A donation of £12,000 has been made by housebuilder Redrow South Midlands to community groups across the region, including the Falcon Canoe Club and the Bangladeshi Canoe Club in Oxford.

They have received £450 after applying for a joint donation.

The company is currently building new homes at Bloxham Vale, on Bloxham Road, near Banbury.

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Since building started at the development, and as part of its commitment to creating thriving communities, Redrow South Midlands has launched a number of initiatives to support local residents. This includes an annual community fund, where groups can apply for funding for their projects, and also donations to local charities.

The donation to the clubs covered the repair cost of two rare imported wooden Bangladeshi canoes, used by members during summer events, including a popular race on the Thames. The extensive works included the purchase of tools and fibreglass, essential to get the boats back on the river safely.

Peter Travis, President at Falcon Canoe Club and Oxford Bangladeshi Canoe Club coordinator, said: “On behalf of both clubs, we’d like to say how incredibly grateful we are to Redrow South Midlands for this generous donation. The funds allowed our volunteers to complete the necessary repairs to the canoes, ensuring they’ll to be back on the river next summer – we’re looking forward to showcasing their brand-new look to the community!”

Suzanne Irons, sales director at Redrow South Midlands, said: “As members of the Oxfordshire community, we are keen to support local groups that have a big impact on their members.

"Both the Falcon Canoe Club and the Oxford Bangladeshi Canoe Club play an important role within the wider community and are well-known for their appearances during much-loved summer events, including the annual boat race on the Thames.

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“We’re thrilled we were able to help them repair their unique Bangladeshi canoes – we hope their next outing goes swimmingly.”

Bloxham Vale is a picturesque development surrounded by open fields and rural villages. Situated just a few minutes’ drive from Banbury, and with direct trains to London in less than an hour, the superb location offers the benefits of a rural setting with excellent travel links.

The development is also an ideal location for families, with a number of schools and GP surgeries close by, as well as shopping and amenities in nearby Banbury.

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Falcon Boat Club near Donnington Bridge in Oxford is of the oldest rowing clubs in Oxford. Since its foundation in 1869, the club has provided a place for locals to come together, make friendships, learn new skills and keep fit. The club offers rowing, canoeing and kayaking to the residents of Oxford and beyond.