IT WAS sad to see the boat half submerged by Botley Bridge, but what is even sadder is the cruel comments of some people.

A man has lost his home. Yes he should have been insured, but he isn’t the first and won’t be the last not to have insurance. The Thames at Osney is at its narrowest and fastest, especially at this time of year.

No one would choose to moor there if there was anywhere else to go. Sadly the council representatives work very hard to keep the banks free from boats. People have to live somewhere and I am of the opinion more should be done to provide moorings and facilities in Oxford for the boating fraternity.

I realise councillors have to represent their constituents, but they must also realise that these people have a right to exist on the river. Their boat is their home, they need to be accommodated not persecuted.

Unfortunately for them, if a councillor stood up for boaters he/she wouldn’t be a councillor for long.

PAUL SMITH
Pensclose
Witney