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Issue 154, August 2018
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P68 Poirot star David Suchet dramatically declares the Braunston Historic Boat Rally open as Raymond passes under the Thomas Telford cast iron bridge watched by the crowd. Rally report on page 4. PHOTO: WATERWAY IMAGES
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IF THE current dry spell continues, part of the Leeds & Liverpool Canal will be closed between Wigan Flight (from below lock 85) and Gargrave (from below lock 30) from Monday, July 30. In a water resource position statement issued on July 13, the Canal & River Trust announced the extension of restrictions
Green Flag awards
affecting canals in the north west where the prolonged period of dry weather has left low reservoir holdings. Jon Horsfall, head of customer service support at the Canal & River Trust, said: “We’ve taken the decision to temporarily close part of the canal to boats very reluctantly and can assure
SIX more stretches of Canal & River Trust waterways have been awarded Green Flag status by Keep Britain Tidy, taking the total to 248.5 miles. These now include all of the Pocklington and Ripon canals as well as parts of the Lancaster, Chesterfield, Montgomery, Bridgewater & Taunton canals. The award recognises spaces that boast the highest possible environmental standards, are beautifully maintained and play an important role in the local community.
everyone on that stretch of the canal that we’ll reopen for navigation as soon as we possibly can.” But he stressed that despite the prolonged dry weather and current heatwave, the vast majority of the CRT network is available for boaters and holiday-makers to enjoy as normal.
Festival campaign
THE Inland Waterways Association will use its Festival of Water in St Neots over the August bank holiday weekend to highlight its view that the Environment Agency, which manages the Anglian navigations, needs more funding. It will also promote the potential offered by proposed waterways between Bedford and Milton Keynes linking the Grand Union Canal to the river Great Ouse and the Fens Waterways Link connecting the River Witham from Boston to the River Nene in Peterborough.
Continued on page 2
“In particular, the reservoirs which feed the summit of the Leeds & Liverpool Canal have seen very little rainfall over the past few months and so we’ve been monitoring the situation closely and working with boaters and boating businesses to make best use of the available water,” Jon explained.
Severn wildlife
WORK has begun on a £19.7 million wildlife project on the River Severn thanks largely to funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) and the European Union LIFE programme. Unlocking the Severn for People and Wildlife is being run by the Canal & River Trust, Severn Rivers Trust, Environment Agency and Natural England. It will reopen 158 miles of the River Severn to fish, by creating routes around physical barriers preventing migration to critical spawning grounds.
BWML Mooring offers Pages 32 & 35 bwml.co.uk 0115 9077 433
2 NEWS/COMMENT
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WELCOME AS I write in mid-July, the hot dry weather shows no sign of abating which, although good news for holidaymakers, is starting to make an impact with restrictions already in force on the Leeds & Liverpool Canal and the prospect of temporary closure between Wigan (Lock 85) and Gargrave (Lock 30) from July 30. On a sunnier note, it has been great for all the event organisers, our pages full of blue-sky pictures from festivals at Lymm and Chesterfield and the Braunston Historic Boat Rally, although Middlewich didn’t fare so well with dull weather and the breach reducing the number of visiting boats. Some boaters will already have started making their journeys towards the Inland Waterways Association’s Festival of Water at St Neots on the River Great Ouse over the August bank holiday weekend. According to the IWA, 100 boats are expected at the festival, which will promote the potential of new waterways between Bedford and Milton Keynes linking the Grand Union Canal to the river Great Ouse through a series of waterway parks and the Fens Waterways Link connecting the River Witham from Boston to the River Nene in Peterborough. I had a brief trip on the River Great Ouse during a recent visit to see the work under way at Hartford Marina near Huntingdon, see page 17. I also recently caught up with boaters from the 4 C’s – the Cotswolds Canal Cruising Club – as they prepared to cross the Wash en route to the Bedford River Festival, see page 8. Two new community boats also feature this month; I attended the launch of Leicester charity mosaic: shaping disability services’ wide beam Sunbeam II at Syston, see page 10 and Phil Pickin reviews the Lyneal Trust’s Shropshire Maid on page 68. Thanks to everyone who nominated their ‘top team’ for our volunteering award – the panel of judges is currently sifting through the nominations and its shortlisted finalists will be announced in our next edition. We also welcome a newcomer to the Towpath Talk team, assistant editor Sarah Spencer who will be helping us to bring you the latest news and views from waterway users. I don’t like to keep banging on about the Canal & River Trust’s costly marketing campaign, but one of my colleagues has just told me that on her daily commute she heard its advert on Lincs FM with a water lapping, birds singing soundtrack – but no mention of boats or boating holidays. Need I say more…
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Comment and recollections from Harry Arnold
Crown Jewels by canal to Canada? AS THIS story has been aired recently in another waterway publication as ‘a myth’ following a recounting of my involvement in it at a meeting of fellow waterway journalists, I offer it to Towpath Talk readers to judge. Some years ago, in the early 1970s, I was telephoned by a good friend who in effect was my successor in one of my previous jobs as manager of Shropshire Union Cruises at Norbury Junction. He said that he had a new private mooring customer who had known Norbury previously during the Second World War and had an interesting story to recount which, as a journalist, I might be interested in. I rang the gentleman concerned – who turned out to be a director of a well-known Staffordshire company – and he told me the following. He said that, with the army rank of Captain during the war, he had been in charge of a party of soldiers who were the escort for three narrowboats – a motor
and butty plus a single motor boat – transporting Britain’s Crown Jewels via the Shropshire Union Canal onward to Liverpool to be shipped to Canada. They moored at Norbury Junction overnight. He said that it had been decided that this was the least obvious method of transport to keep the move secret. Following the recent exodus of European royal families, with some of their countries’ wealth, as the Germans occupied their lands, the inference was obvious. If the Crown Jewels were leaving the country and the Germans landed here, our Royal Family might also be heading across the Atlantic? Recalling that I had in the past heard a story circulating about this among the working boatmen, and by coincidence a rumour spoken of it in Liverpool when I was based there in the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve, it was one too good to ignore. I had a contact in the Buckingham Palace press office and
We also heard the story of the Crown Jewels travelling by canal from working boatmen such as Charlie Atkins and Albert Hollinshead, seen here gossiping while moored overnight at Norbury Junction. PHOTOS: WATERWAY IMAGES
another in an appropriate government ministry. Both listened to my story, promised to come back to me and when they did both flatly denied it. But the next development was the
Liverpool was one of the main wartime departure points for Canada. Although I doubt if they would have travelled by this Canadian Pacific liner service still operating in 1968.
• Continued from page 1
Heatwave forces temporary canal closures
Local rain gauges show some parts of the region received as little as 30% of the long-term average rainfall in May and June – with no rainfall received at all in the first week of July – placing extra pressure on reservoir holdings over the past few months. Although reservoirs were full in April, a number of them in the north west, particularly those feeding the summit of the Leeds & Liverpool Canal, are relatively small and rely on regular inflows from rainwater during the spring and summer to add more water to them as usage increases. The below average rainfall in recent months has meant the reservoirs haven’t been able to recharge at a sufficient rate to provide for the summer’s boating. Restricted opening hours were announced in June at the locks at Barrowford, Greenberfield, Bank Newton and Gargrave, but these have been limited further to between 10am and 4pm. At Bingley Five Rise and Three Rise, passage down the locks is restricted to between 8am and 12pm and up the locks to between 1pm and 5pm. Restrictions are also in place on parts of the Rochdale Canal and Huddersfield Narrow Canal. CRT expects the closure and restrictions to last throughout August and potentially beyond if there is no significant, sustained rainfall. Jon added: “People can keep abreast of the situation by looking at the Reservoir Watch section of our website and, as we do every summer, boaters across the country are asked to play their part by helping to make best possible use of water. Every time we use a lock 200,000 litres of water are used and so we all have a role to play.”
interesting one. Within a few days both myself and my contact had mysterious telephone calls (no source given but obviously from someone in the security services) seriously warning us off from pursuing the story any further and having contact with each other. We did as our anonymous callers instructed and I thought no more about it until a recent TV programme. No doubt many of you will have seen this recent prime-time presentation – starring HM The Queen herself – where it was said that the Crown Jewels never left the country and showed the trapdoor into a dark cellar at Windsor Castle where they were apparently hidden. Apart from the fact that it was too small an area, the Germans would have dismantled Windsor Castle stone by stone, just to get at them. Despite denials, one or two rumours of them ‘going to Canada’ did surface in the national press after the programme. I leave you to make your own judgement from my experience.
£3m pledged towards building new Leeds wharf WEST Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA) has agreed to provide £3.17 million towards the building of a new wharf as part of the Port of Leeds project. The news has been welcomed by the Commercial Boat Operators Association (CBOA), the national trade organisation for barge and other commercial craft operators on the UK’s inland waterways. Chairman David Lowe said: “This shows the commitment of the local authorities to seize the opportunity of doing something to take traffic off the roads – to the great benefit of their local people.” For some time, the Canal & River Trust, strongly encouraged by CBOA, has been reviewing building a new wharf at Stourton on the Aire & Calder Navigation on the outskirts of Leeds – with room for either one or two barges to be tied alongside at the wharf (depending upon demand). The site is well located in logistics terms, being close to the motorway and also rail connections. Steve Higham of the trust said: “The Canal & River Trust is very grateful to WYCA for their encouragement and support. This provides the opportunity for a new dawn for the freight use of
Barges of this size will bring cargoes from the Humber to the new wharf. PHOTO: CBOA Yorkshire’s waterways. This fits in very well with the trust’s work with Transport for the North in identifying ways for moving freight in the north.” The new wharf would be able to handle sea-dredged aggregates brought by barge to Leeds from the Humber. Steel and timber products are also possibilities, along with other goods imported via the Humber ports. With modest improvements
to the navigation, barges would be able to bring containers to Stourton, thus relieving road traffic congestion on the M62 and reducing pollution. Existing barges can carry up to 550 tonnes each, the equivalent of 27 lorries carrying 20 tonnes. With the navigational improvements, it would be possible to bring across from Europe EuroClass 11 barges which can take 650 tonnes.
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Another step on the march to Swindon THE formal opening of a new 1.2km stretch of the Wilts & Berks Canal was a great day for its supporters. Performing the ceremony at Studley Grange between Royal Wootton Bassett and Swindon, were trust chairman Roderick Bluh, chairman of Viridor Credits Board Peter Renshaw and fellow trustee David Robertson, together with Biffa representatives Nick Emery, national estates manage, and Dean Willett. Joining in the celebrations were Royal Wootton Bassett Mayor Mike Farrow, Wiltshire Council chairman Coun Alison Bucknall, deputy leader of the Vale of White Horse District Council
Coun Ben Mabbet and chairman of the Wiltshire, Swindon & Oxfordshire Canal Partnership Fleur de rhe Philipe. Also present were contractors, project managers, members of the public who had contributed to the project, WBCT members and volunteers and many local people who have all helped to bring this dream to reality. Roderick Bluh said: “This new section of the Wilts & Berks Canal which we have completed in 2018 is an excellent example of the co-operation between the organisations who worked together to create this amazing and diverse canal and towpath environment, giving benefit to all who use it.
The newly restored stretch of the Wilts & Berks Canal at Studley Grange.
Wilts & Berks Trust chairman Roderick Bluh cuts the ribbon with chairman of Viridor Credits Board Peter Renshaw and fellow trustee David Robertson watched by Biffa representatives Dean Willett and national estates manager Nick Emery. PHOTOS SUPPLIED “Biffa have been supporters from the very beginning of this project and, as our landlords, continue to support WBCT in many different ways.” He continued: “It is another step completed on our march towards Swindon bringing the dream of a canal restored to connect the southern canal network with the Midlands, nearer to reality. “Looking ahead, restoring the remaining 60-plus miles of canal is no small ambition. It is full of planning, engineering, water supply, financial, legal, land ownership and maintenance and manpower issues. We know it is never easy nor is it immediate. The clear message today is that it can be done.”
The trust’s flagship project at Studley Grange, costing in excess of £0.80 million, involved the excavation of a new canal section between Chaddington Lane and Studley Grange and the creation of a new wildlife trail along the towpath. Local students and youth organisations were involved in the design of many of the information boards located along the length of the towpath, as part of an education and engagement programme with communities. Proposals are in development to connect the completed canal from Royal Wootton Bassett at Templars Firs to this section and onwards to Swindon. www.wbct.org.uk
All the Monty needs is money – and engineering By Harry Arnold
“COULD the Montgomery Canal be restored all the way to Newtown to celebrate the 750th anniversary of the granting of the town’s Royal Charter in 2029?” was the intriguing question posed at the 2018 Montgomery Waterway Restoration Trust (MWRT) Forum. Following questions from the audience in Welshpool regarding the reopening of the canal south from Berriew to Newtown, partnership chairman John Dodwell said restoration to the latter was desirable and feasible, but whether it was achievable would depend on raising the necessary funding. MWRT chairman Michael Limbrey said that if engineering works planned for the rebuilding at Schoolhouse Bridge, near Oswestry, the last road obstruction on the English length, were successful, the same system could be used between Berriew and Newtown. He added there were real opportunities and it was only money and engineering that were needed to restore the canal. He gave an update presentation detailing recent works on the 35-mile waterway, half of which has already been restored. Supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund, a substantial new nature reserve had been established at Aston, near Queen’s Head, Oswestry, and choked lengths of the canal in Mid
Wales had been dredged. He also emphasised the support from Newtown and Welshpool town councils for the restoration. Outlining the progress on a £300,000 appeal for the replacement of Schoolhouse Bridge, he said the MWRT was “thrilled to bits” that £210,000 had been raised so far and he thanked everyone who had donated money. A collection at the forum raised a further £274.05, which will multiply to nearly £1400 when pledges by supporters to match the total and Gift Aid are added. Russell George, Montgomeryshire AM and vice president of MWRT, said he believed that the canal restoration would be a project that could qualify for support from a potential Mid Wales Growth Deal because of its impact on tourism. He praised the different organisations working together to support the restoration, saying that real momentum had been achieved. Assembly Members often spoke positively in the Senedd about the canal. Shropshire Wildlife Trust vice president Brian Hogbin spoke about the importance of the canal’s rare flora and fauna, which had made it a European Special Area of Conservation and a Site of Special Scientific Interest. He described it as “a green corridor of biodiversity”, arguing that the variety of wildlife was what made the canal special for everyone. New reserves were to be built alongside the canal in Mid
IN BRIEF
Stalybridge carnival
A CARNIVAL with a canal at its heart almost sank after the death of its organiser Nigel Hobson, writes Geoff Wood. But a new committee was formed to stage the popular carnival at Stalybridge in North Cheshire. The event centres around the Huddersfield Narrow Canal, which runs straight through the middle of the town where a major engineering project ‘re-invented’ the canal as its centrepiece. At the start of a two-day carnival weekend, narrowboats and traders arrived and free boat trips were provided during the event by the Huddersfield Canal Society.
Crick winners
CONGRATULATIONS to the following winners of our recent competitions: Liam Smith of Bedworth won the private static hire of the Daniel Adamson and the following people all won pairs of adult passes to the Crick Boat Show: Emily Spruce of London; Hayley Roberts of Rugby; David Sawbridge of Kibworth; Tom Jones of Guildford; Robert Welfare of Sutton; Dennis Howarth of Cheadle; Tracey Derrick of Corby; David Collinson of Daventry; Scott Boote of London and David Page of Desford. Thanks to everyone for entering.
Seal count
THERE has been a rise in the number of grey seals and harbour seals recorded in the Thames Estuary, writes Elizabeth Rogers. The count for 2017, continuing an annual survey by the Zoological Society of London begun in 1913, showed rises of almost 15% and 20% respectively. In 2018 the count is concentrating specifically on seal pups, the first to be so directed.
Discover Woolsthorpe
Could the Montgomery Canal be restored from its southern navigable limit here at Berriew through to Newtown by 2019? PHOTO: WATERWAY IMAGES
Wales to compensate for the loss of habitat when the canal was restored, he said. He stressed the need for the right balance between the needs of boats and the canal wildlife. Guest speaker and tourism lecturer Belinda Davenport spoke about the potential for businesses associated with the waterway network. She advised businesses to work hard and together on their marketing, to give people a reason to visit and return. Belinda runs the multi-award winning Alice in Wonderland-themed Davenports Tea Rooms and Shop, based by the north end of the busy Trent & Mersey Canal, and also operates a boat offering vintage-style afternoon teas, see report on page 67.
THE Canal & River Trust has produced a new two-page information leaflet Discover Woolsthorpe Locks. It is a colourful cartoon-style presentation with information about the locks on the Grantham Canal. Five things to do include taking a trip on GCS boat The Three Shires and visiting nearby Belvoir Castle. Available from CRT’s Newark office or view online at www. canalrivertrust.org.uk
Safety record
THE Wirral Community Narrow Boat Trust is one of three charities to recently receive £3000 from the Essar Stanlow oil refinery at Ellesmere Port, writes Geoff Wood. An ‘outstanding’ safety record at the refinery triggered donations from the company’s Let’s Give programme, which links safety milestones with charitable giving.
4 NEWS
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Stars abound at Braunston POIROT star David Suchet and his actress wife Sheila were among the celebrity guests who took part in the opening of this year’s Braunston Historic Narrowboat Rally. They did so by respectively steering a pair of former working boats, the Nutfield and the Raymond, from the Grand Union Canal into the marina. Passing under the historic Thomas Telford cast iron bridge, David Suchet dramatically announced to the large number of canal enthusiasts gathered on the bankside: “I declare the 2018 Braunston Historic Narrowboat Rally open!” It commemorated the 60th anniversary of the Raymond’s launch in June 1958, at what was then Samuel Barlow’s Yard and is now Braunston Marina. David was joined on the Raymond by Aubrey Berriman – now 94 and still in good health – who was the shipwright of the Raymond.
Also taking part in the opening were Timothy West and Prunella Scales, who steered respectively the 1936 pair of working narrowboats the Nuneaton and Brighton, owned and operated by the Narrow Boat Trust. Other guests included Canal & River Trust chief executive Richard Parry, retired chairman Tony Hales and Inland Waterways Association chairman Ivor Caplan. A total of 83 historic narrowboats attended the 16th rally – these events attracting the largest gathering of these boats anywhere on the inland waterways. Tim Coghlan of Braunston Marina said: “For me what was most pleasing was the number of boats that came which had never been before and the comments from so many owners that it is events like the Braunston Historic Narrowboat Rally that inspire them to restore and maintain their boats, which are such an important living and moving part of our canal heritage.
Actor David S uchet formally opening the 2 0 18 Braunston Historic Narrowboat R ally on the 60 - year- old Raymond, accompanied by former working boatwoman Alice Lapworth and the Raymond shipwright Aubrey Berriman ( 94 ) . PHOTO: WATERWAY IMAGES
Prunella S cales at the helm of the Brighton – entering Braunston M arina after the official opening. PHOTO: WATERWAY IMAGES
“The rally has come a long way since the first one in 2003, when 29 boats attended – which seemed a lot at the time.” The winning historic narrowboat for the Nurser Award for the Best in Show was Ryan Dimmock’s beautifully turned out coal boat Southern Cross. He received £250 vouchers from Braunston-based Midland Chandlers. It was the second time in five years that he has won it. The event attracted about 7000 visitors, some travelling from as far afield as Canada and Australia to attend, providing an important visitor-spend for the local economy.
David and S heila S uchet visit the Towpath Talk stand where they are pictured with the team, from left, Janet R ichardson, Jane and S ue K eily with, right, Tim Coghlan. PHOTO: WATERWAY IMAGES
David S uchet with boatwoman Alice Lapworth on board Raymond. PHOTO: JANET RICHARDSON
Shoreside attractions included a trade marquee and also a number of other exhibitors and canal societies. Entertainment included the canaltravelling Alarum Theatre, with their play Idle Women of the Wartime Waterways. Other live performances were Canals of Old England by Phil Underwood and
Nancy Potter, and Professor Diamond’s Punch and Judy. There were also several groups of morris dancers and the famous beer tent – the Dry Dock – with music provided by a number of groups. All profits, which exceeded £6000, were donated as usual to canal and local causes.
Timothy West steering the 193 6 motor Nuneaton and towing the butty Brighton in the S unday parade of boats. PHOTO: TIM COGHLAN
Narrowboat Raymond’ s 60 th birthday party – ‘ Poirot’ cuts the cake. Pictured from left are Tim Coghlan, David S uchet, S heila S uchet and Aubrey Berriman ( 94) shipwright to the Raymond when it was build at what is today Braunston M arina in 1958. PHOTO: WATERWAY IMAGES
Boats galore on the G rand U nion Canal in the traditional parade of boats. PHOTO: TIM COGHLAN
NEWS 5
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R yan Dimmock receiving the 2 0 18 Nurser Award and £ 2 50 of M idland Chandlers vouchers for his coal boat Southern Cross. The award was presented by Tim Coghlan, owner of Braunston M arina. PHOTO: PAUL BENNETT M embers of the Friends of the National Waterways M useum, G loucester, Boaters Craft G roup at their stand. Pat Harper, Jill R uiz, G ill Bryan, V ivian Newland and, seated, Cynthia Collins show their skills. SEE BOOK REVIEW, P69. PHOTO: JANET RICHARDSON
Braunston Pickle providing musical accompaniment on board. PHOTO: JANET RICHARDSON
Caps and sunspecs were the order of the day for Tony Hales and R ichard Parry in the opening parade. PHOTO: JANET RICHARDSON
S tuart K ettell, pictured right, with Tim Coghlan, Prunella S cales and Timothy West, has raised over £ 50 ,0 0 0 so far over 11 years of fundraising for M acmillan Cancer S upport. His madcap challenges include pushing a Brussels sprout up S nowdon with his nose in 2 0 14 . Follow his progress at www.willthemadfoolmakeit.co.uk PHOTO: JANET RICHARDSON
Actor and canal enthusiast G riff R hys Jones spoke enthusiastically at the event and is pictured with M ark Harding of maj or sponsors Enovert.
Griff inspires audience at lock opening THE restored and newly named Roger Brown Lock at Stratford St Mary in Suffolk was opened at a celebration event featuring a top TV personality. This year is the 50th birthday of the River Stour Trust and a significant crowd of supporters, well-wishers and local dignitaries gathered for the occasion. The restoration of the lock was the culmination of 12 years’ work and this is the fourth lock on the Stour to be restored. The opening was performed by Mark Harding of major sponsors Enovert. Actor and comedian Griff Rhys Jones, RST vice-president, was in attendance and spoke enthusiastically about the project and of the desire to restore navigation to many of our rivers. Griff demonstrated a considerable knowledge of the subject and delivered his thoughts in an inspiring and amusing manner. The IWA had supplied top-up funding to 10% of the £80,000
project cost from the Tony Harrison legacy which it administers. Tony’s widow Mary unveiled a wooden plaque at the side of the lock acknowledging this. The restoration of Stratford St Mary lock opens up a further three miles of navigation on the Stour. This follows on from the restoration of locks at Flatford, Dedham and Great Cornard. The Stour flows through ‘Constable country’, indeed the navigable river at Flatford Mill features in his most famous painting.
G riff enj oyed a trip through the lock.
S heila S uchet steers Nutfield into the marina. PHOTO: JANET RICHARDSON
Following the S unday morning outdoor service, members of the congregation blew bubbles to celebrate the launch of S tuart K ettell’ s charity bathtub jou rney from John O ’ G roats to Land’ s End in S eptember to raise money for Ma cmillan Cancer S upport. The bubbles were blown to the accompaniment “I ’ m forever blowing bubbles” by Daventry Brass. PHOTO: JANET RICHARDSON
● The Braunston Historic Narrowboat R ally is sponsored by Braunston M arina and Towpath Talk, and is supported by the Canal & R iver Trust. Braunston M arina will be hosting the event again next year on the same last weekend in June ( 2 9- 3 0 ) .
The first boats through the restored R oger Brown Lock at the opening event.
6 NEWS
IN BRIEF New boss at British Marine PHOTO: BRITISH BRITISH MARINE Marine has a new chief executive Lesley Robinson, who took up the position on July 16. A qualified accountant, she has both UK and international experience in numerous public, non-marine and leisure marine sectors. Her early career has included executive positions in numerous companies as well as various non-exec director roles and she has extensive business and commercial acumen.
Middlewich masterplan PLANS for a marina and 137 new homes in Middlewich, Cheshire, are in the balance as borough chiefs continue to work on regeneration ideas, writes Geoff Wood. A decision on Intertechnic’s planning application for the canal marina, which also includes shops and cafes on its site in Brooks Lane, was due to be made by Cheshire East Council in March. But the developer is still waiting for an answer from the local authority, which is stepping up its efforts to produce a masterplan for the Brooks Lane area over the summer.
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Funeral boat misery for riverside residents By Les Heath
ASIAN funeral services carried out by boat at Barrow-on-Soar have increased to such an extent that local residents now find the ceremonial activities “absolutely unbearable”. What began in 2004 as two or three a week had risen to 12 a week by 2010 and is now up to 25-plus a week – with eight or nine on Saturdays and Sundays. A spokesman for Barrowon-Soar River Residents’ Association, formed to deal with what they feel is having a severe adverse effect on their quality of life, said: “On a Saturday and Sunday they can be going backwards and forwards past our homes 16 or 18 times in a day – just feet from where we are sitting in our gardens.”
Some of the items washed up in just one of the gardens.
The top of a casket. He added that a simple solution would be to hold the ceremonies elsewhere on the river, away from a residential area. The funeral service has been provided by Barrow Boating for many years, using an appropriately decorated 12-seater boat for the 45-minute trip to an Environment Agencydesignated area upstream towards Mountsorrel. Many narrowboaters have experienced passing the funeral boat along this section. “When we bought these houses we did not want to spend our retirement watching others taking their final journey,” said the spokesman, who added that materials cast from the boat were an additional problem. “We have had plastic caskets, wooden caskets, flowers, saris, coconuts, written messages, ashes and even jewellery all washed ashore at the bottom of our gardens and we have dozens of photographs to prove it,” said the spokesman. He added: “One day I was fishing and they emptied the ashes from the boat at the bottom of my garden. I got covered.”
The boat used for funerals passing a resident’s garden in Barrow. PHOTOS SUPPLIED Dog owners have had to take their pets to the vets as a result of the animals being covered in ashes. A marked decrease in wildlife along this section of the river has also been noted by the campaigners.
Support from MP
The Riverside Residents’ Association, which has 72 members and the support of the parish council, has enlisted the help of Loughborough MP Nicky Morgan, who has been “extremely supportive”. But because of the complicated nature of the situation little has been done towards solving the problem. This is because bodies involved, in varying degrees, include Charnwood Borough Council, the Canal and River Trust and the Environment Agency. There is also the
possibility of the Maritime & Coastguard Agency being involved. “It’s just been passed from pillar to post among these agencies and nothing has been done. It’s now become absolutely unbearable,” said the spokesman. The residents, whose gardens extend down to the river, have been monitoring the escalating situation and keeping records for the last three years. “Everyone we speak to is appalled and wouldn’t like to live by it like we do,” said the spokesman. “On Father’s Day last year there were 14 in one day. How can we enjoy retirement with our families visiting when there are funerals going past all the time.” Coconuts have always had a ceremonial significance in Asian funerals and are usually placed in
running water. Many can be seen on rivers and canals throughout the country but particularly near major cities. But at Barrow, only a few miles from Leicester with its large Asian population, coconuts are not the only problem. Many different materials associated with the deceased are being cast into the water to float downstream or end up ashore at the bottom of the residents’ gardens. Many of the items are not biodegradable. But, hopefully, the end may be in sight. Plans are being made for a meeting this summer between MP Nicky Morgan and representatives of all the agencies involved, to try and find a solution to a problem which residents claim has brought misery and distress for many years to Barrow people living alongside the River Soar.
The tollbooth at the Manchester Ship Canal’s Warburton Bridge crossing has been burned down. Arson is suspected. PHOTO: WATERWAY IMAGES
Tollbooth fire at Manchester Ship Canal bridge By Harry Arnold
ECHOES of the 18th century Rebecca Riots – when the public burned hated toll-gates in South Wales – have been stirred in Cheshire, with a recent fire which destroyed the tollbooth at Warburton Bridge. The high-level span crosses the Manchester Ship Canal (MSC) east of Warrington. Under a statutory regulation of 1863 the canal’s owners Peel Ports are allowed to charge a toll of 12p to cross the bridge, linking the villages of Rixton in
Warrington with Warburton in Greater Manchester. A number of roads converge by the bridge and with the massive increase in car traffic in the area there has been increasing congestion and lengthy queues. There has been increasing anger and frustration among users in the district, resulting in the formation of a Warburton Toll Bridge Action Group. Its chairman Andy Higgins claimed the bridge was not properly maintained. Peel Ports plans to undertake maintenance on the bridge, raise
the weight limit from three to 7.5 tonnes and install an automated toll system. Peel was planning to replace the tollbooth when fire broke out in the early hours of May 10. Locals claimed that it coincided with the worst night’s traffic, with congestion still bad at 9pm. Arson is suspected, with the suspicion that somebody’s patience snapped. One local said: “Life has been so much better without it. It was hell but it’s brilliant now.” While another added: “It’s like we’re free”.
RYA SPOTLIGHT 7
www.towpathtalk.co.uk The R oyal Y achting Association ( R Y A) is the national body for all forms of boating, including dinghy and yacht racing, motor and sail cruising, R IBs and sports boats, powerboat racing, windsurfing, inland cruising and narrowboats and personal watercraft.
Man overboard! Be ready to recover IN AN ideal world, safety would be second nature to those choosing a holiday on a canal or riverboat. Better still, holidaymakers would have sufficient tuition or experience to prepare for their trip. But even armed with skills and knowledge, accidents can still happen. In holiday mode it’s easy for your attention to wane. Someone may simply slip over on a wet deck or people having fun may unintentionally cause an accident.
So what do you do if someone falls overboard? “The first thing to do is not to panic,” says RYA inland waterways trainer
First put your engine out of gear to stop the propeller. IMAGES SUPPLIED
Tim Allen from Watercraft Training in Buckinghamshire. “General common sense and being prepared is the key to everyone staying safe on board. So don’t jump in and don’t let others jump in either.” He explains that water can be cold even in summer and you will only be adding to the problem rather than solving it. First put your engine out of gear to stop the propeller. Don’t reverse back or the person could be dragged into the propeller. Throw a line or a lifebelt to the person overboard. This ensures that the person won’t be sucked into the prop and they have something to hang on to in order to keep afloat. Keep sight of the person in the water at all times.
Throw a line or a lifebelt to the person overboard.
In shallow canals and slow rivers they may be able to stand up and walk out. Steer the boat slowly to the bank and help them out of the water and back on to the boat. On wider or deeper waterways, throw a lifebuoy to the person in the water. Keep a constant watch. If you are on a river you may need to turn so as to approach them slowly going against the stream. Pull them to the side of the boat and help them aboard with a ladder, rope or pole.
Be prepared • Wear a life jacket unless you are absolutely certain it is safe not to do so, paying particular attention to those operating locks and on side decks • Ensure all onboard know how to fit lifejackets • Keep lifebelt and rope available, and in good working order and make sure everyone knows where they are and how to use them. • Practice the drill with all onboard. It's better to learn it before you need to do it. • Have a read of the RYA Inland Waterways Handbook available digitally or in print from rya.org.uk/ go/shop
In shallow canals and slow rivers they may be able to stand up and walk out. S teer the boat slowly to the bank.
What about avoiding accidents? • Keep the decks clean and clear of ropes and other obstructions • Wear non-slip soled shoes. • Use a non-slip surface on the gunwales. • In tunnels and bridges keep within the form of the boat. • The skipper should be keeping watch to tell crew about any obstructions like overhanging branches • If the skipper falls overboard another crew member should know how to stop the propeller and steer the boat.
Should I take a course? Training is brilliant preparation for a boating holiday, it’s great fun and
Weil’s Disease
Although the risk of disease is small it is best to take precautions after falling in: • Take a shower • Wash all cuts and abrasions and treat with a sterile dressing • Wash all wet clothing thoroughly • If flu-like symptoms develop see a doctor and tell him you fell in the canal/river you will learn so much. The RYA’s Inland Waterways Helmsman or Crew Courses are the perfect way to build your confidence up. Visit www.rya.org.uk/go/training to find a course. Visit rya.org.uk/go/ wheresmynearest to find a centre.
