The Wallingford rowing club facing “Goliath” independent schools

The coach of a community rowing club has said raising enough funds for a new boat would make a “massive difference” for its young members.

Wallingford Rowing Club has mostly state school rowers and is largely run by volunteers, with independent school Radley College among its regular opponents.

Sport England have offered a grant of £8,000 towards the cost of a new boat, worth £16,000.

But to access the funding, the club must raise the remaining £8,000 themselves and have until 10 July to do so.

The club was formed in 1947 and runs a junior section, as well as senior men’s and women’s squads.

Its clubhouse is a Grade II-listed former brewery in Wallingford, on the banks of the River Thames.

More than 90% of its 147 junior members attend state schools, most of them at local secondary Wallingford School.

Speaking to BBC Radio Oxford’s Adam Ball, Katie Greves, a director and Olympic silver medallist, said the club frequently had to borrow boats and equipment from other clubs and schools.

“Hinksey Sculling School is lending us a boat this weekend… and Radley College lent us a couple of riggers for a boat.

“That’s the difference between a state school club and a private school club. We don’t have the resources, we don’t have the number of coaches.

“[But] we’ve given [the children] purpose and independence. As a parent and coach, I think that’s the most important thing we can give our young people”.

Junior rower Daisy Coleman, 17, said the club was a tight-knit community.

“Everyone plays a big role and everyone is constantly trying to fundraise. I’ve met some of my best friends here… it’s a great community atmosphere”.

The club have until 10 July to reach their fundraising target.

“Above and beyond anything else, [rowing] teaches you be persistent,” said Ms Greves.

That quality could serve the club well in their pursuit of their new boat.