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Issue 221, March 2024
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VOLES ON THE MONTGOMERY CANAL
Springing into life: beautiful daffodils bloom in traditional hand-painted watering cans along the Dudley Canal. PHOTO: JANET RICHARDSON
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Artificial Intelligence trialled in fight against bridge damage
DAYS OUT: FOXTON LOCKS
AN INNOVATIVE artificial intelligence (AI) CCTV system is being trialled by the Canal & River Trust on the Lancaster Canal, where thousands of pounds of damage has been caused to historic bridges. As well as inconvenience to local
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residents and boaters, vehicle strikes on 200-year-old stone bridges cost the trust up to £1million annually in repairs, diverting funds away from vital work. CRT asset engineer Andy Dobson said: “Humpback bridges were built for the passage of horse-drawn carts, not
for today’s modern vehicles and HGVs. Due to the large number of rural, narrow roads crossing the Lancaster Canal, it has more bridge strikes than any other.” He explained that the bridges in this area are of particular interest, as their stone parapets were lowered and replaced
with railings in the Second World War to deny shelter to invading enemy tanks and troops. Lancashire’s gently shelving beaches were considered a perfect spot for a large invasion force to land. • Continued on page 2
Child safety campaign
Smoke control areas
Top of the locks
THE Water Safety for Little Explorers campaign has launched for the second year. It aims to give parents and carers confidence to talk to young children about being safe on the water. Two thousand copies of a new storybook – Quack Quack Take Two Steps Back! – are being distributed to nurseries along the waterways by the Canal & River Trust. It is also available as a flipbook in English and Welsh on the Explorers page at www. canalrivertrust.org.uk
BOATS can now be included in Smoke Control Area rules subject to local consultation. The Canal & River Trust has stressed that it does not have management or enforcement powers; only local authorities can issue fines in respect of smoke from chimneys. Smoke created during propulsion or electricity generation is exempt. The first SCA involving a CRT waterway covers part of the Trent & Mersey Canal and Cannock Extension. Signage has been installed at entry points.
THE Hillmorton Locks on the Oxford Canal have again topped the Canal & River Trust annual lockage report with 7734 passages, a 2% drop. Lock 2 at New Marton on the Llangollen Canal showed a small increase to 7264 but Lock 4 Cholmondeston on the Shropshire Union Canal recorded 6830 – a 9% drop. Overall lockage showed a downward trend from more than 4.5 million in 2015 but has rallied to around 3.5 million. See full list at www. canalrivertrust.org.uk
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2 WELCOME/NEWS
March 2024
WELCOME WELCOME to the March edition of Towpath Talk. The first thing I would like to do before I get started is thank former editor, Janet Richardson, for the way in which she has welcomed me to the fold and handed over the editor’s baton. With more than 13 years at the helm, her hard work, enthusiasm, dedication and love of the subject matter have made this publication the huge success that it is. For that we are all grateful. Thankfully, her wealth of knowledge is not being lost, far from it – Janet will be staying on as our contributing editor and focusing on her key strength of news writing here at Towpath Talk. Meanwhile, as I take up the hot seat, it’s not the first time I’ve ended up standing on the shoulders of giants in the publishing world – my former role as editor-in-chief at the Yorkshire Dalesman magazine saw me following in the footsteps of the great Bill Mitchell MBE. So I take up the role of editor with relish and will endeavour to honour the efforts of those who have gone before me. And that leads me nicely on to this edition’s front page headline… Like a lot of people, I’ve been watching the rolling-out of Artificial Intelligence in the news recently and wondering where this path will take us. I’m a bit of a sceptic and it’s not something I have much hope for. I was, however, pleasantly surprised to see AI being trialled by the Canal & River Trust on the Lancaster Canal, where damage running into thousands of pounds has been caused to historic bridges when hit by vehicles. In a world where technology is often misused, it’s nice to see that it can be put to use in a positive way – hopefully, in this instance, protecting the nation’s canal heritage. Enjoy the edition.
Dan
Editor: Dan Clare tteditorial@mortons.co.uk Contributing editor: Janet Richardson jrichardson@mortons.co.uk Publisher Tim Hartley Group advertising manager Sue Keily Advertising sales team leader Tania Shaw – 01507 529489 tshaw@mortons.co.uk Editorial design Chris Abrams Production editor Pauline Hawkins Publishing director Dan Savage Commercial director Nigel Hole Contact us Customer services 01507 529529 Telephone lines are open: MondayFriday 8.30am-5pm help@classicmagazines.co.uk www.classicmagazines.co.uk News & editorial Tel: 01507 529466/01507 529451 editorial@towpathtalk.co.uk Published by Mortons Media Group Ltd, Media Centre, Morton Way, Horncastle, Lincs, LN9 6JR Tel: 01507 523456. Tel: 01507 529301 Printed by Mortons Print Ltd Tel. 01507 523456 Next issue – March 21, 2024
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Artificial Intelligence trialled in fight against bridge damage A photo of the bridge carriageway taken by the new AI camera. PHOTOS: CRT • Continued from page 1 The trust, which cares for 2800 historical bridges, will be testing the new system on Cockerham Road Bridge (No 79), near Forton, Lancashire, which was hit twice in 2022. In the past, the use of CCTV to provide constant recording of bridge strike hotspots in rural areas has proved prohibitively expensive due to a lack of power supply. However, this new system is controlled by AI using a mobile phone signal and doesn’t continuously record but takes a few photos when it detects vehicle movement. The AI then assesses if the bridge has been impacted. If there is no strike, the photos are deleted and if damage has been caused,
Repairs carried out in summer Narrow historic Lancaster Canal bridge now a busy through-route fo or lorries. 2023 after another vehicle strike.
trust staff receive a notification, allowing them to identify number plates to track down the offenders and claim full repair costs on their insurance. Last summer Cockerham Road Bridge had to be repaired again after yet another strike at a cost of £25,000. The full-length white steel railings on the top of the stone parapet were also damaged and, in
another innovation, have been replaced in sections, leaning away from the road to minimise the risk and make future accident repairs cheaper. Andy added: “We desperately need motorists to slow down and take more care. We are grateful to Lancashire County Council who have been working with us over the last two years to install
better approach signage to 15 at-risk bridges over the Lancaster Canal. “And if the AI CCTV system works effectively, it could potentially be rolled out at other accident blackspots and even be used on sites at risk from vandalism and fly tipping, saving the trust time and money and most importantly protecting the nation’s precious canal heritage.”
Waterways campaigners to quiz navigation authorities THE Fund Britain’s Waterways campaign group will be holding sessions with major navigation authorities, starting with the Canal & River Trust on Wednesday, April 10. These sessions will be chaired by FBW and live streamed to members, with a recording and written notes of the meeting to be made publicly available at a later date.
Members are invited to submit detailed written questions, which will be collated and submitted to each navigation authority two weeks in advance of its meeting. FBW will then ask the questions in the meeting and the navigation authority will provide detailed answers, both in person in the meeting and also in writing.
FBW chairman Les Etheridge said: “By arranging these sessions we are enabling members to ask questions on any area including those where reservations are publicly expressed. These will be positive and constructive sessions which we hope will benefit both the navigation authority and Fund Britain’s Waterways.” The campaign group was launched at
One of the campaign cruises that was held last year past the Palace of Westminster on the Thames. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
the end of June 2023 in response to the inadequate funding and deteriorating state of Britain’s network of canals and navigable rivers. More than 110 organisations are campaigning together for national and local government to act now and protect the public benefit and natural capital of our waterways. Activities to date have focused on raising awareness of the challenges facing our canals and rivers and the message that increased and sustainable funding is needed. Three well-reported campaign cruises were held last year in Birmingham, Gloucester and past the Palace of Westminster on the Thames. There will be a weekend of action over the Early May Bank Holiday weekend (May 4-6). This will comprise a series of events across the country on waterways managed by different inland navigation authorities in addition to IWA’s annual Canalway Cavalcade at Little Venice in London. It will culminate in a second campaign cruise past the Houses of Parliament on Wednesday, May 8, when Parliamentarians will be invited to view the event and express their support for the continued maintenance of the waterways.
New boater services in Leicester AFTER many years of campaigning by the Leicestershire Branch of the Inland Waterways Association, work has now started on the new boater facilities at Memory Lane Wharf in Leicester. The project has been made possible through funding secured by the Canal & River Trust in partnership with Leicester City Council. It continues the partnership’s investment in Leicester’s
waterways following the provision of secure moorings at Friars Mill and recent towpath improvements. “The branch has been campaigning for the restoration of the historic wharf for more than 20 years, and this is excellent news,” said Andrew Shephard, chairman of the Leicestershire Branch. “The new facilities will finally provide the city with a water point, Elsan and rubbish
disposal, which have been sadly missing here in Leicester since the wharf was abandoned many years ago.” In addition to new visitor moorings, there will also be several permanent residential moorings. The new facilities are scheduled to be open this spring, delivering good news for Leicester Line visitors this year. The wharf is very close to the city centre and the famous ‘golden mile’.
Memory Lane Wharf with contractors on site. PHOTO: ANDREW SHEPHARD
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www.towpathtalk.co.uk March 2024
Artist reunited with miners’ banner – after 40 years By Janet Richardson
CANAL-based artist Kathryn Webley has been reunited with a silk union banner she painted during the miners’ strike 40 years ago. Created for the Bolsover branch of the NUM (National Union of Mineworkers) it features miners’ leader Arthur Scargill being arrested following the ‘battle’ of Orgreave Colliery in May 1984 and could be based on a contemporary photograph by Peter Arkle. Kathryn is now better known for the painted glassware and window designs she creates on board her floating studio The Pod moored on the Chesterfield Canal and regularly attends waterways events and craft markets. She was also a winner of BBC’s Home is Where the Art Is. She had been asked by union members to create the banner
when she was an 18-year-old student and told Towpath Talk: “Even now I don’t really talk about the strike so it was quite emotional seeing the banner again after 40 years. My dad was on strike when I made it and we couldn’t afford any film so I have no record of it until now. I remember painting it in our back garden stretched over a frame that was leaning against our coal house. “I met one of the other miners who also stayed out on strike and he was telling me stories of how they rallied around the banner. When you make something you don’t always appreciate how much it would mean to people. Forty years on you could still hear the pride in his voice.” Kathryn was traced after the Derbyshire Times featured an appeal from the Derbyshire Unemployed Workers’ Centres (DUWC) which is staging an
exhibition in Chesterfield throughout March. One of the organisers, Colin Hampton, who joined DUWC in 1984, said: “We would like to acknowledge her work as we are expecting a large number of visitors to the Assembly Rooms for the 40th anniversary commemoration and want to be in a position to answer all the questions from the public.” He explained that the banner was used at pickets and demonstrations up and down the country but had to be hidden away in an outbuilding by the secretary of the Trades Council so it couldn’t be confiscated by the court. When the former secretary moved house he said he had all these old banners and Colin agreed to make sure they all went back to the right union branches but decided to keep this one for the exhibition.
Kathryn Webley with the banner she hadn’t seen for 40 years. PHOTO COURTESY KATHRYN WEBLEY
Glassware designer and artist Kathryn Webley at work on The Pod. PHOTO: PHIL PICKIN
Parade of historic vehicles marks bridge opening A PROCESSION of historic vehicles crossed the new Schoolhouse Bridge days before the road was formally opened to traffic. This followed many years of effort and months spent by contractors on the site of the last highway blockage on the Montgomery Canal in Shropshire. Coun Vince Hunt, chairman of Shropshire Council, cut the tape to allow the vehicles to cross. He noted that the old bridge had been levelled by the highway authority 50 or 60 years before and congratulated the volunteer team and contractors Beaver Bridges of Shrewsbury. At the event were a 1931 Sentinel Steam Waggon, 1910 Burrell traction engine, 1954 Citroen, 2008 Morgan 4/4 Sport, and 1979 Lomax threewheel kit car. Chairman of the Restore the Montgomery Canal! appeal Michael Limbrey said:
Shropshire Council chairman Coun Vince Hunt cuts the ribbon allowing the procession of historic vehicles to cross the new Schoolhouse Bridge. “Schoolhouse Bridge was the biggest obstruction in the Shropshire Gap, the remaining dry section of the canal in Shropshire. “The bridge was always going to be a challenge to the
restoration and it was difficult to see how the Canal & River Trust or the council would rebuild it for many years. So the local canal charities got together to raise the funds for what in the
end turned out to be a £1 million project funded entirely from private sources. “Our appeal was supported by TV canal personalities Timothy West and Prunella Scales and we were delighted to receive donations from near and far including charitable trusts like the Tarmac Landfill Communities Fund, Inland Waterways Association and the Walker Trust.” As well as funding, the volunteer team had to arrange the engineering design and legal documentation, with many hundreds of pages needed to meet regulatory and technical requirements. Other volunteers have helped on site and will be back to clear and landscape the site. Michael added: “Our canal groups are very proud of Schoolhouse Bridge, the biggest volunteer-led project in the years of restoration and a vital step in opening up the canal to
The Sentinel Steam Waggon leads the parade of historic vehicles with a Burrell traction engine bringing up the rear. PHOTOS: MONTGOMERY WATERWAY RESTORATION TRUST
the Shropshire border. “Government funding is helping to revitalise the canal in Powys and our challenge is now to reopen the canal through Schoolhouse Bridge to the border at Llanymynech.”
The Restore the Montgomery Canal! appeal is now raising funds so that volunteers can continue restoring the canal channel from Crickheath where it was reopened last year. Donations to help will be welcome at https://www. localgiving.org/appeal/ montgomerycanal
4 NEWS
March 2024
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Repairing bridges and banks along the Mon & Brec Canal
A FOUR-month programme of improvements to protect and preserve the picturesque Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal is due to be completed this month. Repairs to bridges and banks are being carried out along the 35-mile canal by a team of staff and volunteers from Glandŵr Cymru, the Canal & River Trust in Wales. Area operations manager for the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal, Lee Brain, said: “Our winter works programme is vital to ensure we keep the rich history of the canal alive so we can protect it to benefit people today and for future generations. “Our skilled team of staff and volunteers is working to repair bridges, leaks and the concrete channel in the canal as part of our ongoing maintenance to keep the canal open, safe and accessible for boaters and all other visitors.” The programme has included draining the canal between Brecon Basin and Brynich Lock to keep the canal watertight at the most northern point, grouting work on the Llan-Brynean
Bridge and leak investigation and concrete channel repairs just north of Goytre Wharf at Llanover. Already completed are repairs at Baylis Bridge, while channel repairs were due to be completed in mid-February at Park y Brain south of Goytre Wharf. Lee added: “The canal is over two centuries old and the work that we are doing is vital as the canal holds such a special place in the heart of the Usk Valley and Brecon Beacons National Park for people, wildlife and its heritage.” The trust is investing £250,000 in the canal this winter, part of a wider £50 million it has raised to invest in the canal network across England and Wales. The works are vital to keep the canal network in working order despite the challenges caused by its age and the increasing impact of climate change. For more information on the work of Glandŵr Cymru and how the charity is working to #KeepCanalsAlive go to canalrivertrust.org.uk to discover more about volunteering or donating.
Bridge 165 over the drained Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal.
The drained canal at Brynich Lock.
The drained canal between Brecon Basin and Brynich Lock.
Countryside management team and MP join canal work party
GRANTHAM Ca na l Society recently welcomed Rushcliffe MP Ruth Edwards and Greenfields Countryside Limited to join volunteers working in the Cropwell Bishop area. Due to the hard work of all involved, the dry section of canal at Bridge 23, Colston Road, was cleared of trees and brash. Greenfields Countryside Ltd generously donated time and expertise and took machinery, allowing chippings to be donated to Belvoir Vale Riding for the Disabled. The work was completed as part of the society’s plans to clear, repair and rewater the canal. Ruth Edwards said: “It was fantastic to hear the Grantham Canal Society’s plans and to see how the reconnection of
the waterway would be tied to sustainability and biodiversity of the area around the canal.” Describing the experience as fulfilling, Caroline StevensTurlington from Greenfields Countryside Ltd said: “It gave us the opportunity to
meet new people, learn new things and contribute to the local community. We believe these experiences can inspire others to volunteer as well.” Grantham Canal Society general manager Tony Osbond added that linking
MP Ruth Edwards hears about the canal restoration plans. PHOTO COURTESY RUTH EDWARDS
up with Greenfields Countryside had been a great opportunity to work with a like-minded business in the area in bringing back to life heritage projects that in time will see the Grantham Canal restored as a natural waterway. Greenfields Countryside Ltd has launched a crowdfunding page at www.justgiving.com with a target of raising £1000 for the Grantham Canal Society’s restoration work through a marathon-length walk along the canal on Saturday, June 29. If you are a business or individual looking to make a difference, please contact: volunteer@ granthamcanal.org
The Greenfield Countryside Ltd team with Grantham Canal Society volunteers. PHOTO: GREENFIELDS COUNTRYSIDE LTD
Looking out from Brecon Basin along the drained Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal. PHOTOS: RICHARD JOYCE, CRT
A culture of care at a Midlands marina
THE boating and lodge-owning community at Mercia Marina in Derbyshire now has a network of compassionate advocates to offer support where needed. More than 30 ‘Mercians’ have already signed up to keep an eye out for their neighbours, not just nodding hello and passing the time of day but asking are they truly okay as well as letting them know they are available to help. A marina spokesman explained: “In any community there are those who go above and beyond in looking after neighbours and those who might be vulnerable. Imagine if that spirit of community care could be amplified. The network provides a lifeline for those who might otherwise be overlooked, breaking down barriers and fostering a culture of genuine care.” The marina has taken proactive steps to ensure that no one is left behind and this is the concept of a well-being advocate. The advocates
were established to offer a helping hand and a listening ear for those who may need a little – or a lot of – extra support. “Some boaters and lodge owners may be more vulnerable and may not have a support network readily available to provide help when needed or even just a friendly shoulder. Being a good listener as well as a friendly face and available to chat works wonders. With the help of the local area co-ordinator Charlotte Mining we can assist people in getting the help they need. “Think of well-being advocates as neighbours on steroids – they go beyond the ordinary wave and hello. They engage meaningfully, taking that extra step to prevent crises from occurring. By keeping an eye out for subtle signs such as permanently closed curtains, a lack of visitors, or no indication of heating being used, they ensure that no one falls through the cracks.”
NEWS 5
www.towpathtalk.co.uk March 2024
National group campaigns to win energy justice for liveaboard boaters THE newly named campaign group, UK Boaters for Energy Justice, is continuing its campaign to make sure all boating households get historical energy bill support worth £600, which other households received in 2022/23. This campaign has been ongoing since a meeting with the MP for Devizes, Danny Kruger, at Caen Hill Marina in June 2023. Mr Kruger heard from both continuous cruisers and people at non-residential moorings about the impacts of being excluded from this support, which at the time was only being given to the minority of people across the UK with a residential mooring (only 3000 received this £600 payment in the UK, excluding Northern Ireland). Since then, the group has grown from Wiltshire to cover other areas of the UK, including Oxfordshire
and Shropshire, and has continued to lobby the Government, perhaps contributing to the decision to launch the £600 scheme for continuous cruisers in the late summer of 2023. There are still boaters who aren’t eligible for this support, in a variety of situations. Some are unable to continuously cruise for health reasons, but can’t access a residential mooring, so are moored at marinas for part of the year. Some have experienced bereavement so are given leeway to stay at their non-residential mooring, and some have moorings through employment which aren’t residential. They might be paying steep mooring fees and can’t necessarily challenge these due to the precarity of their mooring situation. Whatever the reasons, UK Boaters for Energy Justice maintains that
these households deserve the same support as every other household has been offered and that this would be a tiny cost to the Government, yet a significant benefit to recipients facing increased living costs. The petition can be found at: you.38degrees.org.uk/petitions/ get-vital-ps600-energy-bill-supportto-remaining-off-grid-householdscurrently-excluded-from-support The group is also looking to grow its campaigns team. It needs members to share posters and leaflets, speak to their friends, or meet with the Government ministers in May this year when the petition is handed in. For more information email: ukboatersforenergyjustice@gmail. com or call 07483 377346. The group’s next campaign meeting is online on Thursday, February 29.
Going loco to seal lock leaks THE Canal & River Trust is using waste ash from steam locomotives at Didcot Railway Centre to seal water leaks around lock gates. It was collected by trust representatives Matt Hudson and Roger Jones who said it ‘seals like magic’, adding that expensive leaks can cost £600 an hour to run electric pumps. They said: “We’d like to thank everyone at Didcot Railway Centre for allowing us on site to help with this valuable work.” Railways centre volunteer and photographer Frank Dumbleton said: “It is gratifying to learn that ash from Great Western Railway locomotives is assisting the
Kennet & Avon Canal to reduce its costs.” He explained that the GWR owned the canal, which allows navigation from Reading to Bath, from 1851 but applied to abandon it in 1926. This was refused by the Minister of Transport and the railway remained the owner until 1948 when the canal was transferred to the British Transport Commission.
Matt Hudson and Roger Jones of the Canal & River Trust filling bags of ash at Didcot Railway Centre. PHOTO: FRANK DUMBLETON
Make mother’s day with a boat trip
Bleak winter images from two boaters travelling on the Kennet & Avon Canal who have not received energy bill support, one of whom is having to use a food bank.
Grantham Canal Society’s Three Shires trip boat. PHOTO: JANET RICHARDSON
Mary and daughter Cybil, moored near Devizes, who are affected by the lack of energy bill support in the face of spiralling energy costs. PHOTOS: SUPPLIED
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MOTHER’S Day trips will mark the start of Grantham Canal Society’s cruising season on Sunday, March 10. The award-winning boat trips, aboard the Three Shires narrowboat, will offer stunning views of the Lincolnshire canal, with all proceeds going towards the canal’s maintenance and restoration. Half-hour trips are available for £25 for up to 10 passengers and longer
cruises are also available to book: visit https:// www.granthamcanal. org/trip-boat24/ There will also be boat trips at the society’s first event of the year, the Spring Craft Fair, held on Sunday, April 21, 10am3pm at the Woolsthorpe Depot (NG32 1NY). Society members will host a wide variety of local crafters alongside their own fundraising stalls. The craft fair was a huge success last year and
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was enjoyed by crafters, visitors and volunteers. For more information about boat trips, upcoming events and the work to restore and maintain the Grantham Canal, please follow the society on social media: Facebook – Grantham Canal Society Instagram @granthamcanalsociety
KEEP TOILETS SAFE FOR LONGER For your nearest dealer visit www.elsan.co.uk Use biocides safely. Always read the label and product information before use.
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G R E AT BRIT ISH PROD UCT S
6 NEWS
March 2024
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Regeneration work to begin in Welshpool Report & photos: Phil Pickin
POWYS County Council planners have approved plans to improve the Y Lanfa building, which stands beside the Welshpool Canal wharf. As a result, work is expected to begin later this year. In all, it has been reported that the cost will be around £1m and will include the rebuilding of a bridge, some dredging and the creation of new nature reserves. Richard Lewis, architect and director at Hughes Architects, who created the plans and pllanniing appllicatiion on beh hallf of the council, said: “From the
Y Lanfa before the work begins. PHOTO: PHIL PICKIN. outset, the vision for Y Lanfa has been about much more than simply renovating bricks and mortar. We see th his sch heme as an enabler, unlocking the immense
An architect’s impression of the finished project. PHOTO: HUGHES ARCHITECTS.
potential of the canalside to become an enabler for the regeneration of the entire town.” Powys secured almost £14 million of Levelling Up funding for the Montgomery Canal project, of which the Y Lanfa (The Wharf ) is part. Richard Lewis went on to say: “We're incredibly proud of what we've achieved with Y Lanfa. This project is a testament to the power of collaborative vision and design to breathe new life into historic spaces and communities. “We can’t wait to see Y Lanfa becom me a cornerstone of a revitallised Welshpool.” Thee work will include the surro o unding wharf area, which will be remodelled to improve the canalside seetting and to encourage inccreased use, while the adjacent cottages will be resttored and offered for com mmercial/community use. C oun David Selby, cab binet member for a More Prosperous Powys, said: “This is an exciting opportunity to not only safeguard the future of an n important landmark
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COLIN WAREING Lancashire in January 2019. PHOTO:
eams for 2019 are reveal k’s TTop TTeams T k’s Towpath Talk a s, we bid farewell awn AS A new decade dawn t th to 2019 with the results of our Towpath op Team award which has been Top kT Talk r r. running throughout the year. With four teams shortlisted for the final with vote it was a veryy close-run contest t volunteers ty Society Canal the Grantham taking the title by a short head.
Such was the support also for from Crusader Community Boating first Blisworth that we are awarding our a rd – something Community Boat awa f the we had alreadyy been planning for r r. coming year. of Commended are the Friends the River Nene and the Waterways Chaplaincy’s Martin and Fiona Buck. Award presentations to our finalists
r The r. will take place in the new year. off a winning team receives the hire day boat carrying up to 10 people, generously sponsored by ABC Leisure Group Ltd. The runner-up will receive a £100 voucher to spend at Midland four Chandlers at Braunston and all finalists will receive a £100 donation towards their volunteering organisation the from Mortons Media Group Ltd,
ed
alk. Tal tth T publisher of Towpath Our thanks go to the readers who rose of to the challenge of finding a group ave a gone that extra unsung heroes who have f their local stretch off towpath, mile for a association or ays canal or river, waterways a our judging ave community boat – and gave the panel a difficult job of shortlisting four finalists. • Continued on page 2
found on a boat moored Ouse bodies t achievemen f nd 100-dayCommunity of two men were fou probe Action Network (UCAN) THE bodies Boats gunshot were called UPPERMILL Y k city centre. Emergency services after starting in Yor investigating damage to narrowboats POLICE are Officers were after gunshots were fired in Cambridge. a December 5, at around 10.15pm, ay, called on Thursday, f m shots fro after nearbyy residents reported hearing near boats on the what was believed to be an air rifle the window of one River Cam. Photographs off holes in a since been published. One resident ave of the boats have the Chesterton from coming hots, s t that reporters told moored at Browns side of the river, were fired at boats on for about five went this and Ditton, Fen Field, no injuries were minutes. Cambridgeshire Police said reported and enquiries were continuing.
achieved its 100-day volunteering milestone 2300 hours of out in 2015. This included more than who, according voluntary work achieved by local people to, crafting to UCAN, “care about, and are committed environment”. and maintaining our beautiful local and for the positive Thanks were given to all supporters, work parties will feedback from the community. The next 20. The usual and 8 February be on January 4 and 23, and on Moorgate meeting point is 10am at the canal bridge on 01457 Killan Peter Contact Street but this can change. 878361 or peterkillan@hotmail.com
at around 8pm to Lendal Bridge on the River Ouse said officers on December 4. North Yorkshire Police f two men for attended “after concerns were raised with their touch in their 60s who had been out of bodies. Fire .” Upon arrival officers found the family.” The deaths and ambulance services both attended. although did were being treated as ‘unexplained’ a post-mortem not appear to be suspicious and The men had not examination was due to take place. alk went to press. Tal tth T been identified when Towpath
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building but to improve the service for both the local community and tourists alike.” The project will keep the existing museum and library but provide more floor space. The external canopy will be enclosed
with glass, and a new, industrialstyle lift will be provided. The work will also include the installation of staff toilets and, as much as can be achieved in an old building of this type, the result will aim to be low carbon.
The work had been expected to start last summer but is now expected to start later this year and will be undertaken in two phases, the first of which will require the library and the museum exhibits to be temporarily moved.
The Y Lanfa building is a well-known landmark in Welshpool. PHOTO: PHIL PICKIN.
Sail 4 Cancer appoints James Cole as patron
JAMES Cole, the founder and CEO of luxury cruise specialist Panache Cruises, has been appointed patron of the marine charity Sail 4 Cancer. Founded in 2001, Sail 4 Cancer provides days out and holidays for families affected by cancer, all of which have a nautical focus. From sailing days to longer holidays on canal boats and cruise ships, Sail 4 Cancer gives families something to look forward to during the darkest of times. Commenting on the announcement, James said: “Sail 4 Cancer is a charity that has been close to my heart for well over a decade. I have seen first-hand the impact that Sail 4 Cancer makes, having nominated several families in need for holidays with them. This is an incredible charity which makes a massive difference to the lives of many.” He added: “I am delighted to become a patron of this amazing organisation. With patrons that have included the former Admiral of the Fleet, Lord Michael Boyce plus competitive sailors such as Sir Ben Ainslie CBE, Dee
Caffari MBE and Nick Moloney, I have some big sea boots to fill! However, I am eager to get involved with a brief to get more people affected with cancer out on the water.” With a cruise industry career that extends over 25 years, James Cole has founded and developed some of Europe’s leading cruise brands. Launched at the start of the Covid19 pandemic in 2020, Panache Cruises is James’ latest venture. Andrew Hayward, founder of Sail 4 Cancer and the wider 4 Cancer Group, concluded: “Since 2001, Sail 4 Cancer and the wider 4 Cancer Group has sent more than 7000 people affected by cancer away on a range of respite breaks. We have delivered more than 93 years’ worth of holidays during that period. With a target to reach 100 years of respite by the end of next year, if anyone is reading this story who thinks they can help with fundraising or by donating a holiday (water-based or otherwise), we would love to hear from them.”
About Sail 4 Cancer
Set up in 2001 by a group of keen sailors who had all lost a close friend or relative to cancer, Sail 4 Cancer is primarily a provider of water-based respite days and holidays for families affected by the disease. Spending time on the water has many health benefits and is proven to lower stress levels, a major factor in recovery. The charity’s founders passionately believe in what they collectively call ‘the power of the holiday’. Day trips or longer holidays give each family something to look forward to after the family member with cancer has a course of treatment. They provide precious memories and also help the bereaved come to terms with their loss. Find out more at: www.sail4cancer.org
James Cole has been appointed patron of the marine charity Sail 4 Cancer. PHOTO: SUPPLIED.
NEWS 7
www.towpathtalk.co.uk March 2024
David (Mr Mac) McCarthy MBE
THE death of David (Mr 1971. The appearance of him Mac) McCarthy on January and Nancy, bringing near 17, 2024, just 40 days before infinite supplies of hot tea his 100th birthday, marks the and only slightly more limited end of an era. ones of broken biscuits, was Brought up in Crumpsall, never more welcome than Manchester, he joined during the ‘Rochdale 9’ Barclays Bank before the war, clearance in the bitterly cold, during which he served in the early weeks of 1973. After the Cheshire Royal Artillery, staying with Barclays until retirement. Ring reopened in 1974 Following his marriage to he supported the PFCS Nancy and the arrival of Ian, volunteers as they began he moved to Woodstock, his working on other canals, the home (and the spiritual one group ultimately becoming of Waterway Recovery Group WRG North West in 1977. North West) for the next 60 Typical was his response to years, only leaving 10 years the poor washing facilities ago when he followed Ian and daughter Jane to Rossendale. His interest in canals was aroused by a family boating holiday in the 60s. He joined the Peak Forest Canal Society and started providing his famed David receiving his MBE in 2001. re f r e s h m e n t s PHOTO: SUPPLIED for volunteers in
David McCarthy (right) in his van at Dukinfield clean-up Ashtac reunion in October 2012. PHOTO: ALISON SMEDLEY
in a hall in Droitwich one particularly muddy weekend. He bought the local w hardware shop’s entire stock h of o washing-up bowls, boiled e every urn, kettle and pan he c could find and produced bowl upon bowl of hot water b ffor the returning ‘navvies’. That the bowls were on the car Th park wall in full public view p was of minor importance. w As NW’s work grew, m more funds were needed sso, in January 1978, he sstarted a waste paper
Monty work parties start year on a high note
collection. This continued until 2018, stopping, 405 collections later, only when the merchant could take no more paper. Throughout that time, with limited help, he wrote, duplicated and delivered newsletters, phoned volunteers, booked skips, claimed grants and, for most of the time, organised lunch and washed up after it. Collections ultimately totalled 4000 tonnes, making it a significant environmental project in its own right. If that was not enough, for much of this period he and Nancy also ran the NW publicity/sales stand, raising yet more money while helping to recruit new ‘navvies’. It’s impossible accurately to value his labours but the waste paper collections alone raised more than £60,000. His contribution to the waterway movement was recognised in 1986 with the Inland Waterways Association’s premier award, the Cyril Styring Trophy, followed by an MBE in 2001. Never was such recognition more richly deserved.
