Stratford Boat Club's adaptive squad glad to be back on the River Avon

STRATFORD BC’s adaptive squad were back on the water at the weekend under the Department for Culture, Media and Sport and British Rowing’s coronavirus exemption for disability sport.

Welcoming the squad back onto the River Avon was Mayor of Stratford Cllr Tony Jackson, Mayoress Mandy Jackson and Stratford BC president Paul Stanton.

Head adaptive coach Mark Dewdney said: “The weekend was very special for the adaptive squad, as under the Covid exemption for disability sport, some of the adaptive athletes were able to get back to sport and recreation on the water.

“It took a lot of planning and risk assessments incorporating all the British Rowing Covid advice on sanitising and social distancing, but it was certainly worth it.

“We’re hoping to get more adaptive athletes on to the water in the coming weeks and eventually the junior and adult members of the club.”

Club president Stanton said: "Having the Mayor of Stratford coming down to cheer the adaptive squad back onto the water was a great honour and boost for the squad’s morale.

"Cllr Jackson has three main chosen causes during his tenure as Mayor which are volunteers, people with disabilities and health and wellbeing.

"Tony has been a great supporter of the club and especially the adaptive squad, and he understands the importance of sport and recreation for the wellbeing and health of the adaptive athletes.”