Moving forward ollowing the decisions made in the latter part of 2007 and so far during 2008, the financial position of both the Trust and its trading arm have much improved. Whereas Enterprise had become a drain on Trust finances, the trading arm now makes a contribution to the aims and objectives of the Trust. This year’s Enterprise figures are very good to date, despite the early Easter and poor weather. All trading outlets are doing well and meeting or beating their targets. The success of Enterprise is essential to support the cost of running the Trust and carrying out our aims. In the short term the Trust has also been very successful in identifying and gaining funds for specific projects.
F
Picture the Past Project The museum archive has a significant collection of canal photos which we wish to digitise
and make available for research purposes. The Big Lottery has awarded us £8,500 and Kennet District Council £1,500, which will fully fund the project.
In addition to this, BW have offered the Trust ownership of the Pumping Station, which we are considering.
Crofton Rivet Appeal
Our website is being redesigned and will include many new features that will help to promote the Trust as well as selling many of our products.
This is already off to a great start with almost £10,000 raised.
Bone Mill Sluices
Website revamp
The Trust has been a partner in the negotiations with The Environment Agency to replace the Bone Mill Sluices in Newbury. Through tax effective giving we will have raised £33,360, which includes the Trust’s Contribution of £10,000 and three other private contributions totalling £20,000.
Meeting the members
Claverton
Looking forward
We have already got planning permission for a new car park, but we need to buy the land and build it. We have promises for funds to cover the purchase so we are on our way.
We still have a job to do to bring our finances together, but Council is confident that we have turned the corner.
Trust Council has decided to rotate its meeting venues so that Council can get out and meet members locally, with local members welcome to join Trust Council for refreshments and to discuss local issues for an hour from 6.30 pm.
Later this summer, Council will publish a full plan for the Trust.
The Trust Grand Draw The six lucky winners: ARL Fitch from Swindon wins a one-week Hotel Boat Holiday for two donated by Thames and Chilton Holiday Cruises Mr JS Sykes of Harrogate wins a Canal Boat Holiday for two to the value of £750 www.ukboathire.com JB Knight from Bath wins a case of wine donated by Newbury Boat Company Mrs A Munroe from Stevenage wins a selection of Canal Books Charles and Pat Garven from Saltford win a free annual subscription to the K&A Canal Trust Peter Knowlson of Eldersfield Marsh wins a selection of cuddly toys The profit from the raffle will be in the region of £2000 — thanks to everyone who took part and many thanks to the sponsors of the prizes that made it all possible.
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