Sou'Wester Winter 2019

Sou’Wester The Bascule Bridge at Bridgwater Docks in Somerset Courtesy of Mike Slade

January - April 2019 / Issue 180 IWA South West and South Wales Region www.waterways.org.uk/ southwest

South West and South Wales Region Committees South West & South Wales Region Committee: Chairman: Vacant Members: *Geoff Brown Hon. Secretary: *Ray Alexander *Geoff Harman Sou’Wester Editor: *Joyce Potts *Peter Kelly Navigation Committee *Tony Pugh Representative: *Steve Warwicker Avon & Wiltshire Branch Committee: Chairman: *Geoff Brown Member: *Steve Warwicker Hon. Secretary: *Tim Wheeldon Hon. Treasurer: *David Chalmers Joint Events Officers: *Geoff Harman / *Geoff Brown 100 Club Administrator & Publicity: *Vivienne Hook Salisbury Group: *Ron & Myra Glover Jon Van de Geer Gloucestershire & Herefordshire Branch Committee: Chairman: Vacant Members: Vacant Vice Chairman: Vacant Publicity Officer: Vacant Secretary: Vacant Treasurer: Vacant South Wales Branch Committee: Chairman: *Tony Pugh Hon. Secretary: Vacant Treasurer: Henry Brown Minutes Secretary: Vacant Membership Officer: *Tony Pugh Publicity Officer: Vacant Volunteer Co-ordinator Vacant West Country Branch Committee: Chairman: *Ray Alexander Hon. Secretary: *Sally Hillman Hon. Treasurer & Events: *Pat Robinson Volunteer Co-ordinator: *Mike Slade

Members: Mike Synan Chris JL Yewlett

Members: Julian Gibson Chris Jewell *Peter Kelly

*Contact details for these appear inside the back cover.

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Region Report IWA Annual General Meeting The Region Committee was pleased to see so many IWA members visit the South West and South Wales Region for the National AGM at Stonehouse at the end of September.

We are aware that many IWA members made a weekend or even longer of their visit to the area, which with the historic Docks at Gloucester, the Rivers Severn and Wye and two major restorations in progress (the Cotswold Canals and the Herefordshire & Gloucestershire Canal) has many attractions for members.

An appeal was made at the conclusion of the AGM for members to help form a new committee for our Gloucestershire & Herefordshire Branch and this resulted in a number of members coming forward, following which a meeting has been held and tentative plans agreed for a new committee to be formed at the Annual General Meeting of the branch, which is due to be held on 21st March 2019.

The Region Committee

Notices FORMAL NOTICE OF BRANCH AGMs Each branch will be holding its AGM in 2019 Details of the exact time, venue, date and any events around the AGM can be found on pages 4 and 5.

Agenda (which is common to all branches) 1 Apologies for absence 2 Minutes of 2018 AGM 3 Report of Chair 4 Treasurer’s report and accounts 5 Election of Committee 6 Any other business (previously notified to Chair before the meeting).

Immediately after the AGM, the new Committee will meet to appoint its Officers.

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Avon & Wilts Branch: Thursday, 14th March, 2019

7.30pm

The AGM will be followed by a presentation by Vivienne Hook on “Watery Wanderings or how I cured the drought!”

Venue: The Community Room, Wickhouse Close, Saltford, BS31 3BZ Access from the main Bath Road (A4) where there are regular buses to Bristol and Bath, is via Norman Road, and turn left in front of Saltford Hall.

Further information from Geoff Harman on 0117 9623812 or email harman@lampeter99.plus.com

Gloucestershire & Herefordshire Branch: Thursday, 21st March, 2019

7.30pm

The venue for the AGM and the post-AGM activities have yet to be arranged and will be notified to Gloucestershire & Herefordshire branch members when they become available.

South Wales Branch: Saturday, 11th May, 2019

1pm

The AGM will be held at the National Waterfront Museum, Oystermouth Road, Swansea, SA1 3RD There will also be a South Wales Canal and Inland Waterways Exhibition, Conference and Workshops sponsored by the South Wales branch of the IWA - 11am - 4pm There will be displays, talks and presentations in the Ocean Rooms 4

West Country Branch: Wednesday, 6th March, 2019 7.30pm At Exeter Canoe Club, 62 Haven Road, Exeter, EX2 8DP Doors open from 7pm when teas/coffees will be available.

The AGM will be followed by a talk on the Stover Canal and its origins by Roger Harding and John Ellis from The Stover Trust.

