Wednesday, May 13, 2020

The Thames Partially Re-opens


As of today, the Thames is open yet again for recreational activity, subject to restrictions as described in the PLA Notice to Mariners No.9 of 2020, extract above, full text here.

The river has been wonderfully quiet recently, allowing wildlife to flourish:


Though during the lock-down it hasn't been entirely empty of recreational users, as have spotted the odd kayak, rowing boat, canoe or stand-up paddle board out there.

But the policing has been sensitive rather than heavy-handed. Indeed here there seems to be more interest in taking a photo than names and addresses:


Maybe things are turning a corner, for a future where R < 1. Or, as a pirate would say, where Rrrrrr  < 1!

Fingers crossed.