In the most testing conditions for several years with choppy seas and strong winds, up to 25 miles an hour, making every rower work to their limit in the waters around the Isles of Scilly, members of Bude Pilot Gig Club gave their all at the World Pilot Gig Championships this weekend.

Friday evening races from St Angus back to St Mary's harbour saw the ladies' veterans come 33rd — 20 places higher than last year and the men's super veterans finish 16th.

With everybody soaked to the skin and all their kit wet through they dried out in time for the weekend's races.

With more than 2,000 rowers and 150 boats, through a series of heats the teams end up being placed into groups. Setting off in heats of 12 from Nut Rock, Tresco the teams race back to St Mary's Harbour.

Both the ladies' and men's crews had resounding victories in their heats winning group J and group I respectively. Both crossing the line a clear boat length from their nearest competitor.

New to the club and a first time Scilly competitor Becky Parfitt said: "I don't think anybody can know until they come here just how brilliant it is."

For the full report, and a round-up of the area news and sport, see this week's edition of the Post.