Number 142
Spring 2010 Edition
WATERWITCH MAGAZINE OF THE LANCASTER CANAL TRUST
The Lancaster Canal Trust (Registered Charity No.24O957 Affiliated to the Inland Waterways Association Ltd.) http://www.lancastercanaltrust.org.uk/
LANCASTER CANAL TRUST
MEMBERS’ MORNING A very warm welcome is extended to all members to attend this year’s gathering at
Over Kellet Village Hall on
25th September 2010 10.00 – 12.30 There will be presentations focusing on the new impetus to our restoration plans:
‘The Way Forward’ An especially warm welcome awaits new members who have joined us since our last gathering in 2009 Tea, coffee and biscuits available
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Contents Letter from the Editor Chairman's Report Volunteer Awards 100 Club and notice of meeting Skipton Waterways Festival Tewitfield Information Panel Boat Operation mangers Report Helen’s Puzzle Fuelling Stops on the Lanky Working Party Report Hullo to new members Restoration Report and RESCOM Old Canal thoughts- Ian Dunn Anatomy of an Engine British Waterways Update Gilks Proposals Review
3 4 4 5 6 8 10 13 14 16 21 22 24 27 30 31
Welcome to this summer edition of Waterwitch. As last, as I write, it seems to be getting warmer at last. A great deal seems to have taken place since the last issue. Much good work has been achieved by Paul Shaw and his Working Parties, ably assisted by yet another visit from the Waterways Recovery Group. The Hincaster Horse Path continues to be rescued from years of decay and neglect. Our Trip Boat ‘Waterwitch’, in the hands of Frank Chalmers, Alan Mather, Neil McGarry and all the boat operation gang, has been through a very through restoration during its recent lift out and it is now back in action with good few years of life ahead. We continue to work on recruitment and publicity with another round of shows booked for this summer and a new information panel at Tewitfield. We are now more actively seeking grant funding and most importantly we have been making real efforts to get to grips with those areas of restoration which we feel to be within our capabilities. With the Canal Head Phase I somewhat stalled by planning applications etc., we have solicited the views of the IWA Restoration committee and had talks with BW, Cumbria Wildlife and various landowners to facilitate out efforts in trying to raise the level of the Canal southwards from Stainton and in putting together a plan to restore to water the section from Stainton to Wellhead Lane. This will not be easy but without trying we never shall succeed. So it is quite eye opening, when you stand back and take an overall look, to see the great variety of expertise, dedication and goodwill that exits with this Trust. It is amazing that we have achieved so much with the level of active members we presently enjoy. We know that many who join to support the cause are not in a position to offer active support but if you do feel that you can get in touch,, We’ll be very pleased to hear from you. Enjoy the summer. Regards. David Currington
Ps. A note from the Webmaster, Mike Valiant . He’s now added a "100 Club" page and application form to the web and made a News item to highlight it. . Front cover: The Waterway Recovery Group assemble at Tewitfield for work on the locks 3
All in all this was a great boost to our plans. 1st May saw the unveiling of the new information panel at Tewitfield. This answers the questions often raised by visiting boaters about the Northern Reaches. The panel shows a route map from Tewitfield to Kendal, illustrated and annotated with information about how the restoration project can be achieved. Looking to future events, we have a busy summer of shows and festivals where we will be taking the Trust’s publicity material, starting on Bank Holiday Monday 3rd May at the Skipton Waterways Festival. The following Bank Holiday weekend (end of May) sees us at the Country Festival at Crooklands (Westmorland Show Ground) for three days, complete with Waterwitch boat trips. We have been fortunate in booking Dr. Geraint Coles as the speaker to follow the Annual General Meeting on 24th June. Geraint is the Development Manager for the Chesterfield Canal Partnership and several of our committee members were able to hear his talk to the Lancaster Canal Restoration Partnership meeting in January. The Northern Reaches has a lot in common with the Chesterfield Canal, and they are some way ahead of us in the restoration process; we can learn a lot from them. I urge you to attend the AGM if you possibly can, not only to play a part in the management of this Trust but also to hear this inspirational speaker. Finally, since my ‘call to arms’ in the last edition of Waterwitch, several people have stepped forward to offer their skills and services; a sincere thank you to those folk. However, I make no apology for repeating the plea for members to
Chairman’s Report Several events of the past three months suggest that our efforts to mobilise activity on some of the more straightforward parts of the restoration project are beginning to bear fruit. A publicity feature in the Westmorland Gazette in March generated some positive feedback and in particular it led to a generous offer from a plant hire company to provide us with an excavator and driver for a weekend working party. We are now planning a suitable project where we can make best use of this offer. The weekend working party in March had the benefit of the visit by the Waterway Recovery Group, delayed from January on account of the snow and ice. Their two day visit supplemented our own team and resulted in some very productive construction and clearance work. We are also keen to extend the working party programme to the summer months and to days other than Sundays. More on working parties elsewhere in this edition. We were privileged to be able to host the IWA Restoration Committee meeting in April, when we had the full attention of 15 highly experienced canal restoration people. Having received the necessary briefing papers before the meeting, they saw a presentation by David Currington and entered into a most useful discussion with half a dozen of our Exec Committee members. This was followed by a site visit to the Stainton area where we have our sights set on the first elements of the work.
