Welcome to the Autumn edition of Cargoes. Well, we got to Crick a day later than arranged, and we did manage to have 3 weeks on the River Thames and help on the IWA’s stand at Reading and Guildford. Now the Thames is back on red and amber boards and lock closures are imminent!.
Many thanks to all contributors for the articles and photos you have supplied for this edition of Cargoes. I hope everyone enjoys reading them.
Chris Jones, Editor
Photo courtesy of Graham Puddephatt
K&ACT
IWA AGM
This was held in Leicester this year at the university. Congratulations to the IWA Leicester branch and the team from Chesham who managed the best AGM that I have attended in quite some while.
Sue O’Hare, Deputy National Chair and leader of the Navigation Committee, (Navcom) spoke of the issues that have arisen this year. These have included responding to three consultations on reservoirs, responding to boat licence fees issues with many waterway authorities and representing IWA on many national liaison committees.
Mike Palmer spoke on the place of new restorations in the work of IWA and how these can enhance the local area for everyone, not just boaters.
Bowman Bradley spoke on the developments of alternative energy sources and the snags and benefits. He pointed out that there is access to information via the IWA website.
Mike Wallis, National Chair, spoke on the achievements for the last year, the finances now in a much healthier state and the addition of specialist staff and volunteers who will enhance the trustees and staff teams
Fund Britain’s
Waterways
Since the General Election the government has been stressing that it has inherited a very poor financial situation, to prepare us all for tax increases and reduced government expenditure. Not an encouraging message, unless it succeeds in creating economic growth and generating more income. Against this background FBW’s position has been to look for a commitment to a review of the funding for navigation authorities.
Verna Smith
Matilda at Reading Water Fest
4
We set out our “ask” in the FBW represen tation to the Autumn Budget 2024 (see the press release and the full submission at www.waterways.org.uk/wpcontent/uploads/2024/09/Media-Release-Representation-to-Autumn-2024Budget.pdf ). Unlike the NHS the waterways have not yet been described as broken. I can hear the reaction to that comment from some quarters!
A Social Media Push from 4th to 13th October was aimed at increasing signatures on the petition at www.change.org/p/fundbritainswaterways by highlighting what the nation may lose if our waterways are not properly funded. If you haven’t already signed please do so and also encourage your friends and family to sign too. The government needs to appreciate just how many people value our inland waterways and hopefully the numb er of signatures will now increase significantly.
FBW banners are increasingly being displayed around the waterways.
Could you display a banner? Please let us know by emailing info@fundbritainswaterways.org.uk .
We have arranged an FBW session wi th the Middle Level Commissioners (MLC) on Wednesday 20th November 2024. Questions submitted by FBW members will be answered in depth by MLC and the session will be live streamed for FBW members. If you would like more details please contact info@fundbritainswaterways.org.uk . We are also talking with the Environment Agency about a session in early 2025.
FBW has been funded from donations from member organisations and individuals for which we are very grateful. Current funds are around £4,000. We are trying to arrange a reception at Westminster next year to get the FBW message across to MPs face to face. Receptions at Westminster are very expensive, and we need to raise funds to meet the costs. To make a donation please either make a bank transfer (which avoids any costs) by requesting bank details from info@fundbritainwaterways.org.uk or use https://justgiving.com/campaign/fbw . Thank you for your support.
Thank you in advance for your help.
Les
Etheridge, Chair of Fund Britain's Waterways
Guildford & Reading Branch
Branch Chairman
We enjoyed a successful day at the Guildford Water Festival and were joined by Maria and Dave Hearnden from the Waterways Recovery group (WRG). We had received some donated goods which helped to raise a modest amount of money and thanks to John Jones and Ben Scott, the Lock Game also raised some funds. It is always a good event for networking and Chris Jones was able to book the café for the branch AGM next Year.
The Wey and Arun Canal Trust asked me if I might become their canal centre manager at Loxwood, which I declined!
Our next event will be the Reading Water Fest on Saturday 28th August 2025. Volunteers are needed to help please.
Verna Smith
(Chair)
Sales & Publicity Stand
We have attended two shows this year, Reading Water Fest in June and Wey River Festival in September. Both were very well attended and funds were raised for the branch. We are supporting IWA Oxfordshire with the Banbury Weekend. Next year we are planning to attend Reading Water Fest and Wey River festival again. Please do let us know if you can help at any of these events. We are really in need of additional help and hope more of you will put yourselves forward. Please contact Chris Jones or any member of the Sales Team if you can help at any of the events, our email address is: chris.jones@waterways.org.uk.
The Sales Team
Future Events
Mon 10th Mar, 6.30 for 7.00pm: G&R AGM, Dapdune Wharf Tea Rooms, Wharf Road, Guildford, GU1 4RR Sat 28th Jun: Reading Water Fest
Date to be advised: Wey River Festival, Dapdune Wharf, Guildford, GU1 4RR
Waiting for the Illuminated boats at the Wey River Festival
Basingstoke Canal Society
Basingstoke Canal Calendar on sale now! Following a successful annual calendar competition, winners have been selected and our 2025 calendar is now on sale. The calendar is made up for beautiful photos of the Basingstoke Canal through the seasons from various locations and viewpoints.
Costing only £8.50 including postage, the calendar not only helps raise vital funds for the Basingstoke Canal Society but also makes a wonderful Christmas gift for family, friends or maybe to yourself!
2025 Basingstoke Canal Calendar – The Basingstoke Canal Society (basingstokecanal.org.uk)
Corporate Volunteering on the Basingstoke Canal
This year we have seen phenomenal interest from local companies looking to do their bit in the local area, recognising the importance of this beautiful outdoor space for physical and mental health in addition to all the economic and nature benefits. Year to date we have had over 400 corporate volunteers join us contributing over 2000 hours doing valuable work including painting, clearing and cleaning the space for others to enjoy. We extend our thanks to all these companies and look forward to many more joining us.
Rare First World War Bridge granted listed status
An unassuming metal bridge which crosses the Basingstoke Canal at Aldershot is now listed at Grade II thanks to its unusual military history.
The bridge near Aldershot is one of only ten Inglis Pyramid Bridges known to have been manufactured during the 1914–1918 conflict and is likely to be the only example still in use as a bridge in England.
This was the first portable bridge designed by War Office engineer Charles Inglis. Made of lightweight steel it was quick and easy to construct with little training and could be reused.
The structure’s listed status has been awarded by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport on the advice of Historic England.
Charlotte Rodgers, Press Officer BCS
Boat Trips: The John Pinkerton II trip boat operates from Odiham in Hampshire, running public, themed and chartered cruises. Trips last about 3.25 hours and run through farms, woodlands and the occasional small settlement.
Information for times and prices for trips and how to charter the boat for a special occasion or social outing is available on our website: https://basingstokecanal.org.uk/book-your-trip/. All bookings are done online but for help email: jpbookings@basingstoke-canal.org.uk, or call: 07506 864411 (10am – 6pm).
Kitty public boat trips are at 11am, 1pm and 2.45pm from the town wharf in Woking.
Trips from Mytchett: Boat trips on board our friendly 12-seater boat Rosebud usually run at weekends and on public holidays from Easter to September. Please contact us for up to date information. Tel 01252 370073, email info@basingstokecanal.co.uk or check on Facebook or Twitter.
Focus on Accessible Boating Association
The Accessible Boating Association, (ABA), is a registered charity initiated in 1985. The charity enables people who cannot use existing canal boats to enjoy cruises on the Basingstoke Canal.
Two boats are available: Madam Butterfly, a comfortable 7-berth cruising boat and Dawn, a 12-person day boat. Both boats are based in Odiham at Galleon Marine’s boatyard with trips operating from Colt Hill Wharf from April to October.
For more details see the website www.accessibleboating.org.uk. New volunteers are always welcome; speak to one of our volunteers or contact our Chairman, John Ranson at chairman@accessibleboating.org.uk
Byfleet Boat Club
On 19th September
Byfleet Boat Club had a surprise visit from Robbie Cumming on Naughty Lass, star of the BBC Series “Canal Boat Diaries”. Robbie had ventured up the Wey from Oxford and the Thames. He chatted with a group of club members and did some filming, so we hope to see the club featured in Series 6 to be broadcast next year.
