Annual traditional swan count to start on River Thames
The annual 5-day 'Swan Upping' ceremony - which involved counting every swan on the Thames - starts today
An annual tradition that sees Royal Swan Uppers assess the health of every swan on the River Thames, is getting underway today.
Swan Upping has been a tradition since the 12th century.
The process involves the Royal Swan Marker and his team, known as the Swan Uppers, embarking on a five day journey along the Thames, starting this morning (14th July) in Surrey and ending in Oxfordshire on Friday afternoon.
The Swan Uppers will travel in a flotilla of boats, in scarlet rowing shirts, shouting ‘All up!’ as they come across a group of swans.
On their way, the team will weigh and measure cygnets, as well as checking them for any signs of injury, which can commonly be caused by fishing hooks and lines.
Swan Upping started as a ceremonial tradition, however in recent times, it’s become an important event for wildlife conservation in the area.
Over the course of the week many schools will meet the Swan Uppers on their journey along the river.
The children involved will have the opportunity to look at the birds close up and ask questions about either the swans or the event as a whole.
Where to see the Swan Upping this week
Monday
Sunbury 09.00 - Departure point
Shepperton Lock 10.15
Penton Hook Lock 12.30
Romney Lock 17.30
Tuesday
Eton Bridge 08.30 - Departure point
Boveney Lock 09.15
Boulters Lock 12.30
Cookham Bridge 13.30
Marlow Lock 17.30
Wednesday
Marlow Bridge 09.00 - Departure point
Hurley Lock 10.30
Hambleden Lock 12.00
Henley Town 13.15
Marsh Lock 15.30
Shiplake Lock 17.00
Sonning Bridge 18.00
Thursday
Sonning-on-Thames 09:00 - Departure point
Caversham Lock 10.15
Mapledurham Lock 12.30
Goring Lock 17.00
Moulsford 18.00
Friday
Moulsford 09.00 - Departure point
Benson Lock 10.00
Clifton Hampden Bridge 13.00
Culham Lock 16.15
Abingdon Bridge 17.00