On Sunday, July 17, 1994 thousands of people flocked to Weymouth quayside to witness the arrival of the Tall Ships Race.

It marked the beginning of four days of shows, parades and parties that contributed to what many people still believe was the best event ever held in Weymouth (including the Olympics).

Click into our picture gallery above to see these wonderful images from the Tall Ships Race full-sized.

An estimated 750,000 people flocked to the resort over four days to witness the spectacle of magnificent square-rigged ships in the harbour and bay before they set off on the race to the Mediterranean.

Weymouth marketed itself as the 'Small Port with the Big Welcome' and it didn't disappoint.

There were car rallies, street entertainment, the BBC Radio 2 Roadshow, sea shanty competitions, a torchlit parade, firework display and the BBC Concert Orchestra played a memorable concert on the beach.

Friendships were made as the international crews took part in dozens of on-shore activities and

The Tall Ships Parade, with the magnificent vessels under full sail, on July 20 was a spectacular sight and a fitting end to a wonderful event.