'A miracle nobody died' - three, including toddler, in hospital after boat explodes into flames

A local resident describes the aftermath of the rescue

Three people, including a toddler, are in hospital following an explosion on a residential boat on the River Thames.

Emergency services were called to the River Thames near Lechlade just before midday on Saturday 31 May.

At the time of the incident, everyone on board the boat - five adults and four children - ended up in the water.

Police have described two passersby who dived in to rescue the group from the water as 'heroic', adding that it is a 'miracle' nobody died.

One of these passerby, Josh, has been described by local resident Martin Elsender as "a proper life-saving hero".

The group was taken to hospital where three people still remain, including an 18-month-old baby who has suffered potentially life-changing burns.

A police cordon remains in place at the scene near St John's lock while the recovery operation continues on Monday.

'A miracle there were no fatalities'

Detective Superintendent Joe Garrity from Gloucestershire Police 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.

'Heroic bravery'

“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.”