Aegre March 2016

Aegre No. 144, March 2016 Special features in this issue - restoration of a former Skegness lifeboat, Fens Waterways Link update, and Spalding ahoy again!

From the East Midlands Region of Aegre 144 - March 2016 Page 1

Aegre is published Š 2016 by the East Midlands Region Committee of the Inland Waterways Association for members of Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire Branches.

Chairman

David Pullen, 16 Church Street, Scothern, Lincoln LN2 2UA. Tel: 01673 862278

Vice-Chairman

Dave Carnell, Conifer Cottage, North End, Goxhill DN19 7JX Tel: 01469 530138

Leicestershire Branch Chairman

Ian McDonald, 1 Goodheart Way, Thorpe Astley, Leicester LE3 3RX. Tel: 0116 3321534

Lincolnshire Branch Chairman

Dave Carnell (as above)

Nottinghamshire & Derbyshire Branch Chairman

Mike Snaith, Hawthorne Cottage, 70 Main St, Gunthorpe, Nottingham NG14 7EU

Secretary & WRG

John Baylis, 215 Clipstone Rd West, Forest Town, Mansfield NG19 0HJ Tel: 01623 621208

Editor for Aegre: Peter Hill, 7 Lock Keeper’s Way, Louth, Lincolnshire LN11 0GQ E-mail: aegre@waterways.org.uk Advertisement Manager for Aegre: Ian Mc Donald, see above.

E-mail: aegre.adverts@waterways.org.uk This is the web version in lower definition.

Picture credits: Front cover: John Holland, see page 10, Page 3: River Welland at Spalding from Richard Croft; Other credits, page 30.

Registered Office; Island House, Moor Road, Chesham HP5 1WA. Registered as a Charity No: 212342.

Tel: 01494 783453. Website: http://www.waterways.org.uk The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the Inland Waterways Association or of the East Midlands Region. They are published as being of interest to our members and other readers.

The inclusion of any advertisement does not imply endorsement of the product or service by the IWA East Midlands Region or any of its Branches.

Aegre 144 - March 2016 Page 2

AEGRE

No.

144

March

2016

Contents Canal Societies and Trusts in the EM Region...................................................4 The Editor’s Flotsam and Jetsam......................................................................5 From David Pullen, Region Chairman...............................................................6 Boston Barrier Update.......................................................................................7 CRT Work-boats ...............................................................................................8 Parliamentary Business.....................................................................................9 Restoration of a Former Skegness Lifeboat....................................................10 News from Leicestershire................................................................................14 More Flotsam...................................................................................................17 Flood Prevention in Lincolnshire......................................................................18 Black Sluice Catchment Consultation..............................................................20 Lincolnshire Happenings.................................................................................21 News from Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire...................................................24 Unique canal bridge ........................................................................................26 Some Dates from the Societies and Trusts.....................................................28 News from Grantham Restoration...................................................................29 Dredging in the River Witham..........................................................................30 Journals Received...........................................................................................30 Picture Credits.................................................................................................30 Next issue probably to be published in July 2016. Contributions to the editor (see page 2) by the end of May 2016 please.

The space on the right is for local contact information.

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Canal Societies and Trusts in the EM Region

Derby & Sandiacre Canal Society Erewash Canal P & D Association

Chris Madge, c/o 62 Broadway, Duffield, Derby DE56 4BU Tel: 07827 946444 www.derbycanal.org.uk

Norman Cornwell, 38 Millfield Road, Kimberley, Notts.

NG16 2LJ Tel: 0115 8544155 Mobile 07980 091601 www.erewashcanalpreservationanddevelopmentassoc.org.uk

Foxton Inclined Plane Trust

Friends of Charnwood Forest

Foxton Canal Museum, Middle Lock, Gumley Road, Market Harborough LE16 7RA Tel: 0116 2792657 www.fipt.org.uk

Canal

Mike Handford, 1 Sheepy Close, Hinckley, LE10 1JL Tel: 01455 611508 mahandford@gmail.com

Friends of the Cromford Canal

John Baylis, see page 2.

Grantham Canal Society

Mike Stone, 7, Crow Park Drive, Burton Joyce, Nottingham NG14 5AS; Tel: 0115 931 3375 www.granthamcanal.com

Louth Navigation Trust

Paula Hunt, Navigation Warehouse, Riverhead, Louth LN11 0DA Tel: 01507 605496 www.louthcanal.org.uk

Melton & Oakham

Richard Booth, Sysonby Knoll, Asfordby Road, Melton Mowbray LE13 0HP Tel: 01664 503330 www.meltonwaterways.co.uk

Waterways Society

www.cromfordcanal.org.uk

Sleaford Navigation Trust

Steve Hayes, 10 Chelmer Close, N. Hykeham, Lincoln LN6 8TH Tel: 01522 689460 www.sleafordnavigation.co.uk

Trent and Mersey Canal Society

10 Long Lane, Middlewich, Cheshire CW10 0BL. Tel: 01606 834471 www.tamcs.org.uk

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The Editor’s Flotsam and Jetsam Flotsam and jetsam seem unhappily appropriate after seeing some of the debris being washed away in flood water in television pictures. A confession - I spent a lot of time over the past few months hiding from the weather, reading and not doing a lot of the jobs I should have been doing. Fortunately on our side of the country we have not had really severe storms, so no major damage. But we still felt for all the people flooded from their homes.

web site which gave me much useful and current information. It is called www.gaugemap.co.uk and gives water levels and river flow rates in most of the country, based on EA and other data, but easy to use. Typical observation locations are at Kegworth on the Soar and Colwick on the Trent. Have a look.

While sitting anxiously worrying about water levels, I came across a

Best wishes for the coming season, Peter

Relevant to floods are several articles in this edition of “Aegre”. One is on flood prevention works near Louth in Others have written at length about the Lincolnshire, developed after serious damage to houses, bridges, waterways floods in 2007 (page 18), and there are and often, boats, so I will not repeat all updates on public consultations on the details. I have however had diffiBlack Sluice Catchment and on the culty in finding out what has gone on Boston Flood Relief scheme (pages 7 in the worst-affected areas after the & 20). press and TV reporters have moved on. I do hope the country will not for- We had a major disappointment last year, with the cruise to Spalding canget the people flooded out and still celled because of an inoperable Fulney unable to return to their homes. CRT have an appeal running at the moment. Lock. On page 7 there is a description from David Pullen of new hope for such a trip.

Last time in Aegre we had an article about a cruise up the Welland, and in the course of this David took a picture With so much discussion about EA waterways, I see that they have just of the former Skegness lifeboat Anne lost a court action against moorers in Allen en route to Fosdyke. We now have an article about the boat by Terry Thames off-line marinas who never go out on the river, and therefore do not Despicht, who has spent much time and love on a full restoration. See page feel bound to pay river licence fees. A 10. Many thanks to Terry and the East comparison of EA legal costs and the possible gain from licence fees would Coast Lifeboats journal for this fascibe instructive. nating tale and pictures.

