Towpath Talk August 2025 issue **FREE TO READ**

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Issue 238, August 2025

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URBAN REGENERATION

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Former working boat Pacific moored on the Bridgewater Canal for the annual Lymm Historic Transport Day in June. Pacific is a former Stewarts and Lloyds canal tug built by Yarwoods and launched in 1934. She is now preserved in private ownership. She was among a number of tugs that Stewarts and Lloyds used to tow Birmingham Canal navigation ‘Joey’ boats loaded with coal mined in the Cannock area to the company’s steel tube works at Coombs Wood in the Black Country. PHOTO: COLIN WAREING

Weather brings woes as waterways dry up

By Tim Greenfield

THE DRIEST spring since 1893 and hot, rainless June and July have made some of England’s waterways a no-go for boaters. And there is no end in sight for the water-starved network as the Canal & River Trust warned

boaters to plan ahead to avoid problems.

According to the Met Office, 2025 saw the driest spring for more than 130 years. In addition, some of England’s regions are now officially in drought conditions. Low water levels across the canal and river network mean some vessels

cannot use the waterways and lock usage is being restricted in some areas. Many boaters have reported running aground and having to re-route due to water depth in some areas.

The trust is advising that water availability across some parts of the canal network is under strain with low river flows

and reduced water holdings in the charity’s canal-feeding reservoirs.

Alex Hennessey, national boating manager at Canal & River Trust, said: “The conditions we’ve seen so far this year are putting pressure on the water supplies needed to facilitate navigation.

“The lack of rainfall is the primary driver for low flows and, in some areas, this is compounded by essential reservoir repairs required by legislation, which are temporarily reducing their water storage capacity.”

• Continued on page 2

Mon & Brec Canal debate

Pollution reporting goes digital

New boat boosts river clean-up

THE Canal & River Trust has welcomed a Welsh Parliament debate on safeguarding the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal. Members heard how the canal generates £30 million annually and supports vital wildlife, tourism and local well-being. Concerns were raised over new restrictions on its water source from the River Usk. Emergency measures are in place, but long-term solutions are needed. A rally before the debate showed strong public support.

A NEW web app from the Environment Agency makes it easier than ever to report water pollution and odour problems across England. The ‘Report an environmental problem’ service, now live on gov.uk, complements the existing phone hotline and lets users quickly flag issues via map, text and, shortly, photos or video. Regular river users and communities can now act fast when spotting pollution.

MELTON & Oakham Waterways Society (MOWS) has received a £9800 workboat, funded entirely by the Severn Trent Community Fund. Built by JT Fabrications, the new 4.8m boat replaces Badger, the group’s ageing vessel. With a more powerful engine and improved design, it will support yearround maintenance on the Rivers Eye and Wreake. MOWS volunteers are now fitting out the boat ahead of launch.

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August 2025

Welcome to the August edition of Towpath Talk THIS summer’s relentless dry spell – following the driest spring since 1893 – has left large stretches of our canal network struggling under the weight of water shortages. As our lead story outlines, the Canal & River Trust is battling low reservoir holdings, environmental constraints and soaring evaporation rates to keep waterways open. Boaters across the country have faced groundings, detours, and now, widespread lock restrictions. Volunteers and CRT staff alike are working hard to manage traffic and conserve every drop of water. We urge all boaters to plan ahead, share locks and help safeguard what remains of our navigable waters during this critical period.

In light of these challenges, it’s more important than ever to champion innovation and care on the cut – which is why entries are now open for the 2025 Sustainable Boating Awards. These awards, run jointly by the Inland Waterways Association and Towpath Talk, celebrate those making a real difference in reducing environmental impact.

Nominations (maximum 1000 words, with up to six photos) should be submitted to IWATTsustainable. awards@waterways.org.uk by August 30. Winners will be honoured at the IWA annual meeting on September 27. Let’s shine a light on the boaters helping to preserve our waterways for the future.

Enjoy the edition.

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Weather brings woes as waterways dry up • Continued from page 1

Alex Hennessey went on to explain: “The trust is now also required to comply with modern legally binding environmental conditions in place to protect rivers and streams which can limit the feed of water into the canal network, further reducing historic sources of water.

“The canal network has a constant demand for water. While boat passage through locks is an obvious use of water, evaporation and transpiration can see canals lose as much as an inch of water on hot summer days. An underlying ‘sweetening flow’ is also always needed to support ecology and avoid canals turning stagnant.”

While the majority of the network is open and fully navigable, there are currently restrictions in place on certain canals. Mostly, this means reduced lock operating hours, which are intended to extend water supplies and navigation for as long as possible this summer. In some instances, low water supply means that boat passage through locks has

Reservoirs that feed the Macclesfield and Peak Forest Canals are depleted after a very dry spring.

PHOTO: PETE MCGUINNESS

been temporarily suspended.

A map of the affected areas can be found on the Notices section of the trust’s website: filter by reason: ‘Low Water Levels’ and select ‘Map View’.

While navigation restrictions currently mostly affect northern waterways, the continued dry

weather means that restricted lock opening times are now being introduced elsewhere, including sections of the Grand Union and Oxford canals, and in some parts of the Midlands.

The trust’s volunteer lock keepers have been helping to manage boat

traffic at lock flights to ensure water supplies are used as sparingly as possible, and the trust continues its programme of water-saving repair works to increase all available water flows into the canal network.

Water levels are being reviewed daily and the trust says it will remove, or introduce, watersaving measures as necessary.

If it rains enough to allow safe navigation, restrictions will be lifted immediately: this is likely to require sufficient and prolonged rain over several weeks rather than a sudden, very heavy downpour.

Mr Hennessey added: “We know how frustrating navigation restrictions are. We’re grateful to boaters for their support and patience, including those with deeper draughted vessels. We’re asking everyone to be extra vigilant this summer; sharing locks wherever possible, doublechecking that paddles are fully closed, and planning routes carefully. These all make a real difference in helping conserve water and sustaining navigation for everyone.”

Canal charities claim ‘overly complex processes’ Dan could halt future restoration works

Editor Dan Clare tteditorial@mortons.co.uk Publisher Tim Hartley Group advertising manager Sue Keily skeily@mortons.co.uk Advertising sales Emma Hansom – 01507 529453 ehansom@mortons.co.uk Editorial design Chris Abrams Production editor Pauline Hawkins Publishing director Dan Savage Commercial director Nigel Hole Contact us Customer services 01507 529529 Telephone lines are open: MondayFriday 8.30am-5pm help@classicmagazines.co.uk www.classicmagazines.co.uk News & editorial Tel: 01507 529466/01507 529451 editorial@towpathtalk.co.uk Published by Kelsey Media Ltd, The Granary, Downs Court, Yalding Hill, Yalding, Maidstone, Kent ME18 6AL Printed by Mortons Print Ltd Tel. 01507 523456 Next issue –Thursday, August 21

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CANAL restoration charities have slammed the Canal & River Trust after it revealed a new way of working with organisations that repair and renovate waterways.

CRT says it will not support new projects at the expense of navigations it already maintains and will charge charities who do work on its property.

But the Wendover Canal Trust, which has been responsible for restoration of the waterways in Buckinghamshire and has completed many projects, says the tone of the proposals are “negative” and take no account of work which benefits the national charity.

It added that in some projects the CRT should be funding the restoration trusts “rather than the other way round”.

In addition, David Martin, chairman of the Friends of the Cromford Canal, hit out at the CRT, saying its plans had halted vital restoration work on the canal.

He said: “The next phase

(accommodation bridge and link to Beggarlee locks) is nothing but stopped and held back by the overly complicated processes that the Canal & River Trust has in place; my exasperation with that body has now passed boiling point. I don’t know how anyone gets anywhere in today’s world!

Even communication with the trust is a surprisingly difficult process; it’s like we exist in another time zone!

“Last year other canal societies did warn me about the overly complex processes that CRT now has in place and how frustrated they were with it all.”

Wendover Canal Trust chairman Clive Johnson said: “Rather than seeking to make money from canal restorers, CRT should raise its game in justifying continued state funding. It’s not enough to keep talking about canals, boats and navigation; CRT should be talking much more about 2000 miles of free-access open linear park through deprived

areas, the listed structures which they manage and the environmental and wildlife benefits of what they provide.”

Mr Johnson argued that there was a case for restoration organisations not to be charged by the CRT, given the work they do: “The canal system would not exist in its current form and popularity, had it not been for decades of the voluntary efforts of numerous voluntary canal groups.”

In a statement, the CRT said it acknowledged the passion and desire of many restoration societies to restore closed canals back to a full navigable standard. There are clear societal and economic benefits to restoring and expanding the availability of the canal network.

It added: “Any restoration may come with increased maintenance or water demands upon the trust and this will need to be considered when approving any restoration; in this way the trust will ensure no

funds or resources are taken away from those navigations it already maintains as navigable and that it has the resource and water to maintain any newly restored canals to the same standard as the rest of the network.

“Restoration projects will often be a complex undertaking and, in many cases, will be considered a major civil engineering project. Such work needs to comply with relevant legislation, and this requires skills, knowledge, experience and time.

Although the trust is aware that restoration societies may be resourced with the skills to deliver such work, the trust strongly recommends that professional support with the appropriate insurance in place is sourced to deliver the work or elements of it.

“Any organisation wishing to undertake restoration works on trust property will need to satisfy the requirements and competency checks which

are described within this plan and the trust will require cost reimbursement for any work/staff time. A cost estimate can be prepared based upon a project scope of works and the trust may have to procure dedicated resources to deliver its part in a restoration.”

The Wendover Canal Trust said there needed to be more detail on what CRT charging would look like, adding that some of the wording “appears to require restorers to write CRT a blank cheque for whatever you choose to charge”.

In addition, CRT is asking restoration trusts to fully comply with all health and safety, and other legislation which the Wendover trust says could deter volunteers from helping on projects.

CRT has stated that it is lobbying the Government for more resources but in the meantime, it must use its resources in the most effective way, ensuring existing waterways are maintained and navigable.

3

www.towpathtalk.co.uk August 2025

Midlands canal reopens 11 months after devastating toxic spill – but still no news on prosecution

BOATERS are finally using the closed section of the Walsall Canal, 11 months after it was poisoned with deadly chemicals – but there is still no indication of any prosecutions.

Remedial work has cost more than £500,000, involving dredging to remove some of the 4000 litres of zinc cyanide solution which leaked from Anochrome Ltd, north of Ocker Hill, into the Wyrley and Essington Canal.

Henriette Breukelaar, director for the West Midlands at the Canal & River Trust, said: “After many months of closure, I am delighted to reopen the Walsall Canal to our boating community. It has taken significant time and resources to remove the toxins, and I thank boaters for their patience during the clean-up.”

The Environment Agency said it is not unusual for investigations to take months to conclude, adding that it would not be able to comment on the case for several months.

A spokesman said: “We will not hesitate to take decisive action against those responsible for pollution incidents. The investigation into the spillage that affected the Walsall Canal in August 2024 is a significant investigation which involves multiple agencies. While the canal has now reopened,

we are continuing to gather statements and evidence.

This includes monitoring the impact of boat traffic to assess the harm caused by the spillage.”

Ms Breukelaar added: “This incident has had a lasting impact on the canal’s ecology, but our team acted swiftly to contain the pollution and prevent further damage to wildlife. The clean-up has so far cost our charity hundreds of thousands of pounds that would have been used to repair our canals. We will seek to reclaim this money from the polluting company and invest it in caring for the canals in the West Midlands.

“We will continue to closely monitor the canal to ensure no further harm comes to wildlife. The extraordinary scale and nature of this pollution incident means we can’t be certain how long it will take for fish and other wildlife to fully recover. We will therefore continue to closely monitor the canal to make sure we remain on track to see this beautiful and much-loved stretch of canal make a full recovery for boaters and local communities to fully enjoy.”

In August 2024, a chemical spillage caused up to 4000 litres of highly toxic zinc cyanide solution to enter the canal at Pleck. To contain the pollution, a 12-mile stretch was initially closed to the

public and boaters.

Teams from the Canal & River Trust, the Environment Agency, Walsall and Sandwell councils, the UK Health and Safety Agency, the emergency services, Severn Trent Water and contractors on behalf of the polluter worked to limit the spread of the spill and protect the canal’s ecosystem. The closure was quickly reduced to a one-mile-long stretch from Pleck to Walsall Top Lock at Birchills and the towpath was reopened several weeks later when chemical levels were at a consistently safe level.

The canal has been dredged to remove cyanidecontaminated silt, further reducing risks to wildlife and aiding ecological recovery.

About 526 tonnes of silt have been removed and safely disposed.

Coun Adrian Andrew, associate leader at Walsall Council, said: “Despite the situation, this reopening is something to be celebrated.

I know our canals are important to many people, and it is a great relief they can now be enjoyed once more.”

The Environment Agency can prosecute without referring to the Crown Prosecution Service. Earlier, the agency said no decision on enforcement would be made until the clean-up was complete.

Volunteers are needed to help keep the locks running smoothly on the Gargrave stretch of the Leeds & Liverpool Canal in Yorkshire. The Canal & River Trust, which looks after the canal, is appealing for adults to train to be lock keepers this year.

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

Plea for volunteers to ‘unlock’ their potential

VOLUNTEER lock keepers are needed to help keep a stretch of the UK’s longest canal open this year.

People are being urged to donate a day a week to operate the Gargrave stretch of the Leeds & Liverpool Canal, located on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales.

Lock keepers are ‘the face of the waterways,’ and this iconic role has been a familiar feature for hundreds of years on Britain’s canals. With many people enjoying their local canal and towpath as a place to escape and relax, modern-day volunteer lock keepers are an invaluable part of the visitor experience, said the Canal & River Trust.

Offering a friendly welcome, they provide local information and assist with a variety of important tasks, including water management, environmental and heritage maintenance tasks, and assisting boaters and public passing through the area.

Andy Salt, volunteering leader at the trust, said: “Gargrave is a beautiful and popular spot on the Leeds & Liverpool Canal, close to the summit. It can be vulnerable to changes in water levels, so monitoring and helping to manage water levels is an important part of the volunteer lock keeping role and helping to look after, repair, paint, mow, plant along the six locks at Gargrave to keep them looking their best.

“You don’t need experience of boating or working on the waterways. The most important things are enthusiasm, a willingness to learn, and a friendly manner.

It’s a great opportunity for anyone who loves being outdoors, is looking for something different to do, and is interested in keeping the tradition of lock keeping alive.”

The role works on a shift basis between April and October, assisting for a minimum of one day a week. People of all ages above 18 and experiences are encouraged to apply, with training and induction sessions provided. A new welfare unit in Gargrave at Higherland Lock, near the boater facilities in the middle of the village, is being installed for the volunteer team.

Sean McGinley, director at the Canal & River Trust’s Yorkshire and North East region, added: “Volunteers are a hugely important part of enabling our charity to continue to preserve and protect this national treasure, while helping to celebrate the canals’ colourful history and bring their stories to new audiences. If you are interested and thinking of joining us, our message is ‘your canal needs you’.”

Volunteering on the canals provides its own health benefits. Canals have been proven to have a positive impact on people’s mental well-being. A study last year by King’s College London showed positive associations between visits to canals and rivers and mental well-being, as well as a positive experience for feelings of safety and social inclusion relative to other environments.

About one million people in Yorkshire live within a 10-minute walk of trustmanaged waterways, but many don’t realise that the locks, bridges, aqueducts and towpaths, together with the habitat for wildlife, are looked after by a charity.

