Boat stuck on Cromwell Weir

A SINGLE-HANDED narrowboat lost its power and drifted onto Cromwell Lock at the head of the tidal Trent yesterday (Tuesday), recognised as the weir carrying the most water in the country.

Luckily the boom held, and the 69 years old woman was airlifted to safety, with fire engines and a water rescue vehicle in attendance, Alan Tilbury reports.

Force

With so much 'fresh' in the river, water was pouring over the long weir (pictured) with such force, that the rescue boat crew left the rescue of the woman to the helicopter crew.

Though the incident took place at just before 3pm, the force of the water rushing over the weir meant it was nearly two hours before the woman could be rescued by a RAF Sea King helicopter, and then treated by paramedics for shock.