Saturday 30 August 08 - 16:46
 

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Hire bookings on the up

Business is looking good for Thames boat operators, says the Environment Agency (EA). Traders have reported increases up to 20% on last year's bookings and are looking forward to a busy boating season.

Chris Clark of Kris Cruisers, based at Datchet, said: "In spite of the flooding and bad weather last November we've had a good number of bookings. We're booked up for about 50% of this season, which is better than this time last year."

Barry Brant, owner of Swancraft Ltd based at Benson, is similarly optimistic, with one boat already booked up for the season.

Plans to invest in another two boats next year are also underway.

Halcyon Boating Holidays is also looking forward to a busy summer, after investing in another six boats to keep up with booking numbers.

Cliff Eden, owner of Halcyon Boating Holidays based at Eynsham, said: "Since starting up in May last year, business on the Thames has been better than expected. 2002 was busy but this year is even stronger - bookings are up by 20% and we've had to get six more boats to keep up with demand.

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