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96 PAGES

Issue 174, April 2020

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TODDBROOK:

REVIEW FINDINGS HIGHLIGHT DESIGN FLAWS

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FREIGHT MOVEMENTS

TO RETURN TO AIRE & CALDER

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SOMETHING TO HELP BRIGHTEN YOUR DAY

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AWAY FROM IT ALL? A Norbury Wharf hire boat moored at Tixall Wide on the Staffordshire & Worcestershire Canal. Could the inland waterways provide an escape to the country during the coronavirus pandemic? PHOTO SUPPLIED

Boating events cancelled amid virus fears

By Sarah Spencer

WALK THIS WAY BY THE POCKLINGTON CANAL

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FOR BREAKING NEWS & BOATS FOR SALE visit our website

www.towpathtalk.co.uk

BOATS FOR SALE Starts on

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CORONAVIRUS is causing major disruption across the inland waterways with two of the country’s biggest boating events already called off and many more set to follow.

Britain’s biggest inland waterways event Crick Boat Show – that attracts around 30,000 people a year – has been postponed until later in the year, while London’s largest waterside festival the IWA Canalway Cavalcade has been cancelled.

Crick Boat Show was due to take place over the late May Bank Holiday weekend (May 23-25) at Crick Marina near Daventry.

Peter Johns, show director, said: “The health of visitors, exhibitors, volunteers, contractors, suppliers and our staff is paramount and with the currently projected duration of the Covid-19 outbreak, it has become clear that now is the right time for us to postpone the 2020 show.

“We are aware that the show is critical to many waterway-related businesses and is the highlight of the waterways

calendar for many visitors, so we will be working hard to find a suitable alternative date later in the year.

“A number of other events have rescheduled and we will work as quickly as possible on our own plans.”

IWA Canalway Cavalcade should have taken place May 2 and 3.

Paul Rodgers, IWA national chairman, said: “It is with great regret and disappointment that IWA has decided not to proceed with our annual spectacular waterside festival at Little

Venice, owing to the risk the virus presents to volunteers and all those who attend and support the event.

“People travel from across the country to visit and celebrate at the capital’s biggest waterside festival, and with the news that the peak of the virus spread is likely to coincide with the timing of the festival, we felt cancellation was the right decision to take. The festival team will be contacting our exhibitors and attendees.”

• Continued on page 2

Cashless payments

MP supports canal

Cosgrove track approval

CANAL & River Trust is encouraging more boaters to license their craft online as it stops accepting cash payments for large purchases at its offices from April 1. Although boaters won’t be able to make large cash purchases, customers will still be able to make payments at the trust’s office by debit or credit card (except AMEX), or by cheques crossed and payable to ‘Canal & River Trust’. For smaller purchases, such as sanitary station keys, handcuff keys, pump-out cards and electricity cards, boaters can use the trust’s online shop or pay by cash, card or cheque at the trust’s customer-facing offices.

MONTGOMERYSHIRE MP Craig Williams has agreed to become a vice-president of the Montgomery Waterway Restoration Trust. He was elected at last December’s General Election to succeed retiring fellow Conservative MP, Glyn Davies, who is also a trust vice-president. Craig paid tribute to all the work done by the trust to restore the canal, which is something he is passionate about. He added: “I shall do everything I can in Parliament to help reopen the canal to Newtown.” Trust chairman Michael Limbrey said that their local MPs, for Montgomeryshire and North Shropshire, have all supported the restoration of the Montgomery Canal.

BUCKINGHAM Canal Society’s restoration efforts at Cosgrove have been given a boost by planning approval for a new access track.

South Northamptonshire Council approved an application for a new access track at Cosgrove that will mean, once in place, some of the limitations of the farm entrance will be overcome. It will be a while before work commences on this project, as further paperwork is required, along with some cash. Hedge planting required by the planning consent is likely to be a key activity later in the year. Meetings with the landowners were being scheduled.

2 NEWS

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JUST when everyone was looking forward to spring and a chance to enjoy the waterways, the arrival of the coronavirus looks set to decimate the events calendar.

At the time of going to press the events featured in our what’s on section were still ‘live’ but by the time this edition reaches you I am sure many will have been postponed or cancelled.

The holiday hire industry is staying upbeat in the hope that people, who would have previously travelled abroad, will now seek a staycation this summer and have reported an increase in enquiries. But for other businesses such as boatbuilders, canalside pubs and visitor attractions it is a worrying time.

Among the army of volunteers who help to care for their local waterways or community boats – and their passengers – are many people in the ‘at risk’ categories who have been advised to stay at home for the next three months. But the boating community is renowned for showing its support and I am sure that many boaters will rally round to help the more vulnerable in any way they safely can.

Some boat owners are counting the cost of damage caused during the recent storms and River Canal Rescue reported more than 50 major call-outs, see page 4. On the same page is a summary of the findings of the independent review into the Toddbrook Reservoir failure which identified ‘serious hidden design flaws’.

If you are reading this, I expect you have received or picked up your copy of Towpath Talk. Don’t forget you can subscribe so it gets delivered to you (see top of this page).

You can also visit our website at www.towpathtalk.co.uk for breaking news and updates to the diary dates or work party listings.

Stay safe

TOWPATH

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Janet

Editor Janet Richardson jrichardson@mortons.co.uk

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Boating events cancelled amid virus fears

• Continued from page 1 Mark Saxon, chairman of the organising committee, extended his thanks to everyone involved. “My committee and volunteers have been working tirelessly for the past nine months to prepare and organise the event and I thank them and the supporters of our wonderful festival including British Land, Westminster City Council and the Canal & River Trust, and the many other organisations who have been working with us. We look forward to working with you again next year.”

Also added to the list of cancellations was Norbury Canal Festival (May 8-10) with John Myers, trustee, Shrewsbury & Newport Canals Trust, telling Towpath Talk: “Unfortunately, in view of the current coronavirus situation, the organisers of the Norbury Canal Festival have decided that we must cancel this year’s festival. Rest assured we will be back next year!”

Wey & Arun Canal Trust said it had taken the “difficult decision” to suspend all boat trips until at least April 15 and the Canal Centre in Loxwood will be closed until further notice.

The trust apologised for any disappointment the decision caused but said it “has to ensure the safety of both passengers and volunteer boat crew”.

Again at Norbury, popular narrowboat cruises along the Shropshire Union Canal are being suspended.

Norbury Wharf director David Ray, who manages the fish and chip cruises from the firm’s base at Norbury Junction, said: “A relaxing cruise in the countryside is just the thing people need in these troubled times, and we are booked solid for weeks ahead. However, we have looked at the situation carefully and believe the best way to protect our customers and staff is to suspend all our public cruises for the next three weeks aboard The Shropshire Star passenger trip boat.

“We will look at the situation again in two weeks’ time and make further decisions in light of the situation at that time.

“None of our other activities, including our day boats and holiday hire boats, as well as our wharfside cafe, present similar risks, as far as we can work out, so they all remain open.

CANCELLED: London’s largest waterside festival, IWA’S Canalway Cavalcade. PHOTO: IWA

Anglo Welsh open days postponed FOUR Anglo Welsh open days that should have taken place to celebrate the start of the new boating season have now been cancelled.

They were planned to take place on Saturday, March 28, but “in light of the Government’s public health advice regarding Covid-19”, organisers have taken the decision to postpone them.

The events were due to take place at: Tardebigge on the Worcestershire &

Birmingham Canal in Worcestershire; Wootton Wawen on the Stratford Canal in Warwickshire; Great Haywood on the Trent & Mersey Canal in Staffordshire; Whixall on the Prees Branch of the Llangollen Canal in Shropshire.

Rob Lawrence, managing director of Anglo Welsh, said: “We were looking forward to welcoming visitors to our open days to enjoy free canal boat holiday taster sessions, but in light of the

Covid-19 Q&A CANAL & River Trust has compiled a list of ‘frequently asked questions’ and answers that might be useful to our readers regarding c o r o n av i r u s and boating. Here are some of them: SHOULD boaters still be cruising?

OUR canals, rivers and towpaths remain open for use, other than for extended stoppages to complete planned maintenance works, or as a result of recent flood damage. While travelling along a canal by boat does not necessarily put people in close contact with others, boaters may decide to take some

precautions. These could include washing hands after using locks and mooring at quieter places.

Boaters should follow the Government’s guidelines on reducing the risk of catching coronavirus.

I’M a continuous cruiser and I need to selfisolate. Do I still need to cruise?

WE (CRT) will apply the same approach as if you’re suffering from any short-term illness or accident. If you inform us we’ll be able to make any necessary adjustments while you self-isolate. In general, we will still expect boats to comply with the terms of their licence and to

In fact, a holiday on a boat may be the best way of avoiding infection.”

