EVESHAM Rowing Club are gearing up for one of the main events in their annual calendar.

The club, which set Olympian Alex Gregory on the path to Olympic gold, will welcome crews from across the country to compete in the annual head races.

They will pit crews against the clock as they tackle longer routes on the River Avon.

At Evesham rowers aged 11 to 18 race along a two-kilometre course from Hampton Ferry while the senior and masters crews can tackle a longer 4km route from the weir further downstream.

In both the finish line is near to the club house next to Crown Meadow.

First up is the junior head time trial on Saturday, October 13, with races from 10am.

Hundreds of spectators and supporters are expected to watch from the river bank and friends, family and club members will rally round to put on a sizeable event.

With over 50 rowers, Evesham’s junior section has had a great season, winning at events in Stratford, Llandaff, Stourport and Ross as well as further afield at the Indoor Rowing Championships and The Ball Cup at Eton Dorney.

Coach Jacob Organ said: “Both coaches and crews are anxious to continue their success this winter.

"The crews train four days a week all year round and in all weathers.

"The determination to succeed pays off when medals are collected at competitions.”

Rowing captain Simon Edwards said: “At events like this we are fortunate to have a huge amount of help from families and friends of the club and the backing of our sponsors.

“The club has had a fantastic season so far and we’re looking forward to seeing a good turnout to support the juniors who work so hard throughout the year.”

For further information about junior and senior learn to row courses and taster days, visit erc.club/join-us/ or email rowing@erc.club.

The Masters of the Avon and Evesham Senior Head is on Saturday, November 24.