PREPARATION for the new season made great progress as volunteers arrived for the first Shropshire Union Canal Society work party of the year on the Montgomery Canal. Restoration project manager Tom Fulda said: “The design is finalised and there is real momentum. The channel in Phase 1B was sufficiently dry to make a start on final profiling of the banks and for the channel bed to be graded to correct depth. “Waterproofing – lining and blocking – which is required in this section, will commence in early spring.” He explained: “The rain since the last work party has been almost continuous so the channel in Phase 1A, by the tramway wharf, was literally full to overflowing and volunteers arrived to find an overflow from the channel running through the compound gate under the welfare container and out the other side. Thankfully, the deluges had stopped a week before.”
Hedge laying occupied most volunteers and this continued along the towpath southwards from Phase 1B, where the shaping was also taking place, to a section into Phase 2, further down the canal towards Schoolhouse Bridge. A total of 36m was laid with further clearance and preparation of the area beyond. With authorisation from the Canal & River Trust ecologist, a start was also made on clearing piles of brash from the channel at the north end of Phase 2. On the Friday and Saturday, a handful of volunteers concluded the pump installation work that was started last work party at Redwith newt ponds, which were originally created some years ago and are now requiring a little TLC.
Profiling the canal.
PHOTOS: SUCS
If you want to get involved, just go to www.shropshireunion.org. uk – you’ll be surprised at the many ways you can help.
A hive of hedge-laying activity.
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March 2024
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Rising costs contribute to canal charity’s £5m deficit forecast By Janet Richardson
INCREASED costs are among the factors leading the Canal & River Trust to forecast a deficit of around £5 million for the current financial year. With an £87m spend on infrastructure and weaker investment markets yielding a reduced income, work is also ongoing to mitigate the impact of cost inflation. Chief executive Richard Parry explained that the financial year runs from April to March so it is currently in the last quarter. He told the waterways press: “We expect to be running at a small deficit and a lot of the costs we budgeted for are still working through such as the lock wall issue on the Marple Flight.” He said this would definitely be closed for Easter but it is hoped it will reopen before the end of June. After settlement caused one side of the wall at Lock 7 to move as much as 150mm, leading to it not being navigable, repairs are taking place with an estimated project cost of £1.89m. Emergency work following the recent storms, including 18 new stoppages and a significant spend on critical assets, are adding to the costs.
The planned infrastructure spend of more than £280m over the next three years includes more than £50m on work at many of the trust’s 70 reservoirs. Richard continued: “Toddbrook will run right into 2025 but Harthill is near to finishing despite being hampered by storms. At Brent we are using the opportunity of the reservoir being drained to clear out a lot of the clutter. And at Wilstone – one of the Tring reservoirs – we will have to spend more than planned.” More than 80 construction projects are planned for 2024-2025, including: dredging (19), reservoirs (24), bridges (17), embankments (18) as well as culverts, aqueducts and lock improvements.
Right: One of the stoppages for emergency repair works which had to be extended was at Lock 73 of the Wigan Flight on the Leeds & Liverpool Canal where the apron of the cill had to be removed and replaced after it was found to be fractured. Access for machinery had to be moved due to a gas main below the towpath surface. A mini digger comes up the stone ramp installed to get machinery in and out of the canal. PHOTO: COLIN WAREING
Reservoir open day attracts over 600 visitors
A group of visitors at the Welsh Harp Brent Reservoir open day. PHOTO: CRT
TOWPATH
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A PUBLIC open day at the Welsh Harp Brent Reservoir in London attracted more than 600 people. Hosted by the Canal & River Trust, it gave visitors the chance to speak to the project team and find out more about the structural and environmental improvement work that is under way at the reservoir.
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Canal & River Trust head of London & South East operations Charlotte Wood said: “We were delighted to meet so many people wanting to find out more about what’s involved in managing this incredibly important place for people and wildlife in such a densely populated urban area. This successful open day was made possible with the support of many partners, with special thanks to the Welsh Harp Sailing Club. “To carry out our essential maintenance works at the reservoir, we’ve drained around 1000 mega litres of water and rescued around 100,000 fish, some weighing as much as 30lb. Our volunteers and contractors have spent 844 hours removing more than 400 bags of rubbish, as well as tyres, e-bikes, safes, clothing and suitcases.” Welsh Harp Brent Reservoir was built in 1835 to supply water to the Grand Union Canal. As well as being a place for sailing, watersports and walking, it is protected as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) for the rich diversity of wildlife found on site,
including water birds and 16 protected plant species. The reservoir works, which are required under the Reservoir Act 1975 and are supported by players of People’s Postcode Lottery, include: repairs to the chains and rods that operate the reservoir’s sluices and repainting the Valve House Tower from where the sluice gates which control the water levels in the reservoir are operated. Charlotte added: “We’ve also been carrying out a series of environmental improvements at the Welsh Harp Brent Reservoir SSSI, including creating alcoves in the reed beds to provide more shelter for nesting birds. “And, with the support of the Welsh Harp Conservation Group, we plan to install 14 new island habitats for common terns, one of the species of water bird that lives on the reservoir.” The reservoir remains open to the public throughout the works, but signs are in place warning visitors not to walk on the drained area and mud for their own safety. Refilling is expected to start in the spring.
Blue, green and lots in between at NCA’s spring meeting THE Lichfield & Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust has put together a full programme of talks and a site visit when it hosts the spring meeting of the Northern Canals Association on Sunday, March 17. Presentations by a variety of speakers will be followed in the afternoon by a tour of the Darnford Moors Ecology Park Project. Trust chairman Carole Mills will talk on The Blue and the Green: developing Lichfield’s Canal Corridor, in which a 500m section of the canal has been built and lined as part of the project. As well as creating an aquatic habitat, wetlands area and nature trail, work has included the installation of ducting for electric cables to provide power for electric boats. Lichfield MP Sir Michael Fabricant, who chairs the All-Party Parliamentary Group for the Waterways and is patron of the trust, will talk on Parliament and
our Waterways while Tom Rochford, head of drainage services with contractors OnSite Central Ltd, will tackle Water Water Everywhere. Student Charlie Plant will talk about his experiences of Volunteering through the DoE Award and Onward. Former IWA national chairman Ivor Caplan will give an update on the Funding Britain’s Waterways campaign. YouTube film-maker and roving trader Andy Tidy will focus on the Lichfield/Ogley Locks and the impact on the wider BCN and after lunch Geoffrey Pursglove of the Ashby Canal Association will talk about slipways and restorations followed by restoration group updates. The meeting is being held at Boley Park Community Hall, 7 Ryknild Street, Lichfield WS14 9XU. For further information and to book a place contact northern.canals2021@ btinternet.com as soon as possible.
Birmingham canals annual event EVER w o n d e re d what’s lurking beneath the waters of the Birmingham Canal Navigations? The Birmingham Canals Clean-up weekend is a great opportunity to have fun and meet new people while clearing shopping trolleys, tyres, bicycles and even more exciting treasures from the canal.
This annual event on the Birmingham Canal Navigations helps keep the less well-used parts of these waterways from getting choked up with rubbish and becoming impassable for boats. WRG volunteers are supported each year by volunteers from the Inland Waterways Association, Birmingham Canal
Navigations Society, Canal & River Trust, Friends of Tipton Cut and local residents. Day visitors are welcome and it is possible to take your own boat. More information at: waterways.org. uk/support/ways-toget-involved/events/ birmingham-canalscleanup-2024
NEWS 9
www.towpathtalk.co.uk March 2024
Characters of the Cut
Pottery by Sally Vaughan By Alice Elgie
WHEN Sally Vaughan decided to sign up for a hand-building pottery class just before the pandemic struck, she could never have imagined how it would change her life. Now, four years later, she’s retired from her teaching job, moved on to a narrowboat, and is selling her pottery while continuously cruising the canals with husband Steve and their two dogs, Monty and Willow. Sally said: “In 2021 I left my job in primary education to retire early. I had been working long hours and realised school was taking over my life. It was time to slow down, and having often toyed with the idea of living on a boat we decided to take the plunge as it seemed a lovely way to retire yet still keep on the move.” Drawn to the slower pace of life and the ability to visit lots of places around the UK, the couple purchased Jenny, a 70ft cruiser stern narrowboat, and adapted the inside to suit their lifestyle as continuously cruising liveaboard roving traders. The plan, however, was not initially to be roving traders but after taking the hand-building pottery course, Sally soon realised that clay had literally and figuratively got under her fingernails. She explained: “During Covid, working in education was crazy, with the rules changing daily, never knowing what the next day would bring. I found myself waking at 2am unable to sleep, my head spinning with it all, so I started playing with clay during those nights until I calmed enough to return to bed and sleep.” From these middle-of-the-night creations, Sally started making wind chimes for her garden after getting fed up with the same offerings in every shop, just with different price tags. It wasn’t long before friends and family requested she make them some and the idea to expand was born. “When we made the decision to move aboard I knew I wanted to continue my ‘clay therapy,’ so becoming traders seemed a natural step. We spent the first year trying a couple of markets, and the response was so good we decided to continue.” Sally explained that her creations are born from a sense of being a little different. “Hand-building gives everything an organic, natural look. I make big mugs, with big handles you can pick up easily, perfect for early morning cuppas. The garden pots and mobiles I make tend to be just for fun, to brighten up and add colour, or bring a smile to someone.” She also enjoys sometimes allowing the clay to dictate what she will end up with. “I like to sample different clays, and I’m always thinking about what I can make with each type to show off colour and texture. In addition to my bright wind chimes, I like to use earthy colours and make garden art that blends well with
Sally working on some of her fabulous pottery creations. nature and the outdoors. I also make pot stands and wall plaques that reflect the leaves of trees and bushes we pass on the towpath.” With customers from Cornwall to the Highlands of Scotland, and even as far as New Zealand, it seems these impressions of England’s towpaths are well received and passers-by are always surprised when they realise Sally has made everything on board, and it’s functional. “It can be tricky space-wise sometimes, as during winter the clay can take a few days to dry, ready to fire, so I’m limited to how much I make at a time.” Summer, however, offers Sally a completely different working environment. She continued: “Handbuilding is my favourite style, but I’m also developing my skills with the wheel and during warm summer days I love setting it up on the towpath where I can create alongside nature. I feel I have the best working environment on those days!” Time to indulge in creative projects is definitely a plus point to a slow life lived on the canals, but in addition, Sally, Steve and the dogs love the community spirit they find. “We get to meet so many new people on the towpaths, or through chatting in the local stores and pubs we visit. It’s brilliant.” In the past four years, they have travelled the entire length of the Shropshire Union, the Trent & Mersey, Llangollen and Montgomery, River Weaver, Staffs & Worcester, and the Coventry, BCN and Macclesfield Canals. It seems Sally has certainly travelled far, far away from those 2am clay therapy sessions to appease work stress, instead finding herself firmly floating through a peaceful and creative life wandering the waterways.
At work: Lee Smithson works on his miniature creations. PHOTO SUPPLIED BY LEE SMITHSON.
Miniature modeller on the Cut
Sally Clifford chats to miniature modeller Lee Smithson about his canal boat commissions. IT’S a small world for miniature modeller and canal boat enthusiast Lee Smithson. Lee’s interest in modelling began when creating plastic model kits with his father. Since then he has progressed to scratchbuilt models. Lee’s largest model to date was recreating a row of terraced homes, the street where his in-laws lived. “I gave it to my in-laws as a gift because it was their house and it was to challenge myself to see if I could do it,” he says. The idea to box frame his work came from his mum – soon the commissions came flooding in. “The frontage of houses in box frames are really popular,” says Lee. “It’s something different and quite unique. A lot of it is people like to remember their childhood home or their favourite pub.” Creating miniature models has been a longtime hobby for Lee, a t ra i n e d e l e c t ro n i c s engineer, but the demand has enabled him to give up his job as a medical equipment engineer to pursue his pastime as a full-time profession. He explains how showcasing some of his work on social media introduced his work to a wider audience: “By
putting them on Instagram and Facebook, demand really exploded.” With his electronics background, Lee is able to electrify some of his smallscale creations. One of the hardest models he has completed so far was of a fully working miniature of the River Don steam engine based at Kelham Island Museum. Many of Lee’s commissions have come from his home city of Sheffield which is part of his brand name Sheffield Miniatures. Small-scale replicas of narrowboats have also been among Lee’s commissions. His first foray into narrowboating came when he hired one for his stag do. “For the last 10 years I have been going on narrowboats every year. I love the speed of it, it is just relaxing. It is a disconnection from the modern world and I love the canals,” Lee explained. His first narrowboat commission tw o years ago was to recreate a narrowboat for the family that had owned it. The most recent was creating a smallscale version of a working coal barge as a reminder of a lost loved one.
Precious memories: Amanda and Stuart with the miniature model of Auriga which Amanda commissioned for Stuart in memory of his father. PHOTO
SUPPLIED BY AMANDA COOPER
Following the death of her father-in-law Rick Cooper, Amanda Cooper was keen for her husband, Stuart, to have a lasting reminder of his father. “Everyone knew my father-in-law as a boater, a coalman. He was happy boating, it was his life,” says Amanda. She knew a miniature of Rick’s boat, the Auriga, would be the perfect present. Working from a video and photographs, Lee was able to replicate the 72ft barge in miniature. Speaking previously about his boating life in a documentary, Rick, who delivered coal, diesel and gas bottles from the barge, spoke of its early history. Built in 1935 for the Grand Union carrying company, it is understood to have worked as a fire boat on the Thames during the Second World War. Following nationalisation it is understood the barge b e c a m e t h e p ro p e r t y o f the British Waterways Board and worked as a maintenance boat on the canal. Amanda explained: “Our children presented the boat to Stuart and I have never seen him speechless in the 15 years we have been together. I knew when
he saw it, it would be a daily reminder of his father.” Stuart recalls his father lived on a 35ft narrowboat for 10 years before moving on to Auriga. He spent almost a decade working on his coal barge travelling up and down the Ashby. In the summer months Rick enjoyed travelling to shows accompanied by his butty boat, Gilbert, which provided him and his rescue dog, Cassie, with additional accommodation away from the workplace. Stuart, who says his dad was living his best life on the canal, will treasure the precious gift from Amanda and their children. “I was speechless when I saw it. The fact it is so detailed and such a perfect recreation, even down to the quirks,” says Stuart, referring to the stepladder his father carried on the boat which Lee has also recreated in miniature. He enjoyed that part of “H his life and really made the most of it. He lived exactly how he wanted to live. He really enjoyed it.” For more information on Lee’s work, visit: www.sheffield miniatures.co.uk
Demand for Sally’s pottery spans from Cornwall to the Highlands of Scotland and even as far as New Zealand. Website: www.potterybysally.co.uk Facebook: @potterybysally Instagram: @potterybysally
It’s a slow life lived on the canals for Sally, Steve and the dogs.
Alice Elgie is a writer and also creator of the online community Slow Into The Seasons, along with a podcast of the same name. In these spaces she muses about living a slower, simpler life: slowintotheseasons.substack.com/ Slow Into The Seasons on Spotify
The small-scale replica of the Auriga coal barge Lee created in memory ry y of Rick Cooper.
PHOTO SUPPLIED BY LEE SMITHSON.
10 NEWS
March 2024 www.towpathtalk.co.uk
Find out how fee rises will affect you MORE information will be going out about changes affecting Canal & River Trust boat licence fees which are set to rise on April 1. An increase of 6% for both private boat owners and boating businesses was confirmed recently. Surcharges for boats without a home mooring and widebeam boats, and changes to the prompt and online payment discounts will be applied in addition to this rise. Boaters can use a new online calculator on the trust’s website to calculate what the licence fee will be for their boats: licensing.canalrivertrust. org.uk/LicencePrices
Chief executive Richard Parry said: “There is support available for boaters, and we urge people who are struggling to get in touch with our team.” CRT will continue to support boaters who may be struggling to pay their licence fees on a case-by-case basis. This may include arranging flexible payment plans and signposting to relevant services, for example the Waterways Chaplaincy, local authorities and Citizens Advice. At a recent briefing, members of the waterways press were told that there were currently 446 approved equality adjustments, 286 pending decisions and 45 existing adjustments under review.
Campaign for volunteers attracts more than 1100 responses INITIAL results of the Canal & River Trust’s Volunteer by Water campaign have been encouraging thanks to widespread publicity. Its launch, as reported last month in Towpath Talk, coincided with the winter storms which showed how extreme weather events are increasing the work needed to protect the canal network. Supported by TV
presenter Ranvir Singh, who is an ambassador for the trust, and other celebrities it had initially yielded 1173 enquiries of interest, director of communications and external relations Susie Mather told the waterways press. “We are now trying to harvest these enquiries and turn them into volunteers,” she said. A series of welcome events are planned
to highlight the range and flexibility of volunteering roles. Targeting 25-45-yearolds, the campaign with the headline ‘Your canal needs you’ featured across 75 advertising screens including at Liverpool Media Wall and the Canary Wharf shopping centre. These were provided free of charge for the trust for two weeks across the country.
A fallen tree blocking the River Soar towpath. PHOTO: CRT
Winter storms leave trust facing £3m repair bill By Janet Richardson
THE impact of recent named storms has left the Canal & River Trust to pick up an estimated £3 million clean-up and repair bill. High winds and heavy rainfall from Storms Gerrit and Henk caused flooding incidents and larger failures such as cutting slips and culvert bursts around the eastern and southern parts of the network, particularly in the East
Midlands. More than 120 trees also had to be cleared from navigations. Chief executive Richard Parry told the waterways press that the £3 million cost was probably an underestimate. “Some of the jobs could become more costly. We also have to be aware of some of the neighbouring properties such as at Hackney Wick and we expect there will be claims.” He continued: “We had quite a challenging four weeks from
Christmas when we have either been in the middle of a storm, recovering from one or expecting the next one. “We have had a difficult start to the year, there has been no single catastrophic impact but lots of medium size events and disturbance to works.” Subsequent storms Isha and Jocelyn have inflicted further damage, the cost of which had yet to be calculated at the time of going to press.
Who wants to go for a paddle..?
IT’S no wonder that Waverley Excursions general manager Paul Semple is smiling. Not only has he completed five years at the helm of a company that runs PS Waverley, the world’s last sea-going paddle steamer, but for the first time since he took over in 2019, there’s been no need for an appeal to keep the famous paddler paddling. “We had our best season for years in 2023 and we carried a record 157,000 passengers on the Clyde, the Bristol Channel from the south coast of England piers and on the Thames. That means we raised enough to cover this winter’s repairs and dry docking for the first time since I took the hot
seat and we’re absolutely delighted,” said Paul. Winter maintenance is currently under way with deck planking being replaced by Mackay Boatbuilders of Arbroath, with traditional caulking being replaced with a longlife modern weatherproof material. The paddler will move downstream from her Glasgow berth in April for dry docking at Greenock before returning to service on the first sailing of 2024 from Glasgow on Friday, May 17. Children up to the age of 16, accompanied by a fare-paying adult, will travel free on Clyde sailings this year for the first time, in a bid to attract more children and families to the Waverley experience.
“I fell in love with Waverley as a wee boy,” laughed Paul. “We want to make sure that children do the same today as they are our passengers of the future.” Paul puts the success of last season down to losing very few days due to poor weather or technical issues, as well as fuel oil prices dropping from a record 94p per litre in 2022 to 69p in 2023. But, he says, the greatest success was visiting piers that Waverley hadn’t called at for many years as well as calling at new ones. The call-again list included Craignure, Troon, Portishead and Ipswich, with cruises for the first time from Warrenpoint
in Northern Ireland and Shoreham-by-Sea, with Bristol Channel, south coast and Thames trips proving to be especially successful. “Keeping the timetable fresh is what brings passengers on board,” said Paul. “And for 2024, when we’re marking the 50th anniversary of the ship being sold to us for £1 by Caledonian Macbrayne, we’ve new destinations as well as returns to favourites, while in August, we’ll be on the River Dart at Kingswear to meet and sail alongside PS Kingswear Castle, and that will be quite an event. That and full details of all our sailings for the 2024 season are at www ww ww. w waverleyexcursions.co.uk – please come on board.”
Full steam ahead! Waverley from the Erskine Bridge. PHOTOS: HUGH DOUGHERTY
The paddler steams down the Clyde making for Largs pier in perfect weather.
Right: Waverley chief Paul has plenty to smile about in 2024 as he inspects the new decking planks being laid in early February this year.
NEWS 11
www.towpathtalk.co.uk March 2024
Focus on canal funding as MPs gather for budget By Janet Richardson
BUDGET day on Wednesday, March 6 is being seen as an opportunity to highlight the Keep Canals Alive campaign. A reception is being held by the Canal & River Trust in Westminster in a bid to get cross-party support in the run-up to the General Election. The trust’s director of communications and external relations Susie Mather told the waterways press: “There has been a great response from the
public with some 12,000 emails sent to more than 600 MPs. Lots of questions have been asked in both houses and we are trying to get MPs and peers to come and see what we are doing.” Phase two of the campaign will see the publication of an Impact Report and continued discussion over funding and the risk of not investing in the canal network with the gap widening as costs increase. Susie explained: “We are trying to make sure that the decision makers understand
the contribution the trust can make to policy areas and are trying to position ourselves as one of the solutions to which we are very much active partners.” She added that the trust welcomes the Fund Britain’s Waterways campaign and is supporting its events. These include a weekend of action coinciding with IWA’s Canalway Cavalcade over the Early May Bank Holiday weekend and followed by a further cruise past the Houses of Parliament on May 8.
PART OF MIDDLEWICH CANAL CENTRE
D OL S AT BO
New man at the top at IWA THE Inland Waterways Recovery Group (WRG) a Association (IWA) has a key part of its operations. new national chairman. Having stabilised its A trustee since finances, the association September 2022, Mike is working to reduce the complexity of its Wills was appointed with immediate effect financial reporting and expects to show a modest earlier this month. He surplus in its 2023 annual has been a supporter of the association for nearly accounts. 40 years and a canal Trustees agreed enthusiast all his adult life. that IWA would not be Mike, who lives in York, appointing a CEO at this is a chartered accountant time to succeed Professor and has a background in Sarah Niblock, who corporate reorganisation resigned in October, but and management. would be strengthening He said: “Restoration its campaigning has been key to provide the capability by recruiting a social and economic public campaign manager and benefits of a connected The IWA’s new national chairman strategic lead to work at national inland waterways Mike Wills. PHOTO: IWA its Chesham head office network. (see page 12). “Times may be tough for three deputy national Plans for 2024 include navigation authorities now, chairmen who will each act leading the major Fund but it is so important that we as co-ordinator for key aspects Britain’s Waterways campaign hold the faith with restoration of the association’s work: Sue alongside more than 100 groups and further develop O’Hare for navigation and waterway organisations, the inland waterways for campaigns; Nick Dybeck for a reinvigorated Canalway future generations.” waterway restoration and Cavalcade and delivering Mike added that the next Peter Marlow for membership WRG’s restoration working few years would see major and the environment. holidays, Canal Camps, which It is planned to appoint a are back at full strength. A challenges in maintaining and improving funding for fourth deputy to cover finance restoration conference is being held in Northampton on navigation authorities and later in the year. As a result of the strategic Saturday, April 13 and WRG’s the sector in general, but IWA’s campaigning spirit review announced at training and weekend work and leadership has been the 2023 AGM, there is a parties continue apace. For further information gathering support from renewed emphasis on IWA’s leading politicians and other campaign work and a renewed about the Waterway Restoration influential decision-makers. commitment to waterway Conference turn to the IWA Trustees also appointed restoration, with Waterway round-up on page 12.
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Middlewich Canal Centre is home to the following family of companies
School focus on Wendover towpath event LOCAL schools will lead a celebration of the opening of the upgraded towpath between Wendover and Halton in June. Wendover Canal Trust patron Robbie Cummings, of BBC 4’s Canal Boat Diaries TV series, will cut the ribbon. The event will take place from 10am-3pm on Friday, June 28 – the last day of John Colet School’s ‘Focus Week’ of extracurricular activities. As well as a ‘canal fair’ in Walnut Tree Meadow, there
will be a teddy bears’ picnic for primary age children plus a treasure trail. There will also be an equivalent challenge for secondary schoolchildren and a quiz along the towpath for pupils on ecology and environment. Talks will also be given by experts on water safety, environment and ecology at sites of particular interest along the towpath. It is planned to hold a sponsored walk for a local charity with stop-off points at heritage sites, musical
participation, refreshments and displays along the way. Participants will be able to join where they like – at Wendover HP22 6HF, Halton HP22 5NS or between. A free shuttle bus will run from either end of this 1.7-mile towpath to take people back to their starting point. The event is being organised by the John Colet School, Wendover News, Wendover and Halton Parish Councils, EKFB and Wendover Canal Trust.
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12 IWA ROUND-UP
March 2024
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AROUND THE COUNTRY WITH IWA’S AMY TILLSON
Celebrating 50 years of progress in Somerset and Mid Devon IWA West Country Branch has published a new booklet to mark the many achievements made over the last halfcentury on the waterways of Somerset and Mid Devon. The booklet presents the achievements in chronological order, with numerous photos, including major milestones such as the 1974 reopening of the 10.8-mile Barge Canal section of the Grand Western Canal, the 1994 reopening of 15 miles of the Bridgwater & Taunton Canal and River Tone Navigation, and the 2020 completion of an ‘access for all’ project on 7.6 miles of the Upper Parrett at Langport. Ray Alexander, West Country Branch chairman, said: “The area is fortunate to have a wonderful mix of
rivers and canals which, while not joined to the national network, are cherished by locals and visitors alike. Indeed, many thousands of people, along with local businesses and the environment, have benefited as sections of waterway and adjoining paths have been brought back into use during this time.” The book also pays tribute to the volunteers, private investors and numerous local and national organisations without whose support this progress would not have been made. IWA is proud to have played its part in this, not only through the West Country Branch and its work party volunteers but also through its specialist advisers and Waterway
Recovery Group. Ray adds: “At a worrying time of funding cuts, we hope the booklet will also serve as a reminder that all the benefits to communities and the environment cannot be taken for granted. Ongoing support is vital.” Printed copies of the booklet are available from: ray.alexander@ wat e r way s. o rg. uk or you can dow nload it f ro m : www. water ways.org. uk /water ways/ b r a n c h e s / Front cover of the new booklet iwa-west-country- published by the IWA West Country Branch. branch
Career opportunity arises at IWA
AN exciting new role is now available as a campaign manager and strategic lead at IWA where the successful candidate will play a vital part in delivering campaigns and leading a small team at the Chesham office in Buckinghamshire. That person will also have a significant impact on shaping policy at the national, local and devolved levels. The role will be instrumental in
developing and executing IWA’s efforts to influence policy and strategy at various levels. This will involve working with trustees and leading the strategy, planning and implementation of major influencing campaigns. The ideal candidate will bring experience working in policy, campaigns and public affairs. Knowledge of digital campaign techniques and experience in
Work parties EAST March 3 and 19 IWA Northampton Branch: Work parties are usually held one
weekday and one Sunday a month, along the Northampton Arm, 10am-2pm. The tasks usually include vegetation clearance, weeding, litter picking and painting at locks. Contact: Geoff Wood at geoff.wood@waterways.org.uk for details.
evaluating campaigning activities will be crucial for success in this position. The role will also have responsibility for the strategic development and implementation of marketing and campaign initiatives for IWA members and key stakeholders to drive awareness, engagement and growth. Office-based at Chesham but may involve some out-of-office hours work such as attendance at board meetings. More details at: www.waterways.org. uk/about-us/the-charity/work-with-us
WEST Tuesdays & Saturdays IWA West Country Branch (Taunton & Bridgwater): Work parties
in the Somerset area, 10am-1pm. Contact: Mike Slade at mike. slade@waterways.org.uk or mdslade8@gmail.com; tel 07977 263840. Find out more about volunteering opportunities here: https:// waterways.org.uk/support/ways-to-get-involved/volunteer
New year – new you? NOW that you have had time to settle into the new year and either failed or succeeded in your resolutions, here’s a prompt to improve your social life and mental and physical health. IWA branches are dependent upon volunteers to help keep your local waterways open and to help with campaigning activities. The wonderful volunteers cover many roles from committee type to hands-on getting dirty to letter writing and other forms of campaigning, to preserving the
heritage and checking planning consents that could affect local waterways. Many branches are due their local AGMs and are looking for people to join them, and many also have monthly socials, so please do get in touch and go along. Could you spare a few minutes or a couple of days? If so the IWA would love to hear from you. Email: volunteer@waterways.org. uk or go to: www.waterways.org. uk/support/ways-to-get-involved/ volunteer
Busy riverside destinations like Cocklemoor are dependent upon volunteers to help keep local waterways open.
Restoration Conference:
Connected working in restoration
The 2024 Annual Restoration Conference, jointly organised by The Inland Waterways Association, Canal & River Trust and Buckingham Canal Society, is taking place on Saturday, April 13 at the University of Northampton, Creative Hub, 10am-3.30pm. Given the current funding restraints,
working in partnership and maintaining positive relationships with a broad aspect of people from landowners, local authorities, navigation authorities, community groups and volunteering bureaus, waterway and towpath users can be crucial. This year’s Restoration Conference will explore challenges
and opportunities through examples and practical insights. Delegates are requested to prebook and pay a £10 contribution for lunch, refreshments, venue and parking; anyone arriving on the day will be charged £15. Book at : www. water ways.org.uk/ restorationconference
Bridgwater Docks at the junction of the Bridgwater & Taunton Canal with the River Parrett. PHOTOS: WEST COUNTRY BRANCH IWA/GORDON MCKERROW
Horse-drawn trip boat at Tiverton on the Grand Western Canal.
13
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14 FREIGHT
March 2024
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What have the Romans ever done for us? Jonathan Mosse’s monthly look at freight developments on the inland waterways.
IN THE Monty Python Life of Brian sketch the list of Roman achievements soon swells to include a multitude of significant social benefits, with aqueducts the first to be mentioned! I suspect that these were of the drinking water variety but let’s, for our purposes, assume they carried commercial craft. In the contemporary context of climate change and the move towards net zero, we could substitute COP28 for the Romans, thereby providing an opportunity to examine how, if at all, the recent deliberations in the oil-rich state of the United Arab Emirates might impact on commercial carrying on the UK inland waterways.
After all, when its elder sibling held centre stage in 2021 beside a significant Scottish tidal river, straddled by a large city – totally bare of commercial cargo-carrying – nothing whatsoever changed. The River Clyde still flows, unfettered by barge traffic, through the centre of Glasgow to the open sea beyond Greenock, while on each bank cars and heavy goods vehicles clog the parallel motorway and arterial road system. So, I think it’s fairly safe to say that, while there is occasion to applaud our erstwhile invaders on several substantial counts, the jury is still out on the impact of successive COPs, at least as far as UK inland waterways freight is concerned!
Moving this transformer by road was physically impossible.
Hasty departure
Matters in general – and credibility in particular – were not helped one iota by the antics of British government climate minister Graham Stuart who, by the time the talks kicked off, had persuaded the COP presidency to allow the UK to have a more significant role in the proceedings. However, despite the critical moments playing out in the UAE, the minister left mid-summit to head to the Commons for a vote on the Tuesday evening before quickly returning to Dubai: a round trip of 6824 miles, gratuitously generating something north of half a tonne of carbon. As Chiara Liguori, Oxfam's senior climate change policy advisor, observed: “There can be no more tragic outcome for UK climate diplomacy than this – flying home from talks to avert a climate catastrophe, at the most critical moment, in an attempt to salvage a cruel and impractical (immigration) policy.”
