Royal Chester Rowing Club names five new boats

In his welcome to members and guests, club chair Andrew Firman said: “This celebration is really about the people named on the boats, their contribution to the club over many years and their impact on so many others in the sport, all on a voluntary basis.”

Amongst those named were former members, sadly now deceased, Gwyn Evans and Graham Pointer.

Long-standing club coach Chris Jackman attended for the naming of a second boat in his honour, together with Peter Jarvis whose boat was an acknowledgement of his contribution to junior rowing.

Also present was Christine Browne, the widow of John Browne, an active member of the Chester Regatta committee for many years. John was also a strong supporter of the ongoing development of a new club boathouse.

Thanks for the new boats came from a wide range of the club’s membership from Juniors, Seniors and Masters. Included were graduates from the club’s successful Summer Schools for juniors and adult Learn to Row courses, many of whom have joined the club in order to develop their skills and fitness.

Speaking after the event, Andrew Firman added: “We are grateful to all who contributed to the purchase of these boats including a legacy from Graham Pointer’s estate and a grant from ‘Making a Difference Locally’ - having been suggested by local Nisa retailer - Peter Sykes in 2018.

“The club is proud to continue to build its open membership as a charity whose mission is ‘to provide and develop rowing at all levels for residents of Chester and the surrounding area whilst striving to attain excellence in competition, coaching and recreation from good facilities in a safe, supportive, friendly and inclusive environment’."

If you are interested in rowing at Royals, contact the Captain Chloe via the club website, www.royalchester.org. If you are interested in supporting the redevelopment with a Gift Aid boost, email the Treasurer Adam, royalstreasurer@gmail.com.