8 NETWORKING
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The 4 C’s go cruising across the Wash BOATERS from the Cotswolds Canal Cruising Club – ‘the 4 C’s’ – tackled their latest adventure, a crossing of The Wash, on their way to Bedford River Festival which took place in mid-July. Towpath Talk caught up with the seven crews, plus another boater also wishing to make the crossing, as they waited for the tide to level enabling them
to pass through the Grand Sluice Lock at Boston on June 26. They were briefed by their guide, Wash pilot Daryl Hill who has 30 years’ experience of the estuary, which is one of the broadest in the UK. Events co-ordinator Bob Hallam explained that the club was formed after a commemorative cruise in 2011 by a number of narrowboats to mark
The narrowboats start to pass through the Grand Sluice Lock at Boston from the River Witham to the tidal Haven River. PHOTOS: JANET RICHARDSON
the centenary of the last commercial passage by a loaded working boat (The Gem) along the Stroudwater Canal and the Thames & Severn Canal. As the former through route from the River Severn and Stroud to the Thames is currently under restoration, the 2011 cruise to Inglesham followed alternative routes via Stratford-uponAvon and Bristol. “People said it was such a good idea, we should do it again,” said Bob. It was decided to form the Cotswolds Canal Cruising Club, but with members from all over the country. “We don’t have any premises and are internet based. We have about 25 boaters altogether and our motto is: ‘we are the club that really cruises’. ” He explained: “We like to take people to do things that they would not really do on their own, such as crossing the Wash, Mersey, Ribble Link and Birmingham Canal Navigations.” The 4 C’s, whose boats are recognisable with their orange burgees, also support events on canals which are campaigning for restoration, such as the Cotswold Canals and the Chesterfield Canal. Their journey to the Bedford River Festival was expected to take around 15 days, following the River Nene, the Middle Level Navigations and the River
Heading in line towards the St Botolph’s footbridge. Great Ouse, visiting Peterborough, the most easterly point on the system at Brandon Creek and the Cathedral city of Ely. Following the festival they were due to return via the Northampton Arm to the Grand Union Junction.
● Wash pilot Daryl Hill can be contacted on 07909 880071, washguide@gmail.com For a video clip of the narrowboats at Boston, see https://youtu.be/_REy1Rt42is
Cof f ee m orning boost to breach appeal A SUCCESSFUL coffee morning was held to boost funds for the Canal & River Trust’s Middlewich breach appeal. It took place in the garden next to Bridge 30 of the Middlewich Branch of the Shropshire Union Canal and was well supported.
Walkers supporting the Wey & Arun Canal Trust enjoyed a lovely 12-mile route. PHOTO SUPPLIED
W alkers discov er ‘ lost canals’
TOWPATH
TALK
SUPPORTERS of the Wey & Arun Canal Trust came together for the charity’s annual sponsored walk. The 12-mile route offered the opportunity to discover the disused Portsmouth & Arundel Canal along with the picturesque River Arun, as well as raise funds for the trust’s restoration work. The Wey & Arun Canal Trust is working hard to restore 23 miles of navigable waterway linking the River Arun at Pallingham in West Sussex to the River Wey at Shalford in Surrey, and the sponsored walk makes a vital contribution to pushing the restoration effort forward.
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Some 144 walkers strapped on their boots and set off from Walberton Village Hall in Arundel for the circular route. Along the way participants were not only able to enjoy the Sussex countryside, but got a fascinating glimpse of canal structures, including the entrance to the Portsmouth & Arundel Canal at Ford, a buried canal bridge hidden in a residential area and the Hollingworth swing bridge. They were also treated to a traditional tea at the last stop. The Portsmouth and Arundel Canal was abandoned in 1855 after it failed to be a financial success. It had been part of a larger scheme to allow craft to move from the Thames in London to Portsmouth without having to enter the Channel. It formed the southernmost half of the waterway link of which the Wey & Arun Canal forms the northern route and which the trust is aiming to restore fully. Wey & Arun Canal Trust chairman Sally Schupke was delighted to report that the ‘Poddle’ raised more than £10,000 and praised organisers and volunteers for their efforts. She said: “The event brought together members and supporters for a fantastic day out. All those participating enjoyed exploring the walk and discovering more about the story of our lost canals. “I would like to congratulate those who took part and event organiser Margaret Darvill and her team for their incredible dedication and hard work.”
A coffee morning to raise money for the Middlewich breach appeal attracted many supporters.
CRT supplied advertising material, erected orange safety netting along the canal edge in the garden, gave bunting to give a party atmosphere, set up a gazebo as an entrance to the garden and another gazebo at Wardle Lock as an information point. CRT staff were at the event throughout. Morrisons and Tesco supermarkets in Middlewich supported the event, with coffee, tea, soft drinks, biscuits and cakes bought from both supermarkets using vouchers they donated. Additional home-made cakes and goods for the stalls were donated by local people and there was a tombola, two bric-a-brac stalls, conserves and pickles, a bottle tombola, plant stall, cakes to eat and take away and, last but not least, the famous nail game, which, as usual, brought lots of fun and laughter. The Trent & Mersey Canal Society took the opportunity to formally present a cheque for £500 to CRT for the appeal. The event was a success in that the
The Trent & Mersey Canal Society presented a cheque for £500 to support the CRT appeal.
PHOTOS SUPPLIED
visitors enjoyed themselves and the aim of raising funds far exceeded expectations, with the final total £486.42.
P uddle clay firm supports nature reserv e plan AN unusual collaboration between Lichfield’s canal restoration trust and a leading supplier of materials to the ceramics industry means the next stage in the creation of a nature reserve and wetlands in the city is set to go ahead. Stoke-on-Trent firm Potclays is supplying puddle clay for a waterproof lining to the wetlands area being created at Fosseway Heath by Lichfield and Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust. The trust began work on the nature reserve last year after receiving an £18,500 grant from the Postcode Local Trust, a grant-giving body funded by players of People’s Postcode Lottery. The restoration of the Heritage Towpath Trail in this area was not possible as the original canal towpath was lost by earlier adverse possession and it was necessary to divert the canal channel and the towpath across a new boardwalk and islands through the new wetlands area. Trust volunteers, supported by students from Queen’s Croft
School and student volunteers on a bricklaying course at Walsall College, are dismantling and rebuilding the supporting brick walls to the original southern towpath to allow the Heritage Towpath Trail to be restored along this length of the Lichfield Canal. Peter Buck, LHCRT engineering director, said: “The trust tries to use local businesses in the restoration of the Lichfield Canal as an amenity for the community and we are pleased that Potclays are able to help with the supply of puddle clay to line the diverted wetland section of the Lichfield Canal.” Potclays Ltd director Becky Otter said: “Potclays are pleased to support Lichfield and Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust through the supply of sealant (‘puddle’) clay from our mine near Brownhills, Walsall. “We’re delighted to have the opportunity of supporting the restoration of a piece of Staffordshire heritage in this way. “Potclays have supplied puddle clay
The newly-built wall and boardwalk at Fosseway Heath Nature Reserve and Wetlands. PHOTO SUPPLIED to the trust in previous years and for various other civil engineering projects including the building of part of the M6 motorway. "It’s a source of great pride to us that our materials can be used in this way.” Meanwhile, on the north side of the original canal channel at Fosseway Heath, a new stone towpath is being restored by Trust volunteers with the help of visiting corporate volunteer groups from Network Rail and Laing Murphy JV.
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River people Traditional wooden boat surveyor Colin Henwood tells Elizabeth Rogers about his 40 years in business and recent move to a centre for woodworking professionals. WHEN Colin Henwood started a new boat-building and restoration business 18 months ago, he found a location that has proved to be ideal for the siting of his workshop. He has established Colin Henwood, Traditional Wooden Boat Surveyor and Builder as part of the community of woodworking professionals at the Sylva Foundation Wood Centre at Little Wittenham, near Wallingford, Oxfordshire. A national charity supporting sustainable forest management, the foundation created the Wittenhams Community Orchard and Future Forest on its land in 2017. Colin has now been in business for some 40 years. “I have spent most of my working life with boats and other related things,” he said. “I came up to Oxfordshire from the south coast where I had been involved with work on glassfibre boats and racing yachts. But I really wanted to become a craftsman, so I came up to the River Thames. This is one of the best places for finding craft like wooden boats. “I worked with Peter Freebody at Henley. He has a great reputation for high-quality craftsmanship. I worked there for a little while, then I wanted to set out on my own, as you tend to do. “I set up my new business in an old farm building in Hambleden, at Greenlands Farm; it is on the Hambleden Estate and there is an established boatyard there. “The name of the business was
Henwood & Dean. Robert Dean had joined me, he spent about six years with me, after which time he left and I continued on my own, but kept the original name. “Then about a year-and-ahalf ago I sold this business to Tony Knight and Dan Wood and they are carrying it on. They have moved to new premises and they are doing very well. That was when I was wanting to re-establish myself. “I trained Tony Knight, he joined me straight from school as a 16-year-old, that was about 11 years ago. And now he is one of the managing directors of the new company. “Dan Wood had worked with us occasionally, on the boat transport side. They complement one another very well and have a good working relationship. I am very happy with the way things have turned out, both for them and for me.
Great camaraderie
“The Sylva Foundation, where I now have my own place, is a very interesting organisation. There is some really good workmanship among the other workers with wood. The people there make it a very interesting and imaginative place,” said Colin. “The River Thames is a wonderful resource for us, although we are not close beside it. I have recently finished working on a lovely Thames motor canoe. Some of the canoes on the river use paddles and some electric power. “I have done work for clients
Built in 1908, Gillian is a fine example of a 24f t traditional Thames double skiff which has been completely restored by Colin and is almost entirely original.
The electric launch Lady Helen. ● Colin Henwood, Traditional Wooden Boat S urveyor and Builder. Contact 01491 57 3 7 7 6 colinhenwoodboats@ gmail.com www.colinhenwood.com
Traditional boat builder and restorer Colin Henwood. PHOTOS SUPPLIED
who want to replace motor with electric power in their boats. That is quieter. “I also do some teaching and I recently ran a course here at the Sylva Foundation on paddle-making. “I don’t make oars myself, but sometimes I made canoe paddles. Recently I made some for a Canadian paddle boat. The course went down pretty well here. I also teach at a boat-building school at Lyme Regis in Dorset at its annual finishing course. “Teaching is something that many craftspeople like to do, we find it quite interesting. “My work for my business is mainly for private clients, some may be those who have a property beside the river and would like to have a beautiful hand-crafted boat at the bottom of their garden. I also have some commercial clients such as hotels and businesses. “I enjoy working with my clients, discussing perhaps rebuilding – I enjoy the interaction. They learn a lot from me and I learn a lot from them. We have some fascinating discussions.” A few years ago Colin wrote and had published a book about his craft which he entitled Head, Heart, Hand – A Boat-Builder’s Story. Colin gives great credit to his wife Lucie for the part that she has played throughout, in the building-up of the business from its earliest days. “She is the brains behind its success,” he said. “She has been a key element as she has dealt with all the administration. Craftspeople should be making things and so the administration part tends to get put to one side.” Although Colin works on his own at Little Wittenham he is not in isolation, for there is a great camaraderie there. “We all help each other,” he says. “A fellow craftsman is always willing to give a helping hand whenever something turns out to be a two-man job.” Colin works with a variety of timber, but prefers mahogany, English oak and teak. “They are the most significant timbers, and used by quite a few other boat-builders. Beech is not a suitable wood.” Working with wooden boats is where Colin is at his most happy. “I now spend 100% of my time in my workshop, which is wonderful,” he added. “I am a craftsman through and through, and I enjoy all the contact with my customers and looking after them.”
NETWORKING 9
10 COMMUNITY BOATING
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Bringing sunshine on the River Soar By Janet Richardson
A LEICESTER charity has celebrated the launch of its new community boat which will enable more people with disabilities to enjoy trips on the River Soar. Built by MGM Boats at Thurmaston on to a hull from Star Line Boats of Nuneaton, Sunbeam II is a wide beam which can carry 12 passengers, up to four in wheelchairs. Its facilities include a hoist, kitchen, toilet facilities which can accommodate a wheelchair user and carer, as well as a light and spacious saloon and forward deck. Trustee and chairman of mosaic: shaping disability services Warwick Best explained that it replaces the original adapted narrowboat which was given to the charity in 1971. It then had an estimated lifespan of 10 years but finally went out of commission last year, having carried more than 50,000 passengers. Founded in 1898, mosaic is currently celebrating its 120th year. “It is very apt we acknowledge this milestone with the official launch of this craft. Seventeen years ago Sunbeam I had a major refurb and was also relaunched in June. It has served us very well,” he told users and supporters gathered for the launch. “Sunbeam is a vital part of mosaic; not just a day out with friends but a
The wide beam Sunbe a m
II.
Chairman of trustees Warwick Best, centre, with Leicestershire County Council chairman Coun Ozzy O’Shea and the High Sheriff of Leicestershire, Diana Johnson. PHOTOS: JANET RICHARDSON
chance to meet new friends and reduce isolation. A chance to stop off and have a bite to eat and to enjoy the beautiful countryside and it is beneficial to both mental and physical wellbeing.” It was decided to buy a wide beam boat in order to cater for today’s larger wheelchairs. The skippers formed a fundraising committee and a concerted effort by a number of groups and people helped to make it possible.
Completely run by volunteers, the boat provides day trips with a lunchtime stop on the river from its base at the Hope & Anchor at Syston.
Guests on the forward deck.
The wheelchair hoist.
Spacious toilet facilities.
Thanks were expressed to the trustees for going ahead with the new boat build and everyone who held events to raise money or made donations. The chairman of Leicestershire County Council, Coun Ozzy O’Shea, presented a plaque commemorating a £5000 Shire Community Grant towards the project, before the High Sheriff of
Leicestershire Diana Johnson cut the ribbon. She commented that the name Sunbeam II was incredibly apt on such a beautiful morning and praised the inspiring work of the volunteers to enable users to enjoy days away from the usual routine and isolation that a disability can cause. www.mosaic1898.co.uk
Tower of London welcomes Waterways Chaplains THE profile of chaplaincy to Britain’s waterways took a step up when chaplains from around the country met at the Tower of London for a service with a focus on this growing movement. The Tower’s own Chapel Royal was built by Henry VIII in 1520 and is steeped in history. It has its own regular congregation into which the visiting Waterways Chaplains, most of them identified by their distinctive gilets, were welcomed by Tower Chaplain Canon Roger Hall. A dignified Church of England service with choir and vestments was possibly not the usual Sunday fare for most of the chaplains present, but everyone felt welcomed with open arms in this colourful setting, the Tower grounds outside packed with tourists and visitors. BBC Songs of Praise presenter Pam Rhodes delivered an engaging address, highlighting how “Waterways Chaplains walk the towpaths because Christ walked the Earth”. Her awareness of ministry to the waterways is informed by her experience of close family members being liveaboard boaters and she noted the necessity of practical neighbourliness and how assumptions can never be made about people’s personal circumstances. Pam stressed how some people gladly “run to the waterways” because of the attractive life they appear to offer, while others might be running to them because of what they need to leave behind. She commented on the high number of single older men living aboard boats,
T he M a ry A rc ha rd on the River Avon. PHOTO: CLARE CAPE
Wheelyboat trips on the Wilts & Berks Waterways Chaplains with actor David Suchet, centre, at the Tower of London. PHOTO: ANDREW TAYLOR many of whom risk isolation as health breaks down and age encroaches. The day at the Tower concluded for chaplains with a cream tea and time to be together. “New recruits for London and the Thames were there,” said Senior Chaplain, the Revd Mark Chester, “and this service was in part a celebration of 10 years since the first moves were made towards setting up what is now established very strongly. “It was also an opportunity to highlight that our growing band of over 70 Waterways Chaplains has something unique to offer in terms of practical pastoral care for the two million or so
people who live and work on and around our rivers and canals.” A notable celebrity narrowboat owner who just happened to be sharing in worship agreed to join the chaplains’ photograph afterwards. Actor David Suchet has owned four narrowboats and is about to embark on a search for number five. “We wish him well with his quest,” added Mark, “and, like so many others who cruise our 2000 miles of waterways, we know he will be glad that willing chaplains are there to share both the joy of the waterways and the trials of those who may be struggling behind the colourful exteriors of their boats.”
THE Wilts & Berks Canal Trust’s wheelyboat The Mary Archard will provide boat trips on the newly opened Pewsham stretch of the canal on the Saturdays of August 11, September 8 and October 13. It will also be available for trips along the River Avon during the Melksham Food & River Festival, September 1-2. Local branch chairman Dave
Maloney said a suitable slipway had been constructed at Pewsham for The Mary Archard, which has a wind-down ramp at the bow enabling wheelchairs and buggies to be easily wheeled on board. The trust can also offer trips on another open stretch of canal at Swindon on board its narrowboat Dragonfly, which is fitted with a hydraulic ramp.
● The local branch is always keen to welcome volunteers in various roles including work parties, fundraising, project management and research. Visit www.wbct.org.uk For trips on D ra g onfl y , visit www.wbct.org.uk/experience/ take-a-boat-trip
COMMUNITY BOATING 11
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The regatta included competitive bell boat racing. PHOTOS SUPPLIED
Minister joins the fun at Rivertime regatta THE Rivertime Boat Trust and Give Them a Sporting Chance staged the second Rivertime Accessible Regatta in the Thames Valley for children and young people with disabilities. Held at the Bisham Abbey National Sports Centre, Berkshire, the regatta included competitive bell boating, accessible sailing, wheelchair powerboating and canoeing, as well as a variety of land-based sports and training activities. Nine organisations provided 18 different participatory sports and activities, including eight water sports, and this allowed more than 300 children and young people from 23 special educational needs (SEN) schools based across six counties, a unique chance to get out on the water in a safe and controlled environment and try a new sport or activity they might not otherwise have the opportunity to do. They were ably supported by more than 40 volunteers from the Rivertime Boat Trust and Rotarians. The Minister of State for Disability, Health & Work, Sarah
Children were given the chance to get out on the water. Newton MP, officially opened this year’s regatta and its patron, Paralympic gold medallist Naomi Riches, who addressed the guests, was supported by fellow Paralympians Rachel Morris, Katie-George Dunlevy, Jeanette Chippington, James Fox and Giedre Rakauskaite. Esme O’Connell, the T20 World Para Athletics Long Jump World Champion, who is a student at Alfriston School, also addressed the guests. Simon Davis co-founder and
chairman of Rivertime Boat Trust, which staged the event with Give Them a Sporting Chance, said: “The Trust aspires to stimulate children and young people with disabilities to develop a long-term involvement with accessible sports and seeing the children having such a fantastic time was a crowning achievement for everyone involved; from our incredible volunteers to the wonderful organisations that helped to run the activities.”
Take care when choosing a CO alarm RECENT reports about non-working imported carbon monoxide (CO) alarms sold on internet shopping sites have prompted the Boat Safety Scheme (BSS) to issue a timely warning. It has teamed up with the Council of Gas Detection & Environment Monitoring (CoGDEM) to urge boaters to choose one from the list of CO alarms suitable for boats as recommended by the makers of independently certified products – the list can be found on the home page of the BSS website. BSS manager Graham Watts said: “Reports of new alarms not working out of the box are very concerning, so our advice to anyone worried that they have bought a non-functioning alarm for their boat, is to reassure themselves by looking for the Kitemark or LPCB Certification Mark. “Incident reports collected by the BSS
show that properly certified CO alarms have repeatedly protected skippers and crews from the hidden dangers of CO and ought to be regarded as part of the boat’s essential safety equipment.” CO alarms certified to BS EN 50291-2 are the best choice for boats, but if you have a CO alarm BSI or LPCB certified to BS EN 50291, or 50291-1, CoGDEM’s advice is to keep it, test it routinely and when it needs replacing, choose a unit certified to BS EN 50291-2. Alarms not only warn people about immediately dangerous amounts of CO, they can alert people to the presence of the lower, but still health affecting, levels. More information about staying safe from CO on boats is available at www. boatsafetyscheme.org/co
12 IWA ROUND-UP
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AROUND THE BRANCHES WITH IWA’S GEMMA BOLTON
A summer of festivals A festival atmosphere along the towpath. PHOTOS: IWA
Holiday highlight at St Neots
THE annual Festival of Water comes to St Neots, Huntingdonshire, over the bank holiday weekend (August 25-27). A weekend of fun for boaters, campers and all who love spending time by the water, there will be attractions for all the family and boats lining the mile of River Great Ouse that flows past Regatta Meadow. The festival will highlight some of the valuable work IWA is doing to find solutions to the funding threats affecting waterways throughout the Anglian region, and encourage boaters to cruise the under-visited Middle Level Navigations. Bookings are open for campsite pitches: www.waterways. org.uk/festivalofwater
Boats gathered on the R iver Lee for the Ware Boat Festival.
Lee boaters enjoy weekend of fun and frolics at Ware IWA Lee & Stort Branch hosted its annual Ware Boat Festival, on the River Lee July 6-8. A weekend of fun and frolics on, in and
around the river and the town, the event featured a decorated boat parade, boat handling competition and a barbecue.
Keep an eye out for next year’s event at www.waterways.org.uk/leeandstort/ ware_boat_festival
Trial campaign cruise raises issues on the Old Bedford River AHEAD of a planned campaign cruise this month (August) on the Old Bedford River, two boats belonging to IWA Peterborough
Olive Emily passes through Welney G ate on the Old Be dford R iver campaign cruise. PHOTO: MIKE DAINES
Branch members took part in a trial run over the weekend of July 8-9. The aim of the campaign cruise is to get a flotilla of boats into and out of the Old Bedford River and up to Welches Dam ahead of IWA’s Festival of Water at St Neots, to highlight the fact the lock has now been closed for a staggering 12 years and support the campaign for its reopening. Narrowboats Olive Emily and Lily May became the first boats through the Old Bedford Sluice this year. Only Olive Emily made it as far as the current limit of navigation at Welches Dam, as Lily May experienced engine problems, exacerbated by the weed and lack of dredging in one particular area. The team organising the August cruise has raised this issue, along with one of excessive weed and reeds at Welches Dam, with the Environment Agency, in the hope that the
Film competition at Oxford event SUPPORTED by IWA Oxfordshire Branch, Oxford Canal Festival organised by Oxford Canal Heritage will see music, walks and activities alongside the canal at the Aristotle Lane Recreation Ground. IWA Oxfordshire Branch will be organising free trip boats for festivalgoers and promoting the inland waterways as they do for Banbury Canal Day every year.
The event, on Saturday, September 8, noon to 6pm, will also include a fancy dress parade, dog show, food and drink, canal traders, canal olympics, Roses and Castles painting, swingboats and talks. A video competition for young film makers is encouraging people aged five to 16 to produce a video depicting canal life, with cash prizes to be won.
Support for Chelmsford celebration IWA Chelmsford Branch supported Chelmsford River Festival at Springfield Basin on the Chelmer & Blackwater Navigation, by acting as harbour master and promoting the waterways. The Festival was part of a bigger event taking place in the town. Chelmer Cruises, part of IWA’s Essex Waterways, brought trip boat Victoria to
the basin to offer cream teas, and boat trips were provided by Blackwater Dawn. As Victoria returned to her base at Paper Mill Lock the following day, nine councillors including the mayor, deputy mayor and the past mayor travelled from Springfield Basin to Sandford Mill to see the recent developments at Springfield Basin from the water.
The trailboat procession at M oira in 2 0 17 . PHOTO: PHIL SHARPE
Lancaster Canal to host next year’s IWA trailboat party Olive Emily turns among the weed and reeds by Welches Dam Lock on the O ld Bedford R iver campaign cruise.
PHOTO: PETER COX
situation can be improved before the larger group of campaigning boats cruises this statutory navigation.
IWA Lancashire & Cumbria Branch will next year host IWA’s Trailboat Festival to celebrate the bi-centenary of the opening of the Lancaster Canal and raise the profile of the current and future regeneration of the Northern Reaches. The festival will be held alongside Country Fest and
IWA WORK PARTIES IN AUGUST Anyone i nt endi ng t o at t end one of t hes e ev ent s f or t he fi rs t t i m e s hou l d cont act t he organi s ers b ef orehand and w ear s u i t ab l e cl ot hi ng and f oot w ear. I f s t ayi ng al l day t ak e a p ack ed l u nch u nl es s ot her arrangem ent s are i ndi cat ed.
EAS T
S unday August 12
IWA Lincolnshire Branch supporting S leaford Navigation Trust: Volunteers will carry out a variety of tasks to maintain the navigable section of the Sleaford Navigation. Contact Chris or Steve Hayes: 01522 689460, workparties@sleafordnavigation.co.uk
MIDL ANDS
IWA Chester & M erseyside Branch: Work party in the Chester area working at various locations alongside the Shropshire Union Canal, 10am-4pm. Work will include painting and vegetation clearance. Contact Jason Watts: jason.watts@canalrivertrust.org.uk IWA M anchester Branch: Work party in Greater Manchester, 10am-4pm. Tasks will include vegetation clearance, litter picking, painting and pulling rubbish out of the canal. Contact: 07710 554602, secretary@ manchester-iwa.co.uk
Tuesday August 28
Tuesday August 14
S O UTH
IWA Northampton Branch: Work party 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. IWA Birmingham, Black Country & Worcestershire Branch: Work party in Kidderminster, meet 10am at Limekiln Bridge. To confirm, contact: david.struckett@ waterways.org.uk
TH
Thursday August 16
IWA North S taffordshire & S outh Cheshire Branch and Caldon & U ttoxeter Canals Trust: Work party on the Uttoxeter Canal, 10am-3pm. Contact Steve Wood 07976 805858, steve.wood@ waterways.org.uk IWA North S taffordshire & S outh Cheshire Branch and Trent & M ersey Canal S ociety: Work party on the Cheshire Locks, Trent & Mersey Canal, 10am-3pm. Contact: John Lawson 07940 878923, John.lawson@ waterways.org.uk
PHOTO: DENNIS PADFIELD
S aturday August 18
S unday August 5 and Tuesday August 21
NOR
S pringfield Basin on the Chelmer & Blackwater Navigation.
trailboaters will be invited to cruise the newly-restored “First Furlong”. Bookings for trailboat moorings and campsite pitches are now open for IWA’s 2019 Trailboat Festival on the Lancaster Canal. Find out more at www.waterways.org.uk/ trailboat
IWA North S taffordshire & S outh Cheshire Branch supporting Burslem Port Trust: Work party on the Burslem Arm, Stoke-on-Trent, 10am-3pm at Middleport. Contact: Steve Wood 07976 805858, steve.wood@ waterways.org.uk
Tuesdays August 2 1 and 28
IWA O xfordshire Branch supporting Banbury Canal Partnership: Work party on the Oxford Canal near Banbury, 9am-1pm. Contact Colin Garnham-Edge bcpontheoxford@gmail.com
WES T
Every Tuesday and S aturday in August
IWA West Country Branch ( Bridgwater) : Work party in the Bridgwater area. 10am-1.30pm. Please let us know by 6pm the day before if you are intending to join us. Contact Mike Slade 07977 263840, mike.slade@waterways.org.uk
Every S aturday in August
IWA West Country Branch ( Taunton) : Work party in the Taunton area. 10am – 1:30pm. Please let us know by 6pm the day before if you are intending to join us. Contact Steve 07855 794256, stevebulgin@icloud.com
For further information on any of these events please contact G emma Bolton on 0 14 94 7 83 4 53 or email gemma.bolton@ waterways.org.uk Details can also be found on IWA’ s website at www.waterways.org.uk
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13
14 HERITAGE
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Urgent appeal to keep historic tug afloat By Sarah Spencer
AN URGENT appeal has been launched to save one of the most historic vessels in the UK as it celebrates its 90th year. Portwey is one of only two twin screw, coal fired, steam tugs now active in the United Kingdom – and trustees are facing a race against time if it is to remain afloat for future generations. They need to attract sponsorship for a new set of fire bars and other vital repairs to the vessel, which is included in the core collection at National Historic Ships UK. The fire bars in the two furnaces of the vessel need replacing at a cost of £7100. Each one is almost 6ft long and weighs just under 40kg, and 60 are required (30 in each). Added to this, the volunteers are undertaking the replacement of the rubbing strake (like the bumper on a car) at a cost of £8000. The original one was elm belting, with a 100mm wide band of feather edge steel on the face of it to protect the wood as the tug came alongside jetties, barges, etc. Neither of these two materials is available at a cost the trust can afford, so Douglas Fir is being used as a replacement
for the elm and 75mm feather edge banding. Plus there are many other items that need attention. Steve Page, chairman of the Steam Tug Portwey Trust, said: “Keeping a historic vessel in steaming condition is an expensive business; we only survive on the kind donations from members of the public and sponsorship from sympathetic companies.” Fundraising appeals in the past have had good support, but these have been for relatively small sums and confined to members of the trust and supportive organisations. If it is to keep Portwey in a steaming condition, the trust believes it now needs to target a much wider audience. Steve continued that until fairly recently when the Daniel Adamson (featured in the February issue of Towpath Talk and also part of the National Historic Ships core collection) became active again, Portwey was the only twin screw, coal fired steam tug operating in the UK – and maybe even the northern hemisphere. Steam tug Portwey is based in London and can be regularly seen in steam on the River Thames. It is open to visit
by appointment and goes to events where the public enjoy guided tours. Children in particular are fascinated by the coal fires and open machinery and gain an appreciation of how dangerous working conditions could be in 1927 when it was built, especially for the apprentices who could have been as young as 12 or 13. Portwey was built by Harland and Wolff at Govan in Scotland and, apart from a short lay-up in 1967 at the end of its working life, the tug has been in working order and in steam ever since. It was first owned by the Portland and Weymouth Coaling Company (hence the name) and worked along the south coast of England, based at Portland. During the Second World War the tug was controlled by the US Army and was based at Dartmouth, part of its duties being to tow in damaged craft – on one occasion narrowly missing being hit by a bomb. In 1951 Portwey was sold to the Falmouth Dock and Engineering Company, where it spent the rest of its working life, helping, during this time, with the construction of the Lizard and Anglesey lifeboat stations. In 1967, destined for the scrapyard, Portwey was bought
Volunteers are battling to make sure the historic steam tug Portwey remains a familiar feature of the Thames. PHOTO: STEAM TUG PORTWEY TRUST by Richard Dobson, who, with a group of dedicated friends, restored the tug to its former glory and maintained it for the next 15 years. In 1982 they were no longer able to continue this work and the tug steamed to London and was
donated to the Maritime Trust. The Steam Tug Portwey Association took Portwey on Demise Charter from the trust and continued the restoration, preservation and operation, steaming in the Thames and Medway.
Anyone who would like to sponsor a fire bar or make any other contribution can do so by contacting the trust’s treasurer Chris Nursey at 4 Almond Avenue, Wickford, Essex, SS12 0BN, or emailing him at jillandchrisn@ supanet.com Alternatively, use the Virgin Money donate button on the website www.stportwey.co.uk Everyone making a donation to the fire
In June 2000 the Steam Tug Portwey Trust (a limited company with charitable status) was created and purchased the tug from the Maritime Trust. Portwey’s current permanent berth is in South Quay of the West India Docks in London.
bar via the treasurer will receive a numbered certificate in recognition of their support. Steve Page, chairman of the Steam Tug Portwey Trust, said: “If you would like to become a member of the trust and receive regular information about Portwey or even volunteer to help run the vessel, I would love to hear from you and you can contact me at speedbirdsteve@gmail.com.”
A ward first f or historic tug preserv ation society By Harry Arnold
MERSEYSIDE-based Steam Tug Kerne Preservation Society received The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service in the recent Queen’s Birthday Honours List. This is an MBE equivalent and the highest award given to a voluntary group. It is the first time a historic vessel preservation trust has been honoured in this way. Created in 2002 by Her Majesty the Queen to celebrate the anniversary of her Coronation it recognises excellence in voluntary service and activity carried out by groups in the community. The citation honours the rescue and preservation of Kerne, one of Britain’s oldest operational steamships.
Kerne enters Dutton Locks on the River Weaver. PHOTO SUPPLIED
Steam tug Kerne on her home waters in Liverpool’s Canning Half-Tide Dock. PHOTO: WATERWAY IMAGES
Kerne was the last coal fired steamship to work commercially on the Mersey when in 1971 the preservation group stepped in and saved her from the scrapyard. Since then, the society has relied on the voluntary effort of its members, public donations and awards granted by The Transport Trust, National Historic Ships UK, The Pilgrim Trust and the Heritage Lottery Fund plus the support of many local businesses such as Cammell Laird, United Utilities and Peel Ports. The society is dedicated to keeping Kerne in steam and operational as a living reminder to the people of Merseyside and the North West of the days of steam at sea. Paul Kirkbride, a director of the preservation society, said: “We are delighted to receive the Queen’s Award and recognition of the work of our group over the last 47 years. Our members’ dedication has been an example of what can be achieved for the benefit of the nation’s maritime heritage.”