(Continued on page 33)
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A reminder to all members of the Trust of the ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING to be held Thursday 24th June 2010 at Village Hall Over Kellet Commencing at 8.00pm We have been very fortunate in obtaining as our Guest Speaker
Geraint Coles Development Manager for the Chesterfield Canal Partnership An excellent speaker, Geraint is currently involved with such matters as: • Planning for the restoration of the Chesterfield Canal from Kiveton to Staveley. • The development of visitor facilities along the canal, especially improving information boards, signposting, footpath links, access points and public transport. • The promotion of the canal to the widest possible audience. Apologies to: D Currington Hon. Sec 12 Sedbergh Road Kendal Cumbria LA96AD or to dadcurrington@hotmail.com
100 Club March
Prizes: 1st £25; 2nd £15; 3rd £10. Winning Numbers since last Issue 1st 2nd 3rd 82 G Dunn 16 E Sibbert 12 R Ogilvy
April
16 E Sibbert
25 Blank
36 J Muncaster
May
57 K Midgley
44 E Jackson
69 H Bagot
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Skipton Waterways Festival 2010 Although we’ve attended the Skipton Festival several times now, this was the first time we had come by boat. There were competitions and entertainments exclusively for those who had arrived afloat and it was fun to be part of the cruising community. This year’s theme was ‘The Forties’ and there were many imaginative displays among the entries for the Best Decorated Boat Competition. The worthy winner had created an ama zing extravaganza based on famous war movies, complete with tunnelling POWs making their ‘Great Escape’! Songstress Madeline Brown recreated the unmistakable sounds of Vera Lynn and the
Cliffs of Dover”, though “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy of Company B” was a bit more of a mouthful. Fair weather ensured a high turnout on all three days and, though we only had the LCT stand there on the Monday, we had a busy time. Extra sales stock had arrived, so the tables had a refreshed appeal for both staff and visitors. We signed up two new members and made nearly £100 from subscriptions, donations and sales. We also collected lots more signatures for the petition. Thanks are due to Beryl Bowcott, David Slater and Mike Valiant for manning the stand and Madeline Dean for resolving the gazebo crisis on Sunday evening. Thanks also to new members Peter and Jeanette Higham, who joined at the show and stayed to help pack up. Fran Valiant
Andrews Sisters and even youthful visitors were spotted singing along to the nostalgic strains of “We’ll Meet Again” and “White 6
EVENTS 2010 The LCT information/sales stand will be at the following venues this year: ♦ Country Fest at Westmorland Showground, May 29-30 ♦ Haslam Park Centenary, Preston, July 10 ♦ Preston Riversway Festival, July 24 ♦ IWA National at Beale Park, August 28-30 ♦ Westmorland County Show, September 9 ♦ Kendal Torchlight Carnival, September 10 ♦ Members’ Morning, Over Kellet Village Hall, Sept. 25 10.00-12.30 ♦ Coffee Morning at Gaskell Hall, Silverdale, October 23 10am-12 noon. To be confirmed: ♦ Lancashire Day at Lytham St Annes, November 27 A warm welcome awaits all members who visit the stand so do come and say hello if you are attending any of these events. We're always glad of extra help so please contact Trisha Buzzard on 07802438412 or pbuzzard@o2.co.uk if you can spare an hour or two to assist at any of the venues.
