Rescuers work to save minke whale stranded in the River Thames
Rescuers are attempting to catch a whale that has become stranded for a second time in the River Thames.
Firefighters and RNLI teams were called to assist in rescuing of a minke whale at Richmond Lock and Weir in Richmond.
The minke whale measured four to six metres in length and was stranded on a concrete slipway.
Firefighters have assisted partner agencies after a minke whale got stuck in the River Thames at #Richmond last night. The whale is now being assessed by marine specialists https://t.co/pNfDwzadl0 pic.twitter.com/arbvypkl8Q
— London Fire Brigade (@LondonFire) May 10, 2021
RNLI teams managed to save the whale but it escaped an inflatable cushion that was guiding it while it was being towed to safety at 1am.
Throughout the day today it has been swimming between Richmond and a few miles along the river in Teddington.
It is believed the whale may have some injuries.
Station Commander Glen Nicolaides, who was at the scene, said: “This was a very rare and unusual incident.
“Crews assisted the Coastguard, RNLI and other marine agencies at the scene.
“Our crews were on standby while a marine biologist and vet assessed the condition of the whale.
“The mammal was removed for further assessment by marine specialists.”
Three fire engines and two fire rescue units from Richmond, Heston and Battersea fire stations have attended.
The Brigade’s fire boat from Lambeth River Fire Station was also at the scene.
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