The idea that boat holidays could be the answer to self-isolation was echoed

by Drifters, a consortium of privately owned self-drive hire boat companies.

A spokesperson said: “There’s certainly a focus on staycations right now and we are picking up some extra bookings as overseas holidays are cancelled, but we are also losing bookings from overseas customers.

“Our holidays offer people the chance to escape into the countryside, with selfcatering facilities and home comforts on board.

“And we have some special offers running for the 2020 season and early booking discounts for holidays in 2021.”

Haley Hadley, marketing and sales director at ABC Leisure Group, said the company was seeing lots of bookings from UK customers and still some from abroad.

“We have changed some of our housekeeping procedures and use a product that has been proven to kill coronavirus,” she said.

“People are looking to get away from

the crowds, enjoy the fresh country air and moor up somewhere remotely. Also unlike holiday parks and hotels you aren’t sharing facilities with strangers.”

A CRT spokesperson said: “We are following government advice on coronavirus, working with employees, volunteers and partners to keep our waterways open and available for use.

Contingency plans will ensure we can continue to provide our day-to-day service for as long as possible.

“Other than for planned maintenance works, or recent flood damage, our canals, river navigations, towpaths and museums remain open for use, providing important green-blue routes and spaces in many towns and cities across England and Wales, connecting urban areas to the countryside.

“Indeed, while the advice from the Government is for people to carry on their lives largely as normal, our waterways remain a great option for those looking for time in the fresh air, or a route to work that’s away from the hustle and bustle of more crowded environments, or as places to visit while foreign holidays are restricted.”

POSTPONED: It is hoped to hold the Crick Boat Show later in the year.

PHOTO: JANET RICHARDSON

Government’s evolving public health advice regarding Covid-19 and large public gatherings, we have decided to postpone our four open day events.

“We hope to be able to reschedule the events later in the year. In the meantime, the canal network remains open for business as usual and offers a chance to take a relaxing holiday in the countryside.”

For more information visit www. anglowelsh.co.uk or call the bookings team on 0117 304 1122.

move every 14 days. You can contact the trust by phoning 03030 40 40 40 or contacting us online.

WHAT should I do if I am self-isolating and need help but don’t have any support networks?

PLEASE contact us using the details above.

We will work with partners to support boaters self-isolating as best we can without adding to the risk of transmission.

ARE you making any changes to support boaters in at-risk groups?

WE are proactively contacting boaters who we know to be in a highrisk group, including those with equality adjustments, those who have told us they are pregnant, and those who

have told us they are over 70. We are letting them know their options and that we’re here to assist if they have any questions or concerns.

ARE Wa t e r w a y s Chaplains still helping boaters in need?

THE work and ministry of Waterways Chaplains at this time is especially important, especially for those who are isolated and financially challenged by the crisis. Much of that support may be via phone or email to minimise physical contact.

For the full list go to canalrivertrust.org. uk and click on the ‘Our response to coronavirus’ heading on the home page.

Anglo Welsh is one of the largest canal boat hire operators in the UK offering more than 160 canal boats for hire from 11 bases across England and Wales.

Towpath Talk has also been notified of the following:

Puppet Theatre Barge, Little Venice, London: Closed until

further notice.

Southampton

Canal

April meeting cancelled.

Society:

Treats in store for our wordsearch winners WE HAD a great response to our wordsearch competition in the March issue.

Congratulations to the following readers whose correct entries were the first out of the hat: Mrs Nora Hewitt of Worksop wins the first prize of a Waterway Routes DVD courtesy of Waterway Routes and the book A Canal Boy’s Story from Sidaway Publishing.

Runner-up is Mr Alan Collinson of Manchester who receives a Laser Suction Syringe courtesy of Laser Tools and the book Narrow Boat Engine Manual from River Canal Rescue.

In third place is Mr Graham Pengelly of Milton Keynes who receives a Circular Canal Tours three-DVD set courtesy of Video Active and the book The Pull of the River from publishers Elliott & Thompson.

Thanks to everyone for entering, look out for the new competition in our May issue.

NEWS 3

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Stuart Sizer signing copies of his book Shipbuilders of Louth.

Anniversary year launches with book signing

by Janet Richardson

WHAT had been proposed to have been the first of many events this summer celebrating the 250th anniversary of the Louth Navigation took place before the start of coronavirus restrictions.

The town’s Mayor Coun Fran Treanor cut a celebration cake with Louth Navigation Trust chairman Roger Subden during the launch of local author Stuart Sizer’s new book Shipbuilders of Louth in the Navigation Warehouse on March 7.

Coun Treanor said: “Stuart is a well-known person in the town. I first encountered him about 33 years ago when he was headmaster of Kidgate School. Then I did one of his walks with him around the town – his knowledge is phenomenal. " Stuart signed copies of the book which we will review in our May edition.

The event had been billed as the first of the canal@250 events celebrating the

opening of the canal in 1770. They are due to culminate in a Heritage & Arts Festival at Louth Navigation warehouse and platform on Saturday and Sunday September 12-13.

Louth author Stuart Sizer, centre, with Mayor and Mayoress Fran and Jane Treanor.

Louth Mayor Coun Fran Treanor cutting the cake with LNT chairman Roger Subden. INSET: The cake to celebrate the canal’s 250th anniversary. PHOTOS: JANET RICHARDSON

The one that didn’t get away!

A THAMES boat-owner has been fined for not purchasing a river permit.

The owner, from Ashford in Middlesex, was convicted of failing to register the craft for use on the River Thames, in spite of warnings he could face legal action.

The Environment Agency discovered Leighton Lewis had no legal registration for the 18ft cruiser, The One That Got Away, during routine checks at Walton-on-Thames last summer.

Navigation officers attached a warning notice to the boat in July 2019, requiring Lewis to comply with the law within 14 days.

It is a criminal offence to keep, use or let for hire an unregistered vessel on a waterway.

Guildford Magistrates’ Court was told riverside inspections by officers revealed Lewis had skipped the annual £186.39 fee, determined by the length and width of the boat.

A month after the first visit, in August last year, the Environment Agency wrote to Lewis after officers found the boat still unregistered and moored in the same place. The letter warned Lewis to register the boat inside a week, or enforcement proceedings

would begin.

Despite this second warning, Lewis, of Doris Road, Ashford, still failed to log the vessel with the Environment Agency.

Similar to excise duty for road vehicles, boat registration fees allow the Environment Agency to manage and maintain more than 600 miles of inland waterways across England, keeping them open and safe for thousands of river-lovers.

Nick McKie-Smith,, waterways enforcementt manager for thee Environment Agency, said: “You can’t escape vehicle duty on the road. Why on the river?

Boat registration fees go towards the upkeep of our waterways, providing enjoyment for river-users and support for boating businesses.

“Lewis had a number of opportunities to register The One That Got Away, which, in the end, proved an inaccurate name because he didn’t.”

Tried in his absence

at Guildford Magistrates’ Court, Lewis was found guilty of breaching the Environment Agency (Inland Waterways) Order 2010. He was fined £400, and ordered to pay costs of £85 and his outstanding boat registration fee of £186.39 for January 1 to December 31, 2019.

The full channel being pumped out.

‘Monty’ group triumphs A SOGGY resumption of work by a Montgomery Canal Restoration work party ended in triumph when a ‘tremendous amount’ was achieved.

Wet weather had caused the February session at Crickheath, near Oswestry, to be postponed, and also provided a full channel of unwanted water for this work party.

However an extra session in March was devoted to an intensive pump-out and thousands of gallons of water were removed from the canal bed.

In far less than favourable conditions, a tremendous amount was then achieved over a weekend.

The main work was on the offside bank at Crickheath, where the final configuration of the bank will consist of layers of stone reinforced by geogrid.

The work involved laying the first 300mm depth of this construction in such a way that it would double up as a haul road. The stone was consolidated using a vibrating compactor attached to one of the diggers.

There is now a final Canal & River Trust design for the channel, with the majority of it constructed of composite earth/stone banks held together by the geogrid reinforcing material.

Work started on the Saturday shaping a small section where

the construction is specified as straightforward excavation and fill, a technique that was used on the previously restored section.

The excavator-mounted vibrating compactor unit was then tested to compress this loose material in readiness for future sessions, where sections of subsidence will have to be overfilled, and then consolidated, in line with the agreed CRT design solution.

Work was also done to reinforce part of the channel bed near to the Crickheath Winding-Hole clay dam.

This area was excavated, treated with cement grout and geogrid, and then covered with stone to enable machines to work in there.

A sump and three metres of land drain were installed at the Crickheath end, and this proved to work very effectively when a float pump was attached. This drain will be extended along the full length of the channel and will be of enormous benefit in future to improve working conditions.

The Shropshire Union Canal Society has been involved with progressively restoring the channel of the Montgomery Canal since 2008.

