Number 147
Autumn 2011 Edition
WATERWITCH MAGAZINE OF THE LANCASTER CANAL TRUST
Another Milestone for the Lancaster Canal Trust
The Lancaster Canal Trust (Registered Charity No.240957) Affiliated to the Inland Waterways Association http://www.lancastercanaltrust.org.uk/
YOUNG CUMBRIA our Boat Operations Manager, has often thought would be very useful for extended charted trips, conveying materials to working parties etc., but it never rose to the top of our ‘things to do next’ list. Such a scheme would be ideal, they would start with a plain canal bank and finish with a very useful jetty. They would have a visible sense of achievement, This idea proved very acceptable and so it was that on the Tuesday following Bank Holiday seven young, people both lads and lassies, arrived in their minibus to start work. The Trust provided qualified members to oversee the work alongside the leaders sent from young Cumbria. At this point we must thank Richard for all his design work and for Alan Mather, & Trevor Cotton for their assistance in this work. Richard Trevitt had designed the jetty which was to be built in reclaimed ‘plastic wood.’ British Waterways generously provided the bulk of the material and the Trust made up the difference. Some people were assigned to cutting the various lengths, pile driving the posts into the canal bed and bolting on the different bracing struts to give rigidity. As we did not allow the use of powered tools other than a battery drill it was not easy work. In the event we finished up
In the summer we were contacted by Ruth Hughes the Administrator for Young Cumbria. Who are they, you might ask? And so did we. Ruth told us that “In the School holidays in summer they run a National Citizen Service Scheme aimed at young people who have finished year 11 (ie 16 year olds), and it is designed to help promote a sense of community spirit and ownership and also to help foster a sense of responsibility for the community, its people, and the environment.” In our case Ruth wondered if the Trust could offer a task that their young volunteers might tackle in an allocated four day period during August Bank Holiday week. After some thought we asked if they might be able to construct a small landing stage at the end of the remaindered section of Canal at Stainton. This is something that Alan,
(Continued on page 11)
2
Contents
Young Cumbria Letter from the Editor Chairman's Report Peter Thomas Obituary Ollie Geere Obituary Boat Operation Manger’s Report Summer Events Round Up Working Party Report Our 2010 Odyssey From Stainton to London Bridge by Kayak Whych Way to Ripon British Waterways Update LCT Constitution British Rowing Tour 2011 Hello Spanish Ladies! 100 club Results Young Cumbria picture gallery
2 3 4 5 6 7 8 13 17 23 24 27 29 33 35 36 37 rear cover
Again, welcome to all our members whether new or old. Now that we are only producing an edition every four months instead of three and with the many activities that have occurred during our so called summer, this edition is packed even at forty pages. It is gratifying to receive several articles from members and others who have travelled the canal with their own craft whether canal boat, kayak or rowing boat. The working party people have been very busy as have those members who have fully supported the recruitment and promotion activities of the Trust. In particular we wish to thank the time and organisation put in by both Richard Trevitt and Beryl Bowcott. There is much organising to do even before these events/activities take place. We had a successful AGM and, as requested, our full Trust Constitution is reproduced. Two unusual events this year a septuagenarian kayaking from Stainton to London, and the Annual British Rowing Tour along the navigable length of the Lancaster Canal. It is sad to have to include news of the death of three members, two of whom were very active in the Trust over many years. I refer to both Peter Thomas and Ollie Geere. I will say no more as the obituaries tell it much better. It is possible that Helen Thomas and the Trust will celebrate Peter’s life by having some young larch trees planted to replace those recently lost and others that are going the same way. I do hope you enjoy this edition of Waterwitch. David Currington Editor Front cover: The long lost mile post at Stainton discovered by Trevor Cotton during preparations for the Stainton Bridge working party. 3
Chairman’s Report Unfortunately the wet weather and the level and flow of Stainton Beck meant that we had to postpone the intended underpinning work on Stainton Aqueduct. A delegation from Lancaster Canal Restoration Partnership has been engaged in a series of meetings with South Lakeland District Council and Messrs Gilkes concerning the Canal Head site in Kendal, the purpose being to ensure the compatibility of the LCRP planning application for the canal head basin and Gilkes own application for redevelopment of their existing canal head site, including factory, supermarket, offices & housing. If the two applications are submitted with a conflict between them, either or both will fail to get approval and it is widely acknowledged that, for the benefit of Kendal, both should succeed. This new canal head will hopefully be the catalyst for 14 miles of canal regeneration. There will be consultation with interested parties and the public at large in the near future. On wider issues the Trust is enjoying a high profile, with the website attracting a lot of attention. BBC’s programme makers made contact via this route for help with two new series on ‘Great Railway Journeys’ and ‘Britain at Risk’. Look out for them early next year. Requests for speakers often come via the website, including for a local history conference in Preston and for the Cumbria Branch of the Institution of Civil Engineers. Our response to the public consultation on the proposed Heysham – M6 link road specifically focussed on the canal crossing between bridges 111 and 112 and I am pleased to report that our comments have been adopted by Lancashire County Council.. Now read on… Richard Trevitt
The past few months have seen a lot of activity on several fronts, much of which you will read about in greater detail further on in this edition. Our usual summer season of shows and events has been as busy as ever, although the weather has somewhat limited the number of people we have been able to reach. Next year will see a different spread of shows, with no IWA National Festival (because of the Olympics) but with Preston Guild giving us a major local event. Two somewhat unusual waterborne events took place on the Lancaster Canal. In May & June Peter Woolsey canoed from Stainton to Preston and onward through the canal network to London, recreating the trip he did as a teenager in 1958. Then in September British Rowing held their 18th annual tour here, with 15 crews rowing from Preston to Tewitfield over three days. It was great to see these different activities taking place on our home waters. The development work at Lune Aqueduct got under way in mid August with the aid of the £1M grant from Heritage Lottery Fund. Work started on the construction of the new ramp connecting the towpath and the riverside path, as well as the improvement of the existing steps. November and December will see a navigation stoppage to facilitate the piling of the banks on the embankment between the river and Caton Road. Our restoration activities focussed on Stainton Crossing Bridge (172) where the parapet wall was dismantled and rebuilt to get rid of the tree roots which were causing its progressive collapse. The joint LCT/Waterway Recovery Group working party in September involved more than 30 people, 19 of them Trust members, producing 80 volunteerdays of work over the four day weekend project. 4
Dr. Peter Thomas (1939 – 2011) Although Peter was not a member of any of the Committees of the Trust he spent many hours working on its behalf, particularly as a member of the trip boat operat in g team. As a talented photographer he built up a large portfolio of photographs of the Lancaster Canal and other canals throughout the country. Some of these photographs gained national recognition through inclusion in many publications. He spent hours scanning these and other members' photos into his computer to provide the Trust with a valuable source of images that are used today as an important element of selling the restoration of the canal through our talks programme. One of his most important contributions to the Trust was the production of the Virtual Cruise - a video presentation showing a narrowboat cruising the Northern Reaches, portraying the change from dereliction to cruising waters. A dedicated family man Peter was always kind, courteous and willing to help whatever the problem. Perhaps his most lasting legacy is the plaque he
designed to help promote the restoration of the canal, a project which took him a matter of minutes but so vividly portrays the canal, blocked by the motorway, winding its way northwards towards the Lakeland fells in the background. Today there are many boats on the canal system carrying a little piece of Peter Thomas. He will be sorely missed by his friends and the members of The Lancaster Canal Trust. PC
Legacy Miss Edna Sibbert of Longridge, formerly of Fulwood Preston, joined our Trust in 1988 and became a life member in 1997. Miss Sibbert unfortunately passed away several months ago but she graciously left the Trust a legacy of ÂŁ3091.27 in her Will. The Trust has written to thank the Executors for this generous act and to express condolences. The money will be used to further our restoration activities DC 5
Oliver Geere - 1928 - 2011 tickets and were generally rewarded for their generosity. They were never able to stay long enough to collect their prize personally and this provided the perfect excuse for Pat and Gordon Clapham to drive over to Ulverston to deliver it and have a good natter.
