06.06.2005

Successful rescue of Thames rowers

Five female rowers were successfully rescued from the Thames on Saturday (June 4) in the Greenwich Reach area.

The four rowers and their coxswain were out training on the river at about 8.25am when their boat capsized. It is believed this was caused by high winds and a strong flood tide. Although the rowers had made arrangements for a safety boat, this had broken down and was unable to rescue the five.

The Port of London Authority patrol launch ‘Ravensbourne’ arrived quickly on the scene and rescued the five women from the river. The crew of the ‘Ravensbourne’, Bob Bradley and Paul Dixon, helped all the rowers out of the water and into the safety of their patrol launch.

Captain Christopher Mendoza, Port of London Authority Harbourmaster for the Thames in central and east London said:

"The crew of the PLA launch ‘Ravensbourne’ did a fine, professional job during this rescue. Their speedy intervention ensured that all five rowers were plucked from the water without injury."

"Even the most experienced rowers can get into difficulties. If people near the river see someone in difficulty, phone 999 and ask for the Coastguard."

Contact: Martin Garside, Port of London Authority. Tel: 020 7743 7915.

Note to Editors:

The Port of London Authority is responsible for safety on 150km (95 miles) of the tidal Thames from the sea to Teddington.