Lifeboat rescuers based in Chiswick are appealing to bravado-fuelled Rugby World Cup supporters to steer clear the Thames.

The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) is worried fans may be tempted to risk their lives after drinking in pubs and bars along the waterfront - particularly those from abroad who may not realise the dangers a tidal river poses.

Already crews have had to haul an inebriated French fan from the river, after he and a friend decided to jump into the River Thames at Hungerford Bridge in central London, but was immediately swept upstream by a strong current last Saturday.

And last Sunday afternoon they rescued a German supporter who jumped into the River Thames from Waterloo Bridge. The man had been drinking and told the crew he was visiting London to enjoy the world cup experience.

Speaking as England prepare to take on Wales at Twickenham today, Wayne Bellamy, Chiswick RNLI lifeboat station manager, said: "We want people to enjoy the rugby but we’ve been concerned to see people under the influence of alcohol deciding to swim or jump into in the River Thames.

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"After a few pints in one of the many bars and pubs that line the river, the water might look inviting, but it can be dangerously unpredictable with hazards that can prove fatal. The river often flows faster than an Olympic swimmer can swim and the effects of cold water can debilitate even strong swimmers.

"The human body’s reaction to sudden immersion in cold water will trigger uncontrollable gasping, which can draw water into the lungs and lead to drowning. It is great to see fans from home and abroad supporting their nations playing in the Rugby World Cup, but please don’t swim in the River Thames.

"It’s simply not worth the risk."

To combat the danger, London RNLI lifeboats from Chiswick and Teddington stations will be afloat patrolling the River Thames when matches are staged at Twickenham, as well as being on call 24/7 to respond to emergencies. But the RNLI is stressing that the best way to stay safe is not to go into the river in the first place.

The RNLI’s national Respect the Water safety campaign is urging people to be aware of the dangers water poses, particularly men who accounted for 74% of water-related deaths last year. Search for #RespectTheWater on social media.