The current project is to extend the channel from Pryces Bridge to Crickheath Winding Hole.

Below: Cruiser The One That Got Away moored illegally on the River Thames. PHOTO: EA

A view of the haul road construction. PHOTOS SUPPLIED

4 NEWS

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Clean-up continues in wake of storms

A narrowboat at Hebden Bridge ended up wedged between a CRT working boat and a bank of the Rochdale Canal. The rescue team had to wait for levels to lower (in between the storms) and with pumps, manpower, tirfors, ropes and their experience, released the vessel. PHOTO: RCR

Wide beam on Rochdale canal. High water levels pushed the boat on to the towpath. The river rose so fast the boat floated on to the towpath and when levels receded, the boat was stranded. Rescue involved a three-man team, tirfors, rope, scaffold poles and a pump-out. PHOTO: RCR

By Sarah Spencer

MAJOR clean-up operations are continuing on the inland waterways following a trail of damage caused by storms.

Brendan, Ciara, Dennis and Jorge have all battered the UK since the start of the year, resulting in serious flooding, with February turning out to be the wettest since records began more than 150 years ago.

The ‘worst-hit’ canal near Dewsbury was expected to cost £2 million to repair and be closed for 12 months, although Canal & River Trust said that “given their age and the sheer volume of rain, the waterways stood up well”.

Julie Sharman, chief operating officer of the trust, said: “Our teams are conducting inspections across the canals and river navigations we look after to identify and respond to the impact of the storms.

“Our priority is to ensure our waterways are safe for people to use, including towpaths, bridges, locks and other structures, and we have put closures in place where necessary for public safety until we can make the

A houseboat at Pillings Lock on the River Soar. Moored next to a pontoon, the water levels rose so quickly the boat couldn’t adjust itself on its pilings in time. Water poured through the doors, causing it to list at a right angle and wedge itself on the pontoon. Despite attempts from a five-man team, the houseboat was too unstable to pump out. A telehandler and tractor was used to brace the houseboat so further pumping out could be done. PHOTO: BBC

necessary repairs.”

The CRT said that while there were too many separate instances of storm damage to list individually, examples included the Rochdale Canal and the Calder & Hebble Navigation.

Two hundred and fifty years old this year, the Calder & Hebble Navigation is home to the Figure of Three Locks, near Dewsbury. Water overtopping on the bend of the River Calder caused major damage to the lock and towpath.

While initial estimates indicated the Figure of Three Locks would be closed for 12 months and repairs cost in excess of £2 million, these figures will be refined in the coming weeks with the assistance of engineers and contractors.

It is the most damaged single structure on CRT’s entire 2000-mile network following the storms.

The high level of water, in some places unprecedented, also caused other problems. For example, some electrical and hydraulic bridge mechanisms became submerged as flood waters rose, while in other areas landslips occurred as sodden banks gave way, sending mud and trees into canals.

A CRT spokesperson said: “While most canalside banks maintained their integrity, despite the huge amount of rain, some of the trees on them couldn’t withstand the storm force winds and ended up blocking at least part of some navigations.”

CRT said most of these had been cleared, but some of the trickier-toremove ones were still being dealt with.

River Canal Rescue, a membership service providing breakdown and recovery assistance, said the storms had prompted 52 major call-outs this year up to March 3.

From their bases in Chester, London, Manchester, Nottingham, Oxford and Stafford, RCR’s team of four rescue specialists and 12 supporting engineers worked flat-out, attending an average of around six rescues a week; all complex cases involving hands-on crews and head office support staff who monitored water levels, managed logistics and communication, and liaised with third-parties/stakeholders

(often trying to pair up stricken boats with unaware owners).

An RCR spokesperson said: “Unprecedented rises in river/canal levels and sudden water surges across the country separated boats from their moorings, pushing them to new locations, often on towpaths and in fields, or wedging them against

pontoons and other craft. Boats unable to cope with the downpours were soon reported as submerged.”

A high number of calls were from boats on the rivers Aire, Cam, Soar, Trent, Witham and Yare, and from vessels on the Aire & Calder, Calder & Hebble, Huddersfield Broad and Rochdale canals.

Rescue co-ordinator Tushka Horton said: “From the calls coming in, you could quickly identify the path of every storm and the destruction each left in its wake.

“Not every case was a simple boat

raising; we sometimes had to use divers to help with the rescue or deploy a drone to find the vessel.

“Some could not be accessed with vehicles, others needed plant machinery to lift them which means liaison with third-parties such as the Canal & River Trust, landowners and the highways agency, and there were a few where we had to track down the owners and secure permission to attempt a rescue.”

Updates on the Calder & Hebble Navigation and other affected waterways can be viewed at www.canalrivertrust. org.uk/notices

‘Poor design’ highlighted in reservoir report AN independent review into the emergency at Toddbrook Reservoir that led to the evacuation of 1500 people has been welcomed by Canal & River Trust.

The Government-commissioned report by Professor David Balmforth examines the cause of the damage to the dam in Whaley Bridge last summer and makes recommendations for the improvement of reservoir safety across England and Wales.

In a summary of his findings, Prof Balmforth states: “The cause of failure at Toddbrook Reservoir on August 1, 2019 was the poor design of the spillway, exacerbated by intermittent maintenance over the years which would have caused the spillway to deteriorate.

“It has not been possible to say whether it was the poor design or the intermittent maintenance that was the primary cause of failure on the day. With consistent good quality maintenance over the years leading up to the event the spillway may not have failed.

“However, it would have been unlikely to survive the probable maximum flood which is many times greater than the flood in which it failed.”

CRT, the owner of Toddbrook Reservoir, said that both the Balmforth report and a separate independent report by expert reservoir engineer Dr Andrew Hughes, commissioned earlier by the trust, “had identified serious hidden design flaws, inherent in the concrete auxiliary spillway from the time of its installation in 1970, caused

its partial collapse on August 1, 2019 following several days of heavy rainfall”.

The trust continued that since the incident it had implemented measures to enhance reservoir inspection and maintenance and would now be fully reviewing both reports and acting on their findings to ensure the ongoing safe stewardship of the reservoirs in its care.

CRT pointed out that although happening after heavy rainfall, last summer’s events were unexpected.

“At no point in the Toddbrook spillway’s 50-year history were design flaws identified; successive inspections by independent engineers – from the Government-appointed All Reservoir Panel, in accordance with the Reservoirs Act – did not raise any questions about its design until the most recent independent inspection report.

“This was received by the trust only three months prior to the incident and did not identify an immediate threat to safety, or direct that any urgent precautionary measures be taken.”

The trust acknowledged that maintenance of the spillway in some periods of its 50-year life – including pre-2012 under Government-owned British Waterways – might have been more stringent, but pointed out that both Professor Balmforth and Dr Hughes concluded the inherent design flaws meant it was very likely the spillway would have failed in an extreme weather event regardless.

Richard Parry, chief executive of the CRT, said: “I welcome the

publication of the independent report into the cause of the spillway failure at Toddbrook reservoir last summer, and its recommendations to enhance safety across all reservoirs in England and Wales.

“Keeping people safe is always our top priority; we welcome any steps that reduce risks to local people and are fully committed to acting on all the lessons learnt from this incident and taking the actions arising from both these reports.”

He added the trust had begun preliminary work on repairing Toddbrook Reservoir prior to its full restoration, and remained fully committed to liaising closely with the local community as repair work progressed.

The Government-commissioned Independent Reservoir Review report is available at: https://assets.publishing. service.gov.uk/gover nment/ uploads/system/uploads/ attachment_data/file/872769/ toddbrook-reservoir-independentreview-reporta.pdf The Canal & River Trust’s separate independent report by expert reservoir engineer Dr Andrew Hughes is available at: https://canalrivertrust. org.uk/about-us/wherewe-work/north-west/ restoring-toddbrook-reservoir

NEWS 5

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Popular spot reopens after £1m repairs MACCLESFIELD Canal has reopened to boats following £1 million repairs.

The Canal & River Trust has completed work to refurbish an 80-metre section of the 200-year-old canal at Bollington, Cheshire, enabling people to continue

enjoying this popular spot.

More than 220 tonnes of concrete were used to reline the canal bed to prevent water leaking out.

Stonemasons used traditional methods to rebuild a 66-metre section

Work taking place. PHOTO: TIM BODDINGTON

Volunteers support Oxford wildlife VOLUNTEERS and local boaters have given a big boost to the Oxford Canal wildlife corridor.

They have planted bulbs, trees and shrubs in support of the city council’s drive to improve the waterways, boost biodiversity, support wildlife and fight climate change.

Five thousand snowdrop and bluebell bulbs were planted and wildflower seeds sown by the Canal & River Trust’s Towpath Taskforce volunteers and boaters living on the residential canal moorings in Summertown and Wolvercote.

