Lord Nelson began his naval career in Chatham

Chatham Historic Dockyard, where about a quarter of the ships used in Nelson's fleet to defeat the French were built, will play a central role in the events.

Fun days, lectures and naval visits will be held in the Medway Towns, which played a key role in battle plans.

Events manager Bill Fowler said it was important to mark the links to one of Britain's proudest maritime victories.

Lord Nelson began his naval career in Chatham, with his own flagship HMS Victory built at the dockyard.

On Tuesday, plans were unveiled for Trafalgar Night fireworks - on 21 October - on the banks of the River Medway, a maritime festival in August, and special exhibitions and visits to the area by tall ships during the summer.

The events are dedicated to celebrating Medway's links with water and in particular the River Medway's place in history over the past 200 years.