All members and friends are welcome to attend. available in Michael Browning Way.

Ample car parking

Further information available from: Chairman: Ray Alexander - rayalexander01@gmail.com Secretary: Sally Hillman - sallyhillman@hotmail.co.uk

SOUTH WEST AND SOUTH WALES REGION APPOINTMENTS Do you think you might have some time to spare to join the Region committee? There are two available roles.

The Region team is looking for a new Chairman to oversee region activities, to represent the region at various events and to liaise with other IWA region chairmen, officers and trustees.

There is also a gap for a new Hon. Secretary. The current post holder has been in situ for five years and having taken on a branch chairman role feels it’s time to step aside from this role and make way for someone new.

The committee meets four times a year in Bristol and in addition to providing a forum for communication between the branches, it oversees the publication of Sou’Wester (the region magazine) and awards the prestigious Brian Sheppard Award annually.

To find out more, please contact Ray Alexander at rayalexander01@gmail.com 5

News Navigation Committee Update Steve Warwicker, NavCom Chairman Navcom now meets mainly by Video conference to allow ease of access by more representatives.

The last meeting was on 17th November when several issues were discussed, not all of which are relevant to the South West region.

The Silver Propeller Challenge where new proposed locations were identified and West Country Branch have resubmitted their list and we await Paul Strudwick’s decision on which ones can be added. No suggestions currently were forthcoming from other areas in the region but I believe these could still be considered.

A discussion took place on a Vision for London, this is trying to address the overcrowding of mooring issues in the London area. Further I plan to copy the minutes of Navcom to the Regional team members in case there are detailed points they wish to respond to.

Part of the meeting is monitoring the ongoing key relationships that the IWA is involved in and we now have improved ones with both British Canoeing and RYA/British Marine, the latter in particular has been beneficial in the recent ruling from the EU on RED Diesel. We are working closely with the RYA on this and how it will be interpreted in the UK as it clearly has a potential for significant impact on boaters costs.

As part of our ongoing activities to talk to senior managers of major navigation authorities we have an ongoing dialogue with Jon Horsfall of CRT (Canal and River Trust). This meeting covered topics such as how the CRT disposes of assets that are no longer viable to its needs and this lead to a healthy discussion of preventing problems such as has happened at Blowers Green in the Midlands (A building was proposed to be sold but on protest from IWA this was rescinded).

We also managed to talk to the Fisheries manager of CRT and start a useful dialogue with him should we have concerns in the future.

The Gap tracker which collects information on where boaters’ facilities are below standard has gained useful information and will be shared with the relevant navigation authorities. One aspect highlighted by CRT was the cost 6

of vandalism and that anything that could be done to reduce this would release more money for maintaining the system. Useful suggestion were made and any other ideas are welcomed. I have suggested that we should consider using more continual video recording from boats (like with cars) to perhaps help with deterring issues.

Our CEO has had meetings at senior level with EA (Environment Agency) and this is an ongoing process.

In the new year I hope to have a meeting with Sustrans, who are based in Bristol, about possible opportunities for working together to improve towpaths for both walking and cycling and of course minimise impacts to boaters.

There has, as an aside, been discussions on steel lock gates for the Kennet and Avon where it has been established that CRT are looking at possible designs.

During the last month I have taken over representation on behalf of the IWA for the River Wye Navigation Advisory group, previously attended by Roger Holmes on our behalf. Whilst most of the detail is not relevant to the IWA the mechanism by which this group operates is of interest. It is funded by EA but chaired by an independent chairperson and has representatives of all the parties interested in making the River Wye area a success. It includes representatives from boating and canoeing organisations and businesses as well as local and parish councillors – a useful model which we should consider elsewhere in the Region.

AVON AND WILTS 100 CLUB DRAW Vivienne Hook The result of the Avon and Wilts 100 Club Winter Draw is too late for this issue and will be in the next issue of Sou’wester. Meanwhile it has been agreed that the Charity to be supported by the Club in 2019 will be the Underfall Yard Trust in Bristol Docks.

Members of the Trust rescued the slipway and buildings from dereliction in the 1990s, with support from Bristol City Council, the Heritage Lottery Fund, the South West Regional Development Authority and volunteers.

Following the restoration, the yard was set up as a working boatyard with tenants, including a number of start-up small enterprises. Underfall Yard is now home to many different maritime-related businesses as well as several clubs and organisations focussed around water activities. The Yard is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10am.

