EVESHAM Rowing and Racquets Club is celebrating a landmark achievement after successfully reaching its £90,000 target to purchase the freehold of its much-loved riverside boathouse on the banks of the River Avon.
Buying the boathouse secures the club’s future for generations to come, and paves the way for vital upgrades to the building and equipment as the club aims to develop a range of new sporting and community assets.
It was less than a year ago that the club launched its campaign to raise the funds needed to secure the leasehold to the clubhouse site, and by the end of November had raised £86,000.
The final push came with the club’s December festive ‘Race to the North Pole for Christmas’ challenge.
This saw members collectively logging kilometres on rowing machines, on the water, and by tracking steps on the tennis and squash courts to cover the 4,000km journey and take the club across the fundraising finish line.
“On behalf of everyone at the club I want to thank the incredible number of people who pledged, donated and worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make this dream a reality,” said club chairman, Simon Edwards.
“This has been an incredible journey and the support we’ve received has been truly humbling.
“The boathouse is more than just a building, it’s the heart of our club and a vital community asset.
“Thank you to everyone who donated, pledged, volunteered or encouraged us along the way. The incredible support demonstrates the strength of support for the club and its historic home on the River Avon.”
In 2026 the club is renewing focus on its squash section to encourage people of all ages to give it a go ahead of it becoming an Olympic sport in 2028.
This will be led by new squash coach, Tom Watkins who was trained by the former world number 33 Chris Ryder and came through the highly respected junior coaching pathway that has helped contribute to the re-emergence of England as a squash superpower.
Rowing club squash coach Tom Watkins. s
Wendy Souness, who heads up the club’s squash section, added: “This is a really exciting time for squash at the club.
“Bringing in a coach of Tom’s calibre shows our commitment to making squash accessible and welcoming for everyone.
“Whether you’re completely new to the sport or returning after a break, we’d love people to come along and give it a go. There are free taster sessions available too.”
Evesham Squash Club runs a Thursday club night, a Monday racketball training night and private or group training. Email [email protected] for more information.
