To mark its passing, the river’s 45 resident lock keepers arranged to wear their uniforms in full for the last time over the weekend of 28-29 April.

Speaking before the event, lock keeper Steve Norman, who has worked at Shepperton Lock or 23 years said, ‘Most of us feel quite sentimental about waving goodbye to our old uniforms. Many lock keepers have worked on the River Thames for over 20 years and have fond memories of wearing the formal tunic and cap for special occasions like royal visits.

‘These days we rarely wear the uniform in full but for the last weekend in April we’ve all decided to turn out in our tunic, waistcoat and cap for the last time. We hope boaters will be out in force to join us in wishing a fond farewell to the uniform.’

The former waistcoat was rarely worn in full except for special occasions. The fitted waistcoat and jacket made them uncomfortable to wear in hot or cold weather and impractical for day to day work which sometimes involved getting wet or dirty. The new uniform, which includes a fleece and waterproof jacket, is more practical and flexible to wear, depending on the weather.

An example of the old uniform has been donated to the River and Rowing Museum in Henley.