Anyone wanting to join the 100 Club should contact Vivienne Hook: email: vivienne.m.hook@blueyonder.co.uk or write to me at 48 Broadfield Road, Bristol BS4 2UQ. One share will cost £6 and gives you a chance in each of the three draws during the year. You can have as many shares as you want.

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Clear Access, Clear Waters British Canoeing Launches Access and Environment Charter Taken from the British Canoeing website “The Charter has been created as a result of collaboration and discussion between British Canoeing, its members, Members of Parliament and other stakeholders such as IWA, National Trust and Wildlife, and Countryside Link.

At a time where our waterways face greater threats than ever before - from pollution, invasive non-native species and climatic pressures - the public must be fully engaged in protecting them. Clear waters can only be achieved with clear access for all.

British Canoeing will champion the case for fair, shared sustainable open access on and along inland waterways to be confirmed in law. Continue to act to protect and improve the health of our rivers, working to protect, preserve and enhance the natural environment. Commit to inspire more people to be active outdoors; connecting people with their environment and promoting the benefits on mental and physical well-being Inactivity is causing all sorts of problems for young people – diabetes, obesity and other health issues – many of which can be solved by exercise and being outdoors.

Access to the environment, specifically our waterways, has the potential to create a deep and lasting connection with nature, encouraging pro-environmental behaviours. But just 4% of English waterways are uncontested leaving tens of thousands of miles of river open to dispute and disagreement.

Few of us live near the coast; however, the majority of the population live near a river, canal or lake. It is not right that these spaces are often ‘off limits’ or closed off from the public and more must be done to enable greater access to waterways.

Everyone has a responsibility to take reasonable measures to help safeguard the environment for both the present and future generations. Through its pledges, British Canoeing is committing to leading the paddling community towards a clearer position on access and a brighter future for the environment.

English waterways are a fantastic resource that should be available for everyone to enjoy responsibly, without prejudice or exclusion.

If future generations are to respect the natural environment and be engaged in its protection, then there must be clarity over rights of access.

Fair, shared, sustainable open access, it’s not too much to ask for is it?”

The Inland Waterways Association believes that canoes and other small unpowered craft are a great and affordable way to get afloat, and offer excellent opportunities to introduce more people, including children and young people, to inland waterways and the great outdoors. We welcome the 8

charter published by British Canoeing and believe that if Government would introduce modern, comprehensive, legislation for England, as has been done in Scotland and is currently being considered in Wales, then that would bring welcome clarity to the law.

THE COAL CANAL WAY New Walks Booklet from the Somersetshire Coal Canal Society Derrick Hunt The Coal Canal Way is a series of walks which, when taken together, cover the entire length of the Northern Branch of the disused Somersetshire Coal Canal. Although about half of the canal has disappeared in the 120 years since it closed, there are still many sections which are still walkable because public rights of way have developed along the old towpath. When studied carefully, the maps of the area show that these isolated sections can easily be linked together by nearby footpaths to form a complete walk from end to end. Not only that, but most of these linking footpaths deviate only slightly from the original course of the canal and in many cases are within sight of it.

Having created the concept of a route along the entire canal, the next logical step was to produce a booklet as an aid to walkers and anyone else who wanted to explore the canal; thus the "Coal Canal Way" was born.

Because some people may only want to explore a small section of the canal and return to their starting point, the route is divided up into a series of walks, each of which is short enough not to overtax the casual walker. The individual short walks can be linked to those on adjacent pages to form a longer walk for those who prefer greater distances or a day out along the entire length of the canal.

The walks are described in both directions so that a starting point can be chosen at whichever end of the section is most convenient - and there is little chance of getting lost on the return journey.

Each page includes a map at an appropriate scale for that section and a description of the interesting things to be seen on the walk, with a summary of their history. We are currently working towards way-marking the whole route, for which we shall need the co-operation of the Local Authority.

The "Coal Canal Way" will shortly be on sale at bookshops and other outlets along the canal, it is also viewable on the Somersetshire Coal Canal Website: <http://www.coalcanal.org> and for a while will be available as a free download.

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A trip on the Exeter Canal Sue Weston

I’d driven over the Exeter Ship Canal so many times. An intriguing and a very beautiful resource, right on our doorstep.

I have been trying to organise a trip for a few years and had all but given up because the ‘powers that be’ actively discouraged it.