Our refreshment booth and information stand awaits thirsty ramblers, cyclists, anglers and boaters again this summer. We will be setting up at selected venues this year, so come along and enjoy a cuppa if you’re in the area between 2.00 and 4.30 on the following dates:
Sunday
13th June
Tewitfield
Saturday
17th July
Galgate
Saturday
14th August
Tewitfield
Sunday
19th September
Garstang
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Tewitfield Information Panel Unveiling The sun shone on us on Saturday morning 1st May as about 60 local supporters (including various dignitaries) gathered at Tewitfield to witness the unveiling of the panel by Geraldine Smith. Coffee and chat were in abundance and it was obvious that there was great support for works towards the restoration of the Northern Reaches. It was a good opportunity to include a contribution to the SOS campaign (IWA's Save Our System) and our guests were interested to read all about it. Richard Trevitt introduced Geraldine to everyone and she made a gracious speech before exposing the panel to view. The plinth had been partly erected by the recent WRG party which came to help out in April and finished by our Volunteers later. Helen and Peter Thomas, and their daughter Janet, were responsible for producing the graphic panel depicting the proposed restoration works up to Kendal. Also to hand were the recently installed all-weather leaflet holders which are already proving very popular with passers by as they need to be refilled quite a lot more often than we had initially thought! In his capacity as man of all trades, Richard not only put up the leaflet holders but was also seen carrying a large bundle towards the plinth just before the opening ...the overalls were a bit of a disguise and it was only when he asked for a brew after he had done the job that we realised we were not dealing with any ordinary odd jobber here !!! So a good day was had by one and all and we managed to get packed away and tidied up before the heavens opened (well it was a bank holiday weekend after all). If you have a chance to get up to Tewitfield, have a look at the panel - it is well worth the trip. TB 8
Opposite: Geraldine Smith after the unveiling and below our now famous ‘Waterwitch Brew’ gazebo keeping visitors supplied with refreshments. This Page: The finished panel; President Hal Bagot and Chairman Richard Trevitt pose with Geraldine in a very apt location and below visiting boats take part in the event.
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Boat Operation Manager’s Report Spoilt, for a half penny worth of tar…. That’s what people say if you be treated with non slip. The scrimp on the refurbishment, extra space in the lockers means which I’m glad to say has not we can be tidier and more happened. The boat is looking organised – so some of the engine good. The new floor panels room equipment now rests in the allowed us to re-ballast with hold. The engine room is a grey reasonable ease (thanks Chris, silver all through and the engine Alan & Tom). Beneath the floor sits in the middle looking smart in the ballast sits on plastic spacers its new deep blue paint – it’s to allow air water and moisture to clean, spacious and easy to maintain. And that means we will quickly reach the hold pump – it means that the paint and blacking will last longer inside the hull and water or condensation will not just sit there causing problems later (thanks Dave C). The floor is held down with stainless steel screws – most of the new work has replaced ferrous material. The colour scheme inside works well – cream/blue (hull The new propeller sides), pale cream (hold cabin), tile red (benches) and deep blue floor (thanks to Tom need to dust, wash, polish, who painted all of this) and the sponge to keep it just so! “walk on” surfaces are all , or will The propeller/drive shaft/ stern gland renewal has proved to be just fine – she handles just as before - like a little ballerina (in the right hands). We are still completing the engine room doors repair using the cold galvanising 96% liquid zinc - “Zinga”, plus undercoats and silicon seals will keep the doors neat and rust free. We are applying strong magnets to the doors to keep them from swinging - another innovation. It’s (Continued on page 11)
The sparkling blue engine ready to go
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siltation in the tube. There is no stone left unturned on this boat’s renovation, “stem to stern” – the engine was stripped down to its basic components, new teeth on the fly wheel, new oil pipe (that had worn), adjustments and injector tests and it still sounds like a Lister! (thanks Neil). Trust Vice Chair Helen Thomas gets ready to Thanks to Brian who celebrate the re-launch has laid coat after coat of British Racing Green (Continued from page 10) (and undercoats) on the outside – just possible to see the new this has resulted in a really anodes when the water is clear smooth finish that has to be and we shall see just how these stroked to be believed. We await sacrifice in three years (thanks to the lettering and final bits eagerly, John Murray and Mr Latham and this will be accomplished we from Zincsmart). There are six in hope in the next few weeks total – four on the hull and two on depending on the weather. There the rudder. The tiller bar and is no point rushing a good job and tube have all been treated with I prefer quality to speed; it lasts Zinga as we found that they were longer…worth the half penny corroded and the tube silted up. worth of tar! We have solid silicon gaskets top We are always seeking to improve and bottom now to reduce future and the boat seems to always have some “work in progress”. The current work research and actions are – the gangplank (bringing this up to modern industrial specification), radio communication (seeking external funding to purchase proper marine spec units), steps (changing t h e c u r r e n t A toast, H&S would not allow us to crack it open!
