Cargoes Winter 2018 by The Inland Waterways Association

Winter 2018

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

Editorial Welcome to the Winter edition of Cargoes â&#x20AC;&#x201C; not that it feels like Winter while writing this (except at night)! It is with regret that I have to advise you that Tim Fry has decided to step down from the Cargoes Editorial Team. Tim feels that after more than 10 years of editing Cargoes he needs to concentrate on his other commitments. Thank you, Tim for all your help and advice during the past year, I know you will still help me in the background when I need it. Also, thank you to everyone- contributors and readers - for your great comments about the Autumn edition of Cargoes. It was lovely to receive them. Again, this edition of Cargoes is full of photos and articles supplied by our contributors. There have been several Canal and River Days: The River Wey, Oxford and Banbury all being within our area and also individual societies have held their own special events. I hope you get a flavour of them while reading. Chris Jones - Cargoes Editor

From the Region Chairman After a glorious but very dry summer many of our waterways are still experiencing low water levels. The Basingstoke Canal was particularly badly hit, with the Mytchett pound being closed to power boats for the first time in many years. The BCA has been very active in managing the water levels but sometimes there just is not enough to go around. On the plus side the autumn colours are splendid. The Oxfordshire branch has been kept busy running boat trips at both the Oxford and Banbury Canal Events. These events were well-supported by the visiting public despite the appalling weather at Banbury, where it only stopped raining after the decision had been taken to end the event early. The inaugural raft race on the Basingstoke was a great success, being won by a team from the Basingstoke Canal Authority. Judging by the packed towpath this event, which was the brainchild of local councillor David Stewart, will become an annual event at Odiham. The IWA is keen to promote links with other waterway-related groups at both national and local levels and I have attended a couple of local region meetings of the RYA [The Royal Yachting Association], which has many affiliated boat clubs along the Thames. It is clear that we have much in common. The local RYA region has launched a paper on the future of the historic Medway, which I have asked IWAKES to comment on. I can now confirm that the next IWA Waterways Festival will be at Waltham Abbey in 2019. There is potential for our region to encourage boaters going to the festival to plan to visit our local waterways whilst in the area. Let us hope that next year brings just the right amount of water to cruise, without spending every day in waterproofs - so overnight rain! Happy Christmas Verna Smith

Branch Annual General Meetings Notice is hereby given that the Annual General Meetings of the Kent & East Sussex, Oxfordshire and Guildford and Reading Branches of the Inland Waterways Association will be held as follows: The Kent & East Sussex Branch AGM will take place at 7.30pm for 8pm on Wednesday 20th February 2019 at Christ Church United Reform Church, High Street, Tonbridge, Kent, TN9 1SG The Oxfordshire Branch AGM will take place at 7.45pm on Wednesday 13th March 2019 at Begbroke Village Hall, 3 Begbroke Lane, Begbroke, Kidlington, Oxon. OX5 1RN The Guildford & Reading Branch AGM will take place at 7.30pm on Monday 1st April 2019 at National Trust’s premises, Dapdune Wharf, Wharf Road, Guildford, Surrey, GU1 4RR. The Agenda for the branch meetings will be based on the standard format set out in IWA Byelaws as follows:

Agenda 1

Apologies for Absence

Approval (following amendments if necessary) of the Minutes of the Branch AGM held the previous year

Matters arising from the Minutes (and not under other Agenda items)

Branch Chairman’s Report

Branch Treasurer’s Report and Accounts

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

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

Cover Picture: atDay Banbury Canal Day Cover Picture:Dreamweaver Banbury Canal

Photo: Steve Good

Diary of Meetings & Events Sat 1st & Sun 2nd Dec, 10.00am, Wilts & Berks CS: Santa Trips (see page 40) Sun 2nd Dec, 2.30pm, Towpath Walks Group: The Regent's Canal: Little Venice to Camden (see page 42) Thu 6th Dec, 7.30pm, Southampton Canal Society: Inter-Society Waterway’s Quiz (see page 24) Sat 8th & Sun 9th Dec, 10.00am, Wilts & Berks CS: Santa Trips (see page 40) Sun 9th Dec 11:00am, 12:00 noon, 2:00pm, WACT: Santa Cruises (see page 25) Wed, 12th Dec, 7.30pm, IWA South London Branch: Christmas Social (see page 41) Wed 12th Dec, 7.30 for 8.00pm, IWAKES: Historic Waterway Films by Les Etheridge (see page 33) Thu 13th Dec, 7.00pm, Salisbury Group: Christmas Dinner

(see page 7)

Fri 14th Dec 7.30pm, WACT: Santa Cruise for the Grown Ups!

(see page 25)

Sat 15th & Sun 16th Dec, 10.00am, Wilts & Berks CS: Santa Trips (see page 40) Sat 15th & Sun 16th Dec, 10.00am, 12.00 noon & 2.00pm K&A (Newbury Branch): Santa Trips on the Kennet & Avon (see page 14) Sun 16th Dec, 2.30pm, Towpath Walks Group: The Regent's Canal: King's Cross, Granary Square to St. Pancras (see page 42) Wed 19th Dec, 8.00pm, Basingstoke CS: David Linsell: “Power from Poo” (see page 11) Fri 21st Sat 22nd & Sun 23rd Dec 11:00am, 12:00 noon, & 2:00pm, WACT: Santa Cruises (see page 25) Fri 21st, Sat 22nd & Sun 23rd Dec, K&A (Newbury Branch): Santa Trips on the Kennet & Avon (see page 14) Wed 26th Dec, 11.00am, 12.15pm, 2.15pm, WACT: Boxing Day Trips (see page 25) Thu 27th Dec, 2.30pm, Towpath Walks Group: Grand Union Canal: Little Venice, Paddington Green Paddington (see page 42) Jan 2019, IWA South London: New Year Dinner: tba

(see page 41)

Tue 1st Jan, 2.30pm, Towpath Walks Group: Regent’s Canal: Little Venice to Camden (see page 42) Tue 1st Jan, 11.00am, 12.15pm, 2.15pm, WACT: New Year’s Day Cruises (see page 25)

5 Thu 3rd Jan 7.45pm: Southampton Canal Society: Members photographic evening (see page 24) Sun 6th Jan, 2.30pm, Towpath Walks Group: Regent’s Canal: King’s Cross, Granary Square to Camden (see page 42) Wed 9th Jan, 10.30am, IWA G&R Branch: Walk from Bower’s Lock to the New Inn, Send. (see page 8) Tue 15th Jan, 7.45pm, K&A (Reading Branch): Tim Wale – “Tutts Clump Cider” (see page 14) Wed 16th Jan, 8.00pm, Basingstoke CS: Pete Starling: “By Barge to Blighty (see page 11) Thu 17th Jan, 7.30pm, Salisbury Group: Patrick Moss: “Somerset Coal Canal (see page 7) Sun 20th Jan, 2.30pm, Towpath Walks Group: Regent’s Canal: Mile End to Limehouse (see page 42) Thu 24th Jan, 7.30 for 8.00pm, IWAKES: “RNLI - It’s not all at sea” by Colin Brown of RNLI (see page 33) Sun 3rd Feb, 2.30pm, Towpath Walks Group: Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park & Bow Back Rivers (see page 42) Thu 7th Feb, 7.45pm, Southampton Canal Society: Nik Knight “Bats Superheroes of the Night” (see page 24) Sat 9th Feb 10.45am, Towpath Walks Group: Regent's Canal: Little Venice to Camden (see page 42) Wed 14th Feb, 7.30pm, IWA South London Branch: A talk on Narrow Boat Raymond: the past year of celebrations (see page 41) Sun 17th Feb, 2.30pm, Towpath Walks Group: Grand Union Canal: Little Venice & Paddington Green to Paddington (see page 42) Tue 19th Feb, 7.45pm, K&A (Reading Branch): Nancy Campbell: “Canal Laureate 2018/19” (see page 14) Wed 20th Feb, 8.00pm, Basingstoke CS: Malcolm Head: “Archaeological Treasures of the Thames” (see page 11) Wed 20th Feb, 7.30 for 8.00pm, IWAKES: AGM followed by “Antarctica - an amazing Continent” by Mike Marsh (see page 33) Thu 21st Feb 7.30pm, Salisbury Group: A Member from the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust (see page 7) March (Date to be decided), K&A (Reading Branch) Annual Lunch (see page 15) Sat 2nd Mar, K&A (Reading Branch): R•E•S•C•U•E tba

(see page 15)

6 Sun 3rd Mar, 2.30pm, Towpath Walks Group: Regent’s Canal: Islington to Mile End (see page 42) Thu 7th Mar 7.45pm, Southampton Canal Society: tba Wed

13th

Mar: IWA South London Branch AGM

Wed

13th

Mar 7.30pm: IWA Oxfordshire AGM

(see page 24) (see page 41) (see pages 3& 36)

