Hidden Henley

IT has become popular for families to erect a bench in memory of a loved one.

A popular site is alongside the river where a seat provides a resting place for a passing walker who can take a break and admire the view.

The bench in my picture is beside the public footpath near Hambleden Lock and has the inscription: “In proud and loving memory of John, Lord Hunt, resident in Aston 1956-1998.”

However, there is a problem that is unlikely to have been considered at the time the seat was placed there.

As can be seen, the bank is eroding due to the excessive wash from passing boats going too fast, which undercuts the channel sides.

How long until the seat is underwater, I wonder.