OVER 250 rowers will be descending on the River Wye this weekend as Hereford Rowing Club hold its annual regatta.

Hereford have been running a regatta on the river for 160 years and are proud of its history, heritage and community engagement.

There will be more than 20 visiting clubs from all over the West Midlands, Wales and the South West ranging as far afield as Nottingham, Bristol and Chester.

There are over 250 rowers racing on each day in various boats ranging from single sculls to coxed eights.

Half of the entries are juniors - local school children taking time off their studies or having a break from exams.

Not to be outdone by the youngsters there are rowers competing who are in their 70' and 80's.

Hereford Rowing club has also built links with the city's blind college, and have invited three visually impaired rowers to compete at the regatta in supported doubles.

Their race will take place on Sunday and support from the river bank will be appreciated.

Hereford Rowing Club (HRC) have been working hard to ensure a safe environment for all the rowers, on and off the river.

As part of the work the steps have been renovated and the river between the bridges has been cleared of debris (including bicycles and shopping trolleys).

HRC are pleased that they are supported by so many great clubs, particularly as there are two other National Mulit-lane events happening on the same weekend at Dorney Lake and Peterborough.

These events always attract the big clubs and the universities, however Swansea and Cardiff Universities are sending crews to Hereford.

Everyone is welcome to come down to the club, enjoy the racing and commentary and have plenty of fun along the river bank.

There will be refreshments, breakfast, a BBQ, ice creams and much more.

The mayor will be attending on Sunday to provide her support, and to present some of the prizes.

The Hereford Rowing club runs their club and regatta on a voluntary basis, with members dedicated to celebrating sport and the rowing community.

All money raised goes back into helping the club extend its ability to support the local community.