Getting off their their - Newquay Rowing Club with their new shirts

A drive to attract more women members to Newquay Rowing Club has been boosted with the presentation of a set of smart new shirts by sponsor Skinners Brewery.

Numbers are on the increase again after several years of decline and the new trend has been reinforced with the formation of a ladies committee.

Together with the re-launch of Newquay's three oldest gigs, there is a general air of renewed optimism and enthusiasm at the club, which was established in 1921 and is the oldest club on the gig rowing circuit.

"The club is very keen to involve more people in its activities and we are very pleased to be able to help them in that aim," says brewery managing director Steve Skinner.

"As a Newquay resident myself, I am well aware of what a huge asset they are to the community - and the backbone for our Skinners Sinners Singers is formed by male members of the club!"

The old gigs Newquay, Dove and Treffry have been extensively renovated over the winter months, thanks to the Heritage Lottery Fund.

"We will be taking part in as many events as we possibly can this summer," says Steve Jones, Ladies A Crew cockswain, "and we are particularly extending a warm welcome to anyone who wants to come along to our novice nights at 6pm every Tuesday."

The Newquay is believed to be the world's oldest traditional rowing boat still in regular use. She was built in 1812 by William Peters of St Mawes.

The Dove was also built by William Peters, in 1820, while the Treffry followed 18 years later. On completion, Peters declared her his finest gig yet. All modern gigs are built to the lines of the Treffry, which was originally constructed for the Treffry company of Newquay.

9:08am Thursday 8th May 2008

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