AFTER the cancellation of their regatta in August, Hereford Rowing Club staged a successful fun event with nine teams trying their hand at rowing.

The competition was held in a round robin style event and attracted a large supporting crowd with prizes presented by Hereford's Mayor Councillor Len Tawn.

Many of the teams dressed up and a couple of teams were also raising money for charity, including the Teenage Mutant Ninjette Turtles from the Combat Academy who raised more than £300 for Hereford Open Door Homeless Charity.

All of the teams were beginners who - as part of their entry fee - get 3 hours training on the river before lining up head to head on fun regatta day to vy for the winning titles!

This was the last major event for outgoing club captain Jim Williams who completed a record three years in post, the first person to do since Norman Mathews back in the late 1960s.

The new captain is Hayley Birch, who began rowing as a novice in 2007.

"Hayley is very keen to encourage new rowers and build a healthy competitive squad - please get in touch if you would like to give rowing a try," said club spokeswoman Kay Parker.

"Perhaps you are already a keen athlete and would like to try something new to turn your skill to, or would like to get fitter and stronger and compete in an exhilarating and rewarding sport that anyone can learn on one of our learn to row courses.

The next fun regatta will be on April 26. Contact the club secretary on hrcsecretary@btconnect.com if you would like to be involved, or find out more about the Learn to Row Courses open to all.