PORTLAND Gig Rowing Club are looking to encourage more people to try rowing and join the growing popularity of this sport.

As part of an initiative across the south-west of England, taster sessions are being run for anyone who is interested.

Whatever your age, fitness or ability, the sport of Cornish pilot gig rowing has something for everyone – social rowing, race rowing or just supporting.

A club spokesman said: “Members realise how lucky they are to be associated with this unique sport and they want to share it with you.

“However, be warned, it is highly addictive and great fun."

The island club was formed in 2009, is community-based and a registered charity.

Based at Portland Marina, it offers junior and adult social and competitive rowing and always welcome new members.

Go along and try a free taster row between 1pm and 4pm tom-orrow at Portland Marina, by the Harbour Lights bar and restaurant.

* The five established Dorset Gig Rowing Clubs – Lyme Regis, Bridport, Portland, Weymouth and Swanage – have been meeting to plan the first Schools Championship for Year Nine pupils. Each club has committed to make a link with one or two schools close to them and recruit at least one crew of juniors.

The crews will undertake a six session ‘Learn to Row’ course culminating in a championship regatta.

The championship will be held on the afternoon of Friday, July 11.

This is a pilot project and is being supported by British Rowing and the County Sport Partnership, ‘Active Dorset’.

Weymouth Rowing Club has formed links with All Saints School, Wyke Regis and Thomas Hardye School, Dorchester.