THIS year’s Tyne Tour raised £870 in aid of the Brain Tumour Charity in memory of chief organiser Lorraine Murray-Glendenning, following her untimely death back in August.

Last weekend’s event was a big one for Lorraine’s husband David, and daughters Anna-Louise (30), and Chloe (27), who were determined to ensure it was business as usual. In previous years, Lorraine spent many hours in the event’s control room, dealing with entries and essential administration.

This time around, Chloe stepped into the breach, with the support of her sister, while other volunteers, including Michael Nelson, Scott Bradley, and Julie Thomson, were all essential in making the weekend a success.

“We had people from as far afield as Scotland and London,” said David, “and there was an increase in the number of people who took part in the races this year. In terms of water conditions, it was near enough to being perfect. It was challenging with rollercoaster waves in some places.”

Chloe said: “I really want to say thank you to everyone who came along and supported the event. We had a raffle which raised £870 for a cause very close to our hearts, and we really want to thank everyone who donated.”

The challenging Tyne Descent Race from Barrasford to Hexham through Warden Gorge, on Saturday, was won by Ben Oakley with a time of 41:58.00. Second was Francis Huntingford (42:13.00), while Nicholas Bennet was third (42:18.00).

First veteran was Scotland’s Jim Wallis (49:27.00). Nicky Cresser won the C1 men, closely followed by Andrew Crowhurst.

The K1 ladies was won by Lydia Oxtoby with a time of 45:31.00. Second was Maggie Dilai in 46:10.00. Hexham Canoe Club member Molly Agar took the challenge on in a heavier plastic boat but still produced a respectable time of 50:42.00.

On Sunday’s stretch from Wark to Barrasford, Nicholas Bennett won the K1 men category with a time of 33:06. Second was Robert Jefferies (34:00), while Freddie Brown (34:51) was third. First veteran was Jamie Christie (35:15). Lydia Oxtoby (37:11) was successful again in the K1 ladies.

Hexham’s Cameron Daly took the challenge in a short general purpose kayak and finished in just under an hour.