For further information, search ‘volunteer lock keeper Gargrave’ on the Canal & River Trust website: wwwcanalrivertrust.org.uk/ volunteer

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August 2025

Charity faces £80k bill after latest vehicle strike at historic canal bridge

By Lucy Wood

DRIVERS have been urged to take care after the bridge located on the Staffordshire & Worcestershire Canal between Dimmingsdale Lock and Wightwick Lock was struck by a vehicle for the fifth time in 14 years.

The Canal & River Trust is carrying out urgent repair work, estimated to cost £80,000, to the badly damaged parapet. Repeated collisions have taken a serious toll on the bridge’s original masonry, prompting the trust to call on motorists to slow down and take extra care when driving over historic canal bridges.

CRT senior project manager Paul Ardill said: “The region’s canals are a national treasure; part of our shared

heritage. Every time a bridge is struck by a passing vehicle, it chips away a piece of heritage that we can never fully replace. This latest strike has caused significant structural damage to the bridge’s masonry, prompting urgent conservation and repair work which will take weeks to complete.”

The bridge is one of about 2800 such structures maintained by the trust. Most were built in the 18th and 19th centuries, long before the advent of modern vehicles, making them vulnerable to strikes by wide or speeding traffic. The trust is urging all road users to observe signage, reduce speed and take extra care when approaching hump-backed or

narrow canal bridges.

Paul added: “Vehicle strikes cost us, a charity, more than £1 million a year, with many incidents going unreported.

On this occasion we do have the driver’s details so we can claim some of our costs back from their insurance company. However, often our bridges are damaged in hit-and-run incidents, leaving us to pay the bill.

“If everyone driving over these bridges took things slower, we could save priceless pieces of our canal history from being badly damaged.”

As this issue went to press, the road, canal and towpath remained closed while debris was removed, and the bridge made safe.

The damaged bridge at Dimmingsdale, on the Staffordshire & Worcestershire Canal. PHOTO: CRT

The Canal & River Trust has dredged Gloucester Docks to benefit boaters. PHOTO: CRT

Boaters benefit from annual docks dredging programme THE Canal & River Trust has carried out dredging at Gloucester Docks as part of its vital work to manage Britain’s most inland port.

The charity has spent £3 million in the last three years on dredging the docks to allow boats and tall vessels to freely navigate and moor in the heart of Gloucester, located about 35 miles from the mouth of the Bristol Avon. The dredging programme is estimated to have removed about 2500 cubic metres of silt – enough to fill an Olympic swimming pool.

The docks form part of a vital supply chain providing half of the daily water supply for residents and businesses in Bristol. Water is pumped from the River Severn into Gloucester Docks, and along the Gloucester & Sharpness Canal. Unfortunately, this also brings tonnes of silt into the docks from the river, and the CRT carries out an annual programme of dredging to remove it.

Environmental company Land & Water has undertaken the latest work, using a digger

mounted on a barge. The silt is then loaded onto a hopper and transported down the Gloucester & Sharpness Canal to a site near Parkend Bridge for safe disposal.

Paul Fox, a senior project manager at the trust, said: “Every year we dredge huge amounts of silt from Gloucester Docks as part of our ongoing programme of maintenance.

“The build-up, caused by water pumped in from the Severn, is monitored by regular surveys so our charity can take action to remove it and ensure craft are able to enter and navigate the docks, including for the popular Tall Ships festival, which is next taking place in 2027.

“Good progress has been made to maintain the depths required with a couple of barge loads of silt being removed each day during the work.”

The docks are set to welcome thousands of visitors again this summer to enjoy being by the water and surrounded by history, including the popular National Waterways Museum Gloucester.

Wrights Bridge reopens after major repairs

The Canal & River Trust, working in partnership with Sandwell Council, has reopened the 129-year-old Wrights Bridge after extensive repairs.

Located on the Dudley No. 2 Canal, the bridge connects local people to the Old Hill railway station and has been closed for several years due to safety concerns about the bridge deck and its structural supports. Constructed in 1896, it was originally manufactured by renowned steel-maker Dormon Long & Co, which also built Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Thanks to funding from Sandwell Council’s Towns Fund, the bridge has been extensively repaired and now offers an easy walking and cycling route across the canal.

The 14-week project involved replacing and repairing the worn-out wooden sections of bridge deck and its steel supporting beams.

Where possible, sections of the bridge were kept, preserving as much of the original bridge as possible. The supporting brick walls were also repaired, and the bridge access ramps have been resurfaced.

Awarded in 2022, the Towns Fund grant was an investment of £2.3 million aimed at improving canal towpaths. The Canal Network Connectivity Project has

improved four-and-a-half miles of towpath improvements along the Netherton Tunnel Branch Canal, the Gower Branch Canal, the Old Mainline Canal and the Dudley No. 2 Canal.

Henriette Breukelaar, director for the West Midlands at Canal & River Trust, said: “It’s wonderful to see this bridge back open after being closed for many years. We thank Sandwell Council and The Rowley Regis Towns Fund Board for their support in getting this important community amenity back in use. “As a charity, we are facing some challenging financial times, and support like this allows us to carry out repairs like this without having to divert the money needed to keep our canals open.”

Coun Peter Hughes, Sandwell Council’s cabinet member for regeneration and infrastructure, said: “By making the bridge safe and reopening it to the public, we are reinvigorating the area as a place to visit, enjoy, and use in our everyday lives.”

For more information on The Canal Network Connectivity Project, visit https ://regeneratingsandwell. co.uk/sandwell_projects/ canal-network-connectivity/

www.towpathtalk.co.uk

Wrights Bridge before it was made accessible again. PHOTO: CRT

Wrights Bridge after the work was carried out. PHOTO: CRT

5

www.towpathtalk.co.uk August 2025

Towpath upgrades see £3m investment into West Yorkshire’s canals

By Lucy Wood

A £3 MILLION towpath improvement scheme is being undertaken along two canals in the Huddersfield area.

Working in partnership with the West Yorkshire Combined Authority and Kirklees Council, funding was secured by the Canal & River Trust to improve the towpath along the Huddersfield Broad Canal, from Aspley Basin in Huddersfield to Cooper Bridge, where the canal joins the Calder & Hebble Navigation.

Meanwhile, resurfacing of the historic towpath between Marsden and Slaithwaite on the Huddersfield Narrow Canal is in the final stage of a five-year, three-phase project.

As well as the towpath upgrades, a new ramp has been constructed at Scarwood Bridge to improve access to the towpath.

The routes are being resurfaced with a tar and stone chipping finish.

This will provide a durable all-weather surface to enable more people to walk, wheel, scoot and cycle more often, as well as complementing the

natural environments surrounding the canal towpaths.

Other improvements include better access for people with mobility difficulties and for pushchair users, widening the towpath where possible to assist use while retaining heritage features, grass verges, and native plants and trees to support wildlife habitats, repairs to the canal walls and new mooring bollards for boaters.

Mark Robinson, the CRT’s enterprise manager, said: “We know these canal towpaths are well used by the local community and it’s fantastic to see these two towpath improvement schemes under construction.

“The canals in the Huddersfield area were vital to the Industrial Revolution and, thanks to the hard work of the trust and our volunteers, they are still navigated by boats today, as well as providing much-loved walking and cycling routes for the local community.”

The schemes are being delivered by the trust in partnership with Kirklees Council and West Yorkshire Combined

Huddersfield Narrow Canal towpath before works commenced. PHOTO: CRT

Authority. They will enable more puddle-free journeys on foot and by bike, as well as improving accessibility for wheelchair and pushchair users, and boosting economic growth by providing access to employment and education opportunities.

The funding comes from West Yorkshire’s Active Travel Fund, which is grant funding provided by Active Travel England to support local transport authorities with producing cycling and walking facilities.

Works on the Huddersfield Narrow Canal began in June and are expected to continue until October 2025. The towpath project on the Huddersfield Broad Canal started in mid-June and is expected to finish in January 2026. Both the Huddersfield Broad and Huddersfield Narrow canals’ towpaths will remain open with restrictions, meaning that people will be escorted through the sites safely.

Last summer, boaters, local residents, businesses and other users were invited to share their feedback on the proposals, which informed the scheme’s designs.

The CRT is undertaking £3 million of towpath improvements along two canals in the Huddersfield area. PHOTO: CRT

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Tardebigge Top Lock, which is undergoing vital repairs.

It is part of the UK’s longest flight of locks, on the Worcester & Birmingham Canal. IMAGE: SUPPLIED

Bid to raise £10,000 for vital lock repair at UK’s longest flight

A CROWDFUNDING campaign to repair the 215-year-old Tardebigge Top Lock on the Worcester & Birmingham Canal to halt its collapse has so far raised £1500.

The restoration of the Grade II-listed structure is needed to ensure that the important piece of canal heritage is protected and for the continued safe passage of boats, as well as for the thousands of walkers and cyclists who use the towpath each year.

Opened in 1815, the Tardebigge flight of locks carries the Worcester & Birmingham Canal 220 feet uphill over two-and-aquarter miles. With 30 locks, the Top Lock is particularly deep because it was the site of an 18th century experimental vertical boat lift before it was replaced with a conventional lock. The canal was originally used as transportation of porcelain pots and Cadbury’s chocolate, and is now popular with leisure boats, cutting into the heart of Birmingham at Gas Street Basin.

Emily Harris, senior project manager at Canal & River Trust, said: “Tardebigge Locks is our longest canal lock flight and is a popular route for boaters and people wanting to explore their local canal.

“Our canals are a national treasure. They matter not only to the local communities but to everyone else as well – because

canals enhance the natural environment, they help to mitigate climate change, and they are integral to our future water security and supply. Emergency works like these at Tardebigge Lock highlight how vulnerable they can be, and how important it is that they are properly protected.

“All the donations to this crowdfunder will be gratefully received and will make a difference to this important stretch of canal.”

You can donate here: www. crowdfunder.co.uk/p/lock Having been in active service transporting boats for more than 200 years, movement in the ground adjacent to the lock caused one of its walls to bow meaning the lock and towpath have been closed since March.

Specialist conservation teams, archaeologists and engineers have drained the lock of water and have been working to carefully dismantle the damaged section of wall. The team has been focusing on cleaning and salvaging the original historic bricks so they can be reused as part of the restoration and ensure the lock’s historic character is preserved.

The trust aims to raise £10,000 to help cover the cost. Support from the public will go directly towards the work needed to remove and clean the historic bricks, as well as purchasing new bricks and the materials needed to rebuild the lock walls.

6

August 2025

www.towpathtalk.co.uk

Former MP joins charity in bid to secure Welsh canals’ future Glandŵr Cymru, the Canal & River Trust in Wales, announced the appointment of Fay Jones-Poole as the new chair of the advisory board that oversees its charitable activity in Wales. It also published a report highlighting the significant contribution Wales’s historic canals make to the nation’s economy, communities, heritage and environment.

MRS Jones-Poole, director of external affairs at the Crown Estate and the former MP for Brecon and Radnorshire, joins the trust as it works to safeguard the 76 miles of canals it cares for in Wales. This work includes managing the impact of climate pressures and rising costs in looking after the centuries-old man-made canals.

An immediate focus is the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal, a vital wildlife corridor that contributes £29.5 million each year to the Welsh economy through boating and other activity but which is facing an existential threat due to new environmental regulations that limit the water the trust is permitted to put into the canal from its historic source, meaning it could run dry in future years. As previously reported in Towpath Talk, temporary water supply has been secured from Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water by the trust for 2025, but a long-term sustainable solution is urgently needed with the support of the Welsh Government.

In Wales, the trust has raised more than £12 million since 2012 from public and private partners alongside about £28 million it has also invested. But as the climate changes, it said, canals are facing rising pressures.

Storms and floods are damaging historic structures, including towpaths, bridges and culverts, while droughts are causing brickwork to crumble and threatening key water supplies. Meanwhile, rising costs and reduced governmental support are stretching the charity’s resources to the limit.

Richard Parry, outgoing chief executive of the Canal & River Trust, said: “I am delighted to welcome Fay to our charity. Her political and commercial experience is important as she joins at a pivotal time, with the canal network delivering so much but constantly fighting the unrelenting passage of time and requiring investment to make it resilient to climate change.

“The future of the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal is under serious threat due to

Fay Jones-Poole has been appointed as chair of Glandŵr Cymru. PHOTO: CRT new environmental regulations that limit the amount of water it can abstract from the River Usk. Our charity has secured a temporary emergency supply, but this is expensive and not sustainable in the long term.

“Fay and the Welsh Board will help our charity as we seek a long-term solution, without which dry weather could force sections of the canal to close, threatening the local economy, environment and visitor experience.”

Mrs Jones-Poole said joining Glandŵr Cymru as a volunteer on a three-year term is an ‘honour,’ adding: “The canals have been part of Wales’s story for more than two centuries, and today they remain uniquely valuable as havens for wildlife, places to improve well-being and as contributors to the economy. Without our intervention, these man-made habitats simply would not survive.

“We are committed to doing everything we can to achieve a sustainable future for these special places – keeping them safe, resilient and maximising their value for people, nature and the Welsh economy.

I’m passionate about securing the ongoing support our canals need and, in particular, I’ll be looking for a timely solution for the Mon & Brec Canal, which runs a stone’s throw from my home. It’s an irreplaceable part of Welsh life and we need the Government and partners to work with us to safeguard this national treasure for future generations.”

The first-ever Our Work In Wales report is available to read on Glandŵr Cymru’s website: www.canalrivertrust.org.uk/wales

FBW flotilla reaches final destination as cash message is driven home

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A MONTHS-LONG protest at the level of funding for the UK’s waterways is entering its final phase. An intrepid flotilla of boats took the Fund Britain’s Waterways message about the desperate need for cash for rivers and canals straight to the heart of Westminster – gaining public support along the way.

The group of 13 vessels left the capital in May and tackled a crossing of the Wash before entering the Fenland and Middle Level waterways. They covered 600 miles and 365 locks during their journey, which started in South

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Yorkshire at the end of March with a 26-strong flotilla.

In a statement, FBW said: “The Wash is not natural territory for narrowboats and to see a group of 13 boats making the crossing is highly unusual, demonstrating the determination of the campaigners to draw attention to the importance of their cause.

“People still flock to enjoy the beauty and tranquillity of Britain’s waterways, from holidaying on hire boats to simply strolling along their towpaths. Behind every visitor is an array of local businesses, from pubs and hotels to specialist marine companies, the success of which is heavily dependent on having in place well-managed, clean and navigable waterways.

“This is why every effort must now be made to retain, if not boost, the stretched resources our navigation authorities have to maintain the waterways and all the associated economic, environmental and social benefits they provide. After years of insufficient funding, the inland waterway network faces jeopardy and many commercial opportunities are left untapped.”

FBW said it was concerned at the cuts made to Defra’s budget,

as the funder of the Canal & River Trust via the Environment Agency and is calling for a fresh approach to funding the waterways. “How Defra will manage its resources and what impact its budget cuts may have on navigation authorities is not yet known. What is clear is that public support for the Fund Britain’s Waterways coalition continues to grow – as witnessed by the support for the different phases of this year’s FBW campaign cruise.”

Hazel Owen, leader of the flotilla and chair of the AWCC (Association of Waterways Cruising Clubs) and a member of the FBW steering group, said: “The journey of these boats and their crews has not been straightforward but has required dedication and tireless efforts, surmounting obstacles presented by failing infrastructure and other challenging events along the way.