This name may not mean much to the majority of members but to those of us who are part of the ‘dirty weekend’ brigade he was our ‘Ollie’. I can’t remember exactly when he first appeared at a working party; he was by no means a young man then, but the amount of work he got through would put those much younger to shame. He always enjoyed his days out but perhaps his favourite was the first working party of the New Year when it was not unknown for the attendees to celebrate the event with a wee dram of a beverage distilled from malted barley and Scottish water – purely for medicinal purposes of course! However, he will be most remembered for his efforts to ensure that the area around the stables at Crooklands was always kept tidy during the trip boat operating season, sometimes travelling from his home in Ulverston a couple of times a week to undertake this work, often with the assistance of Don Cook. Though he never worked on the boat he was as much a part of the trip boat operating team as any of the crew and it was always a pleasure to see Ollie and his wife, Nell at the celebrations at the end of season. Ollie and Nell supported the Trust whenever they could and they were always to be seen at the coffee mornings where they always purchased a goodly number of raffle
Ollie was one of life’s gentlemen, always willing to help anyone with anything and he has enriched the lives of those who had the pleasure to know him. He often said how he dreamt of the day when the canal would be reopened to Kendal but always added “but I don’t think it will be in my lifetime.” How I wish we could have done more to make his dream come true. He will be sadly missed. David Slater
6
Boat Operation Manager’s Report The boat is running well apart from increased fuel consumption mainly due to increasing shallowness of the canal. The previously mentioned loose rudder shaft has been inspected by Neil and will be attended to at the end of season, it may be necessary to employ a Mobile Welder. Passenger numbers are down due to poor weather of late. This year we are running the boat for 5 consecutive Saturdays from 6th August, up to now passenger numbers have been low but the donations per passenger and table sales much higher than Sundays. Over £40 on Saturday August 20th from 2 trips and only 4 passengers. The boat will be carrying building materials from Millness yard for the Stainton Landing Stage project and the September Working parties weekend. Not a good year for Charters, up to now, 3 cancellations. I am pleased to report that the skill level of this year’s new skippers continues to improve. There have been no accidents or near misses. We have one new trainee who has had a day with the boat crew, he is a skilled boat handler & has several RYA qualifications and a safe, sensible outlook I am confident he will make an excellent skipper. A further trainee is scheduled to have his boat experience day in September. It is my intention to recruit a few more 7
trainees and to have an assessment in June 2012. Peter Simmonds has again volunteered to help with training. Training will commence in April 2012. The tree by the stable needs pruning, I am concerned that Autumn gales may cause the lower branches to damage the Stables roof. Between the winding hole and Stainton on the off side there are several trees with low overhanging branches that are a danger to navigation & these have now been pruned with the help of Trevor Cotton. The H&S Policy Statement has been prominently displayed on the pillar in the Stables. There was concern over the the soft ground in the Stables area allowing chairs and their occupants to fall over backwards. This problem has now been addressed. A good boat clerk is the first step to a successful days boating, canal promotion, table sales and record keeping. So a big thank you Sue Dixon, Olive Hill and Carol Hannigan. I intend to recruit two more clerks. AM 21st October The Boaters’ Dinner, Crooklands Hotel The Trust’s dedicated number for booking charters is 07961929102
Summer Events Round This apology for a summer has seen a number of events attended by the Trust and usually made up of those active Trust members who enjoy a good day out! Yes, it really can be enjoyable. even in the rain. The following pages will bring all our members up to date, and who knows, those living near enough may wish to join in. Just contact Beryl via the web site, but there was not room for all and the Scorton Village Fair, and Westmorland Show, had to make way for other topics. Beryl acknowledges, with thanks, all the help received throughout the summer. ED Inland Waterways Association National Waterways Festival 2011 Shobnall Fields, Burton
S
forward so as not to clash with so many other events going on during the Bank Holiday. The show opened at lunch time on Friday and continued until Sunday afternoon. It was deemed to be a great success with over 25000 members of the public coming to have a look including more than 300 boats on display over a 3 mile length of canal. The Trust attended with information about our Restoration proposals for the Northern Reaches which created a lot of interest. We counted 208
mall but perfectly formed is the best way to describe our presence at the IWA National at the end of July this year. The Festival is usually held at the end of August, ie the bank holiday, but this year it was decided to bring it
(Continued on page 10)
8
CUMBRIA STEAM GATHERING An event the Trust has not taken its sales & information stand to for some years is the Cumbria Steam Gathering. Held over the last weekend of July it is arguably the largest event of its kind in the north west and despite its somewhat remote location on the shores of Morecambe Bay at Flookburgh, it always attracts large crowds and this year was no exception. LCT ‘HQ’ was again Alan’s caravan from where Sheila issued beverages, butties and cake at regular intervals to sustain the front line troops – Alan, Beryl, Sheila Slater and David, all of whom were kept busy by a steady stream of visitors most of whom showed a genuine interest in the work of the Trust and our restoration plans for the canal, whilst the sales table recorded the highest volume of sales of any of the events attended so far this year. And by the way membership forms kept disappearing off the leaflets table, we hope we will be able to recruit a healthy number of new members for the Trust whilst Alan was kept busy collecting signatures on our restoration petition. 9
(Continued on page 12)
The Inland Waterways Association reported The huge swell of support from boaters, volunteers, exhibitors and visitors has generated the most successful national festival for The Inland Waterways Association (IWA) since 2007. The Waterways Festival, staged in Burton upon Trent from 29th to 31st July, also enjoyed beautiful weather which was a welcome return after a run of mixed weather for the last four years. Latest figures from the festival organisers revealed: •Around 25,000 visitors attended the event over the three day period •360 boats moored along the Trent and Mersey canal – stretching 1.5 miles in either direction of the festival site. •A record breaking 28 historic boats were on show •350 camping units stayed on-site •250+ organisations exhibited - ranging from boat builders to local crafts people.
