The Thames bridges

THE most comprehensive bridge navigation guide ever written for the Thames, Mariners Guide to Bridges on the Tidal Thames has been published by the Port of London Authority (PLA).

The book, which took a team of river specialists several years to compile, details 29 crossings between Dartford and Richmond.

Advice to boaters

It's packed with photos, diagrams, and charts which record each structure's dimensions. It gives advice to boaters on manoeuvring through or near bridges. And it has separate sections on tides, navigation lights and local 'rules of the road', and is handy indeed for boaters navigating the tideway.

PLA chief harbour master David Snelson explained:

"The Thames through London is one of the most challenging inland waterway passages any mariner is likely to make in the UK—if not Europe. Its bridges, in particular, can be hazardous to the unsuspecting.

"That's why this book is a must read for everyone planning to navigate the tidal Thames, as well as for those who have a wider, more general interest in the river."

The book has been printed on waterproof paper and bound with a wire spine so that it's easier to use, and is priced at £21.50 plus £2 postage and packing. To order, contact: Laura Mitchell, PLA on 01474 562269.