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(Continued on page 12)
arrangement to make it safer and simpler), new cleat system (stainless steel in new position where they will not be rubbed against the jetty), “glass clear” tarpaulin (to enable the boat to run in poor weather and to stop charters being cancelled at the last minute) – do you have suggestions to help us improve? Email me on
(Continued from page 11)
frankrdale@yahoo.co.uk
Thanks to all who have helped, and to all who have offered… Frank Chalmers, Operations Manager. Top: The last few feet before the Waterwitch is afloat once more. Left; A satisfied quintet Chris; Tom; Alan ; Frank & Neil have time for a smile. Right: A birds eye view. Below: Frank gives the thumbs up on the first training trip after the overhaul
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HELEN’S WORD SEARCH
LANCASTER CANAL BRIDGES Can you find the 33 bridges in the maze below. If you want a real challenge then cover the names up and use the Trust’s Canal Guide to pick them out!
Answer page 29
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Fuelling Stops on the Lanky (The Glasson Arm)
The Mill Inn Thurnham
Moving off of the main line of the Lancaster Canal I decided to report on a pub located near Glasson dock. This was the Mill Inn, converted in 1992 into a large pub originally known as Thurnham Mill but now just as The Mill. Set in its own extensive gardens and with a modern children’s out door play area and ducks to feed, the Inn itself retains its original flagstone floors in some bars and also the original wooden beams. An article in our Waterwitch in the 1970’s reveals that a closer look at Thurnham Corn mill is quite rewarding. It stated, ‘It receives mention in Ashmore's "Industrial Archaeology of Lancashire" but we have been able to expand on this by reference to the present day owners W. & J Pye Ltd, Agricultural Merchants & Food Compounders, of Fleet Square, Lancaster. We are extremely grateful to one of the Directors, R. Edgar Pye, for taking the trouble to give the Trust all he knows from his records. W quote: "According to our records, the Lancaster Canal Company purchased a mill on this site in 1824, for about £1100, mainly to obtain the right to take water from the River Condor and divert it into the canal. We understand that it was in bad condition at that time and was re-built 1829/30 for a cost of approx £750. About 1885 the mill and canal was sold to the London and North Western Railway Company and we took tenancy of it somewhere between 1887 and 1890, but probably Pub Manger Ian (right) (Continued on page 15) at his Bar.
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This boater told me he was on his was going back to the Thames after a brief stop at the Dock.
The Mill Inn Thurnham Mill Lane Lancaster LA2 0BD T: (01524) 752852 Central Reservations: 0800 083 7706 http://www.thurnham-millhotel.co.uk/index.php 1887. We purchased the property from the British Transport Commission in 1952. I believe that there were three pairs of stones in the mill at one time and we certainly ran an oatmeal plant there for many years. There was a drying kiln installed and this part of the mill is now occupied by a special mixing plant devoted to milk powder based feeds for calves etc. The turbine was removed to give more warehousing space about 1970/71. My brother found some reference to a mill at Thurnham in 1740 and we can only presume that this was the mill purchased by the Lancaster Canal Company in 1824." Inside the pub has a main bar area which was well stocked with two well kept beers from the Mitchell’s range, plus a guest. Also on offer was the usual range of lagers and wines. There were three other adjoining seating areas, each furnished in a slightly differing style -The Lockkeepers; The Mill Race and The Miller’s lounges. The pub, like most pubs these days, naturally relies heavily on the food side of the business and has a good menu including Lancashire produce, There is also a children’s menu. Tuesday evening is Indian Cuisine night. The Inn also has 15 comfortable en-suite rooms. The building sits directly adjacent to the Canal and the Lock chamber so at times there is the chance to see the boats passing up and down the Canal. DC
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volunteers, and therefore best left to British Waterways.
Working Party Report
In March, our friends from WRG NW came for the weekend, staying at the village hall in Warton. A good compliment of our own members helped out on both Saturday and Sunday.
T
he normal working party season has now ended. In February, although we’ve had a very productive finish to the season, helping to make up for the 2 cancelled sessions earlier.
