Vertu Pledges Support For Tyne United Rowing Club
A North East rowing club is set to receive a welcome boost after securing the backing of award-winning automotive retailer Vertu in a partnership designed to support the growth of the sport across the region.
Gateshead-based Vertu has become one of the founding backers of a fundraising drive being organised by Tyne United Rowing Club to secure a new boat to be used both in competition, and to help young rowers develop their skills on the water.
Situated on the south side of the Tyne beside Newburn Bridge, Tyne United has a rich rowing heritage dating back to the end of the Second World War, with the club in its current format having been re-established in 2007.
The club works across the local community to promote rowing to all ages and abilities, with a highly successful junior programme feeding into teams for both male and female rowers.
Tyne United operates a number of medal-winning competition teams that take part in competitions across the UK but also caters for those who simply want to row for fun.
A special indoor rowing tank is also available on site for complete novices to sample the sport without even entering the water, while allowing the club to continue with training sessions when poor weather hits.
In order to continue its work with young rowers from across the North East, Tyne United has launched a new fundraising drive to secure £30,000 to purchase a new eight-person boat for use by its junior members; those aged from 13 through to 18.
The new boat will be used by teams competing across the UK but can also be easily converted for use by beginners taking to the water for the first time.
Vertu has become a founding sponsor of the fundraising campaign, with a donation of £2,500 that will move the club closer to securing the funding required to get the new boat on the water.
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, said: “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.”