LEISURE users of the River Thames in Thurrock are being invited to participate in a survey being undertaken by the Port of London Authority (PLA) to look at how the river can be further developed for sports and recreational activities.

And those who take part could even win £250.

The survey follows in the wake of a recent published plan by the Grays Town Board which sees recreation on the river as integral to regenerating the town.

Thurrock Nub News reported on their hopes and ambitions last month.

Now the PLA has linked up with London Sport to shape the future of physical activity on the tidal Thames as it seeks to develop 'Active Thames', a new partnership with the national governing bodies for canoeing, rowing and yachting and other interested organisations, such as the Canal & River Trust. It aims to increase public participation in sport on the river and beyond.

Coaches, volunteers and all participants, with access to waterways and the Thames itself from Teddington to the North Sea, are being asked to submit their views, by completing a short questionnaire by 24 April.

All respondents will be entered in a draw to win £250, in one of three categories.

Jenny Cooper, the PLA's sports participation & community outreach manager, said: "COVID-19 has really highlighted the benefits of outdoor exercise to health and wellbeing, with people turning to new sports and discovering local spaces.

"We saw a huge increase in new river users in the summer and we want them to come back, to keep active all year round and to enjoy the water safely. This survey will help us understand our new and existing audiences better, provide more opportunities, and support the incredible network of volunteers and staff who make sport happen."

"It's a key part of our long-term Thames Vision strategy, to maximise the social, economic and environmental benefits the river offers."

Lorna Leach, strategic relationship manager, London Sport, said: "We're excited to be working with the Port of London Authority on Active Thames. We expect this research to provide a strong base on which to increase physical activity levels and develop the workforce behind water sports provision across London to provide inclusive activity and employment.

"The programme seeks to open up much-needed blue space across the capital supporting the diverse communities of London to safely access the river for water sport activities and benefit from the significant health and wellbeing outcomes that physical activity offers."

Depending on your interest you can take part in the survey via the links below.

Participant (Anyone using 'blue space' for recreation) – Survey link

Coach (Anyone directly coaching participants, whether volunteering or paid) – Survey link

Administrator (Anyone providing administrative support, whether volunteering or paid. This section includes questions on facilities and participation levels) – Survey link