Cargoes Spring 2018

Spring 2018

Newsletter of Guildford & Reading Kent & East Sussex and Oxfordshire Branches

WRG RESTORATION HUB WRG RESTORATION HUB

Dapdune Belle,one oneof of33National National Trust Trust Electric Electric Launches Wharf, Dapdune Belle, Launchesbased basedatatDaptune Daptune Wharf, Guildford Guildford

3

Editorial The last year has been a struggle for Cargoes following the death of Ray Carnell. We are very grateful that Tim Fry and Verna Smith continued to publish Cargoes during 2017. Chris Jones, Gareth Jones (no relation) and Jenny Bartholomew volunteered to help Tim with the responsibility for Cargoes. We are very grateful Tim is still involved in something three of us have little experience, enabling us all to continue with Ray’s legacy. We hope that you will find Cargoes under the new editorial team as full of information as it has been in the past and a useful companion in any travels around the regions waterways.

You will notice that we have started Cargoes with IWA Head Office and E. A. We felt that with the major changes of the new branding, Restoration Hub and nontransfer of E. A. waterways to CRT, that these subjects needed space in this issue We also have a new email address (cargoes@waterways.org.uk) which can be used in addition to the method by which you already send in your copy. If you should you wish to contact any of us, we should be very pleased to hear from you.

Cargoes Editorial Team

From the IWA Head Office IWA’s Restoration Hub The Restoration Hub aims to help create an exciting, vibrant and robust restoration sector that can deliver successes and re-openings as well as providing advice and resources for waterways restoration projects. Over the next 12 months our key focus is health and safety.

Shaping our Support There are three distinct elements to IWA’s support via the Hub: Supporting: Field enquiries from restoration groups, provide up to date guidance on restoration issues, and create online resources on IWA’s website.

Enabling: Provide practical assistance through WRG Canal Camps. Organise visits to restoration groups, to be attended by appropriate experts who will offer support and guidance specific to the reason for the visit.

Championing: Champion the waterways restoration movement at a national level. see diagram opposite Cover Picture: Decima at the entrance to Dartford Lock

[Photo: Roy Sutton]

4 We hope this new approach will mean we operate as one-IWA – completely coordinated – that will benefit the restoration movement.

•

This will mean restoration groups have one point of contact for enquiries,

•

The High Level Panel will provide real opportunities to influence politicians and decision makers locally and nationally to support the value of waterways and restoration.

•

There will also be structured and regular communication across the restoration movement

Case Study – Hub in Action

Bridge 70, Uttoxeter Canal IWA’s honorary engineers worked with Caldon & Uttoxeter Canals Trust (CUCT) to draw up the specification of work needed for the bridge restoration.

WRG ran 4 canal camps to manage the encroaching woodland around the bridge, repoint the stonework, install drains and a waterproof membrane, and re-lay the top surface.

Towards end of four-year project by CUCT hit a temporary cash flow problem until IWA stepped in with short-term aid.

To fund the final stage of the restoration IWA worked with CUCT to devise a short-term finance package, enabling CUCT to complete the work and unlock a retrospective grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund, which paid for the project as part of the Churnet Valley Living Landscape Partnership scheme.

Upcoming Events Sat 14th Apr, Waterway Restoration Workshop: Jointly run by IWA and Canal & River Trust, the 2018 Workshop will be held at South Wolverhampton and Bilston Academy. This free training workshop is aimed at waterway restoration groups and hopes to give volunteers support and information to assist in the development of their schemes. It is also a great opportunity for those passionate about waterway restoration to share and discuss ideas. https://waterways.cloudvenue.co.uk/restorationworkshop2018 The Hub has more events planned for 2018. For details https://www.waterways.org.uk/waterways/restoration/restoration_resources/wate rway_restoration_training_courses

Contact us

Jenny Black e: jenny.black@waterways.org.uk t: 01494 783 453 ext. 604 Neil Edwards e: neil@waterways.org.uk t: 01494 783 453 ext. 609 More details www.waterways.org.uk/restorationhub

5

IWA Rebranding Vision, Values and Branding If you look back over the last 70 years of waterways history you would no doubt spend time marvelling at how much has changed over that period. Now try and imagine a similar amount of change over the next 70 years…it’s almost impossible to conjure up a vision of our canals and rivers in 2088. But if we can’t imagine this future, how can we prepare for it? Whatever the future might hold, IWA believes the following are just some of the things the waterways need to stay strong and valuable: • A powerful advocate and champion for our rivers and canals • An organisation that will protect and expand this wonderful national asset for the millions who enjoy and benefit from it • An organisation to envision and campaign for the future of the waterways; coordinating, advising and holding accountable all who influence that future • An organisation to continually reassess, understand and coherently communicate what the ‘regeneration of the waterways’ means NOW and in the FUTURE. We believe IWA can be the national champion of the waterways and is uniquely placed given our independence, our wider perspective, and our strong heritage to champion the cause of the waterways.

Our members and volunteers know the waterways inside out – whether in water or under restoration. We can use this unique knowledge, experience and our distinctive position to lead and instigate national campaigns, unlike any other waterways body.

In the past IWA has talked about waterways for the benefit of ALL and today we must demonstrate that we still campaign for all. We have to drive national awareness, debates and public opinion about the waterways and we can only do this if we are a whole lot more PRO-ACTIVE. There is an opportunity that we must seize to establish IWA as the independent, future-focused, custodian of the waterways. As a first step IWA has agreed the main areas of focus for the next 5 years to make the biggest difference to the waterways.

Our key themes are: 1. Speaking for the Waterways • ensure that the important role our inland waterways play in the UK’s infrastructure and economy is better understood and appreciated 2. Protecting • see a well-funded, properly-maintained waterway network with sustainability at its core 3. Restoring • work through the Restoration Hub towards creating an exciting, vibrant and robust restoration sector that can deliver successes and re-openings • build on our existing reputation as the foremost provider of knowledge, advice and resources for waterways restoration projects

6 4. Inspiring • inspire a new generation of waterway users, and ensure existing users experience the best the waterways can offer • attract new volunteers to the sector and ensure that those already volunteering across the waterways are safe, happy and motivated And don’t think for one second that we have forgotten the views of our members and active volunteers. We spent a good amount of time finding out what IWA means to our supporters….not that the answer was simple. It was clear that IWA means different things to different people, making it hard to explain in just a few words. There is an incredible diversity within our membership and volunteer base aligned with a strong desire to demonstrate that our shared purpose makes us greater than the sum of our parts. We have called this ‘One IWA’.

To achieve “One IWA” we need a unified and instantly recognisable brand, bringing us together across Waterway Recovery Group, Essex Waterways (the IWA subsidiary which runs the Chelmer & Blackwater Navigation), IWA’s regions, branches and committees. A brand is more than just the logo, but it is one of the first visuals our supporters often see. Even though the audiences for IWA, WRG and Essex Waterways may be slightly different, by having a consistent icon, we are creating clear opportunities for people to see the bigger picture and deepen their connection with us. We wanted to reflect all the key areas of our work and shared vision for the waterways and a new set of logos have been developed. These logos reflect and underpin our new vision and objectives and should give everyone throughout the Association a sense of the diverse, all-encompassing nature of our activities in support of the common vision and objectives.

Thank you for your support.

Alicen Stenner

From the Environment Agency re Transfer to CRT Over the past few years we’ve had fruitful and positive discussions with the Canal & River Trust and Government about whether, and if so under what terms, the Environment Agency’s navigation responsibilities might be transferred to the Trust.

CRT recently submitted their proposed terms for taking over our navigation responsibilities to Government. Ministers have considered the proposals and decided not to proceed with any transfer at the present time; however, they wish to keep the option open and return to it when they feel the time is right.

We in the Environment Agency will continue to concentrate on ensuring we run our navigations as efficiently as possible, including looking at new ways to raise revenue and engaging with our boating customers over our charges review. We and CRT will continue to cooperate actively in the running of our respective navigations to ensure the best possible experience for all river and canal users.

Barry Russell MBE, Non Tidal Thames Harbourmaster Waterways Manager, Thames Area

7

Linda Wilkinson The inland waterways community in the south of England lost a stalwart supporter with the passing of Linda Wilkinson in September. Linda was mainly known for her leadership of the Chichester Ship Canal Trust but she was also an enthusiastic member of the Southern Canals Association (SCA) serving as its Secretary until her death. Linda was a tireless campaigner for the canal and readily accepted the challenges of dealing with a myriad of parties involved with the restoration of the canal including local councils, landowners and wildlife bodies. In all her relationships, Linda always showed a dogged determination to get the best result for the canal. Her most tangible memorial is the impressive Canal Centre at Chichester Canal Basin which incorporates a cafÊ, shop and meeting room and operates as a base for the CCT’s trip boats. Linda was also instrumental in securing the acquisition by the Trust of the former stables at the basin which have subsequently been converted into a visitor centre. Sadly Linda did not live to see Chichester linked once again by water to its harbour but her example should inspire others to complete the work that she initially started and vigorously pursued throughout her later life.

A former colleague of Linda's who served with her on the board of the Chichester Canal Trust commented: "Linda's knowledge of the canal was quite without parallel and indeed her knowledge of canals generally in the UK was extraordinarily wide. She probably did more for the Chichester Canal than anyone else for many years and her commitment and achievements set a high bar that will be difficult to exceed. She was a huge and positive presence in the world of UK canals generally and her knowledge, her helpfulness and advice and indeed her sheer joie de vivre will be greatly missed by all who knew her".

Philip Riley

From the Region Chairman The I.W.A’s initial disappointment and confusion over the decision-making process for the ultimate transfer of the E.A. waters to the C.R.T. has been followed by determined efforts to ensure that E.A. waters will be adequately funded for the foreseeable future. The Thames has a backlog of weir repairs plus some urgent work needed to ensure public safety, for which money may have to be found from a different pot. It therefore seems slightly ironic that the government has imposed a cut across all departments which will result in a cut of approximately two hundred thousand from the recent increase in licence fees. While the Thames lock keepers are expected to welcome the river staying under E.A. control, all the problems of year-on-year budget setting will continue to stymie long term planning for maintenance and improvements. Other waterways in our region are catching up on maintenance during the stoppage season.

I regret that it was necessary to cancel the planned region meeting at the end of February, but the number of attendees did not justify the costs of the day. We will run a region meeting later in the year with good notice of the date and venue.

As the next boating season approaches, the rain is pouring down which is great news for waterways that depend on high winter rainfall to fill the aquifers but

8 not so helpful for towpath users, as evidenced by the number of very muddy dogs locally.

I hope to meet some of you at the branch annual general meetings. We really need you to support the branch committees and the vital work that they do to promote the waterways through local events, safeguard the waterways environment by monitoring planning and development, and protect the existing heritage.

Time to clean the mud off the wellies‌.again!!

Verna Smith

Branch Annual General Meetings Notice is hereby given that the Annual General Meeting of the Guildford & Reading Branch of The Inland Waterways Association will be held as follows: The Guildford & Reading Branch AGM will take place at 7.30pm on Monday 26th March 2018 at National Trust’s premises at Dapdune Wharf, Wharf Road, Guildford, Surrey GU1 4RR. The Agenda for the Branch meeting will be based on the standard format set out in IWA Byelaws on next page:

Agenda 1

Apologies for Absence

2

Approval (following amendment 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.