(Continued from page 8)
"interested" people who wanted to know all about what we were doing and we had a good attendance at the presentation theatre for our illustrated talk. Although we only recruited one new member - it was the Chairman of BW no less - so we felt justified in going for quality rather than quantity! We also took the opportunity to promote our plans for the IWA Campaign Festival which will be held over the August Bank holiday next year on the canal at Haslam Park in Preston to co-incide with the Preston Guild celebrations in 2012. Many thanks to John Acres and Mike and Fran Valiant who came to help with the stand and pass on the good word. Thanks also to Dave and Carol Hannigan for their help and congratulations to them for winning the award for the best decorated entry on the campsite ...TB
Westmorland County Show Crooklands 8th September 2011 fishing, etc. Our walking leaflets were very popular. Evidence that the trip boat was kept busy was provided by the gradually deepening mud bath on the route between stand and towpath. We were pleased to enrol four new members which helped to take the income for the day to £202 pounds which included a donation from the security guards who enjoyed Sheila's home made bacon butties. Many thanks to Alan (suffering after two accidents during the week) and Sheila, Phil, Chris, Trish (who battled on with badly injured ribs) Helen and Steve and Hazel. Beryl Bowcott
The weather forecast was very bad with the tail end of the American Hurricane en route, etc and so we set up on Wednesday afternoon with concerns that the marquees would not make it through the night. Luckily all was well except for water leaking through the join between the two marquees - I think we should have had umbrellas to issue to visitors to the stand! However, the day progressed fairly well. There were many visitors to the stand seeking information on all aspects of the canal from the situation in Preston to the progress with the northern reaches and the usual questions on walking, cycling, 10
COUNTRY FEST Crooklands June 2011 For those who missed this event it was cold, it was showery and it was very, very windy - but, otherwise a well organised, pleasant Country Show. A band of intrepid volunteers erected the three marquees (two adjoining Alan Mather's caravan and awning and the third near the gate to the towpath for use in manning the boat) on the Friday afternoon and early evening before the festival. After a stormy night for those in the caravan the morning found that the marquee had turned turtle in the night and quite a bit of water had been deposited in the main marquees and on the sales stall. Yet again we will have to check with
(Continued from page 2)
with a very sound framework but not quite enough time to fully fit the decking other than on a temporary basis. Everyone seemed to enjoy the work, especially putting on the chest waders and getting into the Canal itself. At the end of the final day Alan took them all on a short trip on our boat. The final touches were made the following week 11
the manufacturer of the marquees to see what can be done. The weather was so poor that we had few visitors over the two days. However, we did manage to recruit five useful new members (one poor unsuspecting father being bought a membership by his daughter for a Fathers' Day present!). Total takings were over ÂŁ100 despite the low numbers.
by a couple of the Working Party members from the Stainton Bridge event and once the vegetation has regrown we will have a very useful jetty to further our Trip Boat work and it will be very useful for all members of the general public to use to launch canoes/boats etc. Well done to Young Cumbria DC Photo gallery on the back cover
Preston Riversway Festival June 2011 Another wet morning on Saturday 16th July found your intrepid volunteers assembled on the side of Preston Dock setting up their marquees and trying to decide where the entrances should be to minimise wind and rain incursion and still be visible and welcoming to the visitors. All was eventually arranged but attendance was low due to the weather conditions. However, after lunch the rain stopped, the sun did its best to lift spirits despite a few more light showers and attendance improved. The events were mainly
(Continued from page 9)
Thanks are due to Alan & Sheila, Beryl and Sheila and David Slater for their help over the weekend and to Phil Molyneux and his wife for helping to set up on the Friday. Also to Sheila and David for ensuring that the gazebo damaged at the ‘Countryfest’ event was repaired in time for use at this event.
Top: The repaired Trust Gazebo Below: Beryl busy setting up for the event
12
musical and took place within a set up of marquees - outside there were boating competitions in the dock, various (mainly food) stalls and some "street theatre" on the dockside including a very funny pair of Viking Impersonators. The Trust managed to raise ÂŁ92 56, to enrol one new member and to talk to many Prestonians and other visitors about the canal. Trish's bucket (with sturdy spade) received donations towards the restoration project to be started on the northern end of the canal and the absence of the jet skiers was mourned by at least one member of the party! Thanks to David Slater, Ian and Leslie Treanor, Paul Shaw, Trish Buzzard, Doreen Britton and Dorothy Schofield. Beryl Bowcott
Working Party Report Ah! Fame at last; much of our efforts do seem to go unnoticed - but that may change in the near future Early in August during our mid-week working party at Stainton Crossing Bridge a team from the BBC came to film us in action for a nationwide series of programmes to go out early next year (BBC2 they think) called "Britain At Risk ...".
There are 13 programmes in the series and they are filming about 90 restoration projects - specifically those being undertaken by volunteers. So we may get our 5 minutes of glory after all. They filmed the Waterwitch coming up to the end of water at Stainton and then chatted to some of our working party members. It will be interesting to see what remains of 31/2 hours of filming by the time the editors have finished with us!!! The working party in question was undertaking preliminary work, such as vegetation clearance from the bridge (and needless to say, Beryl did her "special" job on the steps), in readiness for the following September working party when 13
Northwest WRG's came up to work on Stainton Crossing Bridge and Stainton Beck Aqueduct. All this in preparation for relining and re-watering the canal bed north of Stainton Crossing The planned tasks for the September work party originally included working on both the Stainton Crossing bridge and Stainton Aqueduct. Unfortunately the recent rainfall had already put the aqueduct work in doubt and an inspection on Thursday morning of Stainton Beck, which runs under the aqueduct, immediately ruled out any work on this structure as the water levels were too high and the flow too strong. This job will have to be re-scheduled for a future working party. However, the main task, and the most important one, was to take down the parapet of Stainton Crossing bridge in order to remove tree growth that had caused the stonework to become displaced and weakened. As it would have been unsafe on such a narrow bridge to carry out the works while it was still being used by motor t r a f f i c ,
(Continued on page 14)
Richardson, Groundwork Contractor of Ingleton, who worked with us on a similar project last year . Each stone was marked and stacked carefully so that it could be returned to its original position during the rebuilding stage. The bridge work party then attacked the rest of the stonework removing all the stones above sapling growth. Often roots were found which disappeared into adjacent stones so the work continued until all major trunk and roots had been uncovered and eradicated. Again all the stones were carefully marked and stacked so that it would be possible to rebuild them in more or less the same places. This work went on through rain and shine. During most of the morning the team laboured under heavy drizzle but during the Another preparatory task, and cost, was afternoon it to have scaffolding professionally erected brightened up to ensure the work could be carried out considerably. safely. The first task for the volunteers By the end of was to remove the heavy coping stones Friday th is which capped the parapet. These stones stage of the weigh far more than can be comfortably operation was or safely lifted even by several people and complete. The so a telehandler plus driver was very Waterway generously provided by James Recovery Group (WRG) volunteers then had to get themselves cleaned up ready to man (and woman) the Lancaster Canal Trust float in the Kendal Torchlight Carnival in the evening. Saturday dawned warm and dry, which was important as the rebuilding has to be to heritage standards using lime mortar. (Continued from page 13)
preparation for this activity was both long and costly . Early on the Trust had to submit an application to Cumbria County Council for a road closure which not only required payment for the necessary public notices, but also an administration fee. We also had to engage a contractor to deploy diversion signs for road users who would normally have used the bridge.
