ROWING gear was dispensed with in favour of glamorous attire as gold medallist Naomi Riches and Marlow Rowing Club members spent the day at Henley Royal Regatta.

Paralympic champion Riches - who also won gold at this year’s World Cup regatta at Dorney in June - and club President Sir Steve Redgrave attended the event to support to raise the profile of the club's fire fund appeal.

Committee member Jonathan Walne said: "It was a thoroughly enjoyable and memorable day.

"Everybody was thrilled to meet Naomi and Sir Steve, who were both very generous with their time speaking to guests and thanks you to Copas who kindly provided the hospitality tent to make the day possible."

Devinia Hudson, from Copas, said: "We were very pleased that Sir Steve finally had a drink in the bar that we named after him."

The event raised nearly £2,000. Lynne Moran, club press officers said: "The fire fund has now reached £1.8 million and we continue to raise funds to reach our target of £2.2million." The club thanked Mr Walne and Jacqui Napier-Munn.