Diary of Meetings & Events Wed 14th Mar, South London Branch: Annual General Meeting (see page 43) Sun 18th Mar, 2.30pm, Towpath Walks Group: Grand Union Canal: Little Venice & Paddington Green (see page 43)

9 Tue 20th Mar, K&A (Reading): Branch AGM

(see page 19)

Wed 21st Mar, 800pm, BCS: Whitchurch Silk Mill by Deborah Wheeler (see page 17) Wed 21st Mar, K&A (Reading): Branch Annual Lunch

(see page 19)

Thu 22nd Mar, 7:30pm for 8.00pm, IWAKES: Narrowboating on Tidal Waters by Nick Grundy (see page 29) Mon 26th Mar, G&R: AGM

(see page 15)

Fri 30th Mar, BCS: Public Trips in Hampshire aboard John Pinkerton II and in Woking aboard Kitty restart (see page 17) Fri 30th Mar, 11am, 12 noon and 2pm, WACT: Easter Bunny Specials (see page 27) Sat 31st Mar to Mon 2nd Apr, 7.45pm, K&A (Crofton): Easter steaming weekend (see page 21) Sat 31st Mar, WACT: Public trips from Loxwood Canal Centre recommence (see page 27) Sun 1st Apr, 2.30pm, Towpath Walks Group: Regent’s Canal - Mile End to Limehouse (see page 43) Sun 1st Apr, 11am, 12 noon and 2pm, WACT: Easter Bunny Specials (see page 27) Mon 2nd Apr, 11am, 12 noon and 2pm, WACT: Easter Bunny Specials (see page 27) Thu 5th Apr, 7.45pm, Southampton Canal Society: The Heroes & Villains of the Basingstoke Canal by Roger Cansdale (see page 26) Sat 14th Apr, 10.45am, Towpath Walks Group: Regent’s Canal - King’s Cross Granary Square to Camden (see page 43) Sat 14th Apr, WRG: Waterway Restoration Workshop

(see page 4)

Sun 15th Apr, 2.30pm, Towpath Walks Group: Regents Canal - Little Venice to Camden (see page 43) Tue 17th Apr, K&A (Reading): Speaker - there will be one!

(see page 19)

Wed 18th Apr, 8.00pm, BCS: Canal & River Trust Engineering a 200 Year Old Infrastructure by Neil Owen (see page 17) Fri 20th Apr, 7.00pm, BCS: Quiz & Curry Night Cruise

(see page 17)

Sat, 21st Apr, WACT: AGM (Members only)

(see page 28)

Thu 26th Apr, 7.30pm, K&A (Newbury): AGM

(see page 19)

10 Sun 29th Apr, 2.30pm, Towpath Walks Group: Regent’s Canal - Kings Cross, Hitchcock’s Hackney (see page 43) Tue 1st May, 2pm-6pm, River Wey & Godalming Navigations: Toll House Turbine Tour, Dapdune Wharf (see page 24) Tue 1st May, 2.30pm, Towpath Walks Group: Grand Union Canal - Uxbridge to Denham (see page 43) Fri 4th May, 7.00pm, BCS: Sea Shanties & Ale Cruise 5th

(see page 17)

7th

Sat - Mon May, 7.45pm, K&A (Crofton): Early May Bank holiday steaming weekend (see page 21) Sat 5th - Mon 7th May, South London Branch: Canalway Cavalcade (see page 42) Sun 6th May, 2.30pm, Towpath Walks Group: Regent’s Canal - R. Tyburn, Regent’s Park to Little Venice (see page 44) Wed 9th May, 3.00pm, BCS: Cream Tea Cruise Tue

15th

May, G&R/K&A (Reading): Joint meeting

(see page 18) (see page 19)

15th

Tue May, 2pm-6pm, River Wey & Godalming Navigations: Toll House Turbine Tour, Dapdune Wharf (see page 24) Sat 19th May, 2.00pm, BCS: AGM

(see page 18)

20th

Sun May, 2.30pm, Towpath Walks Group: Grand Union Canal Uxbridge to Denham (see page 44) Thu 24th May, 2.15pm & 4.30pm, WACT: Cream Tea Voyages 26th

28th

Sat - Mon steaming weekend

May, 7.45pm, K&A (Crofton): Late May Bank Holiday (see page 21)

Sun 27th May, IWAKES: Nautical Festival Thu

31st

(see page 28)

May, 11am, 2.00pm, WACT: Pirates & Princesses

(see page 29) (see page 28)

Fri 1st - Sun 3rd Jun: Beale Park Boat and Outdoor Show Sun 3rd Jun, 2.30pm, Towpath Walks Group: Limehouse, Thames to Docklands (see page 44) Sun 3rd Jun, WACT: Poddle

(see page 28)

Tue 5th Jun, 2pm-6pm, River Wey & Godalming Navigations: Toll House Turbine Tour, Dapdune Wharf (see page 24) Thu 7th Jun 7.45pm, Southampton Canal Society: tba

(see page 26)

Fri 8th Jun 7.00pm, BCS: Blues & Ale Cruise

(see page 18)

Fri 8th Jun, 7.30pm, WACT: Pimm’s & Picnic Sunset Cruise

(see page 28)

11 Sun 10th Jun, 2.30pm: Mikron Theatre Company: RW

(see page 45)

Wed 13th Jun 3.00pm, BCS: Cream Tea Cruise

(see page 18)

Thu 13th Jun, 2.15pm & 4.30pm, WACT: Cream Tea Voyages

(see page 28)

Sat 16th Jun, 10.30am–7.30pm, K&A (Reading): Reading Water Fest (see page 20) Sat 16th Jun, 10.45am, Towpath Walks Group: Regents Canal - Little Venice to Camden (see page 44) Sun 17th Jun, 2.30pm, Towpath Walks Group: Grand Surrey Canal - Royal Navy Victualling Yard to Greenland Dock (see page 44) Sun 17th Jun, 9.45am & 12 noon, WACT: Dad’s Bacon Butty Brunch (see page 28) Tue 19th Jun, 7.30pm: Mikron Theatre Company: RW

(see page 45)

19th

Tue Jun, 2pm-6pm, River Wey & Godalming Navigations: Toll House Turbine Tour (see page 24) Thu 21st Jun, 7.00pm, Salisbury Group: Boules & BBQ

(see page 14)

Fri 22nd Jun, 6.00pm: Mikron Theatre Company: GWS

(see page 45)

Sat

23rd

& Sun

24th

Jun, 7.45pm, K&A (Crofton): Crofton steaming weekend (see page 21)

Sat 23rd Jun, 3.00pm: Mikron Theatre Company: RW

(see page 45)

Sun 24th Jun, 3.00pm: Mikron Theatre Company: GWS

(see page 45)

Tue 26th Jun, 7.00pm: Mikron Theatre Company: RW

(see page 45)

Wed 27th Jun, 7.30pm: Mikron Theatre Company: RW

(see page 45)

Thu 28th Jun, 7.30pm: Mikron Theatre Company: RW

(see page 45)

Thu 28th Jun, 2.15pm & 4.30pm, WACT: Cream Tea Voyages

(see page 28)

Fri 29th Jun 7.00pm, BCS: Wine & Food of France Cruise

(see page 18)

Sat 30th Jun, 1.00pm: Mikron Theatre Company: GWS

(see page 45)

Sun 1st Jul, 2.30pm, Towpath Walks Group: Regent’s Canal: Islington to Mile End (see page 44) Tue 3rd Jul, 7.30pm: Mikron Theatre Company: The Rising Sun, Berkhamsted, HP4 2EG, GWS (see page 45) Tue 3rd Jul, 2pm-6pm, River Wey & Godalming Navigations: Toll House Turbine Tour (see page 24) Wed 4th Jul, 7.30pm: Mikron Theatre Company: The Rising Sun, Berkhamsted, HP4 2EG, RW (see page 45) Wed 4th Jul, 12,30pm, IWAKES: River Rother Boat Trip

(see page 29)

12 Thu 5th Jul, 7.30pm: Mikron Theatre Company: The Three Horseshoes, Hemel Hempstead, HP1 2RZ, GWS (see page 45) Fri 6th Jul 7.00pm, BCS: Acoustic & Ale Cruise Fri 6th Jul, 7.30pm, BCS/Mikron Theatre Group: RW

(see page 18) (see page 18 & 45)

Sun 8th Jul, 11.30am-4.30pm, K&A (Newbury): Newbury Waterways Festival (see page 19) Sun 8th Jul, 3.30pm: Mikron Theatre Company: Wootton Wawen Village Hall, Henley-in-Arden, B95 6AY, GWS (see page 45) Wed 11th Jul 3.00pm, BCS: Cream Tea Cruise

(see page 18)

Sat 14th Jul, 11am-4pm, River Wey & Godalming Navigations: Puffing-aWey (see page 24) Sat 14th Jul, 10.45am, Towpath Walks Group: Regent’s Canal, King’s Cross, Granary Square to Camden (see page 44) Sun 15th Jul, 2.30pm, Towpath Walks Group: Regents Canal: Little Venice to Camden (see page 44) Tue 17th Jul, 7.30pm: Mikron Theatre Company: Bourne End WI - Spade Oak Farm, Bourne End, SL8 5PS, GWS (see page 45) Thu 17th Jul, 2.15pm & 4.30pm, WACT: Cream Tea Voyages Sat

21st

Jul, 9.30am, BCS: Farnborough Air Show

(see page 28) (see page 18)

Sun 22nd Jul, 9.30am, BCS: Farnborough Air Show

(see page 18)

Sun 2nd Sep, BCS: Odiham Raft Race

(see page 18)

Sat 22nd Sep, from 11am, River Wey & Godalming Navigations: Wey River Festival (see page 24)

Salisbury Group

Our Salisbury correspondent, Myra Glover, writes: At the November meeting, we welcomed Gareth Jones, a member of the “Thames Sailing Barge Trust” to tell us about these historic and fascinating vessels.

Maldon in Essex is the home of these barges and the two vessels owned by the society are moored there, “Pudge” (1922) and “Centaur” (1895).

The original use of the barges was, of course, to transport goods. Each one usually was manned by two people, the skipper and a lad. The barges traded around

13 the Thames Estuary and east coast of Britain and because of their flat bottoms they were able to venture into shallow waters although they had to be aware of the tides and constant shifting sandbars. Barges could carry 120 tons, often brick and cement from Kent into London for building materials. There was also the “Hay & Dung trade”. Hay & straw was carried to London as at that time all transport was pulled by horses, so the dung was the returning cargo.

Gareth told us about the darker days when 32 barges sailed to Dunkerque in 1940 to assist in the rescue of troops from the beaches. The advantage was that because of their flat bottoms they were able to go right onto the beach, but this did make them sitting ducks for attack by the Germans. Then in 2012 “Pudge” was present at the Queen’s Jubilee Pageant on the River Thames.

“The Thames Sailing Barge Trust” is run by volunteers. There is always so much restoration that is needed for the upkeep of these old vessels. Amongst other tasks these enthusiasts can be seen repairing the woodwork, painting the sails with red ochre or tarring the bottoms at low tide. It would appear that it is the nails that rust away rather than the wood that goes rotten.

It is so important that these vessels are maintained in working condition.

They can still be seen in regular use although now their purpose is not for trading but for chartered trips. They are our “Heritage for the Future.”

Chris Marshall is a Coastal Ranger for the New Forest National Park and at the January meeting she was able to tell us about her work in areas and with communities along Southampton Water and the Solent. Her main remit is education, working within the community and with volunteers across this area. The New Forest was designated as a National Park in 2005. It is a small park, 220 square miles in area but has a large population. Half of the area is open heath and it has a 26 mile coastline.

The park has a large mosaic of habitats which leads to a great variety of plants, reptiles and birds. In the area will be found lowland, wet & dry heaths, mires & bogs, ancient pasture & woodland, coniferous plantations, acid grassland, mixed farmland and a wide range of coastal habitats.

Historical places within the park include:Eling Tide Mill, its double tide made it good for the maritime trade.

The Cornmill at Ashlet Creek.

Calshot Spit with its ancient 1580 Castle and modern outdoor sport centre.

Lepe, a hotspot for visitors where the D Day Mulberry Harbour was constructed.