The replica Peak Forest Tramway wagon at Bugsworth Basin. PHOTO SUPPLIED
Replica tramway wagon built at Bugsworth Basin MEMBERS of the Bugsworth Basin Heritage Trust have built a replica Peak Forest Tramway wagon. They produced full construction drawings and used at least four original wheels and stub axles and many bits and pieces which were salvaged during the restoration of the canal basin. The chassis has been built by members using traditional techniques, using timber cut from redundant oak lock gate balance beams, courtesy of the Canal & River Trust. For the body steelwork modern
laser cutting was used, again from drawings by one of the volunteers. This ‘kit’ was assembled and mounted on to the chassis. The trust is having a gate made by a local blacksmith which will show the traditional hot riveting technique and will then install a limestone load. The replica wagon is now on display at Bugsworth Basin, on the peninsula between the lower basin arm and the wide. The only original still in existence is in the National Railway Museum at York. https://bugsworthbasin.org/
HERITAGE 15
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The bridge that slides rather than swings By Les Heath
LOVE them or hate them, electric swing bridges are par for the course for all narrowboaters who make extensive use of the canal system. Fears of holding up traffic, pressing the wrong buttons and confusion with the
A narrowboat passing through the bridge heading towards Keadby.
barriers often results in embarrassment and frayed tempers. But there is one unique canal bridge that neither boaters nor bridgekeepers are allowed to operate. In fact it is not a swing bridge but a sliding bridge which is actually operated by a railway signalman. Carrying a busy railway line just a couple of feet above the Stainthorpe & Keadby Canal, the bridge is said to be one of only three of its kind in Europe. Boaters who enter or leave the River Trent at Keadby will be familiar with this engineering marvel, which is within sight of the tidal lock. Known as the Vazon Sliding Railway Bridge, this extraordinary structure was created by Sir William Arrol & Co of Dalmarnock in Scotland – the same company which was responsible for
London’s Tower Bridge, the Forth Bridge and many more at home and abroad. The company was also the contractor for Keadby Bridge which crosses the Trent about a mile away from the Vazon Bridge. This was built in 1912 to replace a previous swing bridge opened in 1864. It carries a double track railway on the southern sides and the A18 road on the north side. Although this is yet another amazing structure, one of the first of its kind in Britain, it has not been lifted since 1956. Back to the Vazon Bridge, where many boaters have been kept waiting until the signalman is satisfied that there is a long enough gap in between trains for the bridge to be opened and allow the boats through.
‘Opened’ means the whole double rail track slides at a skewed angle and not along the line of the track. A moveable bridge has crossed the canal here since 1866. The first sliding bridge was built for the Great Central Railway’s Scunthorpe line in 1925. This was replaced in 2004 by the present, low-lying, sliding bridge. In order to allow boats to pass, the bridge slides sideways on rails pulled by steel cables. Two walkways are incorporated so that pedestrians can cross when the bridge is open or closed. The steel structure is powered by mains electricity although until 1925 it was powered by a massive bank of batteries. Such an unusual operation involving cables, rails, pulleys and locking pins has to be seen to be believed.
Vazon sliding bridge showing the staggered walkway in front of the train. Boats, trains and pedestrians are all controlled by the signalman. PHOTOS: LES HEATH So next time you pass through this spot or cruise under the mighty Keadby Bridge spare a thought for Sir William Arrol, the Scottish civil engineer who started work in a cotton mill at the age of nine, trained as a blacksmith at the age of 13 and went on to be one of the greatest bridge builders of all time.
New owner sought for historic barge with unusual portholes By Sarah Spencer
A NEW owner is being sought for a historic 110-year-old barge that once operated as a coal carrier on the Humber Estuary. Marlene Cutts (77) of Keadby is the long-time owner of Pioneer, built in 1910, but is now looking to sell the vessel. The barge was built at Watsons’ shipyard on the River Trent, opposite Gainsborough, commissioned by George Bisby and built to Dearne & Dove Canal dimensions. George had a contract to carry coal from Manvers’ coal staithe at Wath-upon-Dearne to Gainsborough for the Gainsborough Co-operative Society. After discharging the cargo at Gainsborough, the barges would either sail to Hull and pick up a load for Sheffield, or go up the Trent to take on sand or gravel for such places as Barron’s Glasswork at Mexborough.
At this time, Pioneer was crewed by Ainley Earnshaw Bisby and his wife and two sons. In 1912 tragedy struck when daughter Laura (12) fell off at Gainsborough, was taken by the tide and her body never found. Marlene said that although the family then went to live in a house in Mexborough rather than on board, the father and two sons continued to work together, doing the circuit in a week. “Bloody marvellous going!” said Marlene. “You couldn’t do that today in a week; they must have been going night and day.” She continued that in 1934 the government was offering 0% finance for engines and the Bisbys took advantage, installing a Lister JP2M – which is still there in working order today. The vessel was ‘left to rot’ at Thorne for 17 years after the family stopped using it and then moved to Stainforth in South Yorkshire, where it was spotted by Marlene 27 years ago. “I said, ‘couldn’t we do it up?’ and the man in
tow laughed and said it was ‘a nightmare waiting to happen,’ so I bought it,” she said. Marlene paid £7000, but said she knew she had ‘got a bargain’ because of the presence of the engine and the fact the vessel had been built from Cromweld stainless steel made in South Africa, that stopped it from rusting. Marlene agreed with her ‘skipper’ Stuart Whitworth that if she could raise the money from the bank for a new roof, he would fix the inside. They fitted it out completely – saving money on 20 portholes that would have cost £150 each by using washing machine doors as windows. “What else do you use when you are desperate!” said Marlene, a retired nurse. It was divided into three sections: workshop, living and sleeping. The pair lived on board at Keadby Lock for around 17 years, until Marlene’s father died and left her enough money to purchase a property. Of the restoration, Marlene said: “Together we
A new owner is sought for historic barge Pioneer. PHOTO SUPPLIED did it – how the hell we did it I don’t know, but we are both still alive because we did it!” In recent times, since devastating flooding, they have been helped out by the Maritime Volunteer Service. Marlene said she can’t afford to give away Pioneer, which is on the National Historic Ships UK register, but desperately wants it to find a good home and stay in the area it was built for. It is the only known barge left of six that were built for the Dearne & Dove Canal. Anyone interested in the vessel can contact Stuart on 07989987136 or at stutheboat@hotmail.co.uk
16 PETS
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Pets on the cut Parrot fashion
Alison Wilkerson hears one of this month’s subjects before she sees her. I LOVE hearing the sounds of wildlife and wildfowl while walking on the towpath and cruising north and south on the Grand Union. It makes my day, especially during the spring and summer months as they start at dawn and don’t finish until well after dusk some evenings. But I had to question my hearing recently as I heard what I thought was a parrot. Well, I know there are wild/feral parakeets in the suburban areas of London and the Home Counties of south-east England, as I have seen them – however, surely they have not ventured further north? To my surprise
it was a parrot and turned out to be a beautifully colourful 21-year-old bird, aptly named Parrot, on a 1984 38ft LR Harris (Leicestershire) narrowboat. This Meyer’s parrot is owned by Marina and Peter, who are pleasure cruisers and bought her five years ago from the classified advertising website www.preloved.co.uk. She is a beautiful small African parrot with grey/black feathers, turquoise tummy, blue rump and bright yellow markings on the joints of her wings and head. They also have a very handsome 11-year-old male black Labrador/collie cross called Ted, who they have owned for more than eight years. They take both on their boat, their first vessel, which they have owned for two years. Parrot and Ted have now travelled about 250 miles in total together and have been on various trips from one-day outings to nine-day adventures. Parrot is
probably the most photographed bird on the Grand Union and screeches, whistles and wolf whistles to passers-by. She has been known to sing to other parrots (yes there are other owners on the cut) and takes part in the dawn and dusk choruses but she does sleep once in darkness. She loves being on the boat and looking out of the windows, especially when being admired, and also loves a caravan but is not that keen on travelling in a car. She is a one-person parrot and loves her human mummy Marina, who she prefers to be on her own with –sorry, Peter! Ted, on the other hand, is a land lover but tolerates cruising and boating and has a special place to sleep. He listens to the engine and jumps on to the towpath as soon as he can, once the engine stops – he has been known to do so before it stops, but luckily he is a good swimmer. He loves people but
Fur and feather: Parrot sings for her supper under the watchful eye of Ted. PHOTO: ALISON WILKERSON is not keen on other dogs or cats and sleeps a lot nowadays but when awake he is a bit of a scavenger and food thief and will actually plan his food raids with the utmost precision. Parrot and Ted are real characters and
lovely to be around. They prefer to be together, proving that four-legged and feathered friends can live in harmony even if not perfect harmony, as these two are not necessarily friends with each other!
Second chance for Britain’s pets
Bounced back: Arnie, right, with fellow kitten Stanley.
FROM humble beginnings, Wood Green the Animals Charity is now one of the UK’s biggest animal charities – finding second chance homes for thousands of cats, dogs, chickens, rabbits and more every year since 1924. With three centres, including a stunning 52-acre site north of Cambridge, their dedicated team of animal specialists offers advice and guidance to pet owners across the UK. The charity is supported by a community of animal lovers, from the volunteers who turn up every
day to exercise eager dogs and foster pregnant cats and kittens, to those who open their doors to offer abandoned pets a new home. We followed the story of one kitten, Arnie, who was found filthy and in terrible pain, dumped in a box with his siblings late at night on the doorstep of Wood Green’s London Centre. The first team member who came to his aid could see that Arnie was much smaller than his siblings and was also dangerously underweight. An emergency examination from the charity’s veterinary specialists
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revealed that Arnie’s tail was so badly fractured that part of it had to be amputated – although this courageous kitten bounced back from his ordeal within days. Such a young kitten needs round-the-clock care, so the centre manager fostered Arnie, taking him home every evening to help him through his recovery. They developed a special bond but it was time for this brave kitten to find a new, second chance home with a family in north-east London. There are lots of ways to help Wood Green. If you want to give
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Arnie on the day of rescue. PHOTOS: WOOD GREEN
animals like Arnie a second chance at a new life, to donate or find out more about volunteering and fostering please call a member of their team on 0300 303 9333 or visit woodgreen.org.uk
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NEWS FOCUS 17
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Million-pound makeover at Hartford Marina By Janet Richardson
NEW moorings created during the first phase of a major investment at Hartford Marina are now complete and attracting their first occupants. They are part of a £1.2 million programme being carried out by Tingdene Marinas and Boat Sales which acquired the marina alongside the picturesque River Great Ouse near Huntingdon in April 2016. Marina manager Lucy Zeka explained that there are 47 berths on the new walk-on pontoons as seen at Southampton Boat Show and cater for narrowboats, wide beams and Dutch barges up to 70ft. The state-of-the-art pontoons have been supplied by Walcon Marine, installed by local company Irvins and equipped with smart-metered electrical supplies by Rolec. The marina will see the replacement and creation of more than 250 moorings as the work progresses, having started last November. “There is a lot happening here,” Lucy told me during a recent visit. “This week
The entrance to Hartford M arina.
The new pontoons attract their first occupants.
James Armstrong and Jacq ui Taylor on board her boat Natterjack. we are having the roads tidied up and other proposals include a new shower block and a launderette closer to where the berth holders are.” I had the chance to view the new pontoons from the water thanks to chandlery manager Jacqui Taylor, who is the daughter of the marina’s previous owner. Accompanied by James Armstrong, boat sales, we had a tour on board her boat Natterjack of the marina and out on to the River Great Ouse.
S ome of the local wildlife.
Downstream of the marina is Houghton Lock.
New generation
It is planned to complete the installation of a new boat sales pontoon by the end of the season. New and used boats are available through the brokerage, which is trying to attract a new generation of boaters. “We are aiming 52ft narrowboats for students to use as accommodation which they can then sell when they move on,” Lucy explained. Other facilities include a chandlery, free use of the pump-out and WiFi for berth holders who also run a social club
Boaters stop at the approach to Houghton Lock on the R iver G reat O use.
on the site and enjoy special events in the summer and at Christmas. There is also a restaurant which is independent of the marina. Further phases of the work will see the installation of finger pontoons for narrowboats and GRP cruisers. Situated in the heart of Cambridgeshire, Hartford Marina is close to the market towns of Huntingdon and St Ives and is a great place for people who wish to enjoy a cruise up or down the Great Ouse which accommodates beams up to 10ft 4in.
Hartford is one of nine marinas owned and operated by Tingdene Marinas and Boat Sales; the others that cater for wide and narrow beams are Thames & Kennet, Caversham, Pyrford, River Wey, Walton Marina, Stourport and Uptown on the River Severn and Brundall Bay and Broadlands on the Norfolk Broads.
The Great Ouse is linked to the canal network via the Middle Levels and River Nene, offering unlimited opportunities for inland and tidal boating. It will also be alongside the route taken by boaters heading for the IWA Festival of Water at St Neots over the August bank holiday weekend. Operations director Steve Arber said: “With this busy programme of improvements, we’re also confident it will become one of the notable destination marinas on the UK inland network and expect a busy 2018, paying close attention to the requirements of our loyal berth holders as well as welcoming other boat owners to enjoy what is here.”
Facilities for berth holders and visiting boaters.
Boats moored at the new pontoons. PHOTOS: JANET RICHARDSON
Catering for narrowboats, wide beam and Dutch barges up to 7 0 ft, the pontoons have a smart- metered electricity supply.
● Hartford M arina, Banks End, Wyton PE2 8 2 AA Contact 0 14 80 4 54 67 7 , hartfordmarina@ tingdene.net www.tingdene- marinas.co.uk/ marinas/ hartford- marina
Explore the Anglian waterways A NEW series of DVDs and cruising maps from Waterway Routes will be especially handy for boaters visiting the IWA Festival of Water at St Neots over the August bank holiday weekend. Covering the River Great Ouse and its tributaries, the River Nene and the Middle Level Navigations, the DVDs are complemented by a CD with three cruising maps of these waterways which can be used on PCs, tablets, smartphones and other navigation devices with the appropriate software installed. The River Nene links the Grand Union Canal to the River Great Ouse via the Middle Levels. Boaters approaching the festival from this direction will enter the Nene via the
Northampton Arm and this DVD takes you up through Peterborough to the Dog-in-a-Doublet Lock at the junction with the Stanground Branch near Whittlesey. Along the way through the Nene valley are 38 locks and such picturesque villages as Fotheringhay with its magnificent church and the site of the castle where Mary Queen of Scots was executed in 1588. You will then join the Middle Level Navigations through Stanground Lock, this DVD following the link through March to Salters Lode. For those wishing to cruise ‘off-piste’, viewers are also shown all the other navigations which can be cruised with a narrowboat including the Twenty Foot and Forty Foot Rivers.
The DVD of the River Great Ouse ney and its tributaries covers the journey from Salter’s Lode to Denver Lock and on to St Neots and Bedford.. ef Viewers are taken along the Relief Channel and the Rivers Wissey,, Little Ouse, Lark and Cam as well as the navigable lodes and the alternative tidal route along the New Bedford River. All three are available in either Popular format showing highlights of the waterways like a TV documentary; Bowcam – using a forward-facing camera speeded up to show everywhere or Combined with both in a box set, representing a £1 saving. They also include an information leaflet and fold-out map. The CD has three cruising maps
for these waterways which have been updated and are available in both Memory-Map (qct) Format for GPS tracking and Acrobat (pdf). They can also be downloaded instantly from the website. Prices for the Combined two-DVD sets are: River Great Ouse and Tributaries £19.90; Middle Level Navigations £14.90; River Nene £19.90 or £44.90 for the set of three.
The CD of the three cruising maps is £15 (Acrobat) and £24 (MemoryMap) with a 10% saving if bought at the same time as the set of DVDs. They are all available from the Waterway Routes website at www. waterwayroutes.co.uk ● Towpath Talk readers can benefit from a 10 % discount on these and all of the range by using code TT4 18.
18 EVENTS ROUND-UP
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Stamford passing the assembled company. PHOTOS: BOB JERVIS
Great footfall despite the match! By Bob Jervis
The scene on the Bridgewater Canal as the crowds appear.
Swallow concluded the parade.
THIS year’s Lymm Historic Transport Day took place on Sunday, June 24 and was blessed with glorious weather which brought the crowds out in huge numbers, despite England’s footballers in World Cup action in the early afternoon. A wide variety of historic transportation featured in the event, ranging from large numbers of classic cars, trucks, motorbikes and vintage
bicycles to steam traction engines and historic working boats. The working boats, both narrow and wide beam craft, have played an important part in the proceedings in recent years, lining the Bridgewater Canal in the centre of the village over the whole of the weekend, and in the case of fly-boat Saturn from the beginning of the week to accommodate educational visits from hundreds of local schoolchildren. Saturn and several other boats had
Steam power in the parade.
Saturn open to the public with towboat Buckden alongside.
The two largest craft present: Leeds & Liverpool longboat Ambush and duker Parbella.
been forced to make huge detours to get to Lymm due to the many canal and river stoppages currently afflicting north-west waterways. The stoppages prevented more than a few boats from being able to attend but it was good to see Leeds & Liverpool long boat Ambush and narrowboats Rudd and Swallow attending for the first time. As usual the boats had the honour of closing the event with a sailpast at the end of the afternoon.
Out of this world! Schoolchildren go aboard Saturn.
EVENTS ROUND-UP 19
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Floating market not so fab due to breach CROWDS turned out for the annual Middlewich Folk and Boat (FAB) Festival but there were not as many trading boats as usual, writes Colin Wareing. The floating market was in its traditional location along the Trent & Mersey Canal towpath towards Big Lock, but due perhaps to the breach which
has closed the Middlewich Branch of the Shropshire Union just outside the town, there were not as many traders as in some previous years. The weather was also dull with a heavy shower on the Saturday afternoon which had an impact on visitor numbers. This year’s headline act Peter Cook
V isitors browse along the floa ting market on the towpath. PHOTO: PHIL PICKIN
and the Light performed to a crowd of more than 1000 people on the festival field. Middlewich Town Council events manager Dave Thompson said afterwards: “We had a good attendance marred only by the weather not being as good as in previous years.”
The fl oating market gave a chance for fellow traders to have a good catch- up. R oberta, left, from coal boat Halsall of Four Counties Fuels Ltd, chats with R uth from the Chamberlain Carrying Co, which uses the historic Admiral Class narrowboats Mountbatten and Jellicoe to sell coal and fuel and R uth’ s painted canal ware. PHOTO: COLIN WAREING
This stall on the S alinae Field was selling little tin boats that are powered by steam produced from a small length of burning candle. PHOTO: COLIN WAREING M iddlewich R ose Q ueen Amelia Jones and her entourage parade along the canal. PHOTO: PHIL PICKIN
The band Min d over Ma tter make music on stage opposite the Big Lock pub as narrowboats Rowan and Tottleworth work up the lock, aided by a Canal & R iver Trust volunteer. PHOTO: COLIN WAREING
Heidi from the Pirate Boat has fun repelling potential boarders with her blow- up sword. PHOTO: COLIN WAREING
This trader had made an eightday j ourney from Audlem to sell some of his j ewellery made from old cutlery and coins. PHOTO: COLIN WAREING
Music and more for the Monty as the sun shines on Welshpool THE sun shone on Welshpool for a weekend of fun and entertainment with ‘Music for the Monty’ raising more than £1500 towards restoration of the Montgomery Canal. There were buskers in the Church Street car park, on the wharf and at the steam railway while one of the busiest spots was the Tesco car park where bands were playing. There were also singers and musicians performing outside
the town hall all weekend, also attracting the crowds. The Welshpool Transport Festival attracted a host of vintage vehicles to the Church Street car park from where they paraded around the town. On the Sunday there was a parade of Citroens from the station. Trip boats Countess, drawn by Cracker – see details in his Chat on page 110 – and from the Heulwen Trust were also kept busy throughout the weekend.
Heulwen II giving boat trips on the M ontgomery Canal at Welshpool.
A chance to go paddling at the Welshpool festival. PHOTOS: PHIL PICKIN
20 EVENTS ROUND-UP
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Canal festival crowds bask in glorious sunshine
Visiting dignitaries ready for a boat trip. PHOTOS: CHESTERFIELD CANAL TRUST UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED
Paddle sports activities on the basin.
A RECORD crowd witnessed a Lancaster bomber flying over Staveley Town Basin, followed by a Dakota the next day. These were just two of many highlights at the Chesterfield Canal Festival held over the weekend of June 30-July 1. At the festival staged by the Chesterfield Canal Trust, all four of its tripboats were in action carrying more than 800 passengers into Hartington Harbour, the newly built section of canal that was being used for the first time. The trust’s volunteers have spent several years building this section and their superb work drew admiring comments from everyone. Festival director David Kiddy said afterwards: “We could not be more pleased with the festival. It brought pleasure to thousands of people, showed off the fabulous construction work done by our volunteers and demonstrated yet again what an asset the canal is to the area. “This strengthens the Chesterfield Canal Trust’s resolve to get the remaining nine miles of canal restored.” Dozens of would-be navvies, young and old, had a go at driving a digger, while others chose to cool off in canoes provided by Pleasley Canoe Club, which
also organised canoe polo matches. The Newfoundland Training and Demonstration Team proved a real hit with several shows involving these huge dogs who clearly love being in the water and rescuing people. Other attractions included birds of prey, archery, lots of children’s rides, a bouncy castle, radio-controlled boats, a glitter painter and vintage vehicles. Encounter Exotics brought all manner of exciting animals, while the steamroller, Old Faithful, was a magnet for photographers. There was entertainment all day including music, dance and street theatre, both in the big marquee and outside by the lock. As you would expect there were dozens of stalls of every type including holistic massage, home-made cakes, bonsai trees, old tools, canal art, the RSPB – the list was long. All the catering and coffee stalls did a roaring trade, with the longest queues for Frederick’s ice cream. Brampton Brewery had to send for extra supplies of real ale several times and its cooling equipment was running at full power. There were two evening concerts.
Tripboats John Varley II and Seth Ellis at Tapton Lock during the Monday cruise.
Steamroller Old Faithful was a magnet for photographers. The Swing Commanders went down a storm on the Friday, while Some Antics plus Judy Dunlop and Jon Scaife, proved very popular on the Saturday. The view through the marquee’s wall of windows across the basin to the setting sun could not have been more spectacular. Finally, on the Monday, there was a flotilla of all four tripboats from Staveley Basin right up the canal to the floodgate at St Helena’s and back, with stops both ways at Hollingwood Hub and Tapton Lock. This proved very popular and delighted regular towpath users, who were not used to seeing lots of boats sailing by.
Tripboat Seth Ellis entering the newly built Hartington Harbour. PHOTO: JANET RICHARDSON
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O wd Lanky Boaters G roup stands at the Country Fest event. PHOTO: FRANK SANDERSON
Boaters add interest at country show LOCAL boating groups were among the exhibitors at the recent Country Fest held on the Westmorland county showground at Crooklands near Kendal, writes Frank Sanderson. There was something for all the family at this interesting and friendly show with a wide variety of exhibits. These included vintage cars and motorcycles, dog shows and performances, kite flying, craft stalls and all manner of trade stands. The Lancaster Canal Trust, which ran trips in its boat Waterwitch from the adjacent towpath, was well represented by volunteers taking time to chat to visitors.
Volunteers on the Inland Waterways Association stand were promoting next year’s IWA Trailboat Festival, which will coincide with the bicentenary of the building of the Lancaster Canal. The Owd Lanky Boaters Group and Lancaster Canal Boat Club had a large joint stand, complete with vintage boat Whimbrel and models of lock and tunnel systems. Also on display was the thriving canal art Roses and Castles, painted by their members. The entire ‘boating people’, as they are affectionately known, made an attractive and informative display.
Thames stalwarts recognised at awards ceremony By Elizabeth Rogers
The route to restoration THE festival was launched on the Friday afternoon with boat trips into the newly built Hartington Harbour for visiting guests and supporters. On a blisteringly hot afternoon, speakers in the marquee included Chesterfield Canal Trust publicity officer Rod Auton who spoke passionately about the restoration and future plans. He said the festival had first been held in Worksop in 1988 and most recently took place at Staveley two years ago. Rod outlined the history of the canal which opened in 1777 and was the last and most advanced canal to be designed by James Brindley. After the collapse of the Norwood Tunnel in 1907, it was thought that it wasn’t worth repairing so the Derbyshire end of the canal was left to rot. By the 1960s the canal was in a sorry state and amid fears that it would close completely, local people
Chesterfield Canal Trust publicity officer R od Auton speaking at the festival launch. PHOTO: JANET RICHARDSON
started campaigning to save it. Only 16 locks worked and more than 20 miles needed to be repaired. The first lock to be reopened was that at Tapton, Chesterfield, in 1990 and the fastest part of the restoration saw 22 locks restored in just 54 weeks. Since 1989, 12 miles, 37 locks and 117 road bridges have been restored and there are nine miles to go to link the two ends of the 46-mile canal. This includes an eight-mile pound which will be replaced by 17 locks so there is still a lot of work to be done. The aim has been to complete the restoration in time for the canal’s 250th anniversary in 2027 and would have been much further on had it not been for the announcement of the HS2 route which blighted the trust’s bid for funding. Following negotiations, things have now improved dramatically with the revised route now only crossing the canal twice. “A fully restored Chesterfield Canal would be worth over 1000 full-time equivalent jobs. The canal matters to Chesterfield, to the region and to the country,” Rod added. Trust chairman Robin Stonebridge said that over the last 40 years, people had slogged their guts out to make the restoration happen. “If it had been located 150 miles to the south, it would have been restored years ago,” he commented. If the Chesterfield Canal could eventually be linked to the Sheffield & South Yorkshire Navigation via the Rother Valley Link it would form part of a 110-mile ring which would be a magnet for tourism.
THE annual Thames Heritage Trust awards recognise individuals and groups who have made the most significant contribution to the life and well-being of the river. At the ceremony hosted by the River Thames Society, the John Coleman Trophy for an individual who has made an outstanding contribution went to George Mellett. A former seaman who is now a member of the Marine Volunteer Service, his association with the water began as a boy when he joined the Twickenham Sea Cadets. He has served on and skippered vessels for Thames-based activities, including the Thames Venturer for the River Thames Boat Project. The Bil family of Steve, Dilly and Charlie received the RTS Shield for the most significant contribution to river life and the Durant Cup for an individual was presented to Paul Coleman for, as well as much more, keeping the awards, which had been initiated by his father, in operation. Petersham & Ham Sea Scouts received the award for volunteer youth activities. At 109 years old, it claims to be the oldest sea scout group
R iver Thames S ociety president Lord O wen, second right, presents the R TS S hield to the Bil family: Charlie, Dilly and S teve. in the world and already has plans to use the monetary part of the award towards the purchase of a skerry for rowing purposes. The two branch awards were presented to Shepperton Slalom Canoe Club to help with the cost of equipment and to Skerries for Schools, a Richmond and Kingston-based charity. Awards were presented by RTS
G eorge M ellett, in M arine V olunteer S ervice uniform, receives the John Coleman Trophy from Jeanette Bird. PHOTOS SUPPLIED
president Lord Owen and by its administrator Jeanette Bird at the recent AGM which included a report from chairman Peter Finch and the election of council members. At the subsequent council meeting Peter was re-elected chairman with two vice-chairmen – Les Jones for the non-tidal section and Jack Betteridge for the tidal section of the river.
K arin Noble, leader of Petersham & Ham S ea S couts, receives the Thames Heritage Trust Award from Jeanette Bird, Thames Heritage Trust administrator.
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WHAT’S ON
Compiled by Janet Richardson
Email details of your event to: jrichardson@mortons.co.uk or send details to: What’s on, Towpath Talk, PO Box 43, Horncastle, Lincs LN9 6LZ
Glasgow Canal Festival boosted by urban games A DERELICT site on the banks of the Forth & Clyde Canal will be transformed into a vibrant events space when Scotland’s first urban sports festival jumps into Glasgow. Talented young athletes are set to skate, jump and roll into the city, as the nation’s first urban sports festival hits town to celebrate Scotland’s Year of Young People 2018. It takes place on Saturday, August 25, featuring parkour, skateboard and BMX showcases, public try-out sessions, a street food village and art installations. Hosted by Scottish Canals with support from SportInspired, Glasgow City Council and Glasgow Life, the free-towatch event will put Scotland’s young people in the spotlight, celebrating their talents, contributions and creating new opportunities for them to shine. Josie Saunders, head of corporate affairs at Scottish Canals, said: “North Glasgow has undergone a revolution in recent years and it’s fast becoming one of Scotland’s most vibrant urban sports destinations. This is the Year of Young People and it’s the perfect time to bring the first-ever Youth Urban Games to
Scott Houston of Parkour Scotland jumps into Glasgow ahead of the Youth Urban Games. PHOTO SUPPLIED the city to mark the next stage of that transformation.” As well as the Youth Urban Games, visitors to the city will be able to explore the many events, activities and unique sights offered by the Glasgow Canal Festival. Taking place on the same day as the games, the festival will feature live music, street food, crafts and activities – and the Glasgow Canal Dragon Boat Race. Now in its second year, the festival is organised by Scottish Canals, Glasgow City Council,
National Theatre of Scotland, The Whisky Bond, Queens Cross Housing Association, and various canalside communities and businesses. The festival celebrates the ongoing transformation of the area, which in recent years has seen the creation of a flourishing cultural quarter. Urban sports also sit at the heart of the area, with Pinkston Watersports – Scotland’s only urban white water course – and Glasgow Wake Park, located on the banks of the canal.
● For more information on the Youth Urban Games, see www. YUG2018.co.uk
Dudley Canal Trust trip boat Electra entering Parkhead Locks with a full complement of passengers. PHOTOS: JANET RICHARDSON
Trip boats to tunnels – a Dudley festival highlight MANY historic working boats will be on show at the Parkhead Canal Festival in Dudley. It takes place on Saturday and Sunday, September 29-30, 10am to 5pm, at Parkhead Locks, Dudley No.1 Canal, Holly Hall Road, DY2 0TT, organised by the Worcester-Birmingham & Droitwich Canals Society and Dudley Canal & Tunnel Trust.
Steam engines will also feature, as well as an air ambulance simulator, trade and craft stalls, vintage and classic commercials and cars and static engines. Don’t miss the great Dudley duck race on the Sunday at 3pm (tickets £1 per duck). A real ale bar with live entertainment in the marquee will cater for all tastes.
Steam engines are one of the attractions at the Parkhead Canal Festival.
Sean and Ricky Neill leg icebreaker Laplander through the Dudley Tunnel to the 2016 festival.
Trip boats will be operating all weekend into the famous Dudley Tunnels. Entry forms and information can be found by visiting www. wbdcs.org.uk and the Facebook page @parkheadcf Any boat arriving or leaving the festival via the Dudley Tunnels will have its entrance fee refunded.
Volunteers help at locks in aid of slipway fund
Open day at restoration project
A LOCK-AID fundraising event is being held by Chiltern Branch of the Inland Waterways Association. It will take place on the Grand Union Canal at Marsworth at Lock 39 by Bridge 132, 10am to 5pm, on Saturday and Sunday, August 11-12. Volunteers will be raising funds by assisting boaters through the lock, for a donation towards a project to build a slipway on the Wendover Arm. Anyone is welcome to go along and find out what members of Chiltern Branch are up to – and if so inclined can join in with the ‘lock wheeling’. Details of the group’s popular autumn-winter social events programme, featuring speakers and illustrated talks, will also be available. To find out more email John.brice@waterways.org.uk
A RESTORATION open day is being held by the Wendover Arm Trust at Drayton Beauchamp Church. It takes place on Sunday, September 2, 12.30pm to 4pm, and will feature guided tours of the restoration site (around a 25-minute walk) by the trust, which is working to restore the Wendover arm of the Grand Union Canal. There will also be sales stands, teas and cakes, plus a video presentation in the church and kayak and paddleboard activity on the restored canal section. Free entry and car parking (donations are welcome).