Having successfully cruised the River Parrett, I met up with Ray Alexander of the IWA who put me in touch with John Monks – Friends of the Exeter Ship Canal. He advised that the Canal Office was now more accommodating and gave me the necessary contacts.

We wanted to travel up one day, stay in Exeter overnight and then come back down on the following day. The time constraints were quite difficult to get around as we had to lock in and out of Turf Lock, at the entrance to the canal in Exmouth, on a neap tide, in the morning, with enough time to be at the Countess Wear Road Bridge before lunchtime rush hour. Furthermore, because we had to be accompanied by canal staff to operate the locks and bridges, the two days had to be weekdays. There are only about two possibilities per month and typically, most were not convenient for myself or the two friends who also wanted to come.

On Sunday, 30th September, we set out from Brixham, joined up with my friends in Smugglers Blues 2 at Thatcher’s Rock, Torquay and blasted across to Exmouth. We’d decided to err on the side of caution, in case of rough seas in the morning and spent the night in Exmouth Marina. We were due at Turf Lock at 10 am and, as this is very much tide dependent, we couldn’t afford to be late.

We awoke to a beautiful sunny day and navigated the River Exe to Turf Lock where we met our other good friend on Seagull 3.

At the appointed time, the canal staff were there to greet us, the lock gates opened, in we went and the rising waters carried us up to the level of the canal. Such a sight to behold - the serene and peaceful canal stretching away in front of us.

On through a swing bridge, opened for us by the canal staff, under the M5 (it’s amazing how quiet it is underneath) and then Double Locks, a huge lock built to take two ships side by side.

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The Countess Wear Road Bridge was opened just for us. The northern lane is a vertical lifting bridge whilst the southern roadway is a swing bridge. A marvel of engineering. As we went through we could see the traffic stacked up as far as the eye could see. We did feel just a little bit guilty.

We saw swans, boats and ships, some derelict, along the way and some kayakers who were surprised to see boats on the canal! The River Exe was beside us most of the way, 10 metres below.

Two more swing bridges and into Exeter Basin. Lunch was an all-day breakfast at one of the cafes on the quay then a short bus ride into the City Centre.

After our evening meal at a quayside restaurant we retired to the boats for drinks and a chat, watched over by the alternating colours of the 25 metre Haven Banks tower.

The next morning we were all up bright and early to catch the Countess Wear bridge again and the tide in Exmouth.

The return was a reverse of the journey up and we all felt blessed that we were able to do it all over again.

Out through Turf Lock, down the windy Exe and a final blast home, across the sea to Brixham and Torquay.

Apparently, nothing can be perfect and my only gripes were the lack of facilities but until more people use the canal, it is probably not worth the cost and it would have been nice to be able to stop along the way for tea and a toasted teacake. We have visited, by road, the Turf Lock Hotel and the Pub at Double Locks and both were within a few yards but unattainable because of the strict timings and it would have been rude to keep the canal men waiting, although, on reflection we could have invited them to join us.

The cost is not prohibitive if you can find a few of you to go. £103.00 for the journey up and back plus £20.00 per boat for Turf Lock and plus £20.00 overnight in Exeter basin. There were only 3 of us and it worked out at £67.00 each.

When you realise what you get – three men who accompanied us for two half days and operated the locks and swing bridges, the opening of the Countess Wear road bridge, twice (that in itself was worth the money). The canal staff were so helpful and friendly and positively added to our enjoyment of the trip.

I would definitely recommend making this trip – there are a few hoops to jump through but well worth the effort.

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Leptospirosis (Weil’s Disease) A safety alert has been issued by British Canoeing as a paddler in the East Midlands has been diagnosed with Weil’s Disease on 17th November. It’s carried in rats pee and other animals and can affect bank side clearance activities without sensible precautions.

It is fairly rare but can be nasty and fatal in the extreme as an Olympic rower died from it a couple of years ago.

This is an infection that can be caught from animals. It is rare in the UK. Weil's Disease, also known as Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that can be caught from animals, or through contact with infected soil or water. It is normally believed to be spread by rat urine, but it can also be transmitted by cat, fox and rabbit urine.

Transmission is usually through an open wound or abrasion but can also be caused by ingestion of contaminated water.

It begins as a mild illness, which can be easily cured if treated early enough.

Symptoms are:

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lethargy, diarrhoea, headaches, vomiting and muscle pain.

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Later symptoms are jaundice, swollen feet or hands and chest pain. If left untreated Weil’s disease can be fatal.

