This my final Riverwatch column. After more than seven years and over 300 editions, this wonderful little newspaper is about to close and rather than cling on grimly until the last moment, I’ve decided to bow out gracefully ahead of time.
Recent developments
Little ship left a big impression
I’ve often mentioned the activities of the waterways charity Thames21 in this column but I thought it might be helpful to take a closer look at the organisation’s background.
Residents channelling their own flood plans
I’ve been contacted by an old friend – Doug Myers – with concerns about the proposed River Thames Scheme to reduce flooding risks.
Glorious idea that could put Walton on tourist map
The royal barge Gloriana, presented to the Queen as a gift to mark her Diamond Jubillee by Lord Sterling and others, has been seeking a permanent home ever since she led the river pageant during the jubilee celebrations in 2012.
The Tall Ships – what a great sight at sea level
[dropcap]F[/dropcap]URTHER to my column last week about the Tall Ships arriving in Greenwich and the interest it called, my friend Douglas Dick from Shepperton and a long-term member of Desborough Sailing Club with his wife, Sally, wrote to tell me about his experiences with these beautiful sailing craft. Douglas wrote; “Just over a week ago, […]
Still happily afloat after 300 columns and 7 years
After a short interlude, Mort Smith sails back into our lives with thank-yous to some of the people who have provided inspiration for some many stories during the past seven years.
Could the reservoirs solve our flooding problems?
[dropcap]I’[/dropcap]VE had some interesting reactions to my column outlining the Environment Agency’s River Thames Scheme aimed at safeguarding homeowners and businesses on our stretch of the Thames from future flooding. John Carter from Chertsey said: “I find the the EA flood plans pitiful. Why more than 10 years to complete and why not fully-financed by […]
Flood plans spring a leak
Government ‘rescue’ falls £120m short
Who will toil for Belle?
Firstly, thanks for all the kind messages regarding my impending move to the East Coast. It’s much appreciated and I’m delighted that so many people enjoy Riverwatch – I hope I’ll be able to keep it going.
Barging in on the dredging debate
I’ve had lots of input from readers on the subject of dredging since I mentioned it a couple of weeks or so ago in the context of flood prevention following the recent inundations.