A virtual quarry in the Thames Estuary, supplied by ship, services the capital’s aggregate needs without a single lorry ever turning a wheel.
So, if this is the big picture – the global climate change view – it’s hardly surprising that the opportunities for moving as much freight as possible within the UK by water get passed up time and time again, however eloquently the environmental case is presented. Reasoned accounts and wellargued cases for modal shift (more next month) – and the chance to reduce carbon by around 75% – constantly fall on deaf ears… or maybe, as in the case of Graham Stuart, the listening apparatus has simply gone AWOL!
is littered with weaknesses and does not nearly go far enough to stop climate catastrophe, with no mention of actual plans for phasing out fossil fuels, a lack of clear commitments on climate finance and an over-reliance on false and unproven technologies such as carbon capture and storage”. Nations merely agreed to ‘transition away’ from coal, oil and gas, departing from the earlier stronger language of ‘phasing out fossil fuels’. If only UK transport could look forward to a parallel commitment to managed transition from road to water and rail. “The lack of an agreement to phase out fossil fuels was devastating,” said Professor Michael Mann, a climatologist and geophysicist at the University of Pennsylvania in the US. “To ‘transition away from fossil fuels’ was weak tea at best.
It’s like promising your doctor that you will ‘transition away from doughnuts’ after being diagnosed with diabetes.” Mann went on to say: “Mend it, don’t end it”, pointing out that “COPs are our only multilateral framework for negotiating global climate policies. But the failure of COP28 to achieve any meaningful progress at a time when our window of opportunity to limit warming below catastrophic levels is closing, is a source of great concern.” As Professor Martin Siegert – a polar scientist and deputy vicechancellor at the University of Exeter – said: “The science is perfectly clear. COP28, by not making a clear declaration to stop fossil fuel burning, is a tragedy for the planet and our future. The world is heating faster and more powerfully than the COP response to deal with it.”
Carpe diem?
We could have relied upon the Romans to seize the day (as they did on a regular basis, throughout a sizeable and stable empire) content to travel and trade the length and breadth of Europe’s seas and rivers. As War on Want pointed out: “… the agreement reached at COP28
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BOATING AWARDS 15
www.towpathtalk.co.uk March 2024
Sustainable boating awards launch
Champions of greener boating are sought for the IWA/Towpath Talk Sustainable Boating Award. TOWPATH Talk and the Inland Waterways Association have joined forces to launch an exciting new award scheme recognising the pioneers of sustainable boating. In a world of climate change and energy crisis, there is a common consensus that new and pioneering ideas, strategies, projects, technology and infrastructure must be investigated, explored and implemented. We all have a duty of care to the planet and we at
Towpath Talk recognise this, as do our readers, and certainly the IWA. This is why we are backing the award scheme and want to encourage our readers, contributors and advertisers alike to get their thinking caps on and make nominations for the awards – we want the brightest and best contributions to sustainable boating to be recognised, however large or small they may be. It’s not the size of the project that matters – it’s the intention and results behind it. With the above in mind, entries or nominations are now being sought in respect of individuals and organisations or businesses deemed to have made the most valuable contribution during the previous calendar year.
Nominations and entries
There are two categories for the awards: Group one: Non-commercial – this category is for individuals or groups representing charity or community organisations. Group two: Commercial – this category is for waterway-related businesses.
Judging panel and criteria
The judging panel will be made up from three separate bodies; those being one or more individuals from Towpath Talk, the IWA and an independent representative from the waterways community – no single body shall have a majority. In terms of criteria, the award will be made to the category winners which, in the opinion of the judging panel, have made the greatest contribution to making inland waterways boating more sustainable in the previous calendar year.
Submissions
In the first instance, send your written nomination (not exceeding 750 words
The low drag hull seen here out of the water. PHOTO: SIMON BOYDE
Electric boat Ampere seen here at Froghall. PHOTO: MALCOLM BRIDGE. – and up to three photographs may be included) via email to: IWATTsustainable. awards@waterways.org.uk The closing date for entries/ nominations will be July 1, 2024, after which these will be publicised. The awards will be judged by a panel
A few of the Sustainable Boating Group members (left to right) Bowman Bradley, Peter Fisher, Jonathan Mosse, Rupert Smedley, Malcolm Bridge, David Struckett. PHOTO: SUPPLIED.
comprising representatives of the IWA, Towpath Talk and the waterways community. The winners will be announced at a presentation event later in the year. The Sustainable Boating Group is a small group of IWA members, experienced boaters, owning a wide range of leisure craft, who are passionate about ensuring that leisure boating is sustainable into the future. It published its Vision Paper in November 2020 and IWA’s Green Boating Guide in 2022 as well as a range of articles for inland waterways publications and presentations at Crick Boat Show and to other interested parties. For further information and to download IWA’s Guide to Greener Boating visit www. waterways.org.uk/campaigns/ sustainable-boating
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16 MUSEUM FOCUS
March 2024
Canalside Heritage Centre at Beeston, Nottinghamshire.
PHOTOS: NICOLA LISLE, WITH KIND PERMISSION OF THE CANALSIDE HERITAGE CENTRE
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Information boards introduce you to the history of Britain’s waterways.
Historic lock cottages host stories of the Beeston Cut
Nicola Lisle continues her museum series with a visit to the Canalside Heritage Centre.
TWO historic cottages at Beeston Lock, occupied for more than 200 years by canal workers and their families, are now home to a fascinating heritage centre that combines history, arts and education to bring Beeston’s canal story vividly to life. The Beeston Cut was one of the earliest of Britain’s canals, opening in 1796 during the glory days of ‘canal mania’ and becoming a vital link in the industrial hub of the Midlands and the north. It was canal engineer William Jessop who proposed the building of a new waterway to connect Beeston to Nottingham Canal at Lenton, allowing commercial traffic to bypass the shallow waters of the River Trent and follow a safer, more direct route. An Act of Parliament was passed in 1794, and the canal was completed two years later. It was owned and managed by the Trent Navigation Company until the nationalisation of canals and railways in 1948. The opening of the Beeston Cut quickly brought prosperity to the area. By the beginning of the 19th century a lock keeper’s house and three cottages for canal workers had been built at the side of Beeston Lock, and these were in constant use right up to the 1990s. The 1841 census shows 21 people living there, including nine children under the age of 16. The canal helped support the local industries of silk weaving and lace making, as well as attracting new industry to the area. A major boost came in 1927 when pharmaceutical giant Boots bought a 200-acre site near the Cut and opened a soap factory there two years later. The site is now Boots’ main headquarters and consists of several Grade I and Grade II listed buildings. Two pubs, the Boat Inn (later the Boat and Horses) and the Jolly Anglers, opened during the first half of the 19th century, both serving the local working population as well as the increasing number of visitors who flocked to the area to enjoy this picturesque rural retreat.
The centre was opened by Alice Grundy, who lived in a narrowboat next to the cottages in the 1930s. The railway arrived in Beeston in 1839, but the canal continued to operate successfully for another four decades, only starting to show signs of decline in the late 1870s. The decline continued after the nationalisation of the railways, but the last tenants left the Weir Cottages at Beeston Lock as late as 1996.
officially opened to the public four years later. Today the heritage centre tells the story of the Beeston Cut and its industries, its culture and the tightly knit community of the local canal workers. As you enter the ground-floor room, the wooden beams, wooden furniture and brightly coloured rag rugs instantly transport you back to the canal era and give a sense of how the canal workers lived. Information boards introduce you to the history of Britain’s waterways, the local canals and the heritage centre. A narrow flight of wooden steps takes you to the first floor, where you can find out much more about how people made a living from the canals, with a snapshot of their home and family lives, and how the canals attracted visitors to the area. So popular was Beeston with summer
visitors that a small beach on the River Trent became known as Beeston Lido and was a favourite spot for swimming, paddling and fishing. There is also a detailed timeline of Britain’s canals, film footage and a plethora of photographs, paintings, maps and other ephemera relating to Beeston Cut and the wider canal network. Younger visitors can follow the story of Dog and Duck, who ‘lived on the edge of the Nottingham and Beeston Canal’, through a series of
Start of the Dog and Duck story.
illustrated storyboards. Once you’ve finished exploring the heritage of the Beeston Cut, there’s a small gift shop and tearooms to enjoy!
Canalside Heritage Centre information
Address: 2-3 Weir Cottages, Canal Side, Beeston NG9 1LZ: www. canalsideheritagecentre.org.uk Opening times: daily, 9.30am-4.30pm; free admission Free parking along canalside Getting there: from M1, take exit 25 on to A52, follow signs to Beeston then Beeston Marina. A short walk from Beeston Railway Station and local bus stops. Education workshops for schools: email info@canalsideheritagecentre. org.uk for details
Heritage Lottery Fund
The cottages fell into decline, but in 2011 the Canalside Heritage Centre Charitable Trust was established with a view to restoring these historically important buildings and turning them into a community hub that introduces people to the area’s rich waterways heritage. The trust received funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund in 2013 and the Canalside Heritage Centre
Wall display on the first floor.
The wooden panelling, furniture and brightly coloured rag rugs instantly transport you back to the canal era.
CANAL TRADERS 17
www.towpathtalk.co.uk March 2024
Find whatever floats your boat at a roving traders’ market
THE Roving Canal Traders Association has set out its stall with a list of markets and events its members will attend. The non-profit-making organisation is run to help, support and promote the diverse array of existing and potential Canal & River Trust registered roving traders on the waterways. RCTA has been in existence since 2013 organising floating markets at various canalside venues and sometimes as part of organised canal events. It currently has more than 160 members, many traders living on their boats full time. They make their living selling a wide variety of unique crafted goods, artwork,
drinks and food made and created by themselves onboard their boats. RCTA’s floating markets are open to all. “Come along and get to know the traders and admire the boats,” the association states. “We promise you a lovely few hours out in the fresh air, suitable for families with children and dogs. We’ve even had parrots visit us! “There is disabled access where possible and some interesting purchases to take home. You can also find some of our members trading independently at some larger canal festivals.” You can get more details from the website https://www.rcta.org.uk/events
Roving traders lining the towpath on a glorious day for browsing. PHOTO: RCTA
RCTA’s planned 2024 markets
March 29-April 1 (Easter weekend): Great Haywood; Linslade April 20-21: Willington April 27-28: Marsworth May 4-6 bank holiday weekend (BH): Berkhamsted; Burton-on-Trent May 25-27 (BH): Boxmoor; Stone June 1-2: Trentham June 8-9: Cassiobury Park June 22-23: Atherstone July 6-7: Coventry; Apsley July 26-27: Market Drayton August 24-26 (BH): Milton Keynes
A busy scene at a floating market. PHOTO: PHIL PICKIN
The Roving Canal Traders Association (RCTA) is a non-profit making organisation run to help, support and promote the diverse array of existing and potential Canal and River Trust (CRT) registered roving traders on our waterways. RCTA has been in existence since 2013 organising floating markets at various canal side venues and sometimes as part of organised canal events. We currently have over 165 members. Many traders live on their boats full time and make their living selling a wide variety of unique crafted goods, artwork, drinks and food made and created by themselves on aboard their boats. Our floating markets are open to all, come along and get to know the traders and admire the boats, we promise you a lovely few hours out in the fresh air, suitable for families with children and dogs, we’ve even had parrots visit us! Disabled access where possible and some interesting purchases to take home! Don’t forget you can also find some of our members trading independently at some larger canal festivals. You can get more information from our website www.rcta.org.uk/events.
18 COSGROVE WERGIES
March 2024
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Winter canal camping with the ‘Wergies’ Words & photos: Tim Coghlan
FIVE days of winter canal restoration work, volunteering at the Waterways Recovery Group (WRG) camp on the derelict Buckingham Canal, was a different way of spending the winter break. Facing the challenge of clearing 300m of canal bed and towpath, which probably hadn’t been touched since the canal was abandoned in about 1935, were 28 WRG volunteers, known as Wergies. The average age for this camp was 60 and included four married couples. For the modest sum of £60, they were allocated a bunk bed – taking their own bedding – two full meals and one snack meal a day. Accommodation was provided in the scout building at the canalside village of Cosgrove on the Grand Union Canal. The bunks were in four dormitories, two all-male, one all-female, and one mixed– married couples only! Two couples had brought their own campervans but otherwise joined in for meals and evening socialising which included board games, nattering, or going down to the Barley Mow Inn. With two showers there was an ample supply of hot water and the building had underfloor heating throughout. I was told by IWA volunteers co-ordinator Jenny Hodson that accommodation here was better than at most WRG camps, mainly based at
The cleared middle section makes for a very tidy vista.
Writer Tim Coghlan (left) on the towpath of the old Buckingham Canal, with the line of the canal behind him. With him is wife Liz and dog Mimi joining a group of Wergies who had stopped for a well-earned cuppa. village halls where volunteers sleep on the floor unless they took their own camp bed. Two of the volunteers acted as cooks which was a pretty full-time job. The night before my visit, they had served homecooked lasagne with garlic bread and apple crumble and custard to follow.
Dawn to dusk
The WRG plan was to work outside from dawn till dusk in the bleak midwinter, heedless of the wind and weather, only one afternoon being lost. Official onsite start time was nine, with tools down at three provided there was sufficient light for safe
working. The volunteers carried their hand tools half a mile to and from the site, wheelbarrows only being provided for large heavier tools. On our arrival at the scout building, we met up with Buckingham Canal Society trustee and executive officer Terry Cavender and walked across a large field down to the line of the former canal. He explained that the top end of that field, close to the main Milton Keynes to Northampton road, had now been sold for modern warehousing, with the planning gain including substantial help with the canal restoration project.
This would help fund the building of a new canal, the diversion being necessary because the canal had been cut in the 1960s by the upgraded A5 road from the new town of Milton Keynes to Towcester. Due to the topography of the route, the canal diversion would drop down 11m by two pairs of staircase locks. It would then pass under the A5 by an enlarged existing culvert linked to the River Ouse; then lock up by three locks to rejoin the original canal line for the remaining eight or so miles to Buckingham. A right of access over the land at no cost had already been agreed with the generous landowner and property developer Pete Winkelman, chairman of Milton Keynes Dons Football Club. Beyond the A5 the canal was then in open country and relatively free of obstructions. Terry was hopeful that the full restoration would be completed within 10 years. Our next stop was at Bridge 2, which had been much reduced in height over the years to take heavy farm machinery. While it did not block the canal itself, its lowered bridge-hole would now impede navigation under it. The problem had already been addressed with the restored Bridge 1 and the pressure was now on to sort Bridge 2, as the canal was already back in water to the Grand Union Canal – however shallow.
Volunteers co-ordinator Jenny Hodson with two Wergies and a barrow of logs for distribution.
Two volunteers working on the last 100m of tree and vegetation clearance. The Wergies had only been at it for three and half days, but already more than 200m of trees and vegetation had been cleared from the canal bed and the towpath, revealing the old canal bed. Trees on the non-canal edge of the towpath and the non-towpath side had been pruned, and where
Terry Cavender, trustee and executive officer of the Buckingham Canal Society, points to where the diversion of the canal will probably take place.
dead or diseased they had been removed. It was already starting to look like a canal. Where possible, trees and branches had then been cut into logs, to be given to villagers and liveaboard boaters on the canal at the Grand Union end, who had been so co-operative in moving their boats to allow for dredging works at that end to take place. Long-forgotten canal artefacts revealed by the clearance included a brick-breastwork and paddle winding gear for letting water run out from the canal, when heavy rain required it. The winding gear was in such good condition that, with minimum repair work, it could be reused, having been hidden for more than 85 years. With the completion of the works-in-hand, the towpath would reopen to walkers and cyclists, connecting it to existing footpaths and rights of way to provide a new circular canal walk. I subsequently learnt that the new circular walk is already proving very popular and that the team’s endeavours have inspired new volunteers to join the Buckingham Canal Society.
WHAT’S ON 19
www.towpathtalk.co.uk March 2024
Saturn to star at Easter gathering
SHROPSHIRE Union flyboat Saturn, paired with its new horse Flower, will be joined by dozens of historic boats at the National Waterways Museum in Ellesmere Port, Cheshire. Hosted by the Canal & River Trust, the four-day festival takes place over the Easter Bank Holiday weekend (March 29-April 1). For the first time in many years, the traditional Good Friday convoy from Chester to Ellesmere Port will be led by a horse-drawn boat. Flower and Saturn, along with around 30 historic boats, will leave Chester city centre early on the Friday morning and travel along the Shropshire Union Canal, arriving at the museum between 11am and 1pm. CRT visitor services manager Chris Done said: “It will be brilliant to have a horse-drawn boat leading the Good Friday
Duo Loctup Together will be providing foot-tapping music. festival convoy for the first time in many years. We’re particularly looking forward to seeing Flower towing Saturn through the site and spending the weekend with us giving lock demonstrations.” Located at the junction of the Manchester Ship Canal and the Shropshire Union Canal, the
National Waterways Museum site will stage a wide range of special attractions from craft workshops and children’s activities to steam engines working in the Power Hall. Flower, an eight-year-old mare, will be demonstrating her new towing skills by taking the former Cheshire cheese cargo flyboat Saturn through on-site locks in a series of demonstrations on Saturday and Sunday at 11.45am and 1.45pm.
Rare treasures
Historic flyboat Saturn being pulled by Flower with owner David Ray from Norbury Wharf.
There will also be a chance to see fascinating rare canal treasures at the National Waterways Archive, giving visitors the potential to track down their own longlost family connections to the nation’s historic canal network. The collections team will also be demonstrating the use of new ground-breaking photogrammetry technology,
Volunteers from the Wirral Community Narrow Boat Trust will be giving trips on Over the Rainbow. now providing 3D access to historic artefacts, thanks to a project supported by players of People’s Postcode Lottery. Foot-tapping music will be provided by Loctup Together and Sea Shanty Rebels on Saturday and Sunday between 11am and 3pm, and on all four days, visitors will also be able to enjoy short boat trips along the Shropshire Union Canal, run by volunteers from the Wirral Community Narrow Boat Trust. The museum’s private collections store at nearby Rossfield Road, packed with old waterway treasures, will again
open its doors on Saturday and Sunday for behind-the-scenes tours at 11am and 1pm. Throughout the weekend, work by the Cheshire Artist Network will be on display in the Island Warehouse Gallery, and on Sunday and Monday (11am1pm) Ellesmere Port Model Boat Club will be staging displays in the top basin. Chris added: “For families, there is a special children’s trail, boat-themed playground and face painting. Hopefully this spectacular waterway festival will be the launch of a fabulous summer season for everyone.”
WHAT’S ON IN MARCH
If you want your event listed in our free monthly What’s On section email your entry to editorial@towpathtalk.co.uk or use the events form at www.towpathtalk.co.uk/events Please check with organisers whether the event is going ahead before setting out on your journey. March 3 IWA Towpath Walks Society: Regent’s Canal:
On Instructions of the Canal & River Trust
ONLINE AUCTION
Sale of Surplus Craft, Workshop Machinery, Grounds Equipment & Materials. Sale Closing: Late March 2024 at 13.00 UK Local Time (Date to be Announced) Location: Throughout England & Wales
King’s Cross – Granary Square – Camden. Meet King’s Cross by taxi queue sign next to Pret a Manger at 2.30pm. Nominal charge £15; concessions, students and accompanied children 16 and over £10; 8-15 £5; under 8 free. Prior booking recommended, contact London Walks: 0207 624 3978 or emaillondon@walks. com March 7 IWA Lichfield: Walk – Walton on Trent. An easy
4¾ mile walk on level ground, with no stiles. Meet 10.30am for 10.45am start in the car park of The Swan at Walton, 34 Main Street, Waltonon-Trent, Derbyshire DE12 8LZ. March 8 North Staffordshire & South Cheshire IWA:
Branch AGM followed by Alan Chetwyn’s home movies. Stoke-on-Trent Boat Club, Endon Wharf, Post Lane, Endon, Stoke-on-Trent ST9 9DU, 7.45 for 8pm start. Non-IWA members welcome; admission free (donations to waterway causes welcome), refreshments available. Contact socialsec.nssc@waterways.org.uk March 12 IWA Northampton Branch: AGM and waterway
Orkney ‘Orkadian 20’ Day Boat, 19ft 7ins x 7ft 7ins ‘Aintree’ Wide Beam Workboat 59ft x 13ft(Suitable for Houseboat Conversion) ‘Cloverly’ Workboat 53ft x 6ft 7” (Approx) (No Engine) ‘Clanford’ Workboat 52ft x 6ft 9” (approx.) (No Engine) Seastrike Aluminium Boats Day Boat with Outboard Range of Hoppers Palfinger, Fassi and Atlas Hydraulic Lifting Arms Palfinger Hydraulic Brick Grab Hatz Silentpack Towable Pump
Ifor Williams Car Trailer (for spares or repairs) Woodworking Equipment Startrite Meba ‘S320H’ Horizontal Bandsaws Caterpillar ‘EP20K’ Electric Forklift (Requires Repair) Ingersoll Rand Receiver Mounted Compressors BOC & Cebora Welders John Deere ‘LX279’Ride on Mower Large Quantity of Oak Beams Range of Hand Tools
CATALOGUE IN COURSE OF PREPARATION WITH MORE ITEMS TO BE ADDED See auction catalogue at www.iaservices.co.uk Viewing of Lots only by Appointment (Dates to be announced) For further information please contact Tom Hutchinson on +44 (0)7774 652425 or email tom@iaservices.co.uk Industry Asset Services Ltd, Bitstone, Foxt, Stoke on Trent, Staffordshire ST10 2HN www.iaservices.co.uk
The museum will be open 10am-4pm over the Easter weekend and then five days a week (WednesdaySunday) for the rest of the season. Explorers activities for children will be taking place during the Easter school holidays on Tuesdays and Thursdays (April 2, 4, 9, 11). From May to September, special themed Sundays will feature a range of attractions from Steampunk to Living History and Canal Town. A day devoted to horse-drawn boats will be hosted on Sunday, August 11 and music lovers can enjoy a concert from The Old Time Sailors on the evening of Friday, May 17. The Canal & River Trust would be delighted to hear from anyone interested in volunteering at the museum. For more information about visiting and to book discounted tickets, visit the museum website https:// canalrivertrust.org.uk/ places-to-visit/nationalwaterways-museum
quiz with John Pomfret. 7.30pm. The meetings are held in the upstairs conference room at The Boat Inn, Stoke Bruerne, NN12 7SB. All are welcome, not just IWA members. There is a car park, and refreshments are available. A £2 donation towards expenses would be appreciated. March 15 Pocklington Canal Amenity Society: The
Yorkshire Air Museum and the history of RAF Elvington. Melbourne Village Hall YO42 4QJ from 7pm. Tickets £10 including pie and peas supper. To reserve a seat contact Tim Charlson 07926 910717, tcharlson58@gmail.com also available at www.pocklingtoncanalsociety.org/ shop March 17 IWA Towpath Walks Society: Limehouse –
Thames – Docklands. Meet Westferry DLR by cycle hire point at 2.30pm. Nominal charge
£15; concessions, students and accompanied children 16 and over £10; 8-15 £5; under 8 free. Prior booking recommended, contact London Walks: 0207 624 3978 or emaillondon@walks. com
March 18 Friends of the Cromford Canal: Why was
King Alfred called ‘great’? A talk by Mike Kelley. Ironville Church Hall NG16 5NN, 7.30pm. Admission £2.50, tea, coffee, bar and raffle, Non-members always welcome. March 20 IWA Lichfield Branch: AGM followed by
Photographing the cut, illustrated talk by Margaret Beardsmore. Darwin Hall, Heathcot Place, Lichfield WS13 6RQ, 7.15 for 7.30pm. Basingstoke Canal Society: Railways of Surrey by David Rose, Parish Pavilion on A3046 Station Road, Chobham GU24 8EQ, 8pm. March 29-April 1 Roving Canal Traders Association: Easter
floating markets at Great Haywood (Trent & Mersey Canal) and Linslade (Grand Union Canal). March 31 IWA Towpath Walks Society: Regent’s Canal:
Little Venice – Camden. Meet at Warwick Avenue tube station at 2.30pm. Nominal charge £15; concessions, students and accompanied children 16 and over £10; 8-15 £5; under 8 free. Prior booking recommended, contact London Walks: 0207 624 3978 or emaillondon@walks. com Until April 7 Maria Harryman: Life is not still – Florigeum
exhibition of lino prints, paintings and quilts inspired by the wild plants and changing seasons on the Kennet & Avon Canal. West Berkshire Museum, Gallery 5, Newbury RG14 5AS. Open Wednesdays to Sundays, 10am-4pm. Admission free. Advance notice Whitchurch Canal Trust: The 2024 Whitchurch
Canal Festival will take place on the Whitchurch Arm of the Llangollen Canal on Saturday and Sunday August 31 and September 1. For further information visit www.whitchurchwaterway.uk
20 FAMILY HISTORY
March 2024
www.towpathtalk.co.uk
Family boatyard evolves with each new generation Hainsworths Boatyard continues to thrive thanks to the couple keeping the family legacy alive. Sally Clifford reports…
FOUNDED during the Second World War, the Hainsworths Boatyard was initially constructed on a site further down the Leeds & Liverpool Canal from Bingley’s iconic Five Rise Locks. Kath Higgins, née Hainsworth, recalls her father and godfather purchased their current site in Fairfax Road, bringing them closer to ‘one of the Seven Wonders of the Waterways’ – the steepest locks on the longest canal in the country. It all began with a humble dinghy; this simple pleasure boat sailed on park lakes and seaside jaunts and was the first craft Kath’s father created. “Hainsworths was started in 1939 by my father Leslie, known as Dick, and my godfather, Sam. My father was a joiner, shopfitter and undertaker,” explained Kath. Over the years, the business evolved from creating small craft to building narrowboats as well as providing repairs, restoration, maintenance and moorings along this idyllic stretch of water. However, the main thrust has been transportation – a service Kath’s husband, Peter, whom she met while they were both studying at technical college in Shipley, West Yorkshire, was instrumental in developing. Peter’s engineering background and Kath’s secretarial skills proved a vital component in the boatyard’s progression after Kath’s father died. While Peter ran the wagons transporting boats mainly on land for clients at home and abroad – to countries such as France, Italy and Spain – Kath looked after the logistics.
Kath and Peter Higgins with one of the boats stored in their yard.
V Yachtmaster Certificate, it was the first time he had embarked on such a long and challenging journey over water as it involved him and his team sailing the boat from Glasson Dock in Lancashire across the Atlantic. “Having sailed and been on sea you have got your sea legs, but once you’ve been there for a week and been in bad weather you’re either sick and get over it or you are sick and can’t get over it,” said Peter. It took the team 28 days to reach their transatlantic destination where Peter stayed on for a few weeks and had the opportunity to sail a paddle steamer before flying home.
The beautiful swans that have made Hainsworths Boatyard their home.
Future plans
Reflections
Leafing through the photograph album in the office, Peter reflected on some of the highlights, including the delivery of a 41ft speedboat to Puerto Banús in Spain and a 35ft long narrowboat to France. Earls Court Boat Show and London’s ExCeL are among the high-profile destinations Peter has visited for deliveries. One of Peter’s furthest-flung destinations – and perhaps the most memorable – was a transatlantic trip to the States in the late 1980s. He explained that while he had his
Sitting down in the late summer sun for a brew following the arrival of a boat restoration project, expertly delivered by Chris Wright Ltd of Baildon, Peter and Kath reflected on a life that hasn’t always been easy. “We have worked in winter when it has been ice on the canal and we have been pulling boats out. Somebody would want something doing and it is heaving with rain,” says Kath. Good times always outweigh the bad times and, over the years, boats have brought them plenty of pleasure. “Peter made a bigger dinghy and we went up and down the canal on that. We used to go camping, there were people with cruisers, and we took a tent,” Kath recalled. “The smaller the boat the more fun you have,” added Peter.
Another creative metal feature at Hainsworths Boatyard. PHOTOS: SALLY
CLIFFORD UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED
The speedboat Peter delivered to Puerto Banús. PHOTO SUPPLIED
In recent years the couple say they have noticed demand for both liveaboard and pleasure boats.“There is demand, without doubt. People getting off-grid and that kind of thing,” said Peter. His own project to restore a 38ft steel yacht has stalled. “The idea was to sail it around England, but it’s on the back burner.” When many their age have retired and are taking life a little easier, the couple have no plans to step back and are enjoying carrying on the family legacy – with support from sons Gary and Ian. Gary’s creativity is evident in the quirky on-site metalwork and storage facilities, a row of painted wooden huts and boatshaped seating. Perhaps he will take on the yacht project too? “He has his Yachtmaster’s
The quirky storage spaces created by Kath and Peter’s son Gary. and he has a little sailing boat down in Wales,” said Peter, hopeful the project will eventually get back on track. Running a busy boatyard leaves him little time to focus on his own pursuits – but he and Kath wouldn’t have it any other way. The yard is clearly an extension of their home and a place that holds special significance as they are aware
they are carrying on the family legacy and hope to be doing so for many more years to come. “We’d get bored if we retired,” smiled Kath. Peter added: “It’s a lifetime of experience in learning things about other people, and it’s having the opportunity of doing the things I wouldn’t otherwise have done.” For more information visit www. hainsworthsboatyard.co.uk
Narrowboats have also been transported by Hainsworths Boatyard. PHOTO SUPPLIED
www.towpathtalk.co.uk March 2024
21
22 MARINAS & MOORINGS
March 2024
H HAREFIELD AREFIELD MA MARINA ARINA
Bridge 180, Grand Union Canal, Harefield UB9 6PD Tel: 01895 822036 muskmarine@hotmail.com www.harefieldmarina.co.uk
Facilities include:- Pump out - Chandlery - Boat sales/ - Slipway brokerage (up to 65ft) - Covered wet dock - Engine inboard/ outboard repairs - Water and electric - gas and coal points - Diesel
www.towpathtalk.co.uk
New chandlery and MC order point
• Award winnin ng • Family run • Based on the River Nene in Earls Barton
• Diesel and pump out • Flexible mooringss • Fabulous award winning Boathousse Café • CCC camp site
200 secure, non residential rural moorings in secluded countryside setting 5 mins from M25/M40. One days cruising from the Thames.
TPIF Set in beautiful countryside at the junction of the River Severn & the River Avon in Gloucestershire. Flood protected moorings, water and electric at berths, fuel, pump-out, and staff on hand 7 days a week. Gantry crane and work area for blacking.
MOORINGS AND BOAT SALES For viewings and information please call 01684 293737 or email: sales@tewkesbury-marina.co.uk
Wh hy not come and see for yourself
www.whitemillsmarina.co.uk t: 01604 812057 e: info@whitemillsmarina.co.uk
White Mills Marina, 344, Grendon Road, Earls Barton, Northants NN6 0RB
CCC – New booking system now live on our website
WWW.TEWKESBURY-MARINA.CO.UK Follow Us
Fenny Marina Finding peace away from home
www.thefennymarina.co.uk
office@thefennymarina.co.uk | Fenny Marina Ltd Station Fields Southam CV47 2XD
Tel 01295 770461 ✔ Wi-Fi ✔ Electric & Water ✔ Shower & Toilet ✔ Totally Secure ✔ CCTV ✔ Elsan & 24-hr Pump-out ✔ Diesel, Gas, Coal, Logs, & Kindling ✔ Rural Location ✔ Rubbish & Recycling ✔ Courtesy Lighting ✔ Chandlery ✔ 15 Min drive from M40
MARINAS & MOORINGS 23
www.towpathtalk.co.uk March 2024
KNOWLE MOORINGS BAKERS LANE, SOLIHULL
OFF-LINE 20 BOAT MOORINGS NOW OPEN.
