Brits off to flying start at World Championships

The Men's Coxless Fours increased their unbeaten run to 22 races, with Olympic medallist Steve Williams (above, far right) joining Andy Hodge, Alex Partridge and Peter Reed to win their heat in five minutes 53.45 seconds.

Zac Purchase set the fastest time in the heats of the Lightweight Men's Sculls, and Matthew Wells and Stephen Rowbotham won their heat in the Men's Double Sculls.

Annie Vernon and Anna Bebington also gained a semi-final place, finishing second in the Women's Double Sculls behind the Chinese crew.

Suffering from a cold, British World Cup holder Allan Campbell made a disappointing start in the Men's Singles Sculls, but is hoped to be fit to compete again on Tuesday for a semi-final place.

21 August 2006