(Continued on page 15)
14
(Continued from page 14)
A cement mixer was brought in to full use as bucket after bucket was taken up to the stone layers using a powered wheelbarrow. Progress was fast, despite a few squally showers that required the
work to be temporarily covered to prevent the lime mortar from being washed out. By early afternoon the wall was rebuilt to the level ready to take the coping stones. The only remaining task was pointing the stones on both sides of the wall. Sunday morning saw a concentrated effort to replace the heavy coping stones and get the wall secured ahead of the threatened severe weather moving in. With this task successfully completed and the copings adjusted for a smooth alignment over the curve of the wall, all the parapet was pointed on both sides. Protective sheeting was placed and securely tied down to keep the rain out. On Monday all that remained was to brush up the pointing, clean up the site and all our equipment and to stand back with a cup of tea and admire our weekend’s work. Not everyone was employed working on the bridge parapet. Several also worked on the other side of the bridge removing as much tree growth and other pernicious vegetation from the stonework as possible. There was also a bonfire party dealing with burning the remains of the tree that was cut down in August. All the large logs had already been removed for use in the winter on house fires, but the small stuff was reduced to ash. Another job was the finishing off of the landing stage built the previous week by a group of 16/17 year old volunteers from Young Cumbria. (See Article on page). Unfortunately they did not have the time to complete the decking although the (Continued on page 16)
15
(Continued from page 15)
posts were driven into the canal bed and the cross bracing and support beams were solidly constructed. A small team therefore completed putting the decking planks and edging strips onto the frame. Trevor Cotton also made an interesting re-discovery of a milestone. (See front cover). He had noticed the stone during the August work party but it was mostly buried in the bank. He had checked the Ordnance Survey map of the area and it did show a milestone at this location, it had just got lost in the bank through ground slip and vegetation growth. Mike Valiant, Trisha Buzzard &
Future working party plans include a revisit to Stainton on 9th October, a canal clean up in Preston on 13th November as a start to Preston Guild Canal Festival. preparations
16
PRESTON GUILD 2012 Plans are underway for a water based event at Haslam Park in conjunction with the Preston Guild celebrations next year (2012). A joint committee has been formed to include representatives of the Trust, IWA, the L C B C, ACE, Friends of Haslam Park and Preston City Council. It is likely the event will be held during the August Bank holiday to include an IWA Campaign Rally in the park area. Further details will become available during the next few months
An extract from an email the Editor received from Cath Davenport relating to the article on the Crooklands stables renovation in issue 146. “Hi David! Incidentally, I was amazed to see my old photos of Crooklands Stables resurrected in the last Waterwitch- Graham Robinson & Bill Wappett are pictured - the Mighty Man being the latter. These pictures were used in displays, at talks and at shows to illustrate what progress was being made - albeit in a small way.�
Have you thought of making a Will to include a legacy to The Lancaster Canal Trust ???? Such a legacy would provide a long lasting memory of your association with this beautiful part of Cumbria and Lancashire linking their history through the present and into the future. For further details please contact: Richard Trevitt Chairman LCT 2 Fern Bank Lancaster LA1 4TT (01524)846303 17
photos of stranded boats that hadn’t taken notice. He then told us to wait on the visitor mooring till the next morning when we would be leaving at about 11.00. At 11.30 no one had come so we set off for the lock to see what was happening (there are no moorings at the lock). They had been trying to ring us for ½ hour but none of us had a phone signal! We were told to leave the lock at
Our 2010 odyssey Following chats over the winter/spring 4 of us: - Gematice ll, Arthur Crossland, Sapphire and ourselves agreed to try the Ribble & Liverpool links. Both were booked as soon as the application forms were available. On the 13th. June we set off with our new dog Sky to meet up with the others at Salterforth for the start of our trip. On the 19th we all set off and spent the first night near bridge 115 where we found Kittiwake and Gala Day already moored. Time to catch up on gossip and news. When we reached the bottom of the 23 locks at Wigan the pound was very low. This was due to a breakdown at the
On the Douglas with Sapphire behind us. Quite wide here with good views.
The entrance to Savick Brook
speed and cross into the incoming tidal flow, then go flat out till we reached the next boatyard about 20 mins. away. The river then widens out so the flow is less but you need to maintain a good speed to reach the half tide gate up Savick The holding pontoons
pumping station, which lifts water from the river Douglas into the canal. Once we reached Crooke the level was ok. From here on the canal is much nicer, as is the Rufford branch and well worth a visit even if not doing the Ribble link. When we had moored at Tarleton the chaps went to look at the river and lock. Harry who lives nearby and assists BW came out to see us, then gave us our instructions for the crossing, showing us
Brook before it closes. Once the river widens there are good long distance (Continued on page 19)
18
(Continued from page 18)
views. As we reached the Asland Lamp, the junction with the river Ribble, we were on slack water. This soon changed to fighting the ebbing tide as we headed for Savick Brook. Part way Bernard rang Crossing the Lune aqueduct
ahead, then called us to say we only had 30 mins. left to reach the brook or we would have to proceed to Preston marina at ÂŁ12 per night. The entrance to Savick Brook looks quite narrow after the wide Ribble with little leeway when there is a strong push downstream from the tide. The BW chap waved us in so we had made it in time. Now for the half mile of twists and turns to reach the tide gate. Once through we headed for the holding pontoons to await the others. The last boat made it with just 5 mins. to spare. From here the brook is like a deep-sided Glasson Dock
ditch with some tight bends. At the locks it is best to be first or last as BW have to open and padlock the gates so you get help! Just below the final staircase of 3 locks is a rather shallow winding hole and it is easier for longer boats to enter the lock backwards as most did. At the top is a nice basin but we were told it was better to go up the Lancaster a short way to moor overnight as the boats going down next day need to be at the top of the locks. The Lancaster is a nice lock free canal but rather shallow in many places including some moorings. Garstang is one exception with lots of wide towpath mooring with rings. Ideal for BBQs and Leaving Tewitfield
sitting out with a drink. Across the canal is a nice pub with good food and a short walk takes you into town with lots of shops. At Galgate (the top of the Glasson arm) is another long stretch of mooring with nearby pubs, a small supermarket and a chippy. Lancaster has moorings but the ones outside the pub get noisy. Carnforth has a few handy for the large Tesco. At Tewitfield, the head of navigation, there are a few shallow moorings more suited to cruisers. We turned and moored about Âź mile back, then walked up to explore the locks above. (Continued on page 20)
19
wind the lock keepers arrived to take 6 boats down to lock 8 to wait for the ‘all clear’. It didn’t come, so we all headed back up seven locks to the basin. We were told to be ready at 8.00 next day and headed down again in what seemed like an even stronger wind. They assured us it often dropped as the tide turned. No such luck, but at least they let us stay above the lock with a warning to beware, as the lock would be flooded once the tide came in. Next day the next batch of boats came down to join us making 14 in On our return south we moored at Hest total. At 12 noon they moved us down to Bank the nearest access to the coast, just a short stroll down the hill. After walking Some of the 14 boats packed on the pontoons the dogs on the beach it was decided to do a repeat next morning and follow it with full English breakfast at the small ‘Bay Crossing’ café. This is one of the spots where you can start a guided walk across Morecambe Bay. On our return to Lancaster the party split up and we did the castle tour with its two working courthouses and still used prison. We all met up again at Galgate to go down the 6 locks into Glasson Dock. At the holding pontoons above the tide gate the end is a still working sea lock. Next even though the wind had not dropped. morning we were woken by the sound of slapping waves the boat rocking and Beware steam train ahead banging the wall. The gale force wind crossing the wide-open waters was sending waves, which crashed against the walls splashing water and dirty foam up the boat sides. Later as it cleared up some of us enjoyed a good fish and chip lunch at the café and then booked an evening meal for us all at ‘The Dalton Arms’. Just behind here is the Smokery with all sorts of goodies. Returning south we completed the We were assured we could cross the Lancaster by cruising the stretch into Link. Preston, winding then heading for the As the hooter sounded we all set off basin at the top of Savick Brook. some with difficulty as they were stuck on Next morning at 8.30 in a very strong the mud until the first tide surge arrived. Waiting at the top of Savick Brook
