The family of a rower who died after a boat capsized on the Thames near Sunbury Lock have paid tribute to “kind, caring, gentle and loving” husband, dad, brother and grandpa.

Peter Lawson, 68, died after six people ended up in the water near Sunbury Lock on Friday, October 11.

Five people were rescued but Peter, who was an extremely experienced rower and rowing umpire was missing.

The RNLI crews from Teddington supported the initial rescue and the subsequent search of the river.

His body was recovered near Sunbury Weir yesterday (Sunday)

In a statement issued today Monday, his family said: “On Friday 11 October 2024 we lost our dear Peter, aged 68, in a tragic rowing incident near Sunbury Lock.

“In life, he will be remembered fondly as a gentle and loving husband, a thoughtful and responsible brother, a kind and caring father, and an absolutely wonderful grandpa.

“We have been overwhelmed by the support and respect shown by the rowing community for him and his abilities, not just as an extremely experienced rower of many years, but as a British Rowing Umpire.

“His other passion in life was singing, and he was a member of four choirs including The Royal Choral Society. As we try to process our loss, we hope to be given the space and privacy to grieve as a family.”

Police continue to investigate the cause of the accident.