A South West London couple who sailed down the Thames in a charity 'Sleigh Boat' have thanked the public for their support.

Sacha and Matt Prichard, who go by Londonislandliving on social media, embarked on their festive voyage last month in order to raise money for the Teenage Cancer Trust.

In total the couple managed to raise £1,250 for the organisation, and despite challenges around safety and functionality, as well as concerns about the weather, Sacha claimed the support of the public "made the endeavour worthwhile".

She said: "After the months of build up, stress, work and logistical planning, the day itself was unbelievably fun.

"The amount of people that came down to the riverbank to support/see Santa and our hard work was pretty extraordinary.

"We had children running along the riverbank, and families shouting our names from the bridges - it was pretty bonkers to see the reaction.

"I can't believe how generous people have been."

When asked what her favourite aspect of the event was, Sacha claimed she was particularly proud of the holiday cheer the couple brought to local residents.

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She said: "This fundraiser was to purely bring a bit of joy and Christmas cheer, and it really felt like we succeeded in that.

"Every single person we passed on the riverbank had a smile on their face."

Sacha also revealed that the positive public reaction has encouraged the couple to consider bringing back the Sleigh Boat this year.

She said: "The reaction from strangers on the riverbank, and my community's response makes me want to do it again.

"We have learnt from our mistakes this year, meaning 2026 will be bigger and better."