As well as completing the wall at Hincaster, we cleared the bywashes a n d a d j a c e nt a r e a s a r o u n d Tewitfield locks, and also used the work boat to gain access into some of the lock chambers to remove saplings growing from the walls. The bywashes and lock chambers now look good, and it really makes a difference to the view of them from the towpath. This work is vital to prevent future potential damage to the walls, so that when we reopen this section of the canal the repairs required at that time will be minimal.
In February, a good turn out of 16 volunteers had a very productive day around the Hincaster tunnel. The main focus of the work for that day was repairing the walls on the accommodation bridge at the East end of the horsepath. Richard and his team were able to use the skills gained in working on the Western bridge last year to get the walls almost complete, with the only outstanding work being to lift into place the coping stones. Because of the weight of the stones, this work could only be completed after the mortar had set, and so was not completed until the following work party in March.
In addition, work was started on building the plinth to take the new information panel at the current head of navigation at Tewitfield (more details about this on page 8) The April working party continued the work started in March, ensuring that the plinth was ready for the official opening in May.
The walls to both bridges have now been completed to a very exacting He ritag e sta n da rd , an d i t’s something I feel the Trust as a whole can be proud of.
Although that’s the end of the normal working parties, we are hoping to undertake one or two projects during the summer. Several people have already expressed their interest in working through the summer, and my thanks to those who have already contacted me. If
In February, the rest of the group not involved in the wall repairs spent their time clearing vegetation from the picnic area to the East end, the towpath area to the West and ivy from the East Portal. Clearing the ivy from the portal revealed extensive damage to one of the buttresses, and because of the access problems to repair this, we feel it is a job which unfortunately can not be undertaken by our
(Continued on page 33)
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Repairing the East Parapet Accommodation Bridge Hincaster Horse Path
Top left: All ready to go Top right: Sorting out the stones Middle left: Filling in the jig-saw Middle right: Nearly finished Lower left: Topping out Lower right: A grand job! Bottom left: Chairman Richard patching the opposite wall.
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Clearing both portals on the Hincaster Tunnel
Above: All working Parties love a bonfire!
Above: Tackling the undergrowth at West entrance
Above: Time for lunch
Above left & right: Clearing the ivy above the Tunnel entrance Left: Severe damage to the coping is probably going to be a job for BW with their lifting gear.
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Waterway Recovery Group lends a hand Tewitfield Locks
Top Left: The gathering. Middle Left and both above: One of the channels before, during and after to indicate the size of the problem and the vast improvement that was achieved. Left: There was also time to clear and relay the treads on the access path.
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Left & Below: Another before and after view indicating the amount of work that was done.
Above: Ivy clearance is most important
Left: Clearance of the lock chambers using ‘Ebb’ ( or is it ‘Flow’). Both above: A working party can be quite energetic!
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A couple of very young Moorhens on the Glasson Arm by Thurnham Mill, 16th May.
Hello! The Lancaster Canal Trust extends a very warm welcome to the following new members and we hope to see you at some of our events: Mr. C. Rothwell Endmoor Mrs. D. Potts Sherburn in Elmet Mr. G. Jones Morecambe Mr. and Mrs. R. Arbon Burneston Mrs. J. Macarthur Bedale Mr. A. Kletz Ormskirk Mr. and Mrs. S. Marklew Barrow – inn – Furness Mr. S, Dent Radcliffe
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RESTORATION REPORT
Meeting with IWA Restoration Committee on 24 April 2010 In the last issue's Restoration Report mention was made of a meeting of the IWA Restoration Committee (ResCom) which we were to host in April. This meeting duly took place at Lane Farm, Crooklands, and was felt to be a great success and very instructive to the Trust in its efforts to become more proactive in restoration matters. Some 16 members of Rescom held their meeting alone during the morning after which several Trust members joined them for a buffet lunch. This allowed for much informal networking prior to a more formal presentation of the Trust’s aspirations using a PowerPoint presentation. The Rescom members were given some handouts prior to their visit including a copy of the information sheet printed opposite. From the question and answer session that followed many interesting points were developed some of which were:Planning We should keep any future works to as small an area as possible as planning fees are now based on area, “Certificate of Lawful Development” (aka "Certificate of Lawfulness") may be required even if planning permission is not . Extending (or raising) water levels could be construed as "impounding water" and permission might be required from EA by way of an empowerment licence though it is debatable whether you are impounding water if you are merely putting back water which was initially there. (Continued on page 24)
Walking to Wellheads Lane 22
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(Continued from page 22)
