A BIG increase in the number of competitors means Stourport Regatta organisers are hoping for one of the best tournament’s in recent times this weekend.

Thousands of rowers and spectators are set to descend on Stourport Boat Club to experience their biggest event.

The club are expecting a big increase on last year's numbers, with over 600 crews from across the country racing.

Ross Rowing Club are bringing a record number of competitors to the Regatta, with 49 crews in action over Saturday and Sunday.

Clubs from London, including Champions of the Thames, Mortlake Anglian and Alpha BC, Quinton RC and Curlew will also be present.

With the Jack Roberts Plaque up for grabs for the best club over both days, there is set to plenty of oar-some action.

Stourport chairman Fred Caswill said: “The numbers of competitors we’ve got coming is 40 per cent up on last year.

“We’ve worked hard to support other regattas and promote ourselves up and down the country and that is paying off now.

“Ross are sending the biggest number of crews in the history of the regatta and we will also have a lot of clubs from London aiming to take on the local clubs as well.

“It’s going to be two great days of top quality action and everybody is welcome to come along and enjoy it.”

The rowing on both days is between 8.30am and 6.30pm.