COTEHELE QUAY GIG CLUB is to take part in a celebration for the Queen's Diamond Jubilee, which will see thousands of boats take to the Thames.

The Cream Of Cornwall will join the Thames Diamond Jubilee pageant on June 3, for what is expected to be the largest flotilla in modern times.

Rowing boats, working boats and pleasure vessels will be dressed with streamers and Union Jacks, stretching for an estimated 12.5 miles.

Gig captain Jeremy Lawrence said: "This is such an exciting opportunity for the club to take part in a once-in-a-lifetime event and it is a fantastic boat to be representing Cornwall.

"We have had so many club members wanting to take part that we are going to have to draw names out of a hat but hope to have a crew that will reflect the diversity of the club."

Sponsored by Rodda's Creamery, The Cream Of Cornwall will be rowed along the Thames by a mixed crew. Three boats applied for every place.

"We'll certainly have the Cornish flag flying on the day and will celebrate in true Cornish style with a traditional cream tea at the finish line," said Mr Lawrence.

The gig is a six-oared rowing boat built in 2010 by Brian Nobbs of Lifton. Made of Cornish narrow leaf elm, the gig is 32 feet (9.8m) long with a beam of 4ft 10in.

It will take its place in the flotilla alongside the Queen and other members of the Royal Family onboard the Royal Barge, The Spirit of Chartwell.

Anyone interested in gig rowing should e-mail f_macinnes@hotmail.co.uk