Annual Shrewsbury Regatta returns for action-packed weekend - with pictures
It was an action-packed weekend on the water as rowers once again took to the River Severn for the annual Shrewsbury Regatta.
With races beginning every few minutes all day on Saturday and Sunday, there was plenty to see for the hundreds of spectators bathing in the sunshine on the river banks.
The regatta, organised by Pengwern Boat Club, is one of the oldest events in the rowing calendar, having first been held in 1871.
Races took place on the River Severn between English Bridge and the boathouses opposite the Quarry.
Many people brought picnics to enjoy, while others made the most of the bar and food on offer.
Michael Ratcliff, from the organising committee, said: "It was very successful weekend, and we were really lucky with the weather, especially on Sunday. Everyone enjoyed themselves.
"A couple of boats capsised, which is always to be expected, but everything went without a hitch. It is run like a well-oiled machine, we have such a brilliant committee and everyone has their job.
"We had quite a few spectators, people were lining the Quarry bank. I'm sure we sold a few pints.
"There was a dead heat each day which is always exciting, and quite a few very close races. Our own women's team won their race by four feet on Saturday, and lost by two feet on Sunday, so you can't get much closer than that.
"It is always nice when your own side wins, but it is just a bit of fun at the end of the day."
There were races for eights, fours and pairs as well as quad, double and single-sculling boats, and competitors included men, women, juniors and veterans.
The event is an important revenue fundraiser for the club, with the entry fees funding new boats and equipment.
Clubs came from across the midlands and some from even further afield, including a team from Guildford.
Michael added: "It's great to see the regatta is still thriving after all these years. The event has been in the calendar for so long and it's on the same weekend every year. When rowers plan their races at the start of the season, we are very lucky that so many of them decide we are the place to be. We must be doing something right."