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Alrewas unveils packed arts programme By Harry Arnold
ALREWAS – on the Trent & Mersey Canal – will be hosting its biennial week-long arts festival again this year. Running from August 25 to September 1, it has a great line-up of performances, including lunchtime classical concerts, a ceilidh, choral music, drama, poetry, folk and jazz. There will also be a full programme of free workshops for people who want to have a go at anything from painting to photography; rag rugs to roses and castles; and calligraphy to card art. The theme this year is based on people who lived in the area in the past – so watch out for the odd Saxon or Viking. Refreshments will be available at the Arts Cafe, plus the local pubs of course. Thanks to fundraising and sponsorship, all the events are free, but you may have to book in advance for some of the courses. Boaters are welcome, whether they are floating traders or visitors just wishing to enjoy and participate in the events. The concluding grand finale is an open-air concert and firework extravaganza on the canalside sports field below Bagnall Lock. ● More information and the full festival programme on www.alrewas-artsfest.co.uk
wWHAT’S
ON IN AUGUST
A canal photographic walk was a feature of the last Alrewas Arts Festival in 2016. PHOTO: WATERWAY IMAGES
If you want your event listed in our free monthly What’s On section email your entry to jrichardson@mortons.co.uk or use the events form at www.towpathtalk.co.uk/events. As always please check with organisers on the details of the event before setting out on your journey.
Until August 12
Merseyscapes Exhibition: Land/water/urban scenes in Liverpool by Anton Dolders. ABC L1, The Basement, 67-69 Victoria Street, Liverpool L1 6DE. www.artgallery. anton.co.uk
August 3-5
Tamworth Cruising Club: Boaters Weekend. Entrance fee £15 per boat includes weekend mooring, live entertainment on Saturday evening and fresh food to order. Contact Carol 01827 705306 or email carolyn. bannister1@hotmail.co.uk for forms or more info.
August 4
IWA Towpath Walks Society, London: Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and Bow Back Rivers. Starts Stratford tube station by ‘Newham London’ sign at 10.45am. Costs £10, £8 student/concs. Contact Roger Wilkinson 0203 612 9624.
August 5
Normous Newark Autojumble: Newark Showground, Newark NG24 2NY. Contact 01507 529430, exhibitions@ mortons.co.uk Day-Star Theatre: Roses & Castles day workshop at The Old Stables, Bottom Lock, Audlem, Cheshire CW3 0HA, 10am-4pm. £45. Contact Jane Marshall on 01270 811330, jane@day-star-theatre.co.uk or visit www. day-star-theatre.co.uk IWA Towpath Walks Society, London: Regent’s Canal: King’s Cross – Granary Square – Camden. Starts King’s Cross taxi rank at 2.30pm. Costs £10, £8 student/concs. Contact Roger Wilkinson 0203 612 9624.
August 7
The Classic Car & Cheshire Auto jumble ‘Passion for Power’: Tatton Park, Knutsford, Cheshire WA16 6QN. Contact 01507 529430, exhibitions@mortons.co.uk
August 19
Portsmouth Boat Jumble: Fort Purbrook, Portsdown Hill Road, Cosham, Portsmouth, Hampshire PO6 1BJ. Opens 10am, adults £4, children/parking free. Contact Chaddock & Fox Promotions, 02392 381405/07887 771451, boatjumbles@yahoo.com, www.boat-jumbles. co.uk Erewash Canal Preservation & Development Association: Sandiacre Lock Cottage open, 1.30-4.30pm. Admission and refreshments free, donations appreciated towards costs of opening cottages. Due to historic nature of cottages, disabled access is limited. Special openings can be arranged, contact Glyn Stenson 0780 925 1441, glynstenson@hotmail.com IWA Towpath Walks Society, London: Grand Union Canal: Little Venice and Paddington Green. Starts Paddington tube station, Bakerloo Praed Street exit at 2.30pm. Costs £10, £8 student/concs. Contact Roger Wilkinson 0203 612 9624.
August 25-26
Burnley Canal Festival: Free family festival in Sandygate Square and along towpath. www.burnleycanalfestival.org
August 26-27
August 8
August 27
IWA Shrewsbury & North Wales: Annual lock wind fundraising event at Hurleston Bottom Lock, Hurleston, Nantwich CW5 6BU. Volunteers welcome. More details from shrewsandnwales@waterways.org.uk
Erewash Canal Preservation & Development Association: Sandiacre Lock Cottage open, 11am-3pm. Admission and refreshments free, donations appreciated towards costs of opening cottages. Due to historic nature of cottages, disabled access is limited. Special openings can be arranged, contact Glyn Stenson 0780 925 1441, glynstenson@hotmail.com
August 28
Wurzel Bush Folk Club: Showcase. The Bulls Head, Coventry Road, Brinklow CV23 0NX, 8.30pm. The pub is a 15-minute walk from the Oxford canal and the folk club is popular with visitors from the canal. There is no admission charge but a collection is taken. www. wurzelbush.co.uk
North Kilworth Marina: Open day. www. northkilworthmarina.co.uk Wurzel Bush Folk Club: Meet on the Ledge. The Bulls Head, Coventry Road, Brinklow CV23 0NX, 8.30pm. The pub is a 15-minute walk from the Oxford canal and the folk club is popular with visitors from the canal. There is no admission charge but a collection is taken. www. wurzelbush.co.uk
August 18-19
August 29
August 14
Blisworth Canal Festival: Alongside the Grand Union Canal and sites around the Northamptonshire village. www.blisworthfestival.org
Active Saturday’, with arts and crafts, canoeing, ‘rampaging Romans’, rollerskating, archery, dancing and other activities, finishing with an evening concert and firework display. The Forth & Clyde Canal Society will be providing boat trips.
Wurzel Bush Folk Club: Bodgers Mate. The Bulls Head, Coventry Road, Brinklow CV23 0NX, 8.30pm. The pub is a 15-minute walk from the Oxford canal and the folk club is popular with visitors from the canal. There is no admission charge but a collection is taken. www.wurzelbush.co.uk
Grantham Canal Society: Half-hour boat trips on The Three Shires from Lock 18k, Woolsthorpe-by-Belvoir NG32 1NY, near the Dirty Duck pub between 10am-4pm. Adults £3, children £2. www.granthamcanal.org
August 10-11
THE annual Kirkintilloch Canal Festival takes place from August 20-26, featuring a diverse programme of events, writes Cicely Oliver. Southbank Marina, on the Forth & Clyde Canal, plays a major role in the festivities and will this year hold a ‘Get
August 21
Worcester Birmingham & Droitwich Canal Society: Summer walk around Earlswood Lakes. Meet at the car park, The Red Lion, Lady Lane, Earlswood B94 6AQ, 7.15pm. Contact Denis Pike 07870 939121, www.wbdcs. org.uk River Foss Society: A five-mile walk around Coxwold and Husthwaite. Meet Coxwold car park, 9.30am. Contact John Millett 01904 491290.
‘Romans’ and more at marina
River Foss Society: Evening four-mile walk around Kirkham. Meet at The Stone Trough pub car park, 6pm. Contact Anne Bednarski 01904 764086
Trips along the canal have proved a popular feature of previous Angel festivals.
Milestone for Angel Festival A POPULAR London canal festival that has been going for more than 30 years offers bags of fun both on the water and the towpath. The Angel Canal Festival is held around City Road Lock and City Road Basin on the Regent’s Canal and will feature live music, sailing, street theatre, kayaking, craft and food stalls, boat
Stalls will line the towpaths and surrounding streets. PHOTOS: JANET RICHARDSON
races, pirate ship, donkey rides, Punch and Judy, boat rally, sandcastles, boat trips, pearly kings and queens, seaside in the city, funfair and regatta. It takes place on Sunday, September 3, 11am to 5pm. This year is a milestone in the festival’s history as the management group which has always run the event has handed over organising responsibilities to the Canal & River Trust. It will be supported by Islington Boat Club, Angel Community Boat Trust and St Pancras Cruising Club and event volunteers, among others, with funding also being provided by Islington Council. Last year saw more than 8000 people visit the festival, which featured 70 stalls arranged along the towpath and surrounding streets. As well as businesses, many charities and local political parties took stalls to raise awareness, give advice and chat with the local community.
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The Stoke Bruerne Village at War 1940s weekend gets bigger every year. PHOTO SUPPLIED
Wartime Britain brought to life A PICTURESQUE village with the Grand Union Canal flowing through its centre will be the perfect setting for a ’40s weekend. Stoke Bruerne in Northamptonshire will go back in time to the days of the Second World War on Saturday and Sunday, September 8-9, 10am to 5pm, (with evening entertainment on the Friday and Saturday). This award-winning Village at War re-enactment weekend increases in size and popularity every year, due to its unique atmosphere, which sees living history groups and individual re-enactors combining with historic working boats to tell the story of life in wartime Britain.
Regular Forties tribute artiste Lola Lamour and George Formby lookalike Paul Casper will be joined this year by Perfect Vintage, Betty Bluebird, Ruzzit Buzzit, Sparky and Sprite, May Blossom, The Blitz Dancers and The Market Harborough Ukulele Band. The village hall will be hosting a tea dance with instruction in swing and jive, the church will be hosting a fashion parade, fields around the village centre will be filled with vintage markets, memorabilia, military and vintage vehicles and, weather permitting, the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight will be gracing the event with its presence. All of this will be presided
● For further information see www.friendsofcanalmuseum.org.uk
over by Winston Churchill, King George VI and Field Marshal Montgomery – with members of 1940s living history groups and re-enactors from all over the country creating that authentic wartime experience. For those arriving early on the Friday night, there will be a Forties sing-song and on Saturday evening for those staying on site, a swing dance at the village hall. Weekend passes are £10 (accompanied children under 16 are free) including parking and free entry to the Canal Museum. All surplus proceeds go to organisers Friends of the Canal Museum, a registered charity that supports the museum and its work.
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Museum reminder of ‘Mudlarks’ By Elizabeth Rogers
A FASCINATING reminder of the ‘Mudlarks’ who scavenged the River Thames in the 18th and 19th centuries is included in an exhibition at the Swinford Museum in the village of Filkins. These were usually men and young boys who roamed the muddy banks through London at low tide in search of anything of value they could sell. On display at the cottage museum, near Lechlade, Oxfordshire, is a pilgrim-style badge of the ‘Shadwell Shams’. These were fake treasures manufactured in an ingenious process by two of the Mudlarks – William Smith and Charles Eaton – known as Billy and Charley. They had made this into a profitable business, until their trickery was eventually exposed. Between 1856 and 1870, in Shadwell, they made artificial ‘antiquities’ using bad alloy and plaster-of-Paris, with an acid to produce the effects of age. Their objects sold well and even fooled expert archaeologists, despite the fact their design of a pilgrim badge (worn in the later medieval period by Roman Catholic pilgrims) was merely the reproduction of an everyday butter mould. Trouble intruded the smooth flow of their business when one of their dealers was accused
The Summer Triangle Orihime and Hikoboshi – a celestial love story By Brian Jones
A pilgrim-style badge of the ‘Shadwell Shams’ on display at the Swinford Museum. PHOTO: ELIZABETH ROGERS
in a magazine of selling fake goods. He sued the magazine and the subsequent publicity led to a boom in sales for Billy and Charley. They became more ambitious, introducing more elaborate designs and brass castings, branching out from selling only in London. But then a sewer hunter in Shadwell Dock gave their game away and in 1867 they were arrested in Windsor. Although they were released, their work now sold, in 1868, for only one penny – half the cost of production, when at its peak it had sold for an old half-crown (two shillings and sixpence). In 1870 Charley died from consumption, aged 35, in a tenement in Wellclose Square. That year, Billy was forced to admit the truth and nothing more was heard of him.
Vintage transport festival touches down at airfield ONE of the largest festivals of vintage transport in the country will take place on a former wartime airfield. The 44th annual Gloucestershire Vintage and Country Extravaganza will take flight at South Cerney Airfield, Cirencester, August 3-5, 10am to 5pm. It is staged by the Stroud Vintage Transport and Engine Club (SVTEC) and widely regarded as one of the biggest and best steam, vintage and countryside events in the UK, attracting thousands of exhibitors and visitors, while raising thousands of pounds for charities. More than £180,000 has been donated in recent years. The sprawling show site covers around 200 acres, with surprises around every corner, including: • Vintage displays of nearly 1000 classic cars from pre and post war, including more than 70 classic American cars, 30 visiting car clubs, 335 motorcycles and scooters, 80 bicycles from 1903 to 1980, 30 miniature steam engines, 90 stationary engines, 70 full-size steam engines, model engineering, 200 tractors, more than 70 buses and coaches, 130 military vehicles, 315 emergency and commercial vehicles, 70 industrial trucks, 50 vintage caravans and more than 50 model aircraft taking to the sky above. • Live arena with non-stop demonstrations • Vintage funfair • Cotswold Dog and Cat Home Dog Show • Countryside arena featuring displays from ferret racing, rare breeds, alpacas, shire horses, horse logging, reptiles and beehive making, to Morris dancing. New for this year is a vulture flying display • Children’s area • Trade stand village • Food and drink ‘pit stops’, including a vintage tea room with live music and Lindy Hop dancing performances • Jump4Heroes parachute display team • Free vintage bus rides around the showground on all three days. Chairman of SVTEC Martyn Slater said: “Our goal is to give the best value for money family day out in Gloucestershire, with something for all of the family to enjoy.” One of the beneficiaries has been the Cotswold Canals Trust who will also be on site. ● For further information or to purchase advance tickets visit www.glosvintageextravaganza.co.uk
BY NOW you have probably gathered that astronomy is really cool, with lots of stars and constellations to track down in the night sky. Taking yourself out on to the towpath to look at a clear night sky can be a fascinating process. And of course this is where we canal boat owners have an advantage, often finding ourselves moored well away from street lighting where the skies are darker than those we would see from a more urban location. Although at first the night sky seemed to be a jumbled-up mass of stars, the stargazers among you will have seen that many of these stars form patterns. We call these star patterns constellations, and there are a total of 88 spread across the entire night sky. Of course, we can’t see them all at once, each season presenting us with a different collection of stars, with autumn, winter, spring and summer all heralded by particularly prominent groups. Autumn nights reveal the legendary winged horse Pegasus, with the dark winter sky playing host to the mighty hunter Orion and spring evenings featuring the celestial lion Leo chasing the heavenly twins Gemini into the sunset. The evening skies of summer are dominated by the three constellations Lyra (the Lyre), Cygnus (the Swan) and Aquila (the Eagle), their brightest stars Vega, Deneb and Altair forming the large and very conspicuous pattern of stars known as the Summer Triangle. If you want to see the Summer Triangle, look high in the south eastern sky after the sun has set. The first star to appear will be the brilliant Vega, the brightest star in the constellation Lyra. Located halfway between Vega and the south-eastern horizon will be Altair, the leading member of Aquila. The triangle is completed by Deneb, the brightest star in Cygnus. Two of these stars feature in an old Japanese legend which tells of two lovers – the beautiful Orihime and the shepherd Hikoboshi. After their marriage, they began to neglect their work to be with each other. This angered the gods who punished the couple by sending them to opposite banks of the heavenly river. They are only allowed to meet on one night – July 7 – which is celebrated as a holiday by children in Japan.
Pearly glow
If you want to see Orihime and Hikoboshi, look high overhead after the sun has set. The first star to appear will be the brilliant Vega which, according to legend, represents Orihime. Halfway between Vega and the south-eastern horizon will be Altair which represents Hikoboshi. If the night is dark, clear and free of moonlight you may see the pearly glow of the heavenly river stretching between them, running from the northern horizon right across the sky and down towards the south. This heavenly river is in fact the Milky Way.
Our Sun is a member of a gigantic spiral formation of stars called the Galaxy. The faint misty band of light we see crossing the night sky is our view as we look down along the galactic plane, the Milky Way being formed from the combined glow of countless thousands of stars. Although the vast majority of the individual stars within the Milky Way are invisible to the naked eye, their combined light produces the faint luminous band we see spanning the heavens. The astronomers of ancient Greece identified the constellation Lyra with the lyre given by Apollo to the musician and poet Orpheus to accompany his songs. Deneb, whose name means ‘tail’ in Arabic, depicts the tail of Cygnus, a large, cruciform-shaped constellation which also bears the unofficial title of the Northern Cross. From Deneb the rest of Cygnus can be picked out easily, the swan’s outstretched wings and long neck prominent as it flies southwards along the
Milky Way. The area of sky around Aquila and Cygnus is rich in star fields and will repay sweeping with binoculars on really dark, clear nights. It’s quite a sobering thought that a large number of the constellations we see in the sky were witnessed and catalogued by astronomers thousands of years ago. In around AD150 the Greek astronomer Claudius Ptolemaeus, better know to us as Ptolemy, once (apparently) said: “Mortal as I am, I know that I am born for a day. But when I follow at my pleasure the serried multitude of the stars in their circular course, my feet no longer touch the earth.” He was inspired. Are you? Of course you are! So, now that the warm summer evenings are upon us, why not venture outdoors on to the towpath and check out the Summer Triangle? When you do, perhaps you can spare a thought for the two star-struck lovers Orihime and Hikoboshi. Happy stargazing!
A boaters’ guide to the River Weaver By Harry Arnold
CALLING in at the Anderton Boat Lift visitor centre recently we discovered an extremely useful leaflet produced by the River Weaver Navigation Society (RWNS). Apart from the latter’s name as a main title it has a major subtitle Boaters’ Guide – which is exactly what it is. Can you incorporate a guide to a whole navigation in a simple A4-size leaflet? Well, RWNS has proved that you can. Admittedly the navigable Weaver is a
short river but – unless you need one of the guides with, say, the whole history of Northwich – this colourful, clear and concise publication gives all the basic lock, bridge and mooring type of information you will need. Obtainable free at outlets, such as Anderton, on and around the Weaver it can also be fully downloaded from the society’s website – www.rwns. co.uk. You may need it if you are going to join the ‘2018 Salt Towns’ Rally – a cruise, with events, from Middlewich to Winsford, August 17-27. Details also on the RWNS website.
26 EVENTS ROUND-UP
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S / S Ninna.
O dd Boats at Hå verud. PHOTOS: ALISON ALDERTON
‘Odd Boats’ celebrate the 150th anniversary of Sweden’s Dalsland Canal BRITISH vessels were among the ‘Odd Boats’ which gathered in Upperud and Håverud during June to celebrate the Dalsland Canal’s 150th anniversary and the opening of the 2018 boating season. Created especially for the event, the Odd Boats fleet consisted of a diverse group of historical and unusual craft ranging from wooden motor cruisers to steam tugs, and were brought together to celebrate and promote the use of this beautiful waterway. Included was our own Towpath Talk reporter Alison Alderton and her husband, Roger Harrington, with their replica Dutch barge Lily. Built by Sagar Marine and dating from 1996, Lily is one of the earlier builds from the total number of 53 barges constructed by the company before they ceased trading. Lily had travelled to Sweden, over a number of years, via the Netherlands, Germany and Denmark. Representing both England and Ireland, Lily’s crew included members of the Inland Waterways Association of Ireland’s Athlone Branch and Cruising Club. Speaking to Towpath Talk, Roger Harrington said: “The response has been
The Danish-bu ilt Coronet house boat.
amazing. We have been visited by many people, all extremely interested not just in our barge but also in our home canals and waterways, and hungry for information about them. “It has been a pleasure to be part of this historic event, and promote the use of the Dalsland Canal, which is one of the most beautiful yet relatively still undiscovered waterways of the world. It may take some effort to reach but I can honestly say the Dalsland Canal is worth the journey. The welcome and hospitality received has been second to none.” From Scotland, in their 1963 motor cruiser, Alida, were Jim and Marjory Miller. Having spent the past few years exploring Europe, they arrived in Sweden last year as preparations for the anniversary events were taking shape and extended their stay to take part. The wooden carvel constructed Alida, measuring 12.2m in length and 3.7m beam, was built on the Thames. Talking to Towpath Talk, the couple said: “We have been really looking forward to this event over the winter months and are delighted to be part of it.”
Other craft included: Vijf Gebroeders (Five Brothers), a 15m long traditional Dutch Tjalk. Built in 1903 in Sneek, its owners had left the southern provinces of the Netherlands in early spring to reach the event. Wilhelmina, a 19m Dutch barge built in 1916 and now sailing in Sweden, was the largest boat in attendance, while Vera, dating from 1893, was the oldest. The 13.7m Vera was originally constructed as a steam launch but was converted to diesel operation in 1975. Also in attendance were: a lovingly restored Danish-built Coronet House Boat 33 of 1970 vintage which had been saved from the scrap heap and lovingly restored by her owners and Shangri-la, a beautifully preserved 1914-built river cruiser. Several steam tugs and small steam launches were also plying the waters throughout the weekend, among them, S/S Ninna, whose owner had hand built its triple expansion steam engine. Taking place in Håverud, which nestles at the foot of the famous aqueduct, the main Odd Boats event was held in conjunction with the Working Life Museums Day. Celebrating rural crafts and industries associated with the
S team boats gather for a tour of the lake at Hå verud
Jim and M arj ory M iller from S cotland with their wooden motor cruiser Alida.
Towpath Talk reporter Alison Alderton and her husband R oger Harrington with Beagle M aksi and their S agar replica Dutch barge Lily.
Canal director and event organiser Benny R uus.
Dalsland’ s lock keepers: reputedly the happiest in the world.
canal, its people, industries and boats, this included exhibitions and displays in rope and braid making, butter and cheese production, and spinning with flax. There was also a working array of old stationary oil engines driving various water pumps and electrical generators, and guided tours of the local hydroelectric power station on offer. The Canal Museum launched a new exhibition entitled ‘The dream of a canal.’ This focuses on the canal engineer Nils Ericson’s vision to provide shipping with a route through the gorge and across the waterfalls at Håverud by way of an aqueduct to enable shipping to reach Dalsland’s densely forested hinterland by water. The aqueduct and lock area at Håverud were made listed structures in 2013 and are the most visited tourist attraction in the Dalsland area. Over the winter the aqueduct underwent extensive preservation work, for which the Dalsland Canal Company has been awarded the Årets Industriminne 2018. This prestigious industrial conservation award is presented annually by the Swedish Industrial Memorial Association (SIM) which was
established in 1989 to operate for the industrial community's cultural heritage in Sweden and represents the country within the international organisation – The International Committee for the Conservation of Industrial Heritage (TICCIH). The Odd Boats are now touring the canal system, which stretches from Lake Vänern for some 250km to the Norwegian border. Their presence created an excited response in Håverud and kick-started a year of special celebrations, both on and off the water, which will culminate at the end of August when the Dalsland Canal is to be twinned with Scotland’s Crinan Canal. ● To find out more and see a full listing of the anniversary events visit: www.dalslandkanal.se The maximum dimensions for the canal are: Length 2 2 .7 5m Beam 4 .0 5m Draft 1.80 m Air draft 17 m
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SUMMER SPECIAL OFFER!* ~ 15% discount on all dry dock bookings & hull blacking made between 1st August & 30th September (Quote Towpath Talk) We have a full range of services available to satisfy our customers every need including:❖ Engine Maintenance ❖ New/Secondhand Brokerage ❖ Qualified Engineers
❖ Flexible Mooring Options ❖ Secure moorings ❖ Slipway & Dry Dock
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Everything you would expect from three quality Marinas
Berths currently available! Shepley Bridge Marina | Savile Town Wharf | Victoria Quays
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PORTLAND BASIN MARINA www.portlandbasinmarina.co.uk
SNOOPY
MISS SALLY
£33,000
£6,000
1989 - 59ft Trad stern narrowboat. Professional fit out by Peter Nicholls. 4 berth with separate shower and toilet (cartridge). It is currently laid out as a live aboard, with forward saloon including a multifuel stove, kitchen with separate hob and oven. BMC 1800 engine.
1971- 25.5ft Buckingham cruiser. 4 berths with cassette toilet and vanity basin. Kitchen with Calor cooker, dinette area which converts to bed, plus fixed forward berth. BMC engine with Enfield Z drive.
FACILITIES OFFERED AT PORTLAND BASIN MARINA
We were established in 2000 just in time for the grand opening of the Huddersfield Narrow Canal and have been offering a growing range of services to boaters since then. Our services include Dry Dock facilities and Day Boat hire. Some of our Current Services • Portland Basin Marina • BSS Examiner • Dry Dock • Engine and boat servicing/repair • Hull Blacking • Call out
• • • • • • •
Crane Diesel Calor Gas Pump out Elsan disposal point Chandlery Day Boats
• Dry Dock at Portland Basin MarinaPermanent and overnight mooring facilities with power and Wifi connection • Winter storage • Shower • Toilets
The most recent additions to our range of services are the secure moorings available at Droylsden Marina. We aim to continually improve and add to our services each year.
We now offer additional mooring facilities with power at Droylsden Marina.
Lower Alma Street, Dunkinfield, Cheshire SK16 4SQ
Tel: 0161 330 3133
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•
NORBURY WHARF Limited
Traditional boatyard, with traditional values
Idyllic moorings available now on the Shropshire Union Canal at Norbury Junction
The Wharf, NORBURY JUNCTION Staffordshire ST20 0PN Telephone: (01785) 284292 • E-mail: info@norburywharfltd.co.uk R C 10 scount or ook n s n Au ust an Se tem er 2018 l m te a a la l ty Below are some of the works that our experienced engineers can complete to a high standard:
• Pressure washing with 3000psi industrial pressure washer. • Hull blacking with Bitumen, International Intertuf 16 or two-pack epoxy. • Or we can apply a product supplied by yourself. • Repainting of counter bands.
• Sand/shot blasting and subsequent application of two-pack epoxy paint. • Repainting of gunwhale tops and sides. • Repainting of front return plates. • Anode replacement. • Stern gear refurbishment and replacement. • Skeg and rudder straightening.
• Skeg cup/bottom rudder bearing replacement. • Top rudder bearing replacement. • Propeller changes. • Surveys for Insurance and pre-purchase. • Hull plating and repairs. • Bow thruster repairs and installation.
iveaboards are elcome as access to the boat is provided b our speciall constructed brid e hich reaches out to either the bo or stern o our boat ree hoo up is provided hile the boat is out o the ater
MOORINGS AVAILABLE ern ht short term lon term an w nter moor n s a CHANDLERY AT UNBEATABLE PRICES.... 110 AMPH LEISURE BATTERIES FROM £74.95 each
a la le.
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TO VIEW O 1 RANGE OF UR BOAT FOR SALE S
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TOWPATH The UK’s Number O NE read
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1116 PPAAGGGEES N
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INA IN ATTEE RT
Issue 151,
TALK
FFRREE EE
May 2018
FREE A EE AT INT A TI AT N
ES
A AN ANA A ARA TER S TA ES NE SERIES ETS N T E T
Montgome milestonery
Cracker tows flyboat Saturn progress pr and eve down of course rse Cracke nts all along its 35- the entrance locks r’s s Chat on on page mile length. See feato the Montgomery 116 116.. PHOTO: ture startin Canal at W ERWAY WAT Fra g on pag IMAGES e 4, adverti nkton. This is a big yea sement on page 6 and r for the waterw ay’s restora leaflet ins REPAIR S erted wit tion with to o hin the pap the bre br ach Middlewich Mi h on the er.. er . and Bra nch of Union Can Un The presenc Th Shrrop o ops all were still the Sh psh shir e hire of ire bad ger dela as Towpat to be sched ssett etts y worrkk sstar ath at hT eduled tartting Talk Tal alk went to ing while s could also dist t “W “We o Survey urb pre the ess. wou ance licence ss. s ey info nec inforrma mattion Continued ion showed is obtained. essary confirm realld expect to be in a pos cubic met A Can on etre al t that page 3 hat ition res res istic & River Tru 2280 8000 told by tthe emban wa hed awa s of the emb was It is st spokes is believeed he end of budgets and timesca to ank Towpat km kmen entt was en at ath ayy and d that the and will nee Mayy,, but the most like “W can’t man our best esti Ma need stage give h Talk: “We – amounttin at the mo les was an increasthat d to to be re ly ting in ingg to more replaced an estima at mentt the ed flow ow of wat cause than th 200 lor te of timing this take six mo mate is that repairs men diffi lorrryy load er along would beincanal due to paddlesof s. It is £2-3 nths at a loads. the cult to do this with cos an any g left ope momen t of betwee million certainty at me t. ck ggate pen atess n.. This is thoat lock n overtop o launched ..” In the meantime CRT ught to ha ped the an have has whi fund the rep emergency appeal ch, together canal at the brea THE Can breach ch site to help anaall & Rive an air bill. with an emb err Tru ban Trust’ ank countt sho km k sst’s meen nt nt followin already sodden ws that thaatt licence s annual nat atio caused ngg a wet ion nal al boat ed the b is att its low eva winter, ban vassion THE Boat ankk to was lo est--eve ion er er, n on ash eve ev its Safe h aawa err leve waterw wayy.. wa level, holding upl, with way wa w 96.9% ays eme yss boaters usin ty Schem e has a blu to-d dat of boa ate b ts nt warnin Inte ncess (2017: ol engine teri ter rrim im exhaust fum g petrol m head of e licence g for in 7: 96.3%) b tin %). es in the boa ess – if you can sme ting Jon 108 boa on Hor b ts wer boa A RECORD gett out fast H sfall rrep ll t, kill k the f . A maj the engine( remo 3.96 million orted major ove o ved in werree unlicen e rem we or d from e(s) fr carb car s) mo com UK and re of 12 core on on monox CRT adults took es from Tw ssed waters as ed or in br oxid ox ide part in one e (CO) risk conditions bre b reac ach to the annual boating activities producing either big inboarrd h of its o . The or its tterms andthey Th figu d pet petro in 201 leth v gurres W ersports rol oll engines ess also cha han also paint ines ngin is the high Wat gingg num gas in second al volu m me ess Participatio 7, according number a picture of est e high berss of boa highl s, or om of the hly ly ly p CRT water CR b poi the oiso was first laun volume recorded sinc n Survey. This son engines nou outboa ouss erw ines steadily from oss os board way wa ss s the cou aays Lond ts acro rds ly incr ntry sslow increa don lowing:: up yss in Lon on hav easing CO s and other portabl increased,, ched in 2002. Boat owne this research pre havee see evio ev viou iou table s n growth . uss ttwo 2.4% 2.4%,, com e with more w in the wo boating sing ersh e ca cab 2016/17. Th ip par r e has in. than 690,000 ed to morre households and anothe seasons fou O Ove also verr the Thee Nor N th also err tw h than 9% in in the UK. boat-ow als saw own ow while oth had ad emergenc r people hav nin aw an incr in saw sa the larg Canoeing when engine-two ave av other e died died er area ar ass rem largeest ncy nc ease of 2.3% and motor g ine-ex y me medic remaaine exh dica hau ausstt gases ined all treatme boating boating and st increases and the d sstatic. , thro oug ugh wer w e aw h th the pop e awn wn inside nt strong. The stand-up paddleboard ularity of canal information open flaps of cockpit dra grow ing remains cov owtth see www.b ove ov ers h in sail rs. For safe sailin canal boating ow ing, oatsafetysch ers. g, mot motor ty or boa was eme eme.or ting described .orgg/co boaatbu /co attbuilders as exce excellentt newand Marine chie and hire boaatt compan llen s for f executive ies b Brit British ish Howard Prid by ding.
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C T M Narrowcraft Brokerage - Alvecote Marina - South Midland W.T. e
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Laughing Dog Boats Explore Britain’s beautiful canal systems with a great value long-term narrowboat occupancy ! Fully furnished ! Properly licensed and insured ! Equipped and ready for cruising
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Back to the boats for tea By Harry Arnold
The tree-lin ed marina has a series of channels of water running off a central waterway, with two entrances and exits on to the river. PHOTO SUPPLIED
New owners at Lechlade Marina
EXCITING times lie ahead for Lechlade Marina in Gloucestershire following its recent acquisition by new owners, Ian and Jules Lindsay. The couple have been encouraged by the warm reception they have already had from the loyal community of boaters who still moor at and use the 100-berth marina. Ian will use all of his 25 years of experience as a chartered surveyor managing private rural estates, on which he was responsible for the renovation of properties, the management of gardens and the rural environment and running diversification projects, to restore Lechlade Marina from its current unloved state to a place which offers a great place to moor a boat. Jules will use her 25 years of
experience as a book keeper and office manager to ensure customers get great service from a well-run business. “We aim to make Lechlade Marina a wonderful place to moor a boat, at the head of the navigable River Thames,” said Ian. Ian and Jules have exciting yet sensitive plans to restore the marina and business so that it offers great facilities for mooring narrowboats and cruisers on a long or short-term basis. Work will start with tidying up the marina, renovating the facilities building and improving security on the site and move on to bringing the water and electricity hook-ups up to modern standards. Future phases will include offering fuel sales, pump-out facilities and other boatyard services.