Members of the Waterways Estate Residents’ Association in Summertown have also planted bulbs and sown wildflower seed.

City councillors joined volunteers from the Friends of the Trap Grounds nature reserve, located on the Oxford Canal near Frenchay Road in north Oxford. They planted 15 new trees, 350 hedging plants and shrubs.

The native trees and plants include hawthorn, blackthorn, dog rose, crab apple, field maple and rowan, which will provide berries and important habitats for wildlife.

Added to this, 750 waterside marginal plants will be planted in the spring and new bird-nesting boxes, insect-hotels, hedgehog and toad habitats and kingfisher-posts will be installed.

This latest initiative is part of the city council’s Oxford Waterways Project which was launched last year. It works with partners and local residents to improve the waterways and make the most of the benefits to those who live in and visit Oxford.

In the recommendations from the Oxford Citizens Assembly on Climate Change, enhanced biodiversity was seen as central to the overall ‘net zero’ vision of Oxford and it was recognised that tackling climate change and ecological breakdown together was important.

Assembly members found that

of canal wash wall, and the towpath was resurfaced to remove potholes and puddles and make it a safer space for walking and cycling.

Darren Spann, project manager at CRT, said: “The Macclesfield Canal is a hugely popular canal used by the community every day to go for a walk or cycle along, and is visited by thousands of boaters each year.

“This section of the canal is particularly appreciated due to its setting as it passes the impressive Clarence Mill.

“People are happier and healthier when they spend time by the water and the repairs to the canal bed and transformation of the towpath mean that people will be able to continue to enjoy this stunning canal.”

The 26-mile Macclesfield Canal was designed as a direct link between Manchester and the Midlands. It was one of the last narrow-gauge canals (locks 7ft wide) to be built by famous canal engineer Thomas Telford.

Navigation opened on March 13 and the towpath upgrade was expected to be completed by April 4.

protecting and enhancing biodiversity and “greening” the city was a key route to engagement with communities and individuals, and recognised that responsibility for biodiversity was spread across government at local and national levels and citizens.

Coun Louise Upton, cabinet member for Healthy Oxford and the Oxford Waterways Project, said: “Huge effort has gone into improving the canal area, with more planned over the coming year. Thanks to local residents, volunteers and to our partners the Canal & River Trust for all the ongoing support in making the Oxford Canal an amazing place for nature and for people of the city to enjoy.”

Coun Paul Harris (front left) and Coun Tom Landell-Mills (front centre), the councillors for St Margaret’s ward, together with Coun Louise Upton (front right), cabinet member for Healthy Oxford and the Waterways Project, joined by members of the Friends of Trap Grounds wildlife site. PHOTO SUPPLIED

More than 220 tonnes of concrete were used to reline the canal bed. PHOTO: CRT

£180k works improve Rochdale Canal ROCHDALE Canal has been given a £180,000 winter makeover.

Work at Lock 36, at the summit of the canal near Littleborough, will enable the Canal & River Trust to have greater control over the water flowing east into Yorkshire towards the terminus of the canal at Sowerby Bridge.

This will make it easier to respond to changing conditions and supply appropriate volumes to keep boats afloat and sustain wildlife.

Two centuries ago, when the Rochdale Canal was constructed as a major trans-Pennine freight route for boats, it enjoyed more sources of water supply than today.

Following the decline and abandonment of the canal in the latter part of last century, several traditional water feeds became unavailable, so when the canal was magnificently restored in 2002 it had to rely on fewer water supply options.

These new water controls, installed as part of this winter’s repairs and upgrades, will help to manage the existing water feeds from Chelburn Reservoir and various Pennine streams so water is conserved and supplied when it is needed most during the busy summer boating season.

In a separate project at Lock 49, near Rochdale town centre, tonnes of debris have been removed with the help of a spider crane, and an unusual rotted timber lock chamber floor has been replaced with new oak planks.

The lock gates are being repaired to cut down on leakage, which will again help to conserve water on this beautiful upland canal.

Mark Wigley, construction manager with the CRT, said: “Boating on the Rochdale Canal is growing in popularity every summer and we are keen to ensure the canal has enough water to keep it

operational throughout the year, no matter what the weather’s like. These improvements will help towards that goal.

“Although the canal was originally built to carry coal and other goods during the Industrial Revolution, it has now reinvented itself as a leisure destination and a haven for wildlife.”

For more information on the Canal & River Trust’s vital winter waterway repair programme or how to volunteer with the canal charity, visit www.canalrivertrust.org.uk

Before the winter works at Lock 49 on the Rochdale Canal, near Rochdale town centre, took place...

...and after. PHOTOS: CRT

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Survey seeks views on CRT

A THIRD of boat licenceholders have been invited to complete a short survey asking for views on the Canal & River Trust and the upkeep of its waterways.

The Annual Perceptions Survey is issued to licenceholders by email, text, or post where an email address for a boater is unavailable.

The survey is available for completion until April 5, with the results published in early summer.

The survey of randomly selected boaters is an annual snapshot of support for the trust and how it is managing the waterways.

It asks boaters how well they think the waterways are being maintained, whether they would recommend the waterways, and their overall satisfaction with the trust’s waterways.

Second survey

Once again in 2020, the Annual Perceptions Survey will be complemented by a monthly Waterway Experience Survey that gets under way in April and will run through to September.

This second survey is sent to a sample of boaters who are out on the waterways each month.

Volunteer lock keepers will distribute postcards

to hire boaters with details of how they can complete the survey.

Matthew Symonds, national boating manager at CRT, said: “Thank you to all the boaters who will be giving us feedback over the next few weeks and then as we progress throughout the summer.

“The Annual Perceptions Survey is a great opportunity for boaters to share their thoughts and feelings, so we can get a good sense of how we are doing as a charity, and where we can improve.

“The Monthly Experience Survey is more immediate and completed by those out cruising the waterways at that time.

Clearer picture

“That means that we gain a much clearer picture of the issues affecting boaters as they happen.

This enables us to be more responsive, and to target our maintenance and repair work on the highest priority areas throughout the year.

“We want to make your experience on the water a relaxing and enjoyable one and your feedback is invaluable. Please make your voice heard if you are invited to take part.”

£20k donation boosts winding hole project

AMBITIOUS plans to restore the Dudley No. 2 Canal have taken a significant step forward thanks to a £20,000 donation.

The money came from Unite Students, a leading UK supplier of purpose-built student accommodation, and will enable the construction of a winding hole at Selly Oak in Birmingham to begin.

Working closely with the University of Birmingham and the Canal & River Trust since the start of last year, Unite has organised volunteer groups to help clean up the canal and towpath, to create a safer and more pleasant environment for its students and the local community.

Unite Students’ new building Battery Park opened in September and overlooks the winding hole. The building houses a total of 418 students and is already full.

Planning approval needed for the work on the winding hole to start was given in November.

New owner M & G Real Estate has given permission for the work to start and this should happen later in the year.

Victoria Simmons, area manager for Birmingham at Unite Students, said: “Our top priority is keeping our students safe and providing a brilliant

experience; we want to extend this to the local community in the areas surrounding our student home.

“Working closely with the University of Birmingham and local charities, we are working to make a positive impact that benefits a wide range of people.”

Dr Andrew Hardie, chair of the Lapal Canal Trust, said: “We are very grateful for the generous donation of £20,000 from Unite Students, which will enable us to start constructing the winding hole, before we move on to the next phase of the canal restoration through to Selly Oak Park.”

In the early 1800s, Selly Oak industry was developed around the canal junction and the community aims to protect and restore this important heritage link with the past.

The winding hole will allow

boats to turn, enter and exit the soon-to-be-restored canal.

The Lapal Canal Trust was established in 1990 by a group

of environmental and canal enthusiasts with the objective of restoring the Dudley No. 2 Canal from Selly Oak to Halesowen.

The Unite Students Battery Park building with the location for the winding hole opposite. PHOTO SUPPLIED

Scouts celebrate Wheelyboat launch A NEW wheelchair-accessible powerboat has been launched on the River Thames.

Thames Ditton-based Warspite Sea Scouts launched their new Coulam Wheelyboat V17, enabling disabled scouts and members of the community to access and enjoy a myriad of waterborne activities for the first time.

The Wheelyboat Trust, a national charity based in the neighbouring county of West Sussex, delivered the powerboat to the Warspite Sea Scouts’ activities centre in Surrey.

Scouts young and old gathered on the banks of the River Thames to watch their new vessel, named Don Everitt after the late leadinstructor and well-known member of Warspite Sea Scouts, who passed away in 2012.

Don’s widow and family officially named the new boat with a bottle of bubbly, and afterwards short trips up the river were offered.

Richard Hunt, Group Scout Leader at Warspite Sea Scouts, said: “Our new Coulam Wheelyboat V17 will ensure that those in the Scouts whose mobility is limited can participate in a variety of waterbased activities going forward, rather than just spectate from the riverbank.

