Teamwork prevailed among Brooklands College students as they took part in the NatWest community rowing regatta.

Before leaving dry land and stepping into their boats, staff and students from the Prince’s Trust course at the college secured a £500 sponsorship fee from Mundays Solicitors, Cobham, along with some bright pink T-shirts to help them standout on the river.

To prepare for the day, crews enjoyed breakfast at the Holiday Inn, Shepperton, before a talk on the importance of leadership from Stuart Lancaster, England rugby coach, and Neil Chugani, CEO of British Rowing.

Students from the Weybridge and Ashford campuses also put in some time on the rowing machines before grabbing their oars for the race.

The Prince’s Trust staff came finished the third round with flying colours, but were beaten by Weybridge Health Club in the fourth round.

Clare Wye, assistant head of department at Brooklands College said: “It was a fantastic day for everyone involved. Not only was it really enjoyable but it helped crystallise the importance of teamwork, leadership and building confidence - things the Prince’s Trust programme strives to instil in our students to improve their long term career prospects.

“Some of the local businesses involved were so impressed with our students we’ve even had offers of work experience opportunities coming in which is fantastic.”

The regatta was set up to give businesses an opportunity to meet, network and compete in a sporting environment.