GRAND UNION CANAL, BETWEEN BRIDGES 68 & 69 ALONGSIDE ‘THE BLACK BOY’ PUB & RESTAURANT WATER & ELECTRIC PER BERTH, OPEN ALL YEAR, VERY PICTURESQUE & TRANQUIL SETTING, SAFE & SECURE, COMPETITIVE RATES (60ft - £220pm)
TELEPHONE 07813 156950
Braunston Boats Ltd
In line (stern end to staging) 55 ft min.
Lay by Berths up to 45 ft (stern to bank Annual fee £31.50 per foot plus 20% VAT Monthly fee £2.93 per foot plus 20% VAT Bankside/Staging berths (at least2/3 alongside bank of staging). Annual fee £35.00 per foot plus 20% VAT Monthly fee £ 3.24 per foot plus 20% VAT Casual Moorings £10 per night or £60 per week plus 20% VAT irrespective of length.
braunstonboats@hotmail.co.uk @ 07954071778 Bottom Lock, Dark a Lane, 1 7HJ Braunston NN11
Maximum casual mooring 2 weeks. Car parking £3 per night or £18 per week For barges (any vessel wider than 7ft) Multiply standard price by 1.9
FRADLEY MARINA
07941 167 087
Private, tranquil moorings nestled in the Staffordshire countryside just a stone’s throw from historic Fradley Junction on the popular Trent and Mersey Canal.
• 60 full length moorings • Water and 16amp electric • Modern shower block • Car Parking • Electric Gates • Recycling • Workshop & Slipway • Elsan • WI Fi & CCTV • Laundry • Fuel • Nationwide Boat Sales brokerage Our workshop and slipway is taking bookings for blacking • painting • servicing • surveys • repairs • new boat fit out • interior remodelling • furniture & cabinet making To contact the workshop please call Fradley Narrowboats on 07542 824262 or email fradleyboats@gmail.com
www.fradleymarina.co.uk |
fradleymarina | 07941 167 087
HARTFORD MARINA
THE PERFECT HIDEAWAY
SET WITHIN THE PEACE & TRANQUILLITY OF HUNTINGDONSHIRE
HARTFO RD MARI NA Take a moment to soak in the peace and tranquillity of the Huntingdonshire countryside and experience all that Hartford Marina has to offer. A gateway to the River Great Ouse, the marina is perfectly placed for cruising one of Britain’s lesser discovered waterways, and is ideal for exploring nearby towns and cities. With premium facilities and capacity for all types of boats, from widebeams and narrowboats to day boats and cruisers, Hartford Marina has something for every boater. BE RTH S FOR A L L C R A F T AVAI LA B LE TO RE SE RV E TODAY!
ANNUAL & VISITOR MOORINGS
SLIPWAY AND CRANING FACILITIES
NEW AND USED BOAT SALES
FLOOD PROTECTED MOORINGS
DAY BOAT HIRE & WATERSPORTS
MODERN SHOWER FACILITIES
FAMILY RESTAURANT
PET FRIENDLY
FUEL & PUMPOUT FACILITIES
240V POWER TO EACH BERTH
FREE WIFI
FRESH WATER TO EACH BERTH
B OATS FO R SAL E AT HART FO RD M AR IN A
BOAT B RO KER AG E Tingdene Boat Sales helps boaters at every step of their boating journey. Whether looking to buy or sell a craft, our wide brokerage network, both online and at our UK inland marinas, is yours to utilise. So, if you are in the market for an upgrade or have a boat you wish to sell on or close to the River Great Ouse, contact Hartford Marina and see how we can help you.
COLECRAFT NARROWBOAT • 1998 • £64,950
NARROWBOAT 50’ • 2007 • £58,000
w w w. ti n gd e n eboat i ng . com • 0 1 4 80 4 54677 • h ar tford b o atsale s@tin gd e n e .n et • h ar tfo rdma r i na @ti ngde ne . net
24 MARINAS & MOORINGS
March 2024
www.towpathtalk.co.uk
Roydon Marina Village: Expansion Announcement! We’re thrilled to unveil the upcoming extension of our marina. Nestled just 30 minutes from central London by train, Roydon Marina offers the perfect blend of serene waterside living with urban accessibility.
WHAT TO EXPECT:
WHY ROYDON MARINA?
• State-of-the-art widebeam and narrowboat moorings
• Convenient location near London
• Composite anti-slip walkways for safety • Smart card electric bollards • New facility building with modern bathrooms, laundry, and Elsan • Electric car chargers to support sustainable travel • Recycling bins for a greener environment
• Modern moorings with amenities • Upgraded facilities • On-site Boathouse Café Bar • Improved access and infrastructure • Mooring rates locked until March ‘25 • Community atmosphere • Scenic location
Mooring at Roydon Marina Village is more than having a berth; it's about embracing a fulfilling way of life that seamlessly integrates the best of both worlds – the tranquillity of the waterside with the convenience of a modern lifestyle. The hub of the marina is the Boathouse Café Bar, Roydon’s hidden gem. Situated on the marina front, we welcome guests with everything from artisan coffees, breakfast favourites and light lunches through to hearty evening meals and seasonal specials. Pop in for coffee and cake while enjoying the picturesque surroundings, grab a takeaway drink and snack, or attend our regular events featuring live music, karaoke, comedy and more!
Proudly part of the Lakeland Leisure family * g n i r a free moo
Spain
in the Roydon Marina extension, opening Spring 2024. Scan the QR code and complete a form to enter. Use code “Towpath03” for an extra entry. *Opportunity to win a free mooring within Roydon Marina's extension. Offer available to existing moorers upon renewal and any new customer that registers for an annual mooring. Simply fill in the form to register your interest by 31/03/24. The winner will be announced by the 30th April 2024.
lakelandleisuregroup.com
MARINAS & MOORINGS 25
www.towpathtalk.co.uk March 2024
www.goolemarina.co.uk Email: info@goolemarina.co.uk Tel: 01405 763985
Goole Marina, The Timber Pond, Dutch Riverside, Goole, DN14 5TB
Services:
•Dry Dock •Slipway •Welding •Blacking •Shot Blasting •Engine Servicing •Solar Panel •LPG Gas Safe work •Joinery Services •New Boats •Boat Brokerage •Electrical Work •Painting
Facilities:
•Water/ Electricity •Bottled Calor Gas supplier •Pump out •Laundry room •Heated toilets, Shower room with under floor heating •Licensed bar with outside seating area •Postal address for live aboards •Chandlery •Diesel
Goole Marina is located in a basin connecting to the Aire and Calder Canal and close to the commercial port of Goole in the East Riding of Yorkshire. The marina provides an ideal base for cruising the waterways of Yorkshire as well as giving easy access to the Humber Estuary and the North Sea. We have a marina basin to accommodate 150 boats of various lengths & widths. We can accommodate all types of craft from Cruisers to Narrowboat and Barges. All types of moorings, garden moorings to floating pontoons, which can be accessed 24hrs a day.
Our new Marina Café, Coffee Dock, is now open to the public. Open Monday – Saturday 9am until 3pm. Everyone welcome!
Northampton Marina
The ideal location for exploring East Anglia’s Waterways
Call us on 01604 604344 or 07867 580129 to arrange a visit or to make an enquiry. Office hours: Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm Saturday & Sunday 10am to 4pm www.visitanglianwaterways.org www.northamptonmarina.co.uk Find us on Facebook: Northampton Marina
Nestled alongside Becket’s Park, Northampton Marina has a secluded, countryside feel whilst being within easy walking distance of the train station and town centre with its many shops, bars, restaurants and theatres. Located at the junction of the River Nene and the Northampton Arm of the Grand Union Canal, it is ideally placed for exploring both Anglian Waterways and the wider canal network. Offering boaters a friendly stay with access to a great choice of cruising routes. Our award-winning facilities building is open to all marina customers, including washrooms, laundry, pump-out and Elsan disposal point. All of our berths have access to water and electricity. Our landscaped grounds provide a relaxing recreation area with BBQs and picnic tables. We offer permanent, visitor and winter moorings. You can also purchase your Anglian Waterways boat licences and navigation keys from our full time Site Officer. Why not make Northampton Marina the base for your next boating adventure?
26 MARINAS & MOORINGS
Touring Park
March 2024
www.towpathtalk.co.uk
Glamping Wagons
Sherborne Street, Birmingham B16 8DE 0121 455 6163 / 0121 454 5367 www.sherbornewharf.co.uk or email@sherbornewharf.com
Our boat yard facilities are located canal side, on the main line outside the Distillery
Moorings in the heart of the city Mooring in the centre of Birmingham City
We are in a unique position on the Birmingham Canal Navigations and have berths available close to the city centre serving all types of boaters for overnight, short term and long term moorings.
QUIET AND SECURE MOORINGS BOAT REPAIRS AND MAINTENANCE
GAS, DIESEL AND PUMP OUT
Boat engine service £225.00 Single day empty and refill £250.00 V bottom boat extra charge (at the time of booking you must inform us if your Boat is V-Bottom £100.00 Extra days in the dock if already booked in for blacking or service will be charged at £70 per day Blacking consists of jet washing the hull of the boat down and making sure area is clean and dry, should we find anything of concern we will contact you to inform you. We can offer various blacking products please call us and speak to us. Anodes are £150 per pair and fitting/welding is £60.00 per pair if purchased from us. All other works are charged at £60.00 per hour
Blacking is charged per foot length of the boat 40 FEET 45 FEET 50 FEET 55 FEET 60 FEET 65 FEET 70 FEET 75 FEET
£600 £675 £750 £825 £900 £975 £1,050 £1,125
CONTACT US ON 0121 455 6163 FOR ANY ENQUIRES
MARINAS & MOORINGS 27
www.towpathtalk.co.uk March 2024
EAST MIDLANDS BOAT SERVICES - WILLOW MOORINGS
A marina that offers you a choice
A family owned marina set in rural Worcestershire, but minutes away from the M5, gives all boaters great travel opportunities. The 238 berth marina is located on the Droitwich Canals, ideally situated for great cruising albeit for a short break or long holidays. It is within easy walking distance of the Spa Town of Droitwich.
Moorings Available for cruisers and narrowboats at £4.50 per foot, per month. Residential moorings available at £325.00 per month. Powered slipway for boats up to 40 foot and a second slipway for small boats. Slipway can be hired for DIY work or we offer services for Antifouling, Painting and General Servicing. We also have a Boat Safety Examiner on site. Located on the A6, adjacent to The Otter Public House.
01509 672385 www.eastmidlandsboatservices.co.uk Kegworth, DE74 2EY
Forest Bank Moorings
New flood-safe moorings on the River Avon in the Heart of England Forest For more information contact Mark on 07500 700718 or mark.waterson@heartofenglandforest.org heartofenglandforest.org/moorings Welford Road, Barton, Bidford-on-Avon, Warwickshire B50 4NP
This marina offers you ■ Security for you and your boat ■ Full length jetties, in a non flood environment ■ First class facilities, including luxury shower block and launderette ■ Shop and Chandlery
■ Elsan, Pumpout, Diesel, Water ■ Boat Blacking options available ■ Hardstanding, Service Area, and Cranage Pad facilities ■ Calor Gas Stockist ■ Caravan Motorhome CL site
www.droitwichspamarina.co.uk Tel: 07970 626807 or 01905 317250
Hill Farm Marina
South Stratford Canal The View Restaurant is now fully open www.theview-eat.co.uk • Enjoy private access to a traditional 200 acre beef and sheep farm • Dogs run free in designated areas. • Watch the changing seasons, the wildlife and the animals on the farm • Enjoy the complete peace, freedom and tranquillity of being in the countryside • Access some great lock free cruising for day trips, weekend or longer voyages • Easy access to the motorway network • Onsite laundry, Hairdressers and Dog Grooming
It goes without saying....
Droitwich Spa Marina Ltd Hanbury Road, Droitwich Spa, Worcestershire WR9 7DU info@droitwichspamarina.co.uk Tel: 01905 317250 Mobile: 07970 626807 www.droitwichspamarina.co.uk
• A secure place to moor your boat, and park your car • Luxurious showers, communal areas, pump out and fuel etc. • Free unlimited WIFI • Electricity and water connections • Extra wide pontoons available
Please watch the progress www.hillfarmmarina.co.uk email info@hillfarmmarina.co.uk or call David on 07971 118953
28 MARINAS & MOORINGS / PRODUCTS & SERVICES
March 2024
Hempsted Historic Dry Dock 50% OFF DRY DOCK SPACES E AVAILABL ! W O N CALL
UP TO
ANODES W ALL HULL BL ITH & ANTIFOUL ACKING ING. FOR A QUOT CALL ATION TODAY
Blisworth Marina Cruising mooring - Go cruising for 3 months and get 20% discount Pay for 2 years and get a discount of 10% on 2nd year
• Hull Blacking & Antifouling • Fabrication & Repairs • Painting & Sign Writing • Electrical • Plumbing and Gas • Paint and Boat Care • Inboard & Outboard Servicing • Fenders and Ropes • Engine Spares & Repairs
Visit us and see the largest Indoor working dry dock and well stocked Chandlery on the Gloucester and Sharpness Canal You’ll find us just 1 mile along the canal from Gloucester Docks or at
338 BRISTOL ROAD, GLOUCESTER GL2 5DH
01452 415430
Email: office@hhdd.co.uk www.hempsteddrydock.co.uk
Widebeam berths available
For Boat Sales please visit our website Blisworth Arm NN7 3FG www.blisworthmarina.co.uk info@blisworthmarina.co.uk 01604 879827
Discover Our Idyllic Retreat & Enjoy Summer With an abundance of wildlife, peace, tranquillity and our experienced team on hand, you can relax and enjoy your own little piece of heaven. Secure your berth on the Llangollen Canal, the most beautiful canal in the country! Call 01270 524571 or email sales@swanleybridgemarina.com Swanley Bridge Marina, Springe Lane, Swanley, Nantwich, Cheshire, CW5 8NR - www.swanleybridgemarina.com
www.towpathtalk.co.uk
PRODUCTS & SERVICES 29
www.towpathtalk.co.uk March 2024
Woodworks Boat Fitting
CLEANING’S A PLEASURE WITH MIRACLE LEISURE! LADDER-MATE
COMBINATION RESCUE LADDER/GANGPLANK
Bespoke boats to any stage of completion • Repair and alteration service Wheelhouses and dogboxes made to order
VISIT OUR WEBSITE
www.boat-fitting.co.uk PHOTOS - VIDEOS - INFORMATION Unit 72, Road B, Boughton Ind. Est. New Ollerton, Notts. NG22 9LD 01623 860 553 email: info@boat-fitting.co.uk Proprietor: Andrew C. Hooke B.A. (Hons)
Have you fallen into the water and struggled to get out? Most accidents happen in or around locks. Getting out of the water is hard with wet heavy clothes. The bank sides are high and no hand holds to get out. This versatile lightweight (LADDER-MATE) stores securely on your roof with the free ladder lock supplied. £125 + £30 p&p to any location on UK mainland or free collection (Please call us)
A FULL RANGE OF CLEANING PRODUCTS
Brass-mate (Brass polish) Miracle Wax Polish (Boat polish) Wash’n’Wax (Shampoo) Miracle Brass Brite (Tarnish Remover) Weather-Mate Gel (Brass Protection) Port Hole Mask (Magnetic)
Cotton Stockinette (Cleaning Cloths) Canopy Klean Bilge & Hull Cleaner Full range of Tiller Pins
Over 100 tillerpins in stock visit www.tillerpins.co.uk www.miracleleisureproducts.co.uk e: sales@miracleleisureproducts.co.uk Telephone: 01902 686569 or Dawn 07909 086868
BROLLY-MATE
Hands-free attachment that slides over the tiller bar. This is an attachment that slides over the tiller bar when it is raining and you can pop the brolly in the top of the tube secured by a thumb screw. Choice of sizes.
from
£25 + p&p
PROP-MATE Keeps your weedhatch clear
Half cleaned mushroom
£22 + p&p
W essex essex Wessex
Chemical cal FFactors actors C hemiical Chem EEs sst 998 Est. EEst. stt. t.. 11983 11983 19 9883 833
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440 0y years ears
to all our customers, suppliers, friends and family for supporting us over the last 40 years! smlmarinepaints.co.uk
01285 862 132
PREMIUM PRODUCTS FORMULATED BY EXPERTS FOR THE ULTIMATE PROTECTION & FINISH
30 PRODUCTS & SERVICES
S
TR
E
March 2024
AY E TH
WHARF
Coventry Canal
Lichfield
LT
D
Your One Stop Shop for all your boating needs Steelwork | Stretching | Chandlery | Timber Work | Shot Blasting asting Mechanics | Boat Safety | Electrics | Paintwork | Gas Safe | Cranage C
Highest Quality work at a Traditional Working boatyard
7
DAY CALL OUT
Bottom Blacking | Full DIY service available 3 day slip, undercover plus 3000 psi hot wash £317.00 + VAT Telephone 01543 414808/07824 848444 office@streethaywharf.co.uk www.streethaywharf.co.uk
J.D. BOAT SERVICES GAILEY LTD
The W har f, W at l i ng St , G ai l ey , St af f s ST1 9 5 PR 01902 791811 en q@ j d b o at s . co . u k www. j dboat s . c o. uk
SPECIAL ISI NG IN BO AT RESTO RATIO N & REP AI R Cabi n Ref i t s W o odwor k Pa i n t wo r k St eel wor k
En g i n e s El ec tr i c s Sol ar Panel s Hy b r i d Pr o pu l s i o n HARDST AND ING DI Y F ACIL IT I ES STO RAG E
F.O.C. no obligation measure & sample viewing at your boats. Centrally located for your convenience.
PLEASE NOTE:
01827 313334
info@elitefurnishings.co.uk
Our standard curtain lining includes a Teflon finish for added protection from moisture and soiling
www.towpathtalk.co.uk
PRODUCTS & SERVICES 31
www.towpathtalk.co.uk March 2024
Your needs . . . Seagoing
Saildrives
Inland Waterways
Marine Generating Sets
Spares & Support
36 years of customer centred focus, listening to needs and delivering long term value solutions. Specialists in customer advice and support at all points of a products life. Superb after-sales service via our network of approved engine installers and spares stockists.
D I E S E L
14 to 98 HP Greenline keel cooled diesel propulsion engines with mechanical or hydraulic gearboxes. Full hydraulic drive option available. Super silent acoustic housings, 3.5 or 5.0 kVA travel power and bow thruster options available. REDUCE CO2 BY 90%! Compatible for continuous use with HVO fuel.*
H Y B R I D
43 to 98 HP Greenline keel cooled diesel propulsion engines with single or twin 48v hybrid electric drive motor/generator(s).
*If other FAME bio fuels are used or mixed we strongly advise use of our alternative fuel kit option. Available for new or retro fit-able to existing engines.
E L E C T R I C
NEW Beta 14 E-Drive, 14kW constant electrical propulsion power. Fully integratable with 48v battery management inverter charger systems. Fully integratable with BetaGen/BetaSet generators.
5 year self-service warranty, recreational use only terms & conditions apply.
. . . our tailored solutions
delivering reliability and peace of mind
www.betamarine.co.uk
Tel: +44 (0)1452 723492 Email: sales@betamarine.co.uk
WHEREVER YOU GO, YOU CAN COUNT ON EBERSPACHER TO KEEP YOU WARM
DIESEL HEATING FOR BOATS Servicing Spare parts Technical Help System Design
HYDRONIC HS3 D4E HEATER This latest heater is now in stock. 4.3kW output and only 1.3kW at low, ideal for narrowboats. Kits from £1760.00
LEADING UK SUPPLIER OF EBERSPACHER HEATERS & SPARE PARTS
HYDRONIC D4WSC EXCHANGE SERVICE For only £560.00 receive one of our factory reconditioned units when you send us your old, non functioning D4WSC or D5WSC*.
*Service exchange T&Cs apply
CALLSTART APP
Control your heater through your phone
Easy installation. Simple on/off. Run time settings. iPhone & Android SMS notification. £159.00 SIM not included.
Espar Ltd T 01752 491900 web@espar.co.uk www.eberspacherdirect.com www.espar.co.uk
32 PRODUCTS & SERVICES
March 2024
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ONLY
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Mods & Rockers
by Gareth Brown Explore the genesis of both movements right through from their conception to the cell splitting that separated them.
Old So Kool 2 – The lost Years
The Rise and Fall of King Coal by Nick Pigott
From its origins in prehistoric swamps to its early primitive mining methods and to coal’s role as the mineral that fuelled the Industrial Revolution.
How to.. Grow food for your kitchen Over 50 original, mouthwatering recipes from Kitchen Garden magazine’s resident chef Anna Cairns-Pettigrew.
ONLY
£40
By Paul Pilgrim and Steven O’Hara Explore a second treasure trove of beautiful graffiti pieces – many of them having lain dormant and unseen for decades.
£14.99
The Opium Eaters
by Stephen Carver Discover the impact of opium abuse on the literature and politics of the 19th century.
Secret Projects of ONLY £35 the Luftwaffe
by Daniel Uhr & Dan Sharp Discover the competitions and requirements which produced innovative and unusual designs during WW2 and view the original German construction sketches.
ORDER NOW: www.mortonsbooks.co.uk Or call 01507 529529
WANT TO HEAR ABOUT OUR LATEST BOOKS?
Mortons Media Group is preparing to launch a new range of non-fiction books from railway, military and aviation history to consumer issues, hobbies, crime, and politics. If you would like to hear more about our upcoming book releases and special offers, sign up to our newsletter.
JOIN OUR BOOK CLUB! AND RECEIVE 10% OFF! To view the privacy policy of MMG Ltd (publisher of Mortons Books) please visit www.mortons.co.uk/privacy
PRODUCTS & SERVICES 33
www.towpathtalk.co.uk March 2024
L R I N A arine E T m S
FOR ALL YOUR BOATING NEEDS
WHAT'S IN THE BOTTOM OF YOUR FUEL TANK? More & More customers are frequently complaining they have had their tank cleaned by a competitor, only to break down again. They call Tankbusters who attend and take samples from the tank and find the fuel still has water / diesel bug and rust in the tank. Clearly a COWBOY JOB. Tankbusters filter to One Micron & Removes water to 100ppm
Used one micron filter bag & 100ppm water removal filters with saturated diesel being filtered
UPVC TANKS
CALL TANKBUSTERS FOR MORE INFORMATION.
Water & effluent tanks, battery boxes, shower trays
ANY SHAPE & SIZE MANUFACTURED
Tankbusters filter first by magnet removing larger particles of rust! Fuel/other contamination is then filtered to a 1 micron filter bag. Water filters remove water to 100 parts per million (ppm) using tankbusters own filtration equipment.
Magnet filter bowl
Rust on magnet
Rust & diesel bug on magnet.
GO TO:- www.tankbusters.co.uk - for full details of Fuel Cleaning Services and Equipment. Call 07974 808277 or email: bruce@tankbusters.co.uk
Call today for a free no obligation quote
Engine Service – Fixed Price £185.00 inc VAT (Using our own brand filters)
Call 01299 877222 for details
DISTRIBUTORS & STOCKISTS FOR MAJOR BRANDS FULL BOAT YARD SERVICES
DIESEL, GAS, SOLID FUEL & PUMPOUTS ENGINE REPAIR, SERVICING, REPLACEMENT ALL MARINE ENGINEERING SERVICES INTERNAL REFITS, IMPROVEMENTS, REPAIR ELECTRICS, WATER, GAS, HEATING INSTALLATIONS
Ownashare manages a fleet of narrowboats which operate on a shared ownership basis. This means that owners of 1/12th shares can enjoy at least 3–4 weeks’ holiday afloat each year, school holiday weeks are available at a small premium.
Tel: 07800 902323 for more details
www.ownasharecruising.co.uk
DIESEL TREATMENT PRODUCT
SMARTAWOOD: UK ECO-POSITIVE PLASTIC
Smartawood™️ lifelong recycled plastic lumber - the ideal environmental solution for waterway projects.
FOR YOUR CHANDLERY NEEDS
OIL, FUEL, AIR FILTERS & BELTS ENGINE SPARES, ANTIFREEZE & COOLANTS BATTERIES, INVERTERS, ELECTRICAL SPARES FULL RANGE OF DECK & CABIN FITTINGS ALL SPARES & CONSUMABLES
Shared ownership the affordable way
HANKOOK BATTERIES
With a BBA accreditation for similar applications requiring 120 year lifespan, Wey and Arun Canal Trust insist on Smartawood in a range of project applications. Smartawood is carbon negative, waterproof, infestation and rot free, and does not leach harmful chemicals into waterways. Smartawood offers low slip risk for walkways, decking, bridges, and boardwalk applications. Smartawood is the optimal solution reducing the requirement for imported timber (and associated deforestation and huge carbon footprint).
Our product range includes:
ELSAN PRODUCTS
ENGINE LANE, STOURPORT, WORCS DY13 9EP 01299 877222 enquiries@starlinenarrowboats.co.uk Open: Mon/Fri (8.30am to 4.30pm) Emergency breakdown: 01299 877222 - 7 days a week
• Planks, posts, joists, and boards • Fencing, decking, boardwalks • Revetments • Picnic tables and benches • Planters • Storage boxes and bins • Shelters and sheds • Bespoke design and build service
Call or email now: 01745 827000 paul.segal@plastecowood.com www.plastecowood.com
Plastecowood Ltd, Unit 2, Expressway Business Park, Abergele Road, Bodelwyddan, Rhyl, North Wales, LL18 5SQ.
34 PRODUCTS & SERVICES
FULLY SERVICED CRUISING AND RESIDENTIAL MOORINGS AND FULL BOATYARD SERVICES • Iver (Slough Arm) and Northolt (Paddington arm) • Secure sites with private parking • Delivery of gas, solid fuel and diesel direct to your boat • Electricity, water, elsan and pump out • Showers and laundry • Chandlery • Mechanical, electrical, and carpentry work undertaken • Craning, grit blasting and blacking • Two part epoxy hull treatment • Fuel polishing service
sales@high-line.co.uk 01753 651496 www.high-line.co.uk THE BOATYARD MANSION LANE, IVER, SL0 9RG
March 2024
www.towpathtalk.co.uk
NARROWBOATS AND WIDEBEAMS FOR SALE IN WEST LONDON FOR SELLERS • Free moorings • Sales location with established footfall • Open 6 days / week • Trade Plates for unlicensed craft • Pre sales preparation and repairs FOR BUYERS • Free guidance and advice • Comprehensive handover • Secure clients bank account • ABYA qualified brokerage staff • Industry standard documentation PRIVATE BUYER’S SERVICE • If you are buying privately, we can offer the following services: • Advice on all aspects of purchase • Provision of documentation • Secure Clients bank account • Bespoke service – as much or as little as you want, priced accordingly
kb@vcmarine.co.uk 01753 652502 / 07860 480079 www.vcmarine.co.uk
PRODUCTS & SERVICES 35
www.towpathtalk.co.uk March 2024
TRAVELSAT ✆ 07914 401 036
ON BOAT HAVEN OTHERT
✉ smhicks@btinternet.com
Facilities include:
www.travelsat.me.uk
MOBILE 3G/4G/5G Wi-Fi SYSTEM
Moorings, Slipway Hull Blacking & Maintenance Workshop, Brokerage Gas / Diesel / Coal / Pumpout Engine Repairs & Servicing
SATELLITE PACKAGES
The powerful antenna has been designed specifically for Boats and Motorhomes, optimised to work in rural and remote locations. excludes data SIM card
PACKAGE 1
£375
SATELLITE DISH £150 MAGNETIC MOUNT £25 TWIN LNB £20 ROAM Automatic Satellite Dish ROAM X
£370 £570 £900 £570
ROAM 5G THE FLEX
Opening Hours:
Monday - Friday 9am - 1pm Saturday 10am - 1pm Closed Sunday
VU Cube £875 VU Cube (Sky Q) £950 £50 Roof Fixing Kit
Mobile: 07581 459309
Available in White & Grey
SATELLITE FINDERS SAT FINDER KIT
Email: info@othertonboathaven.co.uk
£50
Otherton Boat Haven Ltd, Otherton, Penkridge, Stafford ST19 5NX
HORIZON SAT FINDER
£350
PACKAGE 2
£589
• Manual Satellite Dish • Freesat HD Box with own TV • Sat Finder Kit • Manual Satellite Dish • 18” TV/DVD/SAT • Sat Finder Kit
PACKAGE 3
(Plus fitting at your location)
£689
• Manual Satellite Dish • 24” TV/DVD/SAT • Sat Finder Kit
SATELLITE RECEIVERS FREESAT HD £175 FREESAT HD PVR+ £250
PACKAGE 4
£1100
AVTEX TVs
£1414
• Fully Auto Satellite Dish • Freesat HD Box • With own TV • Fully Auto Satellite Dish • 21” TV/DVD/SAT
LCD/DVD/SAT 18”TV/DVD/SAT 21”TV/DVD/SAT 24”TV/DVD/SAT 32”TV/SAT
£389 £439 £489 £439
PACKAGE 5
FITTING SERVICE AT YOUR LOCATION
Three year warranty 12 & 240 VOLT POWER LEADS SUPPLIED
New Avtex Connect Smart TV’s p.o.a
Find the right satellite in seconds
moorings • boat sales chandlery • marina services
Countrywide
To include cable and connectors, plus a demonstration showing you how to set up your new system
at www.eveshammarina.co.uk
Belisama - Cruiser
£44,950
• 57’ x 6’10” • 2 Berth • 2002
A 2002, 57ft, cruiser style narrowboat with reverse layout, Galley through to open plan saloon with TV to port, multifuel stove in mid ships with storage behind, through to walk through bathroom with pump out toilet, through to bedroom with small fixed double.
UP TO 6
MONTHS FREE MOORING
Monty - Semi Traditional £67,950 • 57’ x 6’10” • 2 Berth • 2008
A much loved and well maintained 2008, 57ft semi traditional boat, built by Equinox and professionally fitted out, Brief layout is Galley to the fore, saloon, bathroom, engine room and then bedroom, Bsc 2026 and last blacked 2022, A mooring is available if required.
on selected Stock Boats
Subject to terms and conditions
Contact Marc or visit www.eveshammarina.co.uk today! Evesham Marina Kings Road • Evesham • WR11 3XZ info@eveshammarina.co.uk
01386 768500
36
March 2024 www.towpathtalk.co.uk
NIGEL CARTON BSS
Completely independent. Good rates and a friendly service. Areas covered:
2,3,5,6,7,8,9,10 Call: 07989 388109 Email:
nigel.carton@btinternet.com DELTA MARINE SERVICES
Marine Surveying
♦ Pre-Purchase Condition Survey ♦ Valuation ♦ Insurance Condition Survey ♦ New Build/Conversion Project Supervision & Consultancy ♦ Damage Assessment ♦ Litigation Advice & Claim Assessment ♦ Areas covered 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 & 14
• Boat Safety Examinations inc. commercial craft • All gas repairs & fittings Offering over 30 years experience WITHIN A 30 MILE RADIUS OF BIRMINGHAM
Thomas Tighe 07973 321997 tomtighe@hotmail.com
Pete Davidson BSS Examiner Most private craft examined. East Midlands based. Areas covered 5, 6, 7, 9, 10,11
Mob. 07831 355543 Tel. 01926 499337
www.delta-marineservices.co.uk
07988 739136 pete@bss-examiner.co.uk www.bss-examiner.co.uk
Cetec Marine
RHYS KILLIN
Est. 1992
A friendly and professional fully insured service Steel, GRP & Timber craft Pre-purchase surveys Insurance surveys Valuations Ultrasonic Testing
Dip.S.C.Sur
BSS Examiner BSS Examination from £160
Phone Chris Holmes 07860 254369 01784 464899
surveyors@cetec.co.uk www.cetecmarine.co.uk
Covering areas 2, 3, 5, 6, 7
Areas Covered 10, 12, 13, 14, 15
rhys_k1@yahoo.co.uk www.rhyskillin.co.uk
Narrowboat Surveyor
& Boat Safety Examiner
Michael Clarke
Dip.S.C. Sur AMIMarEST Areas covered: 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14 • A Friendly and Professional Service • Fully Qualified & Insured • Ultrasonic Pre-purchase & Hull Condition Surveys • No travelling Charges - All areas covered Northampton based
01604 858 868 07944 856 351
info@northernstarmarine.co.uk www.northernstarmarine.co.uk
Need a Survey or Boat Safety Examiner?
