Two sports journalists from the Evening Express in Aberdeen have vowed to return to the water next year after losing out in a media challenge boat race.

Sports editor Charlie Allan, (46), and Dons writer Andrew Moir, (26), took on rivals John McRuvie and Andy Dewar from local radio station Northsound 2, in a challenge match on the city's River Dee.

But after some unusual tactics by their competitors, Charlie and Andrew hit the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge and were left stranded as the Northsound 2 crew rowed to glory.

Charlie told HoldtheFrontPage: "The other team went across our path and we were told to stop rowing. We hit the bridge and couldn't get away."

The pair did eventually finish the 200-metre race, from beneath the Wellington Suspension Bridge to the Aberdeen Boat Club, somewhat behind their rivals.

Charlie said: "The race was meant to last two minutes, but I think it took us about half an hour.

"I imagine they had gone home to have their tea by the time we had finished.

"It was getting dark but we weren't panicking, we knew there was land there somewhere!

"The bridge wasn't hurt - only our pride! We'll be back next year."