Ian and Jules also want to make much greater use of the slipway at the marina for trail boat, cruiser and small boat launching to enable greater access to the River Thames for a wider range of boat owners. “We aim to make Lechlade Marina a wonderful place to moor a boat, at the head of the navigable River Thames,” said Ian. Look out for future updates on the progress of the restoration. ● Ian and Jules Lindsay, Lechlade M arina Ltd, The M arina O ffice, Lechlade M arina, Downington, Lechlade G L7 3 DL Contact: 0 7 889 0 7 0 62 3 www.lechlademarina.co.uk
Footbridge in place to new car park at Mercia Marina A DISTINCTIVE £85,000 footbridge has been craned into place at Mercia Marina ahead of the opening of a new 200-space overflow car park this month. The new car park is on the opposite side of Findern Lane in Willington on the site of two fields already owned by the marina and is set to open in August. Staff who work at the marina and businesses based there will be able to use the overflow car park, which will be barrier controlled, during the week, freeing up space for visitors in the main car park. Visitors will be able to use the overflow car park at weekends. The new footbridge connects the overflow car park with a wildlife pond area on the same side of Findern Lane. Staff and visitors who use the overflow car park will go under Findern Lane by using the new footbridge to go over the water entrance to the marina and then go under Findern Lane.
The new footbridge is craned into position. PHOTOS SUPPLIED
The bridge crosses the water entrance into the marina. Robert Neff, general manager at Mercia Marina, said the new bridge was a welcome addition. “We are delighted with the new bridge which is a beautiful structure. “The planners wanted a ‘canal’ bridge so the designers sketched an asymmetrical humpback bridge with a towpath. It was intended to be made from wood but a lasting humpback bridge cannot be built from wood so the innovative bridge builders, CTS, came up with the idea of cladding the steel lattice work below the walkway in timber to produce the humpback bridge effect.” He added: “When the new car park opens, it will enable many more visitors to park for free and enjoy circular walks, activities, shopping and eating and our very busy free events such as the Makers’ Market and the Bandstand Busk.” The bridge and the new car park are the latest developments at the marina, which attracts 800,000 visitors a year.
DURING a recent return visit to Cheshire we called in again at Davenports Tea Rooms next to the Trent & Mersey Canal at Bartington Wharf and also a short walk up from the River Weaver at Acton Bridge. The multi-award-winning Alice in Wonderland tea room and shop was originally featured in Towpath Talk in May 2014 and is also a place where you can pick up your latest copy. Since our last visit Ian and Belinda Davenport have made a few changes, the most important of which are firstly – due to the popularity of the venue – they have changed the shop around to allow the enlargement of the tea room. There is an attractive extension to the main Alice Room, carried through in the same intimate Victorian style. The other big innovation is in effect ‘back to the boats’ for Belinda. She is a descendent of the family of Jonathan Horsefield Ltd, the well-known Runcorn-based Bridgewater Canal carriers, and her parents owned and ran Premier Narrowboats and the FMC Lapwing passenger boat business. They have bought a boat and – in the style of the tea rooms – are running
A stylish new extension to the Alice R oom provides extra tables at Davenports Tea R ooms.
PHOTO: WATERWAY IMAGES
Happy customers enj oy a V intage Afternoon Tea Cruise aboard narrowboat Duke. PHOTO: BELINDA DAVENPORT
Vintage Afternoon Tea Cruises on the adjacent canal. Just completing its first year of operation, the boat Duke is an 11-yearold Barry Hawkins replica working narrowboat with an unusual history. Built 60ft long, it was cut down to 47ft to cruise in Holland, where the Davenports bought it. Remarkably they found the original piece and extended it again. Contemporary cloths now cover the hold, which is also fitted with a long table and comfortable leather seats. This is the 80th year of Davenports trading in Northwich and bar a short gap, 178 years of Belinda’s family trading on the canals, so they made the excuse to celebrate by taking Duke via the Liverpool Link and into the city to the Tall Ships, Mersey River Festival and Northern Boat Show weekend, a new trip for them and the boat. As they weren’t allowed by CRT to run trips it was more of a holiday than business but Belinda said it was very enjoyable. Details of the new afternoon teas afloat and those of the Tea Rooms and Farm Shop are on davenportsfarmshop.co.uk, including the menus. As we’ve said before, read them and drool. Advance bookings on 01606 853241 are often advisable.
Getting people through the gate THE benefits of running an annual open weekend are crystal clear according to Paul Lillie, general manager of Pillings Lock Marina in Leciestershire, which has been hosting an event since 2015. He said: “We all want to know how to get our waterside business on the map and not only is this the essential ingredient in kickstarting the summer season for your venue, but it has many other benefits. “Like motivating the team, inciting you to tidy your site, fix up the fleet and do those jobs you’ve been meaning to get to all winter. A deadline is a good thing and this type of event gives you one.” The marina’s recent open weekend had free activities including boat rides and parking. “It gets people through the front gate and then it’s all down to your team to give them a great experience,” Paul continued. “Making your own event coincide with a waterway
O pen weekend at Pillings Lock M arina. focus weekend, such as Crick Boat Show, gives this weekend even more profile nationally. “Rarely do clients go to Crick for more than one day and putting on a local event at your marina, boatyard or hire base gets people to spot you in a period of time when they are specifically thinking about boating. “If you didn’t put on an event this year, do it. You won’t regret it. Our phone has not stopped ringing since we packed the balloons away...”
Paddle sports on the R iver S oar. PHOTOS SUPPLIED
68 BOAT REVIEW
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Shropshire Maid j oins the L y neal T rust’ s fleet Phil Pickin takes a look inside the charity’s new holiday boat.
IT DOESN’T seem just over a year ago that Shropshire-based Lyneal Trust launched its then newest narrowboat, Shropshire Lady, but apparently it is. However, this visit to the canalside charity’s base was greeted with sunshine when I paid a visit to see the addition of a new holiday narrowboat. The Lyneal Trust provides canalbased recreational facilities for people with disabilities, vulnerabilities or recovering from illness. The facilities on offer are for the sufferers, their families, friends and carers beside the Llangollen Canal in North Shropshire, not far from Ellesmere. And with the arrival of Shropshire Maid, they now have two holiday boats, a day boat and canalside accommodation. Built in Stoke by the Stoke-on-Trent Boat Building Company, the Shropshire
The galley is fitted with a domestic cooker, fridge and microwave all topped off with a worktop supplied and fitted by a local firm. PHOTOS:
PHIL PICKIN UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED
A light and bright living area with bench seating that can convert into a double berth and a large central table.
Maid was launched in March and is a 70ft new build borrowing many of the specialist features incorporated in Lady, but with some significant additions. Built to accommodate up to six people, Maid has been designed to provide easy use and access by wheelchair users, however, the trust is keen to point out that the available services are not exclusive to wheelchair users. Anyone with medical or mental health conditions that make them vulnerable, disabled or recovering from a serious illness can book their boats and cottages. Even those who have been diagnosed as being terminally ill can make use of the trust’s facilities in this peaceful location. After all, the trust’s motto is ‘making memories’ and that's the main objective of these boats and those who operate them. Maid has been designed and built to provide specialist facilities including a bathroom that complies with the ‘Accessible Homes’ standards for buildings. Skylights and the size of the windows have not only been designed to allow the great views of the passing countryside but also to make the interior as light as possible. The welldeck has a large wheelchairfriendly area that can be opened up on fine days and on the 12+ft cruiser stern there is ramp access to both sides and a lift to enable access for wheelchair users, or passengers with impaired movement. All parts of the boat and its operation are available to all users, and those in a wheelchair can travel down the entire length of the boat and turn round, such has been the attention to detail. As well as the modern wet room, the boat has a disabled toilet and is, as you would expect, fully central heated, with a modern galley, which is part of the saloon and dining area, and a TV, radio and DVD player fitted near the seating area.
Each berth has its own reading light.
This large wheelchair- friendly area can be opened up on fine days. The Shropshire Maid was named recently by S ir Algernon and Lady Jane Heber- Percy. PHOTO SUPPLIED When you access the boat, via the lift or the removable steps, you enter a cool and pale-coloured interior with bunks to one side. These bunks are fitted with MRSA resistant mattresses and each berth has its own reading light. The wardrobe and second ‘crew toilet’ are accessed from the main corridor and have been fitted with door handles that are easy to use by those suffering from ailments like arthritis, again highlighting the attention to detail. The walkthrough washroom is huge and, as has been mentioned earlier, been equipped to the standard expected when fitting out a domestic bathroom for use by a disabled person. Well-placed wash basins, easy-access shower cubicle and well-placed grab rails are all fitted to help those using the room. The galley is fitted with a domestic cooker, fridge and microwave all topped off with a worktop supplied and fitted by a local firm, such is the level of local support for the work of the trust. The galley area leads into a very light and bright living area that can convert into a double berth. With bench seating
The huge walkthrough washroom with easy- access shower cubicle and well- placed grab rails.
and a large central table it makes this a modern room in which to socialise. With two large glass hatches in the roof and a number of equally large windows the room isn’t short of daylight, and with a white T&G ceiling, the trust has achieved its aim of making the interior as bright as possible. Finally, you come into the welldeck which has been designed with benches surrounding the area and sufficient room for a wheelchair user to sit and be able to comfortably see out as the world drifts by. With the covers lifted the area makes the outside world very accessible and, so I’m told, with the boat under way all you hear, when sitting this far forward, is the sound of the water under the hull. The aim of the trust is to provide holidays and breaks to those who would otherwise struggle to enjoy this type of holiday and to do so at a lower cost than on a conventional narrowboat. Bookings for Shropshire Maid are already being made and these are usually for either one or two weeks, and if the weather we enjoyed during the visit is to continue, no doubt the bookings will continue. The trust's plan is for the boats to be renewed every 15 years, and at around seven years the boats get a refit, something Shropshire Lass is currently undergoing. Shropshire Maid isn’t a traditional narrowboat. She’s modern and designed to provide those needing a break, and their families or carers, a very comfortable and safe environment to enjoy a holiday or short break, and by the looks of it, that’s what they will get. It’s great to see the facilities being integrated in a way to provide a comfortable living space for everyone, regardless of their condition. I’m sure that in doing so the trust will be able to make good on their aim to allow visitors to ‘make memories’. Good ones too!
SPEC SHEET Length: 70ft Engine: Beta 43 Washroom: To Accessible Homes standard. Toilets: Macerator. Inverter: Victron 3000 Interior: MRSA resistant upholstery, T&G roof lining, painted walls with ash trim. Electrical system: LED lighting, powered lift, 13A sockets with USB chargers. Heating: Webasto. Cooker: Thetford Caprice. Cost: £141,000 O perated by: Lyneal Trus www.lyneal-trust.org.uk
The 12 + ft cruiser stern has ramp access to both sides and a lift to enable access for wheelchair users.
The welldeck has benches surrounding the area and sufficient room for a wheelchair.
PRODUCTS & REVIEWS 69
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Books, DVDs and other items for possible review should be sent to: Towpath Talk, PO Box 43, Horncastle, Lincs LN9 6LZ editorial@towpathtalk.co.uk
New guide shows canal history in the making
From London to the sea
THE restoration story of the Wey & Arun Canal has been brought bang up to date in a new publication. A Guide to Restoration Progress on the Wey & Arun Canal provides a fascinating insight into the restoration work on the canal from the 1970s to the present day, and is sure to appeal to anyone interested in the canal and those who wish to know more about it. This fully revised edition charts the progress of the canal’s restoration in West Sussex and Surrey, including the very latest projects. The 56-page booklet features 10 maps of the canal and extensive details of the restoration work, along with both archive and more recent photographs. The guide was last updated in 2014 and this new edition for 2018 includes recent projects such as the completed Compasses Bridge. It demonstrates the huge amount of restoration work the Wey & Arun Canal Trust has achieved over the 23-mile canal. The 2018 guide, edited by Julian Cheek and Geoff Thomas, costs £6 and is available online at www. weyarun.org.uk/shop/, or from the Loxwood Canal Centre (High St, Loxwood, West Sussex RH14 0RD, tel: 01403 753999, open Tuesday to Sunday, 11am to 4pm).
Review: Elizabeth Rogers
AUTHOR Rachel Lichtenstein is well qualified to write an account of a journey out of the Thames Estuary. As a child she lived at Southend-on-Sea and played and swam in these waters and as a writer and artist has carried out much research into historical aspects of the City of London and its environs. As part of her research for Estuary – Out from London to the Sea she joined the crew of the Ideaal, an immaculately refurbished Thames sailing barge, the permanent residence of a young couple and their dog. She joined them at Hermitage Moorings just east of London Tower Bridge for a fiveday experimental cruise with a mixed crew that included an archaeologist, visual artists, a musician, a film-maker and an ornithologist. They were all taking part in a multi-disciplinary arts project. The extent of the Thames Estuary encompasses a vast area of more than 800 nautical square miles. It starts from a zone east of the river around Tower Bridge and stretches up to Clacton-on-Sea in Essex and down to Whitstable in Kent. The most widely accepted point of where the River Thames emerges into the estuary is the seaport of Gravesend-on-Sea – its historic gateway. It includes tributaries and islands such as that of Mersea, off the Essex coast, and creeks. Two stones, one on the Essex and one on the Kent shore, marked the end of the City of London’s jurisdiction over the Thames. These are the Crow Stone just off Chalkwell Beach in Essex and the London Stone which is at the entrance to the Kentist Yantlet Creek on the Isle of Grain. Together they mark the ends of the imaginary Yantlet Line which as well as marking the limits of the river is the boundary between London and Essex. In the 18th century they were the sites of ceremonies involving City of London officials
Interactive map brings history to life A COMPREHENSIVE guide has been created by Insure4Boats, in partnership with the Canal & River Trust, to help tourists navigate the hugely popular UK waterways system this summer. The History of the Waterways depicts how the nation’s canals have changed over the past century across England and Wales, showcasing the invention of modern technology and engineering. Archivist John Benson from the National Waterways Museum in Ellesmere Port has given his commentary on each canal hotspot. He said: “As someone who loves the canals and has an interest in labour and industrial history and has benefited from pounding the towpaths all my life I’m pleased, on behalf of the Canal & River Trust, to have a connection to this project.” As many of these canals and hotspots are still in working use, visitors can explore not only national history spots but also enjoy watching the boats cruise by as they navigate the intricate waterways system. The canal cruising season runs all year round, but the sunny weather is the perfect time for visitors to explore all the wonders of the waterways. A busier period for boats to be on the locks,
visitors have more opportunities to experience the waterways first hand while also potentially trying their hand at the lock themselves. Each canal detailed on the map also includes a selection of recommended activities within close proximity, providing visitors with an easy guide to aid in planning their trip. The Insure4Boats interactive map showcases navigable points of interest including locks, boat lifts, tunnels, aqueducts, ports, wharfs and basins across Britain with historical imagery dating back to 1900. Present-day imagery
allows for a heritage-rich snapshot into the changing appearance of the canal network over the past 100 years. Some of the key points of interest the website explores include the Bow locks in London, the Caen Hill Flight, Shardlow canal port, Dudley Canal tunnels, Marple aqueduct and the Bingley Five Rise. To find out more information on each point of interest around the UK, visit the full History of the Waterways: https:// w w w . i n s u re 4 b o a t s. c o. u k / historyofthewaterways
and a procession of steamboats. Aboard these were the Lord Mayor, aldermen, bailiffs and water bailiffs. The ceremonies were watched by great crowds of people. At high tide they drank a toast: ‘God preserve the City of London’, at both stones. At low tide it was the turn of the public to be entertained by such ‘serious’ traditions as the local sheriff being ‘respectfully bumped’ against the stone by the watermen and awarded the Freedom of the Water. Such lighter aspects of estuary history are part of an extensive coverage of shipping trade and, nowadays, leisure activities, on the estuary. Any unfamiliar terms are explained in a useful glossary – running from Bawler, a type of fishing boat used for shrimping to Yawing, twisting or oscillating about a vertical axis. Estuary – Out from London to the Sea is published by Penguin, price £9.99, paperback 328 pages. ISBN: 978-0-141-01853-9
Keeping the traditional skills of the waterways alive Reviewer: Janet Richardson
HAVING watched members of the Boaters Craft Group from the National Waterways Museum, Gloucester, demonstrating their skills at Braunston Historic Boat Rally – see report of the event on page 4 – I was delighted to peruse Canal Crochet, Bonnets & Belts which landed on my desk a few days later. Published by the recently renamed Waterways Museum Society (formerly the Boat Museum Society) it is available from the Canal Book Shop at Audlem Mill. Authors Ann Gardiner, Sarah Pressland and Mary Parry explain the origins of the crafts involved: the crochet which adorned boats’ cabins, the bonnets worn by the boatwomen and the boatmen’s spiderweb belts. As well as a beginner’s guide to crochet work, there are detailed patterns and instructions on how to make all three with a collection of the different cabin crochet designs including the pattern used by Rose Skinner, who with her husband Joe operated Friendship – now on static display in the National Waterways Museum at Ellesmere Port. Variations are named after canalside villages along the Shropshire Union Canal and
include Stanney, Stoke, Caughall, Backford and Mollington. There is also a porthole crochet pattern – Sue’s Spider’s Web – produced by Sue Constable and first published by Sarah and Paul Chanin and the Joan Turpin Collection – a book of patterns dedicated to the memory of Joan, who was a regular volunteer whose work was used in boats at the museum. Charted by Ann Gardiner from original samples worked by Freda Cooper, they include curtain tiebacks, shelf-edging strips and ticket drawer pieces. These range in difficulty
from Emma and Lucy which are classed as easy to the more complex Selina and Agnes designs. For anyone wishing to help preserve these skills or wanting to make a gift which could become a family heirloom, this guide could be just the inspiration they need. The Waterways Museum Society book of Canal Crochet, Bonnets & Belts by Ann Gardiner, Sarah Pressland and Mary Parry (70 pages, softback, £12.95) is available from the Canal Book Shop, Audlem Mill Ltd, 01270 811059, info@audlemmill.co.uk ISBN: 978-0-9955180-5-6
70 GARDENING/RECIPE
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Gar de ning afloat in A ugust More topical tips from Lee Senior WE ARE in the height of summer and our flower power is at its peak. To maintain our vibrant displays, continue to water and feed regularly as well as dead-heading spent flowers. If you are growing dahlias they’ll likely need staking as they can start to become a little top heavy now. It is a similar story with lilies. When plants are grown in containers they are more prone to wind damage as the roots cannot anchor themselves as they do in the garden. Lavender makes a great feature in a container for both humans and insects alike! After flowering ends, it is a good idea to cut back the plants fairly hard. This will stop them becoming woody and leggy, a common problem with older specimens. If Sweet Williams are your thing, it is time to sow some seed now for a good display next year. They are easy to grow and come in many different colours, ranging from white, through to pink and various shades of red. In the veg garden, if you fancy a few delicious new potatoes for Christmas dinner, now is the time to plant them. Grow them in a similar way as the summer-grown types. Suitable varieties include Charlotte or Nicola. They can be bought via mail order and planted in
This month’s seasonal recipe from Anna Pettigrew
Tomato and chickpea summer stew Serve this mouthwatering Mediterranean stew with crusty bread or couscous for a fuss-free dinner. SERVES 4 Preparation time: 20 minutes Cooking time: 35 minutes
S ummer colour: a fl oating English country garden at last year’ s IWA Festival of Water. PHOTO: JANET RICHARDSON
August or early September directly into good-sized containers full of rich compost when they arrive. There is no need to chit them first. Feed with a general purpose liquid feed when growth emerges. When autumn comes, protect from frost with fleece. Although yields are not as high as in summer, there should be enough to harvest fresh on Christmas morning.
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½ butternut squash, diced 1 leek or onion, chopped 4 cloves of garlic, minced 400g/13oz cherry tomatoes 1 tin chickpeas 400g/13fl oz tomato passata A handful black olives A small bunch fresh oregano, leaves picked ● 2 tbsp pine nuts, toasted ● Salt and pepper ● Olive oil for frying Pre-heat your oven to 200C/fan 180C/ gas 6. Coat the butternut in a glug of olive oil and a pinch of salt. Place on a baking tray and roast in the oven for 20 minutes. Meanwhile heat a splash of olive oil in a frying pan on medium-low heat. Cook the leek and garlic for around five minutes until soft. Add in the chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, olives, oregano and tomato passata, stir to combine. Season with a little salt and pepper, pop a lid on and turn the heat down low. Now add the butternut squash to the pan and season again if needed. Serve with pine nuts on top. For more of Anna’ s seasonal recipes see our sister title Kitchen Garden. To take advantage of a special subscription offer of three for £ 5 plus 2 0 free packs of seeds followed by £ 2 0 for six issues, call 0 150 7 52 952 9, q uoting K G 160 , or visit classicmagazines.co.uk/ kg160
Pearls of wisdom at RHS Chelsea By Helen Gazeley
M embers of the G nosall Towpath R estoration group ( G TR ) , their guests and a passing boat crew admire the new herb garden below The Navigation Inn. PHOTOS: WATERWAY IMAGES
A decorative herb bank beside the canal By Harry Arnold
GNOSALL is one of the prettiest and handiest Staffordshire villages – for its range of services – to visit on the main line of the Shropshire Union Canal. The ‘G’ is silent of course, as we learned when first passing through, then subsequently lived nearby and shopped there regularly in the 1960s. It has a lively local community and my wife Beryl and I need no persuading to revisit. So we were particularly pleased to be invited to the recent unveiling of a new information board and decorative herb bank below The Navigation Inn. This is the work of the Gnosall Towpath Restoration group (GTR), who report to the parish council and have adopted the length of canal in the village. During another of this spring’s perfect Sunday mornings, guests watched Canal & River Trust chief executive Richard Parry unveil the really useful information board and heard him speak of the contribution of GTR and other voluntary groups to the well-being of the waterway. Also, to admire the herb bank which – although newly planted – was already looking good. The ceremony was preceded by a towpath walk, during which guests learned about some of the canal history and features of the village. Gnosall has an annual ‘G-fest’ and next year as part of this it will be holding a ‘C-fest’, devoted to the waterway, on July 19-21, 2019. There will be historic boat displays, trade boats, live music at
WATER and pollution preoccupied two of the designs at RHS Chelsea in May. The Pearlfisher’s Garden, designed by John Warland and awarded Gold, was topped by a life-sized figure of a woman diving for pearls. Made of recycled plastic, she represented our positive relationship with the oceans while, beneath her, visitors were invited ‘underwater’ where aquatic tanks filled with fish and water plants were surrounded by cacti and succulents representing the increasing ‘desertification’ of the ocean bed. The garden underlined Pearlfisher’s ethos encouraging manufacturers to ‘lightweight’ the lifecycles of their packaging and products to reduce waste.
The Pearlfisher’ s G arden reminded visitors of the problem of plastic pollution in our oceans.
M etal grilles allow rainwater to be stored in underground troughs to reduce run- off and the need to water. PHOTOS: HELEN GAZELEY
“Design ideas and creativity can solve some of the most pressing problems facing the planet,” said Jonathan Ford, CEO of design agency Pearlfisher. “We need to rethink waste well up the stream of production, so the consumer isn’t given the guilt.” Urban Flow, sponsored by Thames Water whose region is classed as water-stressed by the Government, and designed by former RHS Young Designer of the Year Tony Woods, presented ideas on water conservation to prevent run-off from gardens into sewers. Elements included permeable paving, cast-iron grates set in the ground over bottomless troughs, and plants chosen for their ability to withstand unpredictable weather conditions. “This shows how you can capture rain and reduce the amount of water needed,” said Tony. “Any excess water goes through into the holding tank under each grille and is slowly released through compact gravel and sand into the beds.” RHS Chelsea’s new Space to Grow garden category aimed to present ideas that visitors could take away to employ in their garden at home and Urban Flow not only won Gold, but Best in Category.
CR T chief executive R ichard Parry unveils the new G nosall information board watched by, from left, CR T regional waterways partnership member Campbell Boyle ( also G nosall resident and occasional G TR helper) , G TR members Chris HuttonAshkenny, Clive Carthy and Barry Witts, S hropshire U nion Canal S ociety ( S U CS ) council member and S hrewsbury & Newport Canal Trust representative John M yers and S U CS j oint Cuttings editors Carol and R od Hamilton- K ing. the three participating pubs, a waterways quiz, historic walks, talks and exhibitions and local canal society participation. Details, as they progress, will be available by emailing cfest.gnosall@gmail.com. Looks like we will be heading for Gnosall again next year.
FOOD & DRINK 71
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FOOD & DRINK staurants Canalside pubs & re.. to satisfy all tastes.
The historic Barley Mow was originally built in 1352. PHOTOS SUPPLIED
Follow in the three men’s footsteps By Elizabeth Rogers
Food on the cut now being served Open for business beside the Llangollen Canal. By Phil Pickin
THERE would definitely seem to be a growing trend towards floating businesses and when you link this to the move towards healthy eating and food provenance, it’s no surprise that the latest enterprise has gone down well with boaters and towpath users alike. And in less than a year, David Atkins and Emma Caldwell have found that offering good quality takeaway food to passing customers has proved popular along the Llangollen Canal, especially during the recent hot weather. The foodie pair, both of whom are new to the waterways, decided to escape the rat race, sell up and move on to a 37-year-old, 55ft narrowboat bought especially to allow them to live aboard and to start a new business. Emma already had experience of running a food-based business so put this knowledge and background to good use in this new venture. Like most good ideas the concept is simple. The couple serve takeaway food to customers who, if they want, can sit at the tables and chairs they set up just off the towpath, or they can take away tea, coffee, filled flatbreads, cakes of many different varieties and meringues. It’s also good to see that the pair are also keen to source as much of their produce as possible from local suppliers. Every day they buy new supplies locally with some of their meals being supplied in biodegradable sugarcane-based wrapping and drinks in traditional mugs to help reduce waste. Even some of the spoons and stirrers used are wooden, great to see at a time when we all need to reduce our use of plastic. David and Emma are focusing their efforts on the Llangollen Canal and can be found at various locations, details of which can be found on their Facebook page. The couple are also looking to offer ‘dinner on the canalside’ when, for a fixed price, guests can enjoy a three-course meal beside the canal all prepared in the galley of their 55ft boat. This entire venture is no mean achievement for Emma in particular who, for a long time, suffered from a fear of going aboard a narrowboat. So to have overcome this fear enough to not only live on board but to also work from the same boat is commendable. The boat itself was refitted six years ago and boasts a Lister three-cylinder air-cooled engine but few other features that would, today, be seen as usual and expected – these include an inverter. Despite this, the solar panels are doing a good job keeping the boat well supplied with
Loving their new life: David Atkins and Emma Caldwell. PHOTOS: PHIL PICKIN power and reducing the need to run the engine or the generator. This enterprising couple also sell items such as dog treats, mugs and home-made bowls to visitors to their boat. The bowls are unique as they are made from papier-mâché – derived from old copies of Towpath Talk! These are then decorated with wrapping paper, with the result being handy lightweight bowls that would seem to be proving popular with visitors. David and Emma are loving their new life and their new venture as it provides them with the opportunity to enjoy the lifestyle and to meet new people all without leaving home – almost! So if you are in the area and would like to find out where they are currently moored, search Facebook for Atkins & Em.
VISITORS who make their way to Barley Mow Inn because of its association with Jerome K Jerome’s famous tale will find even more of interest when they arrive and see the inn in real life. The trio in Three Men and a Boat made a stop at the inn, which sits beside the River Thames at Clifton Hampden, near Abingdon in Oxfordshire. A historic building of cruck construction, dating back to 1352, it is indeed a real ‘olde worlde’ pub, says landlord Chris Long, who with his wife Andrea took over as managers three years ago. “It has all the original beams, and the layout has been little changed,” he said. So taller customers might find themselves occasionally having to duck their heads when walking beneath one of the beams. Being beside the river, the Barley Mow is an ideal place at which to make a stop en route of a river journey. Although the pub does not have accommodation, it has the convenience of moorings being available beside The Bridge Camp Site. On an outside wall of the Barley Mow there is a quotation from Three Men In a Boat, referring to the visit there of the famous three – plus Montmorency the dog – on that Victorian holiday, back in 1889. The doors of the Barley Mow open from 11.30am to 11pm six days a week and from noon to 10.30pm on Sundays. Light snacks are available throughout the day, and a full a la carte menu is served from noon to 9.30pm.
Large garden
As well as ‘seasonal specials’ such as game and venison, fish dishes are also regularly on the menu. Roast lunches are served on Sundays. The pub enjoys catering for families and this includes their dogs who are welcome in the bar area, which adjoins the restaurant. There is a large garden, which overlooks the river. For the children there is a special menu, from which they can be sure to find their usual choices of fish fingers or sausage and mash. Tea, coffee and soft drinks are available all day.
Rose
Crown
Inside the dining room. The bar always stocks as many as three different real ales, some of which are brewed locally. A feature of the historic nature of the Barley Mow is its open fires, often a welcome sight even on a cool spring or summer day. As well as welcoming its many literary-minded visitors, both those who come by boat and come by road, it has many who are tourists, often from overseas and who may be staying in Oxford to see its own historic buildings. They like to come to see what they can regard as a real ‘chocolate-box’ type of village – as Chris described Clifton Hampden. “It has the four main essentials that a village needs – a shop, post office, the pub and a historic church,” he says. This was restored during the Victorian period by the renowned architect George Gilbert Scott who also masterminded the restoration of the seven-arched bridge over the river which has been described as one of the most attractive along the River Thames. The village has a number of half-timbered and thatched cottages, and Jerome K Jerome described Clifton Hampden as: “A wonderfully pretty village, old-fashioned, peaceful and dainty with flowers. The river scenery is rural and beautiful.” The Barley Mow is a busy pub, with a staff of 30 to cater for both its visitors and the local community, including these from neighbouring villages who enjoy its fare. The Barley Mow, Clifton Hampden, Abingdon, Oxfordshire OX14 3EH. Contact 01865 407847 www.chefandbrewer.co.uk
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Traditional waterside pub and restaurant a n Street
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Tel: 01509 842240 E: roseandcrownzouch@gmail.com
A warm welcome awaits you with our Traditional home cooked, locally sourced menu or ull menu details please visit our ebsite Just a 3 minute walk from Beeston Marina
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HO LIDAYS BOATING
Canal breaks and river cruising in the UK, Ireland and Europe
Try before you buy
HAVE you ever dreamed of living on the water for a while or would you like to try living on a boat before you decide whether to buy your own? From November 2018 to March 2019 Star Narrowboat Holidays will run its boat Gloria for a continuous, static hire. The boat will be based on its linear mooring at the Bridgewater marina/Boothstown Basin (nine miles by road from Manchester city centre). Gloria is set up for comfortable winter living; it has central heating and a solid fuel stove. There is outdoor space just near the boat and a car park at the marina. If you are thinking of buying your own boat, it might be
an idea to try spending the most challenging months on a narrowboat with the security of knowing everything is set up correctly and someone is on call should you need anything. Star Narrowboat Holidays has been in operation since 2012. Owner and manager Hester
Cox runs a tight ship with her two holiday boats Gloria and Queenie. She operates all year and also keeps the same hire prices all year. “It’s not that winter is an uncomfortable time to be on a boat, it’s just that you have a bit more to think about, like ‘Have I got the coal in?’ and ‘I need to fill the water tank before it gets dark,’” said Hester. “And doing this for the first time on a boat which is well set up for winter living and having someone on call just in case can be a good way to try boat life out.” The static hirer who stayed in 2016 bought (and now lives on) her own boat immediately after finishing her hire aboard Gloria and last winter’s hirer
Set up for winter living with central heating and a solid fuel stove. PHOTOS SUPPLIED Charlotte loved living on the boat. She wrote this: “I lived aboard Gloria over the winter months until March this year. I was ready to live on my own for the first time and I’ve always wondered what life would be like on a narrowboat. I’ve made so many good memories and this has been the best year of my life so far! It’s amazing how just a few months can change your life. “Hester has transformed Gloria into a beautiful, contemporary home. I didn’t Inside Star Narrowboat Holidays’ vessel Gloria.
