A rowing gig named 'Victory' was triumphantly welcomed by Maldon Gig Rowing Club at The Hythe yesterday afternoon (Friday, 13 August).

The new fibreglass gig will be a boost to activities at the growing club, which is based is based at Hythe Quay and was formed in 2013.

The club already had two gigs - 'Record Reign' and 'Ready', both cold moulded 24ft plywood gigs built at Brightlingsea at Harker's Yard by the Pioneer Sailing Trust.

The club's Membership Secretary, Suzanne Wood, told Maldon Nub News: "They are both great gigs but they limit our ability to go out rowing as they require a crew of five, being four rowers and a cox.

"Since returning to rowing from Easter 2021 there has been increased local interest in coastal rowing and the aim of the club is to encourage more people to try gig rowing for leisure, adventure and for racing, as we take part in Harker's Yard Winter Series of Racing.

"The decision was made by the club in May to buy a third gig, but this time made of fibreglass which can be left in the water for easy access to club member crews regardless of age, gender, strength and fitness.

Club funds paid for the new fibreglass gig, but a grant application to Active Essex's Find Your Active fund was successful and £2,900 was paid to cover the cost of all the ancillary equipment to kit out the gig and subsidise membership fee for the first 20 newcomers.

A club crew rowed 'Victory' from Maylandsea Marina to The Hythe, where its arrival was enthusiastically received by club members and friends.

Prospective members can find out if they enjoy gig rowing with a trial session with the club before deciding to join. For more information on Maldon Gig Rowing Club you can visit their Facebook page using the link here.