THE annual Ross Regatta has been cancelled for the second time in two years due to the low water levels in the River Wye.

This year’s Ross Regatta has been cancelled on safety grounds

The August Bank Holiday weekend event, which attracts clubs from across the country and dates back to the 1800s, was shelved in 2024 for the same reason.

Prizegiving at one of the early Ross regattas
Prizegiving at one of the early Ross regattas (Ross RC)

And organisers told rowers this weekend: "It is with regret and disappointment that we have to inform you that Ross Regatta 2026 is cancelled.

"This decision has been made due to the exceptionally low water level in the River Wye, and the lack of any significant rainfall predicted over the next two weeks.

Boats launch out at Ross in an early regatta
Boats launch out at Ross in an early regatta. Photo: Ross RC (Ross RC)

"The Regatta Committee has looked into every possibility to hold the regatta in some shape or form, but with the low water level and no significant rainfall forecast, it would be unsafe for us to allow competition on such a small amount of water.

"We appreciate that this is not news you wanted to hear, but cancelling at this stage allows you all to make alternative plans for the August Bank Holiday weekend.

"We will ensure that any entry fees paid are refunded.

“We are sorry to disappoint, and look forward to seeing you on the water for the Ross Regatta, August Bank Holiday weekend, 2027.”

Leisure rowing at Ross took hold in the late 1700s with the start of the Wye Tour, centred on the historic Hope & Anchor pub.

Early regattas became a fixture of Ross’s summer calendar in the 1840s, with the Hereford Journal reporting in June 1842 on spirited racing that drew large crowds to the Prospect and the river banks.

Events included traditional rowing, coracle and tub races, with spectators standing shoulder to shoulder at the Royal Hotel to get a clear view, and the winning boat awarded £3, equivalent to around £450 today.

Brass bands, teetotal tents, and fireworks also featured.

And by the 1860s and early 1870s, the number of regattas and official clubs — Hereford, Worcester, Evesham — grew and a more structured version of the sport emerged.

Ross RC, was founded in 1875, and in the 1880s the August Bank Holiday Regatta became a fixture, with thousands flocking to the riverside.

Posters from 1884 list races for sculling boats, coracles, pairs, canoes and even a “tub tournament” involving jousting.