17th

Sun Mar, 2.30pm, Towpath Walks Group: Regent’s Canal: Little Venice to Camden (see page 42) Tue 19th Mar, 7.45, K&A (Reading Branch): Branch A.G.M. followed by a Speaker (see page 15) Wed 20th Mar, 8.00pm, Basingstoke CS: David Rouse: “200 Years of The Thames and Medway Canal”. (see page 11) Thu 21st Mar, 7.30pm, Salisbury Group: John Pomfrett: “The Middle Danube & its Connecting Waterways” (see page 7) Sat 23rd Mar 10.45am, Towpath Walks Group: Regent's Canal: King's Cross, Granary Square to Camden (see page 42) Mon 1st Apr 7.30pm IWA G&R: AGM

(see pages 3 & 8)

Apr 7.45pm, Southampton Canal Society: Chris Witts “My life on the Thu Severn” (see page 24) 4th

Sat 6th Apr, K&A (Crofton): Opening date for 2019

(see page 15)

7th

Sun Apr, 2.30pm, Towpath Walks Group: Grand Surrey Canal, Royal Navy Victualling Yard, to Greenland Dock (see page 42) Tue 16th Apr, K&A (Reading Branch): Speaker tba

(see page 15)

Wed 17th Apr, 8.00pm, Basingstoke CS: William Sargent: “Marine Policing Unit” (see page 11) Sat 20th to Mon 22nd Apr, K&A (Crofton): Easter Steaming Weekend (see page 15) Sun 21st Apr, 2.30pm, Towpath Walks Group: Regents Canal: Kings Cross to Hitchcock’s Hackney) (see page 42) Sat 4th to Mon 6th May. K&A (Crofton): Early May Bank Holiday Steaming (see page 15) Sun 5th May, 2.30pm, Towpath Walks Group: R. Tyburn to Little Venice (see page 43) Tue 21st May, K&A (Reading Branch): Joint meeting with IWA

(see page 15)

Sat 25th to Mon 27th May. K&A (Crofton): Late May Bank Holiday Steaming (see page 15)

Salisbury Group Programme of Events Thurs 6th Dec: Waterways quiz organised by Southampton Canal Society at Chilworth Village Hall. Thurs 13th Dec: Christmas Dinner at The Green Dragon Alderbury, 7.00pm Thurs 17th Jan: Patrick Moss is the Chairman of the “Somerset Coal Canal.” In this presentation he will be telling us about the need for, and the design & construction of this canal from its conception to its completion. Patrick will tell us about the building of the unique structures and many of the problems that 0ccurred in the planning & construction. He will update us on how the restoration continues. Thurs 21st Feb: A member of the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust will bring us up to date with the restoration of this canal which links the Kennet & Avon Canal at Semington to the River Thames at Abingdon. Thurs 21st Mar: “The Middle Danube & its Connecting Waterways.” This talk takes us down the Danube for over 600 miles from Vienna through several countries before ending with the passage through the spectacular Iron Gate Gorge into Romania and Bulgaria. John Pomfrett shows us the way through four capital cities, past many castles & fortresses and some spectacular scenery while sharing the river with boats ranging from canoes to river cruise ships and 14,000 tonne barge tows. He will also show us diversions to look at the Danube’s navigable tributaries and extensive canal systems. 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 or 07768 622966, email glover.3@btinternet.com, myra.glover@waterways.org.uk or Jon Van de Geer on 01722 412841.

Guildford & Reading Branch Branch Chairman The past 3 months have been relatively quiet. We have attended a number of festivals and thanks are due to Ben Scott and the sales team. In terms of our waterways there is little to report. The transfer of EA waterways to CRT is not going to happen in the short term and the transfer of the Basingstoke Canal to CRT may or may not happen. We should hear the final decision later in the year.

8 On the social side both the Fish and Chip trip on Chichester Canal and the walk from New Haw to Pyrford on the River Wey went well. We have the Southampton Canal Society Quiz on Thursday 6th December and a further walk on the River Wey on Wednesday 9th January 2019, from Bower’s Lock to the New Inn at Send, near Woking. I have had a very pleasant long weekend on the Thames with my New Zealand cousins which is reported elsewhere. The latest moves by EA to increase revenue and reduce costs are very noticeable although, particularly below Reading to Teddington, there remains much activity. May I wish you all a very happy Christmas period and I hope you can get planning for next year’s waterway activities. Gareth Jones

Sales & Publicity Stand The Sales Team attended the Wey River Festival at Dapdune Wharf where the Sales Table and Lock Game were both very successful. Two of the team also helped on the stand at the Banbury Canal Day which was run by IWA Oxfordshire. Both were wet days although members of the public were supportive. Banbury was our last event for 2018 and we should start next year with the Beale Park Boat and Outdoor Show. Further details will be available in the Spring edition of Cargoes. If you would like to put your name down to help next year please contact let Ben Scott, on 07484 223691, or any of the Cargoes team. Our email address is iwacargoes@outlook.com The Sales Team

Forthcoming Events Wed 9th Jan, 10.30am: Walk from Bower’s Lock to The New Inn, Send. Meet at Bower’s Lock at 10.30am. Mon 1st Apr, 7.30pm Branch AGM, National Trust’s premises, Dapdune Wharf, Wharf Road, Guildford, Surrey, GU1 4RR

Bits on the Basingstoke A decision on the Basingstoke Canal transfer to CRT may be made before the year end. That is not to say it will happen but at least it may continue to be a possibility. IWA is taking a passive role merely supporting the Basingstoke Canal

9 Society in their endeavours. At a recent boaters’ meeting we learnt that much is planned. The Deepcut Flight has been closed due to the need to replace gates after they were struck hard by a boat. The work has now been done but as yet there is insufficient water to allow navigation. It is good that the County Councils continue to spend money, but much does need to be done. The next JMC* meeting in November will be interesting (*Joint Management Committee). Gareth Jones

Basingstoke Canal Society Chairman’s Report The canal has experienced mixed fortunes this summer. Together with other parts of the canal network, water shortages led to sections of canal being closed for considerable periods. The damage caused to a lock gate at Deepcut added to the problems and, at the time of writing in the second week of October, the canal remains closed to through traffic. Thankfully the Canal Society’s trip boats have

remained in operation although the John Pinkerton has suffered from the continuing problems at Swan Cutting in North Warnborough where navigation has not been possible in recent weeks. The Kitty operation in Woking had a very successful season and the Canal Society is currently looking at the possibility of acquiring a new hybrid or electrically powered boat. The County Councils have continued to provide welcome support to the canal in, what we must accept, are difficult circumstances. In February, Hampshire County Council agreed

10 to provide £1.5M in capital contributions over the next 3 years. This includes some funding for preparatory work on the repairs to Swan Cutting. In Surrey, the Council has agreed to provide £150,000 each year for the next 2 years. In addition to this, Woking Borough Council has funded £96,000 towards the cost of the new wharf in Woking town centre and the Canal Society has topped this up with a grant of £12,000. In late August the Canal Society, in partnership with the Basingstoke Canal Authority, held a very successful hog roast at the Canal Centre to celebrate the recent award to the Society of the Queens Award for Voluntary Service and the achievement of another very productive year of volunteering on the canal. This

event was attended by 200 members and supporters who enjoyed a convivial evening meeting old friends and listening to some excellent music. It is pleasing to report that the application has now been made for planning permission to build an amenity block at the Canal Centre to improve the facilities for the camp site. In September the Canal Society held a very well supported raft race at Colt Hill, Odiham which attracted 7 entries. The race was won by a team from the BCA who completed the course from the lift bridge at North Warnborough to Colt Hill in 1 hour 20 minutes – a considerable achievement. It is hope that this will become an annual event. Philip Riley wincombecottage2@gmail.com Stop Press: It has been announced that the management of the Basingstoke Canal will not be transferred to the CRT at this time.