“Our new Wheelyboat will challenge our conventional thinking as to what’s now possible for those with limited mobility, which is something we’ve been wanting for a while, so this is a really exciting time for us. Don had a real love for getting children out on the water, so naming our Wheelyboat after him is a very fitting tribute.”

He added: “This project has been led by three Sea Scout groups in the area: the 1st Cuddington (Warspite), 4th Thames Ditton (Ajax) and 1st Surbiton (Sealion). With their shared heritage and joint love for activities on the water, all three groups have been working with

Coulam Wheelyboat V17 and Sea Scouts.

The Wheelyboat Trust to raise the funds for this vessel. We’re all looking forward to seeing where the Don Everitt takes us”.

Richard continued: “We’ve had some fantastic successes on the river, but there is so much more that we want to do. So far we’ve not been able to offer those with less mobility the chance to get afloat, so it’s fantastic that we now have a solution to this, and we can’t wait to share our new V17 with everyone.”

Andy Beadsley, director of The Wheelyboat Trust, said: “Having recently launched our 200th Wheelyboat, we’re delighted that another accessible vessel will soon to be out on UK waters

and will be enjoyed by everyone.

“With their new Wheelyboat, disabled Scouts from all three groups – Warspite, Ajax and Sealion – will be able to train and mentor their junior comrades, demonstrating that a disability need not be a barrier to success and achievement.

“There are also wider plans for the Warspite Sea Scouts to work with local SEN schools, charities and youth groups in the area.

“Providing access, independence and opportunity is what The Wheelyboat Trust is all about, so I’ve no doubt the V17 will be a fantastic asset to the Warspite Sea Scouts and their members.”

The Wheelyboat Trust and the Warspite Sea Scouts are very grateful to the following for their generous support in funding the project: The Borrows Charitable Trust, Chalk Cliff Trust, Dairy Crest Group plc, The Shanly Foundation, The Sterry Family Foundation, The Small Boat Club, Surrey Army Cadet Force Association, Thames Scout Cruising Club, Thames Water Utilities Ltd – Community Investment, Wheelwrights Charity, The Whirlwind Charitable Trust and many individual donors.

To find out more about The Wheelyboat Trust, visit www. wheelyboats.org

Andy Beadsley handing over the keys to the new Coulam Wheelyboat V17. PHOTO: MALCOLM HUNT

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Barging sand from Hull to Leeds

By Jonathan Mosse

TRAVELLING the waterways of the North East, it was not unusual to encounter barges deeply loaded with sand on the Rivers Trent and Ouse and along the Aire & Calder between Goole and Wakefield. However, all that came to an abrupt halt more than four years ago.

Beavering away in the background, over the past two or more years, John Branford – of Branford Barge Owners – and Andy Collins (AC Marine Aggregates) have doggedly sought to re-establish aggregate carrying along Yorkshire’s waterways.

Their perseverance, in the face of several false starts, has finally been rewarded and the last piece of the jigsaw slotted into place with the signing of a contract with Canal & River Trust to use a wharf at Knostrop, on the outskirts of Leeds.

The new flow, which will initially be in the order of 50,000 tons per year (each 550-ton load taking 20-plus lorries off the road) will be from Albert Dock in Hull to Knostrop, loading sea-dredged sand originating off the coast of East Anglia.

There is the potential to considerably increase this tonnage while other flows are also in the offing.

Branford Barge Owners’ Fossdale H entering Bulholme Lock.

The new grant-aided wharf at Stourton (just downstream from Knostrop) and due for completion in about a year’s time, will also encourage development of fresh water-borne freight into Leeds; something the city council has been very supportive of for many years.

John Branford, at 75, is probably the most experienced barge operator still trading on the North East waterways. He

Branford Barge Owners’ Humber Renown at Castleford Junction.

PHOTOS: JONATHAN MOSSE

started boating at 15 when he left school and he soon had his own command. At 22 he bought his own boat, Adamant, which was crewed by his wife Pat until they started a family; their three children giving their names to the dumb barges that he subsequently purchased as the fleet expanded!

Throughout the ensuing years he has regularly been consulted on the design and construction of wharves along the Trent as quarries were worked out and new ones came on stream.

He is ably supported by his son Jonathan, who is currently captain of a supply vessel involved with the construction of off-shore wind farms.

With the final negotiations in place for this new flow to commence mid-April, the future of this 200-year-old family barge firm looks considerably more secure, and it is hoped that sooner rather than later, Jonathan will be able to take over the reins allowing his father to finally retire!

More illegal boaters fined SIX boaters have been forced to forfeit more than £4800 between them for not registering their vessels as required by the law.

This follows the successful prosecution of nine boaters in January and brings the amount the Environment Agency has recovered in avoided registration charges this financial year to more than £102,000.

Boat owners are legally required to register any vessel they keep, use, or let for hire on Environment Agency waterways, and to clearly display a valid registration plate.

The Environment Agency is warning that boaters who fail to do so could face thousands of pounds in penalties, get a criminal record, and even have their boats confiscated.

In January, nine boaters had to pay £9100 for not registering their boats.

So far this financial year, enforcement action against those avoiding registration charges has led to the recovery of £102,456.

These funds – as well as the properly paid registration charges – will be reinvested back into waterways to protect, maintain and improve them for everyone.

Nathan Arnold, waterways team leader at the Environment Agency, said: “Our waterways are part of our nation’s rich heritage and beauty, and they contribute to our environment, our health and wellbeing, and our economy.

“But boaters who break the law by not registering their boats are putting the future of these historic and precious waterways at risk – so we won’t hesitate to take action against them.”

As well as not contributing their fair share towards the upkeep of waterways, unregistered boats can be unsafe, hazardous to other river users and a pollution risk to the local environment and wildlife.

The Environment Agency looks after 353 miles of navigable waterways in the Anglian network, which includes the Ancholme, Black Sluice, Glen, Welland, Nene, Great Ouse and Stour, as well as associated locks, moorings and other facilities.

If you suspect a boat is illegal, contact the EA on 03708 506 506 or email waterways. enforcementanglian@environmentagency.gov.uk

RCR on-site monthly courses end RIVER Canal Rescue recently ceased its monthly boat engine & maintenance and electrics courses.

The company is currently restructuring its business, moving its Key Diesels engine rebuilding division from Burton-on-Trent to its headquarters in Stafford. Managing director, Stephanie Horton, explained: “Although our courses are well attended, the space and resources used to run them can

be put to better use, and with so many other businesses now offering this provision, we feel at the moment, we need to concentrate on more profitable elements of the business.

“We will still be running our bespoke courses for commercial business partners and for customers/clubs that still want us to provide training on site, but will no longer be offering courses at RCR HQ on a monthly basis.”

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Maidenhead weir works completed

The waterway project has helped restore Maidenhead town centre to its former riverside glory.

PHOTO: GREENFORD LTD

MAJOR works to the Green Lane weir in Maidenhead, Berkshire, have been completed.

The success of the project was celebrated at an official launch event held in March.

Civil engineering firm Greenford Ltd was responsible for constructing a fish and eel pass and the creation of the weir, after being appointed as principal contractor by the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead (RBWM).

The weir raised water levels, allowing water to flow over the weir crest before cascading down.

The fish and eel passes allow wildlife to pass freely, whether upstream or downstream, at their appropriate developmental stages and times of the year.

Boat rollers have been installed to facilitate small boat navigation through the York Stream, which passes through the centre of Maidenhead.

Visitors can now look forward to an improved experience of the town centre, whether for boating or walking.

Robert Hutton, director at Greenford Ltd, said: “We have a proven track record of building quality and sustainable waterways across the United Kingdom. Adding this prestigious project to our repertoire is one that we are incredibly proud of.

“We believe that it will make a significant difference to the Maidenhead community.”

He added: “We are extremely pleased that Greenford Ltd has been recognised as a trusted contractor. With our strong focus on sustainable solutions, using reliable equipment and being mindful of our environmental footprint, we deliver highquality, safe and innovative construction and design services.”

The waterway project was initiated in 2006 by Maidenhead Waterways Group, a charity run by local people. Planning consent was granted in 2012 and the project adopted by RBWM in 2014. The waterway is being built in stages in conjunction with adjoining town centre regeneration projects.

Greenford Ltd operates across the United Kingdom from its offices in Oxfordshire and the West Midlands.

Bikes boost to canal boats MOTORCYCLES were welcome visitors to the Grand Union Canal when riders gave a £1000 boost to a waterways charity.

Since 2000 Berkhamsted Motorcycle Club has every year chosen a good cause and run a motorcycle trial in its aid – and this time it was the turn of Waterways Experiences.

Waterways Experiences is an organisation situated on the same site as Berkhamsted MC – Nash Mills Recreation Centre – and both have an interest in developing healthy and lively opportunities for local youth.