Environment Important at an early stage to undertake an environmental impact assessment - would help any subsequent planning application, i.e. to re-assure the Planning Officer that you were serious in your intent and to show that you have taken care to assess the environmental and architectural heritage issues from the outset. Any conservation management statement should cover principles for restoration and sustainability. Raising Water Levels Implications of the recently amended Reservoir Acts. If applicable, then a supervision engineer needs to inspect every 6/12 months. An inspecting engineer then needs to attend every 5 years. Possible difficulty is shortage of inspectors. Possible to trace existing leaks by change of vegetation along the line of canal (especially in dry weather). Need to take photographs before any work done. Check with Lancaster University (or other local academic institutions) for any LIDAR (Light Detection And Ranging) is an optical remote sensing technology that measures properties of scattered light to find range and/or other information of a distant target. It assists in looking for water presence from above. Land ownership Beware landowners' "fraud" in seeking compensation for damage from leakages (which were pre-existing !!!) or unrelated to canal. Consider a comprehensive photographic survey ahead of any works. After the meeting the trust arranged a walk from Stainton along to Wellheads Lane (about 12 members of ResCom attending). All were apparently well impressed with their day out. During the walk it was indicated that if there were otters in the canal it was likely there were voles in the banks. If so the integrity of the banks may be at risk. Best to check at an early stage. Try the local Wildlife Trust for background information. Noted that any stones removed from the site would attract landfill tax. Trust members all agreed it had been an extremely worthwhile exercise and were delighted to meet the ‘experts’. We are very much in IWA’s debt. TB
Members of the IWA RESCOM Committee with Trish, Helen, Mike Chris, Richard, Audrey Smith, Hal Bagot at Stainton before the walk to Wellheads Lane.
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Old Canal Thoughts - Long Ago & Far Away By Ian Dunn B.A., A.T.D. Near the tunnel at Hincaster, when there was water in the cutting, there were some stables on the north approach and here lived an old canal worker who was always good for a chat. He said that often he and his fellow workers used to pull piglets out of the water. These he said came from the slaughter houses on the edge of the canal basin in Kendal. They were obviously dead and were thrown into the water. The flow of water must have been considerable going south to the locks at Tewitfield to have carried them thus far. After the water was drained in the 1950’s we walked through the tunnel. You could see the workmanship of the builders from the eighteenth century and also the rope that went through the rings on the end of iron stakes driven into the walls. The rope was for pulling the boats through the water, the horses went over the hill to be reattached to the barges or packet boats and so history says the horses walked
Inside the tunnel -Hincaster
themselves the one mile over the hill, but I think maybe not. A the bricks for the lining of the tunnel were made at Heversham, the clay was dug out, then put into moulds and fired. They made so many bricks that an auction was held after the completion of the tunnel to sell off the over-production. The mounds can still be seen where the excavation for the clay took place. When the canal held water I used to fish on the south end of the tunnel and throw my line in as far as possible. The perch that swam to my worms were pale and horrible looking so I soon gave that up and went to open water. Often, if you were quiet, a kingfisher sped past and perhaps if you were really lucky they might perch on a branch (Continued on page 26)
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(Continued from page 25)
near by. Once I went through the tunnel, begging a lift from a maintenance boat (it is amazing what you can do with a sketch book under your arm). It was most irregular of course. It was quite dark in the middle and with dripping water and green coated lichen on the walls. Never any sunshine and the echo, it seemed, of voices long gone. It was a most unwelcome place and the rumble of the trains going over the south exit added to the atmosphere. The packet boats probably had some form of illumination and I have painted a picture to show how it may have looked in the gloom of the tunnel. The barges I don't think would bother with any form of light. The man from the stables told me that he understood the packet boats stopped before they went into the tunnel and took on passengers from Hincaster and the surrounding area. I suppose it would give the horses time to get to the other end and then be harnessed to the boats when they arrived. I.Dunn
Taking on Passengers at Hincaster, Western End
Ian tells me that he had to alter this picture into the more usual one seen with a fictitious horse going up an inserted horsepath, as people thought it not right to leave out a reference to such a important item. (see inset) 26
Anatomy of an Engine Or Why the Trust is very grateful to Neil McGarry Left: The old engine ready for overhaul
Above: Gear box removed
Above: Drive spigot and flywheel removed from the engine Above: Flywheel end bearing and seal housing removed
Above: New felt seal for seal housing Right: Repaired oil pipe for rear bearing as fitted
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Left: New ring gear fitted, old alongside
Above: Repaired drive peg as fitted
Above: Checking injector spray pattern and breaking pressure. Both good. Above: Timing side oil seal replaced
Above: Resetting valve clearances Right: Cleaned air filter 28
Right: A new fuel filter Below: Fully assembled & painted in primer
Right: The finished job! A tribute to Neil's dedication and all as a volunteer!
