MEMBERS of Clevedon Pilot Gig Club proudly rowed their vessels into town to mark the start of the 2013 season.

North Somerset Times: Pilot Gigs arriving at the shore.Pilot Gigs arriving at the shore. (Image: Archant)

The group, which was set up in 2009, has recently added a third gig to its collection of six-man racing boats to help accommodate its growing membership.

North Somerset Times: Pilot Gigs arriving at the shore.Pilot Gigs arriving at the shore. (Image: Archant)

The row home saw the three boats, called Watch and Pray, Blackbird and Odessa, rowed to the shore adjacent to Clevedon Pier.

Clevedon Pilot Gig Club has grown rapidly since it was first created and now has almost 100 members.

It is one of the largest clubs in the country and will be taking at least eight crews to the world championships which will take place in the Isles of Scilly from May 3-6.

The club will also be competing in regattas throughout the season, including at Lyme Regis, Newquay, Ilfracombe and Appledore.