Chobham Social Meetings The meetings are usually held on the third Wednesday of the month at the Parish Pavilion, Recreation Ground, Station Road, Chobham, near 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. Wed 19th Dec: David Linsell: “Power from Poo”. This talk will introduce Thames Water with an overview of the company; it’s geographic coverage, customers and handling volumes of clean and waste water, plus tonnes of dry solid material for disposal. It will describe the sewage treatment with historical development, basic elements in sewage work, sludge processing, anaerobic digestion, pasteurisation and thermal hydrolysis. Finally, power generation in a combined heat and power plant plus future developments will also be discussed. Wed 16th Jan: Pete Starling: “By Barge to Blighty”, The role of inland waterways and the evacuation of casualties in the First World War. During the first world war with the number of casualties being on unprecedented scales, evacuation to the base hospitals at the coast became a major problem. This talk will highlight the role of the inland waterways as a means of casualty evacuation. Wed 20th Feb: Malcolm Head: “Archaeological Treasures of the Thames”. This show and tell discussion will feature a number of artefacts that have been recovered from the River Thames during dredging operations conducted over a number of years. Of varying ages, it's remarkable that the objects, some of which are very fragile, have survived mechanical dredging and are available to enjoy today, many years after they were lost or discarded. Wed 20th Mar: David Rouse: “200 Years of The Thames and Medway Canal”. The Thames and Medway Canal, originally built in the early 1800s, now running from Gravesend to Higham in North West Kent has an interesting military, engineering and social history. Unfortunately, the canal was never the commercial success hoped for. This talk traces the timeline from initial fundraising, construction challenges, the impact of railway fever, and eventual demise of the canal. Looking forward, the canal could be developed into a green safe water corridor, supporting fishing, informal boating and other activities. Wed 17th Apr: William Sargent: “Marine Policing Unit”. This talk will discuss how the Marine Policing Unit (MPU) is responsible for policing the 47 miles of the River Thames within the Met area (Dartford to Hampton Court) as well as providing a specialist response to over 250 miles of canals and waterways, lakes and reservoirs and other bodies of water in London. Further information at http://www.basingstoke-canal.org.uk or email chobham.talks@basingstoke-canal.org.uk. To receive free reminder emails sent about a week prior to each talk, contact Mark Coxhead at mark@coxhead.org.uk

Trips aboard the John Pinkerton II Public Trips in Hampshire aboard the John Pinkerton II restart at Easter 2019, see: www.basingstoke-canal.org.uk/jp/public-trips or Trip from Woking aboard the Society’s trip boat Kitty also restart at Easter 2019 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

Focus on Accessible Boating Association The Accessible Boating Association, usually referred to as Accessible Boating or ABA, is a registered charity that was initiated in 1985 by Mildred Stocks, then Chairman of Hart District Council, who wanted to enable people who couldn’t use existing canal boats to enjoy cruises on the Basingstoke Canal. The charity was called Boats for the Handicapped to start with but changed its name in 2001. Madam Butterfly is a comfortable 7-berth cruising boat, equipped with wheelchair lifts, fore and aft, and a hospital bed, ideal for families or groups with little or no experience of canal boating Dawn is a 12-person day boat with a wheelchair lift, toilet and a gas hob and is available for trips manned by ABA volunteers or self-drive hire. Dawn is used for scheduled trips and for publicity and fundraising activities such as Father Christmas trips and running trips from Old Thatch when open for the National Gardens Scheme.

13 Both boats are based in Odiham at Galleon Marine’s boatyard with trips operating from Colt Hill Wharf from April to October. Over the winter months maintenance of both boats is undertaken by volunteers calling on professional help when necessary. For more details see the website www.accessibleboating.org.uk. New volunteers are always welcome; speak to one of our volunteers or contact our Chairman, John Ranson at chairman@accessibleboating.org.uk

Kennet & Avon Canal News Newbury Branch Things have quietened down in Newbury now that our season of public trips on trip boat Jubilee have finished. We had a busy Autumn. Jubilee travelled to Crofton for the 50th Anniversary Steaming at the end of September, giving 120 passengers a trip on the Kennet and Avon Canal over the weekend. This is always special because it is the only time of the year that a trip boat runs in this area. We finished Jubilee’s season at the end of October in spooky fashion with half term ‘Creepy Cruises’ for the children and a fangtastic time was had by all! Tickets for our Santa trips are selling well, and passengers seem to be booking much earlier than in the past. This makes life a lot easier for the ‘Elves’ who buy and wrap all the presents. We take a very personal approach on Jubilee and each child has an individually chosen present to suit their age and sex, carefully wrapped and labelled with the child’s name to be given out by Santa. Last year we had around 240 children, so the elves are very busy! Our Santa trips last approximately 1 hour and the children enjoy a Christmas story, sing Christmas songs accompanied by tambourines, and spend plenty of time with Santa after receiving their present – all while cruising along the canal and through a lock! It is a real Christmas party on the water! The adults aren’t forgotten either with mince pies and mulled wine to enjoy. See jubilee.katrust.org.uk for more details of these trips.

14 Looking ahead to 2019, we will begin our usual Jubilee crew recruitment campaign in January. If you are interested in volunteering on the boat for 2019 we would love to hear from you. To find out more see jubilee.katrust.org.uk/help-us/ Julie Dean

Forthcoming Events

Santa Trip We’ll be cruising to ‘Greenham Land’ to find Santa! Children enjoy a Christmas story, singing, and plenty of time with Santa during the boat trip which lasts approximately 1 hour. The ticket price of £9 includes a good quality present from Santa for children; and the choice of mulled wine or hot drink and a mince pie for adults. Advance booking is essential and tickets will not be available on the day. There are no concessions. Please dress warmly for this trip and don’t forget your Christmas hat! Cost £9 (no concessions) and trips are at 10am, 12 noon and 2pm on Saturday 15th, Sunday 16th, Friday 21st, Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd December 2018. Please note that in the event of severe weather the boat may not be able to leave the wharf and an alternative programme will apply. For further details contact Julie Dean juliedean@btinternet.com

Reading Branch The Eastern End K & A Volunteers (an independent Community Waterway Adoption group) is authorised by C&RT to carry out maintenance work on certain parts of the K&A. on the 2nd Wednesday and last Saturday of each month. If you would like to join a Working Party, email Mick Savill for dates and details and to check the next one will be taking place. (micksavill@icloud.com)

Forthcoming Events Tue 15th Jan: ‘Tutts Clump Cider’. Speaker Tim Wale Tue 19th Feb: ‘Canal Laureate 2018/19’. Speaker Nancy Campbell Sat 2nd Mar: R•E•S•C•U•E tba

15 Tue 19th Mar: Branch A.G.M. Speaker March (Date to be decided) Branch ANNUAL LUNCH 1200 for 12.30pm Tue 16th Apr: Speaker tba Tues 21st May: Joint meeting with IWA Sat 16th June: Reading WATER FEST July: Branch Outing: Date and venue to be decided The Reading Branch 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). 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, ÂŁ2.50 (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

Crofton is closed for winter maintenance however the pay and display car park at Crofton is still open between 9.00am and 5.00pm each day. Please note there is no access to the site or the canal while we are closed. Access to the canal can be gained by turning left or right on leaving the car park and following the road to either the Crofton Crossing Bridge or Sam Farmer Lock

Forthcoming Events Sat 6th Apr: Opening date for 2019 Sat 20th Apr to Mon 22nd Apr: Easter Steaming weekend Sat 4th May to Mon 6th May: Early May Bank Holiday Steaming Sat 25th May to Mon 27th May: Late May Bank Holiday Steaming Sat 29th Jun & Sun 30th Jun: Crofton steaming weekend Sat 27th Jul & Sun 28th Jul: Crofton steaming weekend Sat

24th Aug to Mon 26th Aug: August Bank Holiday steaming weekend

Sat 28th Sep & Sun 29th Sep: Crofton Steam Gala 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’ The first stages of the York Stream half of Maidenhead’s new town centre waterway ‘Ring’ are now complete, with just the downstream weir needed to fully lift water levels and fill the newly enlarged sections. The weir contract has been tendered by our funding partner RBWM and is expected to get underway in early 2019. In the interim there remain a few obstructions that prevent through navigation of any standard, but we have already seen rowing boats and canoes on the completed stretches of the waterway.

After the disruption of construction, it is pleasing to see the wildlife has returned, with a growing fish population, lots of Mallards, Coots and Moorhens, plus Kingfishers and a Grey Heron, all starting to venture further into the town centre. A family of swans has also settled in the town centre and raised cygnets this year. Bat boxes have been installed along the route and further ecological enhancements are planned once the weir is in place and the water levels are fully lifted. Shanly Group is well underway with Phase 3 of its major Chapel Arches development, which is set around the water. Phase 3 includes a second smaller water basin on the north side of the now restored historic (c1825) road bridge. Hundreds of steel reinforced piles over 20 metres deep are being sunk to support

17 the new wider channel walls, two underground (2-storey deep) car parks, the new café and retail units and some 200 apartments overlooking the restored and enlarged waterway. In the summer MW launched a new short PR video explaining the project, progress to date and the waterway’s key role in the regeneration of Maidenhead town centre. The video can be viewed at … https://youtu.be/K9LqkATGxWc and is introduced by our local MP and PM Theresa May. It seems to run best in Chrome or MS Edge. You can see the overall route maps and follow the project’s progress on MW’s web site www.maidenheadwaterways.org, or through these pages….

