A SQUAD of para-rowers have been given a boost after receiving a £500 donation for The City of Oxford Rowing Club.

The club's adaptive squad was handed the donation from law firm Irwin Mitchell's which is campaigning to increase participation in disability sports.

It said the money will be put towards a specially modified boat which will allow the squad to compete to the highest level in events.

City of Oxford Rowing Club club captain Howard Aiken said: “We firmly believe that rowing is a sport to be enjoyed by everyone and welcome new members.

"Luckily attitudes towards disability sports are changing and are Adaptive Squad is growing in popularity.

"We would like to thank Irwin Mitchell for its kind donation which will go a long way towards our club being able to buy another specially adapted boat."

The grant has been awarded as part of Irwin Mitchell’s Don’t Quit, Do It campaign which promotes the physical and psychological benefits of being involved in disability sports.

James Aiken, of Irwin Mitchell, said: "The City of Oxford Rowing Club’s para-rowing squad are hugely dedicated to their sport and are a great example of the benefits that such activities can have for those with disabilities.

"We are delighted to provide this donation and hope it will prove vital as they continue to develop their work further."