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From David Pullen, Region Chairman I blame my upbringing and subsequent professional occupation in Agriculture for the fact that I probably have an abnormal obsession with rainfall, but it isn’t going to change now, so here goes! The media, possibly encouraged by the Met. Office (and climate change lobbyists?), rather dramatically announced that, for the UK, 2015 had been the wettest ever year on record. I am deeply sceptical as to the statistical accuracy of such statements. How can this be calculated and stated for the UK as a whole when patently there is such wide variation Within our Region we have been in rainfall across our country? As evihugely fortunate (so far!) to have dence I can assure the Met. Office escaped the extreme rainfall and that, far from record rainfall, here at floods further north. Both of my Lincoln the six month rainfall total to brothers, living afar in other parts of the British Isles, phoned over Christ- the end of December was only 85% of mas to enquire if our boat was OK, as “average”. As usual the media (and they know we moor on a river naviga- others) prefer not to spoil a good story with the facts! Of course elsewhere in tion (Sileby Marine, River Soar). our Region rainfall could well have They were amazed when I told them been nearer to or above average, but that everything was fine and that it hadn’t so far been an exceptional win- almost certainly not a record. ter! As far as I know the Soar has IWA’s campaign for EA navigations risen to bank full twice now, as has to be integrated within CRT is clearly the Trent with Newark flood gates causing some highly pertinent quesand Torksey outer gates only closed tioning of EA at political level. There twice. We, of course, sympathise has been a noticeable change of positotally with everyone (residents and tion on certain issues over the last few boaters alike), further north and west months. One of these is that IWA is who have suffered so desperately in now being positively encouraged to the floods, and support from our area take over, from EA, the leading role was well received. in the Fens Waterways Link (FWL), Firstly, a very warm welcome to a number of members in South Lincolnshire who have asked to be transferred to our region within Lincolnshire Branch. It may not be widely known that any member can request to be allocated to any IWA Branch. Our new members in that area will be much welcomed as we contemplate increasing our activities and presence on the EA waterways in the Anglian area.

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so watch this space. Also there is a much more accommodating attitude towards the Welches Dam/Forty Foot River link, (also potentially part of the FWL).

As I write this piece I understand that that EA have begun to de-silt Fulney Lock at Spalding, which has been out of use for at least 3 years. To finish only needs a long reach excavator. IWA have been asked to help in future by regularly flushing the lock, a job EA do not have the resources (or the will power?) to carry out. If EA do get the lock usable we will again attempt a campaign cruise to Spalding in May 2016, possibly over the week-end May 20-22nd. Book the dates! Call or e-mail for details when available.

Boston Barrier Update

Conceptual Picture, courtesy of EA safety and future potential for Boston’s Waterfront. There is absolutely no reason for these issues to delay the Barrier project and indeed IWA recognises the absolute need for the Barrier to be built as soon as possible.

The present position is that IWA, in conjunction with the leisure users, and possibly other users, is likely to make a submission to the Navigation Impact Assessment (NIA) consultation which is a key part of an Order under the It is important to make clear that IWA Transport Works Act 1992 process.

This action does not automatically does not, and will not, oppose the Barrier per se, but rather will be mak- result in a Public Enquiry and thereing the case that the design of the Bar- fore does not need to delay the rier can be improved both in terms of project. DP. IWA, together with Boston/Wash/East Coast based marine leisure users and local marine businesses, has continued in dialogue with the EA Boston Barrier team. In particular our concerns are about safety of navigation during the construction phase and subsequently when the Barrier is in place.

We have also discussed these issues with EA Navigations officers and Lincolnshire Waterways Partnership.

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CRT Work-boats From April 2016, CRT are re-organising their work-boat fleet into a nationally managed resource. This is associated with the CRT re-organisation about a year ago, where the regional maintenance teams were transferred into central management. IWA has been asked to assist CRT in monitoring condition and movement of the craft and to provide volunteers with good boating skills and practical knowledge of boats. CRT have approached IWA because our volunteers can provide such skills, and national coverage. IWA Trustees approved volunteer support to this project at their meeting on 12 December 2015.

CRT Proposal CRT work-boats will be organised centrally to co-ordinate the fleet on a more strategic basis. At present the utilisation rate of many of their craft is extremely low, as previously each region, or even each waterway, had their own boats.

Many of us will have personal experience of seeing work-boats tied up for months or years on end with no obvious usage, often neglected and in doubtful condition.

All work-boats will be held centrally under what will be called 'Hire Desk' and “hired� to regional maintenance and construction teams. Such an approach will ensure the maximum use of the fleet, more efficiency from increased utilisation, better maintenance, more strategic capital investment and a greater appreciation of the cost of ownership.

Logistics Under this approach, some craft will not be on hire for at least some of each year and these will need to be checked on a regular basis. When boats are hired, they may need to be moved by water.

We are setting up a pilot project with up to 8 volunteers, rising eventually to about 24 depending on how things work out. Volunteers will always work in pairs.

Background information There will be no hire bases. Hire Desk will be run by one person, largely sitting at a desk in front of a computer, probably at Hatton. He or she will control the fleet, which will be spread out around the country.

In total there are 243 powered craft, 162 hoppers, 53 dinghies and 50 pods

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including tugs, hoppers (dumb barges) and both wide and narrow beam craft.

Long term there will be a reduction in number of craft so that in time the fleet will mainly be recent builds and fully re-conditioned craft, but for the immediate future will still include older craft.

CRT will provide additional training and boat handling skills appropriate to the type of craft in the fleet. All volunteers would be assessed.

The work involving moving craft around is new as CRT have never really shared craft around the country on an organised basis before. IWA support will enable CRT to do maintenance work on the infrastructure more efficiently.

IWA volunteers would be covered by CRT insurance and operating protocols.

This will also allow IWA volunteers to access and move the craft when required for IWA direct volunteer work parties. Volunteers routinely use CRT craft already, so using them for IWA work parties would not be new.

David Pullen

Parliamentary Business We don’t often have our Region’s canals mentioned in Westminster, but this is a notable quotation from Hansard Nov. 5, 2015 (Ed): Victoria Atkins (Louth and Horncastle) (Con): “Water adds value.” That was the conclusion of the Canal & River Trust when it studied the economic, social and environmental benefits of waterways restoration projects over the past 20 years. Will the Minister join me in praising the hard-working volunteers of the Louth Navigation Trust, who for the past 30 years have been working hard to restore the Louth canal to its full glory?

Rory Stewart: I pay real tribute to the work of the Louth Navigation Trust. We are at an exciting moment with the Louth canal, with the potential removal of the “Phillips 66” pipe. If we are able to deal with some of the land ownership issues and, in particular, work with my hon. Friend to talk with Merton College, Oxford, which appears to control access to the canal, then we can get what she and the Louth Navigation Trust have fought so hard for. I thank her for her interest.

