Hi Fellow Members,

Having had a pretty indifferent summer so far, it would be that we had an exceptionally hot day and evening for our EGM held with kind permission at Walton RC on September 6th.

Thank you all for your attendance at a very useful meeting: firstly, the detailed and informative presentation from Steve Collins, and secondly, the group discussion on the EA’s draft proposals for procedures to remove unregistered vessels.

Having several local councillors and representatives from our local MP did demonstrate how we all feel and are impacted in one way or another by the woeful lack of action by the EA on this matter. Please remember the figure of at least 116 (counted in an audit in the last few weeks) unauthorised moored boats on the Molesey and Walton Reaches. The vast majority of them are unlicensed also.

As promised, I sent to the EA our unanimously voted-on resolution condemning their proposals as bureaucratic and unworkable and as you requested cited a couple of examples; one being that if their new procedures were followed the Trotman boats would never leave Hurst Park! I am sorry I was unable to capture the document but I did stick to the resolution wording as shown to you.

On a separate point, RUG8 have been asked if we would give our name in support to the “Save Ham Lands & River” campaign against Thames Water’s plans for the discharge of “treated” sewage – 75 million litres a day – into the Thames at Teddington Weir. As you know John Adams our RUG8 rep has been keeping a close eye on this and also keeping us updated. 

I personally do not think the request for support strays us from our objectives and original purpose I am mindful RUG8 could and should support this campaign, but would welcome your views.

Have a pleasant and safe autumn on the river.

Regards, 
Jonty Steel
chairman@thamesrug8.org.uk