British champions have emerged from a local rowing club.

Two year-nine pupils from AB Severn Rowing Club have beaten crews from across the UK to become the new British champions at the British Rowing Junior Championships.

The Championships, held at the National Watersports Centre in Nottingham on Friday July 15, welcomed junior crews from across the country for three days of competition.

AB Severn’s Harriet Bray, Hanley Castle High School, and Gracie Jones, Ribston Hall High School, beat 37 other crews to be crowned the women’s Junior 14 double sculling champions.

The pair won their time trial to secure a place in the A final which they went on to win with a three-second lead, an impressive feat for a crew who only took up rowing last year.

Coach Brian Curtis was elated at his students’ achievements.

“This is a truly remarkable result, and it is testament to the organisation, intelligence and dedication that the girls have employed during their training,” he said.

Cotswold Journal: L-R: Harriet Bray, Olivia Hodgson, Gracie Janes at the British Rowing Junior ChampionshipsL-R: Harriet Bray, Olivia Hodgson, Gracie Janes at the British Rowing Junior Championships

Harriet and Gracie were not the only members of the AB Severn to come away with a medal on the day.

Olivia Hodgson, of RGS Worcester, also secured a silver medal in the women’s junior 15 single sculls.  

AB Severn is looking for new members, aged 13-16, and further details can be found at www.absevern.com.