Richmond Council and the Emergency Services have asked residents not to jump into the Thames from Teddington footbridge.

The advice comes after Nub News brought you exclusive pictures of people jumping off the bridge and turning the riverside into a beach.

Police had to move in to disperse the crowds and you can read more about it HERE

Councillor Gareth Roberts, Leader of the Council, said:

"If you have children or young adults living with you then please talk to them about the dangers of jumping in the river. You have the drug and sex talk – this is just as important.

"Some parts of the Thames are very deep and bodies of water stay cold whatever the weather. It is very easy to get into trouble and drown.

"Please talk to your children and tell them not to be tempted to cool off during the warm weather, it is extremely dangerous and they should avoid it at all costs.

"Also, actions like this put huge pressure on the emergency services who are extremely stretched already due to the Covid-19 pandemic."

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Chief Inspector Hackett-Peacock, from Richmond Police, said:

"In addition to water safety, we are also asking for people to think twice before spending the day by the river.

We do not tolerate anti-social behaviour and will enforce a dispersal zone if proportionate and necessary. Therefore, please be sensible. Don't enter the water and be respectful of others."

John Snelgrove, from London Fire Brigade, added:

"There is the risk of cold water shock, which can cause your body to go into shock no matter how fit you are. It causes panic, anxiety, disorientation and loss of muscular control, which cause you to gasp for air and as a result, inhale water.

"We would also urge people never to drink alcohol and then go swimming, or attempt to jump into water. You should avoid walking or running near water on your own or late at night as it's easier than you think to slip and fall in.

"We're not trying to scaremonger or spoil people's enjoyment of the summer – but there is a very real risk when it comes to London's canals, waterways and The Thames."

It also important that social distancing rules are maintained so the spread of the virus continues to slow down.

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