Pembrokeshire Paddlers Canoe Club recently held their annual Pembroke River Race in memory of Roland Perkins.

This was the 21st anniversary of the race and was, as always, well attended by paddlers from Pembrokeshire and West Wales, with 40 paddlers on the water.

A difficult start from Fort Road beach in Pembroke Dock into a head wind was ably dealt with by competitors who then had the wind behind them for the rest of the race along the river to Pembroke Castle.

The race was for juniors aged 11 to 16 in kayaks and for adults in open canoes. All competitors received a medal and certificate.

The emphasis of the race is on fun and enjoyment in a safe but competitive situation. As well as the safety power boats, there were many adults who paddled along as extra safety cover.

At the finish, refreshments were laid on by members of the club and very welcome they were too. A presentation of trophies, medals and prizes on the slipway under the castle rounded the day off nicely.

This year's prize winners were:

1st overall - Sam Cox (Roly Perkins Cup); 2. Luke Jones; 3. and first female - Rebecca MacCallum (Friends from Tarn Trophy).

Youngest competitor - Iowan Thomas (Bethan Thomas Shield).

Best local paddler - Sam Hodgson (Davids-Watson trophy).

Open Canadian - Phil Davies, Owen Jackson, Bob Walker ( Nigel Robinson Trophy).

Thanks go to all the club members who helped out on the day and Pembrokeshire Paddlers would like to thank all those who donated trophies and the following who sponsored the race prizes: Rembrandts Jewellers, Pembrokeshire Outdoors, White Water Consultancy.

Thanks are also due to the crews of the safety boats, Theo Weideman and crew, Tim Davies and crew; also to the Stackpole Centre for the loan of open canoes.