BRX tackle environmental and personal growth …
The weather was kind, the sun was out, and with tea and biscuits provided, it was a perfect day to volunteer for conservation work on the River Lee navigation near Kings Weir, Broxbourne.
Led by the Lee Valley Park Authority (LVPA) a group of volunteers from Broxbourne Rowing Club spent the day working on cutting back overgrown vegetation on the riverbank and hinterland.
Over the last couple of years, the rowing club has worked with both the LVPA and Canals and River Trust to improve the environment for both wildlife and river users. The Lea Valley Park Biodiversity team have obtained funding to adapt and improve a 2nd World War machine gun emplacement into a habitat for roosting bats.
By removing the non-native species and opening up the land to allow the light to seep through it will help local wildlife to flourish and encourage native species back into the area.
The Rowing Club embrace community spirt, and with members ranging from 12 to 80 plus years, they inspire inclusivity. They have recently added a new award called the Community Cup, this recognises the contribution that volunteers make, this can be in the wider environment such as river clearance or supporting new members learning to row.
The Community Cup is awarded to an individual who has contributed significant time and/or effort in volunteering including encouraging and supporting recreational rowing. This includes championing the health and wellbeing benefits of the sport through an inclusive approach.
Chris Moody was presenting with the cup for his many years of running and organising the ‘Learn to Row’ courses at the club and encouraging the new rowers to follow their dreams whether it be as a member of the recreational squad or one of our racing squads.
County Councillor Mark Mills-Bishop recently visited the club for the annual Club Head racing, the event brings all the members together for a morning of fun racing. Mixing up the crews ensures everyone can take part whether they are training to race at Henley or want a light paddle down the river.
Cllr. Mills-Bishop said “This club works as a community, with members across the ages ranges working together to get the best outcomes for all. They look beyond their own club and give back to the community with their volunteering.”
New learn to row courses will be running this spring for both adults and juniors. https://broxbournerowingclub.org/learn-to-row/