SUNDERLAND ADDITION TO RALPHH’S STRONG ROWING PRESENCE

A rowing club with experience of helping other river users in distress has turned to RALPHH to gain its own defibrillator.

Sitting on the south bank of the River Wear, Sunderland Rowing Club is based 15 minutes away from the nearest Accident and Emergency service and is also located in a popular area for those fishing and walking. It was established in 1889 and based in its current clubhouse since 1987. This comprises an indoor gym and boat storage. There is one 8; seven 4’s; three Doubles and 15 singles. Each can row up to 6km in one direction and 15 in the other of tidal water.

The approach to RALPHH regarding help was made by Verity Egglestone, who is the Club’s Safety Officer. She and Junior Coach Sarah Hodge received the defibrillator from the RALPHH Chairman Richard Allen, watched by other members of the friendly group.

In addition to 12 Junior members, Sunderland Rowing Club has some 40 adult members aged between 18-40, with a further mixed sex group of 22 Masters. The Club competes across the country and, at this time of this presentation, was preparing for the Durham Head of the River.

“I am pleased that we have been able to help this club, so strongly based in its local community,” said Richard Allen. “RALPHH is always keen to hear from more rowing clubs where frequently

locations are otherwise often some distance from potentially life-saving equipment.”