GREAT Britain rowing siblings Tom and Emily Ford, former students of The Grange School in Hartford who hail from Holmes Chapel, both won medals in the European Championships in Munich at the weekend, helping their country top the medal table.

Tom’s gold success came in the men’s eight alongside Rory Gibbs, Morgan Bolding, David Bewicke-Copley, Sholto Carnegie, Charlie Elwes, Tom Digby, James Rudkin and cox Harry Brightmore, leading the race from start to finish.

Northwich Guardian: Tom Ford, far left. Picture: Getty Images for British RowingTom Ford, far left. Picture: Getty Images for British Rowing

Northwich Guardian: Tom Ford, second from left. Picture: Getty Images for British RowingTom Ford, second from left. Picture: Getty Images for British Rowing

Emily’s first of two silvers came in the women’s pair alongside Esme Booth and she paid tribute to a new regime.

“We’ve got a new head coach (Andrew Randell, women’s Olympic head coach), and he’s come in and really changed the programme around.

“Initially when we were given it, it was a big shock and you really have to grit your teeth, and get into it. But it seems to be working.

“I’m excited to see what the coming months and years can bring.”

Northwich Guardian: Emily Ford, right, and Esme Booth at the end of their final. Picture: Getty Images for British RowingEmily Ford, right, and Esme Booth at the end of their final. Picture: Getty Images for British Rowing

Northwich Guardian: Emily Ford, left, and Esme Booth at the end of their final. Picture: Getty Images for British RowingEmily Ford, left, and Esme Booth at the end of their final. Picture: Getty Images for British Rowing

Esme added: “It’s been an amazing ride. It’s incredible racing in this pair with Emily, it’s really good fun and we are both enjoying it.”

Emily's second gold came in the women's eight.