Added 8/5/2009
Burnt out boat in Old Windsor Lock -
photograph and letter (Mrs G Bolton)
6th May 2009
Lord Smith of Finsbury, Chairman - Environment Agency, Millbank House - 25th , Floor 21-24 Millbank, LONDON SW1P 4XL
OPEN LETTER
Dear Lord Smith
The Old Windsor lockkeeper deserves a medal or most certainly a commendation of some description.
On Saturday he single handedly ensured the safety of the occupants of all 10 boats which were in Old Windsor lock and many walkers passing through when one of the boats exploded into flames.
With smoke billowing to well over 50’ and flames rising to 30’ with a decisive, calm, effective authority and manner he managed to get the family who had 2 young children safely off the boat that had exploded. He also ensured the safety of the occupants of 2 other boats which were close by to the one on fire. All of those boaters were moved from the scene and directed to go to the other side of Old Windsor lock island to ensure their safety.
In addition, crucially, effectively and confidently demonstrating the experience, expertise and professionalism he has, he instructed the occupants of the other 7 boats to leave the lock as quickly as possible and, of course, he contacted the emergency services.
The scene was attended by numerous fire engines, ambulances, police and other emergency vehicles. If the lockkeeper had not been on duty I fear to think what carnage and disaster may have occurred.
I beg the question – Why was Old Windsor Lock unmanned on Easter Sunday? Easter Sunday is probably the busiest day of the year on the River Thames. It is the time when there are 600 canoeists as well as all the boaters going up and down the River Thames for the Devizes to Westminster canoe race and yet Old Windsor Lock was unmanned. I appreciate that in this day of tightened budgets some things have to be cut. Surely not the safety of people? That must be of paramount importance.
The lockkeepers are a dedicated, professional team who demonstrate confidence to the public and in times of emergency cope with many potential disasters. All River Thames locks should be manned during peak times. This must not be taken away. The lockkeepers should be rewarded for the difficult and sometimes dangerous job that they do.
Yours sincerely
Gillie Bolton (Mrs)