Waterways Experiences operates

three large canal boats from a beautifully landscaped boatyard on the Grand Union Canal just to the south of Hemel Hempstead in Hertfordshire.

Its mission is to promote well-being by providing affordable canal boat trips, particularly for the disadvantaged.

As well as day trips all year round, it provides very special holidays for teenagers with learning difficulties or other disadvantages, operating without any paid employees.

As volunteers, what makes them tick is the satisfaction of being able to share their passion for the waterways and canal boating with people normally excluded from this pastime.

To date, with the hard work of the committee and club riders alike, Berkhamsted MC has raised just over £23,000 for various charities.

Berkhamsted MC was formed in 1908 and is now one of the oldest clubs in the country.

Berkhamsted MC riders, club president Ted North, left, and Richard Tregoning of Waterways Experiences celebrate the £1000 donation. PHOTO SUPPLIED

Lichfield and Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust volunteers, left to right, Matthew, Tom, Matt and Harry, who are learning mechanical engineering skills in the trust’s workshop. PHOTO: STEVE WEBSTER

Funding plea for trust’s apprentices LICHFIELD’S canal trust has appealed for funding to help its mechanical engineering academy apprentices.

Four young people are learning engineering skills while helping to keep Lichfield and Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust’s workshop facility running.

Matthew and Tom are Duke of Edinburgh Award participants; Matt has finished at university after completing a mechanical engineering course; and Harry, who has been a volunteer with the trust for five years, is now at university where he is on the Formula Student race team as a welder, using skills he learned in the workshop.

The trust, which is run entirely by volunteers, has been offered some trade-in machines from Wacker

Neuson, that will provide great experience for the apprentices in getting the machines up and running, serviced and then used on the canal restoration.

But the trust’s workshop manager Steve Webster said funding was needed to keep the workshop going and to keep teaching vital skills to these youngsters.

Steve said: “If you could spare some money to help towards consumables and the vital spares we need, to keep these machines running and keep the learning going for the younger generation, we’d be really grateful.”

Donations can be made on the trust’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook. com/LichfieldandHatherton CanalRestorationTrust/ posts/2745849618868782

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Characters of the Cut Alice Griffin meets illustrator Katie Miller whose fun designs brighten up her day.

AS SPRING approaches I don’t think there could be anything to cheer me more – aside from the daffodils – than the sight of 32ft narrowboat Poppy (complete with octopus fender!) and her equally happiness-inducing owners, Katie Miller and two cats, Nibbler and Rufus.

Thirty-two-year-old Katie freelances under the name Katie Ruby Illustration & Design and as well as working for regular clients, she also produces her own range of greeting cards, badges and fridge magnets that showcase unique characters and fun wordplay. “I like my work to be colourful and fun because it makes me smile, and I figure that if it makes me smile then it will make others smile too,” Katie tells me.

Most of Katie’s work is inspired by animals, especially her cats and The Punderful World of Cats is a personal project particularly close to her heart: “In a previous job my bosses were very much dog people so I began drawing cat puns for fun in the evenings.” Now, the range she has is fantastic and will most definitely brighten your day with bold colours and funky type, inspired, Katie tells me, by her grandad. “He was a signwriter and I think this is where I get my love of lettering from.”

Since she could hold a crayon Katie has enjoyed drawing so after leaving school she completed an Art Foundation n Course followed by a degree in Graphic Design & Illustration, then started her career as a graphic designer. This career included a number of years in the exciting role of greetings card and gift product designer before in 2016 she took the plunge and went full-time freelance: “I had always wanted to work freelance, but I knew it was important to build up experience in a studio before going it alone.”

As most of Katie’s work iss digital she doesn’t need much to operate: “One end of the boat is my office where I have a bureau containing pens and sketchbooks and I keep my stock in various boxes on shelves or in lockers.” Katie also has a decent solar power set-up with an MPPT charge controller and has invested in 12 volt chargers for her computer, so there is rarely need for her inverter.

“In the summer I have no issues with power supply, though in the winter I sometimes have to run my engine to charge my laptop.” The only problem Katie has faced is her 4G signal: “There are certain mooring spots where I can’t get a decent enough signal to send clients their work, but I love these places so I won’t dismiss them and instead I’ll find a pub or coffee shop nearby with free Wi-Fi,” she tells me.

Katie’s curiosity for canal life stems from growing up in the village of Kings Langley on the Grand Union. “In 2010 I finally went on a week-long narrowboating holiday and it was after this that I was sure I wanted to live afloat.”

She bought her first narrowboat in 2011 and lived on a permanent mooring, but since taking ownership of Poppy in October 2017 she has been continuously cruising. “I much prefer

Katie Miller on narrowboat Poppy, complete with octopus fender. continuously cruising, and being freelance makes that possible.”

Like most people on the cut, Katie cites nature as the number one attraction, “I’ve had endless encounters with kingfishers, watching them for hours and I love spring when all the ducklings and cygnets are out. I also love the culture and people on the cut. I have made pe so o many friends over the years an nd most are just so laid back an nd super interesting people.”

Katie markets her products o social media and her Etsy on store has grown in popularity over the years. “I receive o orders from all over the world o and it’s great fun knowing a that a badge I’ve designed is t now being worn in America n or Australia.” This year o though, Katie has got herself t a Roving Traders licence and will be taking part in a couple w of floating markets as well as setting up ‘pop up’ shops as and when she can.

Available for all kinds of commissions, including illustration for print and web, logo design, branding, printed marketing materials, greetings card design and more, with her eye-catching, fun and a-little-bit-cheeky style, I think Katie will be freelancing and adventuring aboard Poppy for a long time to come!

Alice Griffin is a writer, nature-lover, slow-living advocate and intermittent boat-dweller currently on a longdistance walk to Portugal. www.alicegriffin.co.uk

Katie will be at Berkhamsted Floating Market on May 8-10 and Boxmoor Floating Market on May 23-25.

Website: www.katierubyillustration.com Instagram: @katierubyillustration Facebook: thepunderfulworldofcats

Katie’s designs are colourful and fun. Nature is the number one attraction

PHOTOS SUPPLIED

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Good turnout for West Midlands meeting

By Phil Pickin

Regeneration work under way at Finsley Gate.

PHOTO: COLIN WAREING OF COLIN AND CAROLE’S CREATIONS

£2.2m Mile Wharf work under way WORK is progressing on the regeneration of the Finsley Gate wharf area in Burnley, East Lancashire.

Known locally as Mile Wharf, it is undergoing a £2.2 million restoration scheme.

The old roof has been removed from what was the main workshop of the former British Waterways maintenance yard ready for replacing with a new one.

The plans for the site will transform the Grade II Listed buildings – three warehouses, a canal cottage, outbuilding and blacksmith forge – and the outdoor space into a destination offering boat trips and boat hire, a cafe and visitor accommodation, as well as a

function room and learning area for local community and school groups.

Pictured is the entrance to the site, which is known locally as Mile Wharf because of its position at the end of the Straight Mile embankment that carries the canal across Burnley over the River Calder and a main road that passes Turf Moor, the home of Burnley Football Club.

The gates to the site are still carrying the BWB initials, the British Waterways Board that was created by the Transport Act of 1962. The board was generally referred to as British Waterways and lasted until the formation of the Canal & River Trust in 2012.

VENTURING out on a cold, dark winter’s night in February isn’t everyone’s idea of fun. Still, a significant number of people did just that to attend the Canal & River Trust West Midlands region’s annual public meeting and showcase.

The event was held in the impressive surroundings of the County Buildings in Stafford town centre.

After an opportunity to view a large number of displays showcasing the work of various volunteer groups, the meeting got under way with a welcome and keynote speech by John Henderson, chief executive of Staffordshire County Council.

During his speech, he highlighted the importance of the canals to the region. The theme of public health also featured more than once during his speech in which the Caldon Canal was cited as a good example.

He went on to welcome CRT’s involvement in the development of the Rugeley power station site which sits on the banks of the Trent. The power station closed three years ago, but the French owners are creating a 100% renewable energy mixed-use site in the area.

Roger Savage, chairman of the

Canal & River Trust chief executive Richard Parry addresses the meeting in Stafford’s County Buildings. PHOTO: PHIL PICKIN Staffordshire Waterways Group, provided an overview of the work of the various groups that make up the county-wide organisation.

He explained that the group’s area encompasses 152 miles of canal and he took the opportunity to talk about the work they have done and continue to carry out.

He also mentioned the group’s involvement in the promotion of tourism in the area and the participation of Julie Arnold in the tourism initiative.

Julie Sharman, chief operating officer of CRT, presented regional director Adnan Saif’s report due to Adnan being unable to attend the event at the last moment. She too highlighted the achievements in the previous 12 months and outlined the plans for the coming year.

