Fines issued to unregistered vessels on Thames

Tens of thousands of pounds in fines have been handed out to boat owners on the River Thames who failed to register their vessels, as the Environment Agency's (EA) crackdown continues into December.

A further 26 boat owners were said to have ignored warnings and were given the penalties at Staines Magistrates Court.

The action follows previous enforcement measures in autumn when another 14 owners were fined, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

It brings the total number of people issued with fines following spot checks at Penton Hook Marina, near Staines, up to 40.

Other action over the autumn and winter months has led to unregistered boats being taken from the river near Hampton Court and scrapped.

Colin Chiverton, manager at the EA in Surrey, said: "If you have an unregistered boat on the Thames, you should know that our enforcement teams remain out all winter patrolling the river.

"With our ongoing crackdown this Christmas we urge all Thames boaters to ensure they register their vessels ahead of the new year deadline."

Those fined had been given "ample warning", said the EA.

Boat registrations are similar to excise duties for cars and are based on the length and width of the craft.

The actions are part of wider action by the EA along the Thames with several high profile moves to shift illegal boats moored near Hampton Court Palace.

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