Symptoms can occur between 3 and 21 days from the time of infection.

Prevention measures against water borne infection are largely common sense.

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DO:

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Cover all cuts and abrasions with waterproof plasters if participating in waterways activities

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Wash your hands before eating, drinking or smoking, particularly if you have touched waterside vegetation, ropes, equipment or pulled items from the water.

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Always wear footwear at waterside locations to avoid cutting the feet

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Avoid capsize or rolling practice in suspected waters

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Where possible shower soon after the activity

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See a doctor if you feel ill with flu-like symptoms, and tell them you have been near water.

IN ADDITION, DON’T:-

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Handle dead animals with unprotected hands; wherever possible use a shovel or other tool.

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Drink any water from waterways or lakes, even if it looks clean.

If you can’t speak to your GP and don’t know what to do next call 111.

Photos: Rat - Courtesy of Mike Potts - IWA Gloucestershire & Herefordshire Branch member ————————————————————————————

Photo: Brecon Canal Basin Courtesy of Joyce Potts, Editor 13

Branch Reports IWA Avon & Wiltshire Branch Salisbury Group Ron & Myra Glover At our October meeting: We welcomed Peter Oates, talking about our local canal from Southampton to Salisbury.

Most members know of its existence but knew little about the history or details of the route. This canal was one of many considered, and in some cases constructed, during the early 18th century. In 1795 the act of parliament was obtained to start the canal. There was a lot of initial enthusiasm for this project but due to high costs and constructional problems this canal was never completed. Problems occurred at the start in Southampton due to inferior build quality and poor constructional design. It was a very short lived canal that never actually reached Salisbury but the final point of construction was at Whaddon where a tunnel was started but never completed. Parts of the canal were used for navigation but by 1808 all canal traffic had ceased and land owners were refilling parts of the canal and reclaiming their land.

Peter then took us on a pictorial journey from Southampton to Salisbury showing us the route of the canal, including the parts that are still in water gained from the Rivers Test and Dunn. In Southampton the canal route is now built over but it was interesting to be shown pictures of streets, parks and buildings where the canal used to be. Many of us have walked in these areas totally unaware of the previous existence of this waterway. The route of the canal heads north through Romsey, and then follows a rural path to Salisbury.

The navigation passes through places like Dunbridge, Lockerley, West Dean, Grimstead and on to Whaddon & Alderbury. We saw the one remaining lock chamber that is still identifiable at Lockerley and the remaining original bridge that passes over the canal near East Grimstead. Peter concluded by telling us about the final destination in Salisbury, the terminus being near the Dust Bowl pub, but this section was of course never built.

This was a fascinating presentation showing how this canal has now almost disappeared from the landscape. Hopefully Peter’s talk inspired the audience to search out and walk parts of the Salisbury and Southampton Canal.

At our November meeting: Ron & Myra Glover together with their friend Dave Thomas gave us an account of their experiences on board the steam puffer “Vic 32”. They boarded the ship at Crinan Harbour, travelled east along the Crinan Canal and then around some of the Western Isles of Scotland. The talk started by explaining the origins of the steam puffers, their original function and how they were put to use in World War 2.

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This particular trip started with a six hour journey along the Crinan Canal, through the 14 locks to Ardishaig. The canal designed by John Rennie was built between 1794 and 1801 as a short cut for boats travelling between Glasgow and the West. It is surprising how quiet the vessel is when travelling.

The remainder of the trip was around the Western Isles. Firstly out into Loch Fyne with the first stop at Tarbert. As this was the first trip of the season a compass swinger was taken on board at Tarbert to adjust the ship’s compass.

This was followed by a journey north up the West Kyle of Bute stopping at the small town of Tighnabruaich. Continuing along the Western Kyles of Bute the next stop was at Rothesay. Here the three travellers donned walking boots in order to explore the rugged coast at the southern point of the Isle of Bute.

Surprisingly we had a “not to be missed” visit around the original Victorian toilets in the town of Rothesay.

During the talk the audience was introduced to the crew and the tasks that each carried out. The guests on board Vic 32 were encouraged to join in with steering, navigating, stoking the boiler, mooring up and casting off. At one point Ron and Myra were left alone in the wheel house in charge of the navigation and steering.

The audience were also given a guided tour around the ship with details of life on board. One highlight was to see and hear the steam powered record player playing good ol’ rock n roll.

The audience were entertained not only by pictures but by video clips and music. The evening culminated with everyone singing the song “The Crinan Canal For Me”.

