Blyth Rowing Club

Blyth Rowing Club was a professional rowing club, based in South Harbour, Blyth, Northumberland. They changed their status to amateur during the 1950/60s. Significant members were the Pearson Brothers Tom, Doug and Jimmy, who carried on rowing well into their eighties, eventually moving to Cambois Rowing Club when Blyth folded. Tom and Doug were absolute gentlemen and great supporters of rowing generally and very close; in fact they passed away within minutes of each other in Wansbeck Hospital; together in life and together in death.

14th November 1899
The Shields Daily News reported:
In the presence of a large gathering of patrons, the new house acquired by the Blyth Rowing Club, was opened Saturday afternoon by Richard Nicholson, President of the club, who, in the course of a pithy speech, mentioned the fact that already a membership of over 50 was on the books. The house, he said, boasted exceptional facilities and accommodation for carrying out the intentions of the club. There was room for a large number of boats. At present the club was in possession of four, two of which had been christened the "Isaac Tucker" and "Dr Newstead" respectively. After the ceremony a boat race was rowed between two members of the club, Messrs Anty Scott, of Blyth, and Robert Thompson, of North Seaton. The course was over quarter of a mile for £10. The river was scarcely as smooth as the proverbial duckpond, a fresh breeze causing a nasty ripple. The North Seaton man got away fast at the commencement, and held the lead for the first hundred yards, but Scott then got on terms, and eventually won a good race by two clear lengths. Sunday morning, another member of the club, Mr Luke Rhodes, whilst taking practice in one of the club boats, came into collision with a jetty, and upset his craft. He managed to get hold of one of the cross beams of the jetty, and held on till he was rescued from the shore.

9th December 1905
The Morpeth Herald reported on a sturggling finanical situation:
Mr. Thomas Lee, Secretary of the Blyth Rowing Club, at the meeting on Friday evening, presented the annual balance sheet, which showed an income of £11 3s, and expenditure of £6 16s 4d, leaving a balance of 6s Bd. After discharging loans this balance will be exhausted.

10th May 1937
The Blyth News reported:
A club handicap is to be held by Blyth Rowing Club in the South Harbour on Coronation Day, the start being timed for 2.30. Ample facilities exist for spectators wishing to enjoy an afternoon of interesting aquatic sport.