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Restoration of a Former Skegness Lifeboat

Owner Terry Despicht with “Anne Allen” in 2008, with restoration work in full swing.

(Photo Nicholas Leach)

After years of dedicated restoration work by owner Terry Despicht, the former Skegness motor lifeboat Anne Allen (RNLI designation ON-760) took to the water for the first time in 2013 having been completely renovated. She made a fine spectacle as she was sailed on the Wash, her original home waters. This historic lifeboat was the first motor lifeboat to serve at Skegness, where she was on station from 1932 to 1953, and is now back to her best having been saved for the future by a dedicated owner.

she was launched 120 times on service and is credited with saving 43 lives. Between 1939 and 1945 she was particularly busy, searching for crews of crashed aircraft, as Skegness is close to the many Bomber Command air bases in Lincolnshire and Norfolk.

After her sale, she was acquired by the Cox family of Wells- next-the-Sea, where she was adapted for whelking with all her side air cases and seats removed, her steering wheel moved to the aft end box bulkhead, and the open end of the canopy taken out to create extra deck space. She After a 21-year RNLI career, Anne Allen was based at Wells for 21 years before was sold out of the service at the end of 1953, but is the only survivor of the eight being bought by Stratton Long Marine, in Blakeney, and substantially altered to lifeboats that served at Skegness prior to the current 12m Mersey class Lincolnshire become an angling boat. The alterations saw the removal of the drop keel and casPoacher. One of only a handful of lifeing, as well as the main decking and canboats built by Thornycroft, she was the second of 28 single-screw 35ft 6in “Liver- opy, which was burnt, and she was pool” class lifeboats to be built, and is the renamed Golden Fleece II. oldest surviving boat of the class. The first, Oldham (ON-750), was broken up at In 1999 she was purchased by Terry Despicht and, although she only posHoylake in November 1955. During the 21 years that Anne Allen served Skegness, sessed a few of her original fittings, a Aegre 144 - March 2016 Page 10

complete restoration was planned.

Terry explains: “This was partly motivated by the fact that my father had been a Wash fisherman until 1950, when Anne Allen was at Skegness. He had taken me at the tender age of four to ‘see the lifeboat’, a visit which left a lasting impression. I clearly recall looking round to see that no one was watching before I touched that gleaming hull.”

Finding parts So, with plans for a restoration in place, enquiries were made regarding the sourcing of original parts. The first item to become available was the galvanised centreboard case, which was taken from Nellie and Charlie (ex- ON-764), the former Anstruther lifeboat, then at Felixstowe Ferry.

The HW3M Lister engine being saved from “Morison Watson”

Between 2002 and 2010 many more items were purchased, including some duplicates which have been put to good use on other “Liverpool” boats.

Parts from the then derelict Morison Watson (ex-ON-741), found in a field in Terregles, Dumfries, were retrieved and shared between Anne Allen and the 35ft 6in self-righter City of Nottingham (ex-ON-726).

Annie Ronald and Isabella Forrest (ex-ON-792), one of eight of the Liverpool class that had been fitted with bronze underwater parts, was then acquired. Her canopy had been removed and, as the hull of Anne Allen was in much better condition, it was decided to use the major parts of ON-792 to restore Anne Allen.

Her original iron keel had lost 20 per cent due to rusting, so the bronze replacement from ON-792 was a bonus, although replacing a keel is not an easy task.

The spars showed the scars of 66 years of use, so a lathe was constructed to turn them while abrasive paper was used to bring them back to clean timber. A major challenge was the replacement of the belting, which still retained some of the original cork infill in parts, so it was replaced by strip planking to increase the strength and rigidity, while also offering a chance to put the correct curve back into the port gunwale, which had lost its original shape. The belting was covered by modern red sailcloth material to replicate the original canvas.

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Restoration under way The restoration started in early 2000 while she was still on a mooring in the Blakeney estuary. Hours of paint stripping was a repetitive task, interspersed with the removal of interior structures that had been added during the conversion to an angling boat.

These included water tanks, rusty steel fuel tanks in the aft end box, and a hydraulic steering system that had replaced the original one.

When Anne Allen was brought to Terry’s home in Sutterton in 2002, the anti-foul and exterior paint were removed and the whole hull was allowed to breathe, while being regularly sprayed with wood preservative.

Each process took about ten minutes, and prevented the hull timbers from drying out too much. Ten years later the hull was painted, and to date the paint has adhered well.

From the start of the restoration the construction of a new canopy had been considered. Prior to the purchase of ON792, a quantity of Honduras mahogany had been bought with the intention of cladding a newly-built canopy with an outer layer of this timber to replicate the original. Although a canopy came with ON-792 it had been removed by a jigsaw cut around its base, and its original shape was distorted.

The sections of the main frame were temporarily fitted to Anne Allen’s deck and locked into position with temporary braces to guarantee a fit when completed, before being glued together. Considering that virtually everything came from the hull of one Aegre 144 - March 2016 Page 12

“Liverpool” and fitting it all into another “Liverpool” hull made four years earlier in a different boatyard, the similarities of the two boats were amazing.

Once the outer skin of the canopy had been sanded back to bare wood, it was clear that the finish would not pass muster so in the end the Honduras mahogany was used here. Planks measuring 5mm by 100mm wide, and about 8ft in length, were cut. Getting the outer layer to replicate the pattern below was difficult, but was eventually achieved after much trial and error. The final stage was to open up the screw holes to replicate the original rivets, and drill dozens of others to match the original rivet hole pattern.

Every metal part was grit blasted with the finest glass bead, then buffed and polished, before being cleaned twice with cellulose thinners. Three coats of “Incralac” were applied, which have withstood three years of weathering.

Engine change When purchased in 1999, Anne Allen had a Perkins 4236 engine, but Terry wanted to replace it. Brought from Morison Watson was an old HW3M 36 bhp Lister engine. It was completely seized and had been under water at some time, but was a nice compromise between the original sixcylinder 35 bhp Weyburn AE6 RNLI petrol engine and the 67 bhp Perkins. Getting the engine cleaned up was a considerable effort. The cylinders had to be rebored, the crankshaft reground and many new parts fitted, but the end result was a power unit that looks very at home under the canopy.

Restored and refurbished, “Anne Allen” at Tabs Head bound to her new home at Fosdyke. (Photo by John Holland)

A retired Lister foreman commented: ‘You will have more power at your propeller with that Lister than they had with the AE6’. He also assured Terry that the smaller diameter original dry RNLI exhaust system would cope with the Lister’s exhaust.