Moored on the Bridgewater Canal at Boothstown.
need to add anything to make it feel homely. Everyone at the marina was so welcoming. I felt safe and I got to know the local area quite quickly.” She added: “I was never too cold and it was so peaceful at night. I loved waking up to see swans outside my bedroom window. I worked in the city centre, so I had the best of both worlds.” This static hire is available for the full duration for one person only. This will be the fourth year running that Hester has successfully offered static hire throughout the winter months. She added: “I made the decision when I first started the business and formulated my prices that I would keep the same price all year – it feels right to do that. Even though it costs me more to send a boat out in the colder months, I’d rather stick to my fairer pricing stance.”
A welcome sight on a winter’s day. ● The price for this static hire is £895 pcm. If you are interested in the November 2018 to March 2019 hire get in touch with Hester at Star Narrowboat Holidays by email info@ starnarrowboatholidays. co.uk or call +44 (0)79 444 04 227.
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Filming the canals Nigel Stevens of Shire Cruisers is this month’s contributor to a new series from Drifters – a consortium of independent self-drive hire boat companies set up to promote enjoyment of canal holidays. DRIFTERS hire boat consortium exists to say ‘yes’ to difficult things, so we have done a lot of TV work. The first step is to listen carefully to what often starts as a vague proposal. Some suggestions are easy to decline, for example those which set up conflicts between participants. Others need a lot more thought, to understand what the producer wants to achieve. The actual filming time is always very short, and the distance to be
covered usually unachievable in the time. So it may be that multiple boats are needed, or that boats move rapidly between locations while the film crew are off somewhere else. Then comes the tricky question of ‘when’. Boats have to be reserved, and crews organised, so when the presenter suddenly changes his or her availability, chaos must rapidly be averted. Come the actual filming time and everything settles down.
Great Canal Journeys presenters Prunella S cales and Timothy West filming on a S hire Cruisers narrowboat. PHOTO SUPPLIED Film crews are adept at forming good working relationships, so the boat crew quickly learns what’s expected – yells of ‘keep down’ get the crew lying on the floor as the presenter sails past the camera, apparently in sole charge of the boat. Yes,
presenters have rapidly to be taught how to steer; some think they know already… The most recent production Drifters has been involved with was Building Britain’s Canals with Dan Brown. Foxhangers, Kate Boats and
Shire Cruisers provided boats. We’ve also made many episodes of Great Canal Journeys and Barging through Britain. And on a smaller scale, Drifters has twice provided boats and crews for Canal & River Trust’s The Boater’s DVD
– for the last one, we also wrote the script. Through the skill and imagination of their production teams, all of these programmes have brought the canals in attractive ways to new audiences – just what Drifters is for – and given us lots of fun.
Seven magic facts about the River Great Ouse, Britain’s hidden gem THIS month will see an influx of boats on the River Great Ouse on their way to the Inland Waterways Association’s Festival of Water at St Neots over the bank holiday weekend (August 25-27). It has been described as one of Britain’s lesser discovered great places to wind down for a while. And when you include its tributaries – the rivers Cam, Lark, Little Ouse and Wissey – the Great Ouse offers about 140 miles of navigable waterway flowing through peaceful countryside and attractive rural villages and towns. That makes it fourth in length after the mighty rivers Severn, Thames and Trent. It is one thing to admire our waterways from the bankside, but another experience again to explore them in full while afloat. Those on the right kind of boats with unlimited horizons can travel further afield too, reaching The Wash in one direction, or heading for the River Nene and the Grand Union to access Britain’s vast canal network beyond. Tingdene Marinas, which has a network of nine marinas across the inland waterway network, recently acquired Hartford Marina on the Great Ouse near Huntingdon, see feature on page 17. It outlines seven things you might not know about the Great Ouse: 1. Boating is often portrayed as a pastime of ‘fat cats’ – but the reality is the Great Ouse and waterways like it are enjoyed by people from all walks of life, who choose to spend their relaxation time by going afloat, in all manner of ways, from kayaks to paddleboards and cruisers to narrowboats. A boat with accommodation to look after you for a weekend or more on the Great Ouse can be purchased for no more than the value of a new or second-hand car, but it won’t depreciate in the same way. You can start small too and still enjoy all the benefits of a life afloat – a 5m (16ft) motorboat will cost less than £2000 annually for
a river licence, insurance and a pontoon mooring at a top-grade secure haven with full family facilities like those found at Hartford Marina. 2. If you need a change of pace in your life, then the Great Ouse offers that in abundance. You cruise on calm river waters at not much more than walking pace, taking in the Fenland landscape and breathtaking sights like the dominant towers of Ely Cathedral. There are plenty of rural visitor moorings too so you can lose yourself for a while – or for days. 3. Have you ever thought it would be handy to park your bed outside the pub? Dream about it no more. On a quick count, we found at least 30 pubs that are by the water, or within easy walking distance from it, between Denver and Bedford. Plus, you’ll find a lot of other cafes and restaurants to cater for all tastes. 4. Although it runs through the Fenlands, which we all like to think of as flat, the Great Ouse and its tributaries use a total of 22 locks to deal with the river’s gentle descent to the sea. These are some of the shallowest locks in Britain and are mostly operated by boat owners themselves, an easy and fascinating process in which you can involve family and friends. Cruising time between locks varies between around 30 minutes and four hours, depending on where you are. 5. Boating on the Great Ouse not only opens a unique perspective on the Fenland countryside but it also provides a very different viewpoint of the cities, towns and villages along its path. These include Bedford, St Neots, Huntington and Godmanchester, Hartford, Hemingford Grey, St Ives, Earith, Cambridge (via the Cam) and Ely. That also illustrates just how accessible the Great Ouse is, with excellent road and rail connections to quickly transport you from work to play at weekends and even perhaps a cheeky midweek visit on long summer evenings.
The O ld Huntingdon Bridge over the R iver G reat O use. PHOTO: JANET RICHARDSON 6. Given the regularity of towns and villages along your path, you are never short of things to do. But for extra interest there are many additional features in this historic area. For example, you can learn about how the Fens are managed by an incredible system of drains and pumping stations at the Prickwillow Museum in Ely. Or visit the wildlife sanctuaries of the Ouse Washes and Welney Wildfowl Trust. Or perhaps swot up at the schoolhouse of Britain’s original republican by visiting the Cromwell Museum in Huntingdon. 7. The Great Ouse might be a hidden gem and, in many respects, a lazy backwater. But it also enjoys significant investment too. Hartford Marina, perfectly placed in the middle of the navigation for explorations to the west or east, has been a popular place for people to base their boats since it was first developed in the 1960s. Now it is receiving more than £1 million of upgrade work, to provide moorings on the very latest design of pontoons.
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StarNarrow oatHol ays.co.uk nter Stat c et A a la le No 18 ar 19 nclus e
44(0) 7944 404227
74 TECHNICAL
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A little maintenance goes a long way Tool box essentials
IF YOU’RE encouraged by the warmer weather to take to the water, don’t be one of those people who having left your boat unused for months, fails to undertake any maintenance before setting off. At River Canal Rescue, we always find call-outs spike at this time of year and in many cases it’s due to expectations that the boat will continue to perform when it’s not been given the ‘once over’. The following tips will hopefully reduce the likelihood of you having to contact us, ensuring your all-important holiday remains uninterrupted. • Check batteries are charging correctly and that the charge rate from the alternator to the batteries is as it should be. • Check the Morse control is working correctly and that the throttle and gears are selecting smoothly. • Check you have enough fuel to complete your journey and inspect all fuel lines and shut off valves for leaks. • Check the condition of your stern gland, ensure there’s plenty of grease supplied to it and that the prop shaft is turning freely. • Check the engine oil and gearbox oil levels and top up if need be. • Check the condition of the fan belt. If it’s worn, get it replaced. • Check all coolant hoses for leaks and wear and tear. Replace if required. For raw water-cooling engines, check the seacock, impeller and filter and all pipe work for leaks. • Check the condition of the engine mounts. If they are worn, replace them or if the bolts seem loose, tighten before cruising again (but only adjust the top bolt). • Check all bolts and connections are tight on the coupling. • Check the air filter and replace or clean as needed.
And before setting off, ensure you have these tool box essentials on board: • A multi-meter (battery tester) • PTFE tape (for dealing with unexpected domestic leaks) • Adjustable spanners • Spanner set • Filter wrench • Side cutters and cutting equipment for fouled propellers • 24mm spanner for engine mount adjustment • A flat head and multi-faceted Phillips screwdriver • Pliers • A hammer • Spare lengths of electrical wire/ insulation tape • A socket set • Refractometer for checking coolant (antifreeze) and batteries • Spark plug sockets (for outboards only) • Jump leads With this kit you should be able to manage the majority of maintenance issues and don’t forget the spares, carry common or engine specific spares such as: Morse cables throttle and gear selection, fan belts, impellers, spark plugs, fuel and oil filters, bulbs, bolts and fuses, plus a supply of oil and ‘stop leak’ or putty for those unexpected hull breaches.
Before you make that emergency call Following are some common scenarios which may help you solve the problem before making that call: • If you are losing propulsion and the propeller is slow-moving, put the engine in reverse. The prop may be covered in weed or leaves and this can help release it.
Enj oy carefree cruising this summer. PHOTO: JANET RICHARDSON • If the engine cuts out when in gear, check the propeller for obstruction. • If the engine cuts out when revved, check the air filter – it may be blocked with dust (can be removed and run without it in an emergency). Alternatively check for blocked fuel filters (Vetus has a small fuel pump filter that is usually overlooked). • Is the engine overheating? It could be an air lock in the cooling system. Resolve it by unscrewing the bolt sitting on top of the water tank – this will release the air. • If the boat won’t go into gear, check the cable is moving the selector arm
A ready source of electrical power A NEW range of Clarke inverter generators provides a ready source of electrical power for boats and other outdoor uses including camping, caravanning and market trading. Stocked by Machine Mart, these models use ‘Sine Wave Technology’ ensuring the delivery of clean and stable power, vital when running sensitive electrical/electronic equipment such as TVs, computers and laptops. Max power options available are 800W, 1100W and 1800W and all feature easy start, efficient four-stroke
engines that include an Eco throttle system and low oil/overload shutdown for greater fuel efficiency and reduced running costs. They are compact, super light (from only 9.3kg) and housed in a stylish case with rubber feet designed for portability, with the added benefit of reducing noise levels to an absolute minimum as low as 69dBA at 7m (¼ load) and a running time of up to 5½ hours at ¾ load. All models include a 12v DC battery charging facility with single or twin sockets.
way; ensuring batteries are in a good condition, having a fuel service and checking the condition of cables could make the difference between making an unscheduled stop and carefree cruising. And if you need us, download the sos app for immediate assistance and/ or advice.
● Do you have a q uestion on boat maintenance which breakdown and assistance firm R iver Canal R escue can help you with? If you are keen to see a particular technical topic covered, contact us at Technical Tips, Towpath Talk, PO Box 4 3 , Horncastle, Lincs LN9 6LZ ; email editorial@ towpathtalk.co.uk
Liveaboards ‘should not be disadvantaged’ by red diesel rules
Prices in this range start from £ 2 15.98 incl V AT. PHOTO SUPPLIED
● To view M achine M art’ s full range of generators online, visit: https:/ / www.machinemart.co.uk/ c/ petrol-dr iven-s uitcase- type- generators/
Saving the past for the future THE Yorkshire Ex-Commercial Barge Club specialises in industrial history preservation. Its members are all owners of private vessels and welcome support in helping them fight the odds to save these craft and thus preserve the past for the future. These craft are so important that National Historic Ships has registered the entire fleet. A short documentary by Mark Harrison of craft on the Aire & Calder highlights the increasing difficulties in preserving and maintaining these historic barges. The documentary can be viewed at www. towpathtalk.co.uk or www.markharrisonphoto. com
on the gearbox, if it is then the cable is fine. Check the oil in the gearbox. • Engine won’t turn off? Know where the manual stop button or lever is situated, usually on the right-hand side of the engine. A small amount of preparation and attention to detail can go a long
M embers of the Y orkshire Ex- Commercial Barge Club have been working fl at out in dry dock with Freda Carless. After shot blasting 4 2 5sq m of hull to bare metal, they have painted her in three coats of industrial grade epoxy and five coats of tar – that’ s 3 4 0 0 sq m of painting! PHOTO SUPPLIED
THE Residential Boat Owners’ Association (RBOA) has responded to a joint call for evidence recently published by Defra and the Treasury on Non-road Mobile Machinery (NRMM). Red diesel accounts for 15% of all diesel consumption in the UK and currently benefits from a reduced duty rate of 11.14p per litre compared to the standard charge of 57.95p. The call for evidence is looking at whether the reduced duty rate for red diesel is holding back the use of cleaner fuels by non-road vehicles and machinery in towns and cities. The call for evidence therefore excludes red diesel used for agricultural purposes and for fishing vessels but includes a wide range of other uses such as machinery used in construction or waste management sites, mobile generators, inland waterway vessels and transport refrigeration units, to mention just a few. RBOA responded as follows: “The fundamental case for retaining legal availability of red diesel for residential boats and other floating homes in the UK is unchanged from that put forward, accepted and agreed at the time of the previous HMRC consultation. If anything, the earlier case is now strengthened due to the substantial increase in numbers of UK residents now living afloat and the fact that Central Government actively encourages local authorities to include the needs of residential boaters in their constituency housing plans.
“Those living in floating homes should not be disadvantaged in terms of cost for heating and power provision when compared with land-based residents who can readily access low cost heating oils. “The present scheme, whereby residential boaters self-declare a percentage split of diesel usage between domestic and propulsion, works well, is fair, is transparent and is easily accounted for by fuel retailers. “It should not be forgotten that, even when under way, whenever a craft’s engine is run it is usually providing power to charge electrical battery banks and, often, hot water for personal hygiene, domestic uses and/or central heating of accommodation space. “It would be totally impractical and financially prohibitive if retailers and live-aboard dwellers were required to cater for two different fuels (red/ white diesel). The provision of extra/ separate storage tanks and dispensing equipment by suppliers could force many to abandon fuel sales which, itself, would cause major availability issues for navigating craft. Similarly, a requirement for craft to carry two separate tanks on board would be impossible in many cases, particularly on relatively small craft where space is already at a premium. “In conclusion, RBOA strongly advises that the availability and accountability of red diesel for use in residential craft (floating homes) throughout the UK should remain unchanged.”
TRADER www.towpathtalk.co.uk
BOAT SALES
Your essential monthly guide to boat builders, brokers and private sales
Wharf House Narrowboats Wharf House Narrowboats Strensham Mill Moorings Strensham Mill Moorings D Narrowboats
T
UI DERS
Brit Marine
Aintree Boat Co
Calcutt Boats
Colecraft Engineering
David Mawby
Collingwood Boat Builders
Ely Marine
Elton Moss Boatbuilders
Evesham Marina
Heywood Boat Builders
Great Haywood Boat Sales
D Narrowboats SR Boats
D Boat Services Gailey Karl Farrant Marine Sales
Nottingham Boat Co
Lakeland Leisure
Red Hill Marina
Longport Brokerage
R & D Boatbuilders
Nationwide Narrowboat Sales
RO ERS
New & Used Boat Co
ABC Leisure Group
Norbury Wharf
ABNB
Roydon Boat Sales
Alvecote Marina
Strensham Mill Moorings
Ashwood Marina
Swanley Bridge Marina
Ash Boats & Lakeland Leisure Est
Tingdene Marinas
Boatfinder Brokerage
Venetian Marina Whilton Marina
Braunston Marina
Weltonfield Narrowboats
BOAT SALES 75
76 BUILDERS
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BUILDERS 77
78 BUILDERS
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BUILDERS 79
80 BUILDERS
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BUILDERS / BROKERAGE 81
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BROKERAGE 83
84 BROKERAGE
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BROKERAGE 85
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ALVECOTE MARINA GROUP Narrowcraft Brokerage
www.AlvecoteMarina.co.uk
narrowcraft@alvecotemarina.co.uk
Robeys Lane, Alvecote, Tamworth B78 1AS
TARA LD
SO
£48,950
01827 898585
Tuesday - Saturday 8.30-5.30. Sunday & Monday by appointment.
AELFWYN
Boat of the Month
35ft Trad, built by Colliery Narrowboats, 1994, ideal starter boat or holiday craft, BSC expires 07/08/18, fully blacked in April 2015.
57ft Semi-trad by Riverview boats. Beta Marine - Low engine hours. Built 2000 2 berth
EDEN
Trad by Brumagen Boats 1978 50ft Tug with traditional boatmans cabin. Lister HA2 in traditional engine room
£29,950
SUSANNA
Just arrived. 47ft cruiser stern, 2 berth project boat. Yanmar engine, GRP superstructure/ Steel Hull, Hull overplating work has been carried out.
£12,000
£24,950
LUCY HELEN
BLUE MOON:
38ft cruiser style, 1982 Coles Morton Marine
57ft semi trad by Measham boats 4 berth, Nanni Diesel engine
£49,500
LD
SO
£17,500
WILLIAM
Purpose built 70ft Coal Boat built in 2012. Powerful modern Barrus Shire engine. Modern accommodation with galley and shower. Retail diesel tanks and pump fitted. Full set of cloths. Everything you need for a canal retail business
ONLY
£38,950
FREE MOORING - NO LICENCE REQUIRED - FREE MOORING - NO LICENCE REQUIRED Thinking of selling? Look no further, we have been selling boats for over 30 years and urgently need more boats for more customers. No licence required and no moorings charged.
Call our friendly boating team now on 01827 898585
86 BROKERAGE
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BROKERAGE 87
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LW963 ‘Aslan’
70ft trad Brunel Class. 1989. Vetus M4.14 diesel. 4 berth. Kabola diesel boiler. Solid fuel stove. Ideal liveaboard. £39,950 BSC to 2021.
LW968 ‘Edan’
30ft trad narrowboat, 2000, BMC 1500. Lined TGV cab sides, bulkheads fitted, bed fitted, new BSS.
£14,950
LW970 ‘Second One’
LW964 ‘Secret Valley’
34ft cruiser by David Piper, 1992, owner fitout 1995, Vetus M3.10, 2 berth, s/f stove, headroom 6’5”. £17,950 BSC to 03/21.
23ft Springer cruiser. 1989. Fully rebottomed August 2017 by Stokeboats. Thornycroft 33 diesel. Great little £9,500 project.
LW971 ‘Stalham’
LW972 ‘Bud’
70ft Norton Canes with vintage Kelvin K2 diesel, 1991. decorated boatmans. Nicely fitted out. BSC to 2019.
£56,750
27ft cruiser 1996, rebottomed 2016. Vetus 2cyl. 3 berth. On land. New BSC to be supplied.
£17,950
See website for up to date listing of boats for sale
88 BROKERAGE
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BROKERAGE 89
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VARK £55,000
54ft Traditional narrowboat. Built 1998 by Gary Gorton. Fixed double & full size sofa bed in saloon. Beta Marine 38hp/PRM 160 hydraulic engine, 4576 hours. 1 starter & 5 leisure batteries. LPG fuelled central heating boiler, radiators and under bed heating. BSC to April 2022, blacked November 2016, Bitumen, surveyed 2010. A superb boat in beautiful condition, lovingly maintained. Viewing highly recommended.
WINDRUSH £52,000
47.5ft reverse layout cruiser stern. Built 2012 by Black Prince. 4 berth, fixed double & dinette converts. Canaline 42hp engine. Webasto to 4 fixed radiators. Calorifier & Webasto hot water. 1 starter, 3 leisure & 1 bowthruster batteries. Blacked November 2016, engine serviced November 2015, 217 hours. BSC to September 2020.
BOATS URGENTLY REQUIRED FOR BROKERAGE OR PURCHASED OUTRIGHT BEAU BRUMMEL 2
is a 58ft Trad built Liverpool Boats with an owner fit out in the popular reverse layout. The boat is gas free. Calorifier. Bubble stove. Isuzu 43hp. 240v landline, a Pure Sine Wave 2500w inverter, a Travelpack generator, 6 x 100w solar panels (new) with controller, 1 starter & 4 leisure batteries. 4 berth. Dinette. Walkthrough bathroom. Cassette toilet. BSC August 2020. Blacked 2015. Surveyed November 2015.
£49,950 HELLEBORUS NO2 is a 62ft Trad built by Peter Nicholls with a professional
BEEJAY £45,000
57ft Semi-traditional narrowboat. Built 2005 by Pinder. 3 berth, 1 fixed double & 1 single. Yanmar (Barrus) 40hp PRM 150 engine. 4 leisure & 1 starter batteries. Multi-fuel stove, Aldi boiler to 4 radiators. Calorifier, immersion heater and engine hot water supply. BSC to February 2019.
fit out. Portholes throughout. Calorifier. Alde. Morso Squirrel stove (new). Perkins 410 engine. 240v landline, 2000w inverter (new), 1 starter & 4 leisure batteries. 2 berth. Porta Potti (new), a bath with shower over. Cooker, washing machine. BSC March 2021. Blacked February 2017. New anodes 2013. Serviced summer 2016. Surveyed 2011.
£44,950 BARKING MAD is a 52ft Trad built by R & D with an owner fit out. Portholes
CED
U RED
throughout. Calorifier/back boiler/immersion. Squirrel stove (new). Kabuta engine. 240v landline, a Sterling inverter, 1 starter & 4 leisure batteries. 4 berth. Dinette. Cassette toilet, shower.Vanette cooker, a 240v fridge and laminate worktops. BSC July 2020. Blacked 2014. Surveyed 2017. This vessel requires some replaiting work. Cratch cover. 1 side hatch. Houdini hatch. A great boat with a fantastic layout.
£29,950
KATIE J £47,500
65ft Semi-traditional narrowboat. Built 2003 by Heron Boats. 3 berth – fixed double & single back cabin. Isuzu 38hp engine. 1 starter & 5 leisure batteries. Webasto & Multifuel stove heating. Blacked 2015 with Bitumen, new anodes 2013, BSC to 11/07/2020, serviced 2016 + fuel clean.
EMILIA GRACE £23,500
50ft Cruiser stern. Built 1986 by Mike Heywood. Beta Marine 37hp engine. 1 fixed single berth. 1 starter & 2 leisure batteries. Surveyed May 2017, blacked May 2017 with Bitumen and new anodes, engine serviced May 2017
LADY is a 30ft Trad built by John Else with an owner fit out. Paloma. Heron solid fuel
stove. BMC 1.8 engine. PRM Delta 20 gearbox. 240v landline, 1 (new) starter & 0 leisure batteries. 2 berth with 2 x single make up beds. The bathroom contains a Porta Potti, a shower and a vanity basin. The galley is equipped with a cooker, a fridge and laminate worktops. BSC September 2017. Blacked 2011. A beautiful boat.
£17,950
CLOUDY BAY is a 23ft GRP Cruiser built by F H Child with an owner fit out. There is Propex (gas) heating. Honda outboard 8hp petrol engine (2 years old, recently serviced). 240v landline, 2000w inverter, Victron battery monitor (new 2016), 2 x solar panels, 1 starter & 2 leisure batteries. 2 berth. Porta Potti. Waeco 12v/240v compression fridge/freezer. BSC June 2017. Water pump & filter replaced October 2016.
£5,995
NOW OPERATING FROM 10 MARINAS GREAT HAYWOOD BOAT SALES LTD
Email: enquiries@greathaywoodboatsales.co.uk www.greathaywoodboatsales.co.uk Tel: 01889 881960
90 BROKERAGE
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The ‘Boaters’ Canal Centre
the Brokerage MONSIEUR CORBEAU
£47,000
1992 57ft6 ” D oug Moore fit out powered by a V etus engine and G earbox. Boat safety till 2018.
PEACE
£16,995
1987 3 0ft Mick S ivewright Boat powered by a V olvo Penta. Boat safety till 2022.
R
UNDER OFFE TRUNDLE
£45,000
1994 6 0ft G ary G orton Powered by a G ardner L 2 with a hydraulic drive. Boat S afety till 2018.
PENNEKAMP
£55,000
2003 57ft A ndicraft/ Calcutt powered by a BMC 1.8 Engine and PR M 150 G earbox. Boat S afety till 2019.
R
UNDER OFFE SOPHIE KATE
£46,000
1999 55ft S outhwest D urham S teelcraft, powered by a Y anmar S hire 16 00 and a PR M D elta gearbox. New Boat S afety with sale of Boat.
VERONICA
£42,000
2007 50ft A ndicraft/ Calcutt Boats, Powered by a BMC 1.8 and a PR M 150 gearbox. Boat safety until S ept 2021.
SERVICES
WANTED
Marina Berths
We currently have some blacking and service spaces available please contact Martin for more information.
Boat for sale, due to the success of our brokerage we are looking for boats to sell.
One or two berths have become available in our award winning marinas, if you are interested in mooring with us, please call Steven for more details
Reliable central heating and hot water for boats of any size
www.dieselheating.com
Marine Engines BMC Specialists Specialists in servicing, rebuilding and spare parts for BMC. Our respected quality re-manufactured BMC 1.5 and 1.8s marinised for keel cooling from £2820 If it’s BMC we have what you need Call us now! ALL PRICES SHOWN INCLUDE VAT
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
GEARBOXES PRM 120/125 D2 ............................£668.00 PRM 150 D2 ...................................£998.00 PRM 260/280 D2 ..........................£1396.00 A range of high quality re-built gearboxes are also available... including Hurth Call us now with your requirements
Tel 01926 813757 email: boats@calcuttboats.com Fax: 01926 814091 www.calcuttboats.com Calcutt Boats Ltd, Tomlow Road, Stockton, Southam, Warwickshire, CV47 8HX
BROKERAGE 91
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Idyllic moorings available now on the Shropshire Union Canal at Norbury Junction
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92 BROKERAGE
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BROKERAGE 93
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DABCHICK- A unique opportunity for fun boating! • Purpose built steel narrowboat 1 .6 x 6.6 -stroke HP outboard • Beautiful sound boat for day use. • Inside cabin and outer covered deck area. • inimal running costs. Picnics/ ishing/ Art / riting/Reading time • Perfect for those special family days or romantic afternoons r ce • Pack with whatever you need for that 8 000 special day and head o into the sun
lease contact Ely
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Tel: 01353 664622 • info@cathedralmarine.co.uk
Selection of new and used canal boats for sale
www.eveshammarina.co.uk
Boats wanted for brokerage Boats bought for cash
Sundancer
£11,500
Bates Astral 7 7ft x ft in BMC engine 4 berth C heating Anti-fouled March This is a great example of the Bates Astral offering good accommodation for a family BSS to une
SO D The Cats Whiskers
£29,995
Trad stern narrowboat Built by onathan Wilson Undergone partial modernisation by owner Thornycroft engine diesel cooker and central heating 4 berth A good quality boat BSS to May
Balaena
Reduced £124,950
A fabulous quality modern and an all inclusive boat Comes fully loaded with host of extras from a built-in generator double glazing solar panels Morso stove v fridge & freezer and much more BSS to uly
Tel: 01386 768 500
New 62ft x 12ft Wide Beam
£127,950
Luxurious internal fit out with loads of extras 7 hp engine bow thruster large shower kw inverter LED lighting Morso stove Available for immediate delivery
Sell your boat from your home mooring
Email: noel@eveshammarina.co.uk
94 BROKERAGE
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IONWIDE NATSALES N A “Good at selling Boats” D RROWBOAT LT
NEW AND USED BOAT SALES AVAILABLE AT THORNE SOUTH YORKSHIRE Contact Stan Agar on 07500 403640 anytime or 01405 741889 during office hours
£POA
NEW BOATS ARRIVING WEEKLY
NEW ARRIVAL CAWKY
£42,500 – NEW ARRIVAL
57ft Semi Trad Stern Narrowboat built 1997 by Richard Fee. Lister Canal Star diesel engine, Solid fuel stove, Aldi gas central heating, bow thruster, dinette (coverts to second bed), washing machine, gas oven & 4 burner hob, shower, 3kw Sterling inverter, Sterling battery charger, 240v Freezer, 12v Fridge, Fixed double bed to stern, 5 berth.
BOAT BLACKING AND BOAT SAFETY CERTIFICATION SAFE NEW ARRIVAL
JUST ARRIVED
MONKEY BUSINESS £46,500
SA ZUCIYA
£32,000
57ft Semi Trad Stern Narrowboat built 1997 by Richard Fee, Lister Canal Star diesel engine, Solid fuel stove, Aldi gas central heating, bow thruster, dinette (coverts to second bed), washing machine, gas oven & 4 burner hob, shower, 3kw Sterling inverter, Sterling battery charger, 240v Freezer, 12v Fridge, fixed double bed to stern, 5 berth.
57ft Cruiser Stern Narrowboat built 2010 by Lainey Cain Narrowboats, Isuzu diesel engine, Aldi central heating, gas oven & hob, side doors , Inverter & battery charger, bath with shower over.
ERIC
£85,000
57ft x 10ft Widebeam Narrowboat built 2017 by Collingwood Boats with REVERSE LAYOUT AND 2ND BEDROOM, Canline diesel engine, solid fuel stove, Webasto diesel central heating, cassette toilet, large shower, two bedrooms, gas oven & grill with 4 burner hob, Smeg fridge freezer, washing machine, breakfast bar, side doors, Sterling inverter & battery charger. This boat would be an ideal floating home.
BOAT TRANSPORT AVAILABLE BY ROAD OR WATER INCLUDING CRANAGE NEW ARRIVAL
PERSUDER
HARVEST MOON
£POA
57ft Trad Stern Narrowboat built 2011 by Eastwood Engineering & fit out by Whittaker Coachbuilders, Barrus Shire Diesel engine, solid fuel stove, Aldi central heating and hot water system, dinette, gas oven with grill & 4 burner hob, pump-out toilet, large corner shower, large fixed bed to stern. A very well thought out boat with lots of storage.
£36,500
40ft Trad Stern Narrowboat, Thorney Croft diesel engine, Reflex diesel stove, gas oven & hob, fridge, shower, cassette toilet, fixed double bed
HANNAH D
£49,950
50ft Cruiser Stern Narrowboat built 2011 by J D Boat Builders, Beta Marine diesel engine, Squirrel solid fuel stove, Gas oven & hob, Fridge, Freezer, Large corner shower, Cassette toilet, Fixed double bed to stern, Sterling inverter charger, Calorifier, Galvanic isolator
BOAT SERVICING • SURVEYS • PAINTING • INTERIOR REFITS UNDER OFFER PATIENCE 2
£55,000
50ft Dutch Style Barge Narrowboat built 2006 by Alexander Boat Builders, Barrus Shire 40hp diesel engine, diesel central heating, make up double bed & fixed double bed, oven/4 burner hob, fridge, inverter & charger, Calorifier & immersion heater, out of water surveyed and blacked February 2018.
THOMAS
£82,000 OVNO
57ft x 12ft Widebeam Narrowboat built 2006 by Liverpool Boats fitted out by HW Boat Builders, diesel engine, Webasto diesel heating, solid fuel stove/back boiler, gas cooker/4 burner hob, grill/oven, Fridge freezer & second fridge, washing machine, Sleigh bed, fitted wardrobes, 3/4 bath with shower over, Cassette toilet, Last blacked June 2015, BSC until November 2018
UNDER OFFER
TODDY £26,500 30ft Trad Stern Narrowboat built 1991 by Conmac Boats, inboard Beta Marine diesel engine, solid fuel stove, cassette toilet, shower, gas oven with grill & 4 burner hob, fridge, sofa bed, inverter, side doors each side.
TORRIDON
£34,000
56ft Cruiser Stern Narrowboat built 1989 by Eastwood Engineering with REVERSE LAYOUT. Beta Marine 43hp diesel engine, 5kw Lister diesel generator. Solid fuel stove and reflex diesel heater. Fridge, cooker, Paloma water heater. Immersion heater. Clean tidy well kept boat that would make a great liveaboard.
Make sure you visit us for great boats at great prices (All current boats available to view on our website)
BOATS URGENTLY REQUIRED.
BROKERAGE 4% OR CASH PURCHASE Call us on 01405 741889 - 07500 403640 Open 7 days a week - 8am to 4.30pm
nnbsales@gmail.com
www.nationwidenarrowboatsales.com
Hatfield Road, Thorne, Doncaster, South Yorkshire DN8 5RA
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98 BOATING DIRECTORY
Need a Surveyor or Boat Safety Examiner?
