For most of us boat owners, the winter is a time for taking the boat out of the water, snugging it down and spending hours dreaming of those faraway days in the spring when we can get back to the serious business of having fun on the water.

I do despair sometimes when hearing about the Environment Agency’s plans. The current proposal not to replace resident lock keepers along the non-tidal Thames and to rent out their vacant homes – including those at Chertsey and Sunbury Locks - is a case in point.

We are so lucky in the Herald and News area to be served by so many great facilities on our wonderful river – none more so than Desborough Sailing Club in Shepperton.

A random question on Facebook uncovers a tale of two families and one boat