River Thames News I have just returned from 5 days on a hire boat on the River Thames. We went from Benson to Penton Hook Marina via Thames Ditton. Fewer and fewer locks these days have lock keepers. At Romney Lock there was a major hold up as EA staff struggled with a lock with limited power. The problem was only solved when the regular lock keeper was summoned to sort matters out. The majority of boaters we saw were hire or trip boats. Higher licence fees are, it seems, driving regulars away. It is a sharp contrast to the situation in Europe where charges are low and traffic at least on some waterways is high, with consequent benefits both social and economic. It was a most enjoyable trip, but it is sad to witness the decline and even sadder to hear that the move to the enlightened CRT is on the back burner. Gareth Jones

Three Week Trip on the River Thames John and I are very lucky in that we have our own 21 ft narrow beam boat called Delphun. She’s a Dolphin boat built on the Norfolk Broads at Catfield. We try to take her home to the Broads once a year in August but the rest of the year she’s kept at Walton On Thames. This year we managed to get a long trip away on her on the River Thames taking in the Beale Park Boat and Outdoor Show and Reading Water Fest Starting at Walton on Thames one afternoon, our first overnight stop was the EA mooring at Runnymede. One of the moorings where you have to contact EA to let them know you’re there, although there was no charge. That night we had a beautiful show of lightning – no rain – just lightning. It was lovely. After that we

18 travelled up to Beale Park, (where John and I were helping on the IWA stand) stopping at Windsor and Reading on the way. The new owners of Lechlade Marina, Ian and Jules Lindsay came onto the stand, so we were able to wish them well with their new venture. When we left Beale Park we slowly made our way up to Lechlade, stopping at Wallingford (shopping), Abingdon (Launderette) and various other moorings on the way. Arriving at Lechlade we decided to moor on the edge of the field near the bridge. That was a mistake. There were about 100 yearling heifers in the field and they liked boats – and they liked eating boats! Having gone to one of the pubs St Johns lock house and Father Thames for a meal we came back to find bits of Statue the boat missing and fastenings on the canvas chewed! We quickly (as fast as you can go at 8 km) decided to move and moored below St Johns Lock for the rest of the night. The next day we started downstream, battling horseflies on the way, to arrive at Reading in time for the Water Fest where again we were helping on the IWA stand. Have you tried to moor at Reading recently? Have you tried shopping at Tesco’s? You’ll be charged £9.50 even if you only want to go shopping for an hour! If it wasn’t for a brilliant Water Fest I would think Reading didn’t want boaters. After Reading we made our way back downstream to Walton on Thames stopping at Thames Court, Shepperton on our last night. We were very surprised to see the Thames Valley Morris Men from Claygate were performing there, a very pleasant evening and good food. On the whole it was a Thames Valley Morris Men lovely trip, there were many more places to moor than we remembered from 9 years ago. The Information Centre in Wallingford was very helpful, even phoning up the Launderette in Abingdon for us to find out where it was and the opening times, and the EA moorings are good (just make sure they are actually EA Wherry and working Windmill opposite Cantley moorings, the signs for some of the on the River Yare chargeable one are very similar). Next trip Norfolk. Chris Jones

River Wey & Godalming Navigations It is hard to believe it is Autumn already â&#x20AC;&#x201C; where has the year gone? As I mentioned at great length in my last article what we had been doing and what works we planned to do later in the year, I wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t spend too much time on that here. Suffice to say we are continuing to deliver what we planned. We have just completed the dewatering and principal engineering inspection of Unstead Meadow Weir. It provided the opportunity to undertake some maintenance to the weir and, while it is in relatively good condition, we await the full report and have begun planning, in a little more detail, for the eventual replacement of the structure. The Maintenance Team are now busy getting ready for the winter stoppages to allow the lock gate changes at Stoke and Coxes and principal engineering inspections to be undertake of both structures. Our dredging project has moved forward although the schedule has moved. While we wished to undertake the dredging works between Worsfold Gates and Papercourt Lock during the Winter the work will now take place in June 2019. A little less convenient from our viewpoint but offering substantial savings on cost which will help fund future phases of the dredging project.

Unstead Meadow Weir Dewater

Our Lengthsmen Team will shortly embark on the Winter cut back along the towpath and perched embankments. This enables us to inspect perched embankments for any signs of leakage which may be caused by burrowing animals. It also entails the removal of tree saplings that would block a towrope between a horse and a horse drawn barge. With rainfall becoming more frequent again it signals the weir keeping commitment that will soon impact on the time Lengthsmen have available for other works.

20 The Lengthsmen Team has also been involved remembering WW1. If you’ve been along the Navigations lately you’ll have seen our tribute to those who fought in the First World War. At each lock is an extract of poetry - some wellknown, others less so – placed next to simple yet evocative images from the period. On some of the bridges we’ve hung wreaths made from rusted barbed wire and decorated with woollen poppies. It’s not intended as a loud shouty display but rather one that has a quiet dignity and asks us for a moment’s reflection. Although the boards and wreaths have only been up for a couple of weeks we have had many, many positive and pleasing comments about them. All the lengthsmen pulled together to develop this project and worked with enthusiasm from the very start - from the point the idea was formed. Its success really is a credit to them. Events at Dapdune Wharf have been numerous and busy. The Wey River Festival was blighted for the first time by very wet weather. Although visitor numbers were down on the previous year I didn’t hear anyone make any complaint. The atmosphere was relaxed and happy and everyone appeared to enjoy themselves despite the wet and cold weather. More of a surprise was the large number of people who turned up at Dapdune Wharf in the evening to see the illuminated boat pageant and I’m told there were also a lot of people on the bridges crossing the Wey in the centre of Guildford. John Gibson, Navigations Manager

Forthcoming Events Boat trips from Dapdune Wharf We have three electric launches, Dapdune Belle, 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

21 Guildford until 1968, 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.

Improvements to Portage Points on the River Wey Email received regarding the Improvements: Good Morning. Seeing the Autumn Cargoes mention of the new canoe portage landing stage at Triggs Lock, paddlers from the Canoe Camping Club used it on Bank Holiday Sunday as seen from the attached image. The club along with Godalming Scouts made a donation to NT for these works and it was pleasing to read the IWA has also assisted the trust for more improvements to portage points and landings. Kind regards Kevin East

A Visit to Cartbridge Basin I first visited Cartbridge Basin near Send on the River Wey back in March when owner, Geoff Cook, held an Open Day to welcome boaters to his new Canal Basin. Over the summer much has changed and now it is fully open with all facilities. It was great to take another look around in the warm September sunshine. The basin is filling up fast. Lots of narrowboats have moved in together with a fair number of cruisers. Given the quiet location, I am not surprised. Walking around the basin, there are already signs of it settling into the surrounding countryside. Areas have been laid to lawn with trees planted which will become a lovely shady area to relax in over time. The car park, which was open ground back in March, now has been laid to gravel, and there is a large building on the edge of the basin offering facilities to moorers, including a

22 dedicated room with washing machine and tumble drier as well as individual personal shower rooms, with washbasin and toilet within the same space. I took a stroll down the main slipway and along the pontoons whilst there. Each mooring space has a dedicated electricity point with water and safety equipment within easy reach. The pontoons do float but are wide with a grippy textured surface, making it a safe place to load your boat, even in wet weather.

As I headed back to my own boat to continue cruising down towards Weybridge, I can see why so many people have taken up the offer to move to Cartbridge Basin. It’s a lovely quiet place in a nice rural location and will only improve as the greenery develops over time. Thanks for the coffee, Geoff. Why not pop in to see him sometime? You will be sure of a friendly welcome. by Melanie Cambridge

Southampton Canal Society At our September meeting the society welcomed Tony Shadick who was presenting a selection of interesting videos. The first of the videos was taken at the society’s recent 50th anniversary outing on the Basingstoke Canal. The video, introduced by Brian Evans, provided memories of the sunny and successful trip on the trip boat the ͞John Pinkerton for more than 40 members and friends enjoying the Hampshire scenery. The end point of the journey was the head of the navigation at King John’s Castle with images of fish in the clear spring water and swans in a close family group. The video provided cooling views of reflective water for the return to Odiham Wharf and was enjoyed by all those present including Paul Herbert who clapped in appreciation of his own speech on the trip which had been recorded for posterity. The second video was taken on the Romsey Canal in 1996 during the IWA Golden Jubilee celebration jigsaw cruise. A paddle along the canal with society members and local dignitaries with four boats including Rub-a-Dub Dub and Frog accompanied by ducks and ducklings. The video provided an enjoyable insight into a scene of gentle English folk at leisure in light rain and wind but with a respectable crowd to support the event.

