A MAN was rescued after falling into the River Thames when his boat became stuck.

Fire crews were called to the Thames at around 8pm on Thursday.

One of the occupants of the boat had fallen into the river but had already been helped from the water by a passerby when firefighters arrived.

The Osney lockkeeper was able to lower the water level by adjusting a local weir which released the boat from under the bridge.

The man who had been in the water was taken to hospital by South Central Ambulance Service as a precautionary measure.

Station manager Gary D’Anger said “This was an example where the fire service, ambulance and the Environment Agency worked together to solve a potentially life-threatening situation.

“The River Thames has risen significantly since the heavy rains experienced in the city on Wednesday.

“Boat owners and other river users should take extreme care during this period as there is a strong flow on the river.”