WEST Devon's Tamar and Tavy Gig Club have really pushed the boat out this time with the launch of their new vessel on Saturday at Bere Ferrers Quay. Members of the club, along with the Mayor of Tavistock Anne Johnson, were at the quay for the ceremony, along with other dignitaries, sponsors and supporters. The Rev Nick Law, the rector of Bere Ferrers, was on hand to give the £25,000 vessel his blessing. After a widespread consultation process involving all the club's members, from its youngest juniors to the most senior veterans, the club has decided to name the boat Tamar. The vessel has been built of elm based on a traditional template used across the gig world, by Launceston craftsman and shipwright Brian Nobbs. He built the club's first gig, just in time for members to enter the world pilot gig championships in 2004, naming it in honour of his wife Ginette. To come up with the £25,000 needed for the new boat, a road trailer, two sets of paddles and a boat cover, the club drew on support nurtured from local businesses and communities, plus grant funding. Tricia Stewart, a spokesperson for the Tamar and Tavy Gig Club, said: 'Support has flowed in from all quarters, thanks to the club's ethos of welcoming all comers, no matter how far from the club's home on the Bere peninsula, no matter what their athletic ability or rowing experience, backing has come from all quarters. 'Recently retired chairman Bob Turner left no stone unturned, as he and his cohorts appealed to generous donors from local businesses, parish councils, the Tamar Valley AONB Sustainable Development Scheme, to the National Lottery's Awards for All scheme.' Now embarking on its fifth season, the club is hoping to swell the ranks. New rowers are extremely welcome. For more information go the website http://www.tntgc.org.uk">www.tntgc.org.uk or contact club chairman Bill Stacey Norris on 07886945731.
