THE vessel that will represent Herefordshire during a river Thames pageant to mark the Queen's Diamond Jubilee this summer is nearing completion.

The Wye Trow is currently being constructed at Gloucester Docks and was inspected by The Lord Lieutenant of Herefordshire, Lady Darnley, who will be on board during the June 3 event.

“This is very exciting, in particular being able to see the shape and scale of the trow for the first time is very special,” said Lady Darnley.

“June 3 is going to be a unique day and I’ll be proud to represent Herefordshire aboard a watercraft which genuinely represents this county.”

The craft's skeleton is now complete and work to prepare the side planking is underway.

Organisers behind the project are now on the lookout for volunteers to act as oarsmen for the event.

Trials and crew training begin in April.

To volunteer, contact Jeremy Picton-Turbervill at Coughton House, Coughton, Ross-on-Wye HR9 5SF or jeremypt@hotmail.com.