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Rowing club updates code of conduct after claims

Ethan Gudge
BBC News, Oxford
Shutterstock Leander Club in HenleyShutterstock
Leander Club said it would "take immediate action where necessary" when "issues are raised"

A prestigious rowing club says it has updated its code of conduct after being accused of failing to properly investigate sexual assault and harassment allegations.

Women at the Leander Club, in Henley-on-Thames, walked out over personal safety fears and refused to train with male teammates as a result, an ITV News investigation reported.

Both men accused of sexual assault and harassment denied the allegations.

In a statement to the BBC, Leander's chairman Pete Bridge said athletes were "at the heart of this club" and that a "strict and confidential process" had been followed "to protect those involved".

"We continually review our safeguarding measures and have updated these in line with our ambition to ensure rowing is inclusive and accessible for the next wave of athletes pursuing their dreams of international sporting success," he said.

The club has been dubbed a "medal factory" for its record of supplying rowers at the Olympics and Paralympics over the years.

But the ITV News report revealed disharmony at the club after two of its male athletes were accused of serious sexual assault and harassment

'Strict procedures'

In the first case the club found ''insufficient evidence'' to launch a full disciplinary process, while the second was overturned on appeal. The accused was allowed to return to the club following a short suspension.

This led to female rowers refusing to use the club's gym at the same time as male and protesting by wearing white ribbons on their kit.

In response to the report, the club said: "Leander Club takes seriously all issues relating to the safeguarding of our athletes.

"We have strict procedures in place to carefully examine any formal complaints and regularly review our club disciplinary processes to ensure they are fit for purpose, treating our athletes fairly and with respect.

"In addition to an updated code of conduct, we have partnered with a specialist external provider to ensure of the club know without doubt the standards we expect and the ways to highlight any individual misconduct.

"When issues are raised, we will continue to take immediate action where necessary to protect the welfare of our athletes."

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