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ANODES
BOAT HANDLING COURSE
BOATS WANTED
CANOPIES
BOAT BUILDER
BOATS WANTED
BOOKS CANAL BOOKS, GUIDES AND MAPS. Probably the best selection. www.canalbookshop.co.uk or visit Audlem Mill on the Shropshire Canal. Tel: 01270 811059 AU628737L
CANALIA
BOAT PAINTERS
EQUIPMENT
BOAT PAINTERS CANOPIES Canvasman - see some examples of our work on our main advert page 43. 01943 851444 www.canvasman.co.uk CA619489L
100 CLASSIFIED
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EQUIPMENT
GRAPHICS
GRIT BLASTING
ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT
HEATING
UEL POLISHING
GEARBO ES INSULATION OAM SP A ING AND IN ECTING. UK s number one spray foam company. 30 years experience. Call Brian on 08007 313497 07971 200559. Email Brian cosyhomeuk.co.uk
CO624949L
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INSURANCE
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LIGHTING
MOORINGS
MOORINGS
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RESTORATION
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REPAIRS
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SITUATIONS ACANT
TRANSPORT B
ROAD
BOTANY BAY BOATYARD • Narrow or Wide Beam • Certified Crane • Brokerage • Hardstanding DIY Call Shaun on 07967 380464 Or Karl on 07770576288
Botany Bay Boatyard 7 Botany Bay | PR6 9AE
n us on
The arro boat olida
U T UR C NTINU T R CRUIT R TH
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H re leet n neers
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nterested lease contact us ith our Human Resources 2 The H e arket r stol S2 0 H ma l hr@an lowelsh.co.uk
or
IN
ynsham
est Street St h l s
TRANSPORT B WATER
STORAGE
SER ICES
SKIPPER SER ICES
ETI ED BOAT O NE offers to move your vessel on Inland aterways.Sensible fees for professional work. eferences available from satisfied owners. Experience of tidal Thames, Severn and Avon, Sharpness to Portishead and Bristol. Antony 07812 183 340 antony100uk yahoo.co.uk AN628976L
UPHOLSTER
TRANSPORT Specialists in moving narrowboats up to 70 ft
RELIABLE: if we say we will be there at 4am you can count on it. No additional charges for weekends Crane also available in Manchester area
WINDOWS
FREE QUOTE, CONTACT US TODAY:
Info@SaltransPC.co.uk 07710 444857 • 0161 212 2833
Channelgla e Ltd: See our main advertisement on page 44. Tel: 0121 706 5777 C 619488L
READER ADVERTS 103
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READER ADVERTS
Selling your boat is FREE for private readers of Towpath talk
For sale
PORT-HOLED TRAD £42,000. Tel. 07940 725709. London. CLASSIC ORMELITE 24ft 4-berth river cruiser, fitted out in 2015/2016 with new Beta marine 2 cyl diesel engine and association reduction gearbox, prop shaft and 12” bronze propeller, plastic diesel tank, full electrical refit and fuse panel, full out of water survey bottom cleaned painted, chemical toilet/wash hand basin sep cubicle, 2 ring gas cooker and oven, sink, mixer taps, reluctant sale due to bereavement, £11,500 ono. Tel. 01606 783896. Cheshire.
COMFY SWEATER Mayland Sapphire 22, 1989, 22ft long, 6ft 10” beam, 4 berth, 25 ltr fuel cap, 100 ltr water cap, cooker, fridge, hot and cold water system, sep toilet, 12 and 240v elecs, standing headroom, powered by a Mercury 30hp 4 stroke outboard engine, BSC 2022, all orig gel coat (not painted), just arrived and to have hull polished and new anti-fouling, inc new mooring ropes, clean fenders, etc, FREE DELIVERY within 250 miles or discounted mooring available, £9750. Tel. 07721 382619. Notts.
ENTERPRISE SEAMASTER 30 Twin Perkins 50hp diesels, 6 berths in three cabins, fuel tanks 2 x 40 gall, water 40 galls, fully kitted ready to go, reasonfor sale is a recent stroke means my boating days are over, Safety Cert, £15,000 Tel. 07594 956921. rodjones47@outlook.com 40FT NARROWBOAT BSS 24 Apr, 2020, 40ft, blacked Jun 2017, engine serviced Jun 2017, £12,500 Tel. 07821 813317. Wolvs.
GRENADIER 56ft semi-trad narrowboat, built 2002 by Calcutt Boats, powered by Barrus Shire 45hp diesel engine, stern bedroom which has fixed double with storage under, cupboards above, wardrobe and c/h rad, bathroom, Thetford cassette toilet, full gas cooker in green with matching sink and drainer, fridge, wall mounted cabinets, dinette with comfortable seating/dining area, main cabin is open plan, 12/240v elec, twin alternators, 2000w inverter, battery charger, solar panel which needs installing, Eberspacher diesel c/h, BSC, £35,995. Tel. Chris 07799 216704; David 07721 382619.
HYDE AWAY 45ft semi trad, 1987, 45ft long, 4 berths, Vetus M4 engine, 550 ltr water tank made of polyurethane, Stovax Brunel s/fuel stove, c/h Alde Comfort 2920 gas c/h, twin coil calorifier heated by engine and c/h system. Batteries: 2x110 amp Leisure, 1 x 55amp starter new in 2012 and the battery charger was fitted in 2013, galvanic Isolator: N/A, inverter/ charger, 230v, blacked: 22/06/2017 Epoxy. £35,000 Tel. 01270 525046.
LOTTIE VIKING 24 wide beam hiline, 24ft long, 7ft 10” beam, 4 berth, Mariner 30hp engine, 25 ltr fuel cap, 120 ltr water cap, built 2016, 4 + 2 berths, cooker, fridge, shower, cassette toilet, hot/cold water system, 12/240v elec, flex-teak cockpit flooring, solar panel, powered by a Mariner 30hp 4 stroke outboard engine with power lift, BSC 2022, free delivery within 250 miles or discounted mooring available, £37,995 Tel. 07721 382619. Notts.
Selling your boat is
FREE
SAILING DINGHY SKYLARK 8ft for up to 2 persons, marine ply, c/w original plans and paperwork, multi chimed hull, quick botya despite smallish sail, comes c/w wheels in keel, tall and short mast, extra centre seat, dagger board oars, motor mount, wired for electric outboard, with exterior plug, built in buoyancy, weighs 60lb, can be rod racked single handed, everything like new, kept in garage from new, motor and battery kit inc, would make good fishing dinghy, very stable, £395. Tel. 0777 9776508. W Yorks.
SEA OTTER 30 2002, 30ft long, 4 berth, an excellent opportunity to purchase an aluminium Sea Otter with many extras fitted, make good family narrowboat, v low maintenance, at White Bear Marina Adlington, £42,500. For more info and to make an appointment view boat tel. 07845 560025 or 0161 7611913.
THYME 2003, 45ft cruiser stern steel hull, 4 berths, 610ft beam, Thornycroft Mitubushi marine engine, 100 ltr fuel cap, 200 ltr water cap, moored on Calder Hubble canal at Midfield West York Railway Station 2 mins away trains to Leeds, Manchester and London, 4 New Leisure batteries and new starter battery, blacked 5 coats and new anodes fitted Oct 2017 at Hebden Bridge, Boatman Stove eco air propellent, £34,000 Tel. 07400 272121.
TRADITIONAL NARROWBOAT 1992, 38ft long, 7ft beam, 4 berths, Perkins Perama engine 3 cyl engine, 180 ltr fuel capacity, 180 ltr water capacity, trad narrowboat, R & D manufactured, launched 1992, slipped every 2 years, anodes changed, good condition, 4 berth, 2 wardrobes, shower, gas oven, 2 rings d/glazed, oil c/h, alarm fitted, bow thruster, s/s water tank, £23,500 Tel. 01354 651704. Cambs.
VICTORIA TRAD NARROWBOAT 1969, 70ft long, 4 berths, Lister 3 cyl engine, 70ft beam length, 6ft 10”, (Canal Transport Service Ltd). Engine: Lister SR3 BSS, expiry: 27th July 2018 last blacking/anode check: Feb 16 Last Survey: Oct 2014 mooring: residential at Baltmore Marina, Todmorden, trad stern, former working boat with original boatmans cabin and Lister SR3 engine, considerable refurbishment and updating has taken place throughout the last few years and she is an extremely comfortable boat ready to be lived on, Victoria was blacked Feb 2016 and all anodes were checked, surveyed twice in recent years, both surveys had very good results, all essential repairs have been made, £42,000. Tel. 07403 680132. 60FT WORK BOAT Swap or for sale, Armstrong Siddeley AS2 engine, LMS station boat, ‘Paragon’, built by Yarwoods 1929,. for sale or will swap for steel narrow boat up to 35ft. Message for more information regarding Paragon and with information about your boat if you are interested. £18,000 Tel. 07480 860542. Staffs. SHARE IN 50FT NARROWBOAT + 600 p.a. maintenance/contingency 3/4 weeks a year, friendly non-profit, winter mooring, southern G.U. sound strong boat, handles nicely, practical comfortable 5-berth layout, £3000 Tel. 01525 378286 for further information and details. Beds. bllbarntock@yahoo.co.uk
30FT NARROWBOAT CRUISER stern, Nanni Di engine, solid fuel stove, fixed d/bed, 1500w inverter, 22TV calorifier, gas water heater, gas fridge, half ton water tank, bath gold taps, Belstaff sink, Epoxy and blacking, lots of storage, hi-class fit-out, Shore power gas stove, new batteries, BSS 18 months, must be seen, porta-potti, moored Staffordshire, £26,500. Tel. 07966 495016. Aberystwyth. ALDRIDGE NARROWBOAT 65ft steel semi trad, 1991, in last 11 years I have lived aboard it has been completely stripped back to metal and rebuilt inside and out, blacked every 3 yrs (last 2016), all new anodes 2016, fully repainted 2016, safety cert being completed next month, open plan kitchen/ living room, wet room, k/size bed, 2 coal/log burners keep the boat warm and cosy all year round, hatch doors in both kitchen and bedroom, bow thruster, 1600 inverter, 4 Leisure batteries and one starter bought 2018, diesel, low price for quick sale, can be sailed away with all fixtures and fittings for an instant, individual, one-off floating home, £40,000. Tel. 07818 504541. DAWNCRAFT 25FT CRUISER 1974, 25ft long, 7ft beam, 2 berths, Honda 15hp engine that has been regularly serviced, 19 ltr fuel capacity, 19ltr water capacity, 25ft long and 6ft 10” wide, suitable for canals and rivers, Honda 15 engine BSC til June 21, Vanessa 2 burner gas cooker with oven and grill, gas fired hot air heating, porta potti, two single berths in fore of cabin, plenty of storage, rewired thr’out. Ready to cruise with cutlery, pots and pans, plates, cups etc. £5500 Tel. 01773 825635. Derbys. J L PINDER & SONS 58ft narrowboat trad stern, 2005, Barrushire 40hp Yanmar engine, moored Droitwich, £28,500 Tel. 07486 579828. Worcs. SEA OTTER aluminium narrowboat, 30ft, 2001, 3 berth, one owner, Nanni engine 2.50, 1400 hrs, s/h, BSS Nov 2020, fully equipped, carefully maintained, £29,750. Tel. 07748 556656. Email: alpadawe@ ntlworld.com
Parts for sale ALUMINIUM BOAT WINDOW with top opener plus timber frame, glazed, window width 31 9/16”, frame height 23 5/8”, window unit 31 3/16” wide, 22¼” height, offers, any reasonable offer considered. Tel. 07981 162779. Derbys.
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POST the coupon to Towpath Talk Free Ads, PO Box 99, Horncastle, Lincs LN9 6LZ
Your vessel will then appear in the next available two issues.
BRASS FRANCIS SEARCHLIGHT (12v), 11” dia - c/w spigot, originally chrome, taken back to brass and fully restored off an old fire engine, excellent condition and in full working order, used on the bow of our narrowboat until we sold the boat recently, based Lancaster Canal - can meet locally or buyer collect from home address, £495 ono. Tel. Brian on 01524 421998 or 07704 420432.
NARROWBOAT PROJECT WANTED 40ft upwards in length, in need of external or internal work etc. Tel. 07906 019299. WANTED 3.5KW travel power generator. Tel. 01233 639191. Kent. WHALE Mk IV FLIPPER PUMP for sink water supply, must be working, complete and no leaks, post or collect. Tel. 0779 1034695. Cambs. WANTED TRAILER for cruiser, 24ft double axle inc, winch preferred, will collect. Tel. 01924 327395. Mids.
Our important message to both groups is to do careful homework first and not to either hire out your boat or rent a boat that isn’t properly licensed for this use. Please visit: www.canalrivertrust.org.uk/ boating/a-boat-of-your-own to avoid any difficulties with legal and safety issues involved.
Wanted
Miscellaneous
DECORATIVE NARROWBOAT CHIMNEY brass cowl and chimney liner - 12” high, as new condition, based Lancaster canal - can meet locally or buyer collect from home address, £15 Tel. Brian 01524 421998 or 07704 420432. Lancs. DANFORTH STYLE ANCHOR 15kg, with 20ft chain dimensions, 600 x 600mm, photo can be supplied, £20 Tel. 07840 986653. Burton-on-Trent. 12V GENERATOR with automotive alternator, 4-stroke petrol engine mounted in frame, ideal usage canal boats, caravans, remote places, power, wherever you want, new, £200 Tel. 01823 276155. Somerset.
STOVAX 1A BRUNEL multi-fuel stove, cast iron with boiler to run radiators/hot water, very efficient, exc cond, 21” high, 15” wide, (approx £1100 new), oiro £550. Tel. 0781 5024521. . BRITISH TRANSPORT DOCKS for sale ‘150 Years Of The Port Of Goole”, 1826 to 1976, £5 plus postage Tel. 0113 2693672. Leeds, W Yorks. FOLDING MATTRESS for boat or caravan, 6ft long with fold in the middle, 4ft wide, vgc, £50 Tel. 07977 638787. Shropshire.
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TWO REAR FENDERS corner for GRP boat, brand new, 160 x 160 x 60m, photo can be supplied, £20 Tel. 07840 986653. Staffs. RULE 500 GPW BILGE PUMP used with Rule magic plus auto float side, £20; white corner side fender, anchor marine, £10. Tel. 077910 34695. Cambs. STERLING INVERTER/CHARGER 2.1kw Procombi-S, used, collection only from Northampton area, £175 Tel. 07785 188382. Suffolk. INFLATABLE BUOYS (2) new, 16” dia, ideal for front of GRP boat, red, photo can be supplied, £20 Tel. 07840 986653. Staffs. WINDOWS AND PORT HOLES aluminium, gold anodised, 6 x Hopper windows to fit aperture 91.5cm x 53.5cm, £200; 1 x Hopper obscure glass to fit aperture 46cm x 53.5cm, £50; 4 portholes with drop back vents to fit aperture 38.5cm dia, £100; to buy new would cost around £1500, accept £300 the lot Tel. 07914 303910. Warks.
! For sale ! Parts for sale ! Wanted ! Parts wanted ! Miscellaneous ! Photo enclosed
for private readers
1
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104 ON SCOTTISH WATERS with Cicely Oliver
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Flotilla marks 250th Forth & Clyde anniversary THE Forth & Clyde Canal Society celebrated the canal’s 250th anniversary – and highlighted its current problems – with a special cruise.
FCCS boat Voyager arriving at Auchinstarry.
A small flotilla of boats travelled between Kirkintilloch and Auchinstarry; marking the 250th anniversary of the cutting of the first sod of the canal, while campaigning to highlight issues including four bridges currently requiring urgent repair and the canal closed to east–west transit. The society’s three boats – Voyager, Gipsy Princess and replica puffer Maryhill – and a small flotilla of boats from Cadder, Southbank Marina, met boats from Auchinstarry at Twechar Bridge, specially opened without a hitch by Scottish Canals staff, before sailing all the way through to Auchinstarry. Members of the public out and about along the canal were obviously delighted to see the boats.
Local council support was evident, with East Dunbartonshire’s Deputy Provost Gary Pews seeing the boats off from Kirkintilloch, Coun Alan Moir joining the cruise and North Lanarkshire Provost Jean Jones and Coun Heather McVey welcoming the boats to Auchinstarry. All councillors pledged to take measures to ensure the future of the canal. Jim McLachlan, vice-chair of the society, said: “Today we find ourselves celebrating the birth of the canal against a background of it being closed again. “We press for the earliest possible return to normal working and assurances this does not happen again. We’ve made it to Auchinstarry today, a place important in the society’s
EDC councillor Alan Moir, Forth & Clyde Canal Society vice-chairman James McLachlan, Provost Jean Jones, Kilsyth councillor Heather McVey and Kilsyth Civic Week queens addressing members of the society and boaters at Auchinstarry. PHOTOS: CALLUM FREW campaigning history, and our thanks are due to Scottish Canals’ good efforts to make this possible.” The Forth & Clyde Canal Society was formed in 1980, with a focus on campaigning, boat trips, canal clean-ups
and events to advance the reopening of the derelict canal. It continues to promote the canal today, entirely operated by volunteers, with boat trips and charters, guided walks and other canal-related activities.
Fun and games at Edinburgh festival
Pipers from Boroughmuir High School on board Re-Union’s widebeam Lochrin Belle.
PHOTOS: RE-UNION CANAL BOATS
VISITORS flocked to enjoy a fun-filled afternoon of activities at the 2018 Edinburgh Canal Festival. Undeterred by less-than-summery weather at the Union Canal’s Edinburgh Quay, attractions included live music, birds of prey, pony rides, model boats, canoe taster sessions, food and craft stalls, free boat trips and the annual raft race. The festival is a not-for-profit community event co-ordinated by Re-Union Canal Boats, sponsored this year by City of Edinburgh Council and Scottish Canals.
Boorach opened the festival, arriving in style on board Lochrin Belle.
Raft race competitors celebrating.
Action taken to conserve water during dry spell GIVEN the unfounded (sometimes) reputation for dreich, wet weather north of the border, it might come as a surprise to some that the Scottish canals are suffering from the recent hot, dry spell. Boaters making passage along the Crinan Canal are being asked to share locks in order to conserve water levels. They will have to travel in groups on the flights between locks five and 13, to minimise drawing water from the summit. In addition, there will be no overnight stops between locks
A new community hub at the gateway to the Crinan Canal in Ardrishaig will provide facilities for visitors and locals. PHOTO: SCOTTISH CANALS
Visitor centres set to boost tourism
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NEW centres will improve facilities for visitors and locals on the Crinan and Caledonian canals. Fort Augustus, at the southern end of Loch Ness, is the location of the new Caledonian Canal Centre. It is housed in redeveloped premises and includes tourist information, a gift shop and cafe, and a number of holiday rooms. Visitor interpretation will be incorporated throughout the centre, intended to unlock the local heritage and features of the Caledonian Canal, Great Glen and Loch Ness. It is intended that the centre will attract increasing numbers
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of visitors and promote Fort Augustus as a long-stay, year-round destination. The project was awarded £237,500 from the Coastal Communities Fund, which aims to support the economic development of coastal communities by promoting sustainable economic growth and jobs. Meanwhile, a new project worth £1.5 million will see the creation of a heritage and community hub at the gateway to the Crinan Canal in Ardrishaig. A Scottish Canals-led partnership, it will transform and extend a historic (at present disused) building known locally as the ‘egg shed’ – part of the former Gleaner Oil depot. The new interpretation centre will tell the story of the canal and local communities. Space is also planned for activities, as well as new viewing points and walkways around the building. The project is funded by the Scottish Government and the European Community Argyll and the Islands LEADER 2014-2020 programme; the Scottish Government Regeneration Capital Grant Fund; Scottish Canals; Argyll and Bute Council’s Tarbert & Lochgilphead Regeneration Fund; SUSTRANS Community Links Fund; Shanks Argyll & Bute and Argyll & Bute Council through the Scottish Landfill Communities Fund; and Ardrishaig Community Trust.
Water pouring over the top of lock gates on the Maryhill Locks. PHOTO: JONATHAN MOSSE
five to eight and 11 to 13, allowing Scottish Canals to adjust water levels as necessary with minimum disruption to visitors. At present there is no passage for vessels with a draught more than 2.2 metres. Those familiar with the Forth & Clyde may be surprised to learn that water levels have dropped, particularly on the western side of the canal. There is usually a tremendous and continual flow of water between the summit (at Lock 21) and the outflow of the canal into the Clyde at Bowling, with water pouring over the tops of the lock gates. However, boaters have reported sitting on the bottom with water levels dropping in Bowling lower basin as much as 18 inches overnight – unprecedented according to the locals and due to a combination of leaky lock gates and the hot weather. Water is being steadily let down from Lock 21 and ‘collected’ at intervals by opening Lock 37 under the Erskine Bridge. Scottish Canals retain a member of staff to monitor water levels 365 days a year as part of their water management duties. The heat has also affected bridges on the Caledonian Canal, where the temperatures are causing significant expansion of the structures and causing concern that, if opened, some key road and rail bridges in Inverness may not close again. Fort Augustus Swing Bridge, Tomnahurich Swing Bridge and Clachnaharry Rail Bridge have been temporarily closed to boat traffic. As the temperatures cool overnight, the restrictions are lifted.
Polwarth pontoon celebration A NEW pontoon has been officially opened at Polwarth in Edinburgh. Scottish Canals installed the pontoon, with new leisure moorings, adjacent to Polwarth Parish Church (known as the Kirk on the Canal) and Harrison Park, just a mile along the canal from Edinburgh Quay. Two of the new moorings are designated as leisure moorings, with the third dedicated to the Polwarth Church boat, for which the church is currently fundraising under the banner of ‘Float the Boat’. The planned narrowboat will be a mobile base for young people to learn about the natural and cultural aspects of the Union Canal, while developing practical and personal skills. The boat is intended to be a welcoming space for all, promoting a sense of local community and celebrating the natural and cultural heritage of the Union Canal. The pontoon became a possibility when an elderly member of the church, now in her nineties, remembered attending the sea cadets as a young girl and using a landing stage and boatshed beside the church. Working with Scottish Waterways Trust, the National
Seagull Trust’s St John Edinburgh on her way to the canal festival. PHOTO: DAWN WHITTAKER Lottery-funded Canal Shed Project is based at the church. It’s a community hub where people socialise, learn new skills and pass on their skills to others. Activities embrace everything from photography, bird and bee identification and woodworking to handling museum artefacts. The official opening of the Polwarth pontoon took place on the afternoon of the Edinburgh Canal Festival.
ON SCOTTISH WATERS with Cicely Oliver 105
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It’s all sorted on the canals Cicely Oliver meets Karen Bradford, project manager at The Sorted Project – an Edinburgh-based charity supporting people in recovery from substance dependency and associated mental health issues. WORKING with established voluntary and statutory organisations, The Sorted Project provides meaningful training and volunteering opportunities, including a unique, recovery-based canal boat project, in partnership with Re-Union Canal Boats (featured in the June issue of Towpath Talk). One day a week, the project sets sail on Re-Union’s Lochrin Belle on the Union Canal, providing a relaxed
atmosphere that sees remarkable and positive changes in clients’ well-being. Clients also have the opportunity to take the RYA Inland Waterways Helmsman Certificate. Karen enthusiastically talks about recent research by the University of Exeter that demonstrates how nature and being near water can change brainwaves and build new neural pathways, naturally reducing anxiety.
The S orted Proje ct on board R e- U nion’ s Lochrin Belle. PHOTOS SUPPLIED
Having herself felt, and seen, the changes in people once they are on the water, Karen describes the combination of peer support, sense of community, soup-making and communal eating, and the practical boating activities, as a “sweet spot that really works”. In fact, the initiative has been so successful that Karen’s partner Jon Price suggested the project should get its own boat. Initially, Karen and Jon envisaged buying a boat and teams of clients working on the restoration, gaining practical skills along the way. However, a successful bid for Big Lottery funding means the project has been able to commission a new wide beam from Crafted Boats in Bromsgrove, expected to be ready for launch in the spring next year. While commissioning a new boat may be somewhat overwhelming, Karen says Crafted Boats have been enormously helpful throughout the build. With design input by the people who use the service, the vessel will have a 15ft open deck to take advantage of the natural surroundings. As well as storage, and the requisite galley and communal eating area, there will be a quiet space allowing passengers time out if they feel overwhelmed by the social goings-on. The vessel will be moored at Bridge 8 Hub, at Calder on the outskirts of Edinburgh.
Completion of the R Y A Inland Waterways Helmsman Certificate is a reason to smile. Karen sees a recovery community developing right along the Union Canal and on to the Forth & Clyde, with perhaps respite boating weekends. The project will continue to work with other organisations such as Re-Union and the Lowland Canals Volunteer Group, and plans include providing opportunities for arts and crafts, foraging, environmental work and practical skills. While there’s no doubt about the economic benefits of the regeneration brought by the Millennium Link and the
reopening of the Lowland canals to boats – the tangible property development, visitor attractions and increased use of the towpath – the canal restoration has also enabled the less visible, but equally important, benefits to individuals and communities and health and well-being. In fact, you could say that since their restoration, the canals have supported the restoration of people’s health and well-being. There can be no doubt about the potential for good – but this is reliant on the continuing good health of the canals.
£1.6m Lowland boost, but closure fears remain By Cicely Oliver
SCOTTISH Lowland canals have been given a boost with the announcement of an extra £1.6 million Government funding, however fears of waterway closures remain high. The Scottish Government’s announcement of an additional £1.625 million was good news for the beleaguered Forth & Clyde Canal, with the money ringfenced for repairs and improvements to the bridges at Bonnybridge and Twechar and further repairs to Ardrishaig Pier. Boat movement through the two bridges was suspended in February (with temporary openings for Twechar announced recently) and there has not yet been an announcement as to when they will reopen. And in the same week as the announcement, Scottish Canals published a new Asset Management Strategy, setting out its approach to managing the canals over the next 12 years. The published number of boat movements per year on the Forth & Clyde Canal has varied across media outlets. Scottish Canals’ Asset Management Strategy itself quotes 1600 on the Forth & Clyde Canal and 5300 on the Union Canal. Of these 6900 boat movements on the Lowland canals, almost 3000 are carried out by five volunteer boating organisations. In 2017-18, these five organisations between them carried more than 31,500 passengers, working with more than 11,000 individuals who contributed some 66,000 volunteer hours.
The document notes a £70 million repair backlog, with some £6-9 million extra funding required each year, and states: “Our focus will always be on ensuring assets are safe, protecting the wider public, local infrastructure, our staff and visitors, while also aiming, when funds allow, to maintain operational functionality.” This statement apparently downgrades Scottish Canals’ statutory responsibility to maintain Scotland’s canal network in its role of navigation authority. Various scenarios are listed, depending upon the level of grant in aid (the annual funding from Scottish Government), ranging from a ‘steady state’ where the canals can be safely used for a full range of activities, to ‘preserve’, where use of the canal is withdrawn, presumably closed to boating. The funding models are based solely on the grant in aid and do not include any of Scottish Canals’ earned income, recently stated as being some 60% of the total. Statements from the Inland Waterways Association and Keep Canals Alive! urged Scottish Canals to apply more of its earned income – revenue raised from investment in property and tourism – to maintaining the waterways.
Real danger
The launch of the Asset Management Strategy prompted the IWA to release a Position Statement on Scottish Canals, which states its fear and dismay at the “very real danger of Scottish Canals implementing the closure of its Lowland canals”. The statement notes that restoration of the canals was enabled with funding from the Millennium Commission, European Regional Development Fund, Scottish Enterprise and local
Revised arrangements for navigating the Forth & Clyde and the Union canals for the remainder of the season allow for restricted bridge openings and a revision to the earlier restrictions at Bowling Sea Lock, which will now allow the lock to be used at high tide and holiday Mondays. These amendments and the earlier operational restrictions mean the already quiet canals are likely to see even fewer boats moving. authorities, with some of the grant funding including conditions that the canals must be maintained to cruising standard for up to 25 years. The canals were reopened just 17 years ago, with an upgrade from ‘remainder’ to ‘cruising’ status in 2011 bringing the statutory duty on Scottish Canals to maintain them for cruising vessels. The IWA argues “a lack of dredging and poor maintenance – together with recent closures and restrictions – will have contributed to a reduction in use”. Furthermore, the IWA states: “The level of use should not be a significant factor in whether or not a waterway is kept open, as a vibrant waterway is kept alive by boats using it and this in turn brings benefits in terms of improved health and well-being for the local population, as well as increased income through recreation, tourism and regeneration.”
Sustainable solutions
Keep Canals Alive! (KCA!) an alliance of 11 voluntary organisations campaigning against the dereliction of the Lowland canals, issued a statement urging Scottish Canals “to work with stakeholders to
Weed at Auchinstarry on the Forth & Clyde Canal illustrates the result of no boat movement and lack of maintenance. PHOTO: DAVID ALEXANDER BROWN find sustainable solutions to ensure the future of the Lowland canals, for everyone living, working or playing on the waterways” and to “refocus its attention and energies on its primary statutory responsibilities”. KCA! states the Millennium Link project saw Scotland’s Lowland canals transformed from rank, rubbish-filled and hazardous ditches to much-loved, operational canals on which boats of all shapes and sizes could cruise. It continues the tremendous regeneration because the canals were restored and reopened to navigation, not in spite of this fact. Ronnie Rusack, well-known canal campaigner and enthusiast, said: “The nationally important goals of health, well-being and community sit alongside economic benefits of some £828 million
of investment and the millions of canal visits by the public each year. “However, this success is only sustainable if the canals are properly maintained and remain open to navigation. “Make no mistake, a canal closed to boats will degenerate quickly, as was clearly seen in the short time after the closure to navigation of the Lowland canals in 1963: not only the 250-yearold structures of national historic importance – the waterways themselves will fill with weed, stinking silt and rubbish. “These unique and irreplaceable assets, the millions of pounds and the hours of work from individuals, voluntary organisations, local authorities and the Scottish Government itself, will go down the drain.”
Recent changes at the top of Scottish Canals have brought a new interim chief executive officer Catherine Topley and two new appointments to the board: Carolyn Sawers, bringing experience in strategy development, the voluntary sector and social enterprise and Wilma Kelly, with experience in corporate governance, business and entrepreneurial skills. Will these new appointments, together with the re-appointment of Martin Latimer, who has sat on the board since 2012 and worked at a senior level in the Scottish marine leisure industry for more than 40 years, bring a sea change to Scottish Canals’ approach to not only the Lowland canals, but its statutory role as keeper of the Scottish canals?
106 TOWPATH TREASURES
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Bunting Any excuse to celebrate
Words: PHILLIPPA GREENWOOD Images: MARTINE O’CALLAGHAN
WHEN the bunting comes out, everyone knows the canals are about to party! No wellorganised national canal festival or humble local gathering would be complete without a jolly draping of bunting. Every year the big event that unravels yards of flags is Crick
Boat Show. The marina at Crick, on the Grand Union Canal in Northamptonshire, bursts at the seams with hundreds of gleaming boats, all butting side by side. Crick Show is the chance for festivalgoers to nose through dizzy numbers of spanking new
A patriotic display of Un ion fla gs.
Lines of bunting above the boats.
boats and dream of buying (or buy!). When the sun shines, folk stretch out on the sun-toasted grass and when it rains everyone talks about the weather as wellies wade through mud. But rain or shine, the boot-stomping music plays on, and the beer tent rocks with the famous canal camaraderie. Around the last weekend in June bunting is in demand across the country as festival fever steams ahead. Braunston Historic Boat Rally is a thrilling event that seems to attract more boats and people than any tiny water village should. Restored, preserved, adored and adorned narrowboats arrive by water road from all corners of the country to congregate at the rally. Old friends and old boats gather with blatant glee, and the party atmosphere nonchalantly carries
a floating display of nationally important living heritage. This event is a parade for pleasure with the biggest gathering of museum-worthy boats. The bunting flaps in a flurry over gasping crowds as 70ft narrowboats dance together and tillersmen and tillerswomen smile from ear to ear. Wherever there’s a boat festival, the aromas of sun cream and oily rags waft together over the sounds of Morris men jiggling and the rhythmic baritone putt-putt-putt-putt of a historic narrowboat engine. Who says history is boring? The boats and the bunting keep living history in canal style. London has its own bunting for Little Venice, the sleepiest corner of the city, when the Cavalcade puts on its colourful event every May bank holiday.