Replacing the sails The final major task was to replace the sails with a new set made by Ratsey and Lapthorn, whose name appeared on two original “Liverpool” jibs Terry had come across. They were fitted and tried out for the first time in 2015. Considering that Anne Allen has a long straight keel, a small area of centre keel and a very moderate low aspect sail area meant mainly as a back up to the engine, Terry was pleased to find she goes about well and gybes effortlessly.

What now?

At the end of the process, Terry said: “The restoration has taken many

years, but to own and sail the oldest surviving Liverpool is a privilege.

Having now completed much of the restoration, were I to be given unlimited funds with which to purchase any boat of my choice I would choose her.’

But what of this historic boat’s long-term future? Terry says he has been asked what he plans to do with Anne Allen in the long term, but has no simple answer. ‘If anyone has a possible answer, I would like to hear from them,’ he says. Meanwhile, she is being kept at Fosdyke Yacht Haven, in the water from April to October and in the shed from November to March, while the many smaller additional tasks are worked through, but these are relatively minor compared to the work that has been completed.

And now, as Terry looks back over what he has achieved, he says, ‘A debt of gratitude must go to the skilled Thornycroft boatbuilders who built her at Platts Eyot, Hampton; to the Skegness RNLI crew members who looked after her so well for her first 21 years; and to the Cox family and Tikkie Taylor who preserved her for almost half a century between 1953 and 1999.’

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News from Leicestershire We had said we would offer tea and coffee as a method of getting people to stop and chat, but the power to the kettle was too far away and the wind and weather too cold for the kettle to stay hot for long enough. The plastic cups of course were not suitable for resisting the wind either and later in the day we had to grab display items and gazebo side curtains to stop them hitting the water. But it didn’t stop us chatting to people and I’m optimistic we should I had been very concerned that CRT have got another three or four memberhad not chosen its location well as ships and visitors to our meetings. The there was no on-street parking nearby leaflet we have with the map of the and the lock itself was not visible from whole Inland Waterway network is a nearby roads. They had arranged park- really useful tool to introduce the IWA ing at the City Football ground, but I to general visitors by asking if they reckon that was a walk of approaching know the extent of the waterways. So it ½ a mile from car park to the lock, was a worthwhile day and I had a usecompared with last year at Lime Kiln, ful chat with CRT Chairman Richard visible from the road and parking only Parry. In my opinion he is a really good around 100 yards away. I’m pleased person; he certainly gets out to meet that I was proved wrong, on Saturday the public and support his staff and volat least, as over 200 people came along, unteers. including one father and son who had driven from Lincoln! Wearing my IWA Last summer members were encourgilet I asked many people how they had aged to join in a Balsam Bash in Aylestone. Only two members turned out to heard about the event and was interested to find that most of the more sen- join Aylestone Meadows Appreciation ior visitors had read it in the local paper Soc on a lovely day and there was or heard about it on local radio, but for plenty to bash. It was towards the end those of perhaps 40 and younger, Face- of the bashing season as the weed was in flower, but it was pleasant and none book was where they heard of it. Pertoo arduous work. When finished there haps I need to revise my opinion on was little balsam to be seen between Social Media. CRT were pleased they had signed up 16 Friends on the Satur- Kings Lock & Aylestone Mill Lock and this included a significant width to day. the side. The worrying thing is that As far as the branch was concerned I about 2 months later I went to Kings was delighted that we got six to come.

Days lengthen and last weekend people were able to visit the bottom of Freemans Meadow Lock when CRT had cleaned it out and installed new top gates and then set up a staircase and viewing platform. The branch had been asked if we could help and six of us turned out on the Saturday. It was windy but at least it was dry and when the sun was out it was reasonably warm.

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Lock and a field alongside the Packhorse bridge that had been cleared was as covered as it was before. The IWA is having a Himalayan Balsam Awareness Week & Bash this year, it would be wonderful if our members could set to to try to work towards eliminating this weed. When I knoiw the date I will put it onto our branch web page.Last Aegre was published before our social programme had started and I’m pleased to report that they have been well attended. The October meeting had no speaker. We asked people to come along to discuss what they would like the Branch to do at meetings, discussion topics etc., and their concerns as well as to their thoughts about the paddle gear as requested by IWA National Office. Our Treasurer Herbert also gave an update on the proposal we had made about installing moorings just above Aylestone Mill Lock, alongside the Aldi store. Unfortunately CRT and the City Council have rather scuppered the idea by installing coir rolls alongside the very fine concrete edge, ruining what would have been a perfect mooring. They are both aware of our feelings; we will continue to press for some facility. I was delighted that so many people came along and joined in at the meeting, it really gave us a chance to chat without a speaker interrupting us.

onto the Great Ouse. It brought back happy memories for Carol and me of a lovely summer down there in 2010.

The turnout was good again; our joint Social Secretaries, Andrew & Debbie, are obviously doing a good job. It was also good for our Christmas Social with a buffet provided by The Gate and the quiz was created by Andrew. I was spared embarrassing myself by lack of knowledge as Andrew got me to act as question master. People enjoyed the quiz and evening but the buffet was disappointing.

Our next meeting was our AGM with a talk my predecessor John Evans is preparing about Sileby Mill. With his lovely wife Wendy they restored the mill and brought the marina into life.

On March 10th we are having a talk by John Lower about The Chesterfield Canal. I can’t remember having had a talk about it before, but my memory is failing so we might have done in the distant past. I’m sure it will be worth a listen, especially how HS2 is going to affect this on-going restoration. These two meetings are at The Gate at 7.30.

Andrew is in talks with a speaker for April 8; please check the web site for details.

The River Soar Grand Union Partnership meetings continue, bringing together some of the local authorities In November we had Phil Clayton back along the length together with other as he gave us a really good talk before bodies with great interest in the waters. and we were not disappointed this time.

It is an interesting group and I’m pretty He took us “Down the Drains” in his sure that it is helping to move forward talk about travelling down from Peteractions that will enhance the waterway. borough through the Middle Levels and At the meeting the other day I was told

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that the new boater facilities in Leicester are ever closer, with CRT about to dredge the area for the moorings before they are installed. I understand the water and waste facilities are there, but the Elsan disposal facility sadly has not materialised. This I can’t understand as the old mill alongside had a vast sewerage network that could have been used.

We had been told that these were to be established as part of the building of the newly opened basketball arena above Lime Kiln Lock, but that failed, so now maybe it could be created if/when they improve Memory Lane Wharf.

After the meeting a few of us walked a short way to the old Belgrave Road Bridge which is about a mile downstream from Belgrave Lock. There we were shown the new earth works that the EA are currently undertaking. This will change the profile of the west side of the river to give usefully increased flood water storage whilst also improving the area for walkers etc, including some wetlands. We discussed the next problem they have which is the restriction that the old bridge imposes on water flow. They have several ideas they are considering, all made more difficult by water and sewage pipes. It is apparently grade 2 listed which is rather surprising as coming downstream you can hardly see the old bridge for the hideous concrete monstrosity of a footbridge and most of the brickwork would certainly not be permitted on such a listed structure now.