ANSWER TO BRIDGES WORD SEARCH Page 13
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B
canal construction costs, water supply, and future maintenance and ownership of canal head which in parts still lies with Gilkes. BW has shared construction costs and some guidance with regards to water supply, and we are waiting for further communication from Gilkes representatives. British Waterways and LCRP are committed to working with Gilkes as much as possible to achieve the aim of beginning restoration works During the life of the scheme, a significant investment has been made by LCRP towards the production of a wealth of feasibility work, and the work completed to date by the specialist consultant Arup is being reviewed by BW’s own technical experts. It is anticipated that more work will be required on this review once we have received responses from the EA and NE. Arup’s original commission from the LCRP included the completion of the planning permission documentation, however the emergence of the Gilkes scheme means that there is still a decision to be made as to how two separate planning applications can be coordinated to the benefit of all parties. Further talks with Gilkes will be held in the near future once their community consultation exercise has taken place in May. SH.
ritish Waterways
Update...
S
ince the turn of the year, British Waterways have been working with the relevant statutory bodies and stakeholders in order to progress the plans for the restoration of Canal Head and the regeneration of Kendal. As a vital partner for the restoration of the Northern Reaches, we have met key representatives from the Environment Agency to introduce the new BW staff members who would now be dealing with the project, and also to discuss the outstanding issues of the habitats regulations and appropriate assessments for the site. These discussions are ongoing, and we hope to come to an agreement on a way forward in the not to distant future. Similar discussions have also been held with Natural England who are a statutory consultee on any forthcoming application in a similar manner to the Environment Agency. A meeting was recently held between BW and Natural England to discuss the relevant issues. We expect that Natural England will work with the Environment Agency to co-ordinate a joint response to our enquiries, and we are hoping to receive a positive outcome soon. In early 2010, it was agreed between members of the LCRP that we should work with Gilkes to assist them with their own plans for the site, as we share similar visions for Canal Head. Since then, BW has been approached by Charles Crewdson of Gilkes over the issue of
(see Gilks article that follows. ED)
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Public Consultation on Gilks Development Proposals at Canal Head Kendal As mentioned in the BW Update the community consultation, arranged by Messrs Gilks in support of their plans to develop Canal Head to their own specification, took place in their foundry works during the week commencing 10th May. I and several Trust members attended the Exhibition and were rather impressed at the detail that Gilks had developed and the chance this gave to the town to move forward. In discussion with Charles Crewdson, (Chairman of Gilbert Gilkes and Gordon), he volunteered the following points. He had felt somewhat sidelined by the LCRP scheme for Phase I from Canal Head to Natland (led by SLDC/ BW), although they were a major landowner of the site. Also, having been turned down for planning on two applications to rebuild a more efficient factory on the outskirts of Kendal, Gilks now feel there is no alternative, if they are to retain a presence and therefore jobs in Kendal, but to try to relocate to a new purpose built factory and offices at Canal Head itself. They are to submit a planning application for most of the site down to Castle Bridge. They hope to reach an amicable solution with BW/SLDC in line with the LCRP’s proposals but, if not, and with no Area Action Plan yet in sight of being ratified,
they may have to go ahead alone. Within the proposals are the provision of a length of Canal down to Castle Bridge, following the exact line of the old canal bed. It will be built to full standards but they expect it to be adopted by BW or others re maintenance. In addition they will fund a new vehicle road bridge across the Kent from New Road. There will be some underground car parking to cater for customers of the new supermarket which will be the main source of finance for this development. Which supermarket is still not known. Provision exists to build affordable housing but this will need to be financed by others. Gilks have attempted to retain many of the features of the area, The old chimney will be retained as will the existing old entrance arches and ticket office. A view has been preserved from the existing bridge over the Kent and up to the Castle and open spaces both for recreation and for the allotments are provided. To many in the Trust who have seen it, as well as members of the Kendal Civic Society, this appears to be a reasonably acceptable solution and hopefully will galvanise officialdom into action as they cannot ignore a planning application. Without Gilks co-operation it is clear that unless Gilks give up and go we will never get a Canal Head development for some considerable time. Could we be seeing the diggers in by 2012? Mr. Crewdson hopes so. DC (continued on page 28)
