22nd August 2013

Just before and just after a full moon the tide is always high but today (yesterday was a full moon) was one of the highest tides I have seen for a while. It was 5.31 meters at 16.37 and I was at Teddington Lock just a few minutes later. This is the highest reach of the river Thames that is tidal.

I knew I wanted to photograph this bench as the wrought iron railings mark the edge of the path and river bank. Normally the river is a good few feet lower but today it had flooded over the path - spot the duck swimming by on the other side of the railings! A bit of a flat grey sky but never mind.

I like the reflections and the bench has a remembrance plaque to Edward 'Ted' Mitchell. Although I never knew Ted I think it is lovely that every time people read this plaque his name is remembered.

[Maggiemae]

It looks wet on the ground here from the flooding but would be a lovely place to sit and stare at the passing water traffic!

[Emma Durnford]

I was paddling to take the photo and realised as my feet got damp! Normally its a great spot to watch all the activity of the boats in the locks.

[Stephanie Swift]

It makes a really different picture to show things, like this bench, surrounded by water, which usually aren't.

[Andrea]

Looks tranquil though, like it

[Rob Wareham]

Like the composition and the reflection. It was worth getting wet feet for.