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The plan preferred by some in the City Council and the EA is to effectively stop the road being used and to drop the levels so that when the river floods it then flows over the revised levels.

Funding for this work incorporated moneys from various sources, and these covered the dredging that has recently been undertaken below Lime Kiln Lock as well as towards the features at Friars Mill.

In closing I must report that Carol and I sadly attended funerals of two members, both victims of cancer, both of whom will be sadly missed by those who knew them. Waldy Hastie had been a member with husband David for many years, and she died very suddenly only very few weeks after the cancer was discovered, and not many weeks after they had returned in their boat Schnucki from helping out at the Canalway Cavalcade. Over the years they had been much involved in the National festivals and she was a really lovely warm friend. Her packed funeral was some tribute to how she will be missed.

Mo Amos had not been seen at meetings since he and Vanessa had set off on genuine continuous cruising, but he was a regular at our meetings at Oadby.

I had met them at odd times when our cruises were made to pass, but I always enjoyed his blog, and especially one thread he started some years ago where he reported he was working on a device to convert water into a fuel for Balmaha, their boat. The story went on for many, many weeks and given his technical knowledge and background had

several elements of believability......all crushed when he reported that he had finally managed to run the boat on water.....on April 1st. His fun was reflected in his well-attended funeral only about two weeks after that of Waldy.

More Flotsam

While the stormy weather was in progress, a coincidence was the “Geovation Water Challenge” for two months prior to January 27th this year. This was a competition, sponsored by the OrdI must also let members know that just nance Survey, collaborating with Envia few weeks after Waldy, Anna Howse ronment Agency, DEFRA , Southern died. She was the wife of our initial Water, and United Utilities, for developtreasurer Streph and because of him, ers of software to suggest ways of using and later Anna, we were able to use the geographical, GPS, and other publicly facilities at Oadby Tennis Club at a available data to address problems good rate for many years. She had not around water in the UK. DEFRA has made it to meetings for about four recently released thousands of open data years, but her help was significant in getting the branch going. Our thoughts sets relevant to the Geovation Challenge go to all the families.

Five problem themes were identified: So as I prepare for the AGM I am much too little water; too much water; poor heartened by how many continue to water quality; aging water infrastrucwant to join us at our meetings and ture, and water use behaviour. Plainly especially by being joined last Saturday inland waterways exhibit all these from by five others volunteering. Members, time to time. 51 ideas were submitted, please look out for notices about Balfor example: sam Bashing. The branch will not be organising them, I think, but the organ- A Geo-Tag Picture App. which asks three questions: Date; Time; Photo. Too isers will be wanting our members to join in the fun. Keep an eye on the web often Local Authorities receive reports site and I will also get an email sent out of surface water flooding during heavy rain fall with very little information. If directly to those of you have notified the user can take a photo and add date / Head Office that you are willing to time it will help engineers to see exactly receive them from the branch. what happened.. “A picture speaks a The Leicester Riverside Festival this thousand words” . It could even be year will be on June 4-5. This has been linked to “fixmystreet”. (Andrew Brett) a great event in the past, with Branch participation, and can be again. Plan your diary now and keep the dates free. The judges met on 10th February and finalists were invited to “Geovation More later by e-mail or web page..

Camp” at Ordnance Survey in SouthIan MacDonald ampton over the weekend 4-6 March to work out their ideas.

Aegre 144 - March 2016 Page 17

Flood Prevention in Lincolnshire

The Site in October 2015

In the last issue of “Aegre” we had a brief mention of flood prevention works near Louth. We can now bring you a bit more detail on this scheme, which was triggered by serious flooding in the town in 2007.

“Aegre” is very grateful to EA, the contractors and the site agent for background information. Ed. In 2009 the Environment Agency (EA) produced a "Louth Coastal Catchment Flood Management Plan". This covered the area from roughly Humberston Fitties down to Gibraltar Point and the River Steeping, and inland to the Wolds watershed. For the Louth area, it recommended that two reservoirs be built west of the A16 Louth bypass to reduce the risk of flooding to 355 properties.

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These are now being built as suggested. Planning permission was granted by East Lindsey District Council in April 2015.

The £6.5m scheme is funded and delivered by a partnership of Lincolnshire County Council, the EA, East Lindsey District Council, and the Lindsey Marsh and Witham Third District Internal Drainage Boards. On-going maintenance will be funded by Louth Town Council.

The EA has developed the scheme, and construction is by their contractors, VBA Joint Venture Ltd, a partnership of Volker-Stevin, Boskalis Westminster, and Atkins, who have also undertaken work on the Middlewood locks in Manchester, the Prescott Channel on the Olympic site in London, and coastal defences

The Site in February 2016, with Control Tower

from Clacton Pier to Holland Haven in Essex.

In October members of Louth Navigation Trust were kindly invited by the Town Clerk, Linda Blankley, to join a visit to one of the sites, arranged for Town Councillors and others interested. After a thorough safety briefing by the Site Agent Matt Parkinson and the adoption of hard hats and visitor badges, the party was shown the extent of the new reservoir (or lagoon or artificial washland). The course of the river had been diverted from the original line to allow a new embankment of about 200 m circumference around a section of the stream valley, giving a maximum potential water depth of about 7.5m when full. In the middle of the embanked area a new "control tower" was being erected on the

original stream bed with a lattice of reinforcing steel bars and poured concrete. Within the tower, but not yet fitted, there would be an automatic flow control device called a "hydro-brake", a novelty in the UK, and needing no external power supply. In normal flow conditions this would simply allow the stream onwards to flow through a culvert below the A16 without restraint. If inward flow increased, the gate or sluice would gradually close and excess water would be kept in the reservoir. This water would then be released gradually when the incoming flow fell back to normal. The whole site will be earth-covered and grassed when finished and should need no manual intervention, but would be monitored by telemetry at the EA centre in Lincoln.

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Black Sluice Catchment Consultation A study of the catchment area was started in 2012 to review how flood risk is managed and to prepare a business case for refurbishing the Black Sluice pumping station in Boston. It became clear that the pumping station does not reduce flood risk to people and about 1000 homes, although it does reduce the amount of agricultural land flooded. This makes it difficult for the Environment Agency to attract government funding.

The study by Environment Agency (EA) and Black Sluice Internal Drainage Board (BSIDB) looked at what additional activity, on top of current maintenance, could help manage flood risk in the future, and consider different ways forward for the pumping station. They wanted to consult with local people to benefit from local knowledge and get their opinions on the emerging options.

More than 150 people came to see displays, and there were 71 responses from councillors, organisations and the local community.

Lincolnshire IWA Branch and EM Region responded to the consultation to support two options being followed, on the basis that retaining the two small pumps could be beneficial to maintaining a navigable water level through Boston with the Barrier in place.

