Toddler suffered potentially life-changing burns in Lechlade boat explosion

Wiltshire Police have issued an update following an explosion on a boat in Lechlade over the weekend.

At around noon on Saturday 31 May, officers received a report of a boat fire on the River Thames.

At the time of the incident, the boat was away from the bank, and as a result all of those onboard – five adults and four children aged from 18 months to seven years – ended up in the water.

The nine people involved were taken to hospital. Three of the party remain in hospital in a stable condition, and two of them – including the 18-month-old child – have suffered potentially life-changing burns.

A cordon remains in place while further enquiries into the incident and a recovery operation for the boat are carried out.

Detective Superintendent Joe Garrity said: “Our thoughts are with those affected by this tragic incident.

“It is a miracle there were no fatalities, and much of that must be put down to the response of two holidaymakers from Wales who happened to be passing.

“With no thought for their own safety, they jumped into the Thames to help save the lives of those involved, some of whom couldn’t swim.

“It was heroic bravery.

“I would also like to thank Gloucestershire and Thames Valley Police officers who were the first to respond to the incident, RAF Fairford who also provided support, and the ambulance and fire services.

“A cordon remains in place on the river to ensure the safety of other canal users and for further enquiries into the cause of the explosion to be carried out. The boat itself also needs to be recovered.

“This scene is likely to remain in place for the next few days.”

“I would encourage anyone with relevant information to contact Wiltshire Police quoting log 129 of May 31.”