River Thames Society Annual Award
The RTS Annual Trophy is awarded to the individual or group of individuals, organisation or corporate body which in the opinion of the Society has made the most significant contribution to the well-being of the River Thames. Since 1994 the Society has been pleased to recognise a very wide range of inspirational work which has benefitted the river, including environmental projects, conservation of the heritage of the river, educational programmes and the improvement of access to the river for people with disabilities.
Recommendations for this award are invited from any individual, company or organisation, whether or not they are directly connected with the river. The type of achievement the Society wishes to recognise might include those that add to the beauty of the river such as new architecture or bankside developments; commercial developments which increase river usage; or projects which enable people of all ages to learn more about the river and its history thereby ensuring its future stewardship.
In addition, the Durant Cup is awarded annually to the River Thames Society member who has made the most significant individual contribution to the life and ethos of the River Thames.
Nominations should be received by the Administrator no later than 31st January each year. Following a Selection Panel meeting, the winner will be notified in advance and a presentation will be made at the Society’s AGM during April.
If you wish to make a nomination or would like further details, please contact the Administrator.
AWARD WINNERS 2010
The 2010 awards were presented at the AGM on 9th April 2011.
The RTS Shield was awarded to the RNLI Thames Stations in recognition of the massive improvement in river safety following their establishment in 2002. The four stations - Gravesend, Tower, Chiswick and Teddington - are co-ordinated by the Maritime & Coastguard Agency from the PLA Operations Room at the Thames Barrier. Since opening these stations have been the busiest throughout the UK and Ireland and, for example, in 2010 Tower had over 3,000 'shouts' with 201 lives saved.
The River Thames Society was delighted to recognise the professionalism and dedication of the crews and support staff who have made such a valuable contribution to the life of the tidal river. The RTS Shield and cerificate were presented by Vice President Michael Shefras to David Clarke, RNLI Publicity Officer and ex-serving lifeboatman. David then spoke briefly about the daily work of the RNLI on the Thames.
The Durant Cup was awarded to RTS member, Roger Weston, in recognition of his personal contribution to the wellbeing of the Thames. Roger has a lifelong association with the river and has served as Chairman of the West London River Group - now representing that body on the Mayor of London's Waterways Commission - and was also the first Chair of the Thames Strategy Steering Committee (Kew - Chelsea). He has always maintained a clear vision for the Thames and has shared this sensitively and enthusiastically with his colleagues and with other agencies. His leadership has had a major impact on the maintenance of the tideway as a navigable waterway and on the preservation and enhancement of London's riverside environment.
A Durant Cup Runner-Up award was made to RTS member Donald Davies in recognition of his work as branch Planning Officer. Donald's careful examination of planning applications from Putney to Tilbury has helped to ensure a high standard of sympathetic riverside development.