SCHOOLCHILDREN from Chester are being given the chance to experience part of the world's oldest regatta - in the form of a cruise up the river alongside the city's Mayor and MP.

Chester Regatta is offering local schoolchildren in years 7 to 11 the opportunity to win a cruise up the River Dee with the Lord Mayor Cllr Sheila Little and the city’s MP, Sam Dixon – on the same day the famous competition takes place in June.

Sponsored by businesses including The Hotel Chester and law firm Aaron & Partners, the competition comes as part of the 290th anniversary of the first recorded Chester Regatta and aims to increase local awareness of the historic race.

Alongside the ‘River Jaunt’ on June 10, up to six winners will receive a gift bag including souvenirs and collectibles marking the Regatta’s significance.

Jan Chillery, Insolvency Partner at Aaron & Partners and Chester Regatta Secretary, said: "We want to spread the word about Chester Regatta as we recognise that many people here have never heard of it, even though 2023 will be its 290th anniversary. We are very proud that it is the oldest regatta in the world.

"There are great opportunities for junior rowing in Chester, and we hope that this competition inspires even more young people to take it up as a sport.

"We encourage everyone to come down to the Meadows to watch the Regatta and enjoy the racing. It’s a perfect place for a June picnic."

To enter the draw, Chester children in years 7 to 11 are asked to submit a piece of writing, between 100 and 250 words. It must refer to Chester Regatta in some way, perhaps its history, local impact or future development.

This special excursion will pick up winners from the Meadows, cruise up the River Dee along the Regatta course, before returning to Meadows Ferry landing stage.

More details and terms of conditions for the competition can be found on the Chester Regatta website www.chesterregatta.org.

To take a part in the competition, please send your written piece to chester.regatta1733@hotmail.com by 5pm on May 31. Queries to Jan Chillery at this same email address.