The group, which has a cross-party membership from Britain's Houses of Parliament and House of Lords, has a remit to "support the sport of rowing both within Parliament and outside", and meets regularly.

As with all parliamentary groups, no public funding is available so members are often reliant on supporters to enable activities.

"We are pleased to support the Parliamentary Rowing Group, and look forward to working closely with members as they seek to support the sport at all levels," said Andy Parkinson, chief executive of British Rowing.

"British Rowing works hard to promote opportunities for all to get involved in rowing but some challenges remain. 

"I hope our support will enable the group to provide a strong voice for rowing in Westminster, Whitehall and beyond."

Rowing has been one of Britain's most successful sports at the Olympic Games during recent editions, with the country topping the medal table at the Beijing 2008, London 2012 and Rio 2016 regattas.

In Rio, Britain won three gold medals in a total haul of five, with the men's coxless four and men's eight both topping the rostrum.

Helen Glover and Heather Stanning also defended their women's coxless pair title.

Germany and New Zealand were the next best countries, with both winning two golds and a silver each.