MINEHEAD Sailing and Watersports Club has been awarded a grant of £7,300 to buy a new rowing boat.

The club currently owns two wooden sea rowing boats, which were bought second hand about six years ago.

They are over 25 years old now and are approaching the end of their useful life.

The grant will buy a new Celtic Longboat, which is made of fibreglass.

Many sporting activities are aimed at younger people and are competitive, but the club also welcomes rowers of all ages and offer a way to keep fit in a social rather than competitive environment.

Club Commodore Stephen Worley said, " We are delighted about the grant which ensures that rowing will be able to continue in Minehead as our current boats are becoming more and more difficult to maintain.

"Our rowing programme continues throughout the year, so if you would like to try rowing as a way of working off the extra pounds gained over Christmas, please contact me for dates and times of rowing outings."

Call 01643 702074 or email s.a.worley@btinternet.com.