23 The evening concluded with a couple of videos of local interest detailing the Hockley Viaduct and the Andover to Romsey “Sprat and Winkle” Railway line. Gordon Osborn Alan and Angie’s summer cruise: We set off for the Festival of Water at St Neots from the Engine House Arm on a very pleasant Wednesday evening. We motored through to the Flecknoe moorings for the first night. The first setback proved to be that Angie had left her sleeping bag back on Purton. So, we turned around and went back to Ventnor Farm to collect it. Then on to Braunston where I bought two new batteries and fitted them. I now have battery acid holes in my new SCS anniversary shirt and jeans. Then we went up Braunston Locks, on through the tunnel and down the seven Last/First Lock Northampton Arm locks on the Buckby flight. On the following day, we ended up just short of Gayton Junction for our first time down the Northampton Arm. Here we met up with two other boats and all worked together. We arrived at Northampton Lock on the River Nene late in the afternoon and headed down for the night at Rushmill lock. To the pub for the evening! The next day we went on to Wellingborough for night. We met up with friends on their way back home to the Little Ouse. They had been held up by a breach on the Leeds and Liverpool so ended up going via the tidal Trent. Once onto the Middle Level at Peterborough we made our way to March. From there, there was the run to Salters Lode for the short trip along the tidal Ouse up to Denver Sluice - the second largest Liberty awaiting passage Salters Lode

tidal barrier in the UK. Through Denver, we went on up to the Little Ouse for night. From there we made for Ely for a few hours stop and then onwards. After a couple more stops we arrived at the rally site on Tuesday afternoon. Wednesday saw us set off to Bedford and past Bedford to the end of Navigation at Kempston Mill. This is where the Bedford - Milton Keynes link may start and end one day. Then back to Festival site (to be continued)

Denver Sluice

Angela Rose

Forthcoming Events Thu 6th Dec 7,45pm: Inter Society Waterways Quiz. Questions will be set by the 2017 winners - IWA Salisbury. The evening is hosted by SCS and the traditional American supper will finish off the evening. We welcome other IWA teams to challenge us. Thurs 3rd Jan 7.45pm: Our members photographic evening. Thurs 7th Feb 7.45pm: “Bat Superheroes of the Night” by Nik Knight. Thurs 7th Mar 7.45pm: tba Thurs 4th Apr 7.45pm: “My life on the Severn”, based on the Tanker Trade in the 1960’s and the grain trade in the 1980’s by Chris Witts. 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 Trust makes a splash at slipway ceremony After floods, arctic temperatures and searing heat – it’s finished. The Thriscutt slipway was unveiled in style at a ceremony on 30th September in the presence of Mayor of Waverley, Councillor Denise Le Gal. The build was made possible by a generous donation from the Thriscutt family in memory of their parents, Nancy and Sydney Thriscutt. Son Andrew travelled from Canada to unveil a plaque dedicating the slipway to his father. Among the boats, kayaks and canoes to take to the water to mark event was a stunning blue Amphicar, owned by Mike and Jane Stallwood. About 4,000 of the cars were made in Germany in the 1960s and it can travel up to 70 miles an hour on land, and 7 knots in water. Mayor Le Gal was treated to a trip on the canal in the car, along with Andrew Thriscutt. The slipway has been built to IWA standards and it is hoped to host the IWA National Trailboat Rally at the site in the near future. Gill Davies

Teams join forces for clearance project It was a case of many hands make light work when the Wey & Arun Canal Trust Midweek Working Party and West Sussex County Council Public Rights of Way volunteers joined forces for two days. The groups came together on the 12th and 13th September to spend two days clearing vegetation around Rowner Lock and the public footpath to Loves Bridge in Billingshurst. Their hard work over a mile of countryside now means the footpath is more easily accessible and walkers can better enjoy the stunning views of the canal from the path and bridge. New signposts also help mark the footpath routes. Midweek Working Party organiser Margaret Darvill said the 20 WACT volunteers and 12 WSCC Public Rights of Way volunteers all enjoyed working together. She added: â&#x20AC;&#x153;The area is now much more accessible, and the clearance work shows off the wonderful view of the canal. The initiative was so successful that we hope to make it an annual event.â&#x20AC;? For general information on the work of the Trust, please telephone our Northern Office on 01483 505566, or visit www.weyandarun.co.uk

Forthcoming Events Sun 9th Dec 11:00am, 12:00 noon, 2:00pm: Santa Cruise Children under 12 years can meet Santa and his helpers and receive an early Christmas present. Join in the festive songs as you cruise along the canal! Festive refreshments on board are included in the ticket price. Fri 14th Dec 7.30pm: Santa Cruise for the Grown Ups! Santa tells us that Christmas is not just for children and invites adults to join him on a 90-minute trip along the canal whilst enjoying a festive drink and snacks and listening to, or joining in, seasonal music. He may also bring along a small present for everyone! Fri 21st Sat 22nd & Sun 23rd Dec 11:00am, 12:00 noon, 2:00pm: Santa Cruise Children under 12 years can meet Santa and his helpers and receive an early Christmas present. Join in the festive songs as you cruise along the canal! Festive refreshments on board are included in the ticket price. Wed 26th Dec: Boxing Day Trips, 11.00am, 12.15pm, 2.15pm, Blow away the Christmas Day cobwebs with a 50-minute trip on the canal Tue 1st Jan: New Year's Day Cruises 11.00am, 12.15pm, 2.15pm, Welcome the arrival of 2019 with a 50-minute trip on the canal whilst enjoying some light refreshments. Further details and booking from the Trust Office on 01403 752403. office@weyandarun.co.uk www.weyandarun.co.uk Northern Office Phone: 01483 505566 (Mondays-Thursdays, 8.30am-12.30pm)

Kent & East Sussex Branch IWAKES Chairman’s Piece The River Medway is, in my view, the best maintained navigation run by the Environment Agency (EA). It has benefitted from significant investment in recent years and, unlike other EA navigations, is in a good state. It is most unfortunate that having improved the river EA is now proposing to make it less attractive for boaters by three years of licence fee increases which are well above inflation. IWA has responded strongly to the consultation and it is to be hoped that EA listens and react accordingly. I wish I could be confident this will happen. IWA believes that waterways are for all and cost must not be an issue that stops anybody, but particularly the younger generation, from enjoying the waterways. I hope to see lots of members at our meeting on 24th January when Colin Brown will be presenting “RNLI – It’s not all at sea”. The BBC Two programme “Saving Lives at Sea” has reinforced the bravery and courage of RNLI volunteers and I’m sure this will be a fascinating and informative evening. Les Etheridge – 8th October

Past Events ‘The Caledonian Canal’: Roger Squires On the evening of 27th September nineteen members and friends gathered at Strood Yacht Club to welcome Roger Squires to speak to us about the Caledonian Canal that runs through the Great Glen in Scotland. A walk along any part of the Caledonian Canal gives visitors the opportunity to experience all Scotland has to offer: unspoilt scenery, the famous Scottish hospitality and (if you are lucky) sight of the Lock Ness monster. The Great Glen Way is one of four official long-distance paths in Scotland. At 73 miles the route stretches the length of the Glen, following sections of the canal towpath and forestry tracks through some of the Highland’s most beautiful scenery alongside Lock Ness. The remarkable dramatic eight-lock flight at Banavie, just north of Fort William is little short of breath-taking. Overlooked by Ben Nevis, Neptune’s Staircase is a busy place for travellers from all directions. This amazing piece of engineering raises the canal by 62ft over a quarter-mile of continuous masonry. A perfect place to enjoy gongoozling the boats as they travel up and down the lock flight. Angela Acott ‘IWA Festival of Water’ Over the August Bank Holiday David and Angela Acott travelled to St Neots, on the River Great Ouse, for the ‘IWA Festival of Water’. We set up our tent on the Friday in anticipation of a good weekend; which is what, on the whole, we got. On Saturday we were joined by Ron and Jennifer Watts. The only day when the site had to be closed (temporarily) was the Sunday, when strong winds were expected.

27 These did not materialise, but heavy rain did. It was a flat site, beside the River, with the town very close for supplies if required. A trip boat was running and there were plenty of food and drink outlets. Sunday ended with a short, but very beautiful, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Illuminated Boat Processionâ&#x20AC;?; immediately followed by a super, short firework display. St Neots Town Council sponsored the entertainment throughout the festival and the fireworks display. Angela Acott

Sussex Ouse Restoration Trust The dry summer meant that the ground around Isfield Lock dried out sufficiently to allow SORT to hire in a large digger to remove the ramp which had been constructed in the very early days of the restoration. The ramp had allowed access from the silted-up cut, down into the lock during restoration. The digger removed sandbags, countless half-bricks and 12 railway sleepers as well as earth and the other debris comprising the ramp, with no problem. So, it was then put to work excavating the cut below the lock. About a third of the way through the job, the digger broke down. A major repair was necessary, so it was collected early by the hire company. Rains then came, and work is now halted until the area becomes drier again in late Spring. Hazel Lintott The National Trust has installed a wooden footbridge across the River at Sheffield Park. It has also installed a new rope bridge (pictured) across Iron Gates Lock.

Eastern Rother report from Malcolm Jones Siltation at Bodiam has reduced the depth available for the Bodiam Boating Station trip-boat. Malcolm and BBS have contacted the Environment Agency which has said the matter will be dealt with as and when funding is available. There is now less of an issue as water levels have risen. The north bank at Newenden, opposite BBS, is owned by the Parish Church Council and boats moor against it. It is untidy but proposals to tidy it up are causing some controversy, as the cost would be recovered through increased mooring fees.