• The privately owned Beaulieu River and the old ship building village of Bucklers Hard.

• The salt pans and salt barns which were a major industry between the 1700s and 1850.

• • • •

It is important that there is a balance between conservation and recreation.

The coastal Ranger liaises with the public to ensure heritage & conservation co-exist with tourism & activities in this special environment.

14

Programme of Events There will be no meetings in April or May. Thu 21st Jun: Boules & BBQ at the Green Dragon. 7.00pm There will be no meetings in July, August or September.

Thu 18th Oct: ‘A Sorry Affair’ The Southampton & Salisbury Canal was a child of the canal mania of 1792 when investors were willing to put their money into any canal scheme in order to receive large profits. It was seen originally as part of a more general scheme for inland waterway routes linking Bristol and the Thames with the south coast. However, history presents a sad tale of a project ineffectively controlled and the canal lost its shareholders a great deal of money and indeed the canal was never completed. Peter Oates will be telling us about our local canal.

Thu 15th Nov: Ron & Myra Glover together with Dave Thomas took a week’s holiday on “Vic 32”, a Clyde Puffer. They will be relating their experiences whilst onboard as they pass through the locks on the Crinan Canal and as they steam around the Western Isles of Scotland.

Thu 6th Dec: Waterways quiz organised by Southampton Canal Society at Chilworth village hall.

Thu 13th Dec: Christmas Dinner at The Green Dragon Alderbury, 7.00pm Unless otherwise stated, meetings are at The Green Dragon, Old Road, Alderbury, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP5 3AR starting at 7.30pm when visitors will be warmly welcomed. Further information can be obtained from Ron & Myra Glover on 01722 710322 email glover.3@btinternet.com or Jon Van de Geer on 01722 412841.

Guildford & Reading Branch Branch Chairman In the last year IWA have been very active. We now have a joined-up restoration organisation with a Restoration Hub chaired by John Dodwell who, as many know, has been very active for inland waterways for many years. Jenny Black has written an article about the Hub to keep you all fully informed. This means, at long last, WRG and IWA efforts will be coordinated. They will focus not just on restoration but also on restorations where there is a need for improvement, such as the Kennet Navigation and the Basingstoke, where WRG has been active for many years.

15 We also have the Rebranding of IWA, and you will find Alicen Stenner’s article in this issue of Cargoes. Branch and volunteer effort are also going to be brought up to the mark.

It is disappointing that the two transfers to CRT, namely the Basingstoke and the EA waterways are on hold. IWA must continue to try to broker deals on both these fronts.

My own early waterway activity will no doubt centre on the Wey. I have a trip to Alsace planned for the summer. No doubt a trip on the Thames barge and some sailing. Given the winter, there should be no shortage of water. By the time you read this I guess you will have attended our AGM where I will give a full update. I will also see what appetite there is for social activities. We also have the joint meeting with the K &A Reading branch where I will try and get a first rate speaker.

Sadly, leading light in the south of our area, Linda Wilkinson, has passed away.

Thank you, Philip for the deserved tribute to her work. It is pleasing that the Wey and Arun have opened another lock and continue their long restoration work.

Good boating and hopefully see you at the AGM. Gareth Jones

Sales & Publicity Stand Due to the unwelcome passing of Ray our attendance at various show and events during 2017 was severely curtailed. We did manage to attend the Beale Park Boat Show and the River Wey Festival at Dapdune Wharf and our thanks must go to Ben Scott and his team. We are looking forward to flying the IWA flag at the following events: Fri 1st, Sat 2nd & Sun 3rd Jun: Beale Park Boat and Outdoor Show Sat 16th Jun: Reading WATERFEST Sun 8th Jul: Newbury Show Sat 22nd Sep: Wey River Festival If you can help at any of these events please let Ben Scott on 07484o 223691 or any of the Cargoes team know, or email cargoes@waterways.org.uk . Further details will be in the next edition of Cargoes.

The Sales Team

Forthcoming Events We hope Branch members will find the following meetings of interest: Mon 26th Mar: The AGM will take place at 7.30pm the National Trust’s premises at Dapdune Wharf, Wharf Road, Guildford, Surrey GU1 4RR. Tue 15th May: Joint meeting with K & A Reading (see page 19)

16

Bits on the Basingstoke The discussions between the councils and CRT appear to have neither failed nor succeeded. They are working towards a transfer over the next up to five years.

This is in my view the sort of protracted romance that is never fulfilled. I understand that the councils wish to deal with some of the higher risk issues and do what they can to increase revenue. CRT are very keen on moving forward. They as reported elsewhere attended the most recent JMC and while deferential to the current owners expressed keenness for the transfer. Working with the Canal Society IWA will need to facilitate this marriage and where it can find source money to bridge the obvious funding gap. On balance this is positive but momentum must be maintained and a deal brokered.

Gareth Jones

Basingstoke Canal Society Chairman’s Report At the Joint Management Committee meeting on 30th November 2017 members were given a very upbeat presentation by Peter Walker of the C&RT. The message from the Trust was positive and they are clearly interested in finding an viable basis for accepting a transfer of the canal. The point was made that the C&RT currently do not manage any waterways in the south-east of England (if the K&A is excluded) so, as the national operator, they would welcome the opportunity to take on the Basingstoke. Peter Walker also said the proposed timeframe of 5 years to complete the transfer was probably too long. There is clearly a long way to go before we achieve what the Society believes will be the best outcome for the canal but we are very encouraged by the positive tone of the negotiations.

Progress is being made on the proposal to repair Swan Cutting, North Warnborough which has become an increasing concern to us in recent years.

Landowner consents are being obtained to access the offside bank so that further survey work can be undertaken by the IWA’s Hon Consulting engineer, Roy Sutton.

Hampshire County Council is also setting aside sums in the capital budgets for the next two years to cover design and construction costs but it is likely that the Society will be asked for some support either in cash or kind. An application will shortly be made for planning consent to improve the camp site at the Canal Centre by the provision of hard standings and a new amenity block. A start on the construction of a new quay adjacent to the World Wildlife Fund building in Woking is imminent.

On 2nd September a raft race is being organized by the Society on the section of the canal between the North Warnborough Lift Bridge and Colt Hill. Volunteers are needed to support this event. If you are interested, please contact Philip Riley on 01256 702109 e-mail: wincombecottage2@gmail.com Philip Riley

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Chobham Social Meetings The meetings will be held as usual on the third Wednesday of the month at the Parish Pavilion, Recreation Ground, Station Road, Chobham, nr. Woking GU24 8AZ commencing at 8pm.

Coffee/tea and biscuits will be available during the interval. Raffle and retiring collection. Non-members and friends are very welcome. Please pass the word around. The programme is shown below: Wed 21st Mar, 800pm, BCS: ‘Whitchurch Silk Mill’ by Deborah Wheeler Join us for a virtual tour of a Georgian silk weaving water mill, see, hear and feel its fascinating history and beautiful fabrics.

Wed 18th Apr: Canal & River Trust Engineering a 200 Year Old Infrastructure by Neil Owen The presentation will discuss the way in which Canal & River Trust are managing their Engineering Assets, including future improvement and the implication on the possible adoptions of Waterway managed by other Navigation Authorities.

Further information from David Millett on 01252 617364 or email d.millett7@ntlworld.com or www.basingstoke-canal.org.uk

Trips aboard the John Pinkerton II Public Trips in Hampshire aboard the John Pinkerton II restart on Friday 30th March and run until Sunday 30th September– see www.basingstokecanal.org.uk/jp/public-trips Or join us in Woking aboard the Society’s trip boat Kitty for a cruise in the beautiful surroundings of the Basingstoke Canal. Enjoy a cruise past Horsell Common, a short distance from the setting for HG Wells’ “War of the Worlds”, and see the town from a completely different, and peaceful, perspective.

We run Public Trips on Wednesdays, Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays at various times throughout the summer, each trip lasting approximately 1¼ hours if no stops are made. For details of the trip schedule, http://www.basingstokecanal.org.uk/jp/kitty/ .You can book as individuals or family groups on public trips, up to a maximum of 12 people, and you will be sharing the boat with others.

Private charters are also available

Fri 20th Apr, 7.00pm, Quiz & Curry Night Cruise, Teams of 3-5 people, or join another team on the night. Tickets: Adults £20 including curry.

Fri 4th May, 7.00pm, Sea Shanties & Ale Cruise, Haslefolk Sea Shanty Crew, Tickets: Adults £25, including fish & chips.

18 Wed 9th May, 3.00pm, Cream Tea Cruise, with piano accompaniment. An approx. 2½ hour trip. Tickets: Adults £18.

Fri 8th Jun 7.00pm, Blues & Ale Cruise, Dan Sowerby Duo. Tickets: Adults £25 including fish & chips.

Wed 13th Jun 3.00pm, Cream Tea Cruise, with piano accompaniment. An approx. 2½ hour trip. Tickets: Adults £18.

Fri 29th Jun 7.00pm, Wine & Food of France Cruise, Taste the wines and gastronomy of France, delivered to the boat. Tickets: Adults £25 inclusive.

Fri 29th Jun 7.00pm, Wine & Food of France Cruise, Taste the wines and gastronomy of France, delivered to the boat. Tickets: Adults £25 inclusive.

Fri 6th Jul 7.00pm, Acoustic & Ale Cruise. Still Crazy Duo. Tickets: Adults £25 including fish & chips.

Wed 11th Jul 3.00pm, Cream Tea Cruise, with piano accompaniment. An approx. 2½ hour trip. Tickets: Adults £18.

Sat 21st Jul 9.30am, Farnborough Air Show, departing from the Fox and Hounds pub, Fleet. An all-day trip. Moor at Runways End, with excellent view of flying display. Tickets: £20.

Other Events

Sat 19th May, 2.00pm, Fortieth Annual General Meeting of the Surrey & Hampshire Canal Society: at Deepcut Village Centre, Swordsman’s Road, Deepcut GU16 6TB, followed by the Robin Higgs Award and a talk by Richard Davenport, Chair of the Trustees Maidenhead Waterways Restoration Group.

Fri 6th Jul, 7.30pm, Mikron Theatre Group, Revolting Women: The previously annual visit from the Mikron Theatre Group did not take place last year because the Fox & Hounds’ management was not interested and the Fleet Football Club had decided to stop hiring out their hall which had previously been used in bad weather. This year, David Millett has arranged for the performance to take place in the garden of the Water Witch at Colt Hill, Odiham.

Sun 2nd Sep, Odiham Raft Race: The idea of a raft race on the canal in Odiham came from Parish Councillor David Stewart who has been doing most of the organising, including getting approval from Natural England! The Society has agreed to run the event, which will be covered by our insurance. The intention is that teams will start from Lodge Copse Bridge and make their way down to Colt Hill. What has yet to be decided is what sort of bank-side entertainment at Colt Hill will be provided. Philip Riley has so far been representing the Society but is keen to get others involved. It is certain that people will be needed on the day to help with marshalling but help with the organisation of the day is also needed – another opportunity to help the Society! Please contact Philip on 01256 702109 or by email at wincombecottage2@gmail.com

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Kennet & Avon Canal News Newbury Branch Newbury sees a new season of boat trips starting on Easter Monday on-board MV Jubilee. Continuing through the year until end of October, trips are at 12 noon and 2pm on Saturdays and Sundays and at 2.30pm on Thursdays. Extra trips, and our popular themed trips, will also feature during school holidays. See https://jubilee.katrust.org.uk/ for full details.

Thu 26th Apr, 7.30pm: Newbury Branch AGM in the Stone Building, Newbury Wharf. The AGM will be followed by an illustrated talk ‘Hapless in Holland’ based on several year’s boating in The Netherlands by Trust Chairman Rob Dean. This promises to be a friendly fun evening so please do come along; you don’t have to be a member to attend.