At our December meeting: The Salisbury Group entered a team into the annual quiz organised by Southampton Canal Society. First place went to Southampton Canal Society, Salisbury’s team of Colin and Rosemary Davis, Eric Lewis and Myra Glover came a close second with Guildford and Reading IWA in third place. The evening ended with a pleasant American supper.”

Photo: Steam powered record actually playing “See you later alligator”!! player courtesy of Dave Thomas

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IWA West Country Branch Ray Alexander, Branch Chairman Bridgwater & Taunton Canal. The annual CRT User Group meeting for the Bridgwater & Taunton Canal took place on 8th November, hosted by the recently appointed CRT Region Director for Wales and the South West, Richard Thomas, together with a number of his management colleagues. This was well attended and commenced with presentations by CRT which included an explanation of their move into “Wellbeing” and some of their plans for the canal for the immediate future. A lively discussion followed concerning the many problems of the canal. Whilst not all the points made were critical it became apparent that there is genuine desire amongst the users of the canal to see more done by CRT to address the problems and to thereby make the canal much more usable than it has been of late. The Branch looks forward to the action plan that has been promised and will continue to work positively with CRT, but at the same time will hold it to account when appropriate.

Bridgwater Docks: The Branch continues to promote the regeneration of Bridgwater Docks including the Bascule Bridge and has recently presented its aspirations for their future to the South West Heritage Trust and to a packed meeting of the Somerset Industrial Archaeological Society. A desk-top analysis of 28 known UK Bascule Bridges has been substantially completed, which shows that the Bridgwater Bascule Bridge is the oldest bascule bridge in the UK, having opened in 1841; it is one of 8 double-leaf bascule bridges in the UK and one of 6 grade II listed bascule bridges in England. It was listed in June 1973 prior to any other bascule bridges being listed and preceded the listing of Tower Bridge (the only Grade I bascule bridge) by three months.

Our booklet “Our Vision for the Grade II listed Bascule Bridge” can be obtained by e-mailing myself at rayalexander01@gmail.com.

Exeter Ship Canal: Exeter City Council has now appointed consultants to (i) identify the council-owned assets associated with the Exeter Ship Canal and (ii) produce a strategy for the future of the Canal. This work will be undertaken by Arcadis and JLL, who submitted a joint bid. An initial public meeting has taken place for interested parties and this will be followed by a separate meeting for the West Country Branch and the Friends of Exeter Ship Canal.

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Funding: The Branch is currently fundraising to meet the costs of its volunteer work party activities and a number of grant applications are in hand, including to the Hinkley Point C community funds. To date we have received grants totalling ÂŁ550 from West Monkton Parish Council and Cheddon Fitzpaine Parish Council in recognition of the work that the volunteers undertake on the Bridgwater & Taunton Canal within their localities. The Branch is very grateful to the Parish Councils for these grants.

IWA Avon & Wiltshire Branch Geoff Brown, Branch Chairman Our branch has been the scene of a couple of unfortunate incidents involving boats used by live-aboards. In one incident a boat was sunk after a stag party passed by at speed and in an erratic manner, and in the second incident a boat was destroyed by fire. We hope that thorough investigations will take place to see where safety improvements can be made. In this connection, Tim Wheeldon has had contact with the new CRT manager for the area, Richard Thomas and by the time you read this I am also hoping to have met him.

I have attended my first meeting of the Bristol Harbour group, but have yet to form any firm opinions as to its usefulness and the River Avon Users Group is still not functioning, but I am trying to see if there is a way forward for it.

The major item of interest is on the Wilts & Berks canal and I am pleased to report that on 1st December there was a party at the Peterborough Arms pub at Dauntsey Lock, which was purchased by the canal trust several years ago and has since been slowly restored by volunteers. The party was for stakeholders and the volunteers who have worked there, myself included, and was a very successful event. It officially opened to the public on the 2nd December. We hope that IWA members will support this enterprise by visiting and using this facility. I believe it will be closed on Mondays, but please check beforehand to avoid disappointment.

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IWA South Wales Branch Report Tony Pugh, Branch Chairman On behalf of the Committee and Branch, I have attended MBACT (Monmouthshire, Brecon & Abergavenny Canals Trust) Committee Meetings, the IWA AGM held near Stroud, Gloucester at the end of September and also the Swansea Bay Inland Waterways Partnership Meeting held on 14th November at the Quays, Baglan.

