Tower Hamlets Canoe Club Rules for paddling on the Tideway

1. To paddle on the Thames you must be an approved club member. BCU 3 Star is required for river paddling, unless training. 
   
2. Canoeists must paddle in buddy groups of at least three people. 
   
3. Each group must have a nominated leader who is responsible for the group. 
   
4. Before departure, the group leader must ensure that each group member has the appropriate equipment. 
   
5. If it is dark, each paddler must wear a headlight and each group must carry at least one all-round white light. 
   
6. Group members must stay together at all times - within a radius of 25 metres - and in sight of each other. 
   
7. The duty officer will ensure that the river log is completed by all group leaders before and after paddling on the river.
   
8. The log will list the names of group members, their departure times, routes and return times.
   
9. The duty officer must notify Woolwich on 020 8855 0315 of routes, group numbers, estimated times and return times.
   
10. Canoeists should remain close to the banks at all times, keeping well clear of any river traffic. When crossing from one bank to the other, cross at right angles.

Violation of the rules will result in:

• 1st violation: 3-week ban from paddling on the river
• 2nd violation: life-time ban from paddling on the river

Violations must be reported by group leaders to the duty officer or the Club Committee.

Shadwell Basin will carry out random checks to ensure that everyone is following the rules.