Sun 8th Jul, 11.30am-4.30pm: The Newbury Waterways Festival, is a few weeks earlier than usual this year with boaters arriving from Friday 6th. The Festival has a brand-new organising committee headed by Newbury Branch Chair Trevor Staig and it looks set to be another excellent weekend. Booking forms for boaters are available to download from the Trust website (http://katrust.org.uk/events). This year’s theme is ‘Reach for the Skies’, to mark the centenary of the RAF. Do come with or without your boat!

For further details contact Julie Dean juliedean@btinternet.com

Reading Branch The Reading Branch are continuing to hold their monthly meetings (no December meeting) at 7.45pm at The Grange Free Church, Circuit Lane, Southcote, Reading RG30 3HD (just off the A4 Bath Road).

Tue 20th Mar: Branch A.G.M. Wed 21st Mar: Branch Annual Lunch - The Butt Inn, Aldermaston Tue 17th Apr: Speaker - there will be one!

Tue 15th May: Joint meeting with IWA G&R Branch – tba

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Reading Water Fest & Reading Abbey Revealed I’m sure you’ve already seen the exciting news that this year’s Reading Water Fest will coincide with the official reopening of Reading Abbey and the start of the Reading Abbey Revealed Festival. We are really looking forward to an even bigger and better event this year and hope you will be able to join us on this very special day.

Reading Water Fest will be taking place on Saturday 16th June 2018 between 11am and 5pm. The event takes place in the Forbury Gardens, Abbey Ruins and along The Kennet, between Chestnut Walk and the Riverside Museum. Reading Borough Council and The Kennet & Avon Canal Trust are working together once again and hope you can join us for what we hope will be very enjoyable day!

The event will consist of live entertainment, children’s activities and refreshments, water activities, narrow boats, craft and charity stalls. If you would like to join us, please click here and complete the online application form. As a commercial organization, there will be a fee of £50. This will provide you with a 12ft frontage in the open air in which to set up your stand. You will need to bring your own tables and chairs. We offer space to all community and charity stalls free of charge!

We do expect demand to be high, so if you would like to attend I would be grateful if you could complete the online application form by Friday 11 May 2018. If you would like any further information, please do not hesitate in contacting me on 0118 937 2771 or lucy.daniels@reading.gov.uk Lucy Daniels, Events Manager, Reading Borough Council Branch contact is: John Swift who can be reached on 0118 941 5540 or 07533 886 917 and by email: swift.john21@gmail.com Entry donation, including K&A members, £2.50 (to help with expenses).

Other meetings will be held as shown below and further details can be found on the Website at www.katrust.org.uk

Crofton Beam Engines Come and visit the oldest working steam engines in the world still performing the job they were built to do! There are two beam engines, one of which is an original 200-year-old Boulton & Watt. Both are fed by a hand-stoked, coal-fired Lancashire boiler. These are magnificent pieces of industrial archaeology appealing both to families and steam enthusiasts. The engine house is set in unspoiled Wiltshire countryside close to the old market town of Marlborough.

The Beam Engines can be run in steam to special order if you have an event you would like to celebrate or a group of people to whom you would like to give a unique experience. Also, the engines are available to use by film and broadcasting organisations, for instance when portraying themes of the industrial revolution,

21 great inventors, canal transport and steam as motive power. The beautiful surroundings make this an ideal location for filming.

Prices depend on a number of factors which will differ according to the chosen date and bookings are subject to the terms and conditions set out here.

Please contact us if you want to receive more details.

Upcoming Events Sat 31st Mar to Mon 2nd Apr: Easter steaming weekend Sat 5th to Mon 7th May: Early May Bank holiday steaming weekend Sat 26th to Mon 28th May: Late May Bank Holiday steaming weekend Sat 23rd & Sun 24th Jun: Crofton steaming weekend Sat 28th & Sun 29th Jul: Crofton holiday steaming weekend Sat 25th to Mon 27th Aug: August Bank Holiday steaming weekend Sat 29th & Sun 30th Sep: Crofton Steam Gala Sun 28th Oct: Halloween steaming weekend More information from http://www.croftonbeamengines.org

Maidenhead Waterways Restoration Group Richard Davenport, Chair of the Trustees Maidenhead Waterways Restoration Group, reports on the latest developments: ‘Bringing the Thames into Town’ Construction of the first half (York Stream) of Maidenhead’s waterways ‘Ring’ is nearing completion, in conjunction with the ongoing regeneration of the town centre. The temporary dam at Town Moor has now been removed and flow returned to the enlarged York Stream channels. The water level in the northern sections is already close to target, illustrating nicely how the final scheme will look, with a much closer relationship between the water and the streamside paths. Further south the water levels will remain low until the weir, fish/eel pass and boat rollers are added at Green Lane later this year. Once the weir is constructed the water level will rise to fill the remaining enlarged sections and will also back up the adjoining Moor Cut channel which is to be deepened in a future stage.

The final ‘linking’ section of the York Stream arm of the waterway is being built by Shanly Group as part of its Chapel Arches Phase 3 development, creating a

22 mini version of Reading's Oracle set around a small water basin on the north side of the restored road bridge. Demolition work on the north side of Chapel Arches is underway in readiness for Phase 3, whilst on the south side the low bridge parapet has been raised and the bridge re-faced in traditional lime rendering above the restored old brick arches. Timber cladding has also been added to the concrete reinforcements that were required to support the fragile c1825 bridge.

See the inside rear cover for photographs of the Maidenhead development.

River Thames News The River Thames has received good media coverage lately, largely due the work of the communications staff, with television coverage of lock refurbishment and some compliance operations. The Environment Agency staff are relieved that CRT will not be taking over the management of the Thames in the near future, which means that their justified concerns about pensions and job security have been allayed in the short term. The Thames team has been working hard to ensure that all craft are licensed by visiting marinas and meeting marina owners to build partnerships, as well as checking licenses. Boaters wishing to visit the Windsor area of the Thames during the time of the royal wedding are advised to check the E.A. website regularly for harbourmaster notices about restrictions and changes to the usual mooring points and they need to be aware that, if they are renting out space on their boats, they must comply with the conditions for commercial operators and check what is needed to comply with anti-terrorism advice. E.A are expecting in excess of one hundred craft during the week of the event.

Verna Smith

River Wey & Godalming Navigations Not unusually at this time of the year we are busy with weir keeping and lock stoppages. The long dry spell finally came to a finish on Christmas Day and the variable weather since then has meant constant weir operations. The good news is we will probably have plenty of water for navigation this year but see my note below on abstraction licences.

This winter we have re-planked the upper gates at St. Catherine’s and in doing so provided valuable training is use of work boats and the lifting gantry for some of our newer maintenance staff. We have replaced the upper gates Newark Lock, repaired the lowers and dewatered the upper wing walls to fully inspect them for defects.

23 Just before Christmas we took delivery of our new excavator and installed it on Hoe. The procurement of this has taken a long time and been a very tedious project. It isn’t easy to get a machine that will do what we need it to do and fit under the lowest bridges. It is however a valuable piece of kit, not only in monetary terms but also the amount a volume of work it enables the team to undertake.

Looking forward to the rest of the year we have bank works planned at Whippets Turn (Sutton place), steel sheeting the lower lock landing bays at Newark and Coxes Locks, repair work to the bypass weir at Papercourt Lock and hopefully some dredging next winter as well as replacing a pair of lock gates at probably Stoke and Coxes Locks. We still await confirmation that the EA will be going ahead with their project to replace the RWIS weirs at Ham Oil Mills, Walsham and Newark with accompanying towpath closures and diversions.

EA regulation - Abstraction Licences & increases to the cost for Environmental Permitting Permits: For the Wey catchment basically all “unused” water is allocated to the River Thames. Since the Water Resources Act 2003 the EA have been trying to introduce abstraction licencing for navigations. Abstraction Licences for navigation will be introduced this year but luckily for the Wey it looks very much like we will not be covered by the scheme. It will however provide difficulty and increased costs for CRT waters and the Basingstoke Canal.

It isn’t that we don’t support the aim of protecting and enhancing the environment in a balanced and proportionate manner but the proposed 500%+ (from £170 to over £750 for a simple permit) increases for Environmental Permits from 1st April causes us a lot of concern. We need these permits to work on main river sections of the navigation, mostly soft bank works but also for dewatering weirs for inspection etc. While agreeing regulation should fund itself we have real concerns about the efficiency and accountability of the EA permitting regime i.e. as a centralised function with no local knowledge or experience input until the end stages it costs a fortune to run the operation and we and you as end users have to foot the bill for the inefficiency. There is also the matter of consistency and a level playing field – we see many examples of people undertaking work without permits and when reported to EA no action is taken.

Planning applications and development alongside the waterway is also providing many challenges at the moment. While we are happy to work with Guildford Borough Council on the replacement Walnut Tree Bridge in the town centre we have some concerns regarding the introduction of “Boris” bikes. This is likely to increase the use of the towpath for cycling along while we will receive no contribution towards increased maintenance costs. We note the possibility of double decking Millbrook car park which would interrupt views from the navigation and conservation area up Quarry Street to the castle. Finally we have objected strongly to the planned development opposite Dapdune Wharf which includes an 11 story tower block which would be completely over bearing and out of character for the area.

I’m now looking for something positive to end this piece with. Well summer is around the corner and with the warmer weather boating is on the horizon! We have a few new improvements on the waterway, not all of our doing but we have helped where we can. At Godalming we hope we have finally got the sanitation working properly but more to do there. We are close to completing the first phase

24 of refurbishing Farncombe Boat House with steel sheeting around the whole peninsula well underway and due for completion by the end of February. Geoff Cook should have the Send mooring basin in operation by March (it is now in water) which will provide additional facilities such as water, fuel and pump out in the middle of the waterway. We plan to improve the elsan point at the southern end of New Haw Mooring line, the M25 end, to make this more accessible for all boaters.

I hope you have an enjoyable AGM at Dapdune Wharf on the 26th March.

John Gibson, Navigations Manager,

Forthcoming Events Boat trips from Dapdune Wharf We have three electric launches, Dapdune Belle (see picture on inside front cover), Sir Richard Weston and Seewey and being electric, they are very quiet.

The volunteer skippers have an interesting tale to tell - all about the history of the area you will be passing through on your trip. In summer, the damselflies dart in and out of the boat, shining emerald and blue.

Most trips head towards Guildford, passing what used to be the manufacturing quarter, with the Electric Theatre - the former electricity works for Guildford until 1868, and the site of Moon's timber yard - now Debenhams.

Sometimes our volunteer skippers decide they need a change and head downstream towards Stoke lock, passing lovely bankside vegetation and offering you a completely different view of Guildford.

Trips can only be booked at the ticket hut on the day and are not available for advanced booking. When the river is in flood, we're unable to operate the boat. As the boats take a maximum of 12 passengers, on busy days they get booked up very quickly, so there are times when there may only be seats for the last boat left.

Tues 1st & 15th May, 5th & 19th Jun & 3rd Jul 2pm-6pm, Toll House Turbine Tour, Dapdune Wharf: Take our electric boat to Millmead Lock and visit the Guildford Borough Council Hydro Project. Includes a tour of the Toll House, where a reinstated turbine is once again generating hydro-electricity. Return trip to Dapdune followed by tea and cake. Booking essential on 01483 561389 ÂŁ12.50.

Sat 14th Jul, 11am-4pm, Puffing-a-Wey, Dapdune Wharf: Come and soak up the atmosphere as the Steam Boat Association of Great Britain come and show off their magnificent steam powered craft. Themed activities for children and some free steam boat rides on the river.