Most people supported the transfer of Black Sluice pumping station to the BSIDB. The two bodies are seeking to identify funding for a two year transition period to allow the BSIDB time to put longer term funding in place. For the Lower Catchment (see map on our back page) most people support protecting the low points along the raised embankments from erosion. For the Upper Catchment most people support increased channel maintenance downstream of villages, with “slowing the flow� steps upstream of Swaton and surrounding villages.

A pioneering Black Sluice Catchment Steering Group has been formed to help ensure continued dialogue between those involved in managing flood risk in the catchment.

A plan to operate and maintain flood risk infrastructure e.g. embankments, will be jointly written by organisations with powers to manage flood risk. This will help make sure all the funding that is available to organisations can be used in the most effective way to help reduce the risk.

Information courtesy of EA Aegre 144 - March 2016 Page 20

Lincolnshire Happenings From Dave Carnell Welcome to the first Branch report of 2016. Much time is being spent writing to Planning Authorities with comments regarding the detrimental effects some applications have on the waterways and their historical sites and views. There have also been several meetings regarding the development of the Boston Barrier and Fenland Link.

Boston Barrier. Meetings with the development team have raised concerns over their figures of flows in the navigation channel around the barrier coffer dam during construction. Locally sources and opinions of commercial boat operators indicate that a re-think is required to prevent the risk of collisions during high flow times.

Costs of Water Level Management upstream of the Barrier are being assessed by Lincolnshire CC, along with the financial benefits that would be brought to Boston Town.

The Black Sluice pumping station, at the entrance to the Fenland Link, lifts water from the Link water course into the tidal Boston Haven and maintains a level for land drainage of a large area of fenland. These pumps suffered severe damage in the 2013 tidal surge. The Environment Agency are responsible for the pumps and estimate a cost to repair

them is ÂŁ10 to ÂŁ15 million pounds.

Discussions with engineers who specialise on this type of pump refute such astronomical estimates A recent consultation on the future of the management of the Black Sluice Drain (Fenland Link) appears to favour the EA handing over the pumping station to the IDB (Internal Drainage Board), whose local experience would be beneficial to land drainage, water level control and leisure uses (opposite page).

To try and re-start the stalled Fenland Link project the EA have indicated they would work with a third sector organisation. To this end IWA meetings at Branch, Region and National levels are debating ways in which this could work. The Region Chairman, David Pullen, has given a fuller report on page 6. See also the meeting at Fosdyke on March 23.

River Ancholme The campaign of writing to MPs to obtain their support in lobbying the Waterways Minister for the transfer of EA`s navigations to the CRT has produced responses from the local EA office, claiming ignorance of some of the silting problems on the river. These are to be further discussed locally with mooring operators, canoe and rowing clubs.

Severe silting at South Ferriby Lock means that the Humber Keel Sloop Aegre 144 - March 2016 Page 21

Preservation Society may have to operate both their Keel and Sloop from Hull, in which case there will be no restrictions on which weekend they are available for hire.

Louth Navigation The Navigation Trust are receiving help from the District and County Councils to obtain a response from Merton College, owners of land for pontoon moorings at the tidal entrance to the navigation.

They are also being included in the Local Development Framework.

Ownership of land adjacent to the navigation tow path is being determined to progress further discussions

with Sustrans for a cycle route. Funding may be available from the Local Action Zone and Coastal Action Zones.

sents for this and the creation of a winding hole at Kyme are being submitted.

River Witham CRT have published a list of locations where spot dredging will be carried out during this spring and early summer. See page 30.

Brayford Pool. Following objections by a number of bodies to the proposed eleven storey high accommodation blocks to be built at the south edge of the Pool by the University, the City Council planners have refused permission. The University are to rethink their plans.

Other plans proposed by the Brayford Trust are open for comment. These are for a further “over the water” restaurant to the north of the Pool, near Sleaford Navigation Trust. Working the existing viewing area (sketch above and position opposite). Conwith the Environment Agency the cerns over the loss of view over the Trust have secured funding for the installation of Coir Roll bank protec- water, regarded as the “Jewel in the Crown” of the City, and the incompattion to be installed in Sleaford, near ibility with cathedral and castle of an the lift bridge and South Kyme village. This natural fibre roll is seeded, ultra-modern design have been and the plant roots then grow into the voiced. river bank and bed providing refuge In conjunction with Lincoln “Busifor fish and voles. An agreement with ness Improvement Group” BIG, CRT the EA allows volunteers to carry out are considering holding a waterway the installation. Land Drainage conAegre 144 - March 2016 Page 22

event at Brayford. In addition to activities on the North Wharf this will have activities on the water.

These could include historic commercial boats that brought goods to Lincoln, e.g. Keels, Sloops, working narrow-boats etc. that could be open to the public.

The build-up of silt continues to be a problem for the Brayford Trust. We have suggested that samples should be analysed to identify their source, e.g. from River Trent; Witham; Ancholme Industrial Water transfer; or River Till. Once this is known further steps can be identified..

please report it to the relevant CRT office.

CRT`s records of official winding holes is somewhat dated, as are many waterways guides. IWA and CRT are carrying out a joint survey of winding holes to establish their location and condition. Branch/Region members are asked to report details to their respective committees, giving location, condition and what length of craft they are suitable for.

Diary Dates and events.

Wednesday 23rd March, 7.30pm The Ship Inn, Fosdyke Bridge, Boston PE20 2DB. Meeting to discuss current and future waterways developments in South Lincolnshire including the Fens Waterways Link.

Other CRT points At CRT Elsan disposal points the short flushing hoses were removed following concerns they could contaminate the water supply line. This left the standard BSP fitting, also used on drinking water supplies, visible. There have been reports of those not familiar with the use of the flushing system connecting drinking water hoses and filling their tanks. The short flushing hoses are to be re-fitted. Should anyone find a disposal point where this has not happened

Sleaford Navigation Boaters’ Gathering, South Kyme April 30 - May 1 with combined activities in the Village.

May 20-22 approx.. Possible cruise to Spalding from Boston. Contact David Pullen for latest plans.

Brayford Pool, Lincoln. CRT and Lincoln BIG water event; date uncertain at time of writing.

Humber Keel and Sloop Preservation Society takes parties of up to 12 for weekend trips on the Humber. Call 01482782917 or e-mail secretary@keelsandsloops.org.uk

Aegre 144 - March 2016 Page 23

News from Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire As Mike Snaith, the Branch Chairman is temporarily absent, dealing with family matters, you have a new scribe. For those who do not know me, I am Archie Roberts, and I am responsible for keeping the Branch web pages up to date. I also take most of the photos of Branch activities that appear here and on the web.

We started a very busy final quarter of 2015 with a Sunday spent clearing rubbish from the Nottingham Canal and towpath, as reported by Mike in the last Aegre.