River Medway news from Mike Marsh The Environment Agency Consultation on proposed Navigation Charges 2019 to 2021 closed on 30 August. There were 441 responses; of which Thames 159, Anglian 133, Medway 88, CRT 37 & non-specific waterways 24. Response from the Medway was 11% of registered boaters. This was higher than the 2% of Thames boaters who are strongly against the proposed increase. The IWA submitted a detailed national response to the consultation, stating that the increases (10% for the Medway) were too high and rises in line with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) would be justified. It concluded that more financial support from government through Defra is required to retain vibrant waterways alive with boats. Unicomes Lane, Maidstone is the access to several river bank moorings where 36 plots of land were sold to boat owners. The EA has concerns about the security of some of the moorings should severe flood conditions affect the river as happened in 2013. The EA and Maidstone Borough Council are in discussion with the boat owners about developments on the river bank. Allington Lock Facilities, including pump out and showers, have been out of action for a few weeks due to the failure of a discharge pump. A new macerator pump is being fitted and this will be installed very soon and facilities restored. After two EA licence enforcement patrol trips this summer, the Environment Agency has issued over 60 warning notices for boats not displaying a valid licence. Four speed patrols with Kent Police were also carried out; though no formal warnings were issued, which is a good sign. Floating Pennywort is being found on various parts of the non-tidal upper Medway. It is extremely invasive and needs treating though must be treated in the right way as it spreads rapidly. It can grow up to 23 cm a day. If you spot this anywhere, please inform Medway Valley Countryside Partnershipâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s email: medwayvalley@kent.gov.uk After several Anti-Social Behaviour incidents in the summer at Yalding and Hempstead Lock, reports have reduced. Though Maidstone Canoe Club reports that stones were thrown recently by youths at canoes on the river. The police were called, and arrests were made. It is important that any incidents of anti-social behaviour on the river or river bank are reported to the police, so they have a record of these and can respond appropriately.

29 The Boat Safety Scheme has a consultation in process until November 9th on the fitting of Carbon Monoxide (CO) Alarms in private boats. The proposal would be that 4 checks are made at the BSS examination, 1 advisory and 3 requirements covering the fitting, condition and location of alarms. https://www.boatsafetyscheme.org/about-us/co-alarm-consultation/ The Old Boat CafĂŠ, Maidstone, moored on the River between the town centre bridges, has had a successful summer. During the winter it will be moved to its home mooring but will be back in March next year to serve more excellent food and beverages. Do read the details on the link about this historic 1911 former horsedrawn FMC narrowboat called Vienna/Verbena, loving restored by Chris and Keira. https://www.maidstoneriverpark.co.uk/2018/07/the-old-boat-cafe-opens/

Royal Military Canal news from Peter Wilkinson On 16th August 2018 Folkestone and Hythe planning committee met and approved a controversial scheme at Princes Parade, Hythe to develop land adjacent to the South bank of the Royal Military Canal at its Eastern end. This proposal has been under discussion since 2012. The reference for the planning application is Y17/1042/SH. The vote was recorded as 5 for, 4 against, with one abstention.

The plan is in three parts: 1. The construction of a leisure centre to include a swimming pool 2. The diversion of the through road away from the sea front 3. A commercial development including housing, restaurants and hotel Full planning permission has been granted for the leisure centre; the remainder being in outline only. One of the objections to the plans is the impact that the development will have on the setting of the Canal and its status as a scheduled ancient monument. Supporters argue that any harm will be mitigated by the benefits of the new swimming pool, creation of a traffic free sea front and improvement of the former landfill site which is largely overgrown and inaccessible. The District Council is the applicant as well as the planning authority. So, opponents of the plans are calling for the Secretary of State to call in the application for his consideration.

Thames & Medway Canal Association It would seem that in some instances the use of gabions to support a canal bank may have drawbacks. Several years ago, the bank of the Thames and Medway Canal adjacent to a new slipway was constructed using galvanised steel mesh gabions formed into boxes within which are large stones. The box size was 1 x 1 x 2m. The bank was constructed with one gabion being placed edge down with one more on top, this then being backfilled with earth. Thus, providing a long vertical wall two metres high and a metre thick. Unfortunately, the mesh under the water corroded to such an extent as to allow the stones to fall out of the lower gabion giving rise to the upper gabion being unsupported over a number of voids as seen in the photo. The result being that the bank collapsed into the canal.

There are different types of mesh. Some use square mesh as photo above and others use a heavy chicken wire type as ours. Whether the failure was due to water pollution, substandard wire or surface coating is unknown. It should be noted that this only occurred in one area. A similar wall further along the canal constructed at the same time did not appear to suffer but nevertheless, gabions used for this type of bank support should be carefully chosen for type and durability. Dave Parnell LEJ Properties has deposited an ‘EIA Scoping Report’ on their proposals for the Nuralite Site with Gravesham Borough Council. It is available on http://plan.gravesham.gov.uk/online-applications (enter 20180802). The proposed development floor area has dropped to 12012m2. It refers to the Thames & Medway Canal as the ‘Grand Union’.

Kentish Stour news from Roy Newing National Grid has constructed the temporary bridge needed to install new overhead power lines. Future closures will be of only a few hours duration. These will be advertised by site notices with contacts on Channel 8 or 07869 131 354. EA has said that they will no longer be clearing fallen or obstructive trees. It seems likely that this is an economy measure. Roy is trying to arrange a visit by Ian Nunn (EA Operations Manager, Kent & South London) to show him the problem.

Dartford & Crayford Navigation news from Brian Franklin Dartford and Crayford Creek Restoration Trust’s stand at the Dartford Festival won Best Charity Stand at the show. Their team was presented with the award (pictured) by the Mayor of Dartford. Ownership of Dartford Lock following its transfer from the Dartford and Crayford Navigation Commissioners to Thames Water Authority on 17th August 1987 is being investigated. The Commissioners’ records were lodged in Maidstone Library. Dartford Council proposes a new pedestrian route and bridge across the lock to connect to a new school. D&CCRT has said that they prefer a lifting bridge just downstream of the lock, with the lock island then providing a link to a bridge over the weir. The Public Inquiry into Howbury Park (promoted by Roxhill Developments Ltd) started on 19th June 2018. In view of the developers offering the same navigation clearance as the North Kent Railway bridge and in view of their offering a jetty for masted vessels downstream of the bridge IWAKES will make no representations. A proposal for gravel extraction adjacent the Creek and north of Bob Dunn Way is based on historic permissions that the owners are now taking up. The Defra ‘MAGIC’ system shows that this area is not SSSI. On 15th April 2018 IWAKES wrote to Bexley BC Development Control supporting an application (Planning Ref: 18/00344/FUL) by Selwood Ltd for a site alongside Vitbe Basin and asking for a permissive path to give access to boats moored in the basin.

River Adur from Brendan Whelan

The slipway at Emerald Quay was recently rebuilt, on behalf of the EA, as part of the Adur Tidal Walls Scheme. In September the management company for the Emerald Quay complex declared that they would not accept the new construction because of safety issues and access is now blocked. A high up-and-over ramp has been installed rather than flood gates. Flood gates were suggested by the Shoreham Slipways Group and have been installed for other slipways that cross the Tidal Wall. Also, the quality of the work at Emerald Quay is inferior to that provided, by the EA, for purely private slipways. Without Emerald Quay slipway there is nowhere on the Adur where members of the public can practically launch boats.

Faversham and Northfleet Harbour IWA’s Kent and East Sussex Branch is responsible for an unusually wide variety of waterways under various managements. To maintain contact with events on these waterways we appoint volunteer IWA members who are able to visit them and become involved, where appropriate, with the bodies that manage or are restoring them. These ‘Waterway Representatives’ become IWAKES Committee members but are under no obligation to attend Committee meetings. They receive Committee correspondence to stay aware of IWA’s more general issues affecting ‘their’ navigation. A Representative’s role is very much what each wishes to make of it. ‘Light touch’ is the rule. Two waterways in the Branch area presently do not have ‘Representatives’. Faversham Creek has no ‘navigation body’ but does have development and preservation issues. Northfleet Harbour is being restored by the Northfleet Harbour Restoration Trust which is in discussion with the Ebbsfleet developers. If you would be willing to become the IWAKES Representative for either of these waterways then please contact Les Etheridge at les.etheridge@waterways.org.uk.