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(continued from page 27)
Canal Aspects
New Superstore
New road bridge from New Road
New Gilks Factory and Offices
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(Continued from page 4)
make known their expertise and experience in all sorts of areas that can be directed towards the task of running the Trust and achieving the restoration project. Please don’t hide your light under a bushel; contact any one of the committee members listed on the back pages. You don’t necessarily have to join a committee (though more support in that area will be very welcome, speak up in time for the AGM!). You don’t have to be physical or attend working parties. Practical help can come in various guises but unless we know what you can do we cannot make the best use of that great resource that is out there – the Trust’s own members. RT
THE LANCASTER CANAL
(Continued from page 16)
you haven’t had the details, and you fancy helping us out, then please let me know and I’ll keep you informed when we have so mething specific planned. I’d just like to finish by thanking all those who have helped out on the working parties during the last season, no matter how small the contribution. I look forward to seeing you all again for what should be an interesting and varied programme of works next time. Paul Shaw 07866 803351
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LANCASTER CANAL TRUST Officers and Committee May 2010 President
C.H.Bagot J.P. F.R.I.C.S.,D.L Vice - President
John Gavan Chairman
Richard Trevitt 2 Fern Bank, Lancaster. LAI 4TT (01524) 846303 Vice - Chairman
Helen Thomas 7 Bay View, Over Kellet, Carnforth, LA6 1DR (01524) 735504 Secretary
David Currington 12 Sedbergh Road Kendal LA9 6AD (01539) 732599 Treasurer
Adrian Hughes “Ilex", Keasdale Road, Carr Bank, Milnthorpe LA7 7LH (01524) 761879 Membership Secretary
Adrian Hughes “Ilex", Keasdale Road, Carr Bank, Milnthorpe LA7 7LH (01524) 761879 Public Relations Officer
Trisha Buzzard 07802438412 Waterwitch Editor
David Currington 12 Sedbergh Road Kendal LA9 6AD (01539) 732599 Working Party Organiser
David Currington 12 Sedbergh Road Kendal LA9 6AD (01539) 732599 Grants Officer
Chris Jones Apt 305, Liberty House, Yard 5, Highgate, Kendal, Cumbria LA9 4BU 07816 874563
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EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBERS & OTHER TRUST OFFICERS Trisha Buzzard 07802438412 Publicity Officer & Trip Boat Committee
Fran Valiant Chairman Recruitment & Promotions (01943) 430494
Alan Mather Trip Boat Committee 07730 260003
Paul Shaw Working Party Supervisor 07866 803351
Sandra Henstock (L.C.B.C. Representative) (01253)764171
Frank Chalmers Boat Operations Manager 07973113046
Affiliated Members Arlen Hire Boats Australian Canal Society Beetham Parish Council Burton - in - Kendal Parish Council Bury & District Anglers Association Catterall Parish Council C.A.R.P. Ltd Holme Parish Council Lancaster Canal Boat Club
Kendal Civic Society Natland Parish Council Newton with Clifton Parish Council Preston Patrick Parish Council Ramblers Association (Preston Area) South Lakeland District Council Westmorland & North Lancashire Long Distance Walkers Assoc
Waterwitch is copyright 2010, published by The Lancaster Canal Trust (Registered Charity No. 240957) c/o David Currington, 12 Sedbergh Road, Kendal, LA9 6AD The Lancaster Canal Trust may not agree with the opinions expressed in this magazine but encourages publication as a matter of interest. Nothing printed may be construed as policy, or an official announcement, unless so stated - otherwise the Trust accepts no liability for any matter in the magazine. The editor retains the right to edit any article or letter submitted for publication.
Visit LCT website at:
http://www.lancastercanaltrust.org.uk/
The deadline for contributions to the next edition of Waterwitch will be August 31th 2010 Contributions may be e-mailed to dadcurrington@hotmail.com Or by post to David Currington 12 Sedbergh Road Kendal, Cumbria LA9 6AD Printed by Kent Valley Colour Printers, Kendal. (01539)741344
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Down Memory Lane
Above: The Old Lock Cottage, Tewitfield Below: The now demolished Caton Road Aqueduct On the road north out of Lancaster.
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