Hexham Rowing Club held a naming ceremony for the latest addition to their fleet on Saturday.

Mayor of Hexham, Coun. Barry Pickering, presided over the ceremony.

The boat was bought with financial assistance from Hexham-based wind energy firm AMEC, and the Government's Sportsmatch scheme.

The boat was named Edinbane, after a village on the Isle of Skye where AMEC is planning to build a windfarm.

Coun. Pickering said: "Rowing is important for Hexham. The rowing facilities are located at the gateway to the town and the sight of people of all age groups taking exercise, alone or in teams, on our fabulous river must provide a positive first impression to visitors.

"While we might take the existence of the rowing club for granted, I can assure you that its existence relies on the dedication of the people who volunteer their time and effort to look after the facilities and boats, and to coach club members, as well as the businesses and local councils that have provided financial support to the club over the years.“

A number of AMEC’s 40 Hexham-based staff are members of the rowing club and compete in the annual Hexham Regatta.

AMEC has also supported other good causes in Hexham, including the 2006 Abbey Festival and the annual Hexham in Bloom competition.

Managing director of AMEC's wind energy business David Hodkinson said: "Our team of 40 people based in Hexham is dedicated to the development of windfarms and other renewable energy projects that will make a valuable contribution to the environment, through the generation of clean electricity, and to local communities, through the creation of jobs and the funding of local good causes.”

He pointed out that the proposed Ray wind farn near to Kirkwhelpington was expected to provide an annual community fund in excess of £50,000 per year.

Mr Hodkinson went on: ”We chose the name 'Edinbane' for this four seater boat because it is one of our most challenging windfarm developments, one that has tested out our ability over time to coordinate our efforts as a team to make progress and to overcome setbacks, in exactly the same way successful crews of 'Edinbane' will be tested.

"We enjoy a fantastic location next to the river and are proud to be associated with the Hexham Rowing Club and the good work of its volunteers."