Spectators at Chiswick Pier were stunned last Saturday to see some of the world's top rowing teams sinking, as squally conditions swamped their boats on the River Thames.

It was a cloudless afternoon, but strong winds had created choppy waters on the course between Chiswick and Putney.

Four boats sank within minutes of the start, and at least four crews were landed at Chiswick Pier, run by local charity, the Chiswick Pier Trust, and the Trust members launched into action to assist in the rescue operation and bring around 40 crew members into the Pier House, to warm up and get checked over by paramedics.

More than 400 boats had entered The Head of the River Race which is one of the major Thames races, with teams of eight competing along the University Boat Race course.

A total of 50 boats started, but the dangerous conditions forced the organisers to abandon the race to avoid a major safety incident.

RNLI Helmsmen Mark Turrell, in charge of the lifeboat that afternoon, said: "It was a beautiful sunny day but conditions created by a strengthening wind against a strong tide showed that the tidal Thames can be a dangerous place."

Only 29 crews managed to finish the course and 10 boats sank into the murky waters of the Thames. Crews were plucked from the chilly river by the combined forces of the river police, Port of London Authority, safety boats and the RNLI. At one point, around 100 people were stuck in the water.

Hopefully, conditions for this Saturday's Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race will be better and the Chiswick Pier Trust will again be opening its doors to the public.

This is one of the best places to watch the race, as it is on the outside of the bend with long river views. You can watch the start and finish of the race on TV then watch the live action as the crews pass Chiswick Pier, as well as enjoying a bar supplied by Fullers', a barbecue and a live band. Doors open at 12.30pm.

Location and directions to the Pier House, Corney Reach Way, Chiswick, can be found at chiswickpier.org.uk