Tel 07748 861795
Dave Freeman
Over 25 years experience on the inland waterways
Marine Surveys & BSS Examinations For a Competitive Quote & Prompt Service
Tel 07918 677782
Covering all Areas Based Bridge 69 Trent & Mersey Canal dave.freeman@boatsafety schemeexaminations.co.uk
Services
is an independent company providing professional and comprehensive support services to Narrowboats and Inland Waterways vessels.
Based in Northamptonshire we are ideally placed to offer our services. Our services include: • Hull condition, Pre-purchase, Insurance and Valuation surveys. (Accredited YDSA member) • Marine consultancy. Northamptonshire and surrounding areas. AREA COVERED: 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 14
07903 945196 boats@jgmarine.co.uk www.jgmarine.co.uk
MARK
Alan Buckle Boat Safety Scheme
EDWARDS
Examiner
MABSSE
Boat Safety Scheme Examiner
All classes of vessels examined Landlords’ Gas Safety Certificates Caravans, RV’s and domestic properties
Tel 07970 384047 Areas covered: 2, 4, 5
Robert W. Burton BEng(Hons), GradIIMS, MIET
Marine Surveyor & BSS Examiner Surveys, BSS examinations, valuations and consultancy Scotland & Northern England, Areas 16, 1, 2 & 3.
Mob: 07794 862 022 Email: robert@burtonmarine.com
www.burtonmarine.com
Independent friendly service Covering the Midlands and surrounding areas.
07856 686363
bsswithalan@gmail.com
STEVE SIMCOE BSS EXAMINER NORTHAMPTONSHIRE AND SURROUNDING AREA PHONE/TEXT: 07860 943714 EMAIL: bimsimcoe@gmail.com FOR A PROMPT SERVICE
MIDLANDS BOAT SURVEYS Contact: 07754 058590
UK Enterprise Awards Winner Marine Surveying Services 2023 - Midlands
All types of surveys undertaken BSS certification partners Fully Insured services Comprehensive reports AREAS COVERED: 2,3,5,6,7,9,10,11
BSS Examiner, Marine Surveyor & Marine Technical Consultant
Surveyor: Tom Crosby www.midlandsboatsurveys.co.uk Email: info@midlandsboatsurveys.co.uk
BOB HURST TO Your Local BSS Examiner ADVERTISE based at HERE South Kilworth CALL TANIA ON 07720Phone: 424396 Email: 01507 robert.hurst.bss@ btinternet.com 529489 Areas Covered 9 & 10
PRODUCTS & SERVICES 37
www.towpathtalk.co.uk March 2024
MAINTENANCE & REPAIR WORK UNDERTAKEN AT ANGLO WELSH
• Full Professional Painting Service • Welding
• Electrical Works • Plumbing • Engine Repairs
• Gas Works
• Plating
• Engine Servicing
• Gas, Diesel & Pumpout
• Engine Replacements • Stern Gear Repair & Replacement • Hull Blacking
• Covered Dry Dock & Workshop
Fully qualified, experienced and conscientious staff, providing quality work at a fair price.
Situated at 5 locations across England & Wales
Telephone: 0117 304 1122
Kate Boats
One stop shop for your boat! The same skills that keep our hire boat fleet running reliably and looking good can be available for your boat. • Blacking • Welding • General engineering • Engine servicing • Engine replacement • Painting from touch up to a complete repaint • Electrical repairs and installations • Gas safe engineer on site • Heating repairs and replacement • Internal repairs and refit • BSS and hull surveys organised
Bookings for all aspects of work now being taken for 2024
www.kateboats.com 01926 492968
38 INSURANCE & FINANCE / PRODUCTS & SERVICES
Over 10,000 claims paid to 100% owner satisfaction
£40,000 £50,000 £60,000 £70,000 £80,000 £100,000 £150,000
from from from from from from from
March 2024
£72.00 £85.00 £99.00 £107.00 £115.00 £155.00 £235.00
Lowest rates for qualifying owners www.newtoncrum.com
01424 718800
65 years of excellence, providing better boat insurance. Authorised & regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority # 307035
www.towpathtalk.co.uk
Traditional boatyard, with traditional values The Wharf, NORBURY JUNCTION Staffordshire ST20 0PN Telephone: (01785) 284292 E-mail: info@norburywharfltd.co.uk
One stop shop for all your boating needs
DRY DOCKING AND BLACKING from £20.00 per foot. Now taking bookings for Summer 2024 onwards
Liveaboards are welcomed
- Easy access to the boat is provided by our specially constructed bridge which reaches out to either the bow or stern of your boat. Free 240V hook-up is provided while the boat is out of the water.
CRICK BOAT SHOW IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER, DON’T FORGET TO BOOK YOUR ADVERTISEMENTS NOW! Pre-Crick Issue - May ’24. Deadline: Weds 10th April Crick Issue (Distributed at the show) - June ’24. Deadline: Weds 8th May. Post-Crick Issue - July ’24. Deadline: Weds 12th June
TURN TO
PAGE 55 T
O VIEW RANGE OF OUR BOAT FOR SALE S
❖ LIVEABOARDS WELCOME ❖ DOGS AND CATS NO PROBLEM ❖ FREE ELECTRICITY WHILST ON THE DOCK
www.norburywharfltd.co.uk
TRADER INSIDER 39
www.towpathtalk.co.uk March 2024
P40-41 Sustainable boating P42-43 including heat pumps P44
Holidays & Leisure Technical
Tickets now on sale for Crick Boat Show
ADVANCE tickets are now on sale for Crick Boat Show, which begins with a Trade & Preview Day sponsored by Haven Knox-Johnston on Friday, May 24. Showcasing the inland waterways industry with over 200 exhibitors, there will be more than 30 new boats to view. Show director Peter Johns said: “Our Trade & Preview Day is exclusively designed for those who want to speak with boating-related exhibitors – from boat builders to equipment suppliers. “Friday, May 24 offers a maximum of 1000 pre-booked visitors the opportunity to talk in-depth with these companies and to see the boats before everyone else.” The show will be open from noon until 6pm for Preview Day visitor ticket
holders and from 10am to 6pm for pre-registered trade visitors. Tickets for the Trade & Preview Day are only available in advance and are priced at £27.50 each. Preview Day visitors will have access to an exclusive online bookings system which will open in early May for boat viewings on the Friday when visitors will also receive a gift bag and a free hot drink. Advance tickets to the Crick Boat Show, which takes place at Crick Marina near Daventry over the late May bank holiday weekend (May 25-27) represent a 10% saving on gate prices. For more information visit www. crickboatshow.com or call 01283 742970, Monday to Friday 9am to 3pm.
Hybrid propulsion pioneers launch new company BARRUS and Hybrid Marine are joining forces in a new hybrid propulsion systems company, Hybrid Marine International. This venture takes their 14-year partnership to the next level in the drive to support the Government’s strategic vision for a clean maritime sector in the UK by 2050. Since 2010, Barrus and Hybrid Marine have been working together in the development of hybrid propulsion systems based on Yanmar marine diesel engines, a global standard in sailboat and small craft propulsion. “We are pleased to announce this joint
venture, delivering on our commitment to support green marine power expectations,” said Graham Knox, chief executive of Barrus Ltd. “Hybrid Marine International has been established to design, manufacture and sell hybrid propulsion systems for applications including inland canal boats, commercial barges and sailing boats. “The joint venture cements our successful collaboration thus far, and we look forward to working together to
unlock the potential of our combined expertise.” Hybrid Marine has been developing advanced hybrid systems since 2002, pioneered by the leading hybrid development engineer, Graeme Hawksley. The first company in the world to introduce a production parallel hybrid system to the marine sector, Hybrid Marine’s awardwinning patented power and propulsion solution system is the result of extensive research and is well-proven.
Graeme Hawksley (left), of Hybrid Marine International, with Graham Knox, chief executive, Barrus. IMAGES SUPPLIED
Riverside moorings at Evesham Marina.
Busy year ahead for Evesham Marina team A DEVELOPMENT programme under way on the moorings at Evesham Marina in Worcestershire is making good progress. New electric bollards, insulated water supply and non-slip decking are all part of the upgrade, after which the focus will be on the completion of 10 new riverside moorings, aimed for completion midway through the year. The sales relationship with Collingwood boats continues with sales of stock boats from the marina, along with new customer boats in build at the factory,
The company’s customer base has grown to include leading UK canal boat builders, such as Braidbar Boats, European commercial craft operators, Aister (Spain) ‘Pelican’ vessels and exponential growth in the luxury catamaran market with Antares Catamarans, Max Cruise Marine and Hudson Yacht Group, whose HH44 Sport Cruiser is Sailing World’s Boat of the Year 2024. Graeme Hawksley explained: “When we first started investigating marine hybrids, the market for these systems did not exist. Apart from a few early adopters, hybrids were viewed as blue sky products, something for the future rather than now. Finally, in 2024, ‘the future is now!’ “Our next stage on the journey is to scale up to meet the demand we have helped to generate. Hybrid Marine and Barrus both have considerable experience in hybrid systems. The natural next step is to combine forces and I am delighted to be part of this new and exciting joint venture.” Hybrid Marine International will continue to provide custom packages to OEM boat builders in the UK and across the world who wish to offer hybrid technology to their customers requiring new boat builds in the leisure and commercial markets. Barrus is committed to maintaining Hybrid Marine International’s position as a leader in hybrid technology and the continued investment in its Bicester-based engineering facility. Further significant investments in production facilities have been made to support the growth and development of hybrid propulsion systems. www.barrus.co.uk www.hybrid-marine.co.uk
some customers taking advantage of a boat with a new riverside mooring. Sales and development manager Marc Griffin said: “Our boat brokerage has had a good start to the year, and we not only sell on behalf of customers, but we also buy boats ourselves and this has proved popular recently, giving the customer peace of mind of a quick sale and instant cash. “Our service department has been busy completing some major projects over the winter and our ability to offer a wide variety of services is always popular with customers. This
New non-slip decking around the pontoons. PHOTOS: EVESHAM MARINA
includes the craning in and out of most vessels on the River Avon and we can also arrange things such as onward transport should the need arise.” Evesham Marina has been an authorised
Webasto partner since 2008 and this continues with its Webasto website, a dedicated training facility and a service van, all backed up by its service team. www.eveshammarina.co.uk www.webastomarine.co.uk
Mercia Promenade plans get the thumbs up PLANNING approval has been granted for the long-awaited Promenade development at Mercia Marina at Willington in Derbyshire. This luxury complex will comprise 8500sq ft of retail and cafe/restaurant space and a limited number of 2-3 bedroom residential apartments overlooking the 77-acre destination. Interest is already being received from prospective homeowners according to sales and marketing manager Tony Preston, who said names were being added to the list daily. “Retailers are equally enthusiastic about becoming part of the vibrant shopping hub already thriving at the marina that enjoys over 800,000 visitors a year,” he said. The new building will integrate
with the award-winning Boardwalk and Piazza buildings, enhancing the overall appeal of the popular site. It will showcase oversailing roof lines and wooden cladding based on the ancient Japanese technique of Shou Sugi Ban for wood preservation to mirror the natural landscape. The apartments come to market for purchase off-plan this spring and early registrants will have the opportunity to reserve their preferred unit. The conservation park is also home to more than 50 luxury holiday lodges, with plots available for new lodges built to order, for use as a holiday home or to let as a source of income. A limited number are available immediately with a secluded outdoor area, including private hot tub, that is called Mercia Retreats.
An impression of how the Promenade development will look. IMAGE: BI DESIGN ARCHITECTURE
40 SUSTAINABLE BOATING
March 2024
www.towpathtalk.co.uk
Can heat pumps be a viable alternative form of heating?
With boat owners often having a close connection with the natural world, it isn’t surprising to learn that many are looking to do their bit to decarbonise the waterways. By Phil Pickin
AN increasing number of waterway users are looking to use HVO fuel or to fit more solar panels to reduce their need to run generators or engines. And with councils now being able to prosecute boat owners who burn wood and coal in their stoves, thoughts are undoubtedly moving towards boat heating and what alternatives are available. We’ve all seen the publicity surrounding air source heat pumps for the home, which are seen as the natural alternative to gas boilers for heating our homes. So the question is: can a similar technology be used to heat a boat, and if so, does anyone offer such a device that works? I was asked these questions a number of times while I was carrying out research for this article by both boaters and those associated with the waterways. As a result, I started looking into the subject.
Tackling the obvious issues
One company I contacted was Kensa Heat Pumps based in Cornwall, which supplied one of its 3kW Shoebox heat pumps for installation in a boat called Tulak. The heat pump itself is said to be one of the smallest on the market, which was undoubtedly a major consideration. The company was founded in 1999 by a pair of former marine engineers, and its first heat pump was designed to be installed on board a boat using seawater as the energy source. The boat was built by Elton Moss Boatbuilders in Cheshire for Nick Clack and Ali Roberts, who wanted the boat to be as environmentally friendly as possible. However, despite the heat pump’s name, finding a location for a unit measuring 530H x 475W x 370L could prove to be a challenge on a narrowboat, given that
The heat pump in situ below decks during a routine winter inspection.
Robin seen from above shows the solar panel layout which helps to power the boat’s systems including the heat pump.
PHOTO: PHIL PICKIN.
PHOTO: BEACON PARK BOATS
Tulak is 12ft wide x 65ft long and has three bedrooms. But at the suggestion of a fellow Towpath Talk contributor, I did find one of Kensa’s Shoebox heat pumps on one of the smallest narrowboats you are likely to find. More of that later. One of the biggest names in boat heating has to be Eberspacher. They don’t currently offer a heat pump option for boat heating partly because of an issue heard from some boat builders who are concerned about the water supply to the pump and that blockages could pose a problem. However, with water-sourced heat pumps using a skin tank and not using a feed of water from the canal or river, this shouldn’t be seen as a reason not to consider one. Who knows, maybe we will see a heat pump from Eberspacher in the future. It was a similar situation with Fischer Panda, who, when asked about other options for boat heating, offered a range of air-con units that it felt would be compact enough to fit on the roof of a narrowboat without causing any air draugh ht prob blems. Chris Fower, Fischer Panda UK’s sales and marketin ng director, told us: “Ro ooftop air con is a
Kensa Hea at Pumps Shoebox unitts. PHO OTOS: KENSA HEAT PUMPS.
simple refit option. We use them a lot on vehicles with no feedback on efficiency issues when heating. Finding space is obviously dependent on roof space available, but these units aren’t very big.” He added that these are “really simple to fit, have no water cooling issues, and are space-saving”. But with the roofs of narrowboats being used for solar panels and many other things, plus with the roof being far from flat, I’m not sure the air-con option would be ideal, but I’m sure Fischer Panda will probably be able to overcome the contour issue.
A valuable resource?
There are few examples of narrowboats fitted with anything other than conventional heating. That is until you speak to Alasdair Kirkpatrick, proprietor of Beacon Park Boats, the gentleman suggested by my fellow Towpath Talk contributor Jonathan Mosse. Beacon Park Boats is a family business that has been offering narrowboat holidays on the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal since 2001. All of its boats are bespoke, including its fleet of day boats, which are all electric. When I asked about the use of heat pumps in narrowboats, Alasdair suggested looking at the company’s boat,
Robin, a fully electric boat which forms part of Beacon Park Boats’ commitment to tackle climate change. This almost 27ft long, two-berth boat is beautifully fitted out with an induction hob and with hot water and heating generated by a water source heat pump. In Alasdair’s opinion: “She is truly revolutionary.” Robin is the smallest boat in the fleet to be equipped with a small amount of living space. It is equipped with solar panels and two battery banks providing 5kW of electricity. These banks can be swapped over if needed, but dependent on the user’s power consumption, this isn’t always necessary. Robin was designed with a heat pump in mind, so space was made available below decks for one of Kensa’s Shoebox units that produces warm air via a vent in the cabin as well as a tank of hot water. Alasdair said that the unit is capable of 50C. One of the questions he’s often asked is: “What if the canal freezes?” As he pointed out: “The canal never fully freezes to the bottom, and as long as there is a 1C temperature difference, a heat pump will work.” In fact, in Alasdair’s opinion: “CRT is sitting on a valuable resource”. He feels that the heat energy contained in the
canal system could and should be used to heat homes along the waterways system, a consideration he has discussed with CRT in the past. Alasdair is a pioneer of low-carbon energy and has guided the company in its transition to using the sizeable solar array on the roof of its workshops to power even the most power-hungry, three-phase equipment in the woodwork shop. Waste wood from this shop is used to feed the heating system and biomass generator on site, and even the wood chip waste is converted into briquettes for use in the hire fleet stoves. It’s good to see Alasdair and the team at Beacon Park Boats continually looking for ways to reduce the carbon footprint of the business, something I feel businesses in all sectors should be doing. As for heat pumps, there isn’t a lot of choice for the boating community at the moment, but I’ve no doubt this will change. As for installing one in your boat, the main issue would seem to be the need for a skin tank for the pump to use. If this can be done as part of a major refit, then it could be worth consideration, and if you are having a new build, you should definitely look into it and talk to your boat’s builder. Heat pumps are more expensive than a conventional system, so it would seem to come down to how much value you put on reducing your carbon footprint.
Insid de the cabin of the 26ft 11in narrowboat Robin, built by Beacon Park Boatts and heated by a Kensa Heat Pump. PHOTO: BEACON PARK BOATS.
SUSTAINABLE BOATING 41
www.towpathtalk.co.uk March 2024
Collaboration on serial hybrid narrowboat Two of the country’s most popular narrowboat builders are joining forces to promote serial hybrid systems to a wider audience of customers.
AQUA Narrowboats will be building a 57ft bespoke boat this spring using a hybrid drive and monitoring system designed and supplied by Ortomarine. The battery bank will feature four 200Ahr 48v LiFePO4 batteries and will be recharged by a Fischer Panda generator. Aqua Narrowboats, celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, has built a number of narrowboats with parallel hybrid drive systems but this is the first time the company has built a serial hybrid system. Justin and Jane Hudson-Oldroyd, owners of Aqua Narrowboats, say: “We’ve been embracing hybrid drive systems for a number of years now but didn’t want to reinvent the wheel with our first serial hybrid system, as the marketplace is becoming crowded with unproven systems. “We approached Ortomarine as it has completed nine years’ worth of narrowboat research utilising different drive systems and components. This research data and knowledge has given the company a unique understanding of the most efficient and effective hybrid system – something that is lacking in the narrowboat industry. “As we’ve always worked with suppliers that can offer the same knowledge, technical backup and customer care that we offer our own customers, Ortomarine was the perfect company to collaborate with as it too has
the same level of service. We’re looking forward to working together on this and future projects.” The 57ft bespoke serial hybrid narrowboat is being built for Swiss owners who intend to cruise the canal system during the main boating season. The boat will feature an enclosed bow, allowing the owners to utilise additional floor space within the cabin. It will be a reverse layout with the bedroom at the bow followed by a walk-through bathroom, midship galley and the saloon at the stern. Caroline Badger and Rob Howdle, owners of Ortomarine, say: “We are extremely keen to encourage and enable other boat builders to build reliable and efficient electrically propelled narrowboats – and to help ensure that electric boats which are launched on the inland waterways are safe and fit for purpose. “After our initial correspondence and meeting with Justin and Jane at Aqua Narrowboats, it soon became clear that we are all working toward shared goals – excellent customer service, building high quality and reliable boats which minimise the impact on the environment, and increasing the numbers of quality serial hybrid boats successfully cruising the cut. “Aqua’s excellent reputation in the industry, its professionalism and eye for detail are all more reasons why we feel
From left: owners of Ortomarine, Rob Howdle and Caroline Badger, and owners of Aqua Narrowboats, Jane and Justin Hudson-Oldroyd. PHOTO: SUPPLIED. the company is a great fit for us to work with. We are looking forward to working with Aqua on this and future projects.” The boat will be fitted out at Aqua Narrowboats' custom-built factory
premises in Foston, Derbyshire, which the company expanded into five-anda-half years ago. The boat build can be followed on Aqua’s popular Facebook page, but if
you want to take a closer look at what the company does then its next open day is on Sunday, March 10, 11am-3pm. Email: admin@aquanarrowboats. co.uk to book a place.
Carbon neutral boating: how close can we get? Jonathan Mosse of the IWA Sustainable Boating Group introduces a new series on off-grid boating.
IN 2020, the IWA (Inland Water ways Association) published its Vision Document on sustainable propulsion setting out the road to zeroemission boating. However, the marine domestic landscape is far more challenging, given that we use our craft in a multiplicity of different ways. So, let’s begin by establishing our objectives and setting out a few ground rules. I’m going to draw on my own experience as a full-time, residential boater, almost permanently moored, without gas and living on the Lowland Canals of Scotland. No, it doesn’t get any worse in terms of the off-grid living
volume of hot water, although it ticks all the other boxes including non-stop operation on smokeless fuel. Hot water and, to a certain extent, wet heating systems (whether it be during the summer or winter months) is a subject to be taken on its own and explored in greater depth in a future article. Suffice it to say that I have one very promising low-tech device currently on trial and the IWA Sustainable Boating Group (SBG) is monitoring the progress of heat pumps closely.
challenges this scenario throws up. So if I can do it, so can you! Living lightly on the planet is my aim and ambition and one of the privileges of living on a boat is the fine control over energy usage that it potentially offers. Indeed, we can relatively easily exercise control over all our inputs and outputs, monitoring them precisely if we so wish.
Energy source
Rule number one: quite simply, that for this to work, cooking, central heating and water heating must employ an energy source other than the sun or wind during five months of the year.
Just over 2kW of PV panels. PHOTOS: JONATHAN MOSSE
The beating heart of the system! While alternative energy is abundant during the summer months for electric cooking (and, indeed, almost anything else you care to mention) from the beginning of November through to the beginning of April, solar PV can, at best, only keep up with demand from the ‘basics’: fridge, lights, pumps, computers, radio, etc. For the rest, I rely heavily on a Dickinson Adriatic stove running on HVO, 24/7. This could, in turn, be any form of ‘diesel’ or solid fuel stove with enough space on top to cook and, ideally, with an oven. I also have an Epping solid fuel stove in the back cabin which I’ve found to be an acceptable substitute for the Dickinson, except that it doesn’t produce any great
Battery choice
Rule number two: this relates to battery choice and there is only one sensible answer once you acknowledge that neither wind nor solar, on their own, can reliably meet the charging regime demanded by lead acid (LA) battery chemistry. This is something to look at in detail in a future article but suffice it to say, for the time being, that neither solar nor wind can be guaranteed to provide a steady output, over as long a period as an LA battery bank requires, to meet the needs of the absorption charging phase. Lithium battery technology provides the answer, albeit at an initially high outlay and in the form of lithium iron phosphate. Even then, the occasional balancing charge is required, which realistically necessitates a brief visit to the grid!
Solar
Rule number three: for this to work you will need somewhere in the order of 2kW of solar, so aesthetics will probably have to play second fiddle to function and the accommodation of that area’s PV panels! I would love to be able to convince myself that flexible panels are a financially viable, long-term solution (especially as I’m currently building an off-grid, replica showman’s living wagon with a barrel roof ) but I’ve so far failed dismally, and am not too unhappy with the present arrangements on the roof of my 60ft tug.
Charging
Rulenumberfour:nochargingor hot water generation by running the main engine while moored. This is an environmental (and mechanical) disaster area,
while the effective cost of 1kW of electricity doesn’t bear thinking about. Remember this article is designed purely as a scene setter, to share the SBG’s firsthand experience of what is and isn’t possible. Future pieces will go into specific areas of detail, backed by data. While the range of off-grid kit I have invested in is sold by a variety of different manufacturers, I’ve settled for a purely Victron system, one of the main drivers being that not only is it high quality, but it also logs data in great detail, that is easily accessible: essential for this exercise. The vision document can be viewed at: https:// www.water ways.org.uk/ wp-content/uploads/2020/10/ IWA-Sustainable-PropulsionVision-updated-March-2021-1. pdf
Local control and monitoring of the system.
42 HOLIDAYS AND LEISURE
March 2024
www.towpathtalk.co.uk
Welcoming visitors from America Russell Fletcher from Foxhangers Canal Holidays explains how the UK canals are a popular tourist destination for overseas visitors.
DRIFTERS Waterway Holidays has a surprising number of canal boat vacation bookings from visitors from across the pond.
Visit Britain is running a special campaign targeting visitors from the US, Britain’s most valuable inbound visitor market.
01606 833668 Middlewich, Cheshire Puffer Steamboat Holidays Cruise the sea lochs and canals of Sccotlan nd’ss Wesst Coast in an oriigin na l steam powered Clyyde Pu uffe fffer.
Tel: 07780 936407 Visit: savethepuffer.co.uk
Enjoy a peaceful and tranquil holiday on the pictureseque Fenland waterways
Bridge Boatyard Ely, Cambridgeshire
www.bridgeboatyard.com
t: 01353 663 726 e: info@bridgeboatyard.com
Many Americans will be travelling to the UK and France this year as the 80th anniversary of the D-Day Landings and the Battle of Normandy will be commemorated in June. And, of course, the Olympics are being held in Paris in July and August. American visitors are attracted by our holidays as a way to explore some of Britain’s most famous historic sites: Bath, Oxford, Edinburgh, Cambridge, St ra t f o rd - u p o n Avon and Warwick are particularly popular. Our historic canalside pubs seem popular too! Tourists from the US usually have a lot of questions, including particular concerns about the facilities available on board their hire boat.
Like many other newcomers to our holidays, they’ll ask if they need any expertise and what the most popular trips are. But they also often ask for wider beds and if they can plug in their sleep apnoea machines. By the way, the answer to the sleep apnoea machine question is ‘yes’ aboard our boats that have 240v inverter charging points, and if the machine is for comfort rather than for life-threatening conditions. We’ve recently added some extra information to our website to answer common questions from overseas visitors. And we’re delighted to be welcoming the Canadian YouTuber Michael Downie back for more holidays on the UK’s waterways this summer for Downie Live. For more information on Drifters go to www. drifters.co.uk
UK waterways are a popular destination for overseas visitors. PHOTO: SUPPLIED.
Oakwood Marina 01606 331961 g glamping@oakwoodmarina.co.uk l www.oakwoodmarina.co.uk G+
We have 25 acres of rolling Cheshire countryside, why not come and get away from it all by spending time in one of our beautifully furnished bell tents, or camping with your own tent or campervan. The Wilder family, who own the place, have an attitude to the campsite that befits their surname. Grazed by cows in some parts and cut just once or twice a year for hay, the meadows are otherwise left long and wild in summer. A few footpaths have been conscientiously mown in between pitches to help guide you around the fields and over to another lake attached to the canal that’s a wildlife hotspot and a good place to watch for herons.
THIS PROJECT WAS FUNDED BY THE EUROPEAN AGRICULTURAL FUND FOR RURAL DEVELOPMENT
HOLIDAYS AND LEISURE 43
www.towpathtalk.co.uk March 2024
The seven (or now eight) wonders of the waterways
The Falkirk Wheel – the world’s first and only rotating boat lift. ALL PHOTOS: JANET RICHARDSON
Caen Hill Flight, visually the most impressive flight of locks in the country. Trust, and there is also a trip boat operating from the Marsden end. Our nearest base is at Sowerby Bridge, on the junction of the Calder & Hebble Navigation and Rochdale Canal, 20 miles and 65 locks away. The journey to Standedge takes around 21 hours (three days).
THE Seven Wonders of the Waterways was compiled by Robert Aickman, co-founder of the Inland Waterways Association, and published in his book Know Your Waterways more than 70 years ago. Since then, Drifters has added the Falkirk Wheel in Scotland (which opened in 2002) to the list, to make the perfect canal boat holiday ‘bucket list’ guide for 2024.
The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct
Carrying the Llangollen Canal 38m (126ft) high above the River Dee, the awesome World Heritage Pontcysyllte Aqueduct is the highest and longest aqueduct in Britain. Built between 1795 and 1805, it has 18 magnificent stone piers, supporting a 307m (1007ft) long trough for the canal to run through. With not even a hand rail on the south side of the aqueduct to obscure the views of the breathtaking Dee Valley below, boaters literally feel like they are floating above the earth! Drifters has a canal boat hire base on the Llangollen Canal at Trevor in North Wales, just a five-minute cruise from the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct.
The Anderton Boat Lift
Also known as The Cathedral of the Canals, this extraordinary structure raises boats 15m (50ft) from the River Weaver to the Trent & Mersey Canal. Designed by Edwin Clark and opened in 1875, it consists of two caissons, each large enough to take a barge or pair of narrowboats. In 1983 problems with the mechanism caused the lift to close but after a Heritage Lottery funded restoration, it reopened in 2002. Drifters has a narrowboat hire base on the Trent & Mersey Canal at Anderton, right next to the lift.
The Caen Hill Flight
With 16 of its 29 locks falling in a straight line, the Caen Hill flight of locks on the Kennet & Avon Canal at Devizes in Wiltshire is visually the most impressive in the country. The locks were the final
Barton Swing Aqueduct
Brindley’s Aqueduct was replaced by the Barton Swing Aqueduct in 1893. link in the Kennet & Avon Canal’s construction, opening in 1810. By 1950 they had become derelict but after a major restoration effort, they were reopened by HM The Queen in 1990. Drifters’ Devizes base is at the base of the flight.
The Bingley Five-Rise Locks
Completed in 1774, this spectacular staircase of locks on the Leeds & Liverpool Canal 17 miles from Leeds, raises (or lowers) boats 18m (60ft) in five cavernous chambers. The locks open directly from one to another, with the top gate of one forming the bottom gate of the next. Our nearest canal boat hire base is on the Leeds & Liverpool Canal at Silsden, a distance of six miles away. With five locks to pass through along the way, the journey to Bingley from Silsden takes around four-and-a-half hours.
The Standedge Tunnel
Tunnelling for more than three miles beneath the Pennines, this incredible feat of 18th and 19th-century engineering is the longest, highest and deepest tunnel on the canal system. Cutting through solid rock, it took the navvies 16 years to build, opening in 1811. In the 20th century, the Huddersfield Canal fell into disrepair, becoming unnavigable by 1948, but after a long restoration programme, both the canal and tunnel were reopened in 2001. Today you need to book your passage through the tunnel with the Canal & River
Originally built in 1761 by James Brindley to take the Bridgewater Canal across the River Irwell, the Barton Aqueduct was considered a marvel at the time of its opening. But when the Manchester Ship Canal company decided to use the course of the Irwell at Barton as part of its navigation channel, Brindley’s Aqueduct was replaced by the Barton Swing Aqueduct in 1893. The 1450-tonne, 100m long aqueduct swings open, full of water, to allow the passage of ships along the Manchester Ship Canal. Our nearest base is at Acton Bridge, on the Trent & Mersey Canal near Northwich in Cheshire. From there, it takes around nine hours, travelling 26 miles and through just one lock, to reach the Barton Swing Aqueduct.
