The Thames twists and turns through our nation's history as well as our capital. KERRY ANN EUSTICE talks to an author who has tried to bridge the gap between past and present river stories.

THE Thames is much more than a property hotspot for riverside apartments.

It has served as a defence barrier during invasion, helped London become a trading capital and has inspired a story book's worth of legends.

The shape and atmosphere of the city is governed by the Thames and the river in turn by the bridges. Tower Bridge, for example, is instantly recognisable, surrounded by architecture which is equally as impressive.

The river's bridges have been instrumental ever since the capital was established.

When the Romans founded Londinium the Thames had no crossing points and the only ways to get from the south to the north was by boat or by getting wet.

The Romans built the first bridge to make travel easier.

There are now 17 points where the river can be crossed.

This fascinating past of the river's crossings is explored in the book by Chris Roberts, Cross River Traffic. Chris takes a journey back in time across, under and over London's bridges.

He explained: "I'm fascinated by London and the river, how the two interplay and how the city developed.

"It occurred to me the crossings seem to get overlooked both as architectural features and their importance to the shape of the city."

He added: "The Thames is the life-blood of London.

"In the past it was the major source of trade, so there is a reason for treating the river with respect.

"It has also been important for defending the capital and has acted as a political boundary."

The book is filled with Thames-related facts and fiction, including stories of Jack the Ripper suspect Montague John Druitt from Blackheath, and details of how Tower Bridge was floated downstream from Woolwich prior to construction.

Chris feels the bridges and tunnels around the river and any folklore associated with these structures reflect the character of the borough they are located in.

And he also thinks there are differences in atmosphere between east and west.

He said: "One of the themes of the book is how the shape and nature of London is largely dictated by the presence or the absence of bridges.

"The west, for example, has many crossings but there are few to the east. Plus, the tunnels and ferry at Woolwich give a different feel to the river in the south east because of it's industrial and dockside heritage."

Cross River Traffic also explores the future of the Thames.

Chris said: "I'm really excited at how London is refocusing on the Thames, and also the attention being paid to other rivers such as the Ravensbourne and Quaggy.

"Greenwich may well get its own bridge and Thamesmead looks certain to get one."