Chichester Ship
Canal Trust
Education on the Canal - Canal trips specifically designed for parties of school students
Chichester Canal is a precious resource which we feel should be enjoyed by everyone. Many schools build “learning outside the classroom” into the curriculum where there are so many opportunities to experience the fun of learning in the natural world. The Education Team who volunteer at the Canal, are former teachers and are enthusiastic about sharing their knowledge and love of the Canal and would like school children to learn about :
Mike Chamberlain
1. The wildlife which inhabits the Canal – how/where they nest and their lifecycle
1. The wildlife which inhabits the Canal – how/where they nest and their lifecycle
1. The wildlife which inhabits the Canal – how/where they nest and their lifecycle
1. The wildlife which inhabits the Canal – how/where they nest and their lifecycle
2. The biodiversity of the Canal including the plants, hedgerows, towpath verges and waterway banks
2. The biodiversity of the Canal including the plants, hedgerows, towpath verges and waterway banks
2. The biodiversity of the Canal including the plants, hedgerows, towpath verges and waterway banks
2. The biodiversity of the Canal including the plants, hedgerows, towpath verges and waterway banks
3. How we all play a part in the relationsh ip with the creatures who live in and around the Canal
3. How we all play a part in the relationsh ip with the creatures who live in and around the Canal
3. How we all play a part in the relationsh ip with the creatures who live in and around the Canal
3. How we all play a part in the relationsh ip with the creatures who live in and around the Canal
4. How we look after the Canal with the aim of preserving the wildlife and habitat along the banks so we can all enjoy what this area has to offer.
4. How we look after the Canal with the aim of preserving the wildlife and habitat along the banks so we can all enjoy what this area has to offer.
4. How we look after the Canal with the aim of preserving the wildlife and habitat along the banks so we can all enjoy what this area has to offer.
4. How we look after the Canal with the aim of preserving the wildlife and habitat along the banks so we can all enjoy what this area has to offer.
The activities and the wide range of curriculum related topics are linked to Key Stages 1 & 2 and working jointly with school staff, we aim to complement the school timetable. For the budding artists, there is the opportunity to sketch and write; science enthusiasts can check the variety of life in the water and maths includes a number (how many can you spot?) and helping the scientist measure their creepy crawlies! We are also able to cater for pupils who have special educational needs. The Canal History page acts as an introduction to the trip.
The activities and the wide range of curriculum related topics are linked to Key Stages 1 & 2 and working jointly with school staff, we aim to complement the school timetable. For the budding artists, there is the opportunity to sketch and write; science enthusiasts can check the variety of life in the water and maths includes a number (how many can you spot?) and helping the scientist measure their creepy crawlies! We are also able to cater for pupils who have special educational needs. The Canal History page acts as an introduction to the trip.
The activities and the wide range of curriculum related topics are linked to Key Stages 1 & 2 and working jointly with school staff, we aim to complement the school timetable. For the budding artists, there is the opportunity to sketch and write; science enthusiasts can check the variety of life in the water and maths includes a number (how many can you spot?) and helping the scientist measure their creepy crawlies! We are also able to cater for pupils who have special educational needs. The Canal History page acts as an introduction to the trip.
The activities and the wide range of curriculum related topics are linked to Key Stages 1 & 2 and working jointly with school staff, we aim to complement the school timetable. For the budding artists, there is the opportunity to sketch and write; science enthusiasts can check the variety of life in the water and maths includes a number (how many can you spot?) and helping the scientist measure their creepy crawlies! We are also able to cater for pupils who have special educational needs. The Canal History page acts as an introduction to the trip.
Canal Trust Website
Chichester Canal Trust Website
Canal Trust Website
Canal Trust Website
Future Events
Future Events
Future Events
Future Events
Mon 28th Oct, 10am – 3pm: Halloween Spooktacular. Family Fun Day in the Canal Heritage Centre. Lots of Spooky activities, decorate a mask, toad, pebble or witches’ cat – and much more. Come in your Halloween outfit. boxoffice@chichestercanal.com 01243 771363
Mon 28th Oct, 10am – 3pm: Halloween Spooktacular. Family Fun Day in the Canal Heritage Centre. Lots of Spooky activities, decorate a mask, toad, pebble or witches’ cat – and much more. Come in your Halloween outfit. boxoffice@chichestercanal.com 01243 771363
Mon 28th Oct, 10am – 3pm: Halloween Spooktacular. Family Fun Day in the Canal Heritage Centre. Lots of Spooky activities, decorate a mask, toad, pebble or witches’ cat – and much more. Come in your Halloween outfit. boxoffice@chichestercanal.com 01243 771363
Mon 28th Oct, 10am – 3pm: Halloween Spooktacular. Family Fun Day in the Canal Heritage Centre. Lots of Spooky activities, decorate a mask, toad, pebble or witches’ cat – and much more. Come in your Halloween outfit. boxoffice@chichestercanal.com 01243 771363
Mon 2nd – Fri 6th Dec or Mon 9th – Fri 13th Dec: Adult Festive Boat Rides. Join us for a Festive Boat Ride aboard Kingfisher running at 12 noon and 1.45pm. Includes mince pie mulled wine or coffee and fruitcake £12.50 pp.
Mon 2nd – Fri 6th Dec or Mon 9th – Fri 13th Dec: Adult Festive Boat Rides. Join us for a Festive Boat Ride aboard Kingfisher running at 12 noon and 1.45pm. Includes mince pie mulled wine or coffee and fruitcake £12.50 pp.
Mon 2nd – Fri 6th Dec or Mon 9th – Fri 13th Dec: Adult Festive Boat Rides. Join us for a Festive Boat Ride aboard Kingfisher running at 12 noon and 1.45pm. Includes mince pie mulled wine or coffee and fruitcake £12.50 pp.
Mon 2nd – Fri 6th Dec or Mon 9th – Fri 13th Dec: Adult Festive Boat Rides. Join us for a Festive Boat Ride aboard Kingfisher running at 12 noon and 1.45pm. Includes mince pie mulled wine or coffee and fruitcake £12.50 pp.
1st – 24th Dec on selected times and days: Family Christmas Boat Trips. All together at Christmas. Are you ready to celebrate with us at Chichester Canal? £15 pp. Book online at www.chichestercanal.org.uk. 01243 771363.
1st – 24th Dec on selected times and days: Family Christmas Boat Trips. All together at Christmas. Are you ready to celebrate with us at Chichester Canal? £15 pp. Book online at www.chichestercanal.org.uk. 01243 771363.
1st – 24th Dec on selected times and days: Family Christmas Boat Trips. All together at Christmas. Are you ready to celebrate with us at Chichester Canal? £15 pp. Book online at www.chichestercanal.org.uk. 01243 771363.
1st – 24th Dec on selected times and days: Family Christmas Boat Trips. All together at Christmas. Are you ready to celebrate with us at Chichester Canal? £15 pp. Book online at www.chichestercanal.org.uk. 01243 771363.
Chichester
Chichester
Chichester
Kennet & Avon Canal News
Reading Branch
Chairman’s
Report
I hope you all had an enjoyable Summer,
The last time I wrote I commented on the water levels and red boards up to mid May. We are now reaching the close of September and the water levels have again reached a red board warning. This is earlier than I have known before and again raises the concerns for floods and water management.
The early rise in water flow means we have had to look at running for the winter moorings before we are once again trapped away from maintenance and workshop space.
Through the summer it has been noticeable that the number of Swallows and Grey Wagtails have been very much reduced, is it the prolonged wet weather or the lack of insects…or both that has impacted the normally numerous and fascinating aerobatic flying display?
Heading towards the autumn we have seen a buzzard perched on the overhead cable and recently saw the spooky flickering flight of a Barn Owl flying across the water meadow. With the water level again raising we found a young Roe Deer skitting around looking for some shelter and higher ground.
I can’t help feeling that the costs to provide what appears to be a growing need to manage the extremes of our navigations is going beyond the resources of a charitable function. I feel it’s time to bring the Waterways back to being a central government function with the advantage of taking a wider view. Making the waterways a manageable resource to move, direct, store and control the levels and availability of water. I have read recently of plans for new underground culverts / pipes which seem to be ludicrous when using an d adapting the existing infrastructure would be cheaper and provide some of the much-needed maintenance that the current funding is not providing.
Buzzard on overhead cable
River Debris
Reading Water Fest feels like a long while ago but is now a good memory. We had lots of smiling faces and an increase in boat attendance although we had a number that had planned to make the trip that were stopped by conditions, there were two boats who had planned to set off from Sheffield but had to resign themselves to not being able to make the dist ance in time. Likewise, we had four boats that I was told on the Friday night were still west of Newbury and were not going to make it! Our first decision for next year’s event was to move it back in the Calendar. Water Fest 2025 will be on June 28th. This will give an extra two weeks to get over the winter water issues and see the trees removed and the banks repaired. We were unable to use Huntley wharf moorings
this year due to the lack of depth against the new wharfage. This was supposed to have been taken down to 3 ft by the developer…but wasn’t!!! We are talking with Reading Borough Council and the Developers to rectify this for next year and hopefully earlier. We plan to bring one of the Bruce Boats Branch accessible boats to the Water Fest again next year and wi ll be looking for local groups who may be interested in trips in the week before and af ter Water Fest. It was felt that the music on the floating stage was much more in keeping this year and we have already begun talking to musicians to provide next year’s music.