“The perseverance and shared mission of the boaters speak for all who care about the preservation and future of Britain’s beautiful and historically significant waterways, not only boaters but millions of other people too. They are united in seeking awareness, action, and change.”

Fund Britain’s Waterways boaters pictured in London as they took their message direct to the heart of Westminster. FBW is calling for a rethink of how the UK’s rivers and canals are funded in order to preserve them for future generations.

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

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www.towpathtalk.co.uk August 2025

Cyclist enjoys new lease of life thanks to volunteers

Joost Smeele is thankfully well on the road to recovery after he collapsed near the historic Bingley Five Rise Locks. “Now I have been introduced to the people who saved me, I have a second shot at life… and a whole new group of friends!” he said.

By Lucy Wood

THE quick-thinking actions of bystanders have been praised for coming to the aid of the Bingley-born 61-year-old, who had two more heart attacks on the way to hospital after collapsing at Beck Lane.

Canal & River Trust volunteers and staff were among the first on the scene after being alerted by two runners who found Mr Smeele unconscious and called the emergency services. Volunteer lock keeper and trained first aider Richard Breese assisted with CPR, while Megan Darley, the owner of Five Rise Locks Café, retrieved a defibrillator and helped use it before paramedics arrived.

Richard recalled of the incident in May: “We’d just returned from helping a boat down the locks when two guys sprinted down to get hold of the defibrillator outside the café and asked if anyone could do CPR. I just dropped everything and rushed to help. This was the

Canal cyclist Joost Smeele pictured with the new friends who helped save his life near Bingley Five Rise Locks. Left to right are CRT volunteer lock keeper Phillippa Gibbons; Megan Darley, the owner of Bingley Five Rise Locks Cafe; Seth Anderton, a seasonal lock keeper for the trust; Mr Smeele; and trust volunteer lock keepers Stephen Pierce (wearing life jacket) and Richard Breese. PHOTO: CRT. first time I’d done CPR for real – I went into auto-pilot mode and just got on with it.

“I’ve seen Joost a couple of times since. It’s fantastic to see him back out enjoying the canal. He’s making an amazing recovery.”

Yorkshire Ambulance Service arrived on scene within minutes and stabilised Mr Smeele, who had two more heart attacks while travelling to Bradford Royal Infirmary. He was later transferred to Leeds General Infirmary.

“I’ve always been fit and healthy and never considered myself at risk of cardiac arrest,” said Mr Smeele. “I have no

recollection of the incident, but when my heart stopped, I had limited time before that became permanent. The prompt action from bystanders is what saved me. Every one of us should be confident to perform CPR and use a defibrillator if required.”

Megan, who recently became the new owner of Five Rise Locks Café, having worked at the waterside hotspot for the last 10 years, added: “I’m just so glad I could help – it’s something I’ll never forget and shows how important it is to have access to this life-saving equipment.”

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Headway made on Huddersfield Narrow Canal embankment repairs

By Lucy Wood

WORK is ramping up to repair a stretch of embankment on the Huddersfield Narrow Canal, between Mossley and Stalybridge, which slipped following heavy rain earlier this year.

The Canal & River Trust has secured agreements with several third-party landowners and installed and upgraded more than 1000m of track to access the remote location of the slip site, which sits on a narrow shelf above the River Tame. Platforms have also been created in the canal and below Lock 11 and the trust’s engineers have finalised a repair design.

Work is now under way to start reinstating the embankment using about 1400 tonnes of stone-filled mesh bags that interlock and create a strong retaining structure. They will be put in place using a 40-tonne excavator and then overtopped with soil and vegetation.

The works to repair the embankment are scheduled to be completed by mid-August, and work to reinstate the surrounding area, including the removal of access tracks and tree planting, will continue until October. A further towpath closure will be required, between Scout Tunnel and Lock 9, with local diversions signposted.

Stuart Sutherland, a senior project manager at the CRT, said: “We are pleased to get the repair works under way and are aiming to have them completed by the middle of August at the latest.

There are some unique challenges involved in a repair of this scale and remote location, but we have developed robust plans to complete this work as quickly and safely as possible.”

8 IWA ROUND-UP

August 2025

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AROUND THE COUNTRY WITH IWA’S AMY TILLSON

IWA calls for urgent action as Cam Conservancy faces crisis

Locals in awe of WRGies at Langport

THE Cam Conservancy has warned that it may ‘become unviable and inoperative’ without intervention. This is a crisis that threatens not only Cambridge’s river users, but also the city’s economy and safety. However, this isn’t contained to one area.

The Cam Conservancy’s situation is symptomatic of a vulnerability that could threaten the entire waterway network, along with communities and businesses nationally.

Around Great Britain, navigation authorities are buckling under mounting financial pressures and climate change impacts.

IWA supports the Cam Conservancy’s urgent call for a comprehensive national review of waterways infrastructure. Our rivers and canals are not just recreational assets - they are vital for local economies and the environment, an irreplaceable part of our national heritage, and must be well-maintained to prevent flooding and risk to life. For this reason, IWA is leading the Fund Britain’s Waterways coalition of more than 160 organisations to campaign for sufficient funding to safeguard the future of our waterways.

THE busy riverside in Langport, Somerset, was the focus for the first Waterway Recovery Group Canal Camp of 2025.

A historic market town along the River Parrett, Langport has become a popular destination thanks to its river regeneration project, completed in 2020. In fact, it has become so popular that its riverside paths were already worn down.

WRG’s brief was to upgrade and improve the network of paths that run alongside a half-mile section of river from Bow Bridge to Huish Bridge, including Cocklemoor, an open meadow between town and river. A group of 10 WRG volunteers attended a 10-day camp

during the Easter weekend.

With their mini digger, dumper and roller, plus barrows and hand tools, the team widened and relaid the paths using a combination of original and new path materials. Unfortunately, they ran out of time to complete a section of the Bow Bridge end.

Gerard Tucker, Langport’s town clerk, helped organise the camp. “We estimate the paths are used by approximately 240,000 people per year, which means they are subject to a lot of wear and tear,” he said. “They needed resurfacing and making wider so that people are less likely to walk on the grass.

“WRG had helped previously with our

Communities unite to restore vital waterway

Fifty years of the Shrewsbury and Newport Branch

THE Inland Waterways Association (IWA) invites boaters and canal users and enthusiasts to Agden Bridge this August bank holiday in support of restoring the Bridgewater Canal. This is following the major breach of New Year’s Day that left a crucial section of the waterway impassable.

While the breach was not due to poor upkeep it highlights a stark and growing reality: Britain’s historic waterways are increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. More frequent flash floods, intense rainfall, and prolonged dry spells are placing serious strain on even the bestmanaged stretches of canal.

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eams for 2019 are revealed k’s TTop TTeams T k’s Towpath Talk a s, we bid farewell awn AS A new decade dawn t th to 2019 with the results of our Towpath Top Team award which has been k Top Talk r r. running throughout the year.

With four teams shortlisted for the final with vote it was a veryy close-run contest t volunteers ty the Grantham Canal Society taking the title by a short head.

Such was the support also for from Crusader Community Boating first Blisworth that we are awarding our a rd – something Community Boat awa f the we had alreadyy been planning for rr. coming year. of Commended are the Friends the River Nene and the Waterways Chaplaincy’s Martin and Fiona Buck. finalists our to Award presentations

r The r. will take place in the new year. off a winning team receives the hire day boat carrying up to 10 people, generously sponsored by ABC Leisure Group Ltd. The runner-up will receive a £100 voucher to spend at Midland four Chandlers at Braunston and all finalists will receive a £100 donation towards their volunteering organisation the from Mortons Media Group Ltd,

Talk. tth Tal publisher of Towpath Our thanks go to the readers who rose of to the challenge of finding a group a gone that extra ave unsung heroes who have f their local stretch off towpath, mile for a association or ays canal or river, waterways a our judging ave community boat – and gave the panel a difficult job of shortlisting four finalists.

• Continued on page 2

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found on a boat moored Ouse bodies t achievemen f nd 100-dayCommunity of two men were fou probe Action Network (UCAN) THE bodies Boats gunshot were called UPPERMILL Y k city centre. Emergency services after starting in Yor investigating damage to narrowboats POLICE are Officers were after gunshots were fired in Cambridge. a December 5, at around 10.15pm, ay, called on Thursday, f m shots fro after nearbyy residents reported hearing near boats on the what was believed to be an air rifle the window of one River Cam. Photographs off holes in a since been published. One resident ave of the boats have the Chesterton told reporters thatt shots, coming from at Browns moored side of the river, were fired at boats on for about five Field, Fen Ditton, and this went were injuries no said minutes. Cambridgeshire Police reported and enquiries were continuing.

achieved its 100-day volunteering milestone 2300 hours of out in 2015. This included more than who, according voluntary work achieved by local people to, crafting to UCAN, “care about, and are committed environment”. and maintaining our beautiful local and for the positive Thanks were given to all supporters, work parties will feedback from the community. The next 8 and 20. The usual be on January 4 and 23, and February on Moorgate meeting point is 10am at the canal bridge Killan on 01457 Street but this can change. Contact Peter 878361 or peterkillan@hotmail.com

at around 8pm to Lendal Bridge on the River Ouse said officers on December 4. North Yorkshire Police f two men for attended “after concerns were raised with their touch in their 60s who had been out of bodies. Fire .” Upon arrival officers found the family.”

The deaths and ambulance services both attended. although did were being treated as ‘unexplained’ a post-mortem not appear to be suspicious and The men had not examination was due to take place.

Talk went to press. tth Tal been identified when Towpath

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IWA’s Shrewsbury and Newport Branch held their 50th AGM on May 30. Branch Chairman Michael Haig’s review of activity in the branch area highlighted the opening of Schoolhouse Bridge on the Montgomery Canal and the more recent ‘topping out’ ceremony nearby at Crickheath. He also reported the branch’s planned grants to assist the Shrewsbury & Newport Canals Trust at the historic Wappenshall site near Telford and continuing concern about the state of the Shropshire Union Canal embankment towpath in Nantwich.

Michael then reviewed the role of the branch as an active part of IWA. The association was formed after the war as a charity to protect Britain’s national network of navigable canals and rivers, including those

Langport Canal Camp volunteers are welcomed by West Country Branch members Mike Slade (second right) and Ray Alexander (right). project - removing silt from a slipway and clearing trees - so we asked IWA whether they could help again.”

now managed by the Canal & River Trust and others such as waterways managed by the Environment Agency.

Today the association’s focus is on funding to keep these waterways open; preserving their heritage ‒ both the structures which decay through time or are damaged by unsympathetic development and changing weather conditions as well as the heritage skills and knowledge that sustain them; and restoration which has been actively supported by the association for many years.

Another focus is sustainable boating where Michael pointed out that electrically powered boats would need a wider electrical charging infrastructure and would benefit from more dredging but currently, he said, the key to more sustainable boating is hydrotreated vegetable

oil (HVO) as it is safe and does not require engine modifications. However, HVO is all imported, is not widely available, and is subject to a confusing tax regime. The association is working with bodies such as the Royal Yachting Association and British Marine to increase the stocking of HVO and press the Government to clarify its taxation treatment.

Michael concluded with three pressing issues which currently concern the association: the huge cost and difficulties for the water supply to the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal and, also in South Wales, the threat of demolition of Aberdulais Aqueduct ‒ a protected historic structure ‒ over the River Neath, and, lastly, the major breach of the Bridgewater Canal in Cheshire.

Work Parties

PLEASE contact the branch to register your interest if you would like to attend a work party. It is advisable to wear stout shoes, old clothing, and to take waterproofs. A packed lunch and refreshments are also advisable.

August 1, 15 & 29: 10.30am - 2.30pm Burslem Port Regular work party on the Burslem Arm of the Trent & Mersey Canal, run in partnership by IWA North Staffordshire & South Cheshire Branch & the Burslem Port Trust. Meet at Luke St, Burslem.

All tools and equipment will be provided. Volunteers are advised to wear old clothes, stout shoes and to bring waterproofs in case of rain and a packed lunch if staying all day.

Please contact Dave Broome before attending: 07974 966253 or dave.

broome45@gmail.com August 21 Cheshire Locks Monthly work party on the Cheshire Lock flight of the Trent & Mersey Canal, between Kidsgrove and Wheelock. Meet at the Broughton Arms, Rode Heath, Stoke-on-Trent, UK Meet at 10-00 a.m. and work through until 3-00 p.m. If you are able to stay all day, please bring a packed lunch and a drink. Be sure to wear old clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty and marked with paint. Stout footwear is appropriate

and bring along a waterproof in the event of rain. Contact Tony Walker: 07708 320470 walker. tony31@gmail.com August 3 & 19 Northampton Branch Volunteering dates: Work parties are usually held one weekday and one Sunday a month, along the Northampton Arm. The tasks usually include vegetation clearance, weeding, litter picking and painting at locks. Contact Geoff Wood geoff.wood@ waterways.org.uk, for details.

9

www.towpathtalk.co.uk August 2025

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Exploring your canal ancestry: Hitting a brick wall

Nicola Lisle continues her family history series with advice on what to do when you hit a genealogical brick wall.

HAS the trail for one of your ancestors gone cold? Have all attempts to find further details in the family history records drawn blanks? If so, you are far from alone! It is incredibly frustrating but can also be an exciting challenge to track down that elusive ancestor. So, how do you smash through that brick wall?

First, don’t despair. There are often avenues that you hadn’t considered exploring. Use the records of other ancestors to see if you can find nuggets of information about your missing ancestor and hopefully pick up the trail again.

The reasons for hitting brick walls are many, but the most common ones arise from information being recorded incorrectly. Most boating families were illiterate and relied on others to fill in official forms on their behalf, often resulting in the names entered being incomplete or misspelt. Others deliberately gave false information, due to distrust of authority or to hide ‘dodgy’ details, such as illegitimacy or a criminal past.

Missing records also account for many brick walls. A missing birth certificate, for example, means that details of parentage may not be available. With a bit of luck, though, it might be possible to find this information elsewhere.

Museums, such as the London Canal Museum, can be good sources for oral history recordings, as can local archives.

PHOTO: NICOLA LISLE

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•

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How to track down missing ancestors

There are numerous possible ways to smash through those brick walls. Here are a few ideas.

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It may be tedious, but the best starting point is to check through all the information you have gathered so far.

Make sure you have copied details from official sources correctly, including dates, spellings, etc. Read through all your notes carefully; there might be something you had previously missed, or details that seemed insignificant might now be the breakthrough you are looking for. Look carefully at dates of births, baptisms, marriages and deaths, as these might help to pinpoint dates for your missing ancestor. Even if you don’t get a definite date, the details you have so far might at least narrow things

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down a little, making the way forward a bit clearer.

Check whether new records have become available since your original searches. Genealogists are constantly adding newly digitised records to online resources, so it’s worth checking regularly for additional material.

Try searching using different spellings and name variations. This often throws up some new possibilities, which can then be checked against other records.

Talk to family members – they might remember details about recent ancestors or have the information you need squirreled away somewhere.

Orders of service for weddings, baptisms and funerals can be particularly useful.

Relatives might also be able to identify people in photographs, and will perhaps know the occasion and the date.

If you have created a timeline, as suggested in the last article in this series, study this again to see whether there are any pointers as to why an ancestor might have disappeared from the records. The opening of a new canal, for example, might indicate a possible change of employment and relocation to a different part of the country.

