SATURDAY saw the return of Warrington Rowing Club’s annual regatta on the River Mersey.

The event proved to be popular as one of the first events of its kind held in the north west since the coronavirus pandemic and the lifting of restrictions on July 19.

Throughout the day, 169 races took place upstream of the 640m course finishing just before the Kingsway Bridge in front of the onlooking crowd gathered on the river banks ready to cheer on their clubs.

The event was so popular that entries were suspended on July 9 – six days before they were due to close.

Some crews travelled from outside the region to compete as Tyne Rowing Club (Newburn, Newcastle), Bradford Amateur Rowing Club (West Yorkshire) and Derwent Rowing Club (Darley Abbey, Derby) all sent boats.

Crews from all categories took to the water in both the sweep and sculling races including all junior categories from J13-J18, novices, seniors and masters rowers.

The event brought back the community feel within the sport with everyone pulling together to make sure that the event was run successfully, especially with the new addition of a hospitality tent adding a new spectator experience.

Overall, the day was a huge success with plenty of medals and tankards won by the various athletes representing their home clubs.