The Aldermaston Tea Room has been well attended and our work on the “Wash / Toll Room” has been well received. With some artifacts being donated to further add to the wash house display.
We arranged to restart the Branch Winter meetings in September with our first guest speaker to be Victoria Owen talking about her new biography of LTC
Mayor and Deputy Lieutenant hitting home a point
Matilda and the Gang
Lowland Rescue at Water Fest
Rolt. Unfortunately, she was unable to attend at short notice. Our thoughts are with her and her family. We will reschedule the talk when it will be more suitable. The September meeting instead turned into a general discussion around the Trust and Branch activity and seemed to raise much interest and discussion. In October (15th) we will host Kev Maslin showing us his photographs and we hope to have the EA hydrology team talking in November.
Rolt. Unfortunately, she was unable to attend at short notice. Our thoughts are with her and her family. We will reschedule the talk when it will be more suitable. The September meeting instead turned into a general discussion around the Trust and Branch activity and seemed to raise much interest and discussion. In October (15th) we will host Kev Maslin showing us his photographs and we hope to have the EA hydrology team talking in November.
Sadly in early September we learnt that Mike Wyatt a vice president and longterm supporter and activist with the Trust has died. It is a sad loss and our condolences have been passed to his family. Mike was actively involved in the Trust and specifically the Reading branch. He was involved in the initial Reading Water Fest and led and championed subsequent events. It was only a few years ago that his own boat Moonflower last attended the event. Mike gave a presentation to the branch talking about the history of the branch and some of the parts he played. This 60 minutes presentation has been arranged into 10 minutes clips and will be available from the Trusts U-Tube channel.
Sadly in early September we learnt that Mike Wyatt a vice president and longterm supporter and activist with the Trust has died. It is a sad loss and our condolences have been passed to his family. Mike was actively involved in the Trust and specifically the Reading branch. He was involved in the initial Reading Water Fest and led and championed subsequent events. It was only a few years ago that his own boat Moonflower last attended the event. Mike gave a presentation to the branch talking about the history of the branch and some of the parts he played. This 60 minutes presentation has been arranged into 10 minutes clips and will be available from the Trusts U-Tube channel.
Keep well and look after each other.
Keep well and look after each other.
Graham Puddephatt Chair Kennet and Avon Canal Trust. Chair Reading Branch Kennet and Avon Canal Trust chair@katrust.org.uk
Graham Puddephatt Chair Kennet and Avon Canal Trust. Chair Reading Branch Kennet and Avon Canal Trust chair@katrust.org.uk
“Reading…on Kennet and oh so near the Thames” - Daniel Defoe 1724
“Reading…on Kennet and oh so near the Thames” - Daniel Defoe 1724
Entry donation to Meetings, including K&A members, £2.50 (to help with expenses). All meeting start at 7.30pm and further details can be found on the Website at www.katrust.org.uk Nonmembers welcome - please feel free to come along, or contact Graham for the Zoom access.
Entry donation to Meetings, including K&A members, £2.50 (to help with expenses). All meeting start at 7.30pm and further details can be found on the Website at www.katrust.org.uk Nonmembers welcome - please feel free to come along, or contact Graham for the Zoom access.
Crofton Beam Engines
Crofton Beam Engines
The 2024 Open Season has now ended.
The 2024 Open Season has now ended.
Winter Works Open Days 2024/5
Winter Works Open Days 2024/5
A chance for visitors to see behind the scenes during our closed winter period. Future dates to be announced. Please see our What’s On page for more information. There is no charge to enter the site on nonsteaming days except for Special Events. There is a charge to visit the station itself to view the boiler and engines. Advance booking is
A chance for visitors to see behind the scenes during our closed winter period. Future dates to be announced. Please see our What’s On page for more information
There is no charge to enter the site on nonsteaming days except for Special Events. There is a charge to visit the station itself to view the boiler and engines. Advance booking is
not required on non-steaming days. There is a charge to enter the site on steaming days.
not required on non-steaming days. There is a charge to enter the site on steaming days.
Advance booking is recommended. We operate an on-line booking system with Art Tickets (from Art Fund, supporting museums and art galleries across the UK). Booking recommended but not essential.
Advance booking is recommended. We operate an on-line booking system with Art Tickets (from Art Fund, supporting museums and art galleries across the UK). Booking recommended but not essential.
Please visit our website for up to date information on our Open Days: www.katrust.org.uk
Photo and information: Crofton Beam Engines
Please visit our website for up to date information on our Open Days: www.katrust.org.uk
Photo and information: Crofton Beam Engines
Maidenhead Waterways
Maidenhead Waterways
Maintenance Costs - With its financial problems worsening, we are finding it increasingly difficult to get the local council - who built the waterway - to fund the costs of maintaining it. There is a limit to what volunteers alone can do and the waterways charity is unable to subsidise public services like bankside path maintenance. We are exploring the potential for cofunding by streamside developers wh o benefit from the water outlook.
Maintenance Costs - With its financial problems worsening, we are finding it increasingly difficult to get the local council - who built the waterway - to fund the costs of maintaining it. There is a limit to what volunteers alone can do and the waterways charity is unable to subsidise public services like bankside path maintenance. We are exploring the potential for cofunding by streamside developers wh o benefit from the water outlook.
Weed Removal - After struggling to persuade the council to fund it, as part of its responsibilities as operator, we were pleased to get back Weedcutter’s specialist weed boat for its scheduled second visit of 2024. The weather conditions this year have encouraged excessive weed growth, making the channel unsightly and clogging paddles and props. However, blanket weed has been less of an issue thanks to treatment with a natural biological agent Byofix recommended by the EA. Wildlife in the channel continues to thrive and is unaffected.
Weed Removal - After struggling to persuade the council to fund it, as part of its responsibilities as operator, we were pleased to get back Weedcutter’s specialist weed boat for its scheduled second visit of 2024. The weather conditions this year have encouraged excessive weed growth, making the channel unsightly and clogging paddles and props. However, blanket weed has been less of an issue thanks to treatment with a natural biological agent Byofix recommended by the EA. Wildlife in the channel continues to thrive and is unaffected.
Boat Rides - To give residents the chance to appreciate the channel from the water we have started to offer free boat rides in the restored town centre waterway this summer. They are proving very popular, with 150-200 rides given on our work boat “Yorkie” (pictured) at each outing.
Boat Rides - To give residents the chance to appreciate the channel from the water we have started to offer free boat rides in the restored town centre waterway this summer. They are proving very popular, with 150-200 rides given on our work boat “Yorkie” (pictured) at each outing.
Waterways Fun Day - Blessed by glorious sunshine, we hosted a very successful Waterways Fun Day on Saturday September 14th. The High Street over the waterway was closed and filled with stalls and displays, a stage erected above and a day long programme of music and entertainment - on and off the water below - was enjoyed by the crowds. Speeches
Waterways Fun Day - Blessed by glorious sunshine, we hosted a very successful Waterways Fun Day on Saturday September 14th. The High Street over the waterway was closed and filled with stalls and displays, a stage erected above and a day long programme of music and entertainment - on and off the water below - was enjoyed by the crowds. Speeches
by civic leaders, magic from Patrick Ashe (ex BGT), a mobile farm, pedal planes for kids, a flight simulator, Morris dancers, a bubble fairy, balloon artist and stilt walking Pirates all added to the fun. Displays on the water were given by Berkshire Scouts and Claires Court school and to the amusement of young and old we had the return of the “Crazy” Flamingo chase (pictured) - throwing small plastic balls from the banks to try and get them into the flamingo’s basket as it was towed around..!!
WRG/BITM - We again welcomed back an expert team from the Inland Waterways’ Waterway Recovery Group/BITM (pictured) for the weekend in September, to continue removal of the fallen trees in lower Bray Cut that block passage and restrict flow. BITM have been booked to return and continue this important work in a few months’ time.
Richard Davenport Chair of Tustees
River Wey & Godalming Navigations
Despite the recent rain bringing a very sudden end to the summer, this has been another successful season on the Navigation. As always it has been a pleasure to see so many people enjoying the river and hearing the positive feedback from our different communities. One of the highlights of the season for me personally was the recent Wey River Festival where we welcomed just shy of 4,000 people to Dapdune Wharf. Once again, our boating community did us proud putting on a spectacle of lights for our illuminated pageant, the culmination of the day, entertaining the community of Guildford and show-casing what our river has to offer.
Current/Completed Work Along the Navigation:
This has been a busy summer for the team. On top of the day-to-day work of vegetation management, running repairs on our structures, opening of the visitor centre at Dapdune and ensuring the river is open and accessible to our river user communities, the teams have also managed to work through a number of projects. A few highlights of these are:
Triggs visitor mooring – Those of you who have boated along the Triggs length will have seen the new visitor mooring that has been installed. We are aiming to create more of these spots each year improving the facilities and experience for our boating community.