Sat 22nd Sep, from 11am, Wey River Festival, Dapdune Wharf, Guildford: We welcome boaters and visitors alike to celebrate everything that is great about the river. They'll be plenty to do such as willow weaving, children's crafts, Surrey Wood Turners and many other foodie and activity stands. The illuminated pageant at dusk is the highlight of the day, lighting up the river from the centre of Guildford.

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Southampton Canal Society The Annual Inter-Society Waterways Quiz As always, our yearly programme rounded off with the popular Inter- Society Waterways Quiz, twenty-two members and visitors supported the four teams. We welcomed back • The Basingstoke Canal Society members Jeff Hill, Dave Wedd, Paul Herbert and Rosemary Davis.

• IWA Salisbury Group with Colin Davis, Tony Fry, Nick & Liz Grundy.

• IWA Guildford & Reading Branch with Ben Scott, Mike Lewis, David Danes and Tony Davis.

• Southampton Canal Society, Alan Rose, Brian Evans, Gordon Osborn and Aelred Derbyshire.

As last year’s winners it was IWA Salisbury’s’ turn, for the second year running, to arrange the questions. This involved six people in the setting of the Quiz. Yes! We had a slightly different format as Myra Glover handed out lengths of rope for a practical round showing off various knot tying skills of the teams. Round 2 by Eric Lewis, drifting around from the 70’s. Naming watering holes around the system. Southern Waters which was not a strong point for Guildford & Reading or the Basingstoke teams. Cruising rings came next, to include the main pin points, i.e.

Warwickshire Ring, Stourport Ring, Cheshire Ring and the Four Counties Ring. The Quiz ended up with a musical round.

All the team places were close but finally Salisbury IWA pressed ahead to be champions again.

Many thanks to Myra & Ron, Eric Lewis, the Scorer Sue Lewis and Colin Davis. A big thank you must go to Dave Thomas whose very professional presentation was appreciated by everyone. The evening finished with traditional American Supper-many thanks to our members for providing such a wide selection of food and to those who assisted in the galley and the setting up and clearing of the furniture.

Angela Rose

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Forthcoming Events Thu 5th Apr, 7.45pm: The Heroes & Villains of the Basingstoke Canal.

This canal largely owes its existence to a few people at critical points in its history.

Some of their actions were soundly commercial or altruistic and some fraudulent and criminal. Roger Cansdale tells about these heroes and villains.

Thu 3rd May, 7.45pm: No May Meeting. As always, there will be NO May Meeting.

Thu 7th Jun 7.45pm: To be arranged.

Meetings, unless specifically stated otherwise, are held at Chilworth Parish Hall, Chilworth Southampton SO16 7JZ. Start 7.45pm Visitors welcome. For monthly Newsletter visit www.sotoncs.org.uk or ring 02380 675312.

Wey and Arun Canal Trust WACT News Completion of latest lock restoration by the Wey & Arun Canal Trust The Wey & Arun Canal Trust are proud to announce that the official completion of Gennets Bridge Lock will be celebrated on Saturday, 21st April 2018 at midday.

This is the Trust’s latest restoration project and also marks the retirement of Mr Eric Walker, MBE, leader of the volunteer team who have worked on the lock for the last two years. Our guest of honour will be Mr Nigel Gibbons who has been a huge support during the project.

Work started in June 2015 after the required protected species measures were complete. The lock is situated on the Surrey/Sussex border path.

“Most of the work has be carried out by volunteers but some critical parts of the construction project were undertaken by contractors,” said Sally Schupke, Trust Chairman. “The piling and concrete shell were installed by our contractors, Burras Ltd, with the rest of the work completed by our team of volunteers”.

We invite visitors to join us in the celebrations at the lock side on the 21st April. Parking will be available at Loxwood North Hall (on the B2133 in Loxwood village) and it is a short (but maybe muddy) walk to the lock. A map and souvenir brochure will be available from our publicity stand at Loxwood North Hall.

Further details are available on our website www.weyandarun.co.uk together with details of boat trips from our canal centre during the day.

27 WRG Restoration Holidays at the Wey & Arun Canal Trust Waterway Recovery Group’s (WRG) 2018 Canal Camp programme will feature 28 Canal Camps across 13 different waterways. More than 400 volunteers are expected to sign up to the week-long residential camps, as well as three family camps. The aim of the programme is to support the admirable work being carried out by local canal restoration groups to help return even more canals back to navigation. WRG’s canal camps are open to anyone aged over 18 and a full list of dates can be found online.

Mike Palmer, WRG Chairman said “Canal Camp volunteers have the chance to learn new skills, meet new people and enjoy new experiences. WRG Camps aim to give a significant boost to local restoration societies through an influx of volunteers over a single week or series of weeks and allow substantial progress to be made over a short space of time. Our volunteers both seasoned and new can be found restoring locks, re-lining canals, creating towpaths, removing vegetation and uncovering archaeological artefacts. 2018 is set to be an exciting year for us.”

This year WRG are supporting the Wey & Arun from 7th to 14th July and from 20th to 27th October Volunteers will be working on two projects this year. One at Birtley to help create 850m of towpath and recreational paths. The second project will begin the creation of a new visitor and boardwalk for a nature conservation zone located nearby, both projects aim to encourage visitors to come and see this historic canal and encourage interest in the countries industrial heritage.

To book a space go to https://www.waterways.org.uk/wrg/canal_camps or call Alex Melson, Volunteers Coordinator, on 01494 783 453 for more details.

Forthcoming Events Public trips in 2018 begin on Saturday 31st March and run every Saturday, Sunday & Bank Holiday Monday until Sunday 28th October.

Private charters are also available Fri 30th Mar, 11am, 12 noon and 2pm: Easter Bunny Specials - All your favourite Easter characters will be here to entertain you. Come along and join in the fun. A chocolate gift and drink is included for each child and hot cross buns for the adults. From our Loxwood Canal Centre. Tickets £10.00. Booking essential.

Sun 1st Apr, 11am, 12 noon and 2pm: Easter Bunny Specials - All your favourite Easter characters will be here to entertain you. Come along and join in the fun. A chocolate gift and drink is included for each child and hot cross buns for the adults. From our Loxwood Canal Centre. Tickets £10.00. Booking essential.

Mon 2nd Apr, 11am, 12 noon and 2pm: Easter Bunny Specials - All your favourite Easter characters will be here to entertain you. Come along and join in the fun. A chocolate gift and drink is included for each child and hot cross buns for the adults. From our Loxwood Canal Centre. Tickets £10.00. Booking essential.

28 Sat 21st Apr AGM (Members only) at North Hall, Guildford Road, Loxwood Sat 21st Apr AGM (Members only) at North Hall, Guildford Road, Loxwood Thu 24th May, 2.15pm & 4.30pm: Cream Tea Voyages - Sit back, relax and th May, 2.15pm enjoy a delicious cream tea our electric canalTea boat, Wiggonholt, whilstrelax watching Thu 24 & on 4.30pm: Cream Voyages - Sit back, and the beautiful countryside pass Booking essential. enjoy a delicious cream tea on by. ourTickets electric£14.00. canal boat, Wiggonholt, whilst watching the beautiful countryside pass by. Tickets £14.00. Booking essential.

Thu 31st May, 11am, 2.00pm: Pirates & Princesses - They're back! Come and help the naughty back to the high seas where-they belong!

Join in the 11am, pirates 2.00pm: Pirates & Princesses They're back!

Come and Thu drive 31st May, excitement andnaughty help defeat theback pirates andhigh rescue the princess!

Fancy dress help drive the pirates to the seas where they belong!

Join is in the definitely Fromthe our Loxwood TicketsFancy £12.00.

Booking excitementencouraged! and help defeat pirates and Canal rescueCentre. the princess! dress is essential. definitely encouraged! From our Loxwood Canal Centre. Tickets £12.00. Booking essential.

Sun 3rd Jun: Poddle - The walk starts and finishes at Walberton Village Hall, near Arundel, the total distance is about miles.at Sponsorship forms are Poddle - The walk starts and 11 finishes Walberton Village Hall, Sun 3rd Jun: and available fromand events@weyandarun.co.uk Further details will be available shortly near Arundel, the total distance is about 11 miles.

Sponsorship forms are on our website www.weyandarun.co.uk. Further details will be available shortly available from events@weyandarun.co.uk on our website www.weyandarun.co.uk.

Fri 8th Jun, 7.30pm: Pimm’s & Picnic Sunset Cruise - The first evening cruise the season offers passengers the opportunity to experience a leisurely 7.30pm: Pimm’s & Picnic Sunset Cruise - The first evening Fri 8thofJun, summer tripoffers on the canal sipping a glass of Pimm's and tucking into a cruise of evening the season passengers the opportunity to experience a leisurely delicious picnic. Tickets summer evening trip on £20.00. the canalBooking sipping essential. a glass of Pimm's and tucking into a Wed 13thpicnic.

Jun, 2.15pm & 4.30pm: Cream Tea Voyages - Sit back, relax and delicious Tickets £20.00.

Booking essential. th Jun, 2.15pm enjoy a delicious cream tea our electric canalTea boat, Wiggonholt, whilst Wed 13 & on 4.30pm: Cream Voyages - Sit back, relax and watching the beautiful pass by.canal Tickets £14.00.

Booking essential. enjoy a delicious creamcountryside tea on our electric boat, Wiggonholt, whilst watching the beautiful countryside pass by. Tickets £14.00. Booking essential.

Sun 17th Jun, 9.45am & 12 noon: Dad’s Bacon Butty Brunch - On Father's Day, your 9.45am Super Dad trip onDad’s the canal whilst enjoying a tasty bacon butty Sun treat 17th Jun, & to 12anoon: Bacon Butty Brunch - On Father's washed down teaDad or coffee.

From ourcanal Loxwood Canal Centre.

Adults £14.00, Day, treat yourwith Super to a trip on the whilst enjoying a tasty bacon butty Children £10.00. essential. washed down withBooking tea or coffee.

From our Loxwood Canal Centre. Adults £14.00, Children £10.00. Booking essential.

Thu 28th Jun, 2.15pm & 4.30pm: Cream Tea Voyages - Sit back, relax and th Jun, 2.15pm enjoy28 a delicious cream tea our electric canal boat, Wiggonholt, whilst & on 4.30pm: Cream Tea Voyages - Sit back, relax and Thu watching the beautiful pass by.canal Tickets £14.00.

Booking whilst essential. enjoy a delicious creamcountryside tea on our electric boat, Wiggonholt, watching the beautiful countryside pass by. Tickets £14.00. Booking essential.

Thu 17th Jul, 2.15pm & 4.30pm: Cream Tea Voyages - All your favourite th Jul, 2.15pm Easter will be&here to entertain you.

Come along -and the fun. A Thu 17characters 4.30pm: Cream Tea Voyages All join yourinfavourite chocolate gift and will drink included for each child and along hot cross forthe thefun. adults.

Easter characters beishere to entertain you.

Come andbuns join in A From our gift Loxwood Canal Tickets £14.00.

Booking essential. chocolate and drink is Centre. included for each child and hot cross buns for the adults.

From our Loxwood Canal Centre. Tickets £14.00. Booking essential.

Further details and booking from the Trust Office on 01403 752403. office@weyandarun.co.uk Further details and bookingwww.weyandarun.co.uk from the Trust Office on 01403 752403.

Northern Office Phone: 01483 505566 (Mondays-Thursdays, 8.30am-12.30pm) office@weyandarun.co.uk www.weyandarun.co.uk Northern Office Phone: 01483 505566 (Mondays-Thursdays, 8.30am-12.30pm)

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Kent & East Sussex Branch Future IWAKES and Other Events Thursday 22nd March 2018: 7:30 for 8.00pm: Christ Church United Reformed Church, High Street, Tonbridge, Kent. TN9 1SG: ‘Narrowboating on Tidal Waters’: Nick Grundy Sunday 27th May 2018: Dartford Lock. Riverside Way, Dartford. DA1 5BS: ‘Nautical Festival’: Morris dancing, Music, Bar aboard ‘Decima’.

