Thames: ‘Wartime’ life for stranded sailors

Paul Pilfold said the fire brigade had to rescue him from a boat two weeks ago when the water level rose 0.6m overnight.

The boat drifted along the towpath at Goring Lock, near Reading, putting it at risk of catching on structures underneath or being dragged down by cables.

“I was really, really worried,” he said.

It has since remained stationary, waiting for river conditions to return to yellow – boat users should exercise caution or find a safe place to moor.

Pilfold said the lockkeeper did not charge him for mooring there, as he usually did.

“It’s very reminiscent of war experiences,” he said.

“Everyone is friendly and everyone wants to help you.”