Pennywort clearance – In our continued fight against Pennywort, a fast-growing invasive plant species that can block the Navigation if left unchecked, we were lucky enough to secure a DEFRA grant this year. This has meant that on top of the continued incredible effort from our staff and volunteers to manually pull the weed out of the river, we were able to hire a specialist boat called a conver. This enabled us to remove the large rafts that had built up most notably in the Papercourt area. We have also secured a floating platform that our teams will be able to work from next season making the offside more accessible and have put key staff through spraying courses so that we can try and keep on top of its growth early in the season.
Bank repairs Guildford – Starting just before the summer holidays, a major project started to repair the banks from the railway bridge at Dapdune up to Friary Bridge. The first phase of this project, which is well underway, aims to reinforce the banks, replacing the limestone and woodwork on the sections that were degraded. Once this has been completed, before the end of the year, the tow path will then be resurfaced maintaining the accessible path into Guildford town centre.
Unstead Horse Bridge – Originally thought to be a simple running repair, when the team took the footbridge apart the rot was deeper than we had anticipated. This meant more major structural work was needed. Replacing the frame, the team were able to reuse as much of the original wood as possible and have ensured that this crossing will remain safe for years to come.
Scrapping of abandoned boats – A growing issue for us has been the number of boats that are being left to get into a st ate of disrepair and then abandoned on the waterway. Working through the relevant legislation takes time as there are a number of factors that need to be accounted for and set legal notice periods that have to be adhered to. With the successful removal of one boat from the Thames Lock lower landing stage, the team are now moving to the next crafts on the list.
Fence at New Haw – A security, anti-climb fence has been added around the elsan point at New Haw (under the M25 flyover). For years the team has been repainting the sanitation station here only to come out the next morning and see that it has been covered in graffiti again. We are hoping that with the installation of this new fence the facilities and security for our boaters here will be improved. The
team are aiming to soften the fence by planting shrubs in the spring helping it to blend into the surroundings.
Work Boat Maintenance – The maintenance teams work boats were drydocked earlier in the summer for some much-needed planned maintenance. These craft are vital in ensuring that our team have the resources needed to respond to the vast array of jobs that they do along the waterway.
Audio Tour – Working with the National Trust’s podcast team, we have launched our new audio tour. This is a series of 8, 2-3 minute audio clips where you can hear directly from our Lengthsperson team. Along with a narrator, they discuss various aspects of their role in looking after the Navigation along with interesting facts and histories of their particular lengths. Although these are all available on the River Wey website, look out for QR codes that will be placed along the river so that our visitors can listen to more information about the section of river that they are exploring.
Repainting at Thames Lock – The structures at Thames lock (staging, posts, and barn) were all given a fresh coat of paint by one of our volunteer groups. This is just one example of the tremendous work that our dedicated volunteers do along the river. We would not be able to achi eve as much as we do with their support.
Planned
Winter Works (Pre-Christmas)
With the colder months approaching, the teams are getting ready for the planned winter works. These will continue through to Spring but the projects we are focussing on up to the end of the calendar year are:
Tearoom improvements – The tearoom at Dapdune Wharf has been going from strength to strength and is proving to be not only a great place for our visitors to come and enjoy the wharf, meeting up with friends and family, but also a vital source of income for the river with every penny of profit going back into the Navigation. With that in mind we are looking to make some improvements through November and into early December. Bi-folding doors are going to be added to the front of the building making the space brighter with more views of the river, and we will also be adding a patio/seating area out of the front of the building.
Playground – To further enhance the tearoom, we are also submitting a planning application to add a river themed playground in the fenced garden. All going well, this aims to be in by the spring of 2025. These facilities, combined with the bug hunting and pond dipping areas aim to encourage children outdoors and build their affinity and connection with nature and the waterway hopefully fuelling their passion and encouraging the next generation of river users.
Weirs, weirs and weirs – With what feels like a very sudden end to the summer season, the heavy rains we have all experienced over the last couple of weeks have meant that the Lengthsperson team has shifted their focus back on to weirs. Not only operating the Navigations weirs, but also the majority of Environment Agency flood defence weirs and some of the privately owned ones along the waterway, the team are out day and night monitoring water levels and making the necessary adjustments. Although this is one of the less visible jobs that the team do, it is a gruelling but incredibly important part of the role.
Water level cameras along the length of the Navigation - Looking to use technologies to help the team manage water levels, over the next couple of months we are planning to install a network of water level cameras along the waterway. These will be set up in strategic locations along the full 20 miles of Navigation.
Info for boaters’ booklet revamp – With the help of Tingdene Marina at Pyrford, we are looking to revamp the information for boaters booklet. This will give a fresher more modern look and will aim to ensure that our boaters have all the information they need from bridge heights to turning points, and from the rules of the Navigation to the location of amenities and facilities. We are looking to have these ready for distribution by the start of the next boating season.
Events:
Over the coming months we have a seri es of events based at Dapdune Wharf in Guildford as well as a choice of walks to explore the area around the Navigation. All of the events below are free to join unless otherwise stated. Keep your eye on our website for more walks coming that are not listed below.
Sat 26th Oct: 16:00-19:30 – Halloween Spooktacular Family Fun Run - As darkness falls, test your fitness and your fears in our 2 km night run around the haunted Wharf and island. Look out for a string of spooky surprises on the way! Dressing up encouraged. Dress up in your spookiest gear and come and have a go at our night run at Dapdune Wharf. The event will start at 4.00pm with face painting for £5 and children’s spooky storytelling and before the run which will start at 6.30pm. The café will stay open till the end of the event. £5 per runner.
Sun 27th Oct: 10:30-14:30 – Leith Hill double guided walk - You have to be a bit of a sucker for a climb - we go up Leith Hill not once, but twice from different directions. It’s not all bad - it's only 5 miles, so perhaps short but sweet might cover it? The first ascent is steep, but the second is less so, and then we'll stop for lunch before returning to Windy Gap car park.
Mon 28th October – Fri 1st Nov – Stars and space exploration - Calling all stargazers and budding astronauts this Octo ber half term. Make a mini rocket you can launch into space, well almost, with puff power, create your own constellation projector to shine on your bedroom wall at night and have a play with our moon dough. Remember “Mercury’s Volcanoes Erupt Mulberry Jam Sandwiches Until Noon” and the planets will align. With each exciting new space discovery, we can better understand and help our planet Earth, an oasis for life, to thrive.
Sat 30th Nov – Sun 1st Dec – Creative Christmas - Jump into the festive spirit and craft a homemade touch to your family Christmas. After a successful Christmas craft weekend last year, it is returning for 2024. Young visitors can join us for a day creating Christmas cards, crackers, tree decorations and more! Pen your letter to Father Christmas to send from home and explore the bookshop, then tuck into hot chocolate with marshmallows and cream from the tearoom which will be offering hot takeaway drinks and snacks.
Thurs 5th Dec: 11:00 – 13:00 Willow Star for Christmas - Make a large willow star covered in random weaving and decorate it with fairy lights. Hang it on your front door instead of a wreath, show it off on the top of your tree or display it on a wall all year round. Willow weaver Judith Needham will lead you through the process of weaving your star. Various sizes of our gorgeous willow star are possible. Fast workers may be able to make more than one. We’ll also make some smaller stars, little Christmas trees and maybe even a tiny reindeer. Suitable for beginners and those who have worked with willow before. All materials will be provided (including fairy lights for your first star). Cost £48
Sat 7th Dec: 10:00-13:00 – Wreath Making at Dapdune Wharf - Jess will be guiding us to create beautiful wreaths to hang on the front door. You will learn to
make a moss ring and decorate it with foli age and berries. Do bring lovely foliage from your gardens to contribute to the individuality of your wreath. Cost £43
Sat 7th Dec: 11:00-16:00: Christmas pompom snowmen - Join local artist Sarah Rawlins to make your own pompom snowman. At this drop-in session, you can make some pompoms and then get creative with your design. From red snowflake scarves to pink glittery heart ones, little red buttons or cute bows, this snowman can add some festive cheer to your home. Small activity fee applies, cash and card accepted.
Please visit our website (www.nationaltrust.org.uk/riverwey ) for up to date information.
Tristan Brown Wey Navigations General Manager
Puffing-A-Wey
On 13th July the National Trust played host to the Steam Boat Association of Great Britain for the Puffing-A-Wey event at Dapdune Wharf. About ten steam launches attended, some old and some newer, built in traditional style or to traditional designs. Among those vessels present were Anna Jayne, Aurelia, Chimera, Lady Amanda, Zara Finn and Lollipop. Also of historic interest was Mark Rudall's electric launch Emerald.