Consider other possible reasons for an ancestor’s disappearance, such as military service, emigration, imprisonment, transportation or a spell in the dreaded workhouse.

If the records you are after are missing,

Family wedding photographs such as this can help track down missing ancestors. PHOTO: SUPPLIED BY PERMISSION OF DOREEN PINNELL

•

•

or your ancestor isn’t mentioned in the records, think of alternative sources that might have the information you need.

Bishops’ transcripts, for example, are worth consulting if parish records are missing. Wills often confirm family details that would normally be found in birth, marriage and death certificates.

Other possible sources include company records, boat registers, toll records, union records, electoral rolls, directories, coroners’ reports, prison records, school records, obituaries, passenger lists, memorial inscriptions and oral records.

Try some of the less obvious resources – parish newsletters or company newsletters, for example. Anything that mentions your ancestor, or an event or place associated with him, can help to narrow down your search.

Family history societies can be helpful in tracking down missing ancestors, so try investigating those connected to your ancestor’s area.

For most of the above suggestions, your best resources are local archives, The National Archives (www.nationalarchives.gov.uk), The Waterways Archive (www.canalrivertrust.

The Imperial War Museum, London, is a good resource for tracing military ancestors. PHOTO: NICOLA LISLE org.uk), Ancestry (www.ancestry.co.uk) and Findmypast (www.findmypast.co.uk).

At some point you may have to accept that there are no existing records for your elusive ancestor, but more often than not something can be found. Leave no stone unturned, and you might be pleasantly surprised with what you find!

Local teams drive canal restoration forward

A DEDICATED team of volunteers in the Cotswolds is making remarkable progress towards a long-held dream – reconnecting the historic Cotswold Canals to the River Thames. Spearheaded by the Cotswold Canals Trust (CCT), this ambitious restoration project aims to re-establish the waterway link from the River Severn to the Thames, creating a continuous canal route through the heart of England.

Based at the trust’s Eastern Depot in Driffield, South Cerney, the team is working on Phase 2 of the restoration, a crucial section that will ultimately reconnect the canal to the River Thames at Inglesham. The work spans the picturesque Cotswold Water Park area, involving essential conservation tasks that blend traditional craftsmanship with modern restoration techniques.

Over the summer months, the team has been hard at work despite challenging weather conditions. The recently upgraded footbridge over the River Churn – now fitted with ramps and non-slip decking – has dramatically improved access for volunteers transporting

Volunteers in action at the eastern effort of the restoration of the Cotswold Canals. PHOTO: NEIL DOWSON tools and materials. Much of the depot’s people power is currently focused on a towpath upgrade at South Cerney, with crews braving heavy showers and high temperatures to maintain momentum.

At Inglesham, another key location, volunteers have cleared the canal bed and adjacent ditches and are now rebuilding the historic spillweir. The team uses a flail mower and a newly restored industrial mower – donated and repaired over winter – to keep the vegetation in check.

Support from national organisations like the Wat e r w ay Re c ov e r y Group (WRG) has been instrumental. In May, the WRG’s team provided a significant boost to the

project. WRG’s Newbury group also returned in June to rebuild wing walls at Weymoor Bridge, dig out for new concrete foundations and prepare for a full summer work camp that will continue this transformative work.

Each stage brings the project closer to restoring this lost waterway – not just as a navigation route but as a rich corridor for nature, heritage and recreation.

Visitors are welcome at CCT’s Cotswold Lakes Visitor Centre, where they can learn more about the project and how to get involved. Every step forward is powered by volunteers – and every helping hand takes the canal one step closer to its historic reunion with the Thames.

11

www.towpathtalk.co.uk August 2025

Small screen celebration of narrowboat living

By Lucy Wood

TV personality Robbie Cumming went back to where it all began for the sixth series of Canal Boat Diaries. Television viewers have been taken through some of the most beautiful countryside and canalscapes the south of England has to offer in the new series of Robbie Cumming’s Canal Boat Diaries on the U&Yesterday channel.

Onboard his narrowboat home, Naughty Lass, filmmaker Robbie has explored the Oxford Canal, River Thames and other waterways of southeast England, and his journey took him back to London where his boating life began a decade ago.

Along the way, he faced challenges like fluctuating river levels, low bridges and winter stoppages, met fellow boaters, delved into local history, explored landmarks linked to the Profumo Affair and Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, and tackled quieter canals like the Basingstoke, dealing with water shortages and obstacles. He also met fellow boater Timothy Spall. With mishaps, repairs, and stunning scenery, Robbie’s adventures over 10 episodes are full of surprises, history, and breathtaking landscapes.

Robbie exclusively told Towpath Talk: “The best thing about living on the water for me personally is the feeling of freedom – to moor up in quiet places where I can get my fire pit out, practise my knife throwing, and just chill out away from all the stresses of the world.

“I don’t care about travelling the world as there is so much to see here in the UK and nowhere else has this culture of narrow canals that I’m most drawn to, but if I had to choose, I’d pick the Maldives or the Seychelles,

although I’m pretty sure I wouldn’t be able to take Naughty Lass with me!”

His latest small screen adventure ended on the Aylesbury Arm Canal, where a tricky, leaky staircase lock nearly flooded his narrowboat – adding unexpected drama to the final stretch of his journey. All episodes of Canal Boat Diaries series six are available to watch in full on U, UKTV’s on-demand player, and Robbie is also on tour with his live show, Canal Boat Stories – for dates, visit https://robbiecumming.com. You can also listen to him on the airwaves with his Canal Boat Podcast.

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Robbie Cumming, the star of Canal Boat Diaries. PHOTO: UKTV.

Montgomery Canal ‘ghost boat’ inspires Midlands artist

By Lucy Wood

A HAUNTING episode in the history of a Shropshire waterway has been immortalised by canal artist Mike Connell. Birminghambased Mike read the tragic story of George Benbow’s untimely demise at the helm of the narrowboat Usk in 1887 and was so inspired that he decided to create illustrations of Usk at various stages of its life.

In one drawing, the Usk passes through Wappenshall Junction, on the Shrewsbury & Newport canal. Mike said: “I thought it would be interesting to do an illustration of the narrowboat before it set off on its fateful journey down the Trench arm of the canal to Hadley Park lock, where the terrible accident happened.”

As dusk fell on July 26, 1887, Usk, the last boat of

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the day, was slipping into Hadley Park Lock. The lock is on the Trench arm, just south of Wappenshall Junction, and was unusual because the bottom gates had a guillotine mechanism with the gates going up and down with a counterweight box rather than swinging side to side.

George Benbow was skippering the narrowboat, with 13-year-old William Evanson as his crew. It appears that as the boat passed under the lock gate, Benbow did not duck and was hit and killed by the counterweight box.

From then on, the Usk was dogged with a reputation for being so unlucky – and haunted by Benbow’s ghost – that many boatmen would not work aboard. It was finally abandoned, and sank on the Montgomery Canal at

Crickheath, probably in the 1890s, where it lay quietly until work by the Shropshire Union Canal Society to restore the Montgomery Canal began, as reported in Towpath Talk in October last year.

A digger working on the canal channel at Crickheath Tramway Wharf came across ironwork from a narrowboat deep in the earth. All the woodwork had long since rotted away but the iron skeleton remained bent but not broken.

According to the society, the sunken vessel is almost certainly the Usk. Now, artist Mike has interpreted the legend on paper, adding: “I just hope that my drawings will bring the story of poor old George Benbow to a larger audience and quieten his restless spirit.”

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August 2025

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Characters of the Cut

Watersedge Cafe, Standedge

By Alice Elgie

ONE of the Seven Wonders of the Waterways, Standedge Tunnel in the Pennine hills at the top of the Colne valley is known around the world as the longest, highest, deepest and… wonkiest tunnel in Britain. With this fame it’s no wonder staff at the tunnel’s volunteer-run Watersedge Cafe are rightly proud of the added charm their establishment brings to this landmark.

Lead volunteer, Charles Jones, told me: “We have now been operating for 12 months and it has been a great success. We have built up our clientele, offering simple home-made hot food and cakes at a reasonable price and with our engaging staff who enjoy interacting with the public and each other, the cafe is known for its happy atmosphere.”

The Friends of Standedge arose from a maintenance volunteer group who approached Canal & River Trust to see if they could reopen the cafe after its closure in 2024. Charles explained how things unfolded: “The Friends of Standedge came about when funds were needed to help pay for the little ‘extras’ not supplied by the CRT. It began with people in the team producing articles for sale to the public such as seasonal items and this brought in a little income each year, so we put together our constitution, stated our purpose, opened a social enterprise account and started running our own little fundraising group.”

Opened in 1811 after taking an arduous 17 years to complete, Standedge Tunnel is steeped in history with the

Millennium Footbridge and tidal barrier, River Hull. PHOTO: HULLIAN 111 CC BY-SA 4.0

From left: Jane, Ken and Ann serving from the cafe.

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

building that houses the cafe believed to have been built at the same time to house the tunnel keeper and reservoir keeper. However, when the new train tunnels were built in the 1800s the demise of the tunnel as a business, and of the people who were employed to live and work there, was set in motion with the tunnel officially closing during the Second World War by an Act of Parliament.

The last boat to pass through, other than maintenance boats, was a trip by the IWA founders in 1947. However, it’s not all doom and gloom as now visitors from around the world come to see and experience this magnificent gem situated between Marsden in West Yorkshire and Diggle in Oldham, Greater Manchester.

Re g u l a r induction

Watersedge Cafe, Tunnel End, Standedge. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

‘discovery’ trips into the tunnel take half an hour and are laden with plenty of history. There are monthly ‘through’ trips which, for nearly two hours, take the visitor all the way through the tunnel, as well as canoe trips guided and supported by trained staff, so there’s plenty to entice visitors alongside the fresh filtered coffee and now-famous breakfast baps! “It is clear to us that the cafe and the boat trips are interdependent on each other and would not do as well if either of us were to close,” Charles tells me, and this sense of community support is a real joy to witness.

Falling into disrepair in the 1970s, the cafe building received a new lease of life when Huddersfield Canal Group began the difficult

Bridges benefit from five-year investment scheme

By Alison Alderton

A FIVE-YEAR investment programme to improve and enhance Hull’s infrastructure, preserve its history and help keep the city moving, is to be reviewed

by Hull City Council.

Following detailed inspections across Hull, this includes a report with a focus on fountains, statues, monuments and bridges, bringing together capital spending maintenance and inspections to ensure longevity and conservation of the city’s assets with the following recommendations: challenge of getting the tunnel – and the whole of the Huddersfield Narrow Canal – reopened in 2001 and now The Friends of Standedge help keep the area thriving. A varied bunch of volunteers, which includes a retired postmaster, nurse and dinner lady, the one thing they all have in common is a love for Standedge. In just a year this commitment has seen the cafe not only thrive with its home-cooked menu of bacon baps, hot soup, cheese toasties, hot coffee and freshly baked cakes, but one of its rooms has now been opened as a shop and information point, and there are plans for a heritage antiquities space where visitors can find out more about the history. Proceeds from the cafe are divided between projects solely for the benefit of improving visitor experience in the area, as well as supporting CRT in

The identification and prioritisation of schemes, particularly in relation to the city’s bridges, including strengthening schemes for Hessle Road Flyover, Sutton Road Bridge, Sutton Road Flyover and North Bridge as well as the replacement of bearings on Ennerdale Bridge, Stoneferry Bridge and Millennium Footbridge.

New provision to work specifically with specialist contractors to undertake cleaning regimes, structural repairs and general maintenance for statues and monuments.

Ongoing testing, cleaning and maintenance regimes for Hull’s fountains.

Safety works to Victoria Pier and the River Hull Walkway and exploring feasibility for their replacement.

One of the key areas of the report relates to Hull’s bridges and the need for repairs and upgrades. The River Hull alone has 13 opening bridges on the 16 miles of the navigable river.

These works are needed to maintain their use into the future as well as ensuring all users remain safe as they travel around the city of Hull.

raising funds for a new tourist boat, which will ensure the tunnel is available for the next generation to explore.

Charles is rightly proud of their achievements: “We have re-established the cafe as a place to meet, greet and eat and we now have plenty of regular customers who love the area and the tunnel as much as we do.”

In particular, though, it’s the four-legged visitors who

hold a special place in the cafe’s team’s heart: “We are especially fond of our fourlegged (historic link to the tunnel!) friends, so much so that this year we are putting together our first dog show.”

My guess is judges will be favouring wonky tails to match the wonky tunnel!

Website: Canalrivertrust. org.uk/standedge-tunnel Facebook: Watersedge Cafe at Standedge, Marsden

Teamwork: Sally (cook), Charles (lead volunteer), Sheila and Ann. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

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Concorde aboard Terra Marique on the Thames bound for Scotland’s Museum of Flight. PHOTO: ROBERT WYNN & SONS LTD Left: Inland Navigator on the River Ouse at Drax.

PHOTO: ROBERT WYNN & SONS LTD

This was the future once – Robert Wynn II Jonathan Mosse’s monthly look at freight development on the inland waterways.

DAVID Cameron’s first ever appearance at Prime Minister’s Questions, in 2005, was memorable for his quip about the then Labour Prime Minister Tony Blair that “he was the future once”.

But, on a less personalised note, he could equally well have been talking about Britain’s inland waterways, a point that was picked up and expanded upon at a recent Parliamentary Reception where Chris Lipscomb, operations director at Logistics UK, set the scene, summing up the role that the waterways have played in the past, highlighting their potential for the future.

“It’s a pleasure to join you at this Parliamentary Reception, hosted by Robert Wynn & Sons, who are a valued and awardwinning member of Logistics UK. They were named Water Business of the Year at the 2023 Logistics Awards ceremony.

“Logistics UK represents the logistics sector, including businesses, small and large, spanning coastal and inland waterways and other maritime, road, rail and aviation modes as well as many customers of freight services.

“We meet at an important time for our sector, with logistics increasingly understood to be a foundational enabler of growth and economic resilience, and key to delivering the government’s ambitious housing and clean energy targets.

in policy, investment “If there’s any part of our sector that and planning. If symbolises both we are serious the rich history and about improving the exciting future productivity, of logistics, it’s our decarbonising coastal and inland t ra n sp o r t and waterways. Britain’s ensuring resilience waterways helped in supply chains, we power the Industrial must make full use of Revolution. every mode available “Our canals were to us – including our built to link our rivers, canals and ports to our cities, to estuaries.” move the coal and steel that powered Recognition ou r e c o n o my , This parliamentary and to connect Above: Chris Lipscomb, operations re ception was communities with director at Logistics UK. PHOTO: TIM WEST an important the goods they opportunity to needed before motorways and mass railways recognise and celebrate the achievements even existed. of Robert Wynn & Sons, their partners and “Inland waterways and coastal shipping clients had made in the field of abnormal were the foundation of the logistics sector in indivisible load transport over the past two the UK – a sector that now contributes £185 decades. billion annually to the economy and employs It was also an opportunity to hear from 2.7 million people. leading figures within the inland waterway “Today, inland waterways move more than freight community, sharing their unique 40 million tonnes of freight a year, with the insights as to how inland waterways and River Thames handling over half of that, and coastal shipping can play a greater role within the UK’s domestic coastal shipping moves a truly integrated and sustainable national around twice that – taking pressure off our freight carrying network. congested roads, reducing carbon emissions Another beneficiary of the ingenuity of and serving as a vital alternative for heavy, Robert Wynn – the company’s two specialist bulky and critical goods. vessels, Terra Marique and Inland Navigator, “Yet, water freight often remains overlooked

Terra Marique on the Firth of Forth. PHOTO: JONATHAN MOSSE

able to operate in tandem, piggy-back fashion – was the former Dee Estuary harbour master.

