Shrewsbury Regatta hailed a success - pictures and video

The Shrewsbury Regatta 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 yesterday and today.

Supporters lined the banks of the river to cheer on the rowers who had travelled to the town from all over the country.

More than 1,000 competitors took part over the two days.

There were races for eights, fours and pairs as well as quad, double and single-sculling boats.

Competitors included men, women, juniors and veterans.

Winners of the events included teams from Shrewsbury School and Stourport Boat Club. The regatta is organised each year by Pengwern Boat Club in Shrewsbury.

Regatta committee member, Michael Ratcliff said: “It was a pity the weather wasn’t better on Saturday.

“It was quite cold and damp, particularly in the morning, but that didn’t put the rowers off. The races went smoothly and according to plan.

“There’s roughly 300 races.

“There’s a race every two minutes.”

“Some of the races are very exciting and closely competitive.

“There were a few boats which capsized on Saturday but everyone was rescued quickly.

“Everyone works extremely hard to put the regatta on. It feels well worthwhile when it is a successful event.

“There was a great atmosphere. We had some causal onlookers. It’s a nice event to watch.”

There was also a bar and barbecue for people to enjoy at the weekend.

The event, which has only ever been cancelled due to war or flooding, is an important revenue fundraiser for the club.

Entry fees for the crews go towards the purchasing of new boats and equipment.

Pengwern Boat Club was founded in 1871.

The current clubhouse was built in 1881.

The club is affiliated to British Rowing, and its home water is on the River Severn.