Skipper Tim Chivers and crewman Peter Hickman, of the workboat Malamute, have been recognised for their outstanding seamanship, keen observation skills and quick reactions, which saved a woman’s life in freezing and perilous conditions.
The crewmen have been awarded a commendation by the national maritime charity, the Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society, as part of its annual Skill & Gallantry Awards for their heroic actions in rescuing a young woman from the River Thames.
At 5:45am on Tuesday 17th December 2024, Tim and Peter were steaming up the River Thames near Blackfriars Bridge when, despite the near-total darkness two hours before sunrise, they spotted something in the water that didn’t look right. Both were used to seeing rubbish floating by, but their instincts told them this was different. On investigating, they realised it was a body floating face down in the water.
Tim manoeuvred the vessel alongside and, after repeated efforts to secure the casualty using a boat hook, they eventually managed to roll her over and saw it was a young woman, thankfully still alive. As the tide rapidly pushed them towards a nearby jetty, the pair manoeuvred back alongside, grabbed hold of her and, working together, hauled her out of the freezing water onto the deck of Malamute.
Once aboard, Peter tended to the casualty while Tim contacted London Port Control. Within minutes, the local RNLI lifeboat arrived to provide urgent medical support and evacuated the woman to safety.
Captain Justin Osmond RN, Chief Executive of the Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society, praised their actions: “This rescue demonstrates the very best traditions of seamanship – sharp observation, decisive action and a strong sense of duty. Tim and Peter’s quick reactions ensured the survival of a young woman who might otherwise have been lost. Their professionalism and selflessness make them thoroughly deserving of a Crew Commendation.”
The Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society offers support to those across the UK that are suffering hardship during, or after fulfilling their life at sea. The charity aims to offer support to seafarers, and their dependants, to make a positive difference to their lives. The charity continues to provide help to thousands of individuals each year by offering financial and practical support to those in need.
