Exmouth’s Cornish Pilot Gig Rowing Club, led by founder Ben Atkinson, has marked its 10th anniversary.

The club had planned a series of fun intra-club races on Exmouth Beach, which were ultimately cancelled due to bad weather.

Instead, the club hosted a private celebration under cover at the Harbour View Café.

Mr Atkinson formed the club in 2014 with the support of his wife, Carrie, and has since expressed his pride and satisfaction at the close-knit community the club has fostered.

He said: "So many friendships have been formed between people who would never otherwise have met.

“Huge numbers of people have contributed to the growth of this club – be it coxes, committee members, bo’suns, and members turning up to row, it’s been a real team effort."

Despite his absence, club chairman, Jeff Nicholls sent a video message thanking members for their support.

He also highlighted the bright future ahead of the club with expansion plans in the pipeline.

Mr Nicholls's address was followed by congratulatory messages from fellow Gig clubs across the South West.

Since the easing of Covid restrictions, the club has noted a significant increase in membership numbers.

Last May, Members clinched their best-ever set of results at the World Pilot Gig Championships on the Isles of Scilly.

The club offers year-round social and competitive rowing, and members can frequently be spotted rowing the distinctive orange boats along Exmouth's seafront.

Despite the unwelcome surprise from the weather, the anniversary celebration was a great success, highlighting the spirit and camaraderie of the rowing club community.