20
We had heard the L & L was closing so,
(Continued from page 20)
On reaching the tide gate we were told it was no longer safe to cross and to head for Preston. On arrival there it was chaos with 14 boats on the outside and only 3 or 4 chains on the walls to hang on to while we waited for the bridge to open and let us into the marina. The wait was due to the steam train just beating us to it! Finally we went in to find only a short mooring as the main visitor one was reserved for boats attending the waterway festival the following weekend. They normally charge but as BW had sent us they had to pay. The marina is very nice with many shops etc. alongside. Next day with light winds we were told it was safe to cross. So we all packed into the sea lock to await the correct tide level. On leaving we had to stay to Lock 5 with a cruise ship in the background
Into the first of the docks in Liverpool
Gematice and ourselves agreed to continue while the others returned to Skipton. Due to the delay we had missed our booking into Liverpool but, as it was not our fault, BW agreed to re book us. However, it meant staying for 16 days instead of the original 3. The canal into Liverpool had good views, little litter and no trouble. We met the BW men at bridge 9 which they operate as it is a busy commuter route. Then again at the One man and his dog taking it easy in Liverpool
the left to miss a sand bank until we reached the end of the dock wall, then cross to the right or the tide would try to sweep us upstream. One boat stayed too far left and had to go back into the marina, as he didn’t have enough power to get across the tide surge. The crossing was great and as we stemmed the tide at Tarleton I was amazed how quickly BW could turn round the lock to get us all through. (Only 2 boats per locking). 21
top of the 6 locks dropping us down into the docks. After the first 4 we were into the docks and told to follow the marked channel to lock 5, from where we went through two tunnels (one under the new museum) to reach the final lock. Once through, we (Continued on page 22)
(Continued from page 21)
cruised round the corner, through Albert dock into Salthouse dock and to our allocated moorings. We were glad of the extra days, as there was so much to see and do in Liverpool with museums, cathedrals, The Echo arena, the big wheel, city tours by bus or One of the water ducks
water ducks (see photo), nearby Crosby with Anthony Gormley’s 100 statues set in the sands (go as the tide comes in and see them disappear under the waves), two tunnel trips (one the Mersey road tunnel, evenings only, the other Williamson’s tunnels), the city shops and entertainment plus, of course, the Mersey itself. While we were here we had a visit by the latest Cunard liner ‘The Queen Victoria’. As it left they had a fantastic firework display. After Liverpool we retraced our route along the L & L through the bottom of the Wigan flight and on to Lymm. The Turkish restaurant there is great, particularly the mixed platters for two. At Anderton we booked to go down the lift onto the Weaver the next day. Later we had a BBQ on the banking; unfortunately Geoff slipped and twisted his foot. He insisted on continuing, so, with Marilyn steering, off we went, visiting Northwich and cruising into the flashes beyond the end of BW ‘s limit for navigation. It’s safe as long as you keep to the right and turn round
the red buoy by the sailing clubhouse. When we reached Saltersford lock Marilyn rang for a taxi but he could not find us. A very obliging man who lives here took Geoff to hospital and brought him back bandaged and with an appointment for an X ray. We completed the Weaver and came back up for the X ray. (Nothing broken, so they said and with a new bandage). At Great Haywood we left the boats in a marina to come home for John & Mandy’s party. What a surprise to find they had been married that morning!! While back home Geoff had another X ray and scan, which found a broken bone in his foot. With that they extended their marina booking to give him time to recover. So, we headed down to Fradley and Alrewas where we met Bill & Judy (Speckled Hen). We cruised back with them to their new mooring at Shrobnall. From here I rang BW to find out about the situation on the L & L. The lady who answered said she thought it was open but as I wanted to be certain she put me through to customer services, who could only tell me what it said on waterscape; again no certainty. By this time I was quite irate and eventually she gave me the mobile number for the L & L maintenance manager. He was able to give me the information I needed, but was not happy that his number had been given out to a boater! On arrival at Clarence dock, I rang him again but he did not answer. However, I later had a call from the man in charge of the lock keepers to say we could proceed but to expect some delays. I had also rung customer services again who, after checking (ha! ha!) said the stretch from Leeds to Skipton was open as normal. Arriving at Office lock at 9.30 we found
22
(Continued on page 26)
How to Celebrate your 70th From Stainton to London Bridge by Kayak Peter Woolsey To see canals naturally, try kayaking. To see England pretty much from end to end try kayaking too. I left Kendal on May 28 and canoed to London in 16 days, repeating a canoe trip I did in 1958. Paddling a kayak or canoe is quiet. You see much more wild life. The Lancaster canal is rural and has no locks. The Leeds & Liverpool is unspoiled but b e c o m e s industrial near to Wigan. The Bridgewater canal is surprisingly rural especially after Lymm. My whole trip was against headwinds, especially along the Trent & Mersey. Swans with cygnets were often a nuisance, even attacking my 16 foot P&H Cetus kayak. After Stafford the Trent & Mersey becomes rural but there are many locks. I portaged locks by strapping on a trolley. Whilst paddling my trolley was fixed on the aft deck. I continued along the Coventry canal, which is more industrial, to join the Oxford canal which is another contour canal, it winds around beautiful countryside. The local IWA people were a great help. IWA Chairman Clive kindly met me. We discussed how people of any age could canoe Britain’s canals; I’m 23
Hilmorton, Oxford Canal
A mere speck passing Battersea Power Stn, London
Finish in London
now seventy. At Oxford I joined the river Thames appreciating extensive views from the river valley. The upper reaches are less developed. I like the stretch from Wallingford to Maidenhead best. On June 12th I finally reached Westminster after 400 miles and 173 locks. Canoes and Kayaks can be hired. Buy a used one online for about £100. Anyone can learn to canoe with the British Canoe Union. See www.bcu.org Well done Peter, from all at the LCT . Ed
‘Whych Way’ to Ripon Another episode in the ‘Valiant’ journeys water-ski zone. Sure enough, rounding a quiet bend, we were confronted by a speed boat towing two skiers. They took evasive action but we were left bobbing about in their wake.
Our plan this year was to focus on the Trent and Mersey and its offshoots, timing our journey to arrive by the end of July at the IWA National Festival at Burton-on-Trent to assist on the LCT stand. Circumstances got in the way and our projected five months’ cruise shrank to just three weeks, with no hope of making the IWA show by boat. We decided instead to explore the Yorkshire Ouse, new water for us. Our goal was Ripon, only 45 minutes by car from our home in the Dales, but 9 days by water! We set off from Skipton along the now familiar route via the spectacular Bingley Five-Rise. Sharing locks with a Snaygill hire boat we had one of those weird encounters that sometimes happen on the waterways. The lady on the other boat turned out to be the Parish Council Secretary for the area in Devon where our sister-inlaw had just been appointed as the new vicar and knew of her imminent arrival. We plied our way down through the triple and double flights on the approach to Leeds and made it safely into Clarence Dock in teeming rain, mooring up outside the Royal Armouries. We had the huge Aire locks to ourselves all the way to Castleford. A sunny evening here saw us walking across the beautiful new bridge over the weir, featured in TV’s Big Town Plan shown on Channel 4 in July 2009. The scenery on the Aire and Calder was pleasant but unchanging, though we were startled at one point to discover that we were, so a large sign on the bank informed us, in a
Castleford’s new bridge
The Selby Canal was weedy and shallow and initially we had trouble mooring but we eventually found a spot near the swing bridge and reported to the lock keeper to book our slot for locking down onto the tidal Ouse next day. We were just in time to see a boat approaching from the river and pick up a few tips on how to escape from the tide’s clutches into the lock. Our 4pm departure booked, next day we explored Selby itself, with its Selby Market & Abbey
(Continued on page 25)
24
(Continued from page 24)
beautiful abbey and lively market. Coming out of Selby Lock, we motored swiftly along, our speed boosted by the incoming tide. Several cruisers passed us, one pointing out helpfully that we had a large log jammed across our bows. Hanging off the bow wielding a boat hook is not the ideal time for one’s mobile phone to ring! Arriving at Naburn there was a short queue for access to the lock off the tideway but we finally moored up on the scenic landing at 7pm for a celebratory sherry.