As a Committee we have held several Email Meetings and hope to hold a Formal Meeting and Tour of the Fourteen Locks Canal Centre in December.

The South Wales Branch AGM is to be held at the Swansea Waterfront Museum SA1 3AD at 1pm on Saturday 11th May 2019 as part of the South Wales Canal & Inland Waterways Exhibition, Conference and Workshops which the Branch will once again sponsor.

It is another opportunity to show the general public what is being achieved with the restoration of the canals in South Wales with the co-operation and participation of national and local government.

There will be displays, talks and presentations in the Ocean Rooms from 11am through to 4pm. With the AGM at 1pm, if you are a Member of the South Wales Branch, you are invited to put your name forward to join the Committee.

The Branch meets formally twice a year and on other occasions we have E-mail meetings as situations arise. Your input would not be time consuming but rewarding and appreciated by all who strive to restore our canals.

The IWA Branch covers many valleys in South Wales, each with their own unique Canals and support Groups, many are listed below, all will be invited to participate on the 11th May. If you know of any person or organisation who you think should be invited, let us know.

For up to date information on the local South Wales Canal Societyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s activities: The Fourteen Locks Canal Centre http://fourteenlocks.mbact.org.uk/ The Monmouthshire, Brecon & Abergavenny Canals Trust http://www.mbact.org.uk The Neath & Tennant Canals Trust http://www.neath-tennantcanals.org.uk/ The Swansea Canal Society http://www.swanseacanalsociety.com 18

IWA Gloucestershire & Herefordshire Branch Region Committee There is no branch report at this time.

Forthcoming Events IWA WEST COUNTRY BRANCH - New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day Walk Starts 11am at The Globe Inn For a second year running IWA West Country Branch will meet for a New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day Walk along a stretch of the Grand Western Canal at Sampford Peverell in Devon. This is not far from the M5 at junction 27 and just a mile from Tiverton Parkway station.

We will start at The Globe Inn, Sampford Peverell, EX16 7BJ at 11am and this time will walk in a north-easterly direction towards Burlescombe. Robert Hodgson, Chairman of the Friends of the Grand Western Canal, has agreed to lead the walk, which will total approximately 5 miles. The towpath is wide and in reasonable condition but walkers should wear suitable footwear and clothing for the occasion.

The Canal Room at the Globe Inn has been reserved for those who wish to have lunch following the walk and we have been requested to place orders for lunch prior to the start of the walk.

If you drive to Sampford Peverell please note that the entrance to the car park at the Globe Inn is quite narrow. Please park at the far end of the car park, where there are steps up to the towpath. If you intend to travel by train and let us know by the previous day, we will meet the 10.29am arrival from Bristol and Taunton, also the 10.37am arrival from Plymouth, Totnes, Newton Abbott and Exeter.

All are welcome.

Ray Alexander On behalf of the West Country Branch Committee rayalexander01@gmail.com

07786 176875 19

IWA Avon & Wiltshire Branch Salisbury Group Programme Venue: The Green Dragon, Old Road, Alderbury, Salisbury, SP5 3AR 7.30pm Thursday, 17th January, 2019 Patrick Moss, Chairman of the “Somerset Coal Canal”, will be telling us about the need for, and the design and construction of this canal from its conception to its completion. He will tell us about the building of the unique structures and many of the problems that occurred in the planning and construction. He will also update us on how the restoration continues.

7.30pm Thursday, 21st February, 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.

7.30pm Thursday, 21ST March John Pomfrett’s talk on “The Middle Danube and its Connecting Waterways” 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. He shows us the way through four capital cities, past many castles and 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.

There will be no meetings in April or May 7pm Thursday, 20th June Boules and BBQ at the Green Dragon.

There will be no meetings in July, August or September 7.30pm Thursday, 17th October London’s Lost Route To the Sea. The aim of the Wey & Arun Canal Trust is to achieve the restoration of the navigable link between the rivers Wey and Arun and so recreate the direct link between London and the South Coast. A speaker from the Trust will inform us about the history, original function and restoration of this navigation.

7.30pm Thursday, 21st November Exploring the South of France by Boat. Jon Van de Geer takes us on a journey from Sete along the Canal du Rhone a Sete and along the Petit Rhone to Arles on board the hotel boat “Anne-Marie”. He will also take us on an excursion to Carcasonne and a trip along the Canal du Midi.

