THE GB rowing team is giving people from West Devon a rare insight into the rigours of selection for 2012 by inviting them to take their own trial on a rowing machine.

At the end of this month the team, including Devon rowers Bill Lucas and Marcus Bateman, is launching 'The Nation on Trial' initiative, sponsored by Siemens, for everyone to get fit in the build up to the GB rowing team senior trials, get on a rowing machine and take their own 2k trial to mark a big year for British sport while also raising money for the The Stroke Association.

Anyone of any ability can register on the website http://www.nationaltrial.org">www.nationaltrial.org and access expert training advice on how to use a rowing machine as well as enjoy messages of encouragement from world champions such as Katherine Grainger, Richard Chambers and 1992 Olympic gold medallist and 2012 hopeful Greg Searle.

Participants can record their times on the website which will show how they compare with friends and workmates as well as the entry standard for the GB selection process. It will also be raising money and awareness for The Stroke Association with participants encouraged to get sponsored to achieve set targets.

Every five minutes, someone in the UK will have a stroke which is the leading cause of severe disability. The Stroke Association provides support for survivors and their families as well as funding vital medical research.  Rowing can help reduce the risks of stroke as part of a healthy lifestyle.  Register at http://www.nationaltrial.org">www.nationaltrial.org