Wednesday 4th July 2018: Meet 12.30, Depart 12.45, Ret 16.45 (for cream tea): Bodiam Boating station, Rye Road, Newenden, Kent TN18 5PP: River Rother Boat Trip: RoyDavidSutton@Yahoo.co.uk for details or bookings.

Thursday 27th September 2018: 7.30 for 8.00pm: Strood Yacht Club, Knight Road, Strood, Kent. ME2 2AH: ‘The Caledonian Canal’: Roger Squires Thursday 15th November 2018: 7.00 for 7.30pm: The Upper Room, Perrymount Methodist Church, Perrymount Road, Haywards Heath. RH16 3DM (near the railway station and 200 yards from Clair Hall): Either ‘The evolution of a charity trip boat operation’ or ‘Newhaven Harbour’: Sussex Ouse Restoration Trust and IWAKES joint event.

Wednesday 12th December 2018: 7.30 for 8.00pm: Gravesend Sailing Club, East Promenade, Gravesend. DA12 2BS: Get together with Thames & Medway Canal Association: ‘Historic Waterway Films’: Les Etheridge Tea and coffee are available at all IWAKES evening meetings.

Venue maps can be found at www.waterways.org.uk/kent/kent_east_sussex

IWAKES Chairman’s Piece It is a daunting task to follow the late Mike Hannan as IWAKES Chairman.

Thanks to Mike’s skilled leadership we have a strong committee and good representation on all the major waterways and restorations within the branch area.

Thus, enabling us to deliver IWA’s objective of protecting and restoring our canals and rivers and you can read all about this in the articles from other members of our committee.

I would be delighted to hear from members on any aspect of our work or with suggestions as to topics for our social meetings (Les.Etheridge@waterways.org.uk).

If you can spare just a few hours now and then to help our important work to ensure that our wonderful waterways are fully appreciated, then please do get in touch. My colleagues and I will appreciate the support and encouragement.

Les Etheridge – IWAKES Chairman

30

Past Events ‘Narrowboats to the Medway’: Simon Judge Simon Judge spoke to twenty IWAKES members about the St Pancras Cruising Club trip from London to the head of the River Medway. The trip took a bit of organising. Eleven narrowboats made the journey in thankfully kind weather.

Eventually they all arrived at the Town Pier pontoon at Gravesend and took allotted moorings breasted up six deep. After being fed and watered they spent a pleasant night in Gravesend. Next morning, they set off down the Thames, joined by a sailing yacht, soon turning into the Medway and more familiar territory. One super shot was of a sailing barge with Upnor Castle in the background. The whole trip was very highly planned beforehand. They travelled up to the Leigh Barrier. On the return journey they travelled from Queenborough to London non-stop on a very calm day. They are considering a future trip to the Chelmer & Blackwater.

‘Thames and Medway River Crossings’: Rob Poole On October 26th a dozen members gathered at Gravesend Sailing Club for a talk about the crossings of the Thames and Medway. Rob Poole told us that seventeen crossings are now in operation. Dartford Crossing (probably the most famous) was delayed by the war and the pilot tunnel may have been used to test jet engines. It is 1600 yards long, with the approach roads amounting to nearly four miles. In 1980 a second tunnel was opened. The Queen Elizabeth Bridge was opened in 1991. At the Greenhythe to West Thurrock Ferry pilgrims said mass before the crossing. The wherry was the favoured type of boat for the crossing.

Early ferries from Gravesend landed at Tilbury Fort and cost six pence. Hence, a sixpence was known as a ‘Tilbury’ for many years. Ferry names included Tessa, Mimmie, Edith, Rose and Catherine. The present ferry is ‘Duchess M’. Rob Poole went on to tell us so much about the crossings that we lost count. So, do not miss the chance to hear him.

‘The River Ouse, Source to Sea’: Geoffrey Mead A capacity crowd gathered at Haywards Heath for this joint IWA and Sussex Ouse Restoration Trust meeting to see how geology shapes the physical and human landscape and rural economy. There were at least five steam railway crossings of the river and lots of cement works. Denton, Newhaven and their hinterland were very busy in the 18th century. Geoffrey Mead showed lots of maps to illustrate his talk and told us about the rare plants in the area and how a roman bath house was uncovered at Barcombe Meadow. On the coast the beach shingle moves 20 hours out of 24: Every pebble wants to go to Dungeness.

‘Sailing Barges in their Heyday’: Tony Farnham Over forty members & friends gathered at Strood Yacht Club for a talk by Tony Farnham, a bargeman for much of his life. A neighbour was a skipper on Everard barges and he started on board with him aged about six. He was mate aboard Cambria for eighteen months aged about sixteen. For just a skipper and a boy setting the sails was very hard work. The barges carried bricks for an expanding London. At the brickyard the bricks had to be loaded carefully so as not to topple the barge. Hay was loaded so high a gaffer had to travel on the front of the barge to

31 shout instructions to the skipper at the tiller. Barges carried hay across the Channel for horses during the Great War. Some very small barges were able to navigate Strood Tunnel without lowering their masts. There are now no trading barges left.

The last of the line is Cambria. She has been entirely rebuilt in the last five years and is normally moored in Faversham Creek.

Angela Acott

Dartford & Crayford Navigation

Ken Moore has resigned as IWAKES Representative to the Dartford & Crayford Creek Restoration Trust (DCCRT) to care for an ill relative. If you could undertake this role then Les Etheridge (Les.Etheridge@waterways.org.uk) would be grateful to hear from you. You would become an IWAKES Committee member but need not attend meetings (unless you wish to). You would liaise with the Dartford & Crayford Creek Restoration Trust and inform the IWAKES Committee of developments.

The Weston Homes application (16/01601/FUL) s106 agreement includes restoration of the slipway near Welcome Mill (Abbott Murex). DCCRT has developed an outline design. But Weston Homes have sent an alternative proposal that omits the launching ‘steps’ for canoes and other features of that design.

Furthermore, it introduces a pedestrian bridge over the slipway that would prevent the launching of Wilderness boats and most, except the smallest, trailed craft.

Negotiation continues. But nothing has changed in three months; the only discussion being about investigatory excavations, which have now taken place.

Bexley Borough Council has rejected the application by Roxhill Developments to build a strategic rail-freight interchange (15/02673/OUTEA) and there will now be a public inquiry. All previous representations, including the IWAKES ones, have been forwarded to the Inspector.

Sailing barge ‘Decima’ negotiated Dartford Creek to moor below the lock [front cover]. But silt around the partly opened bottom gates prevents them opening wide enough to allow her to enter. Conrad Broadley and others are shown removing silt from behind the gates to get her into the chamber.

32

River Medway The Environment Agency (EA) Upper Medway Navigation Team have supported the Great British Spring Clean, a campaign to bring people across the country together to clear up the litter that blights our towns, villages, countryside and beaches. An army of #Litter Heroes have had enough of other-peoples’ litter and have done something about it. On Saturday 3rd March 10:00am - 12:30pm, for the Archbishops Palace to Allington Lock Part of the Great British Spring Clean weekend, staff and volunteers from Medway Valley Country partnership and the Environment Agency joined forces to collect litter from the tow path (and river) between Maidstone and Allington lock. www.keepbritaintidy.org The EA Team has also repaired locks, cleared fallen trees and carried out landing- stage maintenance from the River during the winter programme.

Oak Weir and Sluice Weir Locks (above) are repaired to reduce leakage and improve efficiency of the locks.

Tree removal (left) and landing stage repair (right) at East Farleigh.

River Medway Summer Events The boating community are hoping for an event on the Medway on the last weekend in July 28th/29th. There is also a possibility of an event at Whatman Park by the River on August Bank Holiday. More details hopefully in the next issue of Cargoes.

Boat Safety Scheme Examinations Do you have a boat? If so and it is due for its Boat Safety Examination this year, the BSS have announced that the Certificate fees are increasing from 1st April 2018 to ÂŁ36 +VAT. It is most likely that Boat Safety Examiners will pass this increase on to customers. The Boat Safety Scheme (BSS) Management Committee has agreed a new four-year business plan to resource its work to 2022 and invest in improvements that will have an even longer term. This is the first rise

33 Certificate fees in eight years. The Boat Safety Scheme is managed by the EA and the Canal and River Trust. It receives no government money. 90% of its income comes from Certificate fees. www.boatsafetyscheme.org Kentish Lady River Cruises offers trips to Allington Castle for groups and societies. The trip includes a tour of the 13th century Castle, Great Hall, courtyards and gardens. The castle is not open to the general public so a good opportunity for groups to see this magnificent castle. www.kentishlady.co.uk/boat_excursions Allington Belle offer Self Drive Day Boat hire to book at Fords Wharf Boat Yard near Allington from April to October. Another great way to explore the River Medway. www.allingtonbelle.co.uk. Allington Marina have announced that there will be no 2018 price increases for moorings and craning services.

Mike Marsh

River Adur An application, by the Southern Housing Group (SHG), to develop a 300m stretch along the banks of the River Adur was approved, at a recent planning committee meeting, by 4 votes to 3. The decision split on party lines with the Conservatives having the majority. No effort was made to get answers to questions raised by councillors e.g. what will an “affordable flat” actually cost. SHG stated that it would be illegal to contribute towards a public slipway. This is incorrect as contributions have been made elsewhere in the country towards slipways, under Section 106 legislation, in the same way as happens for infrastructure relating to other sports and leisure activities. A councillor stated that “slipways cause flooding”. Being a coastal town, Shoreham has many slipways and hards and none cause flooding. Statements in the Local Plan that slipways should be included in large riverside developments were ignored.

The Shoreham Slipways Group had requested that either a public hard within the site was reopened as a slipway or an S106 contribution made towards a public slipway elsewhere on the river Adur. Hence the decision to approve the plans without conditions was disappointing. I would like to thank those local IWA members who formally objected to the plans and backed the request for either a slipway or a compensatory payment.

The publicly accessible slipway at Emerald Quay will remain closed for the foreseeable future whilst the EA and their contractor revise the plans and amend the structure. It was originally expected that the slipway would be closed for about two months, starting in spring 2017, but the work is unlikely to be finished within twelve months. Even then there is possibility that the managing agents for the sites will reject the new slipway on safety grounds.

Brendan Whelan

34

Kentish Stour Water levels in early January were high but the Environment Agency (EA) refused to open the Stonar Cut gates, as would normally be done. There was a subsequent meeting with the EA Operations Team Leader (Stour). EA have started placing faggots at high water mark, apparently for bird life. These have narrowed the River and Roy Newing has written to EA on behalf of the ‘Downstream Interests Group’, copying to the Crown (whose land the River is).

National Grid are installing new power cables, for which they need to bridge the River. They appear to be putting the bridge too low for navigation. Roy Newing took them and EA to see the site by water on 6th February. It was agreed that National Grid would install posts with a warning ‘gauge’ line between them as well as temporary moorings up and down stream. They will also set up a contact telephone line giving times of closures.

Canterbury City Council have now imposed licensing on all craft in the City centre. Reportedly the high costs have driven punt operators away.

Roy Newing

Sussex Ouse Restoration Trust The Sussex Ouse Restoration Trust work-party is removing construction kit from the Isfield site, and cutting up the cleverly-converted horse box which has served as the site's 'welfare facilities' for many years. The parapet to the bridge at Bacon Wish Lock has been cleared of saplings and repointed with the owner's permission. Future strategy includes a trip boat, but plans are still in the very early stages. A revised membership leaflet has been printed and the website is being renewed and brought up to date.

