Art students from Richmond upon Thames College have joined Sir Steve Redgrave's call for Thames Water to halt its plans to pump treated sewage into the River Thames.

Their sculpture, 'Withering Time', serves as a powerful statement against the proposed Teddington Direct River Abstraction (TDRA) scheme.

The winning design, a permanent piece of art, will be unveiled today (Thursday, 27 March) at 4pm outside The Anglers pub in Teddington by local MP Munira Wilson.

Ben Walton, Manager at The Anglers, said: "As a local pub that serves the local community we have been delighted to be involved in this project.

"Given our location, so close to the river, we have a determination to see a healthy River Thames and their determination, ensuring we challenge anything, such as TDRA, that will cause long term environmental damage for local people, wildlife and water safety".

The Anglers is located at Teddington Lock (credit: Tilly O'Brien)

Richmond upon Thames College partnered with the community campaign group Save Our Lands and River (SOLAR), which has received support from over 100 local businesses and organisations, including The Anglers.

Emma Tolhurst, SOLAR Campaigner and Competition Coordinator, commented: "Save our Lands and River is proud to celebrate our dynamic partnership between SOLAR, The Anglers and Richmond upon Thames College.

"We have been so impressed by the passion, energy and creativity from the winning team as well as the rest of the competition entries.

"We would encourage everyone to join with these amazing young people in finding out more about Thames Water's environmentally destructive proposals and visit our website to see how to get involved"

The students' sculpture is a visual statement encouraging people to reflect on the environmental changes that may lie ahead, particularly if the TDRA scheme proceeds.

It highlights the importance of community-driven action in preserving local ecosystems.

The TDRA scheme poses serious risks to the river's health, potentially impacting water quality and the wellbeing of those who rely on the Thames for recreation, relaxation, and mental health support.

The winning sculpture was a collaborative piece created by college students Farhat Barmak, Kayla Sylvan-Mcdonald, and Simran Thandi.

Jo Terrell, Head of Creative Arts at Richmond upon Thames College, added: "At Richmond upon Thames College we are proud of our students and the creative energy they bring.

"We were delighted to work with SOLAR and to see the range of ideas that the students created to address the critical issue of water quality.

"The winning entry will now be there for many years to come, showing everyone who passes the passionate voice of young people."

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