JUBILANT rowers on Portland are celebrating a £2,000 boost that will be used to purchase a set of junior oars.

Borough councillor Paul Kimber, a representative from the Co-Operative Community Fund, presented the cheque together with a plaque and certificate to Portland Gig Rowing Club chairman Simon Walker surrounded by junior rowers. Also present was junior trainer Tony Boyle.

The donation will go towards the purchase of a set of junior oars.

Walker said: “We are very grateful to the Co-Operative Community Fund for this donation as it covers the majority of the cost of a set of new oars suitable for our younger members.

“The juniors have had to row with our adult oars for some time and this donation is a wonderful opportunity to purchase some much-needed new equipment for the junior section of our club.”

Portland Gig Rowing Club, based at Portland Marina, is a community club with an open membership policy with a goal to introduce people of all ages to the sport of rowing from the recreational rower to the more serious competitor.

The club is affiliated to the Cornish Pilot Gig Association, which entitles the club to compete in regattas.

Rowing sessions are held on Saturday and Sunday mornings throughout the year and also evenings during the summer months from Portland Marina.

The club is always fundraising for much-needed equipment and are holding a Family Fun Quiz Evening at the Blues Club, Portland on November 17 from 7.30pm.

It costs £5 per team, of up to six people, and everyone is welcome. Anybody wishing to find out more can go along to Portland Marina, visit the club’s website portlandgigrowingclub.co.uk or, alternatively, email portlandgigrowingclub@yahoo.co.uk