Hereford City Regatta has attracted a record number of competitors for the annual event, staged at Wyeside this Monday.

The regatta, sponsored by Euro Car Mercedes Benz, will see over 1,500 rowers from 46 clubs descend on the city to compete in 42 events which provide 230 races.

The main attractions will be the West of England Challenge Vase for men's elite coxed fours, sponsored by John Miles Butchers of Ledbury, and the Mercedes Benz Sprint for men's and women's elite eights.

Hereford front the local interest with 23 crews in 19 events, while Ross RC and Hereford Cathedral School are also represented.

Top clubs, including Thames and Leander, will also be in attendance with crews from as far afield as Belfast, Torquay and Nithsdale in Scotland.

Regatta secretary David Watkins said: "We are really pleased with the quality and quantity of entries this year.

"Without the generous support of our sponsors we would not be able to hold one of the best provincial regattas in the country."

The event runs from 9am-6.30pm and there will be added attraction of the Riverside Fete at Wyeside.