Safety fears will close Hammersmith Bridge to Boat Race crowds

Spectators on the Hammersmith Bridge during the Boat Race on the Thames (Picture: PA)

Spectators at the Boat Race will be unable to watch it from Hammersmith Bridge this year because of safety concerns.

The annual varsity showdown between Oxford and Cambridge crews, attracts thousands along the route between Putney and Mortlake.

Hammersmith and Fulham council, who own the bridge, said police asked them to close it between 12am to 5pm on race day, Sunday March 29.

This means that the bridge, which shut to vehicles last April and needs £120 million of repairs, will also be closed for the day to pedestrians and cyclists.

Spectators on Hammersmith Bridge watch the Women's Boat Race (PA)

Transport for London is due to share details of a temporary walking and cycling bridge.

MPs are today urging the Government to foot the rest of the repair bill after £25 million of cash from TfL is used up this summer.