Crew members in Thames during hydrofoil demonstration

Dec. 12, 1966 - A demonstration Mishap: Britain was introduced to a new water sport in the heart of London yesterday when a two-seater hydrofoil made its debut on the River Thames. The new craft is the smallest and cheapest foil riding craft in the world. Hi-Foiling is a completely new experience in aquatic sport. The craft is less than nine feet long, is powered by an outboard engine and has handlebar steering. it operates like any other craft up to ten to fifteen miles an hour. At this speed it rises clear of the water, balanced on two foils, fore and aft, positioned like the wheels of a motorcycle, and is balanced by the rider as a motorcycle is balanced, attaining speeds of 30 miles an hour or more. Constructed of glass fibre it weighs about 200 lbs, and is easily transportable. It has been perfected by Anglian Development Limited of Leigh-on-Sea. Unfortunately the Hi-Foil capsized on its first public trial when it struck a piece of wood on the Thames, and the crew, Iver Cole, aged 22, and 18-year old Julie Smith, were flung into the icy river water. A spokesman for the firm who makes it said: We realised the river might be a bit hazardous with all those floating things about, but we decided to take the risk'. After the little craft had been dried out, it was put thorugh its paces again - and this time there were no accidents as it skimmed a foot above the water at 25 mph. Photo shows Iver Cole and Julie Smith get a ducking at yesterday's demonstration of the new Hi-Foil

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