Graeme Proctor started by saying that he thought the delivery of boilers from the Port of Mostyn to Shotton Paper Mill would never happen. He considered that the Dee was too shallow for the Terra Marique, the channel too narrow, mooring across the channel to unload, end on, too risky and difficult to achieve.

However, he confessed that step by step each issue was addressed, researched and a solution found. A survey of the Dee showed that there was sufficient depth of water and so they laid a few extra buoys to mark the deep-water channel. The channel was indeed wide enough for the Terra Marique to navigate safely and by carefully working out the tide times they were able to find a window of slack water long enough to unload the vessel.

Graeme thought the tidal window would allow one unit off, not several; however, Wynns informed him that all the units would come off in one move. And so it was that the cargo was delivered without a hitch.

In this instance Terra Marique was able to fulfill the contract alone, but where a load has first to be carried across a large tract of open water, and she is then unable to access the unloading point due to her size, her hold can be flooded and her smaller, loaded sister vessel, floated aboard. The process is then reversed once she gets as close to her destination as she is able: www.robertwynnandsons.co.uk/ our-fleet/terra-marique

Terra Marique and tug preparing to load at Clydebank. PHOTO: JONATHAN MOSSE

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Groups welcomed aboard at Llanymynech

By Lucy Wood

VOLUNTEERS at the cross-border canal wharf at Llanymynech welcomed a group of enthusiasts from Manchester and another from Stourbridge. The popular visitor centre offers short narrowboat trips on the Montgomery Canal on the border between England and Wales and is a popular destination for visitors to the area.

The volunteers who run the centre are keen for more groups to visit to find out about the wildlife and heritage of the area, as well as restoration work currently happening on both sides of the border.

Brenda Stevenson, of Stourbridge U3A Canal Group, said: “We had a wonderful day visiting the Montgomery Canal and we are particularly grateful for the welcome we

received from volunteers at Llanymynech Canal Wharf.

“We are one group within the U3A, which is an organisation for those no longer in full-time employment to engage in many activities – our motto is to ‘live, learn and laugh.’ We do this while increasing friendship with our colleagues.”

Ivor Caplan, also from the group, added: “Our visit to Llanymynech and Welshpool was a great example of a full day trip, during which we increased our knowledge of the industrial heritage of the area. We thoroughly enjoyed exploring the site and indulging in a trip on a passenger boat.”

Llanymynech Canal Wharf also recently welcomed a group from the Manchester branch of the Inland Waterways Association.

Graham Deakin, from Llanymynech Canal

Wharf, said: “Our narrowboat is moored on the historic canal which was built to carry lime and other goods to the Severn Valley area, Cheshire, Manchester and beyond. It was great to welcome 12 people from that great city and talk with them about canal developments.”

Larger groups can be accommodated by splitting into groups of 12, with one group on the boat while another visits Llanymynech Heritage Area or the visitor centre. Graham added: “Visits can be arranged to suit your group. The boat can accommodate two people who use wheelchairs. We can also offer light refreshments or arrange catering, if required.”

For more information, visit https:// themontgomerycanal.org.uk/ group-trips-at-llanymynech-canal-wharf

Members of the Stourbridge U3A Canal Group at Llanymynech Canal Wharf. PHOTO: MONTGOMERY WATERWAY RESTORATION TRUST

New public art for Welsh Harp/Brent Reservoir unveiled

By Lucy Wood

A BRAND-NEW public sculpture has been unveiled at Welsh Harp/ Brent Reservoir, incorporating heritage artifacts from the oncein-a-generation works which took place there last winter. It was unveiled by the Deputy Mayor of Brent, Coun Kathleen Fraser, alongside the artist, Phil Neal, and local schools involved in its design.

The sculpture, a metal boat with a sail in the shape of a harp, was inspired by old newsreel footage of powerboating on the Canal & River Trust-managed reservoir in the late 1920s – 30 years before its designation as one of the country’s first Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).

The boat is designed to be used as a bench and will be installed later this summer overlooking the water at Neasden Recreation Ground. Until then, it will be sited at Welsh Harp Sailing Club on the opposite side of the reservoir.

As well as fabricating the boat, mast, and sail, Phil used pulley wheels and chains – which until last year operated the sluices on the reservoir but had reached the end of their working life – to give the impression of the spray and movement of the boats in the newsreel footage.

The project, which was made possible by support from players of People’s Postcode Lottery, is part of the trust’s Community Roots programme in Brent. It will provide a lasting reminder of the works, which involved draining the reservoir of the equivalent of 400 Olympic-sized swimming pools of water to access apparatus located at the 19th century valve tower.

The works also required many thousands of fish to be rescued and temporarily rehomed elsewhere on the CRT’s network. The reservoir is being restocked with native species to protect its important ecosystem which supports internationally

Artist Phil Neal and his new sculpture. PHOTO: CRT important populations of birds including the great crested grebe and common tern.

Phil said: “I was totally inspired by the film of ordinary people, dressed in their Sunday best, with sometimes three outboard motors attached to their little boats, going hell for leather around a

figure-of-eight course on the Welsh Harp. The detail cut out of the sail interprets drawings of local flora and fauna by the local schoolchildren I worked with.

“When my sculpture is installed in its final location, I hope that local people will make the connection with the harp-shaped sail, and that they will appreciate the opportunity to sit on a boat in this amazing urban open space, looking out at the boats which sail there today.”

Ros Daniels, the CRT’s director for London and the South East, added: “These time-worn objects, which had reached the end of their working life, are more than simply scrap metal.

They are pieces of local history which tell the story of how the River Brent, fed by the Silk Stream and the Dollis Brook, was dammed to create the body of water we see here today, and which has played an important role in the life and leisure time of generations of local people.”

Fifth Blue Flag for historic Liverpool marinas

By Lucy Wood

The Royal Albert Dock and Salthouse Dock marinas in Liverpool have been awarded their fifth international Blue Flag in a row.

The Canal & River Trust, which looks after 36 hectares of waterspace at Liverpool’s South Docks, received the award after the marinas gained top marks for high standards in environmental information, management, safety, and boating services.

The water quality there is of the highest standard too and is home to an array of wildlife including thousands of blue mussels, hundreds of eels and, during the summer months, thousands of moon jellyfish.

The trust’s North West harbour manager, Andrew Goudie, said: “We are absolutely delighted to be awarded this prestigious international Blue Flag award for the fifth year in a row and to be the first marina owner in England to receive it. We are extremely proud of our colleagues, volunteers and partners who look after Liverpool’s South Docks to the very highest standard.

“Research has shown that being by water makes us feel happier and healthier, and this award really highlights how a waterspace can make a place come alive through water-based activities, daily exercise, or spending time looking at the array of wildlife.”

Sean Morrison, estate manager at Royal Albert Dock Liverpool, said: “This achievement reflects the dedication of everyone involved in upholding the dock’s environmental standards. We remain committed to preserving the beauty and biodiversity of our historic waterfront, and receiving this recognition for the fifth year in a row highlights the collaborative efforts that make the dock a safe and welcoming destination for all.”

Now in its 38th year, the International Blue Flag Awards scheme is the world’s most recognised accolade for beaches and marinas, which assure visitors that they are clean, safe, and meet the highest environmental benchmarks.

The Royal Albert Dock and Salthouse Dock moorings are situated on Liverpool’s world-famous waterfront, near to the Pier Head and city centre, and attract millions of visitors every year. Both marinas consist of finger and linear pontoons, with up to 60 vessels accommodated in Albert Dock and 46 visitor canal boat moorings, and 20 long-term moorings in Salthouse Dock.

It’s all cheers from a group of volunteers at Liverpool’s South Docks as they celebrate achieving a fifth Blue Flag award in a row. PHOTO: CRT

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Narrowboater attempts world records for children’s charity

By Lucy Wood

SEVENT Y-YEAR-OLD Chris Stanbury hopes to achieve not one, but two world records – by walking almost 2500 miles in five months and navigating canals for much of the journey.

Chris, who lives full-time on a pink-coloured eco-friendly electric narrowboat called Elektra, started his walk at the most westerly point of mainland England in early April.

When he reaches John O’Groats, the keen walker will turn around and walk back to Land’s End via a different and more direct route, reaching the Cornish landmark on August Bank Holiday Monday.

“I want to achieve something memorable following my 70th birthday and my walk aims to raise £70,000 for the charity Hope and Homes for Children, which will

help transform the lives of children currently in orphanages,” said Chris, who is also known as the Pink Hat Man because he is usually seen wearing one.

At the time of this issue going to press, Chris had already raised more than £16,000, with many donations being made by people he is meeting along his route. Hope and Homes for Children has been working to improve the lives of children in orphanages since 1994 and is supported by famous names including actors Dame Kristen Scott Thomas and Gary Oldman and broadcasters Natalie Pinkham and Nick Hewer.

The charity said that today, more than 5.4 million children are confined in orphanages, even though 80% of those are not orphans. The organisation is working in nine countries with

teams of skilled child protection professionals to get these children back to their families.

Chris has spent months planning his once-in-a-lifetime trip which could earn him two world records – one for being the oldest person to walk from Land’s End to John O’Groats and back again (known as LeJoGLe), and the other for being the fastest, as no one has claimed the record in the past.

The challenge involves him walking 1344 miles and a total ascent of more than 140,000 feet on his way up through Britain. His return walk will cover 1097 miles and a less challenging 82,033 feet of ascent!

The route will take in some iconic paths including the Cotswold Way, the Jubilee Way, Wales Coast Path, all 268 miles of the Pennine Way, the West Highlands Way and the entire

length of the Lancaster Canal, where his narrowboat is currently moored.

“By using long-distance paths and national trails, I am hopeful that most of the route will be reasonably well marked and well walked. That should mean less fighting my way through brambles and blocked footpaths!” he said.

Chris is keeping supporters updated via Instagram and YouTube. In one of his videos, he said. “I’ve met loads of interesting people again. It just keeps on happening!”

You can help Chris reach his target by donating online at www. justgiving.com/page/lejog70 You can follow his journey at www.instagram.com/ pinknarrowboat and www.youtube. com/@PinkHatMan, and track his progress at https://share.garmin. com/Elektra

Narrowboater Chris Stanbury at Land’s End as he embarks on his fundraising – and hopefully record-breaking – trek. PHOTO: ANDREW GALE

Summer fair steps back in time to mark 150th anniversary of Anderton Boat Lift THOUSANDS of visitors will attend a spectacular Victorian Fair on July 26 and 27 to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Anderton Boat Lift, the world’s first major commercial boat lift known as Cheshire’s Cathedral of Canals.

Raising the roof at this unique scheduled monument in Northwich, the Canal & River Trust will transport visitors back in time to 1875 at the free family festival, when historical activities and events, including Victorian games, circus entertainers, fairground organs and slot machines, jugglers, aerialists, stilt walkers, illusionists and circus workshops, will be on offer.

Guided tours and food will be available and for a small fee, guests can book one of the popular boat trips along the River Weaver Navigation or join a Lego ‘make and take’ workshop

The famous Anderton Boat Lift marks its 150th anniversary later this month with a spectacular Victorian fair. IMAGE SUPPLIED to create an exclusive 150th anniversary model of the boat lift to take home.

Jon Horsfall, the trust’s North West director, said: “We would love to see as many people as possible join us to celebrate this special anniversary. Anderton Boat Lift took the canal world by storm when it formally opened to boat traffic on July 26, 1875. It was a huge success and attracted distinguished engineers, scientists and

guests from all over the world to marvel at the ingenuity of its creation.

“Today it is an incredibly important part of our industrial heritage but preserving it as a working monument is increasingly a challenge. A major planned upgrade has been postponed due to spiralling costs and there has been a problem with the lift gates for the last six months. We are hopeful this will be sorted out by our

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charity’s engineers very soon and the boat lift can resume its task of transporting about 3000 boats a year between the two waterways. It would be wonderful if this could happen in time for its big birthday celebration.

“Whatever happens we will enjoy a fantastic anniversary celebration for a truly unique and muchloved historic structure.”

Designated one of the Seven Wonders of the Water ways, Anderton Boat Lift was designed by engineer Edwin Clark to connect the Trent & Mersey Canal with the River Weaver Navigation 50 feet below.

The lift has successfully carried boats between the

two waterways for most of its 150 years. It was converted to an electric system of pulleys and counterweights in 1908 but has only been completely out of action for a couple of decades in the 1980s and 1990s due to safety concerns about corrosion.

At the turn of the millennium, more than £7 million was raised to fund a major restoration and the boat lift began operating again on March 26, 2002, with an official opening the following year by King Charles, then Prince of Wales, on April 28, 2003. Since then, it has attracted thousands of visitors to Northwich to marvel at the incredible engineering masterpiece and

enjoy a trip aboard the Edwin Clark boat, named after the lift’s designer.

The Victorian Fair will be open 9.30am-4.30pm each day. During the main summer season, Anderton Boat Lift and visitor centre is open six days a week (closed Thursdays), 9.30am-4.30pm, offering four fascinating guided boat trips a day along the River Weaver Navigation.

There is a charge for boat trips, but entrance to the visitor exhibition, shop and café are free. During the rest of the summer season, visitors will be able to enjoy a host of other fantastic events, including the Steampunk Lift Off Weekender on September 20/21.

WHAT’S ON IN AUGUST

If you want your event listed in our free monthly What’s On section email your entry to editorial@towpathtalk.co.uk or use the events form at www.towpathtalk.co.uk/events Please check with organisers whether the event is going ahead before setting out on your journey.

Stafford Riverway link artefacts exhibition: The display of artefacts unearthed by Stafford Riverway Link volunteers at the Baswich Site is at Baswich Library (Lynton Avenue, Baswich, Stafford, ST17 0EA) until August 30.

Buckingham Canal Construction, conservation and green gym work parties on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and the second Sunday of each month. All equipment provided; please wear suitable clothing.

Contact: athina.beckett@ buckinghamcanal.org.uk

Aug 3 IWA Towpath Walks Society: The Regent’s Canal: King’s Cross-Granary Square-St Pancras. Meet at King’s Cross (meet by taxi sign, next to Pret a Manger) at 2.30pm. Normal charge £20; concessions, students and accompanied children aged 16 and under, £15; aged 8-15, £5; under-8s free.

Prior booking recommended.

Contact London Walks: 0207 624 3978 or london@walks.com Aug 17 IWA Towpath Walks Society: The Regent’s Canal: Little Venice-Camden. Meet Warwick Avenue at 2.30pm. Normal

charge £20; concessions, students and accompanied children aged 16 and under, £15; aged 8-15, £5; under-8s free.

Prior booking recommended.

Contact London Walks: 0207 624 3978 or london@walks.com Aug 24 IWA Towpath Walks Society: Four Hundred Years of the New River, Manor House (Finsbury Park, exit 6) at 2.30pm. Normal charge £20; concessions, students and accompanied children aged 16 and under, £15; aged 8-15, £5; under-8s free.

Prior booking recommended.

Contact London Walks: 0207 624 3978 or london@walks.com

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Free guides inspire days out by the water

By Lucy Wood

and well-being THE Canal & benefits of River Trust has spending time published a series of free regional by water. online Places to “Our canals provide free and Visit Guides. low-cost familyContaining friendly days maps, information out by the water, about visitor and the chance facilities and free to have some activities, the guides help people fabulous waterside get the most out experiences. Even of visiting more in towns and cities, than 100 different One of the free guides people can spot a variety of birds, sites throughout the CRT has produced. animals, insects the trust’s historic PHOTO: CRT and plants along navigable canal our canals and rivers. And from network.