And Canal Street in Manchester’s gay village abandons all inhibition, screaming with tiaras and rainbow bunting for the annual Pride event every year. Almost every city and county in the nation has a reason to party along its canal at some time in the year. Even the word ‘bunting’ is pleasing to say aloud, with Pavlovian stocks of happy days out as a child. The origins of the word aren’t known, but there are plenty of fascinating facts that can lead to guesses (even with the canals involved by proxy). The textile industry of the late 17th century created a lightweight worsted wool fabric called bunting. And as language evolves, words from the textile industry have new meanings that derive from previous function (such as cheese cloth). ‘Baby bunting’ was a loose cloth that babies were wrapped in and bunting was also the perfect cloth to make flags and ribbons – which were items of everyday
Leading the festival band. working life for traditional boat families of that time. The cloth is also linked with naval ships. Historically, flags were used as a way for ships to signal to others, and the signalman who prepared and flew the flag hoists was called the ‘bunting tosser’. Naval slang today still calls its signalmen ‘bunts’ even though the role has changed unrecognisably.
M orris dancers add to the festival atmosphere.
TOWPATH TREASURES/ANGLING 107
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The Towpath Angler Our monthly look at the angling scene SINCE returning from holiday I have had very few meeting commitments and this has allowed me more time at my desk. It has been exceedingly busy, seeing me dealing with, pretty much, an equal amount of club and national business. No matter how many times you tell members at AGMs etc., very few realise just what is involved in running even a modestly sized club and especially one which either owns or leases its fisheries. Thirty-plus hours per week is not uncommon which is a lot bearing in mind that the vast majority of club officials, like myself, are volunteers so, apart from out-of-pocket expenses, they receive no payment. That said, it is much the same at national level. Just about every sport relies so heavily on its volunteers and many would struggle to exist at all without them. Sadly, volunteers’ efforts are rarely acknowledged . My diary has been almost full to bursting with meetings of all types. This is often the case as organisations try to arrange them prior to the main holiday period in August. A couple of these meetings I am really looking forward to as they could well lead to a link between my club and a local senior school. I already do a little volunteering there (nothing to do with fishing) but we are hoping to develop an inter-house fishing league. I understand there are upwards of 15 students wanting to take part with probably as many again very interested. We are also looking at some sort of dads and lads/girls competition. The whole project has lots of potential which, hopefully, will be mutually beneficial for the school and my club.
The colourful scene at Crick Boat S how.
A colourful refle ction from this line of bunting. Just as bunting was a boatman’s signal, when lines of tidy plastic bunting wave across the inland waterways, they are really just signalling ‘come to a party!’ At any time of year, at any place across over 2000 miles of inland waterways, there’s always a sleepy narrowboat with a faded old bundle of knotted bunting just waiting for the call to be reeled out. Bunting means something to people and every part of the process, from untangling last year’s mayhem from the store box, then deciding the best angle to drape the line, and who will help on the ladder, is part of the special experience. Putting up bunting isn’t a solo task, it’s a preparation for a party, holding the hope of people’s elation in every fibre. So bunting is a tradition steeped in history, and has to be a treasure of the canals because it is the symbol of something happening that is fun to share, and that’s a sentiment close to the heart of canal culture.
Adapted extract from Britain’s Canals, A National Treasure in 100 Must-See Objects by Phillippa Greenwood and Martine O’Callaghan – published by Coolcanals July 2012. www.coolcanals.com
Mooring gap
In my last article I referred to the pilot scheme first proposed around three years ago for a 5m mooring gap on Kennet & Avon and which, if successful, would probably have been rolled out across the whole network. For a number of reasons this project stalled.
Boats moored at the Braunston Historic R ally.
FACT FILE Crick Boat S how Crick Boat Show is one of the largest waterways festivals, held annually each May, and is your chance to wander through dizzy numbers of brand new narrowboats. www.crickboatshow.com Canalway Cavalcade The Canalway Cavalcade is held at the beginning of May each year and this normally calm and tranquil oasis becomes a hive of boats, bunting and partygoers! The Cavalcade is organised by the Inland Waterways Association www.waterways.org.uk Historic Working Boat R ally Braunston holds an annual boat rally at the end of June – it’s the largest gathering of traditional working boats which pack together along the canal in a colourful procession of heritage. Location On canals throughout Britain. The canals are open all day every day – just find your local
canal. Bunting of course takes centre stage at waterways festivals and events throughout the year. How to get there By train National Rail Enquiries 08457 484950 By bus Traveline 0871 200 2233 O n foot Canal towpaths are now easy routes to cycle and walk, many also being part of Sustrans National Cycle Network or long-distance walking trails. www.sustrans.org.uk www.ldwa.org.uk M oorings There are plenty of visitor moorings available along Britain’s canals. Local Tourist info Canal & River Trust/ Glandwr Cymru Use the Canal & River Trust website to find specific local canal information. www.canalrivertrust.org.uk
R oom for a spot of summer fishing next to moored boats on the Trent & M ersey Canal at Alrewas. PHOTO: WATERWAY IMAGES
David Kent
As a result the situation on the K&A is so bad now that in some areas fishing is impossible even though the clubs are paying significant amounts of money to CRT for the right to fish. This situation is also causing major problems for other boaters and, without doubt, compromising safety. It is imperative that the issue is addressed immediately before something quite serious happens. I understand a meeting is being arranged for the near future. We need to see some positive outcomes. Following the magnificent weather over the past week or so I doubt there are many fisheries where the water temperature has not risen to the level where the fish can start (or finish) spawning. Indeed some may even be having a second try. This hot, bright weather normally does not lead to good sport anyway but if the fish have other things on their minds they will rarely feed. Perhaps as proof in the past few days I have seen loads of fry in local pools, on the rivers and on our local canal. With a bit of luck the fish will soon be looking to get their heads down and feed. Last month I expressed concern that my decision-making in competitions had been decidedly suspect and, not surprisingly, that this was affecting my performances. Recent results then suggested I may have got things sorted and I am pleased to say that in the last two weeks I have had two more very good results, one of which was totally down to making the right decisions. I must say though that in a competition just a couple of days ago I got it all wrong, so did not get the result I could have had. But that is fishing. That is what keeps us all trying to improve. If you plan to get on the bank soon I reckon you could catch a few. Keep the approach simple and I am sure the rewards will come. Stay safe in the sun. Tight lines.
More free fishing events AS REPORTED last month, the Let’s Fish campaign continues throughout the summer with more than 100 free events. Organised by the Canal & River Trust, this is an accessible way to enjoy the waterways in which the whole family can be involved. Tackle, bait, rod licence, fishing permit and expert coaching are all provided. Venues in August include: August 1 Kettering Road, Walgrave NN6 9PH, 10am-4pm (also August 8, 15, 29); Vale Park, Aylesbury HP20 1DX, 11am-3pm. August 2 Blacon Avenue, Chester CH1 5BB, 10am-4pm (also August 9, 16, 23, 30). August 3 National Waterways Museum, South Pier Road, Ellesmere Port, 10am4pm (also August 10, 17, 24, 31). August 9 Redhouse Lock, College
Road North, Aston Clinton HP22 5EZ, 9am-1pm (also August 23). August 11- 12 On the Trent & Mersey Canal at Millvale Street, Middleport, ST6 3NQ, 10am-4pm (also August 18-19). August 12 Grand Union Canal, Stoke Bruerne NN12 7SW, 10am-4pm (also August 23, 4-8pm). August 16 Tesco Service Road, Aylesbury HP20 1PQ, 9am-1pm. August 18 Startope End, Marsworth, Buckinghamshire HP23 4LJ, 11am-4pm. August 2 0 The Waters Edge (opposite Sealife Centre), Brindley Place, Birmingham B1 2HL, 10am-4pm. August 2 7 Wrinehill Road, Wybunbury CW5 7NU, 10am-4.30pm. For further dates and booking details, visit www.canalrivertrust.org.uk and click on enjoy the waterways/fishing/lets-fish.
108 WET WEB
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The Wet Web
As the Freshwater Habitats Trust celebrates a landmark anniversary, Helen Gazeley looks at its achievements. TO REACH 30 might not seem so remarkable, but it’s a creditable milestone for a small conservation trust with limited resources. Happy birthday, Freshwater Habitats Trust! When it was co-founded by director Jeremy Biggs in 1988, freshwater biologists tended to begin a career by looking at ponds but then move on to greater bodies of water. As a result, information about pond ecology lagged behind by half a century. “Small water bodies would be seen as much less important,” said Jeremy. “Probably our greatest achievement in the
last 30 years has been to make people change how important they think ponds and small water bodies are. Where they used to say ‘rivers and lakes’, now they increasingly say ‘rivers, lakes, ponds and streams’. The use of the word colours the way they see the world.” This change is a direct result of research conducted by the trust, which set the benchmark for high-quality ponds with the National Pond Survey in the early 1990s. It’s still used today. A few years later their study comparing biodiversity of ponds with that of rivers and lakes – already recognised as highly important – really stirred things up, resulting in ponds receiving Priority Habitat status. With the aim of the trust having always been to protect freshwater wildlife by gathering evidence on the condition of freshwaters around the country and examining conservation interventions to see what really works, they also established the 40-pond complex at Pinkhill Meadow, near Oxford, to experiment with pond design. This is the best-monitored pond complex in Britain. Most recently, Dexter cattle have been introduced to graze during the winter months. Ongoing projects include the
The Dragonfly gift box from Lifeforms Art. Thirty per cent of profit on all the dragonfly range goes to the Freshwater Habitats Trust. PHOTO: LIFEFORMS ART
The Freshwater Habitats Trust’ s Northern England regional officer Anne Carter models Lifeform Art’ s dragonfl y T- shirt on a newt survey in M ay this year.
The fairy shrimp lives only in a few seasonal ponds ( ponds that dry up and fill again in wet periods, when the shrimp eggs that survive in the mud hatch and grow and mate q uickly before the pond dries again) . The Freshwater Habitats Trust is working to protect the very special areas in the New Forest where fairy shrimps can still be found.
Million Ponds Project, to create a network of clean waterbodies across the UK; People, Ponds and Water, to monitor, manage and protect freshwater wildlife; PondNet, a volunteer survey on trends in pond quality and species; and Flagship Ponds, which helps communities protect the most important freshwater pond sites in England and Wales. There’s still a long way to go, however. “The biggest worry,” said Jeremy, “is the all-pervasive pollution of freshwater. Everyone is excited about plastic partly because you can see it easily, but water is massively over-fertilised with nutrients, and there are micro-pollutants from industry and pharmaceuticals.” Although awareness of the importance of ponds is much higher than in 1988, this
hasn’t translated into official recognition. “Our main failure is that we haven’t fully succeeded in influencing legislation. The Water Framework Directive excludes small water bodies, and the Twenty-Five Year Environment Plan – the flag around which everyone is planting themselves – refers to the language of the Water Framework Directive, with careful placement of words to ensure small waters are excluded.” The reason for this? “It would create too much administrative burden to implement.” However, despite ongoing concerns, there is much to celebrate, as well as an enormous amount of information now available, thanks to the trust’s work. If you’re worried about your garden pond drying up in
PHOTO: FRESHWATER HABITATS TRUST.
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with year for the waterway’ s restoration Canal at Frankton. This is a big paper... and the entrance locks to the M ontgomery 4 , advertisement on page 6 and leafl et inserted within the Cracker tows fl y- boat Saturn down starting on page its 3 5- mile length. S ee feature progress and events all along 116. PHOTO: WATERWAY IMAGES of course Cracker’ s Chat on page Continued on page 3
Breach repairs could be delayed by the REPAIRS to the breach on Middlewich Branch of the Shropshire Union Canal were still to be scheduled as Towpath Talk went to press. Survey information showed that 2800 was cubic metres of the embankment washed away and will need to be replaced – amounting to more than 200 lorry loads.
The presence of badger setts could also delay work starting while the necessary disturbance licence is obtained. A Canal & River Trust spokesman this told Towpath Talk: “We can’t at It is stage give an estimate of timings. at difficult to do this with any certainty the moment.
DODGERS DOWN Trust’s annual national boat
THE Canal & River its waterways count shows that licence evasion on of boats is at its lowest-ever level, with 96.9% 96.3%). holding up-to-date licences (2017: reported Interim head of boating Jon Horsfall waters as they 108 boats were removed from CRT terms and were unlicensed or in breach of its picture of the conditions. The figures also paint a the country. changing numbers of boats across growth CRT waterways in London have seen than 9% in slowing: up 2.4%, compared to more of 2.3%, 2016/17. The North also saw an increase while other areas remained static.
badger setts
to “We would expect to be in a position confirm realistic budgets and timescales by the end of May, but at the moment our best estimate is that repairs would take six months at a cost of between has £2-3 million.” In the meantime CRT help to launched an emergency appeal fund the repair bill.
KILL THE ENGINE has a blunt warning for
THE Boat Safety Scheme can smell boaters using petrol engines – if you engine(s) and exhaust fumes in the boat, kill the (CO) risk get out fast. A major carbon monoxide engines comes from either big inboard petrol poisonous producing lethal volumes of the highly and other portable gas in seconds, or from outboards cabin. Over the engines steadily increasing CO in the people have died previous two boating seasons four treatment and another two had emergency medical inside when engine-exhaust gases were drawn For safety through the open flaps of cockpit covers. eme.org/co information see www.boatsafetysch
It is believed that the most likely cause was an increased flow of water along gates the canal due to paddles at lock have being left open. This is thought to site overtopped the canal at the breach which, together with an already sodden embankment following a wet winter, caused the bank to wash away.
BOATING ON RISE UK adults took part in one or A RECORD 3.96 million 2017, according more of 12 core boating activities in Survey. This to the annual Watersports Participation this research is the highest volume recorded since has also was first launched in 2002. Boat ownership increased, with more than 690,000 boat-owning motor boating households in the UK. Canoeing and of canal popularity the and increases largest saw the remains boating and stand-up paddleboarding boating and motor sailing, in growth The strong. news for canal boating was described as excellent by British companies boat hire and boatbuilders Marine chief executive Howard Pridding.
18/04/2018 16:45:52
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The Pinkhill M eadow between Farmoor R eservoir and the Thames near O xford. PHOTO: FRESHWATER HABITATS TRUST the current hot weather, you’ll find reassurance on their website (https://freshwaterhabitats.org. uk/pond-clinic). As part of the celebrations, Lifeforms Art (lifeformsart. co.uk) has produced a special range of products and, by coincidence, Lifeforms’ Ian Hughes, who creates the artwork, is also enjoying a significant anniversary. In the last 20 years, since setting up the business, he’s engaged in many hands-on conservation projects and his blog makes clear just how hands-on he can be. You may have spotted Smash 27, his Tadpole Shrimp, on the BBC’s Autumnwatch last year. The species’ survival is in part down
to his involvement in a Species Recovery Programme begun in 1995. More recently he’s created miniature thatched roofs to test the theory that the extremely rare and rather gorgeous Scarlet Malachite Beetle is dependent on thatch to breed. His beautifully written blog is both entertaining and informative: read Crabs – A Childhood Memory for excellent story-telling. Ian’s Dragonfly gift range includes Fair Wear T-shirts in organic cotton and notebooks using FSC certified paper printed in Ceredigion, Wales. Thirty per cent of profits from sales go to the Freshwater Habitats Trust (freshwaterhabitats.org.uk).
Do you have a favourite blog or website? Email Helen at helengazeley@aol.com
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TALKBACK 109
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TALKBACK We need to work together I WAS so disappointed to read Towpath Talk’s front page (News, Issue 153, July) with reference to wide beam boats. I would have thought that the new licensing fee would have been applauded by the wide beam owners, the license fee being biased in their favour. When a wide beam is bought it is with the knowledge there are obvious restrictions and in no way would a wide beam be purchased to travel the entire network; advice on this was clearly stated in a recent article from the Canal & River Trust. The majority of narrowboats also only cruise within their own locations. The argument that has been brought forward is inappropriate. My experience of wide beam boat owners is that they bought their boat
more for a lifestyle change; this also could be said of a lot of narrowboat owners who do not travel. I believe it is time for narrowboat owners to form their own action group and ask for equal treatment on the licensing fees which could mean a reduction for the narrowboat owners. Adopting a system based on length and width for all canal boat users is the way forward, as fairness needs to prevail. We need to find a way to work together so everyone enjoys the canal – be it to travel, live, work or even just visit. I urge CRT to think outside of the box and look for harmony and accommodate all equally. P Haslett By email
Narrowboat chimney from historic forge
Blacksmith Jamie Simmons with the narrowboat chimney. PHOTO SUPPLIED
WE WERE recently in Banbury and visited the chandlery at Tooley’s Boatyard. Since buying our narrowboat we have found that the off-the-shelf chimneys we have bought have had relatively short lives, even though they are rubbed down and painted regularly. In Tooley’s we met Jamie Simmons, a blacksmith, who makes beautiful chimneys and many other metal narrowboat accoutrements to order, and quickly too, in the Tooley’s very own forge which dates back to 1788! We are now the proud owners of one of Jamie’s creations to our spec and it fits perfectly. Jamie has assured us that it will last at least 20 years! Lena Croucher By email
Living ‘on the job’ could help prevent problems I READ with interest the article (Talkback, Issue 153, July) by Major (ret’d) David Scowcroft of nb Mr David, regarding the Canal & River Trust rebranding and the poor level of maintenance of some parts of the system. There does seem to be a feeling among boaters that they are being overshadowed by other activities that don’t actually provide much income for maintenance, when the primary role of our canals and rivers is for boats and maintaining the water course. Mr Scowcroft makes the point too, that expensive incidents like the Middlewich breach and the ‘second’ Marple stoppage could have been prevented by more regular visits by experienced lengthsmen. I think that there is a fundamental problem here; the cost-cutting measures over the years, selling canalside CRT properties and reducing the 24-hour presence of CRT employees with great experience next to the job,
has reduced the ability to spot problems at an early stage. The savings made by selling these properties is a shortterm gain but it undermines the care of the system. The presence of these staff living beside our waterways also deterred vandalism, and they could report inappropriate behaviour quickly to the police before it was too serious. From my experience, there is a parallel here when in London, the local council housing authority withdrew live-in caretakers to replace them with mobile cleaners; the end result was that many housing estates became vandalised, drug-dealing ghettos, no-go areas where no decent people wanted to live. The canals and rivers need staff living on site to oversee them to help to prevent breaches, and their mere presence will deter vandalism and poor behaviour. In the long run this will SAVE money! Lewis Esposito, Wales By email
Your chance to write to us on any Towpath topic: Towpath Talk, PO Box 43, Horncastle, Lincs LN9 6LZ editorial@towpathtalk.co.uk
Towpath users should contribute to their upkeep I HAVE been a boater for some 20 years and have a 23ft Viking moored on home moorings on the River Lee. I can’t understand why we boaters continue to be exploited with the constant increases in mooring and river licences. I don’t mind paying my share of costs with my boating hobby, however why can’t the cyclists and walkers contribute to costs of the towpaths which they use? Even if a cyclist paid £20 per year, walkers £10, children and dogs free, this would help ease the pressure on us boaters with future financial costs. Canal & River Trust please note. Ray Hough By email
Poor old wide beamers WE HAVE followed the articles and opinions regarding the change of charges for wide beams. Having discussed this with others we have come to the following opinion. When we decided to buy our own boat we thought deeply about where we wanted to go and what we wanted to experience. It was decided that we wanted a narrowboat to enable us to navigate most of the canal system. We also had decided that we wanted to navigate the Huddersfield Narrow Canal and traverse the Standedge tunnel (3.25 miles long) which takes an hour and 45 minutes to complete. This meant our narrowboat had to be no more than 57ft. We ended up with a 55ft boat. A wide beam user selected their boat
because they most likely wanted more room. In doing so they, having done their research, knew in advance that they were limiting their ability to navigate all the canal system because it was the comfort and amenities that they can have that I would not be able to put in my boat. I will therefore pay a smaller licence than a same length wide beam because I chose (in effect) a smaller property. We have a large house and get placed in band ‘E’. If I had bought a terraced two-up and two-down I would be paying rates in band ‘A’. The lesson is really simple when compared with the rating system; if you want more floor/cabin space then it will cost more in rates or licence. Dave Bedford Nb Rose Marie
An open letter to Richard Parry (Canal & River Trust) I HAVE just read about the Canal & River Trust’s rebranding and your statement on the boaters’ update. I don't see a need for a change of logo. I also can’t see how the average punter will see the new logo’s relevance to a canal. PR and media is not my area of expertise and I may be wrong, I know some find the new logo attractive. I think you have far greater problems than the need for a new logo, it’s the trust’s identity and purpose that needs sorting. The biggest problem I see is the name. It does not reflect the purpose for which the trust was set up, that is to manage the inland navigations of England and Wales. What percentage of rivers come into the bailiwick of the trust – 1% or less and they are navigable waterways. Therefore a much more appropriate name would be The Inland Navigations Trust or The Inland Waterways Trust. I believe that our trustees should be educated on the subject of our purpose when taking up office. We are not a nature reserve and not an income generating tourist attraction, excluding a few parking fees here and there. You do have a good record for attracting people to the waterways and this could be built on by improving towpaths rather than spending lots on a few honeypot attractions. The main responsibility of the trust is to maintain the built heritage of the navigations along with the waterways themselves. Showing people what they are and engaging them in caring for our infrastructure and heritage as well as encouraging their use are all part of this. Our income is mainly generated by our inherited waterside estate, from the boating community, and topped up by government grants. A few quid comes in from voluntary contributions which most likely cost more to raise its value. I do not see any income from the environmental preservationist, although I would expect the trust to take environmental issues into account when
carrying out navigation management. I do not see why we should lead in this area which is funded by government through other bodies and/or specialist charities. Take the greening of the canals by planting coir rolls to help ‘save the voles’. No wonder our previous pragmatic leader Robin Evans ran a mile when faced with this policy. As a result of the above policy those of us who navigate the canals, have to cope with the following: 1 Floating grass narrowing the navigation and tangling our props 2 Reed beds narrowing the navigation, reducing mooring places 3 Nettles and brambles overwhelming the wild flowers plantings and reducing moorings and narrowing the navigation 4 Saplings growing on the towpath edge, again reducing moorings 5 In places the canals have been reduced by more than 3m in width. This results in boats being bumped by others and/or scratched by overhanging vegetation. Another policy that has dubious value is that of outsourcing the management of ground maintenance; the result is a degradation of our towpaths and moorings. If a British Waterways worker missed a bit on the way out he would get to it on the way back. Fountains are paid for a pass and that is what they supply, if someone is in the way it’s not their fault. Still it’s early days, I’m sure you will recognise some of the issues as you go along. Also who am I to complain, just because I spend over £2500 a year between mooring fees and licence to the trust for the use of the navigations. To be honest in the 11 years I have been on the ‘cut’ doing all of the trust’s joined-up navigations plus some of others, I think I have most likely had more than good value for my money. My main motivation for writing this letter is not axe grinding. It’s a
genuine concern that the trust’s canals and rivers in your care are sustained for the purposes they were built or adapted – navigation. I ask you, Richard, if you could work primarily on returning the navigations to the condition they were in when the trust took them over. John Catterson Nb The Cat Richard Parry replied: Our rebranding and positioning is important for the future of navigation – by mobilising the support of those who have waterways on their doorstep and yielding benefits to them as well, we can ensure that what might otherwise be seen as a minority interest for the enthusiasts alone becomes instead a mass movement with millions of supporters. Crucially, this will give us the greatest chance of securing the future funding we need, to care for the waterways as effectively as we do today for years to come. It is reassuring that in your comments you recognise our success in attracting many more people to the waterways. Your closing comment summarises much of your specific concern about our priorities. We see our role as stewards of the waterways in our care in perpetuity, with boats and navigation at the heart of what we do. To keep the waterways operational and safe for navigation our annual expenditure is close to £150 million per annum. There will always be faults to fix, repairs to make, and emergencies to respond to; our rising expenditure and evolving longer term strategic approach to managing the waterways means applying our resources in the most effective way for the longer term. Part of this evolution means finding ways to better understand and respond to those priorities that are important to our customers.
Is your voice being heard? No? Then read on . . . ARE you feeling marginalised? Do you want your voice to be heard? These are questions being asked by the National Association of Boat Owners (NABO). As the recently published boaters’ survey shows, boaters are less satisfied by the Canal & River Trust’s performance than they were a year ago. NABO is the only national association that solely represents boat owners, no matter how or where you use your boat. Our volunteer managing council are all boat owners, from a wide range of
backgrounds and boat usage. With CRT’s focus moving away from boating to the wider fuzziness of well-being, the relevance of NABO as an association that represents and promotes boaters’ views is more important than ever. NABO has, in the past, sought legal advice when challenging CRT’s proposed policy changes and will continue to do so if necessary. Join us and your support will help us monitor and proactively engage with
CRT and the Environment Agency (EA) to ensure that safe, well-maintained navigations and facilities remain at the forefront of their thinking. The increasing number of stoppages, changes to licence terms and conditions, licence costs and moorings are all issues that directly affect our members. NABO provides representatives to technical committees and advisory groups and ensures that our members’ views are heard at a local and national level.
As a member, you will benefit from om ur a monthly email news bulletin and our ine, highly regarded bi-monthly magazine, NABO News. Members also have access to a boat insurance discount count scheme with a reputable broker. Now is the time to make yourself rself heard. To become a member, go to www.nabo.org.uk and click on the ‘join us’ tab. Or see the pinned post on our Facebook page, or email contactus@ s@ nabo.org.uk d to welcoming you! We look forward
110 THE LAST WORD
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TOWPATH TITTER
CRACKER’S CHAT
Ramblings of a narrowboat horse on the Montgomery Canal
Our light-hearted look at life on the cut has a bovine theme this month.
“Arddleen to Refail, vlogs, slogs and not forgetting logs!” SOMETIMES I get a little bit ahead of myself, but I’m always ahead of Countess. Nevertheless, when I predicted in my previous Chat that the Welshpool Transport Festival was going to be a success, I didn’t realise that I was grossly underestimating the event and the interest it generated. The adventure started for Countess with a huge forklift truck, followed by a lorry and finishing with a very impressive crane. All this was required to transport her from Maesbury to Gungrog (only 14 miles). If the six-mile dry section around Pant and Llanymynech was restored I could have towed her there myself and saved a ruck of money! Blessed by good weather, the crowds (probably because England not Wales were kicking a bag of wind around a football field) turned out and we were inundated with requests for trips. We put on extra cruises both days, and by Sunday evening the entire team (not me because I’ve got the easy job) were out on their feet. Mind you, it’s totally understandable because it’s like the Rolling Stones on tour! The combined ages of all six crew members (not counting my 14) comes to 356 years. Now do you believe me when I keep appealing
for some younger, fresher blood to join our team? (More on this later). After a rest day to recover, we were all out again on the Tuesday to film a vlog (like a blog, but using video) of our horse-boating adventures. David Johns drove from Rugby to spend a very pleasant day with us and has put together a lovely, vignette video. Follow him on Twitter @ CruisingTheCut and watch the video on YouTube (https:// youtu.be/XoyyqFrYASg).
Landlocked idyll
During our stay on this isolated section of the Monty, we have been treated like royalty, welcomed wherever we went and have achieved our objective of travelling the 12-mile length of navigable canal. Moorings, unsurprisingly because there are only three other boats on this ‘landlocked’ idyll, were plentiful and vacant! It was not all plain sailing though, sometimes the ‘bottom was a bit too near the top’, the weed (water lilies, duck and pondweed) was a bit thick and stiff lock mechanisms taxed aching muscles. All-in-all, they made it a bit of a slog! Did you see what I did there?
Eddie Barford tells us: “The upper Thames to Lechlade is beautiful with buttercup-laden meadows but few moorings. Get to Lechlade and it becomes ‘Licklade’ when the herd of heifers on the town’s moorings start enjoying the soot and salt from the boats... this boater lost his TV aerial.”
Countess being taken for ride! PHOTOS SUPPLIED Anyway, suffice to say that we are being enticed, indeed courted, to stay on this section. We’ve agreed an extension to take in the annual Country Music Festival (in its 31st year), which will allow us to take out many more customers over the weekend of July 13-15. Please note: no six-guns allowed on board or spurs on the towpath! Yee-ha! By the time you read this we will have returned to Maesbury for a well-earned rest. It’s been amazing having lots of ‘footfall’, plenty of interest in the Monty restoration project which is gathering momentum and being able to make use of the 12
miles of water on the Welshpool section. In the words of Arnie: “I’ll be back...”
Building connections
We are a community-focused, altruistic association that believes in creating opportunities to build connections. We may officially be a business, rather than an expensive hobby, but we believe in value-added in society terms, not hard cash. That’s why we are offering work placements to the bored, undervalued teenagers, who thought it ‘clever’ to dance on Countess’s roof one night after hours, before jumping into the cut, while she was moored in
Welshpool (caught on CCTV, not by a bobby on the beat!). Come and join us boys and girls, we’ll train you, give you a purpose in life and instil some self-respect and self-esteem into your future. Ed: Phew Cracker! That was one of your lengthier and more meaningful diatribes. Yes, but I mean it! Everywhere I go, I witness the younger generation being subjected to an educational system designed to pass meaningless exams, instead of giving them the useful tools of practical life. So, stop asking them to fill in useless logs and show them how to source, chop, stack and burn actual logs (environmentally, sustainable ones obviously!) Until next time, may your bucket be full of carrots.
Love Cracker If you would like to
The A483 at northern end of the isolated section at Arddleen.
A horse’s eye view as we approach the southern end on the navigable Monty at Refail.
comment on any of Cracker’s remarks, please get in touch via email at hello@bywatercruises. co.uk or on Twitter @ bywater_holiday or follow him on Facebook under BoatHorseCracker.
Jacky Atkins of nb Compton thought we might like to warn fellow boaters about a possible hairy scare as you round the bend by bridge 39 on the Llangollen Canal. She writes: “This Highland cow was obviously feeling the heat and cooling off, but it did give us a bit of a shock. The horns were very large!” If you have a suitable photo or anecdote we can share with our readers, please send it to Towpath Talk, PO Box 43, Horncastle, Lincs LN9 6JR or email: editorial@ towpathtalk.co.uk And don’t forget you can also follow us on Twitter @towpathtalk and on Facebook
Don’t forget the well-being of boaters Mark Tizard, co vice-chairman of the National Association of Boat Owners (NABO), comments on some more topical issues. NABO had an article published in last month’s Towpath Talk (News, Issue 153, July) principally about the growing disenfranchisement of boaters who feel forgotten by the Canal & River Trust in the rush to promote the feeling of well-being of other canalside users. The publication of the latest boaters’ survey provides a timely reminder of the challenges ahead. After six years of being responsible for the upkeep of the majority of the nation’s canals and rivers, only around 50% know and feel favourable towards the trust. This
must surely be of serious concern to both CRT and the Government who no doubt are still hoping to transfer responsibility for Environment Agency waters to the trust. In the six years since CRT took over from BW (British Waterways) we are on our fourth head of boating (I assume we might have a fifth shortly with Jon Horsfall’s recent promotion); this lack of consistency must contribute to some of the dissatisfaction. Some figures stick out: one in particular is a drop of 6% since 2017 in boaters’ satisfaction of the
cruising experience. Since the survey was carried out we have had further closures such as the Marple flight. The proportion of boaters who trust CRT to look after the waterways has dropped 3% since last year.
Alive and kicking
There is an opportunity here for the new regional directors to take a good hard look at these figures and ask themselves what they could do to effect change and if it’s ‘well-being’ that is to be the core focus now then please don’t forget the well-being of boaters. What is it the majority of boaters want? I suggest not slick marketing spin but just the simple things like enough water to navigate, usable locks, accessible services and
moorings. However let’s be positive, we have just cruised from Foxton along the length of the Coventry and Staffordshire & Worcestershire canals down to Stourport and are now returning. I can report that the sense of camaraderie that exists among boaters is still alive and kicking. An example would be from the way we all helped each other past a fallen tree to a tow of a broken-down boater repaid with a pint several days later and brief exchanges of gossip and information at locks or moorings as we leapfrog each other up the cut. After some 30 years this hasn’t changed. If CRT could harness this spirit like they do with some volunteers attitudes would change. Can I suggest that for every wellness
promotion for towpath users we have one aimed at boaters about the little fixes – paddles, water levels, spot dredging etc. These are the things that really matter to us as opposed to the cosmetics of signage and painted lock gates. One thing I have noticed is the number of spaces at some of CRT’s long-term mooring sites, this may be evidence of the success of the threats of a £150 fine. However either the price is too high for the area or perhaps the spaces exist as part of the deal with marina operators to reduce towpath moorings as berths are created. At Newbold and Gailey some of these spaces here and elsewhere could become visitor moorings; some easy, good PR for CRT.
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