Students at a Newport school have had their PE lessons transformed thanks to a ‘game changer’ of a community partnership.
The pupils at Burton Borough School have received a donation of ten Concept 2 C rowing machines thanks to two local councillors – Tim Nelson and Peter Scott.
Elliot Murphy, from Burton Borough’s PE department, said: “Having this kind of equipment is a game-changer. It brings teamwork, resilience, and motivation to our students in a whole new way.”
The funding for the rowing machines has been delivered through the Telford & Wrekin Councillors’ Pride Fund Grant - £5,000 from Cllr Nelson and £500 from Cllr Scott.
Cllr Nelson said: “After visiting other schools with rowing machine facilities, I couldn’t help but think that Burton Borough should have this too.
“To now see these rowing machines being used by the students is just incredible. It’s a dream come true.
“I’m also incredibly grateful to Tom Clark and Rowgear for their time and commitment.
They’re currently servicing around 100 machines every week for individuals and clubs across the country, so we’re very fortunate he found the time to support us.”
Tom – who is a former GB international medallist – said: “When Tim approached me, I knew the plan was ambitious but achievable. We often supply one or two machines to schools but delivering ten at once was something special.
“Rowgear has always been about helping people experience the best of the sport, and it’s been a privilege to support Burton Borough School in creating this opportunity.”
Founded in 2001, Rowgear has built a reputation for excellence in rowing machine and gym equipment sales, refurbishment, and repair, and is trusted by Team GB to keep their machines in peak condition.
Every member of the Rowgear team is a rower themselves, with experience from junior to international level, bringing over five decades of combined expertise to the industry.
Burton Borough principal Caroline Bedford said: “We’re thrilled to have received the rowing machines and would like to say a huge thank you to Cllr Tim Nelson from Newport Town Council and Cllr Peter Scott for their support.
“We’d also like to thank Tom Clark who is the owner and director of Rowgear for his advice and for sharing his knowledge on the most appropriate equipment for our students.”