Wey River Festival
The 14th September saw the Wey River Festival at Dapdune Wharf, Guildford. Boaters were welcomed by a barbecue and entertainment on Friday evening. On Saturday the wharf offered a range of activities for the public with free entry. There were trade and craft stalls, and a range of refreshments were available including the National Trust Tearoom. The Surrey Woodturners provided an exhibition of their work and members demonstrated their skills on their lathes. Childrens' activities were provided on "Adventure Island", and local waterway and wildlife groups had stalls. Our own branch stand offered the lock game and promoted the Fund
Our Waterways campaign. The Waterways Recovery Group (WRG) had the stand next to us.
Entertainment was provided by the Pilgrim Morris Dancers and the Alder Valley Brass Band. The National Trust trip boats Dapdune Belle and Sir Richard Weston were running public trips throughout the day. In the evening, as darkness fell, the Illuminated Pageant left Millmead, led by the Pantasy Steel Band aboard Dapdune Belle. The public gathered on the towpath and bridges, and the banks and towpath at Dapdune were crowded with cheering spectators.
Mike Lewis
Wey and Arun Canal Trust
WACT News
Bonfire Hanger - the towpath breakthrough
An alignment of the stars (specifically, gaining ownership of most of the land involved in 2023: securing landowner agreement to relay 60 metres at Rosemary Lane not owned by us; the delay to the Rooks Hill project, and the promise of £45,000 grant assistance) resulted in the resources for rebuilding 1 km of public bridleway path at Bonfire Hanger being in place this summer. The work, by our own volunteers and camps for three visiting groups, is now largely finished. Our Midweek Group had earlier spent many weeks felling trees that had grown in the middle of the path as well as in the canal bank and bed, for a new width of at least 2.5 m for future work vehicle
access. In June 2024, the worst 700 m of path was excavated down to a level base for stone-laying. A sandy-coloured (and expensive!) limestone from Fittleworth, near Pulborough, has been chosen for being rounded and therefore kinder to hooves and tyres, this being a bridleway for riders and bikes as well as for pedestrians.
A compound at Gennet’s Bridge lock was the base for the project. Materials were trucked in from the main road and stockpiled the week before. Dave Evans (his last paid project with us) hired in six three-tonne swivel dumpers, a sit-on roller and an eight-tonne digger. Training for three volunteers resulted in having nine volunteer dumper drivers to call on. Northern Working Party’s Pete Turville devised a railway-based token system to ensure only one dumper occupied a length of path where there was no room for two or more. The team started at the Rosemary Lane en d, 1.2 km from the compound and moved south, laying up to 100 m of base stone p er day. The path had been formally closed and signed accordingly, despite which people, mainly cyclists, had to be deterred from trying to pass.
Loxwood - which this time had to be shared for a while with council staff, and then the public, for the General Election.
The path was then reopened in early July, to await a further campbased work session for a week starting in mid-August to finish the reinstatement – some final work by our own volunteers may still be needed. Subject to that, and except for a short section not in our ownership there is now a broad all-weather bridleway path from Loxwood to Rosemary Lane. Wey-South is indebted to Bill Nicholson for the information in this article.
During this first week, 630 m of base stone were laid at 200 mm depth. 503 tonnes of stone were moved in 260 dumper movements. The plant was driven approximately 600 km, using 600 litres of fuel.
The accommodation for visiting week-1 working party volunteers was once again at Kirdford Village Hall, south of
Boat Trips. A private boat trip can be a great way to celebrate a special occasion, or a fun outing for your group or society. We provide the boat and the crew and we can also help with refreshments. The best way to book is to use the online enquiry form on our website or you can contact support@weyandarun.co.uk. For general information on the work of the Trust, please telephone our Northern Office on 01483 505566, or visit www.weyandarun.co.uk
Trevor Lewis - WACT Press Office and Website
River Thames News
The news from the Thames is still rather gloomy. Issues surrounding the funding are still not resolved and so the staff are unable to plan for essential maintenance. It would seem that pro-active maintenance is so rare that it causes a rash of posts on social media when it happens. As with other waterways, the number of boats using the Thames is dwindling and some boat builders are closing.
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Climate change has been a significance this year with the river closed to navigation for five and half months due to strong streams and red boards. This has had a knock-on effect on the River Wey and the Kennet and Avon and flooding has affected businesses upstream. There needs to be a plan to manage this in the future but it will need some blue-sky thinking.
Climate change has been a significant factor this year with the river closed to navigation for five and half months due to strong streams and red boards. This has a effect on the and Avon and flooding has affected businesses upstream. There needs to be a plan to manage this in the future but it will need some blue-sky thinking.
The construction of the Abingdon reser voir has resurfaced. You may find it useful to look at the Wilts and Berks website for the detail on this as one solution will ultimately enable the restored canal to cross the A34 via a tunnel, well, a VERY big pipe.
The reservoir has find it useful to look at the Wilts and Berks website for the detail on this as one solution ultimately enable restored canal to A34 via a tunnel, well, a VERY big pipe.
The quality on the Thames to issue which is
The water quality on the Thames continues to be an issue which is well-aired elsewhere.
On a more positive note it was interesting to see the Swan Upping boats travelling up the river
Verna Smith
Paddle UK
March for Clean Water
Paddle UK is supporting River Action's March for Clean Water which will take place in Central London on Sunday 3 rd Novemberhttps://marchforcleanwater.org/ .
A “coalition of the concerned”, including campaigner Feargal Sharkey, are demanding the new government takes urgent action to address the issues affecting the waters in and around the UK.
River Action and supporters want their voices heard for immediate and decisive action to help our rivers, lakes and seas recover with solutions to include:
1. A plan to address the continuous illegal dumping of raw sewage by the water companies
2. A full set of solutions to end all other major sources of water pollution
3. The reform of our failed regulatory system, including Ofwat and the Environment Agency, so the law can be effectively enforced against polluters
Spread of Aquatic Invasive Species and Plants
The harm to the environment caused by invasive species is recognised by Paddle UK from wor king with the Non-Native Species Secretariat and promoting the CHECK – CLEAN – DRY process for protecting the aquatic environment. https://www.nonnativespecies.org/what-can-i-do/ .
Paddle UK is planning to extend this work directly with canoe clubs to raise awareness commencing in the New Year. Training sessions will be arranged for keeping kit free of invasive species and plants such as Floating Pennywort, Quagga Mussel and Killer Shrimp. All are present in the Thames and many other catchments
The Animal Plant Health Agency (APHA) is also raising awareness of invasive species to the recreational sector by liaising with local authorities to erect information boards at public landing stages and slipways.
River Thames Scheme (RTS) Paddle UK met with RTS in August to be advised:
1. Spelthorne Channel - no public navigation.
2. Runnymede Channel - public navigation only on the upper section. design of structures to control water levels on the Abbey River section are not finalised.
Paddle UK have commented any structures on the Abbey River that obstruct navigation will require portage arrangements to maintain the public right of navigation. A lowering of the water level that would compromise navigation is a further concern.
Kevin East
Voluntary Waterways & Environment Project Officer
Kent & East Sussex Branch
Interim IWAKES Chairman’s Piece
As we approach autumn I am sure that many of us are thinking of different activities to occupy us during the winter months. Some of us will be carrying out maintenance tasks on our boats or maybe volunteering on canal work parties. I wonder who is planning to go to a branch social event? Unfortunately, for a number of reasons, we have so far arranged fewer meetings than has been usual in past years. Our next one is on Tuesday 12th November at Strood Yacht Club. There is no charge to attend and the venue has a bar. Members and visitors are equally welcome. Further details can be seen at the end of our branch section of the magazine. My own experience is, after joining IWA and then attending my first local meeting, I discovered a very friendly bunch of people and have enjoyed many entertaining presentations. I heartily recommend that you give it a try.
Peter Wilkinson
Obituary
Rev. Malcolm Jones
We are sorry that Malcolm Jones, IWAKES’ Representative for the Eastern (Sussex) River Rother, died on Tuesday 23rd July following a cerebral haemorrhage. Malcolm was born in 1943 and studied at Southampton University, gaining a BA in Music and English Literature in 1966, and later a Diploma in Librarianship, followed by a Diploma in Theology from Birmingham University. He joined Birmingham Libraries and, in 1970, was made Head of Music Services. After early retirement in 1995, he became a consultant, specialising in IT and music bibliography. Malcolm was active in the International Association of Music Libraries all his working life; he is a Past President and an Honorary Member.