the banks. Moorings in York were limited but handy for a quick trip home by train. Back on board we left the city behind and moved into a pretty rural section. Herons escorted us past Beningborough Hall and Nun Monkton up to Boroughbridge. Limited mooring again, as always on rivers, but we secured a leafy spot on the staithe here. Through the
Moored in York on way to Ripon
End of Canal, Ripon Basin
remaining river locks onto the Ripon Canal next day, we cruised up to the basin and turned, mooring just short of the town centre with its imposing Minster. A late start due to heavy rain, and broken down boats on the moorings at Linton Lock, meant pressing on back to York. An evening arrival necessitated settling for the high walls of King’s Staithe. Within minutes of securing our ropes, a pub reveller jumped off the quay in the path of the trip boat. He suffered On the lock landing at Linton-on-Ouse lock
York Minster, evening sun
The approach to York was picturesque, with the majestic Bishop’s Palace a particular feature. Equally majestic were some of the “gin palace” cruisers lining 25
(Continued on page 26)
overnight stop at the pretty Woodlesford Lock preceded our return to Clarence Dock to meet up with friends and family. At Saltaire we had leisure to stroll through the cobbled streets and parks of the World Heritage site and we also saw what is claimed to be Britain’s oldest working tramway at Shipley Glen. We
(Continued from page 25)
no injuries but we were left bumping the stones alarmingly after the rescue boat sped past us creating a huge wake. City night sounds were muffled by our position below the quay and we enjoyed York’s retail opportunities before returning to Naburn in readiness for joining the tideway the following morning. On the final reach just before Selby a strong wind against the tide resulted in two foot waves; almost as high as our gunwales. We made it off tidal flow and into Selby Lock without mishap however, while the boat following us had to wait out on the river for the next locking. At Ferrybridge, we saw what the Back on a canal for final few miles
Waiting for dredger near Riddlesden
provided entertainment for gongoozlers on the Bingley flights and were happily delayed by much-needed dredging works at Riddlesden. 93 locks and 59 moveable bridges were our tally on arrival at Skipton after an enjoyable 22 days. Mike & Fran Valiant massive locks were designed for as an enormous gravel barge passed through with barely any room to spare. An the pound above only about half full, so I walked up to the top lock to find the lock keeper had been letting water down since 8.30 and guessed we might have enough depth by 11.00. At 11.30 he let us try and we managed with care and reached Skipton on the 13th Sept. just 3 months after starting out. I think at the start there was some doubts about a group of 4 boats getting along without disagreements, but with a laid
back, nobody as boss approach and sometimes splitting up to allow each to do their own thing, it worked and we would be happy to do it again. We hope our friends feel the same way. By the way, Sky likes to paddle but not to swim after several failed jumps to the bank and a couple of soakings, she is learning to look before leaping! Bill, Jenny & Sky N. B. Odysseus
26
B
ritish Waterways
interest in the project. David Hennessey, BW’s Lune Aqueduct Project Officer, described the project in detail during the trips. Engagement with schools is also progressing well, with Dallas Road School in particular showing a keen interest. The school has recently enjoyed 2 boat trips to the aqueduct and are using the Lancaster Canal and a key topic in next
Update...
From David Hennessey, Lune Aqueduct Project Officer The Lune Aqueduct restoration project is now gaining real momentum, with BW Contractors beginning work on site on 12th September. All tree works have been completed on the canal embankments, with works to take place over the winter period consisting of vegetation removal and masonry repairs to the facades of the aqueduct, replacement of the stolen and damaged balustrades, graffiti removal and access improvements focusing on the steps and the construction of the DDA compliant ramp along the south-western embankment, which will allow pedestrians, cyclist and other users to move comfortably between the canal towpath and Millennium cycleway.
year’s curriculum. Hennessey From Stephen Waterways.
David Higham,,
British
British Waterways remain on track to launch the new waterways charity in April 2012. Recent developments include the Waterways Minister, Richard Benyon, advised by an Independent Panel, appointing the Transition Trustees – three of whom were previous Board members and five of whom are entirely new, and who have particular experience of the voluntary sector. The final appointment is subject to the Council of Charity confirming the positions on vesting day. The Trustees will have the legal responsibility for
On the activities side, two Heritage Open Days took place on the 11th and 12th September, which were extremely well attended - 150 people enjoyed boat trips to the Aqueduct and there was a high level of
(Continued on page 28)
27
(Continued from page 27)
managing the Charity in line with its objectives and purposes. The Appointments Panel is about to start recruiting Council members. There will be 35 initially representing the various waterway interest groups. There will be a clear constituency, with elected Council members. For example boaters holding a waterway licence are a clearly defined group and will elect 4 Council members. Over time we aim to have 50% of Council members elected. Where there is an illdefined constituency, such as environmentalists, we will ask leading national bodies to nominate Council members. For example the National Trust will be a nominating body. The third group of Council members will be the Waterway Partnership Chairs. There will be 13 of these, representing Wales and the Waterway Units based in England. The Waterway Partnerships are an important addition to involve local communities in the responsibility and governance of their waterway. Currently there are three Waterway Partnerships covering the North West, the Midlands and the South. These are advisory and supportive 28
bodies but they will be involved in the Annual Plan for their region and will report to the Trustees on that plan. In addition, the 13 Chairs will be part of the National Council. Following detailed induction the Trustees will enter contract negotiations with government. This will not be easy but government and trustees all recognise that for this government initiative to succeed, then the Charity must have a viable financial plan. Legislation is necessary for this change in status and this is being handled within the Public Bodies Reform Bill. This is progressing through Parliament, including amendments to ensure the Charity has reasonable enforcement and access rights. Importantly, we are also about to announce the name of the Charity, together with its logo. Stephen Higham
Lancaster Canal Trust Constitution Agreed at the Annual General Meeting held on 24th June 2011 At the Annual General Meeting a Trust members asked if a copy of the current Lancaster Canal Trust’s Constitution could be placed in the next Waterwitch magazine. This was agreed by members and our current Constitution is therefore reproduced below. 1. Name The name of the Trust shall be the Lancaster Canal Trust 2. Objectives a) To promote the restoration to cruising standards of the unnavigable sections of the Canal, the retention of its essential character, and its development as a public amenity b) To stimulate and retain public interest in the navigable and unnavigable sections of the Lancaster Canal including the Millennium Ribble Link and the Preston City Link as essential environmental features of Lancashire & Cumbria. c) To pursue these ends by arranging physical works of repair and restoration, meetings, lectures, cruises and other similar events and by collaboration with other bodies pursuing similar aims. 3. Membership a) Membership shall be open to all in one of the following forms;(i) Personal membership of an individual. (ii) Family membership comprising both partners (or one adult in the case of a single parent family) and any children under 16 years of age.(iii) Affiliated membership of any organisation which has an interest in the Lancaster Canal and the furtherance of the objectives of the Trust. (iv) Life Membership. (v) The Executive Committee may also admit individuals who have rendered outstanding service to the objectives of the Lancaster Canal Trust to Honorary Life Membership and such persons being so admitted shall have the benefits of membership (including the right to vote) except that they shall not be liable for any debts or liabilities of the Lancaster Canal Trust. b) (i) Upon joining the Trust, new members shall be given a copy of the constitution. (ii) Membership will lapse if a subscription is not paid within six calendar months of the due date. 4. Subscriptions a) Subscriptions shall be set at a rate to be decided by the Executive Committee from time to time. b) Subscriptions shall become due on the first day of January each year. New Members joining after 1st September in any year shall have their membership extended to 31st (Continued on page 30)
