A BOXING DAY swim across the Thames in Henley was called off due to the condition of the river.

For the past two years, a group has taken part in the challenge, crossing the river from Red Lion Lawn to Leander Club.

But more prolonged rainfall meant that the Thames is fast-flowing and burst its banks. The Environment Agency said the flow was still too fast for even motorboats to navigate it.

Swim organiser Beatrice Heller, 26, said: “I am really disappointed but it is just too dangerous to risk it.”

Ms Heller, a keen outdoors swimmer, said she hoped the swim could go ahead in the New Year but admitted it was unlikely since the river conditions would probably be unchanged. The river remains high in Shiplake and Wargrave, with water flowing into the floodplain following more rain.

Sonning Bridge was closed and the car park at the Flowing Spring in Henley Road is under water again.

About 14,000 homes in Reading and South Oxfordshire were at risk of a power cut on Boxing Day due to water getting into an electricity sub-station.

Henley, Remenham, Hurley and Medmenham remain on flood alert as river levels continue to rise.

Flooding of roads and low-lying land is likely from Mapledurham to Sonning. Temperatures are set to drop again from Sunday.

For the latest advice, visit riverconditions.environmentagency.gov.uk

Published 27/12/12