The Teddington RNLI today urged youngsters not to jump from the footbridge into the river.

With record temperatures and lockdown restrictions lifted the area around the footbridge has been packed with sunbathers and groups of youngsters in recent days.

As reported by Teddington Nub News yesterday, the police had to be called in to disperse people on Teddington 'beach' as social distancing regulations were clearly being breached.

The local branch of the RNLI issued a fresh warning today calling for people to be very careful when around the river.

In a tweet they said:"Around the UK, many are putting themselves at huge risk by tombstoning.

"At Teddington recently, we've seen dozens of young people doing this at the Lock footbridge.

"You risk serious spinal and other injury; cold water shock on entry can kill in seconds. Please respect the water."

Tombstoning is the practice of jumping vertically from a high point into a body of water. While the activity may seem fun it is considered dangerous and could lead to injury, especially because of hidden debris in the river.

The advice comes after the shocking death of a man found in the river at Cookham in Berkshire.

See Teddington Nub News photo-special from yesterday