Our next outing was a presence at CRT's Nottingham Waterside Festival, held at Castle Wharf in front of the Magistrates Courts. We took the sales/information stall which did a roaring trade in Christmas cards and other merchandise (see back cover). We made over £500, and plan to make a donation to Chesterfield Canal Trust. We also ran one of the two trip boats providing free boat trips to members of the public. A suitable trip boat was very generously loaned to us by Gunthorpe Leisure Cruisers, but we had to get it to site ourselves, and return it afterwards. A suitably MCA approved skipper was recruited for the day from the Grantham Canal Society - our grateful thanks to John Trigg - and almost every trip was sold out.

Aegre 144 - March 2016 Page 24

Lord Mayor of Nottingham Jackie Morris opens the event accompanied by consort Rev Andy Morris

Most of the local Canal Societies had a stall promoting their activities, as did other canal users, notably the canoeists and the anglers, both offering a chance for the public to try their hand. Other entertainment included Morris dancing and, in the pub opposite, live music. Helped no doubt by the good weather, and the fact that the event was free, an estimated 3500 people attended over the day. This seems to have pleased the organisers, who plan a similar event in 2016 (date not yet fixed).

There was barely time to return the trip boat before our next event, our first indoor meeting of the 'new season', and our first in our new venue, the “Poppy & Pint”. Still in West Bridgford, not too far from where we used to meet, but a warmer and more welcoming place with a superior range of refreshment. But,

would people turn up? Even for Richard Parry, Chief Executive of CRT, our first speaker of the season. Fortunately they did, providing a good sized audience for our most prestigious speaker to date.

Richard was a most engaging speaker, showing, as one would expect, a thorough grasp of all aspects of CRT's work. Funding was a major area he covered, and he talked about how, whilst there is never enough money, knowing that you have at least a certain amount coming in over the next few years means that more longer term planning is possible. He was also very clear that the involvement of volunteers is central to the way the canals are now run. Most of the second half of the evening was given over to questions from the audience, and it seemed to me that we got open and straightforward answers to our questions. Asked about incorporating the EA waterways into CRT, he said that this would take at least three years from when they started negotiating with government, and that those negotiations had not yet started. All in all the message was very positive, at least until 2027, when the current financial settlement runs out.

Our November meeting was also well attended, at least partly due to the railway subject matter. Members heard Mike Riley, of the Great Central Railway, give an account of the strange beginnings and ultimately

sad demise of this route, and its partial restoration by volunteers, to become the major tourist attraction it is today. He talked of plans for the future with a major development at the Leicester end of the line, and eventual linking up with the isolated section to the north.

Our final event of 2015 was our Christmas Social, traditionally accompanied by a buffet supper. Our new venue obliged us by providing a plentiful and varied spread at a very reasonable price to replace our previous 'Bring and Share' catering. Entertainment was provided by Mick & Carole Golds, who gave us a detailed account of work to restore the Montgomery Canal, from early work on the locks at Welsh Frankton, to what is happening today. It was surprising to learn about how many people from the East Midlands took part in the restoration of the locks at Welsh Frankton.

Our first meeting of the New Year was a visit from Les Reid of the Newark Heritage Barge project to tell us of recent work to preserve the vessel 'Leicester Trader'. I was unable to attend this meeting so cannot report directly, but I know that Les has done a huge amount of work whilst the vessel has been out of the water.

By the time you read this we will have had our AGM, so this is an appropriate time for me to record the Aegre 144 - March 2016 Page 25

gratitude of the remaining Committee to our Secretary, Jackie Morrice, who has announced that she is standing down. Despite being one of only two members of the committee with a full time job, Jackie has attended almost all Social, Committee & CRT user group meetings, written all the minutes, dealt with some at times very strange requests for information, and helped run the Branch sales stand at numerous events. She has also been my driver for said events. She leaves a huge gap in the Committee, which, at present we do not know how to fill.

We have meetings in March and April, both at our new venue; the “Poppy & Pint”, Pierrepont Road, West Bridgford NG2 5DX. Both meetings are on our new regular date of the second Thursday of the month.

The venue is a little tricky to find as it doesn’t face Pierrepont Road, but is set back at the end of an access road.

If you look at our web pages, there are some photos to help.

Thursday 10th March; 7.45pm This month's speaker is Derek Hatton, whose title 'A Cruise on the Cut' gives little away. However we believe Derek's interests lie in the architectural and engineering aspects of our canals.

Thursday 14th April; 7.45pm The speaker this month will be John Lower from the Chesterfield Canal Trust. He plans to talk about progress

Aegre 144 - March 2016 Page 26

with the canal and also the New Dawn boat project.

We expect to organise outdoor meetings in May and/or June, but nothing is finalised as I write. Similarly we expect to be involved in a two-day clean-up on the Erewash Canal in early April. This is pending approval from CRT as we are reliant on them for the work boats.

May I end by asking you to support us in our new venue, and to recommend the web pages as a way of keeping up to date with what the Branch is doing. I also email Branch members once a month just prior to each meeting. If you do not get these emails and would like to, please get in touch: archie.roberts@waterways.org.uk

Unique canal bridge Engineers are giving a unique canal footbridge, built out of 100 year old railway tracks, a new lease of life.

CRT is carrying out the works at Bully’s, otherwise known as Potlocks, Bridge on the Trent & Mersey Canal at Willington in Derbyshire.

The bridge was built in the late 19th Century, at a time when the canal was owned by the North Staffordshire Railway and the bullhead rails would have been a cheap, readily available material. The tracks were used to form both a lower rail which the bridge deck would sit on and an upper rail to prevent people falling.

The bridge would have connected the town of Findern with a now filled-in wharf built to enable the transport of goods from rail to canal and vice versa. Today the canal towpath is a popular walking route, and the bridge is used frequently by the residents of nearby Mercia Marina. During the works the whole bridge has been covered in polythene so that the old paint can be blasted off and a new coat applied safely without anything nasty getting into the water.

The engineers have also been improving the structure of the bridge, installing new bracing and fitting a new timber deck and steps. The project is being carried out by the Trust’s main contractor Kier. During the works a temporary crossing has been installed to maintain access over the canal.

Tim Brownrigg, project manager for the CRT said; “This bridge has got a really fascinating history and helps to tell a wider story about what the area

would have looked like over a century ago.”

“The construction shows the resourcefulness of those working on the canal at that time. Today the bridge forms part of a popular walking route so it’s important that we carry out these works, making the bridge look smarter and more welcoming for all the people that use it every day and preserving a fascinating part of the area’s history.”

Robert Neff, general manager at Mercia Marina, said: “It’s wonderful to have such interesting history right on our doorstep. The bridge and its unusual structure is always a real talking point amongst our moorers and other visitors, and of course it provides an essential crossing point. We are therefore extremely grateful to the Canal & River Trust for taking on this significant renovation work.”