Malcolm was married to Frances and they had two daughters and four grandchildren. After living most of their lives in Birmingham, they moved to East Sussex. Malcolm was ordained in 2005 and became Vicar of the parish of St. Richard, Heathfield from 2008 to 2013 . They retired to Northiam, where he continued his ministry and bibliographic work and where Frances plays in local orchestras and is a Churchwarden. Malcolm was also often to be found as a stationmaster on the Kent & East Sussex Railway.
Sadly, they had given up their narrowboat, but not their interest in canals. They joined the IWA in July 2001 and, in April 2018, Malcolm became the IWAKES Committee Representative for the Rother, which runs below their back garden. In 2019 Bodiam, on the Rother, was added to the list of IWA “Silver Propellor” destinations. Malcolm had several meetings with EA personnel and, in January 2022, prepared a very useful Factsheet on the River.
River Adur
Good news from Brendan Whelan
Flood defences that have a large gap se rve no useful purpose! Many years ago, the Adur Tidal Walls Flood Defence Scheme was completed, except for a length along the coast road alongside the Sussex Yacht Club (SYC). Hence that area has continued to flood but, after much effort, a plan is now agreed.
The land involved is owned by the SYC. However, three well-defined Public Hards pass over the site to allow members of the public to reach the water to launch craft. The three hards are Dolphin Hard, Stows Gap and Tarmount Hard. Each became restricted by clutter despite a We st Sussex County Council (WSCC) Rights of Way (ROW) ruling, in 1999, that Stows Gap must remain open (and free of obstructions) for the launching and recovery of boats. Despite requests by SYC, no closure order was ever put in place for any of the hards. The WSCC ROW Officer insisted that the three hards must remain open and that the route from the highway to the water must be as shown on the official map dating from the early 1950s. The IWA, other organisations and individuals campaigned for over 17 years for the historic access rights to remain.
Owners of local houses and businesses were relieved when, on 2nd September 2024, the Adur District Council Planning Committee unanimously approved the latest proposals for the final stretch of the Tidal Walls Scheme. Tarmount and Dolhin hard will provide restricted access. At Stows Gap a 3m flood gate will be installed, giving a straight access route to the head of a launching ramp. SYC has challenged the Stows Gap route and a decision is expected later this year but it is expected that construction work will start immediately. The key thing, from a boating perspective, is that the ancient river access rights have been preserved for the benefit of the current and future generations. It is disappointing that it took so much effort by so many people to simply retain existing rights.
Thames & Medway Canal Association
We are kept busy as the rain in the first half of the year has allowed everything to grow. At the Obelisk the Yellow Flag Iris just behind the information board is almost overwhelmed by Reed Mace.
The TMCA cabin at Higham is now well established. We have also repaired a picnic bench which is ideal for us to have coffee outside when the sun is shining.
New MP – Our new MP for Gravesham is Lauren Sullivan who we hope will regard the Canal as an important local amenity. We have written to ask her support for (i) TMCA as a community asset and (ii) for the waterways’ movement as a whole. Those who spend time along the towpaths and waterways know that they not only provide a sense of wellbeing and stress reduction but are of huge benefit to their surrounding area. Opposition to the waterway funding cuts needs all the support we can get from those in government.
Vandalism – It is so sad that much of our time is spent combating vandalism. The weekly task and minor irritation of litter is always present, but it is frustrating and time consuming when some members of our society are really selfish and neglect others.
One job this month was to remove a fully submerged mattress from the Mark Lane end which, being waterlogged, was heavy and difficult.
Another job was to repair one of our gabions which had a nice square end until someone cut the wire frame to remove the rocks within, presumably to enhance their garden. We dredged some rocks from the canal and packed them into the wire cage. Hopefully they will weather to match those left.
Construction Work – Why are many large organisations so optimistic about project timeframes? When we first heard of the following proposed projects, we were advised that most would be started by now, if not completed ....
Sustrans' towpath resurfacing
Network Rail's footbridge at Shorne Mead crossing
UK Power Network's tunnel for the new power-line under the Thames
The Lower Thames Crossing.
The proposed power-line route is shown on the left and the LTC on the right. Hopefully, they are far enough apart to ensure that they don’t finish one only for it to be dug up again for the other.
UK Power have informed us that “right of way” or “compulsory purchase” may apply to some of the land outlined in red which takes in the towpath and the grass area where our headquarters cabin sits. I have written to them to ask for access and to keep the cabin where it is.
Dave Parnell
River Medway news from Mike Marsh
Yalding Bascule
Bridge – Refurbishment work started on 25th September when new hydraulic pipelines, new barriers and associated components, new covers and new paint protection coating will be installed. Work is due to finish on the 20th November. During this time, the waterway will be closed to navigation.
Enforcement – EA surveyed the navigation and marinas 10 th – 21st June.
675 vessels were recorded on the river, all of which are logged with a date and time of sight and a photograph is recorded of every boat.
15 vessels were unidentifiable on the EA registration system and these were issued with yellow notices which require the owners to contact the EA within 14 days.
22 removal notices were issued to serial offenders, giving the owner 28 days to make the vessel compliant or remove it. If the owner fails to do so, EA can remove and dispose of the vessel.
152 emails were sent on 27th June to registered owners of unregistered vessels to notify them that their boat was not registered.
Since the above action was taken….
109 boats have become compliant.
£38,200 has been recovered in registration fees, including several serial multi-year offenders who have paid backdated fees from 2021 onwards.
EA is currently sitting at around 82% compliance rate. EA says it still has work to do but overall, the enforcement policy is going very well and it expects an end-of-year compliance rate of at least 94%.
Teston Sluice – Mechanical refurbishment work continues at Teston Sluice, which is due to be completed in No vember 2024. The waterway remains operational at this location during these works.
Pump out/toilet block facilities – The three sites on the River Medway are located at Allington Lock, Hampsted Lock (Yalding) and Tonbridge Town Lock. Costs incurred maintaining these facilities are much more than the income from the £12 tokens. But they are an essential facility for visiting and residential boaters.
Reporting on the River Medway – There is now a web link for the public to report various issues. These include: damage, faults, vandalism, missing items and missing life buoys. It is important that incidents (particularly of vandalism) are reported, so that the Police can log and bu ild up information concerning this issue. https://therivermedway.co.uk/report-an-issue/
River Medway Water Quality – This September, water samples were taken from sites on the River Medway and River Len as part of the Great UK Water Blitz. This was to monitor biological activity and test for nitrates and phosphate levels in the UK rivers. KCC and Maidstone BC LibDem Councillors Chris Passmore and Tony Harwood carried out the local tests and results were overall quite poor with phosphates and nitrates increased since the last survey in June 2023. The full UK Water Blitz report can be read from the link below and there is an opportunity register for the Great Water Blitz 2025. Pressure is mounting to introduce a byelaw banning the discharge of blackwater into the River Medway. This topic was discussed at the last Medway Rivers Users Association meeting in August, which Councillor Chris Passmore attended. https://earthwatch.org.uk/wpcontent/uploads/2024/06/Great-UK-WaterBlitz-report_June-2024_DIGITALSPREADS_LOW-RES.pdf
River Medway Water Quality – This September, water samples were taken from sites on the River Medway and River Len as part of the Great UK Water Blitz. This was to monitor biological activity and test for nitrates and phosphate levels in the UK rivers. KCC and Maidstone BC LibDem Councillors Chris Passmore and Tony Harwood carried out the local tests and results were overall quite poor with phosphates and nitrates increased since the last survey in June 2023. The full UK Water Blitz report can be read from the link below and there is an opportunity register for the Great Water Blitz 2025. Pressure is mounting to introduce a byelaw banning the discharge of blackwater into the River Medway. This topic was discussed at the last Medway Rivers Users Association meeting in August, which Councillor Chris Passmore attended. https://earthwatch.org.uk/wpcontent/uploads/2024/06/Great-UK-WaterBlitz-report_June-2024_DIGITALSPREADS_LOW-RES.pdf
Maidstone River Festival – This year’s festival was very successful and well received by Maidstone in general. This year it was a D-Day landing theme. Peter Brooker’s boat won best dressed boat. In total 109 boats attended this year.
Maidstone River Festival – This year’s festival was very successful and well received by Maidstone in general. This year it was a D-Day landing theme. Peter Brooker’s boat won best dressed boat. In total 109 boats attended this year.
River Stour
River Stour
Report from Malcolm Hasler
Report from Malcolm Hasler
To be honest, I have not been able to spend the time on the river that I had originally planned, for various reasons, including being unable to spend time on my boat Oriole. I have had a few contacts from IWA members and a theme has been to request that I give an overview of the Kentish River Stour, so here we go.
To be honest, I have not been able to spend the time on the river that I had originally planned, for various reasons, including being unable to spend time on my boat Oriole. I have had a few contacts from IWA members and a theme has been to request that I give an overview of the Kentish River Stour, so here we go.
