ROWERS are celebrating after being awarded up to £10,000 towards mending their landing stage.

Thanks to the grant from Oxford City Council's east area committee and contributions from five Oxford University colleges, the City of Oxford Rowing Club, based in Meadow Lane, Oxford, is now more than halfway to raising the total needed, about £20,500, to repair the unstable platform.

Cracks in the landing stage are making it dangerous to use and were worsened by heavy flooding this year.

Club treasurer Amy Jackson said: "It was absolutely crucial to our whole effort to get this money.

"What we are delighted about is they have really given us fantastic support and we were trying to play our hopes down so it was great news."

To get the remainder of the cash, the club is submitting an application for Lottery funding under the Awards for All scheme and is hoping more colleges may also be able to contribute.

The club also organises an annual competition, the Town Bumps, which is due to take place on Saturday, with proceeds going towards the landing stage.

The rowing race pits 12 to 13 crews of coxed fours against each other in a chase-style competition in each category. More than 40 crews have already signed up.

During the day, which runs from 9.30am to 5.15pm, there will also be a barbecue. Everyone is invited.

Teams from some of the colleges are expected and there are also entrants from Trinity College in Cambridge and Pangbourne College.

Anyone interested in helping with the landing stage can contact project co-ordinator David Fisher on 01865 764465.