The Burnley Embankment
Also known as The Straight Mile, the milelong Burnley Embankment carries the Leeds & Liverpool Canal more than 18m (60ft) high across part of the town, offering boaters breath-taking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Though costly and difficult to build, the Burnley Embankment, which spans the Calder Valley, avoided the need for a series of locks which would have slowed cargo-carrying boats down. Designed by Robert Whitworth, the embankment was built between 1796 and 1801 and involved the mammoth task of transporting (by horse and cart) around half a million tons of earth from the nearby canal cutting at Whittlefield and tunnel at Gannow. Drifters’ narrowboat hire base at Barnoldswick is just 11 miles and seven locks away.
The Falkirk Wheel
Built as part of the Millennium Link project to restore the canals linking the east and west coasts of Scotland, the Falkirk Wheel is the world’s first and only rotating boat lift. Standing at a height of
Burnley Embankment Straight Mile.
35m, it moves boats between the Union Canal and Forth & Clyde Canal, replacing a flight of 11 locks which had been dismantled in 1933. It can carry up to 600 tonnes (eight or more boats) and uses just 1.5kWh of energy to turn – the same amount it takes to boil eight kettles. Drifters offers canal boat rental at Falkirk, right next to the Falkirk Wheel. For more information visit www.drifters.co.uk
Dog Friendly Pub & Tearoom Serving real home cooked food & good drinks. 01858 545250 www.theblackhorsefoxton.co.uk Foxton, Leics, LE16 7RD
The Tudor Arms Situated adjacent to Patch Bridge on the Gloucester/ Sharpness Canal
Serving Real Ales and Home Cooked food all day 14 Guest Rooms suitable for one night or more and ideal for visiting friends and relatives 01453 890306 enquiries@thetudorarms.co.uk www.thetudorarms.co.uk
The Leigh Arms • Moor at Bridge 208 on the Trent & Mersey Canal • Real Ales served • Children’s play area • Traditional British and Authentic European Dishes The Leigh Arms, Warrington Road, Little Leigh, Northwich, Cheshire CW8 4QT. Tel 01606 853327
www.leigharms.co.uk
44 TECHNICAL
March 2024
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Industrial heritage repurposed
Relics of Britain’s industrial past are being adapted and preserved for alternative purposes, as Sally Clifford found out when she visited a Knottingley boatyard. THEY are an important part of our industrial heritage; these hulking crafts that navigated the local canal network. Cloth and coal were among the tonnes of important cargo they carried between the mills and power stations once contributing to the country’s economy. Today shipbuilding activity isn’t as buoyant due to the decline in industries requiring commercial workboats on such scale yet, thanks to ingenuity and skill, these relics are being repurposed into floating homes or for leisure and pleasure in the tourism industry. Nathan Rumbold has lived on the water for 28 years – he bought his first boat in his 20s and, through hands-on
experience and learning from those who have passed on their knowledge and skills, he is now carrying on the legacy at Knottingley’s historic boatyard. “I didn’t know anything about boats. A friend of mine used to live on a bus and I liked the idea. I was living in Huddersfield at the time and I noticed a few people living on boats and the penny dropped. I liked the boat idea,” says Nathan, recalling his introduction to an alternative way of living. His first boat, a 40ft Springer built in 1967, was moored in Kirkstall, Leeds. Other than woodworking at school, repairing and maintaining the craft was a learning experience for Nathan,
Nathan Rumbold with one of his historic boats. PHOTO: SALLY CLIFFORD
A boat during the engineering process, cut in half ready for the extension work to begin.
PHOTO: NATHAN RUMBOLD.
whose ambitions grew with each boat he subsequently purchased. From the Springer, he progressed to a 45ft Dutch barge and, eventually, an ex-Hargreaves coal barge. This led to his introduction to Maurice Hirst Boatbuilders, based on the Knottingley boatyard synonymous with John Harker’s boat and shipbuilding business, which Nathan now runs. “They built around 200 ships in that time, some up to 200ft long. A few of those have been all around the world,” says Nathan, recalling John Harker’s history. He explains that he initially took the boat for Maurice to survey and offered to labour, to help reduce the repair bill. Working alongside Maurice and Ty Crotty, Nathan expanded his knowledge and skillset which he is now using to maintain, repair and reconfigure customers’ boats. Dating back around 200 years, John Harker’s was one of the biggest boat-building yards in its heyday. The benefit of a sizeable slipway
enables Nathan to work on substantially bigger boats. Conversions have added a new dimension to the business. Extending boats for floating homes and reducing craft into pleasure cruisers to navigate the local canals accounts for a large part of his work. “The old working narrowboats started at 70ft long. They were built by individual canal companies to their specification. The locks around West Yorkshire are 57ft long. Down in Knottingley, they are 220ft long from Leeds to Goole,” says Nathan. Recycling to reduce wastage is an important part of the conversion process. Nathan recalls a project involving a boat he purchased at auction.“It was full of holes and in a field in Nottingham.” Nathan reduced the boat from 70ft to 57ft, a popular size for navigating the Calder and Hebble, but was able to create another boat out of the middle section. He recalls helping Maurice and Ty when they transformed a 90ft
A jebus was previously used in the transfer and transportation of coal. PHOTO: SALLY CLIFFORD.
Nottingham Trader Barge. The middle section created a 40ft craft christened Ting (the middle letters of Nottingham). The bow and stern were welded back together creating a shorter boat. Nathan’s current work in progress is a former Thames barge. “It has two bows and no motor stern. Having two bows encouraged me to cut it in half and make two boats with it.” He explained that the larger section is being designed as a replica working barge with accommodation under cloth for its new purpose as a floating hotel. Nathan believes demand has been driven by leisure and tourism. “I think pleasure craft started it.” He says many consider 70ft narrowboats to be too big for a pleasure craft. “But you can cut one in half and make two boats out of it, obviously given the correct skills,” says Nathan.
Unusual relic
One of the more unusual nautical relics in his yard is a jebus, whose working life would have been spent leading a train of linked barges transferring and transporting coal. Nathan purchased the 150-year-old 18ft long by 15ft wide riveted craft from a museum for preservation. “It’s all one space inside. It’s bigger than some narrowboats. It could be a self-contained floating flat, a studio apartment,” suggests Nathan, who is keen on preservation. “I am all for the boats, historic working boats,” he says. Riveted boats in particular, he says, were an evolution of boat design. “They have got a lot of character to them.” Reconfiguring boats that have become surplus to requirements is keeping the legacy alive. For more information visit Hirst Boatbuilders on Facebook.
Buying a boat: advice from professionals By Ben Sutcliffe-Davies
LAST year at the Southampton boat show there was a very informative feature called How to buy a boat. Several industry experts gave up their time to help new and existing purchasers understand how much has changed in the last few years. They included representatives from insurance, finance, legal, surveying and brokerage. Chris Ibbotson from Boatpoint gave some really valuable insights as to why, if selling and more importantly buying a used craft, the use of a recognised and trained broker was extremely important. The AYBA and BM associations both undertake stringent training of brokers and there were several very important points raised by Chris at the presentations given throughout the week that included how important the production of title documents is when buying and selling a boat. Chris pointed out that a good broker will ensure that they have at least five years’ clear title, evidence of the VAT status and evidence that the vessel complies with the RCD/ UKCA requirements of any yacht for sale. Certainly, evidence of ownership by the seller can be problematic, and through Covid certainly became quite an
issue where boats did exchange rapidly with many sold privately with virtually no real evidence provided. The role of the broker, as Chris explained, will be to not only check title, VAT and RCD status but also look to establish if any existing loans are outstanding on the vessel. Stuart Austin, director of Promarine, expanded on this by advising that sometimes a loan on a craft may not be so obvious. If you notice the boat is on the British register – Part 1 registered on the UK flag is often a clue – it’s worth also knowing that many finance companies will hold the original vessel documents, so be aware if just photocopies are being presented. More importantly since the dreaded Brexit word, whether the craft was VAT paid in the UK or not while abroad before the cut-off of December 31, 2020 does need verification. This one topic of where a vessel was or can be in the future without being liable for an import tax has certainly now become a major issue for those planning to set off and keep the boat that was purchased in the UK in European waters, for instance. Likewise, if buying a vessel abroad, even if owned by a UK resident, if the owner doesn’t bring the craft back into UK waters himself there will almost certainly be UK
It is important to have out-of-water surveys.
import taxation to be considered at the time of writing! It is worth pointing out that in the last few years, this requirement has changed and is still likely to change further. There are options for ‘resetting the clock’ as Chris also explained, by simply taking a craft out of European waters.
Helpful input
A good broker will also ensure wherever possible the vessel is correctly listed and try to attend viewings on behalf of the owner. Obviously there are times when they are stretched which is why Chris explained that it’s well worth calling the broker before travelling any distances to check firstly on the vessel availability, condition of the craft, and if someone is available for at least part of the viewing. A broker’s input can indeed be helpful; talk to them freely and explain what you want to do and the circumstances etc. A broker can save you money, especially if it becomes obvious the craft and your aspirations of use don’t match. A broker should be experienced enough to help guide and suggest other craft that may be the exact glove one seeks! The broker will use a recognised industry-approved contract that both sides should sign before any survey is undertaken. On the point of
surveying, it’s important to talk to a few surveyors and not just jump to the cheapest or one that’s available that week! It's sensible to use surveyors who are members of associations like the YDSA, IIMS or SCMS. Checking the level of membership is also very important, and do not hesitate to ask for sample surveys etc. The broker should be able to assist in ensuring that the owner has the craft as survey-ready as possible. If the craft is afloat, dealing with arranging a lift out and vessel movements to and from a lift out or sea trail, if required, needs to be properly organised and all
parties should be kept informed. It’s essential to see the boat out of the water! A good broker will also help negotiate and try and obtain a good outcome for all sides without personalities causing the sale to fail. One of the panellists was Lucy Goff from LA Marine. She explained that the industry of buying and selling through a broker within the marine industry is certainly a lot different from house purchasing, as the broker will be working for both sides. She went on to advise that having a marine lawyer involved in purchases can be sensible in some cases and certainly
prudent, especially for VAT, new builds and used craft ownership verifications. Lastly, we touched on insurance and there were some very helpful tips. Asking what is and isn’t covered along with levels of cover are all very important. Keeping records of equipment and servicing all play an important part in the value of a craft and get reviewed at the point of a claim. There is a big difference between fully comprehensive and third-party. Especially important to look at cover regarding wreck removal, which can cost well over £5000 in many instances.
www.towpathtalk.co.uk March 2024
45
46 BUILDERS
March 2024
www.towpathtalk.co.uk
Come & see us at Crick Boat Show 2024! Sat 25th - Mon 27th May 2024 (Trade & Preview Day - Friday 24th May)
Tel: 0151 298 9602. www.collingwoodboatbuilders.co.uk sales@collingwoodboatbuilders.co.uk Sales Manager Ian Evans: 07949349348 72 St Johns Rd, Liverpool L20 8BH
SHOWING THE FOLLOWING RANGES: ABODE
SHEARWATER
HOXTON
ONLY £1K DEPOSIT TO SECURE YOUR BUILD SLOT
EURO
BUILDERS 47
www.towpathtalk.co.uk March 2024
01270 525040 www.knightsnarrowboats.com Units 4-5, Aqueduct Marina, Church Minshull, Nantwich, Cheshire CW5 6DX
BOOK A BUILD SLOT FOR 2024 AND GET 3 MONTHS FREE MOORING
Bespoke Built or Shroppie Range Exclusively brokered at Aqueduct Marina
FOR SALE | 58ft Shroppie Range in build nearing completion
FOLLOW US ON
• Narrowboats • Widebeams • Dutch Barges • Bespoke • Offering Shells & Sailaways
Lee and Garry welcome all their customers, whether first time owners or old friends, a quality shell built to your specifications at affordable prices
Now you can find us on facebook, search
‘X R&D Boatbuilders’
Come and see us at Unit 67, Road A, Boughton Industrial Estate, Boughton, near Newark, Notts. NG22 9LD D Call 01623 863576 or Garry 07830 720879, Lee 07723 021798 Our website is packed full of images of past and current builds, visit: www.xrandd.co.uk
50 years combined experience
48 BUILDERS
March 2024
www.towpathtalk.co.uk
From Hull only to fully fitted narrow & wide beam boats built to your own design 57ft cruisers fully fitted from £125,500 Aintree Beetle range starting from £45,000 PLEASE CONTACT US FOR A QUOTE
WORKING TOGETHER TO BUILD YOUR DREAM www.aintreeboats.co.uk 0151 523 9000 | info@aintreeboats.co.uk Units 14-16, Brookfield Trading Estate, Brookfield Drive, Aintree, Liverpool L9 7AS
t
JD NARROWBOATS LTD We understand this is a life changing decision, so we welcome you to visit our working boat yard to see what we can offer you prior to looking elsewhere. Top quality materials used, from the shell to the fit out
Bespoke Boat Builders Narrowboats & Widebeam
We work with the customer throughout each stage within the boat build and happily discuss the process step by step Only 20 mins from Willington, 5 mins from Sawley Marina.
Why not come and see what we can do for you OPENING TIMES Mon-Fri 8.00-4.30 Sat By Appointment Sun By Appointment
Sailaways Full Fit Repaints Repair Servicing Dobsons Wharf, The Wharf, Shardlow, Derbyshire DE72 2GH
3
We have
boats in build
Call Workshop: 01332 792271 or Mobile: 07952 378679 jdnarrowboats@gmail.com www.jdnarrowboats.com
BUILDERS / BROKERAGE 49
www.towpathtalk.co.uk March 2024
BEAUTIFUL BOATS BUILT TO LAST Established in 1974, Colecraft have gained the experience and expertise to ensure that the boat we build for you will last for years to come. All our boats are custom designed and built to individual requirements. Boats are built to order to any stage of completion – from a bare hull or superstructure to luxuriously fitted and finished. We build narrowbeam and widebeam boats for private and trade customers and are possibly the largest supplier of steel shells to other boat builders/fitters. Our latest trip boats include Crusader Comunity (Widebeam with Hybrid propulsion - full MCA certification), Electra (Narrowbeam with electric propulsion - 12 passengers) and Kingfisher Mark (Widebeam with electric propulsion 12 passengers). Our welders are coded to meet MCA requirements.
BOATS URGENTLY REQUIRED FOR BROKERAGE OR PURCHASED OUTRIGHT MY JOY 33ft Atlanta centre cockpit cruiser built by Viking. Propulsion provided by a Honda 30hp
Outboard petrol engine with the assistance of a bow thruster. Hot water and central heating provided by a Malaga. Electrics comprising of a 12v, 240v landline, Inverter, 1 starter, 3 leisure batteries and a solar panel. The galley offers a Smev cooker & hob along with a fridge, and dinette seating. We can find 2 bathrooms, both with a shower, one with a Pump Out and one with a cassette toilet. 6 berths is arranged over a fixed double bed in the aft cabin, convertible dinette, and convertible seating in the fore cabin. The centre cockpit features timber wood flooring along with a canopy cover. BSC May 2025. Blacked 2022.
£24,950
MAYBEL 58ft Trad built by Heron Boat Builders in 2004. Isuzu 42hp engine with a BSC 55kgf
Bow thruster. Electrics 12v, 240v landline, Sterling Pure Sine Wave Inverter, 1 starter, 3 leisure, 1 bow thruster batteries, Sterling Power battery charger. Galley - Country Leisure Midi Prima, Country Leisure Argent 4 burner hob, Shoreline fridge and a Bush microwave. 4 berths - fixed double bed and a sofa bed. Maybel has 2 bathrooms, the main housing a Thetford toilet, Shower and vanity basin and a 2nd with a cassette toilet and a vanity basin. Configured to offer a wealth of storage and the potential for a work/office space. 2 Side Hatches. BSC 2027. Blacked 2022.
£79,950
LE GRAND BLEU A 60ft by 11ft Widebeam Cruiser built by Liverpool Boats in 2008, featuring
an Isuzu 55hp engine and a Vetus gearbox. It includes systems such as a Calorifier and Webasto for hot water, a Multi Fuel Stove, and a Victron Phoenix Smart Inverter. Additionally, it has a Belling oven, a Waeco fridge with built-in freezer, and a fixed double bed in the stern. The bathroom features a fullsize shower and a separate Porta Pottie toilet. The boat has a BSC until Feb 2025 and was blacked with 8 anodes in Feb 2021. Le Grand Bleu is a stylish water home in need of some cosmetic finishing.
£89,950 L’ANCHOIS 60ft by 12ft Widebeam Cruiser. Built by Collingwood in 2016. She has everything needed for continuous cruising or shore-based living. Canaline 52hp engine and a PRM 150 gearbox. Electricals 12v, 240v landline,Victron Multiplus 3000 inverter, 1 starter & 4 leisure batteries along with 4 x 250w solar panels with Outback Flexmax power system. Open and spacious galley offering a cooker, Shoreline fridge with freezer compartment and a double Belfast sink. Through the saloon onto the bathroom where we find a compost toilet, bath with shower over, vanity basin and Hoover washing machine. 3 Berths, 2 Cabins. Master bedroom custom king size bed with underbed storage. Second bedroom custom-built single bunk. L’Anchois has been beautifully crafted, if you are looking to begin a life on the water without having to compromise on space and home comforts then enquire about L’Anchois today!
£129,950
NOW OPERATING FROM 10 MARINAS NATIONWIDE BOAT SALES LTD
Email: enquiries@nationwideboatsales.co.uk www.nationwideboatsales.co.uk Tel: 01889 881960
Expert advice and guidance when buying and selling your Narrowboat At Swanley Brokerage we take pride in our professional approach and unrivalled reputation in selling narrowboats for our clients. Our friendly and experienced Brokerage team ensure our clients sail smoothly through the buying and selling process.
If you would like to find out more about what we can offer please call 01270 524855 or email sales@swanleybrokerage.co.uk Swanley Bridge Marina, Springe Lane, Swanley, Nantwich, Cheshire, CW5 8NR - www.swanleybrokerage.co.uk
50 BROKERAGE
March 2024
www.towpathtalk.co.uk
BUY, SELL OR MOOR WITH US
View all our boats! lakelandleisureboatsales.co.uk Visit us at Crick Saturday 25th to Monday 27th
MAY 2024
Meet the Lakeland Leisure team... we’re moor than just a marina!
We have boat sales offices in 9 locations!
HEWIS | £69,995 | 50FT TRADITIONAL | TATTENHALL MARINA A METICULOUSLY MAINTAINED 2005 2 BERTH, WITH A CHARMING INTERIOR.
RE
D U
CE D
BEATRICE | £199,000 | 58FT CRUISER STERN | TATTENHALL MARINA NEW LUXURY 5 BERTH BY KINGSGROUND, FIT OUT TO THE HIGHEST STANDARDS.
DEEP PURPLE | £89,995 | 60FT TRAD NARROWBOAT | BARTON MARINA
KINGSLEY | £74,995 | 60FT SEMI TRAD | GREAT HAYWOOD MARINA
A CHARMING CLASSIC FT. BOATMAN’S CABIN, AN EXCELLENT PROJECT BOAT.
A STUNNING 2009 VESSEL BY HEXAGON BOAT BUILDERS, FT. BOW THRUSTERS.
FOXTERRIER | £68,000
THE KRAKEN | £120,000
CANTERBURY TALES | £165,000
UNICORN | £63,000
OZYMANDIAS | £75,000
69FT CRUISER STERN CAEN HILL MARINA
60X12.6FT WIDEBEAM CAEN HILL MARINA
68FTX12FT WIDEBEAM SAUL JUNCTION MARINA
58FT SEMI TRAD SAUL JUNCTION MARINA
43FTX10FT WIDEBEAM ROYDON MARINA VILLAGE
9
BOAT SALES OFFICES
07534 655702
07354 902086
07585 956804
07748 036638
07513 708099
SHAKESPEARE: 07354 902085 | CAEN HILL: 07354 902085 | DEGANWY (COASTAL BOATS): 07935 010167
BROKERAGE 51
www.towpathtalk.co.uk March 2024
Your Boat • Our Expertise Over 28 years of experience selling individually inspected, well presented boats from your own mooring anywhere in the UK, or from our base at North Kilworth Marina, LE17 6HY
Whether you are buying or selling our website is packed with information and updated daily
Standard fee of 6% + VAT with a loyalty discount for returning customers
01788 822 115 • admin@abnb.co.uk
ASH BOATS LTD
For all enquiries please ring Stephen Harral 07771 510154.
CANAL BROKERAGE IN CHESHIRE.
www.ashboats.co.uk
steve@ashboats.co.uk
NEW BOATS AVAILABLE FROM STOCK, FOR IMMEDIATE DELIVERY. AVAILABLE FOR VIEWING IN CHESHIRE BY APPOINTMENT Ref 1511
Ref 1512
Ref 1502
NEW CONCEPT PREMIUM 57 NO.3 £136,500 INC VAT Narrowbeam, cruiser style, reverse layout with a super stylish interior by New Concept Boatbuilders and high quality steel shell by Cauldon Boats. Forward bedroom, shower room, central galley and aft living area. 42hp Vetus; 3.0kw Victron inverter/charger; underfloor heating to the shower room; Solar charging; Stunning woodwork.
NEW CONCEPT NARROWBEAM SAILAWAY £69,500 INC VAT Cruiser style, 57ft with window layout for aft living area and forward bedroom. Lined interior with wiring complete, stainless steel water tank, exterior paintwork in blue with cream coachline, Canaline 42hp. Interior fit-out can be taken further by arrangement.
MELLOR 16 £110,000 INC VAT Cruiser style, narrowbeam recently completed by Mellor boats with a reverse layout fitted in light ash and oak with painted panelling to the cabin sides and ceiling. Lacquered oak below the gunwhale and bulkheads; hardwood floor. Spacious layout has the main bed, full width and with double wardrobe; galley has quartz worktops; the living area has plenty of space for free standing furniture. Craftsman 42 engine.
52 BROKERAGE
March 2024
www.towpathtalk.co.uk
David Mawby Ltd NOTTINGHAM LANE, OLD DALBY, LEICESTERSHIRE, LE14 3LX
T: 07721 382619 E: davidmawbyboats@gmail.com W: www.davidmawbyboats.co.uk
Quality River and Canal Motor Cruisers are available to view by appointment at our Leicestershire indoor showroom. Over 20 years experience and 2,500 boats sold.
ATLANTA 24
£17,995 VIKING 22
Length 24ft, Beam 6ft10ins, Built 1990, 4 Berths, cooker, fridge, shower, toilet, hot and cold water system, 12 and 240 volts electrics, CREAM LEATHERETTE UPHOLSTERY WITH BLUE PIPING, RECENT NEW CANOPY, powered by a Honda 15Hp 4 stroke outboard engine, Bsc 2027, all original gelcoat (not painted), hull and superstructure polished and new antifouling, includes new mooring ropes, clean fenders, etc, FREE DELIVERY within 250 miles
£28,995
Length 22ft, Beam 7ft8ins, Built 2007, 4 Berths, cooker, fridge, shower, cassette toilet, warm air heating, fridge, 12 and 240 volts electrics, NEW CANOPY, powered by a Honda 30Hp 4 stroke outboard engine, Bsc 2027, all original gelcoat (not painted), hull polished and new antifouling, includes new mooring ropes, clean fenders, etc, FREE DELIVERY within 250 miles or local mooring available,
New Viking Cruisers
Show Boats Now Available to view at our indoor showroom. Prices From £32,995. Including Outboard Engine PLEASE CALL FOR LATEST OFFERS
VIKING 20
£13,995 VIKING 23
Length 20ft, Beam 7ft4ins, Built 1991, 4 Berths, cooker with 2 ring hob and grill, pumped water system, separate toilet with porta potti, 12 and 240 volts electrics, NEW CREAM LEATHERETTE CABIN CUSHION COVERS WITH BLUE PIPING, NEW CANOPY, NEW SIDE AND FLOOR CARPETS, NEW HEADLING, powered by a Honda 15Hp 4 stroke outboard engine, just been fully serviced, Bsc 2028, all original gelcoat (not painted), hull polished and new antifouling, includes new mooring ropes, clean fenders, etc, FREE DELIVERY within 250 miles or local mooring available,
£19,995
Length 23ft, Beam 6ft10ins, Built 1995, 4 Berths, cooker, toilet, fridge, shower, hot and cold water system, WARM AIR HEATING, 12 and 240 volts electrics, NEW CREAM LEATHERETTE CUSHION COVERS WITH BLUE PIPING, NEW CABIN AND COCKPIT SIDE LININGS AND FLOOR CARPETS, powered by Honda 15Hp 4 stroke outboard engine, Bsc 2028, all original gelcoat (not painted), hull and superstructure fully polished, new antifouling, includes new mooring ropes, clean fenders, etc, free delivery within 250 miles or local mooring available, SUPERB BOAT IN SUPERB CONDITION
As the Viking Motor Cruisers Premier Agent we are delighted to announce the arrival of the NEW VIKING 26 WIDE BEAM GOLDEN CROWN EDITION to celebrate 50 years of Viking Motor Cruisers. With new easy access lift out cockpit sides, new open plan cabin layout, 2 tone cockpit upholstery and warm air heating as standard, along with the usual fittings including cooker with hob, grill & oven, fridge, hot and cold water system, shower, cassette toilet, 12 & 240 volts electrics, 6 berths, and a 30Hp 4 stroke outboard engine.
Priced at £64,995. Book your viewing now on 07721 382619.
WINTER OFFER UP TO £2000 OFF ANY NEW VIKING STOCK BOAT WITH 5 AVAILABLE TO VIEW.
David Mawby Narrowboat Sales are open by appointment at Shardlow Marina, London Road, Shardlow, Derbyshire, DE72 2GL
SALLY CASS POO
£54,995
Length 57ft, Beam 6ft10ins, Built 2004 by Dave Clarke with a Trad Stern, fit out by Bridgecraft, powered by a Thornycroft diesel engine, Standard layout with bedroom at stern with a fixed double bed, next it the large bathroom with shower, pump-out toilet and sink, the galley in next with units both sides and a side hatch, followed by the main living area, the boat is heated via an Alde boiler with radiators thoughout the boat. There is also 12 and 240 volt electrics and immersion heater. The Bsc is to May 2026. This is a very clean and tidy vessel.
MARICK
£33,995
40ft cruiser stern built 1997 by Paul Barber powered by BMC 1500 inboard diesel engine. From the stern is the bathroom comprising of small bath with shower over, hand wash basin set in storage cabinet, mirror and Thetford porta potti. The bedroom has a made-up double bed with storage under, overhead lockers and gunnel storage. Moving forward is the galley with stainless steel sink & drainer with tiled splash-back & work-tops, fridge, 4 ring gas hob, oven & grill, and bulkhead cupboards. The main cabin has fixed seating which also makes a guest bed, gunnel shelving, solid fuel stove mounted on a tiled plinth & surround, & a corner storage cabinet. This is an ideal first little boat built by a leading fabricator with 12 & 240v electrics, a current BSC.
SUENOS
£47,995
Length 44ft, Beam 6ft10ins, Built 2008 by East West Marine with a cruiser stern, powered by a Barrus Shanks 35Hp inboard diesel. From the bow is the open plan living area with solid fuel stove and sofa bed, next is the galley with 4 ring gas hob, grill and oven, stainless steel sink, fridge and granite worktops, the wash room is next with a large shower, sink unit and pump-out toilet, the bedroom is to the rear of the boat and has a fixed double with a central heating radiator and wardrobe. Includes Webasto Central heating, combi inverter charger, 12 and 240 volts electrics, pram canopy, 3 x solar panels and a Bsc to May 2025.
FUTUREST
£49,995
Length 57ft, Beam 6ft10ins, Built 1998 by Ian Davis as a traditional boat with a boatman’s cabin and powered by a Russell Newbury 18Hp traditional engine in engine room. Current Bsc. The hull is constructed with a 12 mm base plate. The boatman’s cabin has a single berths, an Epping solid fuel stove, pull down table & storage cupboards. Moving forward is the engine room with side hatches both sides, next is the washroom with a shower, porta potti toilet and sink, followed by a the galley with a Belfast sink, shoreline fridge, full size gas cooker and side hatch. Moving towards the bow of the boat is the main living area with a Morso solid fuel stove with back boiler giving heat to the radiators, free standing sofa bed, corner storage cabinets and under gunwell storage with fold up table and chairs.The boat includes a front cratch cover, colarifier, washing machine,and Tv.
Narrowboats URGENTLY required for brokerage or outright purchase. (Free valuation, free storage, fast payout on completion, competitive rates, terms apply) Please contact David on 07721 382619
Website: www.davidmawbyboats.co.uk
Email: davidmawbyboats@gmail.com
BROKERAGE 53
www.towpathtalk.co.uk March 2024
LARGE CHOICE OF
WIDEBEAMS NARROWBOATS DUTCH BARGES
SAGAR MARINE MINI-LUXE DUTCH BARGE REPLICA
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK
NEWLY LISTED WIDEBEAMS AVAILABLE FROM £100,000
'Lady Macbeth' | £177,500 | thamesboatsales@tingdene.net
WIDEBEAMS
NOTTINGHAM BOAT CO. 70' X 12'
BARGE BLUEWATER 62' X 12' 06''
BARGE HERITAGE BOATS 62' X 12'
'The Jupiter' thamesboatsales@tingdene.net
'Skylark’ thamesboatsales@tingdene.net
'Geanna' thamesboatsales@tingdene.net
‘Andantino' thamesboatsales@tingdene.net
£169,950
£169,950
£119,950
£119,950
JONATHAN WILSON/FINESSE BOATS
JONATHAN WILSON/FERNWOOD
NARROWBOAT 62' XR&D SEMI TRAD
G J REEVES SEMI TRAD 70'
'Payback' thamesboatsales@tingdene.net
'Georgina C' thamesboatsales@tingdene.net
'Mata Kuching' thamesboatsales@tingdene.net
'Itchen To Go’ pyrfordboatsales@tingdene.net
£119,950
£72,500
£79,950
£76,950
NARROWBOAT 57' 6''
PETER NICHOLLS STEELBOATS 55'
NARROWBOAT 58' JD BOATS
NARROWBOAT 60' RERRY BABCOCK
'Bolli’ hartfordboatsales@tingdene.net
‘Water Woodstock' pyrfordboatsales@tingdene.net
‘Dymphna' pyrfordboatsales@tingdene.net
‘Yin Tang' pyrfordboatsales@tingdene.net
£56,950
£52,500
£62,950
£54,950
COLLINGWOOD 64' X 10'
NARROWBOATS
NEW AND USED BOATS AVAILABLE FROM 10 UK LOCATIONS
SPECIALIST WIDE BEAM AND NARROWBOAT SALES OFFICES Walton Marina | 01932 221689 Hartford Marina | 01480 274707 Pyrford Marina | 01932 343275 Upton Marina | 01684 593111 Stourport Marina | 01299 827082 Thames and Kennet Marina | 01189 477770
B E R T H I N G AT A N Y T I N G D E N E M A R I N A G U A R A N T E E D * W I T H A L L C R A F T S O L D !
*subject to availability
Tel: 01933 551622 boatsales@tingdene.net www.tingdeneboating.com
54 BROKERAGE
March 2024
Tel: (01788) 891373 Fax: (01788) 891436
Braunston Marina Ltd The Wharf Braunston Nr. Daventry Northamptonshire NN11 7JH
On the Internet: www.braunstonmarina.co.uk Email: sales@braunstonmarina.co.uk
REDUCED CHISWICK
UNDER OFFER £69,990
71ft 6” /21.82m Trad Style, Hull by Harland and Wolf –1937, F/O 2006, 2/4 Berth.
AUTUMN
£43,500
50ft/15.24m Tug Style 1995, Hull by Colecraft, Fit Out by Owner, 2/4 Berth
REDUCED VICTORIA
FOR SALE £45,000
52’(15.85M) – Semi Trad 1996 – Hull by Michael Cull F/O by Lockhart boats, 2 berth, Trad engine midships.
