Senior rowers in Deal are ecstatic to have won at home for the first time in five years.

Senior coxed fours; Charlie Creed, 26, Will Dennis, 20, James Morgan, 36 and James Morton, 29, beat off tough competition at Deal Regatta on Saturday to win the Jack Twyman trophy for the first time since it was established in 2009.

The trophy is named after a former captain and dedicated member of the club, who died five years ago.

The crew, who train several times a week and have been rowing together for three years, powered to the finish line against Bexhill, who took second place.

Bexhill appealed the decision following an alleged collision at the turn, however the umpire opposed the call.

The men raced in the club’s newest boat ‘Eton mission 56’, donated by Morris Job.

Mr Dennis said: “It’s really great to win our home regatta. It’s by far the highlight of the season.”

Mr Creed added: “It’s about time we won the Jack Twyman. This is for him.”

Other success stories on the day include John Rowarth, 15, who won his novice skulls. Ms Rowarth, who took up skulling this season, won his first race last weekend at Southsea and his second today.

The Castle Community College pupil thanked the senior rowers for their help in training.