29
(Continued from page 29)
December of the following year in which their membership started. c) Life Members shall pay a single premium, the amount of which shall be decided by the Executive Committee from time to time. 5. Annual General Meeting a) The Annual General Meeting shall be held not later than the last day of October each year. b) The Annual General Meeting shall receive a report from the Executive Committee and a report from the Treasurer, accompanied by a written statement of account. c) All members shall be given written notice of the date, time and venue of the Annual General Meeting through the Trust’s journal or by electronic means or otherwise, at least one calendar month before that date. The agenda for the meeting shall be circulated by post or by electronic means to all members ten clear days before the meeting and shall include;(i) The list of nominations for the Officers (other than the President, Vice-President(s), Chairman and Vice-Chairman of the Executive Committee) and Executive Committee members, submitted in accordance with Rule 8(b). (ii) Any motions under rule 12 for the alteration of the Constitution. d) Motions from Members to amend this Constitution in accordance with Rule 12(a) shall be submitted in writing to the Secretary at least fourteen clear days before the Annual General Meeting. No such business can be conducted to amend the Constitution without such period of notification. e) The Annual General meeting shall elect the Officers and Executive Committee of the Trust as indicated in paragraph 5(c) (i). f) Resolutions (other than those under rule 13) shall be carried by having a majority vote, the Chairman of the meeting having an additional casting vote. g) Seven personal members shall form a quorum. h) Each adult member of a Family membership shall carry one vote. Affiliated members shall carry one vote. Any person casting a vote on behalf of an affiliated organisation must have written authorisation of this organisation to so do. i) The AGM shall be chaired by the President but in his/her absence shall then be chaired by either the Chairman or Vice Chairman of the Executive Committee 6. Special General Meetings a) A Special General Meeting may be demanded by written resolution to the Hon. General Secretary stating the proposed agenda, signed by not less than ten voting members of the Trust, or by the Executive Committee. Such meetings shall be held within twenty eight days of receipt of such a resolution. b) Seven personal members shall form a quorum. 7. Officers and Committee a) The President and Vice-President(s) shall be nominated by the Executive Committee and approved by the Annual General Meeting. The term of office of the President & Vice President (s) shall not exceed three years from the date of election and they shall be eligible for reelection. They are not members of the Executive Committee or Trustees unless separately elected as such by the Executive Committee or AGM. b) The Officers of the Trust shall consist of a Chairman; Vice-Chairman; General Secretary; Treasurer; Public Relations Officer; Editor of the Journal; Membership Secretary; Working Party Organiser and Grants Officer. An individual Officer may hold more than one office. A representative of an affiliated organisation may not hold office. (Continued on page 31)
30
(Continued from page 30)
c) Officers and Committee Members (except as paragraph (d) below) shall cease to hold office, and those newly elected shall take office at the close of the Annual General Meeting at which their term of office ceases. (d) The Chairman, and Vice Chairman, shall be elected by the Executive at their first meeting following the AGM and shall continue in office until the first Executive meeting after the next AGM. (e)The Trustees of the Lancaster Canal Trust shall be the Officers and members of the Executive Committee. Co-opted Members to the Executive Committee to fill a vacancy shall also be Trustees. (f) Additional Co-opted Members of the Executive under rule 8(d) that is shall not be Trustees 8. Executive Committee a) The activities of the Trust shall be directed by the Executive Committee which shall comprise the Officers and up to fourteen personal or single family members. b) Written nominations, supported by a seconder, shall be in the Secretary's hands fourteen clear days before the AGM, the consent of the nominee having been obtained first. If nominations exceed vacancies, a ballot by show of hands will take place. c) A quorum shall comprise not less than 40% of the elected Executive Committee, but if there are insufficient members at a committee meeting to form a quorum, the proceedings may be ratified by the next meeting of the Executive Committee. No decision made at an inquorate meeting shall commit the Trust to the payment of money or to enter into a contract. d) The Executive Committee may co-opt not more than six members if they deem such cooption to be beneficial to the aims and objects of the Trust, such co-opted members to have voting rights on the Executive Committee only if they are personal, single family or life members. Such co-opted members shall relinquish their office each year, but may be reappointed by the Executive Committee, e) Resolutions shall be carried by a majority vote, the Chairman to have an additional casting vote, if required. f) Any vacancy amongst the Officers through death, resignation or any other cause may be filled by a resolution of the Executive Committee until the following Annual General Meeting either from its own members or a qualified member of the Trust. g) The Executive Committee shall be empowered annually to elect to the position of Consultant such a person as it considers fit to hold that position. The Consultant, who need not be a single family or individual member of the trust, is to be a non-voting member of the Executive. h) No member of the Executive Committee or Sub Committees shall be directly interested in the supply of goods or services to the Trust except on the basis which shows no profit or gain directly or indirectly to the member(s) concerned, provided this shall not prevent the payment of any reasonable out of pocket expenses. i) The Executive Committee shall approve the appointment of a person to inspect or audit the Accounts j) Affiliated bodies are entitled to nominate a representative to attend meetings of the Executive Committee. Such representatives may address the Executive Committee, but may not vote . (Continued on page 32)
31
9. Project Groups a) The Executive Committee is empowered to form from its own number and from co-opted non-executive members such project groups for particular purposes as it considers necessary. Such project group(s) may pass such recommendation(s) as deemed necessary, but any such recommendations are subject to approval by the full Executive Committee before they can be acted upon. 10. Sub-Committees a) The Executive Committee is empowered to appoint Sub Committees and to delegate responsibility for the implementation of policy to them. b) A Sub-Committee shall comprise not more than 12 or less than three paid up members of the Lancaster Canal Trust as defined under Rule 3. Such a Committee need not be elected by an Annual General Meeting provided that at least 2 members of a Sub-Committee are drawn from the Executive Committee elected at the Annual General Meeting. c) A Sub-Committee shall appoint a Chairman and Secretary from amongst its number. A Sub Committee may appoint a non executive Committee member as Chairman. A representative of an Affiliated Body shall not hold office. d) A quorum shall consist of 40% of the Sub-Committee membership. e) Sub-Committees may pass such resolutions as may be deemed necessary but any such resolutions are subject to approval by the Executive Committee before it is acted upon. f) The members of Sub Committees shall relinquish their office every year, but may be eligible for reappointment by the Executive Committee at its first meeting following the Annual General Meeting, g) In order to comply with Regulations as they may apply from time to time in the operation of a small passenger vessel, the Executive is empowered to appoint a Boat Operations Manager who must hold the necessary qualifications as may be specified within such Regulations, and who shall be responsible for ensuring that the Trust complies with each and every such regulation in respect of all its Boat Operations. The Boat Operations Manager does not need to be a member of the Executive Committee. 