UNDER OFFER ON REFLECTION
GAIA
£44,950
42ft /12.80m Trad Style 1998, Hull & Fit Out by Venetian, 2/4 Berth
REDUCED £59,950
60ft /19.29m Semi Trad Style 2007, Hull & F/O by Aq qualine, 2/4 Berth
WIBBLY WOBBLY
FOR SALE £119,950
60ft /18.3m Semi Trad Style 2014, Hull Tyler Wilson, F/O by Milburn Boats, Reverse Layyout & Hyybrid Enggine, 2/4 Berth,
FOR SALE VICTORIA
www.towpathtalk.co.uk
43.5ft /13.25m Semi Trad, Hull by Colecraft, Fit Out by Len Beachamp 1991, Majjor Refit byy Wharf House Narrowboats 2023, 2/4 Berth
LION STAR
£34,950
46.2ft /14.08m Cruiser Style 1987,Hull & Fit Out by Rug gbyy Boat Builders, 2/4 Berth
FOR SALE
REDUCED £52,950
THISTLE DDU
£49,950
61ft 6”/18.74m Traditional Style 1985, Hull by Malcolm Braine, Fit Out byy Chris Lloyyd/Braine, 2/6 Berth
NAMASTE
£47,000
50ft /15.24m Cruiser Style 2001, Hull & F/O by Calcutt, 2/5 Berth Reverse Layyout
THERE ARE MANY GOOD REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD SERIOUSLY CONSIDER LETTING US SELL YOUR BOAT..... Here are just two:
We have a proven record for high and quick turnover of boat sales founded on our famous and prominent location An excellent and efficient purchasing procedure for our buyers backed up by our comprehensive boatyard facilities and services, and attentive, caring staff.
CONTACT OUR SALES TEAM FOR FURTHER INFORMATION
BOATS URGENTLY REQUIRED FOR SALE THIS SEASON
A SMALL NUMBER OF WIDE BERTH MOORINGS ARE AVAILABLE! • Moorings • Narrowboat Sales • Steelwork by Arrangement • Chandlery • Pump Out • Laundrette • Diesel • Calor Gas • Dry & Wet Docks • Blacking • DIY Facilities • Engine Repairs & Servicing • Painting & Signwriting • Rope Fenders • Refits & Alterations
BROKERAGE 55
www.towpathtalk.co.uk March 2024
New stock arriving shortly
Traditional boatyard, with traditional values
REF 10539 - Queen Maeve 46 foot semi traditional stern narrow boat. REDUCED TO £26,950.00
REF 10541 - Teiwaz 60 foot tug style narrow boat. £44,950.00
REF 10544 - Calluna 34 foot cruiser stern narrow boat. £31,500.00
REF 10547 - Blue Diamond 60 foot traditional stern narrow boat. £49,950.00
REF 10550 - Eclipse. 70 foot traditional stern narrow boat. £54,950.00.
REF 10551 - Highland Mist. 56 foot semi traditional stern narrow boat. JUST ARRIVED. £34,950.00.
REF 10552 - Brummie Jem. 65 foot tug style narrow boat. JUST ARRIVED. £49,950.00.
REF 10556 – Mixed Emotion. 57 foot traditional stern narrow boat. £46,950.00.
REF 10557 – Manana. 42 foot tug style narrow boat. £34,950.00.
REF 10558 – Ladydog. 57 foot traditional stern narrow boat. £69,950.00.
Please visit our website for a full list of boats currently For Sale
The Wharf, NORBURY JUNCTION Staffordshire ST20 0PN Tel: (01785) 284292 • E-mail: info@norburywharfltd.co.uk
www.norburywharfltd.co.uk
56 BROKERAGE
March 2024
ALICE MAY
£27,000
MONTPELLIER
www.towpathtalk.co.uk
£48,000
CED U D RE Alice May - 1984 51ft - Arkwright Hull and owner fitout. Powered by a BMC 1.5 with a PRM160VR2 Gearbox. Boat Safety Until April 2023
FIRWOOD
£50,000
2006 49ft – Napton Narrowboats hull and fitout. Powered by a Shire 1952 with a PRM260 Gearbox. Boat safety until May 2026.
MERDEKA
£58,000 2005 57ft – John White hull and Triton Boat Fitters fitout. Powered by a Vetus M417K with a TMC 60-2R Gearbox.
2001 50ft – Colecraft hull and fitout. Powered by an Beta 1505 Cylinder with a PRM150 Gearbox.
JACK FROST
£43,000
ED C U RED
RED DAWN
£58,000
2004 45ft - M+P Steelcraft hull with first owner fitout. Boat Safety Until August 2026.
Marine Engines Specialists in servicing, rebuilding and spare parts for BMC. Our respected quality re-manufactured BMC 1.5 and and 1.8s marinised for keel cooling from £2820 If it’s BMC we have what you need Call us now! A range of high quality re-built gearboxes are also available.
2003 55ft – Severn Valley Boat Centre Hull and Fitout. Powered by a Yanmar Shire with a PRM150 Gearbox.Boat safety until April 2027.
T: 01926 813757 E: boats@calcuttboats.com www.calcuttboatsshop.com Tomlow Road, Stockton, Southam, Warwickshire. CV47 8HX
ORDER ONLINE FOR NEXT DAY DELIVERY
www.calcuttboatsshop.com Open 24/7 for all your BMC and Hurricane spare parts and all your other chandlery needs online.
Reliable central heating and hot water for boats of any size
www.dieselheating.com
BROKERAGE 57
www.towpathtalk.co.uk March 2024
Staniland Marina, Lock Hill, Thorne, Doncaster DN8 5EP
Tel: 01405 816992 www.stanilandmarina.co.uk On the Stainforth & Keady Canal, convenient for all waterways in the north
Staniland Marina Boats For Sale Fletcher Zingaro 30 Sports Cruiser. 2 x Volvo AQ151 138hp. New canopy ’22, Well presented. Lying Boroughbridge. £14,450 Lying Boroughbridge Marina Colvic Northerner 26. Well presented with BMC 1.5 inboard. Recent canopy & refurbishment. Very low use (none for 30 years!) £12,995 Lying Boroughbridge Marina
Narrow/Widebeams Collingwood 60 x 13 Widebeam 2020 – STUNNING BOAT – Quality top end fit out, won’t be around for long. Appointment only. Sensibly priced at £164,995 Lying Staniland Marina. Springer 27’ Narrowboat. Recent Beta 20hp. 4 berths in 1 cabin, usual comforts, priced to sell. £12.995 Lying Staniland Marina
Viking 26 Centre Cockpit Narrow Beam. 25hp Johnson Outboard. Ideal starter ‘go anywhere’ boat. Berth available too. £12,495 Lying Staniland Marina
Cruisers
Salter Bros 30 Broads Cruiser – 32hp BMC, 4 berths in 2 cabins, typical spacious broads cruiser with galley, saloon & heads. £19,995 Lying Staniland Marina
Seamaster 27 – 32hp BMC, 4 berths in 2 cabins, good value starter cruiser. £8,495 Lying Staniland Marina
Brand New 2023 Sea Hunter Viper – Tohatsu 30hp, fully loaded. Upholstery, tonneau, radar arch, lighting, ideal fishing boat £15,995 Lying Staniland Marina
Freeman 22 Mk2. Ford Watermota inboard. Very well presented with new canopy. Ready to be used and in original condition. Berth available. £7,495 Lying Staniland Marina
Birchwood 29 Sedan. Single Ford Diesel Inboard. Spacious family boat with 2 cabins & centre saloon. Requiring some TLC cosmetically. Ideal as a small project, lots of boat for the money. £12,995 Lying Boroughbridge Marina
Hardy 18 Motor Sailer. 1990. 15hp Yamaha Outboard. £5,995 Lying Boroughbridge Marina
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South Oxford Canal Between Bridge 136 & 137 Close to Banbury
Fenny Marina
2
Finding peace away from home...
Station Fields, Southam, Warwickshire CV47 2XD T: 01295 770461
Blisworth Arm, Blisworth, Northampton NN7 3FG Telephone: 01604 879827 www.blisworthmarina.co.uk E-mail: info@blisworthmarina.co.uk 3
m oo Le rin is gs ure av ail ab le
OverWater
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E: office@thefennymarina.co.uk W: www.thefennymarina.co.uk 4
Waterways Association
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Marina Audlem, Cheshire Beautiifull • Peaceffull • Friiend dly At the heart of the Shropshire Union
01270 812677 Voted Marina of Distinction
www.overwatermarina.co.uk
Audlem, Nantwich, Cheshire CW5 8AY
4 2
Ruraltranquility withan abundanceof wildlife, located between theWatford and Foxtonlock flights. Northamptonshire, NN6 7XT 07401 297 253 www.crickwharf.co.uk mooring@crickwharf.co.uk
CRICK WHARF MARINA 21 miles of lock free cruising
Grand Union Canal, Leicester Section
TO PROMOTE YOUR MARINA ON THIS PAGE CALL TANIA ON 01507 529489
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58 BROKERAGE
March 2024
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Alvecote Marina Narrowcraft Boat Sales – Dry Dock - Repairs
The No.1 choice for hull blacking -Taking full boat painting bookings for 2024 BOATYARD SERVICES
• Engine and Heating Servicing • Breakdown Callout and Repairs • Gas, Electrical and Plumbing Specialists • BSC’s & Safety Examination Work • Engine Sales and Installation • Traditional boat painting • Specialists in Historic engines and craft • Boat Brokerage
MOORINGS
• Marina Moorings • Long and short term Moorings • Coal, Gas, Diesel & Pumpouts
DRY DOCK
• Bottom Blacking • Anode Replacement • Cabin Painting • Welding • Surveys GREAT DEALS ON EBERSPACHER REPAIR AND REPLACEMENT
BOAT OF THE MONTH
TRANQUILLITY
£34,950
42ft Trad 4 berth, 1981 by Colecraft. Excellent condition, Hull shotblast and 2 pack epoxy, BSS expires: 11/2025. 1 owner from new very reluctant sale!
SHUGLEY
TA-RA-A-BIT
£42,500
50ft, 1997, Charlie Fox. Cruiser stern. Just arrived, be the first to see.
SARAH JANE
£64,950
57ft, 2003 Liverpool Boats Trad, stylishly refitted 2023. Isuzu Marine engine, Victron energy inverter.
£54,950
57ft, 1991, North West Narrowboats. A reluctant sale of a very well cared for craft, one owner from new. Mitsubishi engine, solar panels, central heating, recent hull survey. 10/6/4 steel spec.
WANDERING STAR £44,950
LOCKDOWN
£56,950
New just arrived, 65ft semi-trad, 2007 built by Liverpool Boats, immaculate internal with new bathroom and kitchen, Isuzu 42 engine, last blacked 2020. BSC March 2024.
47ft 6”, 2011, Probuild/Black Prince. A lovely 2 + 2 berth cruiser stern Narrow Boat, With Canaline 42 engine.
SHOOTING STAR £44,950
KENTISH STAR
£39,950
58ft, 2009, Probuild/Black Prince, 6 + 2 berth - the ideal family boat with optional sleeping arrangement of 2 single beds / 4 bunk beds / double bed in the rear cabin. Isuzu 42Hp engine.
50ft, 2011, Drayton Boat Services. Shooting Star is a well appointed 2 + 2 berth fitted with a Vetus M4.17 engine.
VISIT US AT Alvecote Marina, Robeys Lane, Alvecote, Tamworth B78 1AS Tel 01827 898585 narrowcraft@alvecotemarina.co.uk Tuesday - Saturday 08.30 - 17.30. Sundays & Mondays by appointment
For latest info and offers, follow us on twitter @AlvecoteMarina ON THE COVENTRY CANAL - ONLY 5 MINS FROM J10 M42 BY ROAD
www.AlvecoteMarina.co.uk
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SERVICES
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62 READER ADVERTS/NEWS
March 2024
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READER ADVERTS River Canal Rescue Selling your boat is FREE for private readers of Towpath Talk For Sale
41FT NARROWBOAT Grace is a 30-year-old cruiser stern narrowboat, equipped with a Webasto heater, electrical fridge and gas cooker, as well as a solar panel, has a solid fuel burner, October 2023 had a full out of water survey and was judged to be in good condition, the hull was blacked in October 2023, BSS Certificate is valid until January 2028 and the Gas Safety Inspection was conducted in September 2023, serviced in April 2023 and was fitted with three new batteries, £42,500 Tel. 07710 975830.
DUTCH BARGE large residential, very spacious liveaboard, or a weekend retreat, at Gravesend Embankment (residential) Marina near a very nice park on the banks of the Thames; and near the town with shops etc, has a log burner, diesel-fired central heating, electric heating, main bedroom has a large king-size bed, second bedroom can be a bedroom or a study or workshop, £79,950 Tel. 07803 938805. 48FT NARROWBOAT purchased the boat from Worcester Marina back in November 2020 to be used for family holidays, boat has been fully serviced and maintained since it was built in 2007, we have fitted a new economical dieselfuelled central heating system, front and back cratches, new flooring and new bathroom, boat is ready to cruise and has never let us down please come and have a viewing, £52,000 Tel. 07977 111838.
Parts For Sale
NAUTI BUOY lovely 60ft semitraditional narrowboat owned from new, very well looked after and a boat to be proud of, entering the pram-covered stern into the very popular reverse layout boat with the galley first, well appointed with fridge/freezer, free-standing cooker, granite work surfaces and plenty of storage, small dinette, 2 easy chairs & fitted TV, multi fuel stove & Webasto central heating to 2 designer radiators and towel radiator, great narrowboat for the liveaboard or extended cruising, £99,950 Tel. 07960 768724.
WIDEBEAM HOUSEBOAT Albee was designed to maximise space for a family of four, has three bedrooms and a large 20ftplus living area and a generous kitchen, roof has been enclosed with railings to make a massive roof terrace giving wonderful views back down the Thames. Albee is located on Ash Island, a tranquil and private boating community and comes on a fully residential mooring. This part of the river is fantastic for swimming, paddleboarding and cruising, £159,000 Email. richardturpin10@ gmail.com
GENERATOR Petrol 2.3 fourstroke unleaded generator, in good condition, hardly used, been in storage in a dry garage, £300 or nearest offer Tel. 07909 586614. Email. jacqueline.peachey@ icloud.com SABB 2H diesel engine with gearbox, full nut and bolt rebuild with new gaskets and parts including starter motor and alternator. Also Sabb model G diesel engine with full nut and bolt rebuild with new gaskets and parts and new manifold also starter motor, both engines include s/ gear. Also for sale national 2 DM diesel engine full strip down and rebuilt including new bearings, pistons and RN conversions trunk and support for new PRM gearbox Tel. 01254 202341. STUART TURNER marine engine 4hp with reverse gear and raised hand start on works, fitted base drip tray with locating positions for securing a boat hull, this engine has never been installed and comes complete with full stern gear and brass exhaust and copper piping and fittings, would be lovely in a launch or cruiser. Also Stuart Turner 3hp engine type 5LY on timber supports hand start from flywheel end, both engines are magnificent with the brass work, contact for further details Tel. 01254 202341.
still in high demand
RIVER Canal Rescue (RCR) reports it responded to 121 major incidents in 2023. These were emergency situations either involving submerged, partially sunken or grounded craft, plus salvage work. The figure is marginally down from the 130 incidents reported in 2022, despite more rescue jobs being undertaken in the summer; RCR experienced a quiet period between January and March, which is historically a much busier time. Stephanie Horton, RCR managing director, said: “Our waterways are becoming increasingly popular and while RCR is always on hand to help when and where we’re needed most, we always urge owners to give their boats a once-over before starting any journey and carry some spares – a bit of preparation before you set sail can make a big difference to the success of your journey.” Similar to previous years, the
Wanted
NARROWBOAT Amanda II, 42ft steel narrowboat, tug style with Gardner 4LK engine, PRM 160 gearbox, twin prop ‘sleipner’ 7hp bow thruster, traditional boatsman cabin, toilet, shower, handbasin, recent survey, £28,500 Tel. 07860 166810.
INSTRUCTION MANUAL for Electrolux Travel Rover GFA 2302 black box version Tel. 01233 639191. HONDA outboard control box side mount L/H complete with cables if possible to fit Norman 23 Cruiser Tel. 01785 611336. Staffs.
Miscellaneous WATERWAYS WORLD 50 copies, 2013 to 2021, mostly complete years, good condition, over £200 retail, yours for £25 ono Tel. 07946 664749. Staffs.
An engineer checking the engine.
Victim of a lock cill. PHOTOS: SUPPLIED. number of general call-outs, such as electrical, fuel and engine issues, flat batteries, overheating and gearbox failures, topped 3000; at 3335, down from 3411 a year earlier. Around 300 of these were return visits.
RCR engineers responded to 86% of call-outs while 14% were handled by approved contractors. Stephanie added: “With there being fewer engineers, in general, on the waterways this has increased demand for the services of our canal contracting team, which in turn is leading to longer lead times. We are therefore continually looking for good quality engineers to join our team.” RCR’s canal contracting service organised 593 visits to undertake a variety of work, including: plumbing and electrical installations, gearbox replacements, inverter, solar installations and general engine maintenance; up from 499 in 2022. There were also 515 engine inspections booked in, 417 of which combined inspections with services. Its subsidiary, Key Diesels, whose team fits and supplies new and refurbished engines nationwide, completed 20 engine replacements/ installs, sold 15 new and used engines direct to customers, worked on 18 customers’ engines and refurbished/ provided 16 gearboxes. For more info visit: www.rivercanalrescue.co.uk
ON IRISH WATERS WITH ALISON ALDERTON 63
www.towpathtalk.co.uk March 2024
Leighlinbridge’s greatest son
BOATERS can now visit a memorial to the renowned scientist John Tyndall at the Garden of Remembrance on the banks of the River Barrow at his birthplace, Leighlinbridge, County Carlow, Ireland. Ty n d a l l studied mathematics and their d application to land d surveying. He was hired as a draughtsman by the Ordnance Survey and during the railway building boom of the 1840s his skills were much in demand. By 1848 he had teamed up with Edward Frankland, who previouslyy worked as a chemica al laboratory assistant for the British Geological Surveyy and b together they studied at Marburg University in Germany to further their scientific education. In 1853, Tyndall attained the prestigious appointment of Professor of Natural Physics at the Royal Institute in London, due in no small part to the esteem his work had garnered from Michael Faraday, the leader of magnetic investigations at the Royal Institute. Tyndall visited the Alps in 1856 for scientific reasons but ended up
becoming a pioneering mountain climber and was a member of one of the early teams to reach the top of the Matterhorn. During this time Tyndall studied glaciers and developed the concept that heat from the sun penetrat penetrates the atmosphere more easily than terrestrial rad iation from the wa armed Earth, causing w what we now call the ggreenhouse effect. Tyndall explained why the sky is blue in
his lecture at the Royal Institution in London. During his research on the radiant energy of air, he constructed a glass tube that simulated the atmosphere, with a source of white light at one end representing the sun. Tyndall observed that blue light scattered more due to its shorter wavelength, while red light penetrates more because it has the longest wavelength of visible light. When the sun is high in the sky, during the daytime, the distance that light travels through the atmosphere is short and we observe the blue light.
Inset: photographic portrait of John Tyndall.
The Barrow at Leighlinbridge.
Revised draft bylaws still dividing waterway groups and users WATERWAYS Ireland (WI) released the updated and revised drafts of proposed bylaws on Monday, January 15. These cover the Shannon Navigation, the Royal and Grand Canals and the Barrow. It also released a comprehensive consultation report. President of the Inland Waterways Association of Ireland (IWAI), Kay Baxter, stated: “IWAI Executive are pleased to note that almost all of the red line issues raised by us on behalf of our members have been addressed and amended in a positive fashion.” These are listed below.
Shannon draft bylaws:
• Retention of winter mooring on the Shannon Navigation at a fee of €300, in designated harbours with services retained for the winter period. • Retention of the five-day rule in all harbours on the Shannon Navigation. • Introduction of a 60-day visitor’s pass to the Shannon Navigation at a cost of €40, to facilitate boats entering the inland waterways from outside the jurisdiction. • Tenders can be registered as part of annual registration of associated larger boats at no cost.
Both Shannon & Canals bylaws:
• Removal of proposed speed limit on greenways, blueways and cycleways. • EU Recreational Craft Directive applies to boats on the Shannon Navigation and Canals. • Emissions from stoves on boats will comply with the Air Pollution Act 1987. • IWAI has also received a guarantee that all monies emanating from the registration fees will be ring-fenced for improvements in facilities and services.
Restricted navigation
Other boating groups, such as the Irish Residential Boat Owners Association (IRBOA), have been left more than unhappy with the revision. Despite the revised prices for houseboat moorings, the fees have been described as ‘unreachable’ for the majority. Originally set up in 2010 by a small group of houseboat dwellers, IRBOA sprang back into life during 2023 and
is now very much at the forefront of representation for liveaboards and houseboat communities in Ireland. The group aims to promote and inform politicians, the public and other interested groups about the houseboat communities. One of the group’s major concerns is that navigation from Lock 12 to Lock 16 on both the Royal and Grand Canals will be restricted and lead to a lack of use on these stretches of canals. This also has the potential to not only reduce any potential boating tourism but also income to the local community as well as divide current liveaboard communities in towns such as Sallins, Hazelhatch, Kilkock and Maynooth. With the second phase of public consultation now closed (February 26) it is yet another anxious wait for many. You can find out more at: www.irboa. ie or by visiting the Facebook page, aptly named ‘Don’t Empty the Canals’.
With the sun low on the horizon, at dawn and dusk, the distance that light travels through the atmosphere increases and blue light is absorbed before reaching our line of sight and we observe red light. Throughout his life, Tyndall always tried to explain his theories and experiments in the simplest and most practical way so that even those with limited scientific knowledge could understand his reasoning. It is through this practical simplification that Tyndall was responsible for a varied array of novel inventions including a system for measuring the amount of carbon dioxide in a sample of exhaled human breath – the basis of which, today, is in daily use in hospitals for monitoring patients under anaesthesia. The striking memorial by Berlinborn sculptor Ralf Sander features two parallel pillars of blue Carlow limestone, in a reference to alpinism and Tyndall’s glaciological studies. There is a central mirror, made of durable marine-grade stainless steel, placed between the pillars, which allows the sky to be viewed without looking up. Images on a glass plate portray some of Tyndall’s experimental layouts and glacier studies. A bronze bust of Tyndall, on a limestone pedestal, sits to the side of the installation. It is a surprising find alongside a quiet, rural navigation but through his environmental and scientific theories, show that Tyndall was indeed a man ahead of his time. Tyndall died in 1893 and is buried near Hazelmere, England but will always be regarded as Leighlinbridge’s greatest son who began life on the banks of the River Barrow.
Bronze bust of John Tyndall.
Acknowledgements
My thanks to the IWAI, Roger Harrington, John O’Gorman and Towpath Tim for the use of photos in conjunction with this feature.
Alpine memorial to John Tyndall
(WHIGLER, CC-BY-SA 4.0)
Mirror for viewing the sky.
Royal & Grand Canals bylaws:
• Reduction in the cost of houseboat permits in the suburban areas on the canals by €500 per annum. • Introduction of a five-day rule in selected canal harbours to promote water sports activities. • Designated five-day rule area in Shannon Harbour and Richmond Harbour, with the remaining berths available for longer use. • Introduction of a 60-day visitor’s pass to the canals at a cost of €40. • Definitions of a serviced mooring and a houseboat provided.
Liveaboard boaters on the Grand Canal. PHOTO: ALISON ALDERTON
The John Tyndall Memorial at Leighlinbridge.
64 GREAT OUTDOORS
March 2024 www.towpathtalk.co.uk
A deerhound called Archie Article and photos by Kevin Thomas
WE have lived on a narrowboat for eight years and throughout that time I’ve done a fair amount of towpath walking. During those walks, I’ve come across a diverse variety of different dog breeds. There’s one breed, however, which goes against the norm when we think of dog breeds that live on narrowboats, and the breed in question is the leggy Scottish deerhound, certainly an old and relatively rare breed. And yet, here in Caen Hill Marina we have a delightful couple, Gavin and Frances, with their equally delightful Scottish deerhound, or just plain deerhound as they are more commonly known. I recently caught up for a quick chat with Gavin, Frances and Archie. Archie, who is now two-and-a-half years old, isn’t exactly unknown to me because we’ve watched him going off for his daily walks with either Frances or Gavin ever since he was a young, gangly puppy. And whenever we saw him, all legs and wavy grey flecked coat, we marvelled at how on earth he fitted into narrowboat life. I mean, he’s a tall and relatively long hound. You sort of generate a mental image of the head at one end of the boat and tail at the other, with his back perhaps a mere inch or two from the interior cabin ceiling! Gavin and Frances soon put me right. Their lovely, friendly and affectionate Archie loves
A play on birds
TOWPATH
Frances, Gavin and Archie the deerhound relaxing prior to going for a walk. boat life and fits in perfectly on their 57ft narrowboat Merdeka. The boat name, incidentally, means ‘independent’ or ‘free’ in Indonesian and Malay. Indeed, a fitting boat name for a happy couple and their equally happy Archie. While chatting, I asked why the choice of a deerhound as a breed for a
liveaboard, and Frances told me that as a young girl she had owned an adorable deerhound cross. It was those memories which made her decide to look for a pedigree deerhound. Their search led them to a recognised and reputable breeder in the Midlands. Archie was considered the runt in a 12-puppy litter
BUSY on the banks of our canals and rivers the water vole is generally on the move, finding and eating vegetation, nibbling it at almost exactly 45 degrees, patrolling its territory and tunnelling, with its teeth, into soft banks to make their homes – but sometimes they are to be found at the mouth of their burrows having a snack from the little ‘lawn’ they have created out in front. An idyllic pastoral scene and a rosy picture that many of us like to think of but, in reality, their fate has been very much in the hands of man. Changes in river management, agricultural techniques and, not forgetting, the freeing of many mink from fur farms in the 1970s – which turned out to be a disaster for the water vole population, and is a fine example of unexpected consequences – means
A happy vole enjoying some blackberries. PHOTO: NICK ROBERT LAY
their population has seen a massive drop of some 80% and in some areas, they are all but extinct! This makes them the most endangered mammal species in Britain.
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but looking at him now, you certainly wouldn’t think so. Granted, he is still leggy but that’s in the breed's DNA. They need to be leggy because they were originally bred for coursing red deer in Scotland, and not unlike the greyhound, deerhounds course by sight not scent. Archie can be proud of his pedigree because he has a brother, Floyd, currently being trained for film work. Another interesting point regarding the breed, which Frances mentioned, is that despite the ruffled wiry coat, they don’t shed hair, a handy plus for a boat-dwelling dog
breed. While we sat chatting, Archie’s keen inquisitiveness and intelligence came through clearly, and he isn’t shy to let his owners know when he thinks it’s time to go for a walk. He lets them know with a few communicative barks. Gavin and Frances clearly ensure Archie always has one of them for company, and he in turn shows his contentedness through his loyalty and affection. I for one will always enjoy seeing Archie out on the towpath, even though he’s a bit like a thoroughbred racehorse champing at the bit.
Rustle and plop – the fall and rise of the water vole on the Montgomery Canal
TALK
Ken Norman continues his series of frivolous bird cartoons which he creates while relaxing on board his narrowboat Daedalus.
Archie in pensive mood.
Swimming home. PHOTO: CHLOE WALKERÅ
Jenny Spelling, an ecologist with Canal & River Trust (CRT), covering much of the Montgomery, Shropshire Union and part of the Trent and Mersey canals, painted a positive picture when she said: “Work to encourage these charming little creatures back to the canals is so very important as they are an integral part of our ecosystem, and their burrowing, feeding and hiding places provide the conditions for other animal and plant life to flourish, and we are making good, if a little slow, progress. “There have been several focused projects, one being the Green Recovery Challenge Fund with money from the Heritage Lottery which was a fund set up to kick-start environmental renewal and
was taken advantage of by CRT as they targeted suitable, mink-free areas to create habitat. When I say, ‘mink free’ I mean areas where there has been no evidence or sightings of mink – it can’t be a precise science. There are already thriving colonies in Whitchurch, Shropshire and where the Montgomery joins the Llangollen canal at Frankton Junction.” During the restoration of any canal, there is much time, energy and money spent on mitigating for all species of plant and animal that may be affected by the work. The Montgomery Canal is no exception with the three Aston Nature reserves, a good example of created habitat on a reasonably grand scale. The restoration can also offer up opportunities for new habitats on the line of the canal itself.
Jenny continued: “The Montgomery Canal is at a very exciting stage, just south of Crickheath Bridge, as the Shropshire Union Canal Society and the restoration contractors for CRT have the chance to build tailor-made water vole habitat. “Tom Fulda, the project manager, and his team are working with myself, another ecologist, Glyn Stewart, and CRT on the design so the conditions that will attract water voles will be a part of the built structure and hopefully we will see results in the next couple of years.” So, let’s hope that in the not-too-distant future, water voles will be attracted by the possibilities of life on the Monty, and we can, once again, hear the rustle and plop as these wonderful little fellows go about their busy lives.
Here’s hoping the water vole is attracted to life on the Monty. PHOTO: NICK ROBERT LAY
SCOTTISH WATERS with Cicely Oliver 65
www.towpathtalk.co.uk March 2024
Joint plans unlocked for the Union Canal
EDINBURGH City Council and Scottish Canals have revealed plans to refocus efforts to improve the popular and historic Union Canal and launched a new Edinburgh Union Canal Strategy 2024-29. The Edinburgh Union Canal Partnership, comprising City of Edinburgh Council and Scottish Canals, worked with key groups along the canal and partner organisations to update the plan. The strategy includes continuing partnerships to grow and create skillsbased training opportunities and to protect and enhance the canal’s biodiversity through education and volunteering. It’s also hoped to increase signage to promote responsible behaviour along the canal, where resources and finance allow, in response to one of the key areas identified within the consultation process. The canal’s 200th anniversary was celebrated in 2022 and the announcement of the refreshed fiveyear strategy recognises the heritage, biodiversity and community on and around the canal, opportunities for active travel and the importance of protecting the canal’s longevity. The strategy can be found in full at: www.scottishcanals.co.uk
All Aboard on the Union Canal. PHOTO: PEOPLE KNOW HOW.
A thousand hours on the canal
Leamington Lift Bridge lit up to celebrate the Union Canal’s 200th anniversary. PHOTOS: SCOTTISH CANALS
Right: At the launch of the new strategy: Scottish Canals CEO John Paterson, Coun Val Walker, Coun Scott Arthur, and Rebecca Smith, canal officer, City of Edinburgh Council are pictured with representatives from Fountainbridge Canalside Community Trust, Edinburgh Union Canal Society and St Andrews Boat Club, George Heriot Rowing Club, Scottish Waterways for All, and Merchiston Community Council.
Volunteers
All Aboard also provides opportunities forvolunteeringascreworhelmsperson and has given those involved the opportunity to learn new skills and interact with guests, expanding their networks and horizons. July 2023 saw a unique collaboration for All Aboard as it hosted Borscht Voyage, fundraising for those affected by flooding in
New reopening date for Crinan Canal SCOTTISH Canals is anticipating reopening the Crinan Canal to boat traffic on April 30. This is the third year of work to replace lock gates along the canal, with the installation of new gates at Lock 15, Crinan sea lock, the focus this year, alongside upgrading operating equipment for new electrical gate actuators. Work is on schedule despite the winter storms and the new gates are in place in the sea lock. A leak in the Crinan dummy lock was temporarily repaired last year. Dewatering of the canal basin allowed a full investigation and planned repair which will be carried out immediately after work on Lock 15 is complete. Subject to Scottish Canals obtaining the relevant regulatory consent (required as the historic importance of Scotland’s canals is recognised in their Scheduled Ancient Monument status), the reopening of the canal has been pushed back from mid-April to the end of the month. There was public outcry at the original proposed closure of the canal at Crinan to mid-May, with local businesses hoping that the project would have been completed by the end of March, in time for Easter. A compromise was reached with reopening planned for mid-April. The dummy lock is in fact the original sea lock. The Crinan Canal was first opened in 1801. By the early
ALMOST two and a half years after her launch, All Aboard has reached the milestone of 1000 hours on the canal – that’s more than 200 boat trips along the Union Canal. All Aboard is a widebeam boat run by Edinburgh-based social innovation charity People Know How in partnership with Polwarth Parish Church, the church with a unique city location adjacent to the canal. A joint consultation in 2019 highlighted the importance of the canal to local people and a project was initiated to celebrate the canal, its heritage and community. The custom-built boat was officially launched in September 2021 and hosts trips on the canal for community groups and organisations to support health and well-being, and provide opportunities to socialise, enjoy nature and be on the water in the heart of the city.
