The 50th running of the Erne Head of the River will take place on Saturday 3rd March over the classic course from above the Killyhevlin straight to the Portora boathouse – four and one-quarter miles.

An excellent entry of 70 crews will provide a fitting tribute to the founder of the race – George Andrews, who attracted four crews to the first event – Trinity, Queen's and two Portora crews.

There will be representatives from all the original crews in attendance and afterwards at a gala dinner in the school.

This event was intended to be a warm-up for the biggest rowing event in the world – the London Head, which attracted crews from Ireland and takes place in mid-March and it has gone from strength to strength through the years and was well supported through the difficult period of the 'Troubles'.

There has only been one occasion when it did not take place and this was due to the Foot and Mouth scare hitting the country but it is now the best head in Ireland and is a tremendous spectacle.

Viewing can take place at the Killyhevlin Hotel at 2.30pm and at the West Bridge at 2.40pm.

Portora have a strong entry and hope to continue on their winning ways.