Since its opening in 2002, Tower RNLI reached a new milestone on Thursday 15 January 2026; for the first time, its day crew was operated solely by volunteers.
Photo: Ashley, Asher, Storm and Jim. Credit: RNLI/Tower RNLI
Tower RNLI launches with first ever all-volunteer crew
Tower RNLI reached a new milestone on Thursday 15 January 2026; for the first time since its opening in 2002, its day crew was operated solely by volunteers.
The four RNLI stations on the Thames (Teddington, Chiswick, Tower, Gravesend) are fully staffed day and night, with up to four crew to enable a fast response time.
The volunteers began their 12-hour shift at 6:30am and were requested to launch by HM Coastguard later that day.
Station Manager Kevin Maynard said: “It was a proud moment to witness Storm Smith-Suckoo lead the shift as duty Commander - backed up by Ashley Bard as Navigator, along with crew members Jim Allen & Asher Robinson.
“All four are volunteers here at Tower, the first time we have had an all-volunteer crew cover a shift in Central London.”
Credit: ZSL
ZSL report shows continued improvement in Thames health
The latest State of the Thames report from the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) highlights significant progress in the health of the river. Decades of conservation efforts have led to cleaner waters, a resurgence of wildlife, and a stronger ecosystem overall.
Key findings include:
Lower toxic metal concentrations: Levels of copper and zinc in the Thames have dropped substantially since 1990, now at concentrations that are less harmful to aquatic life.
More breathable water: Improvements in dissolved oxygen a critical measure for aquatic ecosystem health reflects better water quality for underwater species.
Plastic pollution shifts: Cotton bud sticks, once a common pollutant along the river, have significantly reduced following the ban.
Wildlife resurgence: Populations of key species, including fish, birds, and invertebrates, are increasing, reflecting a healthier and more balanced river ecosystem.
The report also notes emerging pressures, including rising summer water temperatures, nutrient imbalances, and the ongoing impacts of pollution and climate change. Highlighting the importance of continued efforts and collaboration towards a cleaner Thames.
2025 was a big year for the PLA filming department, managing everything from specialist stunts and global brands to blockbuster premieres. We are pleased to share some of the highlights…
First, a spectacular marketing stunt promoting Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning. Projections lit up landmarks like the BFI IMAX, Tate Modern, and City Hall, and we approved the drone filming for this.
We approved filming for the BBC documentary Lucy Worsley: Victorian Murder Club. The production explored historical crime through a modern lens, using the Thames to help bring Victorian London to life once again, and much of the filming took place on the foreshore. July saw the anticipated E1 London Showrun stunt, with high-performance electric speedboats racing along the Thames. It was a striking and energetic use of the river and gave a glimpse of what future racing events in London could look like.
We approved one of the summer’s biggest marketing moments: The Biggest Goal. Puma transformed Tower Bridge into a giant goal by floating a massive 10.5-metre inflatable football through its iconic structure, with Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers “scoring” the first goal to launch Puma as the new official Premier League ball provider. A truly unforgettable sight on the Thames.
We ended the year in spectacular fashion with the Avatar: Fire and Ash premiere. Working closely with the Harbour Master team, we approved a major activation on the river to mark the occasion. It was a fitting finale to a remarkable year.
Revenues from licensing filming and brand activations help fund partners and projects that benefit the environment and communities of the tidal Thames. Here’s hoping for another fantastic year of filming in 2026!
On Saturday 31 January, The Golden Hinde is hosting a ‘Frost Fair’, a day-to-night celebration inspired by the historic winter fairs once held on the frozen Thames. 2pm to 4pm: Activities for all ages include crafts, Tudor games, dressing up, hands-on object handling, and willow-doodling workshops. Hot chocolate and winter treats will be provided! 8pm to 10pm: The Frost Fair continues with a live folk music performance by Balamuc, delivering energy and atmosphere to the Hold.
The Frost Fair forms part of a wider celebration of The Golden Hinde’s 30th anniversary in Bankside. Entry is free, but booking is recommended.
We are pleased to highlight a free Thames CPD training session for professionals working on or alongside the tidal Thames, organised by the Thames Skills Academy (TSA).
This in‑person session will be delivered in partnership with the RNLI, Marine Police Unit and London Fire Brigade, and will also feature input from PLA representatives on how the Harbour Master team supports safety and emergency response on the river.
Date: Tuesday 17 February 2026
Time: 10:30 am - 1:00 pm
Location: RNLI Tower Lifeboat Station
This free session is a fantastic opportunity to deepen your understanding of Thames emergency services and earn Thames CPD points as part of your ongoing professional development under the Thames CPD Programme.
