MEMBERS of Bridport Gig Rowing Club welcomed guests from France when members of the twinning association visited West Bay.

Franklin Ward showed them the gig Bucky Doo and gave a talk to the visitors on the history of gig rowing and racing.

Despite rough sea conditions, the gig club’s juniors captain Chris Day coxed two crews in the pouring rain, rowing from the outer to the inner harbour and back.

Seven English and French youngsters from the twinning association were able to have a go at rowing. Club rowing captain Michelle Tiffin organised the sessions along with the twinning associations’ Pierre Freullet.

He said: “It was a shame we could not take them out of the harbour and that the heavens opened, but they all enjoyed their row.

“Hopefully some of the local youngsters might like to come back and have another go with us.”

Anyone interested in having a taster row with Bridport Gig Rowing Club can email rowingteam@bridportgigrowingclub.org.uk or telephone Michelle on 07951 655177.