Views of Sutton Hall (Isfield) Lock Report: Hazel Lintott Pictures: Terry Owen

35

Thames & Medway Canal Association The license from Network Rail for the Thames and Medway Canal Association to maintain the canal between Mark Lane and Shornemead Crossing, which ended on 31st August 2017, has now been renewed with a re-worded licence running from 14/12/2017 to 13/12/2022.

The wording of the new licence is unclear/unsatisfactory in some respects.

However, TMCA has accepted it as better than continuing to negotiate. The new licence was obtained following strong support from Gravesham Borough Council (GBC), Sustrans, IWAKES and Adam Holloway MP. BCM Construction has been appointed by Network Rail to construct a bridge across the canal to give access to the newly re-constructed TP Hut from the towpath. TMCA, GBC, Network Rail (NR) and BCM met on site on 12th December 2017. NR committed to providing 1.7m headroom over water level (as is currently provided by the Milton Ranges Halt footbridge). However, NR then made a planning application (dated 13/12/2017) to GBC (Ref 20171356) in which the bridge was shown level with the towpath. GBC formally objected!! As did IWAKES (6/1/2018). Subsequently GBC received an email from the Scheme Project Manager apologising for the application and promising to provide 1.7m headroom. In their follow-up GBC pointed out several other flaws in the design, the most serious of which is that the proposed ‘Type 1 fill’ foundation would replace puddle, causing leakage.

An eightmetre length of the gabions alongside the slipway at Mark Lane has failed in rotation following rusting of the tie-back wires at water level.

Gravesham Borough Council are planning the repair.

[Picture from Bernard Snell]

36

River Thames Dartford Borough Council (on 30th May 2017) refused permission for planning application DA/16/01137/FUL, Ingress Pier, Greenhythe. The developer then lodged a new planning application DA/17/01814/FUL, which was refused.

Ebbsfleet Development Corporation has now become the planning authority for the area and they have received another application. In the new application the Thames Estuary Path [www.thamesestuarypartnership.org/wpcontent/uploads/07-Kent-Thameside-Map-Pages-118-135.pdf] is, again, diverted inland along a service road, with buildings placed between it and the River, blocking the presently open view from the path to the River. The developer offers two ‘spine vistas’ with access between housing blocks, which are likely to become neglected dead ends and sources of nuisance. In the new application, again, the proposed slipway is within a locked compound for the Sea Scouts and has no public access.

IWAKES wrote a letter of objection on 29th January, asking for the path to be placed riverside of the housing and for the slipway to be publicly available with the new Sea Scout facilities integrated and able to make full use of it.

Eastern River Rother Could you become IWAKES’ Representative for the Eastern Rother, undertaking the task done by Mike Hannan until his recent death? You would be an IWAKES Committee member but not need to attend meetings (unless you wish to).

You would keep the Committee informed and would need to liaise with the Environment Agency and other interested parties regarding any developments.

Water control and flood management regimes in the Rother Valley are complex and impact on navigation. If you are interested then Les Etheridge would be pleased if you contact him (Les.Etheridge@waterways.org.uk).

Royal Military Canal An outline planning application, ref Y17/1042/SH, has been made to Shepway Borough Council for the Princes Parade area between the canal and the sea. It comprises 150 dwellings and much ancillary, including a leisure centre. It is presently registered, not determined. It is being strongly opposed and the background is complex. Details are available on https://you.38degrees.org.uk/petitions/no-development-on-prince-s-parade.

(Caution: Signing generates spam!!).

IWAKES Minutes The minutes of IWAKES Committee Meetings are public documents that give up-to-date information about waterways throughout the Branch area. They also show the actions being taken by your Committee. If you would like to receive the minutes by email please send an email to RoyDavidSutton@Yahoo.co.uk.

37

Oxfordshire Branch Branch Chairman The Oxfordshire Branch AGM The seasons come, and the seasons go, around and around often very similar with one year much like the last, but now is a time of change.

Sitting at my desk typing this article, it is a gloriously sunny Sunday Morning in the second week of February 2018. It has been cold of late but nothing too severe and once again the signs of Spring are all around us, and summer is not far away now.

Today is an ideal day to get down beside the canal, or the river bank, perhaps accompanied by a dog or two and my family of three generations, to enjoy likeminded company and the simple pleasures found beside any waterway, the ducks, the reflections on the water, the peace and quiet, the youngsters laughter.

A time for wrapping up warmly and enjoying a brisk walk to work up a healthy appetite before a welcome Sunday Pint at a favourite waterside pub, preferably at a seat next to a warm log fire.

This coming Thursday, that is what I hope to do before I meet up with our Branch Committee and our Regional Chair for lunch and a brief pre-meeting in preparation for our Annual General Meeting that I hope many of you will attend in March. In my case I intend to enjoy a walk at Thrupp before making my way to Sturdy’s Castle for lunch.

This leads me to raise the issue of our all working together to face up to and to address one of the major challenges for the Oxfordshire Branch; an important challenge that urgently needs to be the focus of our Branches future efforts. The issue we must address is how we are to promote and recruit waterway users from the River Thames over the next 12, 24 and 36 months as we agree our medium-term business plan with Head Office. Like it or not, agree with it, or not, our Branch is responsible for representing the IWA on the River Thames from Goring to Lechlade and for the Wilts Canal too.

As the Chair of a Branch with a responsibility for more miles of River Thames (60 miles) than miles of the Oxford Canal (35 Miles), not to mention the Wilts & Berks Canal (25 Miles), it is incumbent upon me working with our Regional Chair to urgently find a solution to this conundrum.

Following ongoing discussion with the Regional Chair Verna Smith and our former Regional Chair Gareth Jones who these days has a similar responsibility as the Chair of the IWA Guildford and Reading Branch (which includes the River Thames from Teddington to Goring, not to mention the River Wey, the Basingstoke canal and the Kennet and Avon where it meets the Thames in Reading), we have concluded that we must move on to see our branches all joining in with other adjacent branches at riverside events such as the Beale Park Boat Show in June for example. The Oxford City Waterways Festival, Banbury Canal Day and much more besides.

38 We need to work with the Environment Agency Senior Management and their Thames Lock Keepers to help promote our new IWA Brand image and values and to help distribute our leaflets and membership application forms. We need to give interesting talks to the Thames Boat Clubs extolling the virtues of the IWA, to discuss our restoration activities, above all at this stage we need to recruit many new Members from all walks of life, all ages and all interests, folks who choose to enjoy their activities on, or beside the River Thames, or on the Wilts & Berks Canal, or the Oxford Canal.

It has been mooted that perhaps we should establish two, or three sub committees with working groups, one for our 60 miles of River Thames, one for our 35 miles of the Oxford Canal, and one for our 25 miles of the Wilts & Berks canal.

Each of these sub-committees and working groups would be fully included and melded within the main IWA Oxfordshire Branch Committee itself, all targeted with recruiting one member per mile of waterway as an initial 2-year challenge. Giving us a Branch Membership Target for 2020 of 120 Members.

What is for certain is that with the recent re-branding of the IWA, the new objectives, the new thinking and all of the many challenges and opportunities that the future holds for an Ex-Brexit Britain, now is the time for the Oxfordshire Branch to join together in harmony and harness with our other Regional Branch colleagues and the Head Office Team, to all step up to the plate to plan for an all-embracing, very positive and expansive future for ALL of our local Inland Waterways.

Please lend your support to this “2020 Vision”, or at least attend the March AGM to frankly air your views and opinions and no doubt enjoy some good company, with refreshments provided.

Many thanks for all the kind and generous ongoing support you demonstrate for the IWA. Please do continue to work hard to interest our next generation in a least some of the many aspects of our work, after all, they are the future of our nation’s unique Inland Waterways heritage, capturing their interest and energy is vital.

Steve Good

Banbury Canal Partnership As I have said before, we do not work in the worst of the winter months we are currently looking at how we can expand the areas we renovate. Whilst we have repainted nearly all the locks in our patch as well as some bridges and fences, constructed new fences, laid some paving etc. we need some ideas as to what works we can do when the weather is inclement between April and November.

As a change and to enable a larger task to be tackled we have arranged a continuous 5 days towards the end of March. This will involve vegetation clearance, when we shall hopefully have available old working boat ‘Arbor’ together with the large chipper to make the waste more manageable. Tree trunks will be turned into fire wood. Whilst by the time this is published this event will be over I will report

39 the outcome in the next edition of Cargoes.

BCP being presented with a professional wood chipper donated by Castle Quay owners in July 2017.

A quarter page article was published by the Banbury Guardian at the time.

The Partnerships AGM will be held on the 4th of April, however the venue has yet to be finalised. You would be most welcome to attend so visit the website below to get more details.

The first working parties will resume on the third and fourth Tuesdays in April, venue to be announced, but we have agreed to repaint all the locks, hopefully starting at Pigeons Lock up to Claydon top lock. As they were last painted up to three years ago, we feel it is time they experienced our tender loving care again.

Whilst many hands make light work, many more hands would make even lighter work. So if you want a day out in the country side come and join us. You might just enjoy it so much you become a regular Please contact myself or Chairman Colin Garnham-Edge if you would like to be put on our emailing list Remember we have an email contact address: bcpontheoxford@gmail.com We also have a website which can be accessed by putting ‘Banbury Canal Partnership’ into Google or other search engines.

Brian Saunders, BCP/IWA Committee representative

Wilts & Berks Canal Two events recently brought to mind how long I’ve been interested in canals and involved in the Wilts & Berks and other canals: First a visit to Woking Theatre meant I passed through Chobham on the way which reminded me of a talk I did for the Basingstoke Canal Society some time ago. Secondly I had to drive down to Guildford for a family funeral which necessitated travelling around Odiham and of course passed over the glorious Basingstoke Canal. Reading the last Cargoes and the ongoing travails of maintenance and of the changes in the society brought forth by the passage of time reminds me of the hard work and dedication not to mention a complete faith in the benefit of full restoration of once derelict (or partially derelict) canals for which we must thank those that have gone before us. It also gives me food for thought and inspiration in the continuing challenges.

So back to the Wilts & Berks Canal.

Down at Dauntsey and the Peterborough Arms planning permission has been submitted for the new Dauntsey Lock Canal Centre which will be located behind the

40 pub building, to include office space and community rooms. We were recently awarded ÂŁ9945 from the Aviva Community Fund to purchase equipment for the community and training rooms at the Canal Centre.

At our AGM last October members had the opportunity to visit our recently completed stretch of canal at Studley Grange adjacent to a Biffa waste site.

Dredgings from the canal were used to help cap off the waste tip, thus saving a vast amount on land fill. Along the towpath there are notice boards and a wildlife trail but currently the path is not open to the public pending further works on access to the public footpath and the eastern end of the pound. There was a further opening on Boxing Day. At Swindon the Middle Wichelstowe housing development which straddles the historic line of the canal (in water and used by our tripboat Dragonfly) was renamed Canalside. Part of the canal south of the old railway bridge has been closed whilst infrastructure work takes place for a secondary school and pub, plus canalside housing. The canal is being re-profiled at the same time. Phase 2 of the work which includes new surfacing for the towpath and planting as well as restoring the southern section south of the new road bridge by Waitrose adjacent to the new pub and district centre should be completed by mid-summer. This would then return the navigable canal to the landing stage by Waitrose. The canalside development with a district centre and footbridge over the canal is most impressive.

Planning permission is in process for a further development to the east of the existing pound at Wichelstowe on the new route around the south of Swindon to gain access to the east and hence Oxfordshire (the Berkshire bit). Honestly sometimes I could curse the 1974 county changes!

Much work continues as regards the Swindon New Eastern Villages. These comprise as series of villages of in total about 10000 houses east of the A419 but within the Swindon Unitary Authority area. A new route for the canal is shown within the Swindon core strategy however we objected to a planning application in 2016 as we did not think that the building scheme addressed the flooding issues through the area concerned. We continue to press the case for an integrated flood scheme design to include construction of the canal.