Future IWAKES and Other Events Thursday 15th November 2018: 7.00 for 7.30pm: Upper Room, Perrymount Methodist Church, Perrymount Road, Haywards Heath. RH16 3DM (near the railway station and 200 yards from Clair Hall): ‘The evolution of a charity trip boat operation’. A talk by several people connected with the Wey & Arun Trip Boats over the past twenty-five years. 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. Thursday 24th January 2019: 7.30 for 8.00pm: Strood Yacht Club, Knight Road, Strood, Kent. ME2 2AH: ‘RNLI – It’s not all at sea’: Colin Brown of the Royal National Lifeboat Institute. Wednesday 20th February 2019: 7.30 for 8.00pm: Christ Church United Reformed Church, High Street, Tonbridge, Kent TN9 1SG: http://www.christchurchtonbridge.com/about/how-to-find-us/ ‘AGM’ followed by ‘Antarctica -An amazing continent’: Mike Marsh. Tea and coffee are available at all IWAKES evening meetings. Venue maps can be found at www.waterways.org.uk/kent/kent_east_sussex

Oxfordshire Branch Branch Chairman This time, for the benefit of our Cargoes readers, I have three things I want to relay to you all on behalf of the Oxfordshire Branch which are mostly achieved in this edition by way of some photos and only a very few words which between them consist of my covering the following topics: 1. The Oxford City Canal Festival in September 2. The Associations AGM 3. The Banbury Canal Day in October. This trio perhaps might be best described by the old film title "The Good, The Bad and The Ugly" insomuch as the Oxford City Canal Festival event went off extremely well - "The Good". The IWA’s AGM (which I gave up an entire Saturday and travelled 100 plus miles to attend) was “The Good” with a sprinkling of the “The Bad”. The location tied in with a presentation launching a new IWA report about the benefits brought by the waterway restorations in progress. We don’t need to wait another 40 years for a canal to be restored before we can see the benefits such as the £115m housing and business developments by the side of the Cotswold canal in Stroud. Some errors in the Association accounts led to certain AGM attendees calling for a deferral of proceedings for the errors to be corrected. This will cost the charity money even though our auditors described the errors as “not material”. The vote was carried, and the AGM has been deferred. My call here is to say, let’s put our individual differences aside and pull together to bring benefit to the waterways. That is what IWA is particularly good at and, as a committed volunteer I hate to see “The Bad” wastes of time of time of this nature. Outrageous! As for the “Ugly” . . . . those were the weather conditions that greeted all of those who attended as volunteers for the annual Banbury Canal Day. The weather was atrocious, cold (8.5◦C Max) constant rain, drizzle and strong wind lasted all day to deliver frozen hands to us all, but especially to those handling wet ropes and/or bridge lifting with “cold steel” windlass all day long, yet who despite all adversity bravely toiled on from 8.30am until 4.00pm in the afternoon. This was voluntary service to the IWA above and beyond the call of duty, by any measure. Words fail me to express gratitude to all concerned. I would like to give a full roll call to praise all those who gave up so much of their time and fortitude to deliver Free Boat Rides to 300 plus amazing people, who despite the weather did turn up to try out boating on the Inland Waterways of the UK for the first time. Taking us up on our offer of free boat trips. The wide eyed, smiling, young kids’ little faces said it all for me, and made it all worthwhile. There clearly isn't room here to list all 30 plus volunteers involved and who gave so much, but I would like to particularly highlight all of the work, worry and numerous meetings attended by Committee Member Robin Williams this year, who

atat my and bravely “stepped up toto the plate” as “IWA Oxfordshire my request, kindly and bravely “stepped up the plate” as “IWA Oxfordshire at myrequest, request,kindly kindly and bravely “stepped up to the plate” as “IWA Oxfordshire request, and bravely “stepped up plate” as “IWA Oxfordshire at kindly and bravely “stepped upto tothe theplate” plate”as as“IWA “IWAOxfordshire Oxfordshire at my my request, kindly kindly and bravely “stepped up to the Lead Coordinator for 2018 Banbury Canal Day”. Lead Coordinator for 2018 Banbury Canal Day”. Lead Coordinator for 2018 Banbury Canal Day”. at myCoordinator request, kindly and bravely “stepped up to the plate” as “IWA Oxfordshire Lead for 2018 Banbury Canal Day”. for 2018 Banbury Canal Day”. LeadWell Coordinator for 2018 Banbury Canal Day”. done Robin, an outstanding performance, Sir. You are to Well done done Robin, Robin, an Banbury outstanding performance, Sir. You You are are to tobe bewarmly warmly Well an outstanding performance, Sir. be warmly Lead Coordinator for 2018 Canal Day”. Well Robin, an performance, Sir. You are totobe be warmly Robin, an outstanding outstanding performance, Sir. You Youare areto bewarmly warmly Well done done an outstanding performance, Sir. congratulated by us all. congratulated by us all. congratulated byRobin, us all. all. an outstanding performance, Sir. You are to be warmly Well done congratulated by us congratulated by us all. That . .. ..us . . .. Many thanks toto all the rest ofof the volunteers! You bring life That said Many thanks all the rest the volunteers! You bring life congratulated by Thatsaid said Many thanks to all the rest of the volunteers! You bring life That said .. .. ... ...all. .. .... Many the volunteers! You bring life Many thanks thanksto toall allthe therest restof ofthe thevolunteers! volunteers! You Youbring bringlife life Thatcommitment!! said Many thanks to all the rest of toto tothe theword word commitment!! That said . . . . . . Many thanks to all the rest of the volunteers! You bring life the word commitment!! to commitment!! to the word commitment!! commitment!! to the word commitment!!

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Banbury Canal Partnership Since the last issue of Cargoes, we have repainted Bakers, Pigeons, Northbrook, and Dashwood locks. We have also carried out more of the neverending vegetation clearance near the locks we have painted, as well as elsewhere. Something a bit different turned up in September when Canal and River Trust asked us if we would like to paint three of their working boats. These would be at their Nells Bridge Yard. As this is only a short trip from where the writer lives we said yes. The work involved the external repaint of the cabin, decks, gunwalesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, dollies, handrails etc. But neither the hull or the internals were included. As I write this one boat is complete and the second boat is 80% complete. The third was at Banbury Canal Day and is also booked for working duties, so may not be able to be painted this year if the weather closes in.

Our working parties take place on the third and fourth Tuesdays each month - venue to be announced, but we have agreed to repaint all the locks. As they were last painted up to three years ago, we feel it is time they experienced our tender loving care again. If you want a day out in the beautiful Oxfordshire 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 Facebook page Brian Saunders BCP/IWA Committee representative

Forthcoming Events Wed 13th Mar, 7.45pm Branch AGM, Begbroke Village Hall, 3, Begbroke Lane, Begbroke, Kidlington, Oxon, OX5 1RN

37 New Book Launched On Saturday 6th October Matt Armitage, proprietor of Tooley’s Boat Yard in the centre of Banbury, launched his new book detailing the yards nearly 240 years of history. The book entitled ‘Forging Ahead’ is a 137-page volume containing black and white and colour pictures on nearly every page, 131 to be exact. Tooley’s Boat Yard commenced in the 1780’s on the reaching of Banbury by the Oxford canal on its way (10 years later) to its connection with the River Thames at Oxford, in 1790. Tooley’s is the oldest surviving working boatyard on the inland waterways system. It is of most interest to the IWA as the yard that fitted out N.B. Cressy at the start of L.T.C (Tom) Rolt’s epic journey described in his book, ‘Narrow Boat’ which led to the formation of the IWA. The book published by Windlass Publishing Ltd can be obtained direct from Tooley’s Boat Yard at a cover price of £11.99. Brian Saunders

Wilts & Berks Canal Gosh it’s that time again! The summer’s gone past and autumn is upon us. I’ve just booked our annual Easter canal cruise for next year (Macclesfield and Caldon…which will count as a rest after an epic there and back in the Midlands last year), and on my mind is not only writing something for Cargoes but revising my WBCT Talk. I had a flurry of talks last month with two in two days and another one coming up in late November. It seems a long time since I travelled down to Surrey to speak to the Surrey and Hants Canal Society. Over the Summer the East Vale branch of the WBCT once again went out and visited a few of our local shows. It’s always good to chat to the general public about restoration plans and it’s amazing the stories you hear! The Sackhouse Museum in Wantage is now closed until Easter which gives us time for a bit of housekeeping. I am doing a special opening for a group of local cub scouts though, as well as for another group in November. If you want to make a visit to the sunny climes of South Oxfordshire (the old Berkshire bit) then please contact me. We’ve been working locally on our new stretch of leased canal. At the moment it’s just gradual hedgerow work and clearance. The structures and major work will come later. Normal maintenance has continued. As ever and as with other volunteer groups we could always do with more help. Over in Swindon the massive work at Wichelstowe undertaken by Swindon Borough Council has continued with the building of a Canalside pub and secondary school. Plans for the Canalside housing are advancing and the canal itself, having