Many of these centred around the Commonwealth Games and the continued emphasis on community engagement.

Encouraging more people to be involved in both using the waterways and volunteering on the waterways is high on the agenda for the next year.

It was good to hear that the environment hasn’t been overlooked with the environmental volunteers still required to help maintain the areas around canal towpaths.

Julie also mentioned a new initiative that, it is hoped, will see police special constables and cadets being specifically tasked to the towpaths.

With the pressures on police forces continuing, it will be interesting to see if these new recruits will be able to keep the towpaths their primary focus.

CRT chief executive Richard Parry took questions and a few statements from the audience which included a thank you to CRT for its involvement in Let’s

Fish, the campaign to encourage more people, including many young people, to try fishing on their local waterway.

It seems that this campaign has been particularly successful with figures of 30,000 people trying coarse fishing being mentioned.

The removal of single-use plastics as part of the WASAP project was also mentioned after a successful launch in Walsall; it has also been launched in Coventry.

The meeting concluded with an opportunity for attendees to chat with the significant number of CRT staff who attended.

There were no significant policy changes or announcements, but it would seem that the trust will continue to build on its links with local councils and groups. The shift towards making the trust, and its waterways, a resource for all and to broaden their appeal, remains a priority.

Wheelyboat innovation wins award A CHARITY that provides wheelchair-accessible boats to groups around the UK has won a national award.

The Wheelyboat Trust, based in Sussex, which provides Wheelyboats to sailing clubs, Sailability groups, fisheries, schools and outdoor activity centres, won the #MoreThanSailing accolade at the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) Sailability Awards.

The #MoreThanSailing award recognises a new and innovative project or activity that has given those with physical and/or mental disabilities the opportunity to become more active on the water.

This year The Wheelyboat Trust was chosen for its ongoing work enabling people young and old who have a wide range of sensory, learning and mobility impairments, the opportunity to enjoy water-based activities independently via Wheelyboats.

Andy Beadsley, director of The Wheelyboat Trust, said: “It’s fantastic to be recognised and awarded for our hard work, especially the vital role we play helping groups and organisations acquire Wheelyboats.

“The innovation of the trust and our boatbuilding partner Jim Coulam in designing, building, funding and supplying more than 200 Wheelyboats to date is something I’m particularly proud of, as we’ve given thousands of anglers, sailors and school children alike the means to enjoy a range of watersports independently.”

Sailability, a national programme offered by the RYA, is dedicated to enabling anyone with a disability to take part in sailing. In addition to this, the RYA’s latest scheme Powerability aims to encourage even more people with a disability on to the water specifically via motor

and powerboats, such as Wheelyboats. Those with access to a Wheelyboat can attain their RYA Powerability qualification (among others), increasing their skills and allowing those who’ve qualified to mentor others.

Andy continued: “Last year The Wheelyboat Trust celebrated its 35th anniversary, and although there are more than 200 Wheelyboats on UK waters, our work is far from complete.”

The RYA Sailability Awards were attended by 184 delegates from 60 different Sailability sites, with the winners announced at Wyboston Lakes, Bedfordshire.

To find out more about The Wheelyboat Trust, visit www.wheelyboats.org

Andy Beadsley, director of The Wheelyboat Trust, wins the RYA #MoreThanSailing award. PHOTO: RYA

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Coal boats have been carrying smokeless fuel for some time.

Waterways support climate change effort

THE role of the waterways in battling climate change has been championed following a Government announcement of £20 million for local ‘smart energy’ projects.

A £90 million investment package for projects focused on reducing emissions from heavy industry and homes has been unveiled.

While the bulk of this (£70 million) will go to developing hydrogen projects, £20 million has been earmarked for local energy projects, including some using the Midlands’ canal network.

Analysis of the Canal & River Trust’s network shows that, beyond the Government’s announced trial, the canal network across England and Wales could provide 640 megawatts of latent thermal energy to support the heating and cooling needs of around 350,000 homes.

Richard Parry, chief executive of CRT, said: “I welcome the Government announcement and recognition of the role that the nation’s canals and rivers have in battling climate change.

“There is a huge opportunity to build upon the trial and the existing sites that already use our waterways to heat and cool their buildings – from residential heating and cooling projects to industrial cooling of commercial premises and heat networks.”

He continued: “The Midlands’ canals are perfectly placed, both practically and symbolically, to lead the green energy charge.

It’s fitting that these arteries of the Industrial Revolution are being repurposed to bring clean, green energy to what was the beating heart of Britain’s production line.

“As technological advances are made the canals can once again be at the forefront of progress that transforms and improves the national quality of life.”

Water from our waterways may be used for heating and cooling new developments, or for electricity generation through hydro-electric power schemes.

These sources should be included as options within studies of renewable energy potential, according to CRT. In a separate announcement, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs confirmed a ban on house coal and wet wood will be rolled out in England from next year.

The Government said wood-burning stoves and coal fires are the largest source of fine particulate matter (PM2.5), small particles of air pollution that find their way into the body’s lungs and blood.

The changes will mean: Sales of bagged traditional house coal will be phased out by February 2021 and the sale of loose house coal direct to customers will end by 2023.

Sales of wet wood (also known as green or unseasoned wood) in small units will be phased out from February 2021. Wet wood in volumes greater than two cubic metres will also have to be sold with advice on how to dry it before burning.

Makers of solid fuels will also need to show the products have a very low sulphur content and only emit a small amount of smoke.

Wood- or coal-burning stoves are not being banned. Officials said the phase-out will give the public and suppliers time to use up stocks and move to cleaner alternatives, such as dry wood and manufactured solid fuels.

The National Association of Boat Owners (NABO) said: “NABO supports the Government’s recent announcement to phase out the sale of non-smokeless coal and unseasoned wood for domestic use.

“Indeed, NABO raised this idea some years ago during a previous consultation on air pollution by the Mayor of London.

“It should be noted that coal boats have been selling smokeless fuels to boaters for some time.”

It continued: “NABO recently updated its environmental policy which states, among other things, that NABO believes that, as a group, boaters are among the most environmentally aware in society.

“We actively encourage our members to consider the environment in all aspects of boating activity, in particular regular engine maintenance, non-polluting waste disposal, use of smokeless fuel, alternative energy sources etc.

“NABO supports the use of diesel engines to provide power for navigation and electricity and hot water for domestic use, until low-cost practical alternatives are readily available and can be phased in. NABO will encourage navigation authorities to install waterside power supplies for battery charging, where this is appropriate, to reduce the use of diesel engines at moorings.”

Using river water to produce hydroelectric power. PHOTOS: JANET RICHARDSON

12 NEWS

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Big store delivery nightmare for canalside shop owner

By Les Heath

LIVEABOARD boaters, who tend not to travel very far, are posing a problem for a canalside farm shop which normally relies on waterborne trade for its survival.

A number of these boaters are arranging for shopping from major supermarkets to be delivered to them at the farm shop beside the Ashby Canal.

Spinney Bank Farm Shop, near Stoke Golding, has always been popular with boaters – and owners Kevin and Elaine

Thorpe even linked their business to the towpath with a special walkway for which they pay an annual sum to the Canal & River Trust.

“But then certain boaters began ordering from supermarkets and the vans have been parking on our premises to drop off deliveries,” said Kevin.

“It started about 12 months ago and it’s just getting worse. Boaters obviously have to give a delivery address and they just give ours. I didn’t provide a walkway to the towpath for them.”

He added: “The vans block the drive to

A narrowboat pulls in to give the farm shop some custom. PHOTOS: LES HEATH

our car park and shop while they unload in front of our business.”

Kevin explained that deliveries are made by Tesco, Morrisons and Asda and even though he has contacted the supermarkets concerned none has been able to give him any reassurances.

“There was a woman standing on our land the other day and I asked her if I could help. She just said she was waiting for a shopping delivery,” said Kevin.

He explained: “About 80% of our summer trade comes from boaters but this latest trend certainly isn’t good for our business.

“There are canal bridges in both directions from our farm shop where deliveries could be made for these boaters but they have been giving our address instead.”

The business also has a canalside campsite for six caravans and 12 tents.

“The campers and our nearby permanent moorers all use the shop,” said Kevin.

“But it’s the liveaboards on the move who don’t seem to go very far who cause the problems.”

He explained that it was quite frustrating to see supermarket vans blocking the drive to the farm shop car park, creating a problem for customers arriving by road.

“I don’t know what to do about it,” said Kevin, adding that confronting the van drivers and approaching the supermarkets have both drawn a blank.

He is simply hoping that boaters arranging supermarket deliveries will choose the next bridges along in either direction before the matter gets out of hand.

Kevin Thorpe on the towpath by the approach to the farm shop.

Red diesel announcement

CHANCELLOR Rishi Sunak revealed plans to review the current use of red diesel in the spring Budget.