All enquiries to Ron and Myra Glover - contact details can be found on page 23. Or Jon Van de Geer - 01722 412841 20

IWA Avon & Wiltshire Branch Programme Venue (unless otherwise stated): The Community Room, Wickhouse Close, Saltford, BS31 3BZ Access from the main Bath Road, where there are regular bus services from both Bristol and Bath, is via Norman Road. The Room is close to the Saltford Hall, where we have met before; turn left in front of the Hall.

12.30pm Sunday, 27th January, 2019 Annual informal Sunday lunch Venue: The Swan, 1 Church St, Bradford-on-Avon, BA15 1LN There is very little parking at the hotel and the pay-and-display car park at the station (BA15 1DQ) where parking time is unlimited, is recommended. This is only a short walk from the hotel. Alternatively, come by train - there are services from the Bristol and Bath direction as well as from Westbury and Salisbury.

Menus are available on The Swan website or from Geoff Harman. Bookings and menu choices to Geoff by 20th January please.

7.30pm Thursday, 14th February “Fresh and Foul - The Work of Wessex Water” - Matthew Wheeldon 2.30pm Tursday, 14th March Branch AGM - see page 4 for details 2 - 4pm Saturday, 15th June Boat trip from Langport on the upper River Parrett aboard the “Duchess of Cocklemoor”. Takes 12 passengers only so book early - strictly first come first served. Full details later.

All enquiries to Geoff Harman - contact details can be found on page 23.

IWA Gloucestershire and Herefordshire Branch Meetings Venue: No events at present 21

Waterways in the IWA South West and South WalesRegion Â

Avon & Wilts Branch Rivers Avon & Severn: Tidal navigation that is the responsibility of the Bristol Haven Conservancy, downstream of the second Severn crossing Avon Navigation: Hanham to Avonmouth, including River Avon & Bristol Docks Kennet & Avon Canal: Hanham Lock to Froxfield Bridge North Wilts Canal Somersetshire Coal Canal Wilts & Berks Canal: Kennet & Avon Canal to County Boundary 1m West of Shrivenham Gloucestershire and Herefordshire Branch Coombe Hill Canal Gloucester & Sharpness Canal Herefordshire & Gloucestershire Canal Leominster Canal Lydney Canal River Severn: from Mythe Bridge, Tewkesbury to a point on the tidal navigation which is the seaward extent of responsibility of the Gloucester Harbour Trustees, downstream of the Second Severn Crossing Stroudwater Navigation Thames & Severn Canal River Wye: Hay-on-Wye to Severn Estuary South Wales Branch Brecon & Abergavenny Canal Glamorganshire and Aberdare Canals Monmouthshire Canal Neath & Tennant Canals Swansea Canal River Usk River Wye - Hay-on-Wye to source West Country Branch Bridgwater & Taunton Canal Cann Quarry Canal Dorset & Somerset Canal Grand Western Canal Par Canal Somerset Navigations Tavistock Canal Torrington (Lord Rolleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Canal

Bude Canal Chard Canal Exeter Ship Canal Liskeard & Looe Canal River Parrett Stover Canal River Tone Westport Canal 22

Contacts

Ray Alexander southwest@waterways.org.uk Geoff Brown geoff.brown@waterways.org.uk David Chalmers david.chalmers@waterways.org.uk Myra Glover 01722 710322 myra.glover@waterways.org.uk Ron Glover ron.glover@waterways.org.uk Geoff Harman 01179 623812 geoff.harman@waterways.org.uk Sally Hillman sally.hillman@waterways.org.uk

Vivienne Hook vivienne.m.hook@blueyonder.co.uk Peter Kelly westcountry@waterways.org.uk Joyce Potts souwester@waterways.org.uk Tony Pugh tony.pugh@waterways.org.uk Pat Robinson mspatsy.robinson@gmail.com Mike Slade mike.slade@waterways.org.uk Steve Warwicker steve.warwicker@gmail.com Tim Wheeldon 01225 723890 tim.wheeldon@waterways.org.uk

Next Issue of Sou’Wester The next issue of Sou’Wester is due out in May, 2019.

Please send all copy to the Editor at souwester@waterways.org.uk by

Monday, 1st April, 2019 The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of IWA. The Inland Waterways Association (IWA) is a non-profit distribution company limited by guarantee. Registered Office: Island House, Moor Road, Chesham, Bucks, HP5 1WA. Tel. 01494 783453 Registered in England no. 612245. Registered as a Charity no 212343. www.waterways.org.uk 23

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