£1,195 costs for speeding boater
THERE is one waterway where boaters really must not speed—and that's the Thames.
Early this week one boater who decided to 'put his foot down' on the river landed himself in court, and received costs of a total of £1,195 for his action, Alan Tilbury tells us.
Contacted the Environment Agency
It was on the reach at Penton Hook where Martin O'Boyle decided to ignore damage he could cause, and opened up the engine of his power boat, but such was his excessive speed that concerned onlookers felt obliged to contact the Environment Agency, that took action.
He was ordered by Staines Magistrates Court to pay a total of £1,195 for navigating his boat without due care, and at excessive speed, charges to which he pleaded guilty.
Damage to boats
The court was told that Martin O'Boyle's boat's speed caused excessive wash, destroying a water-bird's nest filled with eggs as well as damage to other boats.
He was fined £650 for navigating the boat without due care and £450 for speeding. Added were prosecution costs of £80 and a victim surcharge of £15.
Not tolerated
Andrew Graham, Waterways Operation Manager for the Environment Agency, warned:
"Driving without due caution is not tolerated on the Thames, and I am pleased that this incident was reported by members of the public. The witnesses were extremely concerned for their moored boats, the wildlife nesting nearby and the people on smaller crafts, who could have been in danger from the wash from the speeding vessel."
Under the Thames Navigational and Licensing General Byelaws 1993, boats must navigate their vessels at all times at a safe speed and with due care and caution to prevent avoidable damage or unreasonable disturbance to persons, other vessels or moorings or the river banks and in such a manner as to show reasonable consideration for all persons and property in, upon or about the Thames or the banks or towpaths thereof or any land of the Authority.
There is now doubt as to whether the culprit will be allowed a further licence.