From hidden gems and rural locks and bridges to tunnels and retreats to UNESCO World aqueducts, there are thousands of Heritage sites, iconic lock flights historic structures to marvel at.” and museums, last year more The eight free Places To Visit than 10 million people visited Guides cover London, South East, the charity’s 2000-mile network of South West, West Midlands, East canals and rivers to relax, picnic, Midlands, North West, Yorkshire exercise and more. and the North East, and Wales Nicky Lister, from the CRT, and are available to download said: “We want to encourage at www.canalrivertrust.org.uk/ more people to visit our canals, free-guide or to pick up at Canal rivers, reservoirs and docks & River Trust Visitor Centres – so they can experience the and turn to page 43 for a more physical and mental health in-depth look at one of them.

Accessibility improvements at popular Gilwern canal attraction

By Lucy Wood

THERE is better access to the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal at Gilwern this summer thanks to pathway improvements and an upgraded wheelchair-friendly picnic area.

Glandŵr Cymru, the Canal & River Trust in Wales, made the upgrades thanks to Monmouthshire County Council’s access improvement scheme, funded by the UK Government’s shared prosperity fund.

The works are part of the community-led celebrations for this year’s 225th anniversary of the canal, the construction of which began near Gilwern in 1796.

David Morgan, development manager for Wales at Glandŵr Cymru, said: “As a charity, we want to make sure that everyone can enjoy our canals, and the improvements to the pathways and picnic site

The upgraded wheelchair-friendly picnic area at Gilwern. PHOTO: GLANDŴR CYMRU at Gilwern will enable all canal lovers to reap the benefits of spending time by water.

“We are grateful to Monmouthshire County Council for supporting this project and our Brecon 225 anniversary celebrations, which will see us mark this special anniversary for the northern section of the Monmouthshire &

Brecon Canal throughout the year with a series of community events.”

The Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal, known affectionately as the Mon & Brec, began life as two separate canals – the Monmouthshire Canal and the Brecknock & Abergavenny Canal.

Although the two were joined in 1812 at

Poinymoile, the Brecon 225 celebrations mark the anniversary of the completion of the northern Brecon Canal 12 years earlier, when the first cargo of coal reached Brecon Basin on Christmas Eve 1800. To discover more, see future issues of Towpath Talk and visit https://canalrivertrust. org.uk/wales

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Methley Bridge Boatyard and Chandlery in Castleford. PHOTO: SALLY CLIFFORD

From land to legacy

Jeff and Mandy Dowsett have been fortunate enough to turn their boating life into a profession, as Sally Clifford found out.

JEFF DOWSETT has built and converted many boats over the years. Perhaps his proudest achievement, of the 30 or so he has produced, was the record-breaking boat which has provided a floating home for him and wife Mandy for nearly 20 years. “I built our boat which is the biggest boat ever built on land,” explains Jeff, a semi-retired design engineer.

Measuring 23.4m long (80ft) with a 4.95m beam, the waterways cruiser is six inches longer than the previous record-breaking craft – a fishing boat built in Castleford – according to Jeff. Christened Dick Stockwin after the man who taught Jeff for his commercial Navigation Captain’s ticket, the couple’s impressive floating home took three years to complete and was scratch built mainly on land.

Mandy explains the substantial houseboat, boasting three bedrooms and two bathrooms among its split-level living spaces, was 40 tonnes when it went in the water and weighed 120 tonnes once complete. Moored on the River Calder in West Yorkshire, its location is perfect as the couple are just a few

Dick Stockwin, the couple’s beautiful floating home.

PHOTO: MANDY DOWSETT

Jeff and Mandy Dowsett, who run Methley Bridge Boatyard and Chandlery. PHOTO: SALLY CLIFFORD

paces from their workplace.

Walking to work fits perfectly with the couple’s environmental consciousness. Living among a menagerie – two donkeys, nine geese, two Muscovy ducks and chickens as well as the surrounding wildlife, a kingfisher and swans – Jeff and Mandy are keen to protect the environment and have introduced some recycling initiatives on the one-acre site which is also home

to Methley Bridge Boat Yard and Chandlery which they established in the late Eighties.

Based on a historic wharf dating back to the 1930s, the Castleford site was latterly used as an electricity substation before coming into the couple’s possession in the late Eighties. For Jeff, acquiring the site came out of necessity. “I had a German Second World War torpedo boat and I needed to do some work so I decided to build a boatyard here.”

Eventually they bought the site, after initially leasing it, and, after securing planning permission, were able to turn the redundant substation into the chandlery which Mandy runs.

This go-to shop stocks everything to meet boaters’ needs, but with limited space to stock everything they want to sell, the couple came up with an ingenious recycling idea. Outside the shop is The Jumble Shed – an upturned craft that would have been scrapped after becoming surplus to requirements at the end of its working life. “It was a fisheries protection cruiser, an oyster bed protection boat in its day,” explains Jeff.

Originally the boat had a wooden hull when it arrived at Methley Bridge Boatyard 20 years ago.

Jeff built a new hull and, after several owners, he bought it back and with its sailing days over he repurposed it into The Jumble Shed.

The Jumble Shed, an upturned conversion of a former fisheries protection cruiser. PHOTO: SALLY CLIFFORD

Inside the on-site club house Jeff built at the boatyard and chandlery. PHOTO: SALLY CLIFFORD “I needed a second-hand department because the shop isn’t big enough,” says Mandy.

She explains boaters often donate items they have accumulated to The Jumble Shed. As well as making it more affordable for customers to purchase, it also helps to raise charitable funds that go towards the Royal National Lifeboat Institution.

Helping others is at the heart of the couple’s enterprising ethos.

“There is a myriad of boats built here by do-it-yourselfers,” says Jeff.

“We have never been driven by commercialism. We are there to let people achieve their dream – it is more of a cottage industry.”

To foster on-site community spirit, Jeff spent three years building the clubhouse where tables and chairs are neatly set out within walls decorated with photographs of Jeff’s boat builds and past and present boaters there over the years.

Moored next to their floating home is a 1960s former British Waterways dredger which Jeff acquired four years ago. “When it came to us there

was 60 tonnes of stone in it. We took the interior out and walled it into units,” says Jeff, explaining another self-purposing project.

He installed a lift into the 65ft long by 16ft wide craft enabling easy access to the 30 storage units within for boaters to store surplus equipment. Jeff has had a hand in many of the boat builds on the yard.

Inspired by his railway interest, the stand-out ‘Stanier’ bearing the works no 73831, is a 38ft former Springer. Previously used as a narrowboat down South, the boat is now under new ownership.

“It was built to look like a train,” says Jeff.

Walking around the site, seeing other boat builds in progress, it is evident the couple are keen to pass on the enjoyment they experienced in their own floating projects. “It makes you proud. That is one of life’s pleasures – turning something into something usable. It’s like those TV programmes where they convert something and give it a new lease of life. That is what we are doing,” says Jeff.

The boat’s original ship’s wheel is displayed inside what is now The Jumble Shed. PHOTO: SALLY CLIFFORD

www.towpathtalk.co.uk August 2025

RCR celebrates 25 years

By Phil Pickin

MEMBERS, past and present, along with dignitaries, staff, families, contractors, suppliers, the local community and boaters, joined in the celebrations for River Canal Rescue’s 25th anniversary.

They marked the occasion with an outdoor event held at the Stafford Riverway Link site, close to RCR headquarters.

Stafford Borough Mayor, Coun Jenny Barron and her consort, Alderman Ray Barron, attended and were said to be impressed with the ‘essential’ service provided by managing director Stephanie Horton and her team to the boating community. Other attendees included Sir Gavin Williamson CBE, MP for Stone, Great Wyrley and Penkridge, and local councillor Ann Edgeller, who were said to be equally surprised by the ‘unique’ 24/7, 365 days a year’ breakdown and emergency assistance service RCR offers.

Visitors to the June 8 event enjoyed five live bands and took advantage of the numerous craft, food and drink and prize draw stalls provided by RCR, local companies and roving traders, a number of whom were moored on the nearby Staffs & Worcs canal. Activities for

Wicked Wood roving traders Kate and John with Mayor Jenny Barron and consort Ray Barron. PHOTO: SUPPLIED children included an inflatable slide and visits from the police, fire service and St John Ambulance.

The event also provided visitors with an opportunity to learn more about narrowboat engines from RCR’s Key Diesels team, as well as pick the brains of engineers on all things boat related.

In her opening speech, Stephanie explained how the company launched in June 2000, after her

partner, CEO Trevor Forman, had a recurring dream to provide breakdown cover for boats and even dreamt the name and logo.

From 100 to 20,000-plus members, Trevor, a diagnostic mechanic and Stephanie, an electro-mechanical power engineer, were joined by friend and mechanic, Pete Barnett (now director/chief rescue co-ordinator).

In the first year, they supported

100 members. Today, RCR has around 40 staff, supporting some 20,000 members, and in 25 years, Stephanie estimates the company has responded to more than 60,000 callouts. She comments: “Little did we envisage that 25 years on we would have made such an impact and driven so much change.” In addition to its core service, RCR also offers maintenance and electrical courses as well as servicing. The company also helps boaters manage insurance claims and access specialist marine service providers, supplies new and refurbished engines, and has developed an offline mapping tool, Waternav, as well as the environmentally friendly bilge filter, Bilgeway.

At a time when industry is finding it a challenge to recruit engineers, RCR has done a considerable amount of work to train the next generation, and, as a result, it is now one of the UK’s top 100 apprenticeship employers. This is in addition to awards for customer service, business growth, innovation and pollution prevention. During the anniversary celebrations, Stephanie touched upon the nearby fireworks factory fire in 2014, which gutted their premises, leaving staff working from a temporary office

until the new HQ opened in 2016.

She emphasised: “We would not be here without the hard work and dedication of our staff and the incredible loyalty of our members… many of them are here today and have been with us since we started.”

Hearing about the 25-year celebration, Matthew Symonds, head of boating at the Canal & River Trust, said: “River Canal Rescue is one of the key organisations working on our waterways. When boaters run into unforeseen incidents, RCR, like the fourth emergency service, is on hand to help when it’s most needed. This is one of the many reasons why it is one of the few companies pre-authorised by us to undertake recoveries. We look forward to continuing our strong relationship as it celebrates this major milestone.”

All proceeds from the 25th party will go to the Stafford Riverway Link – a charity working to connect the Staffs & Worcs Canal with the rivers Penk/Sow, enabling navigation on to Stafford town centre. After the anniversary celebrations, Stephanie confirmed that events like this could become a more regular event, saying: ”There was an overwhelming request from members and locals to run the event again next year.”

METHLEY BRIDGE

BOATYARD & CHANDLERY 35 years of service and helping boaters achieve their dreams!

WELL STOCKED CHANDLERY AT COMPETITIVE PRICES BOATYARD, STORAGE, MOORINGS ‘JUMBLE’ SHED, FULL OF PRE-OWNED BARGAINS INBOARD & OUTBOARD ENGINE SALES

Registered with the Recreational Craft Directive from 1996.

Leeds Road, Castleford, WF10 1QR TELEPHONE: 01977 735400 www.methleybridgechandlery.co.uk Email: info@methleybridgechandlery.co.uk

19

20

August 2025

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Heritage under the hammer

where even section not closing until the most basic April 2009. of transport The canal, which projects seem incorporates five locks, remains busy carrying interminable in construction The nameplate and cabside numberplate from Manchester commercial traffic to this despite the Ship Canal Railway locomotive No. 57 that sold for a day, and is also open to a v a i l a b i l i t y combined price of £780 at auction on May 17. nameplate, for £200. narrowboats and other leisure craft subject to Work on building the 36-mile of modern PHOTO: TALISMAN RAILWAYANA certain requirements canal, which links Manchester e q u i p m e n t with the Irish Sea, started in 1887, that would have been unheard in that brought in all the construction and conditions. and on opening in January 1894 the Victorian era. materials and equipment using 180 A second item of memorabilia One of the key elements of locomotives and 6000 trucks and featuring the canal was a 1915 Port it was the largest river navigation in the world. The seven years of building the canal, which at its wagons, and this remained in use of Manchester plan of the canal construction is extraordinarily peak involved no fewer than 17,000 for freight and passenger trains after which sold for £26 at a Paperchase quick compared with Britain today, navvies, was the temporary railway the canal was opened, with the final Auctions’ sale in mid-April coupled with a circa 1920s Port of London from Westminster to the Sea publication. The same auction also featured a Bradshaw’s Canals and Navigable Rivers of England and Wales handbook of inland navigation by Henry Rodolph de Salis that fetched £60, and a circa late-1920s LNER Clyde and Loch Lomond Sailings illustrated guide with fold-out map that went under the hammer for £19.

Any artwork by Frank Mason (1875-1965) invariably attracts bidders’ interest, and this was illustrated when a BR Western Region carriage print of a variety of sailing craft at Dartmouth by this highly respected marine artist sold for £90 at a Great Central Railwayana auction on June 7.

The prices quoted exclude buyer’s premium of 15% (+ VAT) at the Talisman and Great This BR carriage print by Frank Mason featuring a selection of sailing craft at Dartmouth sold for £90 at auction on June 7.

Central auctions, and 12.5% at the PHOTO: GREAT CENTRAL RAILWAYANA Paperchase auction.

Geoff Courtney reports on prices achieved by canal and inland waterways memorabilia at three specialist auctions in recent months, two of which turned the spotlight on the Manchester Ship Canal.

THE HIGHEST price was £580 at a Talisman Railwayana auction on May 17 for nameplate Dunkirk from an 0-6-0T that operated on the Manchester Ship Canal’s railway system from new in 1913 until being scrapped in 1966, while cabside numberplate 57 from the same engine sold immediately after the

A bid of £19 at auction in mid-April secured this LNER Clyde and Loch Lomond guide.

PHOTO: PAPERCHASE AUCTIONS

La Perle Noire launched with electric propulsion

By Phil Pickin

THOSE of us who regularly attend boat shows will undoubtedly have seen the Torqeedo stand at many of these events over recent years.

Within the leisure marine sector, the company has carved out a niche supplying electric outboards for a range of inflatables and RIBS. But the Munich-based company has a much wider product range that caters for both commercial and recreational boat users and produces both inboard and outboard electric motors. And in April, the company announced the launch of one of its latest projects to transport tourists along the Seine.

La Perle Noire is said to be the first of a new generation of electrically powered tourist ferries to be launched in Paris and Torqeedo has equipped the vessel with a fully integrated electric-hydraulic propulsion system. The project has been undertaken in co-operation with the Breton specialist for hydraulic propulsion technology, Hydro-Armor.

Designed to offer electricpowered river cruises on the Seine,

La Perle Noire has been designed to accommodate up to 60 people.

However, the main attraction of this new vessel has to be that La Perle Noire represents a new generation of sustainable vessels in Paris. The company feels that it demonstrates that luxury and sustainability can seamlessly coexist, according to Matthias Vogel, head of the global market, customer and service division at Torqeedo. He said: “Our aim was to enable our guests to enjoy up to two hours of cruising on the Seine without the need to recharge. To achieve this, we equipped La Perle Noire with six batteries with a total capacity of 480 kWh. Paired with the HydroArmor hydraulic system, this set-up provides an efficient and practical pathway towards low-emission propulsion for ships of this size.”

