To be, oar not to be?

The club wishes to purchase a Shetland Yoal and two St Ayles skiffs and the associated equipment, including sea safety and communication equipment and trailers to transport the boats.

The club’s purpose is to establish and grow the sport of rowing in Orkney and to encourage as many people as possible to take part regardless of age or ability.

Gillian Skuse, committee member of the Orkney Rowing Club, said: “This initial cash support from Scottish Sea Farms has been a fantastic boost to us and now we are totally focused on raising the rest of the cash to purchase our new boats. We are hopeful that this generosity will encourage more businesses and locals to help us with our appeal.”

Richard Darbyshire, Regional Production Manager for Scottish Sea Farms, said: “Lots of local people get involved with sea based activities here and the Orkney Rowing Club does a great job in encouraging the community to get active and enjoy the sea. Safety and knowledge on the water is invaluable when living in Orkney and we were delighted to give the club their first boost to the fundraising appeal.”