Bridport Round Table are the latest local organisation to show their support of Bridport Gig Rowing Club, in a very practical way. Friday evening saw a great turn out from both RT and BGRC members who showed up on the Slipway in West Bay to watch the handing over of a generous donation of essential kit for the club.
RT members decided to purchase £500 worth of equipment for the fledgling rowing club, which came in the form of 8 life-jackets and a waterproof VHF radio.
A spokesperson for BGRC explained,
"Until now, we have been relying on the use of borrowed life jackets and radios because they don't come cheap. The radio is essential for obvious reasons, as are the life jackets. Many people are surprised when we explain that it is not compulsory to wear a life-jacket in the gig – most rowers prefer not to wear them because they can get in the way of the oar… however, non-swimmers and under 16s must wear them so we need to have a full set available in the gig at all times…we are incredibly grateful to BRT for this donation, and we hope they'll come out for a thank you row one day when the weather is a little better!"
Force 4 seas on Friday evening meant that Round Table members had to forego their chance to have a row in BGRC's training gig, ''Bucky-Doo''. Instead, everyone mustered on the Slipway to watch while RT Chair, Alun Horniblow, presented BGRC Sec, Elizabeth Day, with the goods.
BGRC have fast become possibly the largest new sporting organisation in Bridport this year. With a current membership of over 70 people, and more joining by the day, the club is now keen to raise the remaining funds it will need to purchase a second boat – a wooden racing gig – and then a shed to house it in.
Financial support in the form of grants and sponsorship from WDDC, Bridport Town Council, Palmers Brewery and Sport England got the club afloat in the early stages. The Club are now in need of at least a further £20,000 to continue with their plan, which will lead to members getting further afield next season when they hope to take part in Regattas around the region and ultimately go to the Annual World Pilot Gig Championships, held on the Isles of Scilly every May.
The Club would like to appeal to any local organisations or benefactors who feel they could offer some financial support and help BGRC achieve their goal in becoming an inclusive and progressive community sporting organisation.
The Club are also welcoming invitations from any community groups or organisations who would like a presentation.
To find out more, contact BGRC via the website www.bridporgigowingclub.org.uk .