The vessel weighs 70 tons, is 22.5 metres long and is powered by three high-performance outboard motors developed by Hydro-Armor using Torqeedo’s Deep Blue 100i motors and six Deep Blue Battery 80s. The electrical energy generated by the Torqeedo motors is used to build up hydraulic pressure to drive

the propeller. In addition, a bow thruster powered by another Deep Blue 50 motor ensures maximum manoeuvrability in the narrow passages of the Seine. All power for both propulsion and onboard systems is supplied by the six Deep Blue Battery 80s with a capacity of 80 kWh each. The system is complemented by a 40m² solar roof, which provides additional energy

during sunny hours to further increase the range.

La Perle Noire is in fact a prototype of the French company Seine Alliance, which specialises in the development of innovative projects in the field of river and maritime transport, with a particular focus on sustainable tourism and environmental technologies. The Seine Alliance

La Perle Noire in all her glory. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

is said to be committed to the ecological transformation of urban waterways, including pioneering propulsion concepts and solutions.

With many of the UK’s top tourist hotspots having rivers running through them, many of which offer river trips and tours, it would be good to see them look into the benefits of using electric vessels like La Perle Noire.

www.towpathtalk.co.uk August 2025

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22 MARINAS & MOORINGS

August 2025

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Settle in. Switch off. Stay warm.

Love where you moor, this winter...

Find your perfect mooring now.

re We A

ndly!

Dog Frie

Available at selected Lakeland Leisure Marinas.

Barton Marina - Tattenhall Marina - Roydon Marina Village - Saul Junction Marina - Great Haywood Marina

MARINAS & MOORINGS 23

www.towpathtalk.co.uk August 2025

TPIF

Award winning, family run marina on the River Nene in Earls Barton.

Secure your annual mooring with us and receive a one day RYA course on the scenic River Nene, on your own boat!* *T&C’s apply

t: 01604 812057 e: info@whitemillsmarina.co.uk

www.whitemillsmarina.co.uk *For full terms and conditions, please visit our website

INFO@FAZELEYMILLMARINA.COM CALL 01827 215703 • UPGRADED ANTI-SLIP STEEL JETTIES • FULLY SECURE & GATED WITH 24/7 CCTV • LINEAR & BANKSIDE MOORINGS • EXTREMELY WELL-CONNECTED TO THE CANAL NETWORK • NEW ACCESSIBLE TOILETS & SHOWERS • ELECTRIC CAR CHARGING POINT • FUEL & SMALL CHANDLERY SALES • OUTSIDE SEATING & BBQ AREA • CLOSE TO LOCAL AMENITIES • COMMUNITY LIVING SPACE • ELSAN / PUMP - OUT • LAUNDRY • STORAGE • WIFI

MOORINGS AVAILABLE NOW!

USE CODE TOWPATHTALK FOR 10% OFF*

FAZELEY MILL MARINA, COLESHILL ROAD, TAMWORTH B78 3SE | WWW.FAZELEYMILLMARINA.COM *NEW MOORERS ONLY, FIRST YEAR ONLY, VALID UNTIL END OF 2025. OTHER T&CS MAY APPLY.

24 MARINAS & MOORINGS

10% OFF new residential or leisure moorings for boats up to 40ft using code ‘TOWPATH’ We are open seven days a week Café, marina shop & chandlery We also have our own Village Green – a place to sit, relax and take in the beauty of the marina High-specification shower/toilet facilities, elsan disposal point Dry dock maintenance and repairs Pump-out station, diesel, electricity, gas, coal, logs & sticks, water point Located on the Prees Branch of the Llangollen Canal Offer valid until the end of July 2025

August 2025

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ONE OF LEICESTERSHIRES HIDDEN GEMS AND A HAVEN FOR PEACE AND QUIET www.leicestermarina.co.uk Berthing available for leisure moorers Please enquire for prices:

0116 2606166

or office@raynswayproperties.co.uk

Alders Lane, Whixall, Shropshire SY13 2QS Marina Enquiries: 01948 880420 Email: enquiries@whixallmarina.co.uk www.whixallmarina.co.uk Subject to terms and conditions

Northampton Marina The ideal location for exploring East Anglia’s Waterways Town centre location in park surroundings

Call us on 07867 580129 to arrange a visit or to make an enquiry.

Office hours: Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm Saturday & Sunday 10am to 4pm www.visitanglianwaterways.org www.northamptonmarina.co.uk

The marina offers you: • Diesel • Gas • Coal • Pump out and Elsan • Laundrette • Shower/Toilet Block • Paint bay

Leicester Marina, Pinfold Road, Thurmaston LE4 8AS

MARINAS & MOORINGS 25

www.towpathtalk.co.uk August 2025

Hill Farm Marina

South Stratford Canal

A marina that offers you a choice

A family owned marina set in rural Worcestershire, but minutes away from the M5, gives all boaters great travel opportunities.

The 238 berth marina is located on the Droitwich Canals, ideally situated for great cruising albeit for a short break or long holidays. It is within easy walking distance of the Spa Town of Droitwich.

The View Restaurant is now fully open www.theview-eat.co.uk

• Enjoy private access to a traditional 200 acre beef and sheep farm • Dogs run free in designated areas.

• Watch the changing seasons, the wildlife and the animals on the farm • Enjoy the complete peace, freedom and tranquillity of being in the countryside • Access some great lock free cruising for day trips, weekend or longer voyages • Easy access to motorway network, buses and trains • Onsite laundry, Hairdressers • Members benefit with a discount at our popular Restaurant

It goes without saying....

• A secure place to moor your boat, and park your car • Luxurious showers, communal areas, pump out and fuel etc.

• Free unlimited WIFI • Electricity and water connections • Pump-out, fuel, coal, wood and gas available

Please watch the progress www.hillfarmmarina.co.uk email info@hillfarmmarina.co.uk or call David on 07971 118953

SHAKESPEARE MARINA

This marina offers you ■ Security for you and your boat ■ Full length jetties, in a non flood environment ■ First class facilities, including luxury shower block and launderette ■ Shop and Chandlery

■ Elsan, Pumpout, Diesel, Water ■ Boat Blacking options available ■ Hardstanding, Service Area, and Cranage Pad facilities ■ Calor Gas Stockist ■ Caravan Motorhome CL site

• Flood proof moorings • 250 berths located on river Avon • 10 mins walk fromStratford-upon-Avon • Waters & elec hook ups to each berth • Free wi-fi • Laundry • Showers • Fuel sales • Pump out • Lakeland Leisure boat brokerage

T: 07967 461057

E: shakespeare@land-water.co.uk

CAEN HILL MARINA

www.droitwichspamarina.co.uk Tel: 07970 626807 or 01905 317250

• 248 berths located on Kennet & Avon canal • Near to Devizes Wiltshire • Lakeland Boat Brokerage

T: 01380 827062

E: caenhill@land-water.co.uk

NORTHWICH QUAY

Droitwich Spa Marina Ltd Hanbury Road, Droitwich Spa, Worcestershire WR9 7DU info@droitwichspamarina.co.uk Tel: 01905 317250 Mobile: 07970 626807 www.droitwichspamarina.co.uk

• 50 berths located on river Weaver • Centre of Northwich, Cheshire

T: 07967 461038 E: northwich@land-water.co.uk

26 MARINAS & MOORINGS

August 2025

FRADLEY MARINA 07941 167 087

Private, tranquil moorings nestled in the Staffordshire countryside just a stone’s throw from historic Fradley Junction on the popular Trent and Mersey Canal.

• 60 full length moorings • Water and 16amp electric • Modern shower block • Car Parking • Electric Gates • Workshop & Slipway • Elsan • CCTV • Laundry • Fuel • Nationwide Boat Sales brokerage Our workshop and slipway is taking bookings for blacking • painting • servicing • surveys • repairs • new boat fit out • interior remodelling • furniture & cabinet making To contact the workshop please call Fradley Narrowboats on 07542 824262 or email fradleyboats@gmail.com

www.fradleymarina.co.uk |

fradleymarina | 07941 167 087

Set in beautiful countryside at the junction of the River Severn & the River Avon in Gloucestershire. Flood protected moorings, water and electric at berths, fuel, pump-out, and staff on hand 7 days a week. Chandlery, gantry crane and work area for blacking.

MOORINGS AND BOAT SALES For viewings and information please call 01684 293737 or email: sales@tewkesbury-marina.co.uk

WWW.TEWKESBURY-MARINA.CO.UK Follow Us

Discover Our Idyllic Retreat

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Blisworth Marina Cruising mooring - Go cruising for 3 months and get 20% discount Pay for 2 years and get a discount of 10% on 2nd year Widebeam berths available

For Boat Sales please visit our website Blisworth Arm NN7 3FG www.blisworthmarina.co.uk info@blisworthmarina.co.uk 01604 879827

www.towpathtalk.co.uk August 2025

2 B EDRO O M S | 2 B A TH RO O M S 7 7 5 S Q FT

A V A IL A B L E N O W

MARINAS & MOORINGS 27

R E FIN M AL H AI O N ME IN G

£310,000

YOUR FLOATING HOME IS READY — JUST IN TIME FOR SUMMER Imagine waking up to the gentle rhythm of water, panoramic lake views, and the rolling Malvern Hills beyond.

At Waterfront Living’s exclusive floating home development, this dream becomes your everyday.

Set on the tranquil banks of the River Severn, Upton Lake offers a rare blend of architectural elegance and natural beauty.

Designed for year-round comfort, each floating home features lightfilled open-plan living, two spacious bedrooms including a master with en-suite, and all the touches of a modern residence.

Whether you’re looking for a full-time home, a holiday retreat, or a unique investment opportunity, this fully furnished home is ready and waiting.

With nine already sold on phase one, this is your last chance to join this exclusive floating home community on the River Severn— just in time for summer.

Step into something extraordinary. Book your private viewing today.

UPTON LAKE & MARINA, EAST WATERSIDE, UPTON-UPON-SEVERN, WR8 0PB www.waterfront-living.com | info@waterfront-living.com | 01933 829 940

28 MARINAS & MOORINGS

August 2025

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www.goolemarina.co.uk Email: info@goolemarina.co.uk Tel: 01405 763985

Goole Marina, The Timber Pond, Dutch Riverside, Goole, DN14 5TB

Services:

•Dry Dock •Slipway •Welding •Blacking •Shot Blasting •Engine Servicing •Solar Panel •LPG Gas Safe work •Joinery Services •New Boats •Boat Brokerage •Electrical Work •Painting

Facilities:

•Water/ Electricity •Bottled Calor Gas supplier •Pump out •Laundry room •Heated toilets, Shower room with under floor heating •Licensed bar with outside seating area •Postal address for live aboards •Chandlery •Diesel

ails for det e t i s b e ee w ase s e l p le, ailab v a e servic Brokerage

Goole Marina is located in a basin connecting to the Aire and Calder Canal and close to the commercial port of Goole in the East Riding of Yorkshire. The marina provides an ideal base for cruising the waterways of Yorkshire as well as giving easy access to the Humber Estuary and the North Sea. We have a marina basin to accommodate 150 boats of various lengths & widths.

We can accommodate all types of craft from Cruisers to Narrowboat and Barges.

All types of moorings, garden moorings to floating pontoons, which can be accessed 24hrs a day.

Our new Marina Café, Coffee Dock, is now open to the public.

Open Monday – Saturday 9am until 3pm.

Everyone welcome!

INFO@MANCETTERMARINA.CO.UK CALL 01827 215716 MOORINGS AVAILABLE NOW • NEW ANTI-SLIP STEEL JETTIES • FULLY SECURE & GATED WITH 24/7 CCTV • FINGER, LINEAR & CANALSIDE MOORINGS • QUIET, RURAL LOCATION WITH NATURE TRAIL • CLOSE TO LOCAL AMENTIES

• FUEL & SMALL CHANDLERY SALES • CLOSE TO LOCAL AMENITIES • ELSAN / PUMP - OUT • SERVICE AREA • LAUNDRY • STORAGE • WIFI

MANCETTER MARINA, QUARRY LANE, ATHERSTONE CV9 2RD | WWW.MANCETTERMARINA.CO.UK

MARINAS & MOORINGS 29

www.towpathtalk.co.uk August 2025

Sherborne Street, Birmingham B16 8DE 0121 455 6163 / 0121 454 5367 www.sherbornewharf.co.uk or email@sherbornewharf.co.uk

Moorings available, special rates for new customers Prime moorings in the centre of Birmingham’s Canal system. Secure site, with all services available, and easy access to the lively city of Birmingham. Just a 2 minute walk to the fantastic night life of restaurants, clubs and bars.

Mooring in Sherborne Wharf is quiet and peaceful, with long-term residents who have established a life here in the Marine. We have been here in Birmingham for over 30 years.

Services are based on the main line outside the round house and Distillery Pub, with a small chandlery, coal, diesel, gas and pump out available on a daily basis. Please note pump outs are not allowed after 11.30am.

Boat services, we have a dry dock that can be hired for blacking, surveys or mechanical work required. We have contact for boat surveys, gas inspections and repairs.

CONTACT US ON 0121 455 6163 FOR ANY ENQUIRIES

At the heart of the Shropshire Union

Touring park Touring Park

Holiday Lodges Glamping Wagons

Long and short term moorings

www.overwatermarina.co.uk

Coole Lane, Audlem, Cheshire, CW5 8AY telephone 01270 812677

fully serviced moorings engineering workshop cafe

30 MARINAS & MOORINGS / PRODUCTS & SERVICES

August 2025

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EAST MIDLANDS BOAT SERVICES - WILLOW MOORINGS Moorings Available for cruisers and narrowboats at £4.60 per foot, per month.

Residential moorings available at £325.00 per month for Narrowboats only.

Powered slipway for boats up to 40 foot and a second slipway for small boats. Slipway can be hired for DIY work or we offer services for Antifouling, Painting and General Servicing. We also have a Boat Safety Examiner on site.

Located on the A6, adjacent to The Otter Public House.

01509 672385 www.eastmidlandsboatservices.co.uk Kegworth, DE74 2EY

HA HAREFIELD AREFIIELD M MARINA ARINA

Bridge 180, Grand Union Canal, Harefield UB9 6PD Tel: 01895 822036 muskmarine@hotmail.com www.harefieldmarina.co.uk Facilities include:- Pump out - Chandlery - Boat sales/ - Slipway brokerage (up to 65ft) - Covered wet dock - Engine inboard/ outboard repairs - Water and electric - gas and coal points - Diesel

200 secure, non residential rural moorings in secluded countryside setting 5 mins from M25/M40.

One days cruising from the Thames.

SELLING

YOUR BOAT?

We’ll find you the right buyer at the right price.

✔ 10 boat sales offices ✔ Complete marketing package ✔ Competitive commission rates ✔ Expert sales teams

Contact our expert teams 7 days a week: Hartford Marina, River Great Ouse

01480 274707 | hartfordboatsales@tingdene.net

Pyrford Marina, River Wey

01932 343275 | pyrfordboatsales@tingdene.net

SELL YOUR

BOAT WITH US

PRODUCTS & SERVICES 31

www.towpathtalk.co.uk August 2025

PLEASE NOTE:

01827 313334

info@elitefurnishings.co.uk

Our standard curtain lining includes a Teflon finish for added protection from moisture and soiling

NARROW FURNITURE FOR NARROWBOATS

Kate Boats

One stop shop for your boat!

