The River Users Group co-ordinated the event.  Oxford’s boaters set off from club houses and marinas across the city to carry out a two hour stint of rubbish and litter clearance. Whilst they cleared up the rubbish and litter in the water and on the banks, shore-parties joined them to work along the Thames towpath and Hinksey Park.

Amongst the boating groups who took part were Osney Marina, Medley Sailing Club, River Thames Society, River Users Group, St Edwards School, Oxford River Cruisers, City Barge Club and Falcon Rowing and Canoe Club.  They took to the water in a variety of vessels – rowing boats, pram dinghies, canoes (kayak and Canadian), and launches. They worked hard but had a lot of fun too – much to the appreciation of passers-by.

Rubbish hauled from the river and its bank included: shopping trolleys, food and drink containers, plastic bags caught in the bushes and even a bread bin and a plastic road barrier.  This rubbish spoils the beauty of our waterways and the pleasure of boaters, walkers and cyclists.  It also contributes to flooding as it blocks the outlets for water to drain away from rivers.