Over the border in the Vale of White Horse DC are of Oxfordshire the council awaits the Inspection of the new local plan. Within that is the policy protecting the historic canal route and support for restoration.

In the Vale, I am again planning a series of Summer Festival walks in Wantage in June/July but the dates are not yet fixed so if interested please keep an eye out on our website Maintenance of our sections continues including work on our new leased section between the Challows villages west of Wantage. Housing continues apace locally and I await with bated breath what one of the developers actually finishes across the road from where I live! Canal restoration is not included within their planning but last year the Canal Trust put in a pre-planning application for the canal around the Wantage/Grove border.

The Sackhouse Museum in Wantage will re-open after the winter break on Weds 4th April 10-2pm and thereafter 1st and 3rd Weds and Saturday.

Brian Stovold, Chairman East Vale branch

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Puffing-a-Wey On 24th June 2017 the National Trust and the Steam Boat Association collaborated to run the Puffing-A-Wey event at Dapdune Wharf in Guildford.

A total of fourteen boats attended, including eleven steam launches, one steam narrowboat and two electric

launches. There were six open launches, Lady Amanda, Chimera, Chimera II, Sara Jane, Lady Heather, and Mazeppa, while Gladstone, Aurelia

and Zara Finn each sported a canopy.

Two launches, La Melinite and Selsey Lady had full length cabins and Trevor was a 45ft narrowboat powered by a 15 HP Sissons single cylinder steam engine. Most of the

launches were oil fired but Mazeppa was coal fired.

There was a variety of engine types, one and two cylinder, and simple and compound. Most of the steam boats had a unique accessory, the Windermere kettle, in which steam from the boiler passes through a copper tube in the kettle and quickly provides hot water for making tea.

The electric launches were Emerald, of traditional design, and Watts Ahead, with a modern fibreglass hull. It is interesting to note that for a few years

42 around 1900 the technology of electric propulsion was more advanced than that of the internal combustion engine and electric propulsion was widely used for leisure river cruising and is as important historically as steam propulsion.

I was pleased to renew my acquaintance with Mark Rudall, who gave us a talk at last year's AGM. He had brought his launch Chimera II and I was pleased to step aboard for a short cruise.

Mike Lewis

South London Branch VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES AT CANALWAY CAVALCADE Canalway Cavalcade is London’s biggest, brightest and best waterside festival taking place over the early May Bank Holiday weekend 5th -7th May. This unique waterway and community event is organised entirely by IWA volunteers and has been taking place at iconic Little Venice, near Paddington, since 1983. It attracts in the region of 30–35,000 visitors over the three days.

There are activities for all the family to enjoy, with a boaters’ gathering, a pageant of boats, dressed to the 2018 theme “Canal Builders”, stalls selling a multitude of different items - from Peruvian hats to flavoured sausages - live music and entertainments, kids’ activities - from modelling to creepy crawly shows - competitions, Morris Dancers, a real ale bar and a wide variety of delicious snacks and food.

Cavalcade is organised by a core team of enthusiastic, dedicated volunteers, each of whom has responsibility for a specific area in the setting up of the event.

We meet every 6 – 8 weeks in London to discuss progress and share ideas. The professionalism of the team is highly regarded by the local authority, residents and all the organisations it deals with.

The increasing success of the event means we are looking for new team members to join in the fun of running this colourful spectacle every year. You don’t need previous experience, you can be a student or a pensioner, we just need a few hours of your time every month - and three days in May. If you are interested in any of the following roles or would like more information please contact our Chairman: Jerry Sanders Tel: 01283 716 158 Mobile: 07970 835 523 Email: jerry.sanders@waterways.org.uk Administration Co-ordinator Assistant Commercial Manager Assistant Publicity & Social Media Manager Assistant Site and Services Manager Sponsorship Manager

43 Volunteers are also needed to assist during the three days of the event so, if you think you can spare a few hours between 5th and 7th May, please go to the IWA website where the volunteer registration form can be downloaded or completed on-line: https://www.waterways.org.uk/events_festivals/canalway_cavalcade/volunteer There are still a few vacancies for volunteers in the work camp too, but you should be prepared to work for a minimum of 2 days. Food and refreshments will be available for a small fee but no overnight accommodation can be provided. Please refer to the volunteer registration form for more details: https://www.waterways.org.uk/events_festivals/canalway_cavalcade/volunteer We are also seeking candidates to chair the Committee from 2019 - if this is a role which interests you please contact Christine Smith, telephone 01386 642 577, mobile 07774 890 750 or email christine.smith@waterways.org.uk

Forthcoming Events South London Branch Meetings are held on the second 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 the talks and presentations is free to all, members or non-members, although we do ask that you donate a minimum of £2 per person to offset room hire charges and speakers’ expenses, thank you. The programme for meetings is as follows: Wed 14th Mar: Annual General Meeting For more information please contact the Social Secretary: Shea Richardson Tel: 07803 904803 or email: shea.richardson@homecall.co.uk

Towpath Walks Group Sun 18th Mar, 2.30pm: Walk, Grand Union Canal: Little Venice & Paddington Green, meet Paddington (Bakerloo, Praed St. exit) Sun 1st Apr, 2.30pm: Walk, Regent’s Canal: Mile End to Limehouse, meet Mile End Sat 14th Apr, 10.45am: Walk, Regent’s Canal: King’s Cross Granary Square to Camden, meet King’s Cross (taxi rank) Sun 15th Apr, 2.30pm: Walk, Regents Canal: Little Venice to Camden, meet Warwick Avenue Sun 29th Apr, 2.30pm: Walk, Regent’s Canal: Kings Cross, Hitchcock’s Hackney, meet Kings Cross (taxi rank) Tue 1st May, 2.30pm: Walk, Grand Union Canal: Uxbridge to Denham, meet Uxbridge (High Street exit)

44 Sun 6th May, 2.30pm: Walk, Regent’s Canal: R. Tyburn, Regent’s Park to Little Venice, meet Baker St. (Baker St. North/Lord’s exit) Sun 20th May, 2.30pm: Walk, Grand Union Canal: Uxbridge to Denham, meet Uxbridge (High Street exit) Sun 3rd Jun, 2.30pm: Walk, Limehouse, Thames to Docklands, meet Westferry (DLR) (by Cycle Hire Point) Sat 16th Jun, 10.45am: Walk, Regents Canal: Little Venice to Camden, meet Warwick Avenue Sun 17th Jun, 2.30pm: Walk, Grand Surrey Canal: Royal Navy Victualling Yard to Greenland Dock, meet Surrey Quays Sun 1st Jul, 2.30pm: Walk, Regent’s Canal: Islington to Mile End, meet Angel Sat 14th Jul, 10.45am: Walk, Regent’s Canal: King’s Cross, Granary Square to Camden, meet King’s Cross (taxi rank) Sun 15th Jul, 2.30pm: Walk, Regents Canal: Little Venice to Camden, meet Warwick Avenue Sat 4th Aug, 2.30pm: Walk, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park & Bow Back Rivers, meet Stratford by “Newham London” sign Sun 5th Aug, 2.30pm: Walk, Regent’s Canal: King’s Cross, Granary Square to Camden, meet King’s Cross (taxi rank) Sun 19th Aug, 2.30pm: Walk, Grand Union Canal: Little Venice & Paddington Green, meet Paddington (Bakerloo, Praed St. exit) Sun 2nd Sep, 2.30pm: Walk, Limehouse, Thames to Docklands, meet Westferry (DLR) (by Cycle Hire Point) Sun 16th Sep, 2.30pm: Walk, Regent’s Canal: Mile End to Limehouse, meet Mile End 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 – which most outsiders don’t realise is here! It is also a good way of recruiting new members to IWA. No experience? No problem, we’ll brief you so, if you’d like to give this a try, please contact Roger Wilkinson.

The Walks programme continues on alternate Sundays for the rest of the season – see next Cargoes for further details.

For more information about Walks (Normal charge: £10.00, Concessions & Student rate: £8.00) please contact Roger Wilkinson, telephone: 07896 801930 or email: rogerw9796@yahoo.co.uk

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Mikron Theatre Group Get Well Soon (GWS) 70 years of the NHS! All is not well at St Monica’s Hospital.

They’re on life support, facing bugs, bedblockers and a battle to save A and E. 70 years ago, Nye Bevan gave us free healthcare for all.

Can his dream survive the demands and pressures of the 21st century?

Can Simon find a cure for his family troubles?

Can Nurse Danuta save the day with her Polish pastries and proverbs?

With tunes, transfusions and titters, join Mikron as we make a surgical strike on the state of our NHS.

Revolting Women (RW) The fight for the vote Why did it take so insufferably long for women to get the vote?

London. 1918.

Revolting Women tells the Suffrage story through the eyes of a less well known Pankhurst, Sylvia, who fought for the vote alongside working women in the East End. Sylvia meets Lettie and they push together to Parliament, to bend the ear of the Cabinet.

A story of absolute commitment or dangerous obsession?

Full of political satire, song and more suffrage societies than you can shake a stick at, Revolting Women unravels a contentious and momentous movement in history!

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The Inland Waterways Association IWA South East Region Chair: Verna Smith 63 Avondale, Ash Vale, Aldershot, Hants GU12 5NE Tel: 07986 2444479 Email: verna.smith@waterways.org.uk

IWA Guildford & Reading Branch Committee Chair: Gareth Jones Hill House Farm, Misbrooks Green Road, Beare Green, Dorking RH5 4QQ Tel: 07850 819 071 Email: gareth@hillhouse.farm Secretary: Jenny Bartholomew Tel: 01306 882927 Email: jen.bartholomew@talktalk.net Acting Treasurer & R. Wey: Mike Lewis Basingstoke & R. Thames: Gareth Jones

K & A, WACT & Planning:-Verna Smith

IWA Kent & East Sussex Branch Committee Tel: 07768 132703

Chair: Les Etheridge

Email: les.etheridge@waterways.org.uk

Secretary, Sussex Ouse & Cargoes Contact: Roy Sutton 79, St Leonards Park, East Grinstead, West Sussex RH19 1EG Tel: 01342 317569 Email: RoyDavidSutton@Yahoo.co.uk Treasurer & Royal Military Canal: Peter Wilkinson Membership Secretary: Anne Etheridge Social Secretary: Sue Schwieso Waterways Reps R. Medway: Michael Marsh R. Stour: Roy Newing Thames & Medway: Bernard Snell Dartford & Crayford: Vacant

R. Adur: Brendan Whelan Northfleet Harbour: Graeme Rooney R. Rother: Vacant Faversham & Swale: Dale Henson

IWA Oxfordshire Branch Committee Chair: Steve Good 1 The Bungalows, Ham Lane, Aston, Bampton, Oxon OX18 2DE Tel: 07825 296357 E-mail steve@stevegood.info Secretary: Brian Saunders Tintern Cottage, County View, Clifton, Banbury, Oxon OX15 0QA Tel: 01869 337227 Email: brisaunders33@gmail.com Treasurer: Ann Yeatman Webmaster: Robin Williams

Cargoes co-ordinator & Jericho: Terry Yeatman Non Committee Responsibilities

Thames RUG 3: Sue & David Cooper

Next issue: Summer 2018 Copy date: 29th April 2018

Maidenhead Waterways

Enlarged York Stream channel near Town Moor, with the flow now restored

Narrow completed channel alongside Hines Meadow car park, upstream (N) of Chapel Arches

The new large water basin (S) and restored Chapel Arches Bridge New footbridge now in place alongside the Library and the amphitheatre

The enlarged York Stream channel downstream towards Brunel’s GWR tunnels

The completed downstream channel below Stafferton Way, with still low water levels pending the weir uplift

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