38 been drained and used as a construction road for much of the year, has been lined and is now filling up with water, hopefully ready to re-open early next year. It will be good to see “Dragonfly” cruising once more up to the Quayside outside the Waitrose Store rather than being confined to a smaller pound. The Peterborough Arms, purchased by the WBCT a while back with loans and donations from members, is on the verge of re-opening as a pub. A stalwart team of volunteers have worked very hard to bring the building up to a state where it can be leased. Meantime the Dauntsey Lock Canal Centre takes shape in the land at the back of the Peterborough Arms with a new road access way and new cabins to take the Trust’s office and meeting rooms. In October the East Vale branch of the WBCT hosted this year’s AGM. I was up at the crack of something putting up posters. My lovely team arrived at the village hall in Grove to get the rooms ready. The Old Mill Hall is ideal as it has good car parking and separate spaces on the ground floor to separate out the coffee/tea area and presentations from the main hall area. Various presentations were run twice in the morning/lunchtime about the Studley Grange Project and the Dauntsey Lock Canal Centre and finally the new up and coming project at Pewsham currently in planning. Members were given a breath of fresh air via guided walks along the Grove Lock flight with a minibus providing book ended transport. The AGM itself was, like AGMs usually are, a mix of business followed by a lively open forum. The Trust initiated a more regular series of Open Forums this year, but this was the first in the Eastern end, albeit as part of the AGM. So finally, seasonal greetings to the various IWA branches around the Region, the historical societies and the other Restoration Societies. Best wishes for a successful and enjoyable 2019. Brian Stovold, Vice Chairman, Wilts & Berks Canal Trust

The Mary Archard at Royal Wootton Bassett The Trust held a successful boat weekend, using The Mary Archard at Templars Firs, Royal Wootton Bassett over the weekend of 15th and 16th September. Good weather over the weekend allowed 85 members of the public to experience the stretch of canal at Templars Firs for the first time by boat.

39 The Mary Archard is a “wheelyboat” which allows access for all through a front ramp and is able to work on many stretches on the canal as it is delivered to each section on a trailer. More opportunities for more people to enjoy a boat trip on lovely stretches of the canal - http://www.wbct.org.uk/experience/take-a-boat-trip

Thousands enjoy the Melksham Food & River Festival 2018 This year’s Melksham Food & River Festival was even bigger and better than in previous years. For this, its fourth year, the entire free community festival was spread out over the whole weekend, and with over 70 stalls attending on both days, it seemed like most of the town had decided to come along and join in the fun. Saturday’s Raft Race (generously sponsored again by Foxhanger Boatbuilders) was a great spectacle as brave crews battled against the current with determination on a variety of craft. Chippenham Young Farmers were once again triumphant in both the junior and senior categories, although The Rivermead Mermaids really captured the support of the crowd with their bright pink and blue wigs! Their raft was a novel design using drainpipes and school chairs, and following their very successful debut, they have promised to enter again in 2019. Paul Martin (from BBC’s Flog It) was at the Festival again this year and brought a touch of celebrity to the medal ceremony. The river was busy both days with canoes, Wilderness boats, steam launches and The Mary Archard, but unfortunately, no Damselfly. The engine proved unreliable and so boat trips were reduced to just one boat; a great shame when the weather was so kind, and there were so many potential passengers. Those who did manage a trip were delighted with the experience, and The Mary Archard once again proved what a family friendly boat she is. Sunday saw the traditional chillieating competition, won for the first time by a lady. The huge crowd was entertained by the brave competitors; watching with a pint in hand was definitely preferable to taking part with only a glass of milk to reach for. There were live music and commentary, cooking demonstrations, a funfair, the WOLT climbing wall, the zipwire over the river, face painting and Phil Newbury with his wonderfully patient horse Frankie offering rides to all. So there were

40 plenty of activities to keep young and not so young happy in between trying new foods and drinks. This is the 5th year of involvement for MCC Branch, as the 2014 festival was an all river affair organised by WBCT. This would have been a one-off event, but for the enthusiasm of Melksham’s longstanding Food Festival team to make it a combined community effort from 2015. Since then, MCC Branch has been actively involved in the planning and organisation of the festival, including taking responsibility for the events on the river, and at least 35 WBCT volunteers (including friends from other Branches) were involved in some way over the weekend of September 1st and 2nd. Thank you to all who contributed in any way – it is all a massive amount of work. Many thanks also to those who have been involved all year in helping to organise this brilliant annual event, in particular Paul Lenaerts, Steve Roberts, Ray Dyer and Malcolm Hitchinson. Being a partner has enabled us to raise the profile of the canal in Melksham, be centrally involved in a very important community event, as well as raising funds for the restoration.

Forthcoming Events Our popular Santa trips are running again this year. NOT from Waitrose, but from our landing stage near the bottom of Kingshill in Swindon, SN1 4NQ. The trips will be running on both Saturday and Sunday on weekends from 1st December right up to Christmas... more times including weekday times in the pre-Christmas week will be on this website. Trips start at 10 am. £10 per child and £6 per adult inclusive of presents and a soft drink for the children and a mince pie (kindly donated by Waitrose) and a glass of mulled wine, for the adults. To book, call the boat team on 07401 220076 or preferably e-mail 2santa@wbct.org.uk You can also visit our Information Centre in Theatre Square, Swindon SN1 1QN, open Mon, Fri & Sat 10.00 - 15.00.

South London Branch 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, 12th Dec, 7.30pm, Christmas Social with mulled wine and mince pies Jan 2019: No Social meeting at URCH: Annual Branch New Year Dinner: Date, Venue & time to be advised Wed 14th Feb: Social meeting at URCH: A talk on Narrow Boat Raymond: the past year of celebrations Wed 13th Mar: Branch AGM and social at URCH For more information please contact the Social Secretary: Shea Richardson. Tel: 07803 904803 or email: shea.richardson@waterways.org.uk. For updates and information on all IWA events and branches please go to: www.waterways.org.uk

IWA Canalway Cavalcade 2019 The new team are looking for volunteers to help at IWA Canalway Cavalcade next year – Saturday 4th to Monday 6th May, 2019. If you can help please contact Christine Smith by email or phone and she will tell you everything you need to know: email: christine.smith@waterways.org.uk or telephone: 01386 642577 or mobile: 07774 890750

Mikron Theatre Group While the 2018 season has finished Mikron Theatre Group are planning 2 new shows for 2019. Find out more about them at their website www.mikron.org.uk

Towpath Walks Group Sun 2nd Dec, 2.30pm: Walk, The Regent's Canal: Little Venice to Camden meet Warwick Avenue Sun 16th Dec, 2.30pm: Walk, The Regent's Canal: King's Cross, Granary Square to St. Pancras, meet King’s Cross (taxi rank) Thur 27th Dec, 2.30pm: Walk, Grand Union Canal: Little Venice, Paddington Green, Paddington meet Bakerloo, Praed Street exit Tue 1st Jan, 2.30pm: Walk, Regent’s Canal: Little Venice to Camden, meet Warwick Avenue Sun 6th Jan, 2.30pm: Walk, Regent’s Canal: King’s Cross, Granary Square to Camden, meet King’s Cross (taxi rank) Sun 20th Jan, 2.30pm: Walk, Regent’s Canal: Mile End to Limehouse, meet Mile End Sun 3rd Feb, 2.30pm: Walk, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park & Bow Back Rivers, meet Stratford, by “Newham London” sign Sat 9th Feb 10.45am: Regent's Canal: Little Venice to Camden, meet Warwick Avenue Sun 17th Feb, 2.30m: Walk, Grand Union Canal: Little Venice & Paddington Green to Paddington meet Bakerloo, Praed Street exit Sun 3rd Mar, 2.30pm: Walk, Regent’s Canal: Islington to Mile End, meet The Angel Sun 17th Mar, 2.30pm: Walk, Regent’s Canal: Little Venice to Camden, meet Warwick Avenue Sat 23rd Mar 10.45am: Regent's Canal: King's Cross, Granary Square to Camden, meet King's Cross station (taxi rank) Sun 7th Apr, 2.30pm: Walk, Grand Surrey Canal, Royal Navy Victualling Yard, Greenland Dock meet Surrey Quays Sun 21st Apr, 2.30pm: Walk, Regents Canal: Kings Cross to Hitchcock’s Hackney, meet Kings Cross (taxi rank)

43 Sun 5th May, 2.30pm: Walk, Regent’s Canal: R. Tyburn to Little Venice, meet Baker St (Baker St North/Lords exit) 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. 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

The Inland Waterways Association IWA South East Region Chair: Verna Smith 63 Avondale, Ash Vale, Aldershot, Hants GU12 5NE Tel: 07986 244479 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 819071 Email: gareth@hillhouse.farm

IWA Kent & East Sussex Branch Committee Tel: 07768 132703

Chair: Les Etheridge

Email: les.etheridge@waterways.org.uk

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

Opinions expressed in Cargoes are not necessarily those of IWA. Editor: Chris Jones Next issue: Spring 2019 Copy date: 15th February 2019

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