Photo above by Jo James of work in progress on the bridge

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Some Dates from the Societies and Trusts Chesterfield are looking forward to hosting the National Trailboat Festival with their own Canal Festival, based at Staveley Basin, on May 28 - 29. Musical fun will be at Hollingwood Hub on March 9 and April 11.

Moira Festival is on May 21-22 this year and Crick Show of course will be widely advertised elsewhere, but just a reminder that it is on May 28-30.

Cromford Canal. Their social meetings at Ironville Church Hall continue on the third Monday of the month. March 21 is on the “Idle Women”, April 18 is an AGM, May 16 on Ambergate Reservoir, and June 20 on the Great Central Railway.

The Derby and Sandiacre Trust has work parties continuing at Draycott and Borrowash. Contact Eddy Case on 07523 896645. Indoor meetings are planned to continue on the fourth Tuesday of the month, 8pm at the Wilmot Arms, 49 Derby Road, Borrowash DE72 3HA. March 22nd David Bell The Plague Doctor, Remedies of the past April 26th Paul Sturges Derby in the 1950’s May 24th Rosemary Gibson The Grantham Canal June 28th David & Derek Walk at Sandiacre July 26th Stuart Smith Notable Railway Accidents For queries call Chris Madge on 07827 946444.

Erewash CP&DA monthly open days are at Sandiacre Lock Cottage on 20 March, 24 April, 22 May, and 19 June. Visitors welcome.

Foxton The Locks Festival this year is on June 18 and 19.

Louth Navigation Trust : They have canal walks on Thurs 26 May, start at Alvingham 5.30pm, and Sat 4 June, start at 12.30pm at Crown and Anchor Tetney Lock. An AGM on Thursday 23 June at the Navigation Warehouse at 7.30pm and on Sat 30 July the IWA Restoration Commttee plans to meet in Louth..

Melton and Oakham Waterways Society They have a new Secretary, Dave Andow, since their AGM. Plans include a display to draw attention to the Oakham end of the navigation, probably in the autumn.

Sleaford Navigation Trust A main event will be the Boat Gathering at South Kyme on April 29 - May 1. They are looking at the possibility of running a 12seater trip boat between Riverside Green and Cogglesford. An AGM will be held on May 10 at Sleaford Rugby Club. Their work parties continue, usually on the second Sunday of the month. Call 01522 856810 for details.

Aegre 144 - March 2016 Page 28

News from Grantham Restoration

From Steve Swann The Grantham Canal Society, apart from competing with the weather, are tackling the task of restoration with grim determination. Few of us will have ever seen the bottom of a lock which had lain derelict for the past 90 years, let alone been tasked with clearing four feet of black sludge from it. Still, this makes a welcome break from brick cleaning duties! And so the work continues at Woolsthorpe Middle Lock, lock 15 on the Canal, where the lower section of one lock wall has now been exposed and will be ready for demolition soon.

Apart from the initial excavation work and by-wash construction carried out

by WRG, all further work has been done by GCS volunteers. There are now several who, after training by specialists, are now fully qualified mini digger & dumper truck drivers, and all having gained numerous other qualifications.

There is now an even greater need for more volunteers, not only to work on lock restoration, but to join the work teams who are gainfully occupied keeping the navigable section of the canal in good shape. If you are interested in helping with this heritage challenge, then please email our volunteer co-ordinator at volunteer@granthamcanal.org.

Grantham has received special mention in a recent post by Chairman of CRT Allan Leighton. He says: “Alongside national engagement initiatives like our flagship youth engagement programme including the Desmond ‘Coast to Coast’ Canoe Trail, which will see 10,000 young people create a 150-mile long route across the north of England, local canal societies have been working tirelessly to ensure our canals remain a source of great pride. For example we are working with local volunteers, with some HLF funding, to restore a series of historic canal locks, designed by William Jessop, on the Grantham Canal.”

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Journals Received We are very pleased to acknowledge copies of journals from various canal and river societies and trusts. They include “The Portal” from Friends of the Cromford Canal; “The Packet” from the Derby & Sandiacre Canal Society; “The Cuckoo”, from the Chesterfield Canal Trust; “The Bridge”, from Grantham Canal Society; “Sleaford Navigation Trust” journal; the “Melton and Oakham Newsletter”; and “The Wharfinger”, from Louth Navigation Trust, as well as “Navigation” from our neighbours at West Midlands, and the “Easterling” from our Eastern neighbours the EAWA. Anyone interested in receiving a copy of one of these journals should contact the relevant address given on page 4. For “The Cuckoo” contact the editor at 22 Works Road, Hollingwood, Chesterfield S43 2PF.

Picture Credits We are most grateful to all of the following, who have contributed photographs or other illustrations to enhance this edition of Aegre: Ian McDonald; Dave Carnell; Mike Snaith, Rod Auton; Archie Roberts; Shirley Rogers, David Pullen, and as noted for specific articles. Stem Architects of Lincoln for sketch on page 22. Some photographs in this issue are licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0 Generic Licence. To view a copy of this licence, visit http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/. The authors concerned are acknowledged in the relevant articles,

Dredging in the River Witham Dredging works are planned by Canal and River Trust on the Witham in the coming months at fourteen locations as listed in the table opposite. The location reference indicates the distance in km. from Stamp End Lock, Lincoln.

At most locations the works are limited to clearance of silt and vegetation from around mooring pontoons and at confluences with drain outfalls. At two locations (downstream of Lincoln Rowing Club and at Bardney Cut) the works are required to maintain the navigation channel.

I anticipate the works starting at Lincoln in February, with completion in June. I am working with the EA on the project overall with regards to mitigating environmental impacts.

From Paul Fox, CRT, The Stop House, Braunston Aegre 144 - March 2016 Page 30

Location WI-002 WI-013 WI-020 WI-022 WI-024 WI-026 WI-028 WI-030 WI-033 WI-034 WI-036 WI-044 WI-048 WI-051

Lincoln Rowing Club slipway to 1 km downstream Bardney Cut including lock approach and moorings Southrey – Visitor mooring pontoon Catchwater Drain confluence Black Horse Drain confluence Kirkstead Bridge – Visitor Mooring pontoon Pumping station inflow - Old Mill Cottages Pumping station inflow - Engine Drain confluence Tattershall Bridge – Visitor mooring pontoon Bain confluence and Dogdyke Visitor mooring pontoon Kyme Eau confluence at Chapel Hill Langrick Road Bridge – Visitor mooring pontoon Antons Gowt Lock landing and visitor mooring pontoon Boston Lock – Visitor mooring pontoon

Aegre 144 - March 2016 Page 31

“Black Sluice” Drainage Area - see page 20

The Branch Display Aegre 144 - March 2016 Page 32 at Nottingham Festival