Vertu helps rowing club pull ahead with fundraiser

A North East rowing club is pulling together support for a new boat after securing a funding boost from a regional automotive retailer.

Gateshead-based Vertu has donated £2500 to Tyne United Rowing Club, becoming a founding sponsor of its £30,000 fundraising campaign to purchase a new eight-person boat for junior rowers.

Based on the south bank of the River Tyne near Newburn Bridge, the club provides opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to take part in rowing, from complete beginners to competitive athletes.

Its junior programme supports young rowers aged 13 to 18, with teams competing in events across the UK.

The proposed new boat will be used for competitions and can also be adapted for beginners, helping the club introduce more young people to the sport.

Tyne United, which traces its heritage to the end of the Second World War and was re-established in its current form in 2007, also operates an indoor rowing tank.

The facility allows newcomers to try rowing without entering the river and enables training to continue during poor weather.

Vertu’s contribution marks an early step towards the club’s £30,000 fundraising target.

Alex Shiel, Chair of Tyne United, said: “This boat is a key part of our plans to take the club forward and will give us the tools to attract, engage and develop rowers of all ages and abilities

“The new boat will not only allow our competition crews to continue to race at the highest level, but will also play an important role in helping junior rowers develop their skills as they progress towards our senior teams.

“We are delighted to have the support of Vertu in this new partnership, and look forward to working with them to raise the profile of the club and introduce more people to this fantastic sport.”

Robert Forrester, chief executive of Vertu, added: “There are strong synergies between rowing and Vertu through the shared values that are key to success.

“In the boat, dedication, teamwork and a shared commitment to achieving the best possible results are essential. 

“The same is true in our dealerships, where colleagues work together every day to deliver the highest standards of service for our customers.

“We are pleased to back Tyne United and support the club as it continues the fine work it does for the local rowing community, and look forward to seeing the new boat have a positive impact when it takes to the Tyne.”

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