11. Finance The Executive Committee shall comply with their obligations under the Charities Acts 19932006 (or any statutory re-enactment or modification of the Act) with regard to;1. The keeping of accounting records for the Charity. 2. The preparation of annual statement of accounts for the Charity. 3. The auditing or independent examination of the statements of account of the Charity provided that a minimum of an independent examination is carried out. 4. The transmission of the statements of account of the Charity to the Commission. The Financial year of the Trust shall be from 1st April to 31st March 12. Amendments to the Constitution a) Amendments to the Constitution may be made by a General Meeting summoned under Rule 5 or Rule 6, provided that a motion of such amendment is presented by the Executive Committee or not less than ten paid up members and is approved by at least 75% of the members present and voting at such a meeting. b) No amendment or alterations to this constitution shall be made which will cause the Trust to cease to be recognised as a charitable organisation by the Charity Commissioners. 13. Dissolution Dissolution of the Trust shall be only by a resolution approved by at least 75% of the members present and voting at a General Meeting summoned under Rule 5 or Rule 6, and any residual
32
but there also were two Solent Galleys, a Dutch wherry and an Alden Double scull. The Canal boasts more than 130 bridges and eight aqueducts, and is also England’s longest stretch of canal with no locks. The highlight is the 664 feet long Lune Aqueduct, whose graceful arches tower 60 feet Seventy rowers took to the Lancaster over the river Lune. Further on Canal over the weekend of 2nd to 4th there are stunning views over September, taking part in the 18th Morecambe Bay. ‘We were rowing Annual British Rowing Tour. while looking down into the valley Organised by Weyfarers Rowing below on our port side - a unique Club, in association with Lancaster experience for most of us,’ said rower Steve Wragg. ‘We Chairman Richard Trevitt presents plaques to all the rowers were told the Lancaster Canal was going to be special,’ he added, ‘and it didn't disappoint. ’‘The British Rowing Tour really shows the quality and variety of our waterways. We parted full of praise for the organisers, and happy memories of a really delightful canal.’ Various challenges John O’Gaunt RC, the three-day tour awaited the rowers across the threecovered the entire navigable length day tour. To shoot the narrow of the canal from Preston to bridges the oars had to be shipped at Tewitfield. exactly the right time, and some Setting off from the University of narrow sections of the route needed Central Lancashire Sports Arena in to be negotiated with canoe paddles. Preston on Friday, 15 crews from 27 ‘Everyone coped very well,’ said tour rowing clubs went on to traverse the organiser John Turnbull. ‘It’s an 41-mile waterway, finishing in extremely scenic canal and we Tewitfield on Sunday. The majority of believe that this was the first time (Continued on page 34) the boats were stable, coxed quads
BRITISH ROWING TOUR 2011
33
(Continued from page 33)
that anyone has rowed the entire length in this type of boat.’ Richard Trevitt, Chairman of the Lancaster Canal Trust, presented each crew with a brass commemorative plaque at the end the tour lunch. ‘We were delighted to see so many Reaches in the future. The organisers are grateful to British Waterways, the Lancaster Canal Trust and Iain Taylor from Lancaster John O’Gaunt RC for their support and advice. John Turnbull
people enjoying our beautiful canal,’ he said. The Trust is working towards reopening the remaining 14 miles of canal to Kendal which are currently unnavigable, and Mr Trevitt hoped the rowers would return to explore the Northern
34
Hello! The Lancaster Canal Trust extends a very warm welcome to the following new members who have joined since the last issue of Waterwitch and we hope to see you at some of our events: Richard & Karen Holt Barnoldswick Gregory & Linda Clements Preston L Howard & P Cooper Carnforth Peter McAlpine Preston Christine Jelley Kendal Keith Turner Southport Roseanne Naeshagen Carnforth Alan Hill Kendal K Bradley Liverpool Mr & Mrs Heap Preston Mr & Mrs Harcourt Bilsborrow Mr & Mrs Sackfield Manchester Mr & Mrs Barron Aspatria Mr & Mrs Holden Chorley Stephen Thomas Preston David & Anne Moore Kendal M Edwards Lancaster David Simmons Penrith P Bedford Leigh Dr Littleford Carlisle Terry Taylor Seascale
UNPAID MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL & NEW RATES Members are reminded that Membership Renewals were due as from the 1st January 2011. There are still some outstanding. You should also be aware of the new rates which were agreed by your Executive Committee and published in the last edition of Waterwitch. They are: Adult £14; Family £20; Concession £10; Life £150; Affiliate £14 Members who pay by standing order are asked if they could update these as soon as possible to avoid the costs involved in the Trust having to send out reminders for the balance., Members paying by cheque should send them to the Membership Secretary, Alan Mather 15, Claughton Ave, BOLTON, BL2 6US 35
Question: What do you do with a group of Spanish ladies and their respective daughters on a sunny, bright, warm Sunday in late July? Answer: You take them on a trip on the ‘Waterwitch’ on the Lancaster Canal, at Crooklands, to show them the pleasures of canal boating and the beauty of the Cumbrian countryside. The Spanish visitors who travelled from their village, Canada de La Lena, near Pinoso, in Southern Spain, were enjoying a stay of one week at Ribby Hall, Wrea Green, near Blackpool, most of them never having travelled abroad previously. They were accompanied by Hilary Colman who now lives in the village and who used to live near Wrea Green , and Lyn Thompson of Lytham, a friend and frequent visitor to Canada de La Lena. Neil McGarry, our illustrious Trip boat engineer, sent this Question & Answer article. He, is we believe, a bit of a campanologist (not sure what that means but it does seem to ring some bells….) in his spare time and obviously this does have some appealing aspects. These Spanish ‘belles’ were apparently here to ring some changes and do the rounds, the boat trip came at the tail end of the visit and was much appreciated. Anon
36
100 Club Prizes: 1st £25; 2nd £15; 3rd £10. Winning Numbers since last Issue -
1st
2nd
3rd
June
51
82
20
July
-
-
-
Aug
-
-
-
Sept
-
-
-
THE LANCASTER CANAL
The draws for July, Aug and Sept were not made in the absence of the Treasurer on holiday/ business. Four draws will be made at the October Executive meeting
(Continued from page 32)
monies after settlement of any debts and liabilities shall be distributed as directed by such majority of voting members to such a charity or charities having objects similar to those of the Trust. 14. Extra Constitutional Matters The Executive Committee shall be empowered to deal with any matter not provided for in the constitution, but shall report the matter to the next Annual General Meeting. 15. Trust Authorisation No member shall use the name of the Lancaster Canal Trust to further their financial or professional interests.
37
LANCASTER CANAL TRUST Officers and Committee 2010/11 President
C.H.Bagot J.P. F.R.I.C.S.,D.L Vice - Presidents
John Gavan David Slater 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
Peter Jones 14 Blencathra Gardens Kendal LA9 7HL (01539) 739105 Membership Secretary
Alan Mather 15, Claughton Ave Bolton BL2 6US (01204) 521031 Public Relations Officer
Trisha Buzzard 07802438412 Waterwitch Editor
David Currington 12 Sedbergh Road Kendal LA9 6AD (01539) 732599 Working Party Organiser
Richard Trevitt 2 Fern Bank, Lancaster. LAI 4TT (01524) 846303 Grants Officer
Vacant
38
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBERS & OTHER TRUST OFFICERS Beryl Bowcott Chairman Recruitment & Promotions (01772) 863418
Alan Mather Boat Operations Manager (01204) 521031
Sandra Henstock (L.C.B.C. Representative) (01253)764171
Affiliated Members Preston Patrick Parish Council Ramblers Association (Preston Area) South Lakeland District Council Water Farm Boat Hire Yealand Conyers Parish Council Westmorland & North Lancashire Long Distance Walkers Assoc.
Beetham Parish Council Burton-in-Kendal Parish Council Bury & District Anglers Association Catterall Parish Council Kendal Civic Society Lancaster Canal Boat Club Natland Parish Council Newton with Clifton Parish Council
Corporate Members Arlen Hire Boats
CARP Ltd
Waterwitch is copyright 2011, 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 in February 2012 will be 14th January 2012 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
39
STAINTON JETTY BEING BUILT BY YOUNG CUMBRIA
40