MDL Marinas’ Penton Hook Marina in Chertsey, Surrey, has teamed up with the local police force to make the River Thames safer for all.
 
Penton Hook Marina has provided police with a five-metre work launch boat, which will be used for monthly river patrols to navigate a stretch of the River Thames, including Penton and Chertsey Locks.
 
These monthly patrols are designed to deter offenders and assist in the investigation of any incidents or offences that do occur along the river. Residents and users of the river will also be offered regular dedicated crime prevention advice and support.
 
Mike Gates, general manager of MDL’s Thames Marinas, said: ‘At Penton Hook Marina we do everything we can to maintain close ties with the local community and we’re very pleased to be able to assist the police in providing a reliable boat for the patrol.

‘At MDL Marinas, the safety and security of our berth holders is of the highest importance and we work hard to explore the ways in which we can constantly be improving this.’

Neighbourhood Sergeant Helen Vaughan said: ‘We try and regularly liaise with all sections of the community and since the removal of the dedicated River Thames policing post two years ago PCSO Michaela Vasilova has been tirelessly exploring options to provide regular patrols along the water.
 
‘We are grateful for the support from Penton Hook Marina that will enable us to have a more visible presence on the river on a regular basis.’