Hot weather and holidays can mean disaster for people who like to swim in the Thames a rivers authority leader has warned this week.

Russell Robson, Waterways Operations Team Leader for the Environment Agency, said: “We’d really rather people didn’t do it unless it’s part of an organised and supervised event. Swimming should be confined to swimming pools and lidos.

“And bridge jumping - is the thrill worth the risk of an injury that could change your life forever, or end it? No, of course it’s not. So please, don’t risk it."

Areas in Windsor and Slough are known for attracting bridge jumpers in the hot weather and have seen tragic results over the years.

Mr Robson said: "We expect the River Thames to be a focal point for a lot of people’s leisure time, whether out in a boat, taking a dip, or just hanging out by the riverside. But we are urging parents and guardians to supervise younger children closely in and around water. Teenagers and young adults should be warned of the dangers and to remember some basic safety points when out having fun.

“In an ideal world, no one would get on or in the river alone, so there would be someone around to help if they did get into any difficulties. And anyone out in any kind of boat should wear a lifejacket, just in case."