The Kentish Stour’s source rises up on the Greensand Ridge, winding through Ashford before it flows over the North Downs towards the City of Canterbury. The river is easily viewable here with punts and rowing boats available, allowing visitors to view the historic sites whilst floating on the usually crystal-clear waters.
The Kentish Stour’s source rises up on the Greensand Ridge, winding through Ashford before it flows over the North Downs towards the City of Canterbury. The river is easily viewable here with punts and rowing boats available, allowing visitors to view the historic sites whilst floating on the usually crystal-clear waters.
Leaving Fordwich, the river becomes tidal, historically and legally defined as the point at which the river flows below the A28. The river broadens and heads for the Stodmarsh Nature Reserve (an historically important Wetland area well worth a visit) which is a reminder to visitors of the marshy environment and ecosystem that has existed for centuries. Opposite the Nature Reserve lies Grove Ferry (pictured, left, looking downstream) with its local pub, the Grove Ferry Inn complete with the Electric Trip
Leaving Fordwich, the river becomes tidal, historically and legally defined as the point at which the river flows below the A28. The river broadens and heads for the Stodmarsh Nature Reserve (an historically important Wetland area well worth a visit) which is a reminder to visitors of the marshy environment and ecosystem that has existed for centuries.
Opposite the Nature Reserve lies Grove Ferry (pictured, left, looking downstream) with its local pub, the Grove Ferry Inn complete with the Electric Trip
Boat, and extensive beer gardens. Adjacent to the Inn is found the KCC Grove Ferry Picnic Site (note – BBQ’s are now prohibited) with its resident trailer café (The Larder, pictured above), Canoe Wild (pictured above) and Children’s Play Area.
Opposite the picnic site can be seen the Grove Ferry Boat Club and moorings. This is a very active members’ club which organises social events including a summer party, trips to Redhou se, dinghy runs to Fordwich, afternoon teas on certain Sundays, and various other events throughout the year. Ample parking is available at the picnic site for a small daily fee, or for regular visitors to this and other KCC named sites, an annual permit can be purchased from the KCC.
Along its journey the river has a few tributaries, many of which are chalk streams, one of the UK’s rarest ecosystems, with the East Stour, the Little Stour, the Nailbourne, and the Sarre Penn being the best-known.
Departing Grove Ferry the river flows by “The Boat House” and associated moorings before widening out and continuing its journey towards Pegwell Bay, passing through Plucks Gutter where the Dog and Duck pub can be found and trips to see the seals in the estuary can be booked on a Dunkirk Little Ship River Bus, skippered by Captain Colin. After Plucks Gutter the flow of the river increases, and the width of navigable water available reduces due to the number of shore-based “live aboard” boats and barges as you pa ss the remains of the Roman Fort at Richborough (English Heritage) and approach the ancient Cinque Port of Sandwich. Here is to be found the swing bridge, the old toll gate and house and some quaint and bustling shops well worth a visit, as is the walk around The Butts, the old town defences.
Leaving Sandwich, the river joins the sea at the estuary in Pegwell Bay where can be found another KCC and Kent Wildlife Trust Nature Reserve with plenty of pay parking (daily reasonable fee), cafés, children’s play area, bird hide, cycle tracks and native animal stock with resident seals to be viewed from the Seal Point.
The Kentish Stour is a jewel in Kent’s crown, which since Covid has seen an increase in leisure use, and deserves promoting and managing.
Any news and/or information can be sent to me at: Malcolm.Hasler@waterways.org.uk or mshasler@btinternet.com
Future IWAKES and Other Events
Tuesday 12th November 2024: 7.30 for 8.00pm:
Strood Yacht Club, Knight Road, Strood. ME2 2AH:
“The Basingstoke Canal”: A talk by Ian Moore of Basingstoke Canal Society. The canal, constructed by John Pinkerton under the direction of William Jessop, was opened in 1794. It was mostly navigable until after World War One. Alex Harmsworth (photo) unsuccessfully attempted to navigate from the Wey to Basingstoke in 1931. Restoration started in 1975, after the Surrey and Hampshire Canal Society was formed and the canal compulsorily purchased by two county councils. It re-opened to Odiham in 1991. Basingstoke remains unconnected as bats now occupy Greywell Tunnel.
Thursday 6th March 2025: 7.15 for 7.30pm: By Zoom:
“Kent & East Sussex Branch Annual General Meeting” followed by a “Fund Britain’s Waterways” update from Les Etheridge. Please register in advance by using <Ctrl-Click> on the following link…. https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZEvdyrpz8vG9H9W2aTC29OKukhPJ4MCxCB
After registering, you will be sent a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
Thursday 10th April 2025: 7.30 for 8.00pm:
Strood Yacht Club, Knight Road, Strood. ME2 2AH:
“The Wreck – SS Richard Montgomery”: Screenings by Colin Harvey. Safety works are planned on a shipwreck full of explosives after a new survey detected 18 "metallic objects" around it. The SS Richard Montgomery beached in the Thames Estuary in 1944 eventually sinking with 1,400 tonnes of explosive cargo. Decades later, efforts began to remove the masts lest they fell; potentially causing an explosion and devastating Southend and the Estuary.
Tea and coffee are available at all IWAKES evening meetings. Entry is free with a raffle to cover costs. All IWAKES events are open to non-members. So, please invite friends to meetings. Similarly, if a local club or society might be interested, please tell them.
Oxfordshire Branch
As I write this article a rather mixed boating season, with some nice weather in early September has ended abruptly with storms. Let’s hope this isn’t the weather pattern that is set in for the whole winter.
Mark Rowan, who is helping run the branch, did a fantastic job organising a social get together in Abingdon in Mid-Ju ly that was well received and attended. We hope to arrange further such meetings, so please look out for the emails.
Mark also played a big role in helping me arrange and man an IWA stand at the Oxford Canal Festival, assisted by Robin Williams and Peter Lister to whom we are grateful for their time too.
Between the time I am writing this, and you reading it we should have put on a stand at the Banbury Canal Festival too. It is so important to get the message of the importance of canals, their restoration and their funding to the people attending these events who are not on the whole the dyed in the wool canal enthusiasts that attend many of the events the IWA has stands at.
Do please let us know if you are able to spend a bit of time helping out with the branch, organising events or getting involved.
Ian Lindsay Oxfordshire Branch Chair
Wilts & Berks Canal Trust
Our new trip boat Nonsuch at Royal Wootton Bassett has already earned over £1,200 for the Trust, though trips are suspended at the moment as there is a mechanical issue with the engine and her final paint job is not yet done - when it is, I’ll include a photo.
Our most exciting news is that work is now well underway in Wichelstowe, Swindon, as Phase one of the four-phase plan to join the two existing stretches of canal; one in East Wichel and the other by Waitrose in Middle Wichel. All have to be completed by the time 2,700 dwellings have been completed in the Wichelstowe development, so it’s as certain as possible that we’ll have trebled the length of navigable canal in Swindon within a few years. The recent very heavy rains have brought us a glimpse of how the new section will look
– it’s far from ready, so the water is being pumped out, but it’s nice to get a “preview”!
Chris Barry Comms Secretary, Wilts & Berks Canal Trust
Surrey Care Trust
Swingbridge Community boats provide a wonderful experience people who have limited mobility or special needs.
Our boats run excursions from Dapdune Wharf on the River Wey throughout the spring, summer and early autumn.
Tranquility helps people take time out in a relaxed, purpose-built setting. Are you looking for a special extracurricular or reward activity for your group? Or an engaging team-building or motivational activity for your organisation? Or for an opportunity to volunteer and support your community. Swingbridge Tranquility's trips and activities are for you!
Tranquility is specifically adapted with a wheelchair lift, so it is fully accessible for people with limited mobility as well as other needs, to enjoy a morning or afternoon out. We also offer courses leading to National Community Boats Association qualifications as well as our own courses. All training courses can be adapted to meet different interests and ability levels. www.surreycaretrust.org.uk
Mikron Theatre Group
Multi-award-winning Mikron was founded in 1972. 2024 marks Mikron’s 52nd year of bringing professional theatre to your doorstep.