1930s the sea locks at each end of the canal (at Crinan and Ardrishaig) needed significant and costly repairs. It was decided to construct new sea locks at both locations, allowing the canal to be accessed during a wider window of the tides. At Crinan, the new lock was built to accommodate larger vessels and the basin was extended to act as a harbour. The old lock became the ‘dummy lock’ with the downstream gates used to form a permanent shutter with a concrete-capped infill to seal it. Today the old chamber provides more mooring space. The leak is in the old, sealed gates, caused over time by the action of the tides, resulting in extensive loss of the infill material, increased risk of structural failure and requiring a robust long-term repair.
Installing the stop planks in the sea lock. PHOTO: SCOTTISH CANALS/ MACKENZIE CONSTRUCTION
the Kherson region of Ukraine. The fundraising event made use of both All Aboard and Polwarth Church, with activities celebrating Ukrainian history and culture, home-made food including the event’s namesake Borscht (a soup made from beetroot), and trips along the canal. Collaboration between All Aboard volunteers, the church and a team of Ukrainian volunteers made the event a success, raising £1600.
Parliament
The All Aboard project has been commended by Scottish Parliament and featured by Songs of Praise and Scottish TV. Trips start from the boat’s mooring at Polwarth Pontoon, beside the church, and head out to Slateford Aqueduct which carries the Union Canal over the Water of Leith. The return trip takes around two hours and can accommodate up to 12 passengers. As well as fundraising events, all sorts of trips have been hosted, including concerts and exhibitions, canal cleanups and children’s clubs. If you, or someone you know, is part of a community group, you’re most welcome on board All Aboard as she embarks on the next 1000 hours on the canal. To book a trip or check out volunteering opportunities, visit peopleknowhow.org
Volunteer on the water IF THE advent of spring and the upcoming Easter holidays are making you think about getting out and about, there are lots of opportunities for volunteering and getting on to the water on the Lowland canals. The Linlithgow Union Canal Society (LUCS), is based at Manse Road Basin on the Union Canal in Linlithgow. As with all the canal-based organisations, promotion of the canal and enjoyment are paramount at LUCS. Regular boat trips are offered, along with selfdrive and crewed boat hire. There’s a friendly tearoom and Scotland’s only canal museum. Volunteers are always welcome, whether onshore or on the boats. A mentoring system gives new members a point of contact and introduction to other members. LUCS’ flagship Victoria was built in 1972 and acquired in 1975. The ageing diesel engine needs replacing and LUCS intends to install electric propulsion, with a celebratory relaunch in 2025, LUCS 50th
anniversary year. The task of replacing the engine will be carried out by LUCS volunteers, following a design approved by a specialist installer. As well as the fundraising needed, there will be plenty of opportunities for volunteering on this project and any of the many activities needed to keep the society ticking along. Visit lucs.org.uk for information about the society, boat trips and volunteering. Go Forth and Clyde is based close to Lock 16 in Falkirk, on the Forth & Clyde Canal and just a mile or so east of the Falkirk Wheel. The charity is a group of local volunteers, united by their love of the canal for the
Jaggy Thistle moored at Go Forth and Clyde’s base. PHOTO: CALLUM FREW.
Moored boats perched above Linlithgow in Manse Road Basin. PHOTO: JONATHAN MOSSE. benefit of local communities and the environment, with a small staff team and a volunteer board of local people. Activities and events include woodwork and other crafts, bike maintenance and repair, and the opportunity for RYA inland waterways training. Go Forth and Clyde works with Scottish Canals and manages the eastern locks on the Forth & Clyde, between Lock 3 at the Kelpies and Lock 20 at Banknock, with its dedicated team of volunteer lock keepers. They’re always on the lookout for new volunteers, for lock keeping and bike maintenance. Lock keeping is a unique volunteering experience, welcoming visitors, working along the canal and cycling
between locks. All training and equipment is provided by the friendly team. The icing on Go Forth and Clyde’s cake is Jaggy Thistle, a 35ft day-boat available for self-drive hire and suitable for up to eight passengers. She’s easy and fun to manage (I know because I enjoyed an RYA Inland Waterways Skipper’s course onboard Jaggy Thistle) and hirers get a 30-minute briefing before casting off. Many hirers head along to the Falkirk Wheel and up on to the Union Canal towards Linlithgow for a fun day out. Well-behaved dogs are welcome aboard. Jaggy Thistle is raring to go with a new engine installed at the beginning of February. Find out more at goforthandclyde.org.uk
66 DAYS OUT
March 2024
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Foxton Locks and boiler house museum, surrounded by glorious Leicestershire country ryside. y
Days Out –
Foxton Locks
Colour-coded lock mechanisms.
This series picks locations for great days out near some very special canal highlights – anything from the perfect spot for gongoozling (watching boating activities) to an idyllic towpath stroll past extraordinary waterways heritage sightseeing, or perhaps a short boat trip and even a bit of souvenir shopping. The canals are full of heritage and engineering wonders and are also a calm haven for a wide diversity of wildlife and birds. You’ll also see boats on the move and breathe the balm of water in rustling green surroundings. Words and images – Coolcanals: Phillippa Greenwood and Martine O’Callaghan
FOXTON is a highlight of the canal network, with soaring views over real scarecrow countryside. This staircase flight of 10 locks tumbles 75ft downhill using 25,000 gallons of water for every boat travelling through. In its heyday, Foxton Locks served horse-pulled working boats laden with cargoes of sugar, tea, soap, tinned food, chemicals and paper. There are former stables by the top lock, a museum in the old boiler house and the remains of Foxton Inclined Plane, an acropolis of canal heritage with the rubble of its
carriage tracks tantalisingly almost intact. The plane lifted boats from the canal at the bottom of the hill to the canal at the higher level, hauling them over dry land in a fraction of the time through the locks. In July 1900, crowds dressed in Panama hats and excitement to celebrate its opening, but after only 10 years in service, the plane was deemed too expensive to maintain and was abandoned in 1911. Foxton is a place to wallow in the sheer joy of the living heritage of Britain’s canals. The scene remains virtually unchanged for generations – except laden working canal boats have been replaced by leisure boats providing a good show for gongoozling visitors.
Peaceful canal above the locks.
Well-placed pub below the locks.
ANGLING 67
www.towpathtalk.co.uk March 2024
The Towpath Angler
David Kent
Our monthly look at the angling scene ANYONE who read my last article in Towpath Talk will recall my talking about inconsiderate behaviour by some users which impacts upon and greatly diminishes the enjoyment of our waterways by the majority of other users. Just three weeks into a new year, a story of very inconsiderate practice by a boater came to light. Thankfully this incident has been registered “in the system” so, hopefully, there will be an outcome which clearly spells out what is acceptable and what is not acceptable. The trust’s mantra of sharing the towpaths must be upheld for the benefit of all. No one has the divine right to act in such a way that causes problems for others. As a further example, my wife and I walked along the local canal just last Thursday. Because of all the wet weather the towpath, which generally has a decent surface, was not surprisingly dotted with puddles. There were a number of other pedestrians, dog walkers and cyclists out enjoying the afternoon sunshine. A couple of hundred yards from the point at which we were due to leave the towpath we passed a couple walking their dog and stopped for a chat. Suddenly a lycra-clad cyclist came hurtling past, shouting and swearing at us to get out of his way. The lady with whom we were talking got badly splashed as he tore through a nearby puddle. Needless to say, he did not stop.
Bottom of the lock flight.
Storm impact
Boat heading up through the locks.
FACT FILE Foxton Inclined Plane and Locks
From the bottom of the hill, narrowboats were lifted sideways, in two caissons (water-holding tanks). The caissons were hauled uphill to the higher level by a cable and a steamdriven winch. Although quicker than the locks, the Foxton Inclined Plane was abandoned after only 10 years of use because it cost too much to keep in operation. Foxton Inclined Plane is a Scheduled Ancient Monument and Foxton Locks are Grade II* listed. The lock keeper’s cottage by Top Lock and lock keeper’s cottage, stable block and craft shop by Bottom Lock are all Grade II listed. The Inclined Plane and the Staircase Locks have also both been awarded Transport Trust Red Wheel Plaques. www.nationaltransporttrust.org.uk The boiler house
Foxton Inclined Plane Trust works to engender interest in the inclined plane and runs a museum in the
old lift’s boiler house. The Foxton Inclined Plane Trust concentrates on preserving what remains of the plane and keeping the heritage of the site alive using new technologies. www.fipt.org.uk Location
Foxton OS Grid ref: SP691897 Canal: Grand Union Canal Leicester Section How to get there By train
Nearest train station is Market Harborough National Rail Enquiries T: 08457 484950 By bus
Traveline T: 0871 2002233 By car
Large car park (charge), a short walk from the canal On foot
The towpaths at Foxton are regularly
used by walkers and cyclists, and the locks are part of several local walking trails. Sustrans National Cycle Network Route 6 follows the canal towpath from Foxton to Market Harborough. By boat Nearest boat hire and boat trips
Boutique Narrowboats, Market Harborough: www.boutiquenarrowboats.co.uk Foxton Boat Services, Foxton: www.foxtonboats.co.uk North Kilworth Narrowboat Hire, North Kilworth Wharf: www.northkilworthboats.com Moorings
Plenty of visitor moorings above and below the locks Local tourist info
Leicestershire Tourist Information: www.goleicestershire.com Foxton Inclined Plane Trust: www.fipt.org.uk
Having just seen the passing of the 10th named storm of the winter and all the horrendous damage and misery these storms have caused it is pleasing to see that the weather has settled for a while. Obviously, rivers have been out of their banks for weeks and this, in turn, has created some serious problems on the canal network, including breaches and overtopping, especially on those riverine canal sections. Of course, there are changes happening to Earth’s climate with factors from across the globe creating weather scenarios rarely seen. Interestingly though, in mentioning just how long the rivers have been out of bank this winter, I remember vividly, when just about all coarse fishing took place on rivers, canals and some small pools, that the rivers were annually unfishable through until the middle of March. In fact, my father and others of his generation frequently used the term February filldyke. I guess it begs the question: are things that different now? In those days when I fished the rivers the high water did not generally deter us unless, of course, there were clear
safety issues. We would look for slack water in little bays or behind a tree and fish with light tackle, hoping for a few small fish. On other occasions, we would fish a swimfeeder carrying plenty of lead to “nail” it to the river bed. Usually, this method did not produce many bites but often any fish caught would be sizeable. These days it is unusual for any angler to fish a flooded river other than, possibly, the odd specialist angler, especially those who specifically target barbel in the firm belief that the best sport is to be had when rivers are carrying flood water. I think it is true to say that we are all much more safety conscious these days so, thankfully, these sessions rarely produce any problems.
Quite the catch
Catch-wise I have, again, heard some good reports from the Shropshire Union. Speaking to a friend of mine earlier this week, he told me that his weekly trip to the Grand Union had been his most productive of the winter. He caught a number of small roach and bream which he estimated to have weighed around 4lb. One of my fishing buddies spent an afternoon on my local Erewash Canal last Sunday. He, too, had had around 30 small fish despite the water being extremely “muddy” following the rains. It seems as though the commercials are producing some decent sport, probably benefiting from the higher-than-normal temperatures and, importantly, frostfree nights. I have only been on the bank twice during January. I fished a small open contest on my local commercial where I drew a peg which has a good reputation in summer. I caught just one fish but had my chances to do better. I then fished with a “veterans “ group. My peg was in a pretty decent area and, once I sussed it out, caught a few fish which put me third overall but ruing having lost six fish at the net. It was a lovely, sunny day throughout so the bonus was we all went home dry. Tight lines.
Casting the net for licensees
THE management of a three-reservoir commercial fishery near Solihull is being put out to tender. Licensees are being sought to manage Earlswood Lakes in the West Midlands; the contract will be for at least five years, starting next month. Canal & River Trust rents out fishing rights to more than 240 angling clubs as well as running a significant commercial fisheries portfolio. It also runs the award-winning Let’s Fish programme, which introduces thousands of children and adults to
the sport each year. Faced with the challenge of meeting the costs of managing an ageing canal network against the backdrop of a significant reduction in government funding and increasing stormrelated damage driven by climate change, the trust is ensuring it is receiving the best value for its fishing rights. Earlswood Lakes consists of three 22-acre reservoirs. Engine Pool is heavily stocked with carp and bream ranging from 1lb to 4lb, with fishing matches taking place most
weekends throughout the year. Windmill Pool sees catches of roach, bream and skimmers during the warmer months and excellent pike fishing during the winter months. Terry’s Pool is a natural fishery with large carp, eels and pike. New or existing licensees are now invited to register interest in tendering. The deadline to submit tenders is midnight, March 17, with interviews on March 26. Enquiries should be directed to: fisheries@ canalrivertrust.org.uk
68 WET WEB/REVIEW
March 2024
The Wet Web By Helen Gazeley
FINALLY, spring is on the horizon! Easter at the end of the month, and thoughts of sunny days with… well, a festival vibe? There are any number of music festivals on the calendar but tickets can be eye-wateringly expensive. So, here’s a rundown of a few musically flavoured events around the canal network that are free to attend. At the end of this month, over the Easter weekend, Sheffield will be holding its Folk Sessions Festival in the pubs in the Kelham Island area of the city. Last year included a wide variety of folk styles, including Irish and bagpipe music, and there’s a Big Sing from 8pm each evening to which all are welcome. This year’s programme hadn’t been released at the time of writing. So, visit the Facebook page (www.facebook.com/SheffieldSessionsFestival) for information updates. A great excuse to visit the lovely Ashby Canal is the Moira Furnace Canal Festival (www. moiracanalfestival.com) on May 18-19, which this year hosts the National Trailboat Festival. Live music and bands will include national and local singers, ukelele bands and a headline act of Military Wives Choirs. A Battle of Britain flypast is planned and you’ll find train rides, stalls, demonstrations and boats, bar and refreshments. The Bradford-on-Avon Green Man Festival (www. boagreenmanfest.org) takes place on May 11 and offers traditional dance, music, songs and folklore. An enthusiastic community event, it will have more than 300 dancers—performing European styles as well as, of course, morris dancing—and there’s a chance to try out a dance or two yourself. Ten-feet-tall Jack in the Green, with partner Jill, will be wandering the town with band and menagerie in tow. Music includes folk, choral, samba and blues and there are mummers’ plays and three different street markets. On the other side of Bath, Keynsham (keynshammusicfestival.co.uk), on the Kennet and Avon Canal, sees its annual eight-day music festival from July 1-7. Billed as the largest free community music and arts festival in the South West, it covers a wide range of musical genres.
Included in the line-up are Opera in a Box, who present intimate adaptations in unconventional venues and The Allergies who, since forming in 2012, have topped download charts and featured on BBC Radio 6 Music. In recent years, internationally known street performers have dropped by after Glastonbury, and there are family activities that include circus skills, painting and clay modelling. This year includes, for the first time, a stage for the best performers aged 11-19 from local youth clubs. Later that month are the Cosgrove Canal Festival (July 20-21) and the Linslade Canal Festival (on July 27, at Tiddenfoot Waterside Park) on the Grand Union, on the Buckingham arm and near Leighton Buzzard respectively. Neither has any definite information on their website yet but you can expect trade boats and entertainment at both (Cosgrove organisers are currently advertising for entertainers—amateur and professional, should you feel tempted, www. facebook.com/BuckinghamCanalSociety). Information is sparse on the ground for Linslade (www.leightonlinslade-tc.gov.uk/council_events) at the moment, but it focuses on celebrating canal life, conservation, the countryside and rural crafts. There’ll be trade boats, musical entertainment from local choirs and artists (award-winning duo Leannán were on the bill last year), and demonstrations—be prepared for stick makers, skep builders and wood-carvers. And, winding down the summer, Worcester Music Festival (www.worcestermusicfestival.co.uk) returns on September 13-15, supporting emerging artists, hosting 250 bands in 20 venues around the city over three days, as well as running free musicrelated workshops that include drum clinics and Q&As with industry experts. Donations are encouraged, and they’ve raised nearly £60,000 for charities in the past 11 years since they started. Expect to find a vast range of genres, from rock and metal, to jazz, reggae, country and acoustic acts. Roll on summer! The Worcester Music Festival offers three days of music and music-related events, as well as a photography competition. This image, Capas @ Bottles from Ollie Ridley, made it into the top 20.
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COLIN WAREING Lancashire in January 2019. PHOTO:
eams for 2019 are revealed k’s TTop TTeams T k’s Towpath Talk a s, we bid farewell awn AS A new decade dawn t th to 2019 with the results of our Towpath op Team award which has been Top kT Talk r r. running throughout the year. With four teams shortlisted for the final with vote it was a veryy close-run contest t volunteers ty the Grantham Canal Society taking the title by a short head.
Such was the support also for from Crusader Community Boating first Blisworth that we are awarding our a rd – something Community Boat awa f the we had alreadyy been planning for r r. coming year. of Commended are the Friends the River Nene and the Waterways Chaplaincy’s Martin and Fiona Buck. Award presentations to our finalists
r The r. will take place in the new year. off a winning team receives the hire day boat carrying up to 10 people, generously sponsored by ABC Leisure Group Ltd. The runner-up will receive a £100 voucher to spend at Midland four Chandlers at Braunston and all donation finalists will receive a £100 towards their volunteering organisation the from Mortons Media Group Ltd,
alk. Tal tth T publisher of Towpath Our thanks go to the readers who rose of to the challenge of finding a group aave gone that extra unsung heroes who have f their local stretch off towpath, mile for a association or ays canal or river, waterways a our judging ave community boat – and gave the panel a difficult job of shortlisting four finalists. • Continued on page 2
found on a boat moored Ouse bodies t achievemen f nd 100-dayCommunity of two men were fou probe Action Network (UCAN) THE bodies Boats gunshot were called UPPERMILL Y k city centre. Emergency services after starting in Yor investigating damage to narrowboats POLICE are Officers were after gunshots were fired in Cambridge. a December 5, at around 10.15pm, ay, called on Thursday, f m shots fro after nearbyy residents reported hearing near boats on the what was believed to be an air rifle the window of one River Cam. Photographs off holes in a since been published. One resident ave of the boats have Chesterton the told reporters thatt shots, coming from moored at Browns side of the river, were fired at boats five about for on Field, Fen Ditton, and this went no injuries were minutes. Cambridgeshire Police said reported and enquiries were continuing.
achieved its 100-day volunteering milestone 2300 hours of out in 2015. This included more than who, according voluntary work achieved by local people to, crafting to UCAN, “care about, and are committed environment”. and maintaining our beautiful local and for the positive Thanks were given to all supporters, work parties will feedback from the community. The next 8 and 20. The usual be on January 4 and 23, and February on Moorgate meeting point is 10am at the canal bridge Killan on 01457 Street but this can change. Contact Peter 878361 or peterkillan@hotmail.com
at around 8pm to Lendal Bridge on the River Ouse said officers on December 4. North Yorkshire Police f two men for attended “after concerns were raised with their touch in their 60s who had been out of bodies. Fire .” Upon arrival officers found the family.” The deaths and ambulance services both attended. although did were being treated as ‘unexplained’ a post-mortem not appear to be suspicious and The men had not examination was due to take place. alk went to press. Tal tth T been identified when Towpath
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A thrilling pursuit across land and water Reviewer: Janet Richardson
BOATER Robert Watson has drawn on his experience of the Midlands canal network for one of the locations featured in his first novel Cut to the Chase. Th i s thriller which sees the main character, ex-naval policeman John Clubb, being pursued by rival drugs gangs after a covert operation goes awry, had me hooked right from the start. The scene is set as he sails from a Scottish harbour for a clandestine pick-up
but is beaten to the buoy by a speeding RIB with a crew of three disguised by hooded wetsuits and ski goggles. Clubb finds himself in dangerous waters and returns to shore before heading south, knowing he will be pursued. And after a dramatic escape
from his ex-wife’s house he decides his narrowboat Longfellow, moored at Braunston, is his safest port of call. But is it? The plot is full of twists and turns as the villains including a slick solicitor, a bent copper and the inevitable ‘heavies’ home in on their
target. Cut to the Chase is published as an e-book on Amazon under the name of Robert Watson and will cost £2.35, although it will be available free for a limited period. A paperback version is planned if reaction is favourable.
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The Admiral Nelson beside the Braunston flight – one of the locations in the story. PHOTO: JANET RICHARDSON
TALKBACK/NEWS 69
www.towpathtalk.co.uk March 2024 Your chance to write to us on any towpath topic: Towpath Talk, PO Box 99, Horncastle, Lincs LN9 6LZ or email editorial@towpathtalk.co.uk
Crickheath south before the clearance. PHOTO: CBS Volunteers with the sadly missed Rich Hamp (front left). PHOTO: CBS
Montgomery Canal volunteers celebrate successful year VOLUNTEERS from the Shropshire Union Canal Society (SUCS) have been looking back over 2023 with pride. Dave Carter, chairman of the Shropshire Union Canal Society, said: “Last year will go down in the society’s history as a great year, we had funding from many sponsors, especially the National Heritage Lottery Fund, but without our team of volunteers who turned out in all weathers and worked so hard, none of this would have been possible.” The work of SUCS volunteers had not gone unnoticed and in June the society was awarded the Tetlow Cup, an IWA
regional trophy for outstanding services to the waterways. David said: “Without doubt the crowning achievement was the opening of the canal from Pryces Bridge to Crickheath Bridge within the time limits set by the National Heritage Lottery Fund, within budget, and all despite the Covid lockdowns. As a further length of the Montgomery Canal was now open for navigation, SUCS with Canal & River Trust held a splendid opening ceremony and for the volunteers had a barbecue sponsored by Monty’s Brewery with a barrel of its Navigation Pale Ale on hand to be quaffed. What a day!”
Continued achievements
Attentions then focused on the Crickheath Wharf to Schoolhouse Bridge section with work on the now crumbling wharf wall, a wash-wall and an unsafe towpath to be tackled. The project began with a design brief from CRT engineers coinciding with the fundraising team being granted £14,400 from the Association of Industrial Archaeology for new coping stones for the wall and £1300 from Oswestry Rural Council for the towpath. Work dismantling the wharf, including removing some enormous trees, was completed by SUCS volunteers. The project got a great boost as experts from the Cheshire branch of the Dry-Stone Walling Association stepped up to use their expertise in the restoration of the wharf wall. The powers that be in Shropshire clearly recognised the work the society is doing as the Lord
Lieutenant of Shropshire Anna Turner made a surprise visit to a work party and stayed for much of the day, seeing the volunteers in action.
Donations
Fundraising remained a vital activity as the push to complete the canal to Schoolhouse Bridge continues and in June 2023, an appeal was launched to raise £250,000 towards the first section of the restoration. By the turn of the
year around £125,000 had already been donated to the appeal. The society did not just focus on restoration in 2023; it restarted a volunteer team on enhancement with the purpose of helping maintain the main network for the benefit of all canal users. The first stretch, agreed with CRT, was on the Llangollen Canal between the CRT workshops at Ellesmere and bridge 55 taking in the picturesque area as the canal passes Blakemere.
Tramway wall during during the clearance. PHOTO: SUCS
From newbies to regulars!
Heritage Lottery section in water, and having final work done. PHOTO: SUCS
The newly opened canal in use. PHOTO: CBS
Dear Towpath Talk, As a pair of narrowboat newbies, my friend and I had always wanted to hire a canal boat for the weekend and take a trip along the Leeds and Liverpool canal. Last year, we finally managed to pluck up the courage to do so and hired a boat from a company based out at Skipton. The pleasant weekend that we spent on the water was such a joy that we are now boating regulars. We picked up a copy of Towpath Talk during that first weekend and still try to get a copy each month, whenever we can, to help us plan our next trip! It’s an invaluable resource, keep up the good work. Rebecca Cranage and Cath Drury, North Yorkshire
70 THE LAST WORD
March 2024
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Where did that word come from?
John Souter continues his series exploring the origins of commonly used boating terms. MANY of you may be familiar with what a lot of the words that boaters use mean – but have you ever stopped to wonder where the words we are all too familiar with actually originated from? Here are more examples of words whose origins may hopefully inform you, and, in some cases, perhaps even surprise you.
Keel
This word is often used to refer in a general sense to the very bottom of a vessel, but more correctly it is the principal lengthways metal or timber piece along the base of a ship or boat to which the frames are fixed. The principle involved was that the keel would provide
enough strength for the boat to sit on when not afloat, e.g. when resting on the river bed after the tide has ebbed. From this word derives the term ‘keelhauling’ or ‘to be keelhauled’, referring to being dragged along the very base of a boat or ship as a severe form of punishment. It’s thought to date from the mid-14C, possibly from the Old Norse ‘kjolr’ meaning ‘keel’.
Legging
The method of moving boats through tunnels by people (leggers) pushing the boat, usually by lying on the roof on special boards, with their feet pushing against the tunnel walls.
Birdswood out of the water showing the base of the boat – referred to as the keel. PHOTO: FRIENDS OF CROMFORD CANAL.
This was widely used on horsedrawn boats where tunnels had often been built without a towpath. Often the leggers were the boat’s own crew but some leggers were full-time workers who stationed themselves at most long tunnels specifically for doing this arduous work. The boards, usually attached to the front of a boat, were known as legging boards, or wings, and some boats would carry two sets; one for narrow tunnels and one for wide tunnels. The word most likely comes from a late-13C Scandinavian source e.g. the Old Norse word ‘legger’ meaning ‘leg, leg-bone’, which is believed to have replaced the Old English word ‘shank’ which had a similar meaning.
Lock (also pound lock)
A generally short section of canal or river closed off by gates at either end and between which the water level can be varied up or down to help boats navigate from one water level to another. Controlled changes in the water level within the lock by means of paddles set into the gates or lock sides will allow a boat to rise or fall to its new level as it navigates changes in the contours of the land. The word comes from the Old English word ‘loc’ meaning ‘barrier, enclosure’. This, in turn, led to the development of the specific meaning of ‘a barrier on the river’ around the early 1300s, and then in an even more specific sense in the 1570s of ‘gate and sluice system on a water channel used as a means of raising and lowering boats’.
The lock on the Trent & Mersey Canal at Middlewich. PHOTO: JANET RICHARDSON
Monkey boat
A slang term for a traditional narrowboat found mostly in use by boaters on the Grand Junction and London waterways.
AS THE days lengthen and we see some warmer temperatures and sunshine, our minds drift ahead to the thought of boating, although we are not out of the named storm season yet. Many are still putting right the damage that these inevitably bring. My mind is skipping ahead to thoughts of planning our summer cruising; our CRT Canals and Rivers licence has been paid for another year and, as I have done since the terms and conditions for boat licences were
introduced, I followed my online application up with an email. I only agree the T&Cs in as much as they are lawful. The customer service co-ordinator (national) at the other end did not rise to debate the clauses but legal advice to NABO still stands that the general powers derived from section 43 of the 1962 Transport Act cannot be used as a basis for terms that go beyond s17 of the 1995 BW Act. Having said that I will always endeavour to follow the rules. I actually believe that reasonable behaviour and care to safeguard the fabric and courtesy towards other boaters is a better way of enjoying the waterways and sharing the space rather than taking dictatorial powers to regulate and rule. Rules will only impact those who try to obey them but can’t; those who totally disregard them will do what they like anyway. I have just heard that the boat movement statistics for 2023 showed that there was little change from 2022. My perception was that the canals were much quieter than usual but apparently, that was not the case with just a 2% fall. I navigated quiet parts of the Birmingham Canal Navigation (BCN) last summer and enjoyed it. I thought about joining a BCN Society “explorer cruise” this year but they were booked up when I applied. I am pleased that there is high demand for these as it is
living-in cabin that became the accepted design for narrowboat cabins. ‘Monk boat’ developed into ‘monkey boat’ with usage over a period of time.
A fine example of legging. PHOTO: THE SUE DAY COLLECTION
Looking forward to the year ahead
NABO general secretary Peter Braybrook comments on some more topical issues.
It’s thought that the origin and use of the term is said to have stemmed from a London boat owner called Thomas Monk, who is credited with designing the first
very necessary to use the BCN network or it will become an easy target for closure. This year we will be heading to the East Midlands for the main part.
Council matters
The NABO Council discussed the prospects for a trouble-free cruising season. Last year saw water restrictions because of the continuing Toddbrook Reservoir work and we expect these to continue until the project is finished. As it comes to a conclusion in 2025 other reservoirs will require attention as inspections reveal problems with the 200-year-old structures. Brent (Welsh Harp) is already drained. Understandably, there will be further water conservation measures, but what was noticed last year was that there were a number of fairly lengthy unplanned stoppages that restricted cruising. It is doubtful that the Leeds and Liverpool Canal was ever open for its full length between April and October. We note too that the reservoir capacity of this canal was dropping in January in spite of above average rainfall in most of England and Wales. Could it be short of water again this summer? We are now looking at other canals like the Kennet and Avon Canal and Grand Union Canal to see whether one can realistically plan a whole summer cruise on these. We know of some restrictions imposed by the
construction of HS2 but hope that these will be managed to restrict rather than close the navigation. Many summer cruisers depend on rings for their itinerary so having the canals available from April to October is very important. Stoppages in the middle of a week’s holiday could well result in a disappointing there and back trip rather than completing the ring. I have become aware of a boater that has been charged a widebeam surcharge since it was introduced because the beam of the boat was recorded on the CRT database as 2.8 instead of 2.08 metres which it has been since it was built 20 years ago. The owner did not notice the difference until comparing their licence cost in conversation with another boater who has a boat of similar size. The error has been sorted out now but it has made me wonder whether there are other boats affected and boat owners who have not noticed such a simple mistake. The fact that your “wide beam” boat has a home mooring on a narrow canal will not trigger any alarm bells in the CRT corporate brain.
CRT events
Recently Canal & River Trust held Executive Listening events. Some were online and some were face-to-face. These are an opportunity to meet with a member of the executive team and discuss the minutiae of Canal & River Trust’s operations. Colleagues and volunteers are invited. I have no idea how the attendees are decided but this month three members
of the NABO Council were invited to join in. I am a volunteer though very much in a small way and I think it was with this hat on that I got into the room. I have many differing other roles that bring me into contact with Canal & River Trust and its staff. It was an interesting experience to be in a discussion on many aspects of the trust’s operations with other colleagues and volunteers. The main word that described the meeting’s view of the work of the trust was “challenging”. Those who work for the trust find it challenging to effectively perform their roles in a cash-strapped situation. The engineer would clear all the defects on the canals if he was permitted a “magic wand” but finds that he is always trying to catch up. The managers are doing all they can to reduce staff costs and increase volunteering opportunities, the lawyers are challenged by the maze of legislation and regulation that comes towards them and the volunteers are challenged by the lack of direction and organisation in some areas. Life will always be challenging but as a boater, I don’t expect that every journey should be a challenge against infrastructure failure, decreasing services, reducing water levels and increasing hindrances from vegetation. We need the waterways to be places of relaxation rather than endeavour. Among the overhanging trees and bushes, we probably will not find a magic money tree. If you do find one let me know.
www.towpathtalk.co.uk March 2024
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March 2024
www.towpathtalk.co.uk
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