Rowing crews from Oxford's New College Boat Club were full of praise after training on Derwentwater last weekend.

A squad of 30 leading rowers and coaches travelled up for a successful four-day pre-race season training camp, supported by Lakeland Rowing Club who provided safety boat support for the crews and coaches.

The training camp started with two of Lakeland Rowing Clubs' juniors providing a full briefing to the visiting squad.

Kim Sunley, from Cockermouth School and Connor Faulder, Keswick School, talked to the NCBC coaches, crews and coxes.

And from the Thursday to Sunday, crews were on the water training from 8.30am to 4pm.

They took full advantage of the mostly calm waters to complete 14 training sessions in their eights and fours racing boats.

The crews were based at the Hawse End Activity Centre and launched their boats from the sheltered waters of Hawse End bay.

A special mention also goes to Ian Turnbull, of Keswick School, who not only loaned the NCBC squad eight rowing machines but also transported them.

NCBC showed their appreciation by making a donation to Lakeland RC, which the club will put towards equipment for their junior section.

The visiting club's president Isobel Gordon said: "New College Boat Club are delighted to be carrying out their winter training camp at Derwentwater Lake in partnership with Lakeland RC.

"The mirror-flat surface and miles of water free from other boats make it the perfect setting for us to get some serious mileage in and perfect our blade-work in preparation for regatta season.

"We can’t thank Lakeland RC enough for the vast support they’ve given us this week and all throughout the organisation of this camp.

"Moreover, the generosity of Keswick School who provided us with eight ergometers has enabled NCBC to complete some well-needed land-training and so we are incredibly thankful to them."