The 2024 season is now over please look out for our new shows in 2025
Please visit our website for booking details, times and venues.
www.mikron.org.uk
The Puppet Theatre
30th Nov 26th Jan
Captain Sandy and the Sea Monster
Vilma Talvitie
Char lotte Algar Billy Marrows + 18th Oct 7.30pm 19th Oct 7.30pm Grande Familia
Music for all ages! Music for all ages 1 st Nov, 7.30pm Finnish folk/ethno pop Jazz/Brazilian Music for all ages Jazz
Ayse Roza & Zeeya Fisherman Jon Cenk Şanloğlu 9th Nov, 7.30pm 14th -22nd Nov 2nd Nov, 7.30pm Music for all ag es Suitable for age 16+
Music for all ages! Greek Folk Music Live theatre/Drag/Comedy Jazz/Kurdish Folk
London Region Socials (Combined with North and East London Branch)
Our Region Socials started again in September on either the 2nd or 3rd Thursday of the month. They are currently held at the London Canal Museum, 12-13 New Wharf Road, N1 9RT. Details of all these events may be found using the following link: https://waterways.org.uk/support/ways-toget-involved/events
The talks start at 7.30pm. Tea, coffee and soft drinks are available beforehand and in the break. You are welcome to join us in a local pub for a drink afterwards. Please bring your friends, they do not need to be IWA members. If you would like to be added to my circulation list and are not on the IWA London Region circulation please email me as below: Libby Bradshaw libby.bradshaw@ursa.me.uk 07956 655037
South London Branch
South London Branch Meetings will start again in September and are held on the 2nd Wednesday of each month at 7:30 for 8:00 pm in The Primary Room, The United Reformed Church Hall, Addiscombe Grove, Croydon, CR0 5LP. Admission to talks and presentations is free to members and non-members, but we do ask that you donate a minimum of £2 per person to offset room hire charges and speakers’ expenses, thank you.
A large selection of second hand and pre-loved books are available to buy, and refreshments and homemade cake are available to purchase during the break. For more information please contact the Social Secretary: Shea Richardson. Tel: 07803 904803 or email: shea.richardson@waterways.org.uk
Towpath Walks Group
The Start time for all Walks is 2.30pm. Normal charge: £15. Concessionary and Student rate: £10. Children aged 16 and over, accompanied by parents: £10. Children aged 8 – 15, accompanied by parents: £5. (Children under 8, accompanied by parents, go for free). Prior booking is mandatory: Please contact London Walks: 020 7624 3978. Or email: london@walks.com. It is Very Important to watch the
IWA website - www.waterways.org.uk - or the London Walks website –www.walks.com – for any late changes to the walk.
Towpath Walks Group is looking for volunteers to guide small parties of walkers on short walks along the towpath of the Regent’s Canal (and elsewhere). This introduces newcomers to the pleasant world of waterways. It is also a good way of recruiting new members to IWA. No experience? No problem, we’ll brief you.
Sun 7th Jul: Regents Canal: Little Venice – Camden meet Warwick Avenue
Sun 21st Jul: Regent’s Canal: King’s Cross - Granary Square – Camden. Meet King’s Cross (meet by Taxi Queue sign next to Pret A Manger)
Sun 4th Aug: Four Hundred Years of the New Ri ver: Meet Manor House (Finsbury Park exit: exit 6)
Sun 18th Aug: Limehouse – Thames – Docklands. Meet Westferry (DLR)(by Cycle Hire Point)
Sun 25th Aug: The Secrets of the Northern Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park: Stratford (Westfield / QEOP exit by the Pret A Manger sign)
Sun 1st Sep: Regent’s Canal: King’s Cross - Granary Square – Camden. Meet King’s Cross (meet by Taxi Queue sign next to Pret A Manger)
Sun 15th Sep: Regent’s Canal: Little Venice – Camden meet Warwick Avenue
Sun 6th Oct: Regent’s Canal: King’s Cross - Granary Square – St. Pancras. Meet King’s Cross (meet by Taxi Queue sign next to Pret A Manger)
Sun 20th Oct: Regent’s Canal: King’s Cross -Hitchcock’s Hackney – Kings Cross. Meet by Taxi (meet by Taxi Queue sign next to Pret A Manger
Sun 3rd Nov: Regent’s Canal: Little Venice – Camden meet Warwick Avenue
The Narrow Boat Trust has again this year been delivering solid fuel to houseboats on the River Thames, River Wey and Kennet & Avon Canal. We deliver pre ordered solid fuel and wood pellets to houseboats and some houses where access is very difficult with NB Nuneaton and butty Brighton. Having loaded the boats at Braunston we travelled, loaded, down the Grand Union Canal and out onto the River Thames at Brentford to make our first deliveries in the Twickenham and Hampton Court area. We then proceeded upriver and onto the River Wey where our last delivery was to the wharf
at Godalming, which is head of navigation, then returning to Walton Wharf to reload for further deliveries up the Thames and onto the Kennet & Avon Canal.
at Godalming, which is head of navigation, then returning to Walton Wharf to reload for further deliveries up the Thames and onto the Kennet & Avon Canal.
The last part of the trip will be to deliver fuel to the lockkeepers on the upper Thames and Oxford. Having moved just under 40 tonnes, we will be returning to our home mooring in the Midlands via the Oxford canal. On the return journey our butty Brighton will be left at Brinklow for some extensive hull repairs over the winter. The aims of the trust are to promote carrying by water and its traditions by operating a pair of Grand Union boats from the 1930 era, which have never been converted for leisure use but, because of their age have had extensive works to the hull over the years - you need deep pockets to keep old things going.
The last part of the trip will be to deliver fuel to the lockkeepers on the upper Thames and Oxford. Having moved just under 40 tonnes, we will be returning to our home mooring in the Midlands via the Oxford canal. On the return journey our butty Brighton will be left at Brinklow for some extensive hull repairs over the winter. The aims of the trust are to promote carrying by water and its traditions by operating a pair of Grand Union boats from the 1930 era, which have never been converted for leisure use but, because of their age have had extensive works to the hull over the years - you need deep pockets to keep old things going.
Delivering fuel creates an income to he lp us maintain these historic vessels and further the aims of the trust.
Delivering fuel creates an income to he lp us maintain these historic vessels and further the aims of the trust.
John Fevyer www.narrowboattrust.org.uk .
John Fevyer www.narrowboattrust.org.uk .
IWA Branch Annual General Meetings
Notice is hereby given that the Annual General Meetings of the Kent & East Sussex, Oxfordshire and Guildford and Reading Branches of the Inland Waterways Association will be held as follows:
The Kent & East Sussex Branch AGM will take place on Thursday 6th March 2025: 7.15 for 7.30pm: By Zoom
The Oxfordshire Branch AGM tba
The Guildford & Reading Branch AGM will take place on Monday 10th March 2025: 6.30 for 7pm: Dapdune Wharf Tea Rooms, Wharf Road, Guildford, GU1 4RR
The Agenda for the branch meetings will be based on the standard format set out in IWA Byelaws as follows:
Agenda
1 Apologies for Absence
2 Approval (following amendments if necessary) of the Minutes of the Branch AGM held the previous year
3 Matters arising from the Minutes (and not under other Agenda items)
4 Branch Chairman’s Report
5 Branch Treasurer’s Report and Accounts
6 Election of members of the Committee (Nomination no longer necessary). Simply contact the Chairman to apply to join the Branch Committee or do so at the AGM
7 Any item for discussion of which the Branch Chairman has been notified in writing at least 6 weeks prior to the date of the relevant AGM
IWA Chesham Head Office Staff
Administration Manager (PT): Tracy Higgin ext 601
Membership Assistant (PT): Rachel Bryant ext 600
Administration Assistant (PT): Kelly Gascoine ext 615
The Inland Waterways Association South East Region
Chair:
Vacant
IWA Guildford & Reading Branch Committee
Chair: Verna Smith
Tel: 07986 244479 Email: verna.smith63@gmail.com
Secretary: Chris Jones Tel: 07711 784374
Acting Treasurer & R. Wey: Mike Lewis Basingstoke & R. Thames: Vacant
Email: chris.jones@waterways.org.uk
K & A, WACT & Planning: Verna Smith
IWA Kent & East Sussex Branch Committee
Interim Chair: Peter Wilkinson Tel: 01303 890658 Email: peter.glen4@gmail.com
Membership Secretary: Les Etheridge Social Secretary: Vacant R. Medway: Michael Marsh R. Stour: Malcolm Hasler Thames & Medway: Bernard Snell R. Rother: Vacant
IWA Oxfordshire Branch Committee
Chair: Ian Lindsay Tel: 07889 070623 Email: ian.lindsay@waterways.org.uk
Secretary: Vacant
Treasurer: Mark Rowan Cargoes co-ordinator & Jericho: tba Email: mark.rowan@waterways.org.uk
Non Committee Responsibilities
Thames RUG 3: Sue & David Cooper
Next issue: Spring Copy date: 27th January 2025
Opinions expressed in Cargoes are not necessarily those of IWA. IWA, 16B Asheridge Road, Chesham, Bucks, HP5 2PX. Tel: 01494 783453 Company No: 612245. Charity No: 212342 www.waterways.org.uk
Cargoes Editor: Chris Jones chris.jones@waterways.org.uk
Join our communi of like-minded people om all walks of life and show your support for the waterways. The Inland Waterways Association is the only national chari that works to preserve and restore all Britain’s 7,000 miles of canals and river navigations.