The Government is set to consult with red diesel users to determine whether continued access to the fuel is justifiable.

The consultation will be conducted with a view to removing the entitlement to red diesel use, except for agricultural, rail and non-commercial heating purposes,

by April 2022.

Commercial boats on open waters, including ferries and fishing boats, will remain entitled to the Marine Voyages Relief so will not face a charge increase if the entitlement to use red diesel is revoked.

This decision has been taken by the Chancellor with the intention to

incentivise businesses to improve energy efficiency and to investigate greener alternatives where possible.

The Royal Yachting Association (RYA) has responded that while red diesel remains the primary and often only fuel available at the waterside, it should continue to be available to recreational boaters in the UK for the purpose of propelling a private recreational vessel.

HMRC have confirmed there will be a consultation in the spring and the RYA will be working with other significant stakeholders to make a strong representation on behalf of recreational boaters.

Although details of the consultation have yet to be set out, the RYA said it remained fully engaged with the debate.

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14 IWA ROUND-UP

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New chairman in Parliament THE All Party Parliamentary Group for the Waterways has appointed MP Michael Fabricant as its new chairman.

At its inaugural meeting for the new Parliament held in Westminster, the group also agreed key topics that would be addressed over the coming months.

These included the importance of protecting waterways heritage, how waterway restoration can act as a catalyst for much wider regeneration, and encouraging access to the waterways for sport and leisure use.

Michael Fabricant is well-known for his support of the waterways in his Lichfield constituency, particularly the work of the Lichfield & Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust of which he is a patron. He is a previous recipient of the IWA’s Parliamentarian of the Year Award.

Among the vice-chairmen and officers of the group are a number of newly elected MPs as well as some long-standing waterway supporters, including: Lord German OBE, Simon Baynes MP (South Clwyd), John Cryer MP (Leyton), Bill Esterson MP (Sefton Central), Mark Garnier MP (Wyre Forest), Jason McCartney MP (Colne Valley) and Craig Williams MP (Montgomeryshire).

Paul Rodgers, IWA national chairman, said “IWA wholeheartedly welcomes Michael’s appointment as chair of the APPGW. He fully understands the importance of the UK’s inland waterways and the ongoing need for adequate funding of the publicly owned waterways, and we look forward to working with him over the coming months and years.”

Michael said: “It is not just boaters who make use of our canals and inland waterways, it is also those

a variety of tasks to maintain the navigable section of the Sleaford Navigation. Contact: Mel Sowerby on 01522 856810 or workparty@ sleafordnavigation.co.uk

MIDLANDS SUNDAY April 5 and TUESDAY April 21 IWA Northampton Branch: Work

parties on the Northampton Arm. 10am-2pm. Work usually includes a variety of tasks such as painting, vegetation clearance and litter picking. Contact: Geoff Wood geoff. wood@waterways.org.uk

NORTH SATURDAY April 11 IWA Chester & Merseyside Branch: Work party alongside

the Shropshire Union Canal.

10am to 4pm. Work will include

habitats and heritage, as well as reducing access to the waterways and their benefits for local people.

Some 13 miles of the Grand Union Canal and the Slough Arm would have been affected by the permanent loss of 900 acres of land in the southern part of the Colne Valley Regional Park, and a number of rivers would have been diverted under the new runway, risking spillages and pollution and threatening the ecology of the Thames.

Frankton opening extended

Boat leaving Frankton Locks. PHOTO: ALAN STOPHER

New chairman of the All Party Parliamentary Group for the Waterways Michael Fabricant MP, left, with IWA national chairman Paul Rodgers.

PHOTO: IWA

who enjoy exercising along towpaths, those who enjoy the tranquillity of our waterways whether they be in the countryside or city, and it is the wildlife that our waterways so encourage.

“I am looking forward to chairing this influential All Party Group and highlighting both in Parliament and elsewhere the importance of waterways to the economy and environment of our nation.”

Anyone intending to attend one of these events for the first time should contact the organisers beforehand and wear suitable clothing and footwear. If staying all day take a packed lunch unless other arrangements are indicated.

SUNDAY April 12 IWA Lincolnshire Branch supporting Sleaford Navigation Trust: Volunteers will carry out

Waterways celebrate Heathrow ruling

THE Government’s plans for the expansion of Heathrow have been ruled unlawful by the Court of Appeal.

The decision was made on the grounds that it doesn’t fit with the UK’s climate policy – but it’s also a win for waterways in the area that would have been severely impacted.

IWA West London Branch campaigned against the third runway, because it would cause significant harm to the natural environment of local canals and rivers, impacting

IWA BRANCH DIARY FOR APRIL 2020

EAST

AROUND THE BRANCHES WITH IWA’S GEMMA BOLTON

painting and vegetation clearance.

Contact: Jason Watts jason.watts@ canalrivertrust.org.uk SATURDAY April 11 IWA Manchester Branch: Work party

in Greater Manchester. 10am to 4pm. Tasks will include vegetation clearance, litter picking, painting and pulling rubbish out of the canal.

Contact: barry_m@manchesteriwa.co.uk or 07875 999825.

THURSDAY April 9 IWA North Staffordshire & South Cheshire Branch and Caldon & Uttoxeter Canals Trust: Work

party on the Uttoxeter Canal at Crumpwood. 10am to 3pm.

Contact: Steve Wood steve.wood@ waterways.org.uk or 07976 805858.

THURSDAY April 16 IWA North Staffordshire & South Cheshire Branch and Trent & Mersey Canal Society: Work party on the

Cheshire Locks, Trent & Mersey Canal. 10am to 3pm. Contact: John Lawson John.lawson@waterways. org.uk or 07940 878923.

SOUTH

FOLLOWING a 10-month campaign by IWA Shrewsbury District & North Wales Branch, Canal & River Trust has agreed to extend the opening times of Frankton Locks for the summer of 2020 starting on March 30.

The extension, from the current 12pm-2pm daily opening to 9am-1pm, should improve boater access to the Montgomery Canal.

Particularly in view of the extensive restoration work on the Montgomery Canal to extend the limit of navigation for powered craft beyond Gronwen Wharf, IWA is keen to help more boats use the rural waterway. The current Montgomery Canal Conservation Strategy allows for 2500 boat visitors a year on to the canal; however, it is thought that the actual number of visitors is only between 1,100 and 1,200 per annum.

Michael Haig, chairman of IWA

Shrewsbury District & North Wales Branch, said: “Canal & River Trust’s agreement to double the opening hours at Frankton Locks should make things considerably easier for boaters wishing to explore the tranquillity of the Montgomery Canal, and perhaps more boaters will be encouraged to visit the IWA Silver Propeller Challenge destination at Gronwen Wharf.

“Additional advantages of the revised opening times are that boaters will not have to moor above or below the locks waiting for a noon opening, and the additional hours should spread water demand over a longer period, reducing the problems of low water at the top lock.”

For the foreseeable future, the requirement for both advance bookings and for a minimum stay of one night with a maximum of 14 nights will remain in force.

TUESDAY April 14 and TUESDAY April 21 IWA Oxfordshire Branch supporting Banbury Canal Partnership: Work

parties on the Oxford Canal near Banbury. 9am to 1pm.

Contact Colin Garnham-Edge: bcpontheoxford@gmail.com

WEST EVERY Saturday IWA West Country Branch (Taunton): Work parties in the

Taunton area. 10am to 1.30pm.

Please let us know if you are intending to join us by 6pm the day before. Contact: Mike Slade mike.slade@waterways.org.uk on 07977 263840.

EVERY Tuesday and Saturday IWA West Country Branch (Bridgwater): Work parties in the

Bridgwater area. 10am to 1.30pm.

Please let us know if you intend to join us by 6pm the day before.

Contact: Mike Slade mike.slade@ waterways.org.uk on 07977 263840.

For further information on any of these events, please contact Gemma Bolton on 01494 783453 or email gemma.bolton@waterways.org.uk Details can also be found on IWA’s website at www.waterways.org.uk

IWA West Country Branch volunteers moved a historic chain. PHOTO: IWA

West Country chain gang VOLUNTEERS from IWA West Country Branch recently moved a historic chain together with an anchor from the base of the heritage crane at Bridgwater Docks, as part of the preparatory work for painting the crane later this year.

The chain is believed to be that used by the scraper dredger (known in her later days as Bertha), which was used in the docks from 1841 to the late-1960s to stir up the silt in the inner basin. Canal water was then used to flush the silt

through to the outer (or tidal) basin prior to it being sluiced into the River Parrett.

Bertha spent some of her retirement at the Exeter Maritime Museum and then at the Eyemouth Maritime Museum and is now in the South West, although regrettably not available for public viewing.

Find out more about the ways in which you can volunteer with IWA at waterways.org.uk/volunteer

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