The same skills that keep our hire boat fleet running reliably and looking good can be available for your boat.

• Blacking • Welding • General engineering • Engine servicing • Engine replacement • Painting from touch up to a complete repaint • Electrical repairs and installations • Gas safe engineer on site • Heating repairs and replacement • Internal repairs and refit • BSS and hull surveys organised

Paint slots available for 2025

www.kateboats.com 01926 492968 (Stockton Top Marina, Warwickshire)

32 PRODUCTS & SERVICES

FULLY SERVICED CRUISING AND RESIDENTIAL MOORINGS AND FULL BOATYARD SERVICES • Iver (Slough Arm) and Northolt (Paddington arm) • Secure sites with private parking • Delivery of gas, solid fuel and diesel direct to your boat • Electricity, water, elsan and pump out • Showers and laundry • Chandlery • Mechanical, electrical, and carpentry work undertaken • Craning, grit blasting and blacking • Two part epoxy hull treatment • Fuel polishing service

sales@high-line.co.uk 01753 651496 www.high-line.co.uk THE BOATYARD MANSION LANE, IVER, SL0 9RG

August 2025

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NARROWBOATS AND WIDEBEAMS FOR SALE IN WEST LONDON FOR SELLERS • Free moorings • Sales location with established footfall • Open 6 days / week • Trade Plates for unlicensed craft • Pre sales preparation and repairs FOR BUYERS • Free guidance and advice • Comprehensive handover • Secure clients bank account • ABYA qualified brokerage staff • Industry standard documentation PRIVATE BUYER’S SERVICE • If you are buying privately, we can offer the following services: • Advice on all aspects of purchase • Provision of documentation • Secure Clients bank account • Bespoke service – as much or as little as you want, priced accordingly

kb@vcmarine.co.uk 01753 652502 / 07860 480079 www.vcmarine.co.uk

PRODUCTS & SERVICES 33

www.towpathtalk.co.uk August 2025

Only LeeSan truly specialise in toilets Toilets, Tanks, Hoses, Clips, Gauges, Deck Fittings, Vent Filters and everything you need plus Advice & Guidance The most dependable heads on the water...

Narrowboat sofas, sofabeds and dinette seating More images on our Facebook page

Simple & Stylish Space Saving Solutions for Narrowboats! sales@leesan.com T: 01295 770000

Dry dock available for full 7 day bookings.

Now booking for 2025!

Dryy dock services: ▪ DIY dry dock – free pressure washing included.

▪ Electricity included ▪ Clean off service available; ▪ Blacking service available ▪ Anode fitting ▪ Checking stern gear ▪ Hire for surveys ▪ Docking Monday to Monday ▪ Stay aboard your boat.

Marina Services Coal – Chandlery- Diesel- Calor Gas Pump out – Engine Servicing – Boat repairs- Temporary mooring Second hand narrowboats purchased for cash, please call for details.

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Monday to Thurday- 9:30am – 5:00pm Closed Friday, Saturday and Sunday

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British Made anodes available from stock

Chimneys from £30 in stock Black or Stainless steel.

Fire accessories International Intertuf 16 & two pack products

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34 PRODUCTS & SERVICES

August 2025

www.towpathtalk.co.uk

ALUMINIUM WINDOWS

Kellett Engineering Company Limited

Jasper Street Works, Queens Road, Halifax HX1 4NT Since 1946 Kellett have been designing and producing a wide range of quality framed aluminium windows for boats, trains, locos and many other varieties of commercial, industrial vehicles and buildings.

Please contact us, see below for details:-

www.kellettwindows.co.uk

sales@kellettwindows.co.uk Tel: 07445 425228 Victoria Inman (Managing Director)

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PRODUCTS & SERVICES 35

www.towpathtalk.co.uk August 2025

REFLEKS - BOAT “HEATERS”

60Years of “REFLEKS” Sales have exceeded 100,000 worldwide (Commercial Ships to Leisure Boats) We have supplied all of the UK and many Exports - including several systems to Antarctica.

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36 PRODUCTS & SERVICES

August 2025

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DO YOU LIVE AFLOAT? Are you worried about the future of your lifestyle?

We are the only membership association set up, in 1963, to protect the interests of live-aboard boaters. We need your support to be able to continue our work. So join us, in promotion, development, representation and protection of our chosen lifestyle. Interested?

See more information on our website www.rboa.org.uk. or telephone 0330 057 7180 to find out how to join and get involved in the safeguarding of the future freedom of living afloat.

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TURN TO

PAGE 53 TO

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PRODUCTS & SERVICES 37

www.towpathtalk.co.uk August 2025

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38 PRODUCTS & SERVICES

August 2025

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CLEANING’S A PLEASURE WITH MIRACLE LEISURE! LADDER-MATE

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Over 100 tillerpins in stock visit www.tillerpins.co.uk www.miracleleisureproducts.co.uk e: sales@miracleleisureproducts.co.uk Telephone: 01902 686569 or Dawn 07909 086868

Get ready for winter with a Bubble Stove

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TRADLINE ROPE AND FENDERS

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For current offers see

www.tradline.co.uk Tradline Rope & Fenders, Braunston Marina, Northamptonshire NN11 7JH

www.harworthheating.co.uk 01302 742520 contact@harworthheating.co.uk

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01386 768500

A One bedroom reverse layout narrowboat with an extended cruiser stern, Upgrades on this boat include a 42hp engine, an L shape dinette and a cross over bed, A mooring is available if required subject to T's and C's

PRODUCTS & SERVICES / INSURANCE & FINANCE 39

www.towpathtalk.co.uk August 2025

HERO – Hydrogen Electric drive for boats • Near silent • Integrates with solar • Quayside refuelling • Modular design • Diesel-free boating

HERO gets you home when the sun stops shining nick@hydrogenafloat.com Hydrogen Afloat Ltd, Mortimer House, Theale, Reading RG7 5BX Reg 13756478

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40 INSURANCE & FINANCE

Explore UK Narrowboat Insurance Get a quote

Features are subject to exclusions and limitations. GJW Direct® is a registered trademark and a trading name of Ripe Insurance Services Limited which is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, Firm Reference No. 313411. Registered office: The Royals, Altrincham Road, Manchester M22 4BJ. Registered in England and Wales No. 04507332.

August 2025

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41

www.towpathtalk.co.uk August 2025

Top six rural retreats Places To Visit guide

p42 Tech: Motors and batteriesp44 p43 Win an engine service p44

Tingdene Group expands UK presence with acquisition of Farndon Marina TINGDENE Group has completed the acquisition of Farndon Marina, near Ne w a rk , adding more than 300 berths to its growing national marine portfolio.

This marks an important milestone for Ti n g d e n e Marinas as it expands its footprint to 11 marinas in the UK and establishes a presence on the River Trent for the first time.

Strategically located with n a v i g a b l e access through Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire, Farndon Marina further strengthens Tingdene Marinas’ waterways network and underscores

Tingdene Group has completed the acquisition of Farndon Marina, near Newark, adding more than 300 berths to its growing national marine portfolio.

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

its commitment to providing highquality facilities and services to the UK’s boating community.

Tingdene Group managing director Ian Collier said: “Farndon Marina is a strong strategic fit for

our group, enhancing both our geographic reach and our customer offer. We are delighted to add such a well-regarded and well-established marina to our portfolio and look forward to working

Boat firms stuck on advanced adhesives TYPICALLY, the boating industry has relied on nuts and bolts for fixtures, sealing, and repairs, but modern boating is starting to utilise adhesives. We’ve spoken to Andy Sabine, an adhesive expert from Eurobond Adhesives, to learn how advanced adhesives can be used in the marine industry and why you should use them.

Why use adhesives rather than nuts and bolts?

Adhesives are now the preferred choice for many manufacturers in different industries. The advancement in chemistry means that some adhesives are now stronger than welding, removing the need for drilling holes which can weaken the structure or risk damaging materials. By eliminating metal fasteners, you are also reducing the risk of corrosion. Adhesives are going to offer a much lighter weight option than traditional fixings, helping to keep weight down to

Bonding expert, Andy Sabine, explains advanced adhesive use in modern boating.

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

improve efficiency.

Where can adhesives be used on canal boats?

Adhesives can be used all over the canal boat - suitable for use above and below the water line, externally and internally, and even in the engine bays. When chosen correctly, they are going to help by providing great watertight seals,

with the team on site to support berth holders and develop the marina further.”

Previously managed by the Ainsworth family for more than 59 years, the site offers a wide range of amenities, including modern washroom facilities, secure parking, fuel, pump out, chandlery, boat servicing and repair, a slipway, and a restaurant.

Paul Ainsworth, the son of the founder who has managed the business for the past 16 years, added: “This has been more than just a business – it’s been part of our family’s identity for decades. I am delighted to hand over the helm to another family-owned

preventing leaks, and protecting against water ingress. They are a great choice in terms of the flexibility they can provide as well, accommodating the natural flexing and movement of boats.

Can you use adhesives for boat repairs?

Yes, is the simple answer.

However, there are plenty of things to think about when choosing the correct adhesive, such as where it’ll be used, if it will be in constant contact with water or sunlight, and how strong the bond needs to be. Eurobond’s range of adhesives can be used in many ways: to repair holes in the hull under water, or repair a gasket on the engine, there is always a solution!

Won’t adhesives degrade or be affected by the water/environmental factors?

Good question! In short, some do and some don’t.

It again depends on where it is used and what it’s used for. For example, you need to make sure the chemistry in the adhesive is compatible to

group that shares our passion for the waterways and our dedication to serving the boating community. I’d like to thank everyone who has supported us over the years and look forward to seeing Farndon Marina thrive as part of the Tingdene Marinas network.”

This latest acquisition extends Tingdene Marinas’ offering of marina berths, boat sales and customer services into a key boating region and is in line with Tingdene Group’s vision to provide an integrated national network of marinas that deliver consistency, value and community throughout the UK.

the environment and the job it’s required to do. It is always recommended to speak to a technical expert first to make sure you are using the right product.

A quick five-minute conversation with the right person can work wonders.

What products would you recommend?

There’s a wide range of adhesive products available for use in the marine industry. At Eurobond we offer MS polymers, adhesive tapes, and engineering and structural adhesives to suit all requirements.

By w orking in partnership with product designers and production and manufacturing teams, it allows us to fully evaluate specific projects. Understanding the performance criteria needed means we can select the most appropriate adhesive to meet your exacting demands.

For more information about adhesives in the marine industry, contact Andy Sabine directly on 07792531341 or visit www. eurobond-adhesives. co.uk

British Marine has launched two new accredited training courses to enhance water safety awareness and emergency responses for those working close to the water’s edge. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

British Marine launches new water safety courses

BRITISH Marine has launched two new accredited training courses to enhance water safety awareness and emergency response for those working close to the water’s edge across the non-tidal inland and tidally affected marina sectors.

The Inland Water Safety Management and Marina Water Safety Management courses are designed to equip individuals with the knowledge and practical skills to operate safely within three metres of water – whether from a riverbank, dockside, or aboard a vessel.

Both are delivered by leading industry trainers at Birmingham and Midland Marine Services Ltd, partnered by Atlantic Crest for the tidal marina course, and are accredited by the Institute of Search and Technical Rescue.

These one-day modular courses are ideal for those in a wide range of roles, including workboat, passenger and trip boat crews, marina and boatyard staff, customer-facing personnel, rangers, wardens, and anyone responsible for safety and emergency preparedness in a waterside environment.

The Inland Water Safety Management course is tailored to those working in the non-tidal inland waterways sector, outside the remit of the DEFRA Flood Rescue Concept of Operations and CDM Regulations. It provides a grounded understanding of water-related risks, incident prevention strategies and emergency response, including practical rescue techniques and decisionmaking under pressure.

The Marina Water Safety Management course is designed specifically for staff working in tidally affected marinas and harbours, offering the same robust training but adapted for the unique challenges posed by coastal environments, including changing water levels, reduced visibility and dynamic tidal conditions.

Manj Mahey, head of training at British Marine, said: “Working near water brings unique challenges and risks, and it is crucial that everyone – from marina staff to boat crews – is prepared with the right training. These courses have been developed in response to feedback from our members and represent a proactive step in raising safety standards in the industry. Whether you are on the riverbank or in a tidal marina, knowing how to prevent incidents and respond effectively can save lives.”

Each course is led by experienced instructors with realworld backgrounds in maritime operations, risk management and emergency response, ensuring that participants gain both theoretical knowledge and practical, actionable skills.

Course information: One day, £230 plus VAT (British Marine members); £345 plus VAT (non-members). Institute of Search and Technical Rescue accreditation. Contact Vicki: training@ britishmarine.co.uk or for more info visit: www.britishmarine.co.uk

42

August 2025

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Top six bank holiday weekend rural retreats

01606 833668 Middlewich, Cheshire Puffer Steamboat Holidays Cruise the sea lochs and canals of Sco otlan nd’ss Wesst Coast in an oriigin nal steam powered Clyyde Pu uffe fffer.

Tel: 07780 936407 Visit: savethepuffer.co.uk

TREAT YOURSELVES TO A

romantic Narrowboat Break Skippered Narrowboat Charters An Overnight Gourmet Experience on the English Waterways

BRITAIN’S beautiful 3000-mile network of inland waterways takes canal boat holidaymakers through some of our best-loved countryside. There are places to moor up in quiet backwaters for the perfect rural retreat, and the chance to visit historic country pubs and farm shops along the way.

Drifters (www.drifters.co.uk) offers the choice of 500 boats from 40 locations in England, Scotland and Wales. Ahead of the August bank holiday, it has published a guide to its top six bank holiday weekend rural retreats.

Boat through the Warwickshire countryside to Napton

From the Drifters canal boat hire base at Stockton on the Grand Union Canal in Warwickshire, it takes just over two hours to cruise to the village of Naptonon-the-Hill. Here, alongside the Oxford Canal, a herd of water buffalo can often be seen grazing. Napton Village Stores sells products made at the local Buffalo Farm, including burgers, sausages, meatballs, steaks and ice cream. It also sells other local produce in its bakery and delicatessen, including veg boxes and home-made meals, cider and cakes.

Navigate through Cannock Chase to Fradley

On a weekend break from Great Haywood on the Trent & Mersey Canal, boaters can cruise through the Staffordshire countryside to Fradley Junction and back, passing through the Cannock Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Before heading out, the Canalside Farm Shop at Great Haywood is perfect for stocking up on local produce. It sells a variety of food sourced from the area’s farms, including sausages (made using free-range pork), fruit, vegetables, free-range eggs and baked products. The journey to Fradley and back travels 25 miles, through 10 locks (five each way), and takes about 12 hours.

Cruise through the Brecon Beacons to Llangynidr

Summer Season

Off-Season

£850

£550

May to September

October to April

Isolated from the main canal network, the beautiful Monmouth & Brecon Canal runs through the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park and offers an escape to the country with incredible mountain views. On a weekend break from Goytre

Wharf, near Abergavenny, boaters can cruise lock-free to Llangynidr and back. The route goes through a series of small villages with historic pubs, including the Lion Inn at Govilon, deep in the Welsh countryside.

Boat through the Leicestershire countryside to Stoke Golding

From the Drifters base on the Coventry Canal at Springwood Haven, it takes about five-and-a-half hours to cruise to the historic village of Stoke Golding. The route takes boaters through the Leicestershire countryside along the lock-free Ashby Canal. Stoke Golding has one of the most beautiful churches in England, and there’s a choice of pubs, including the White Swan.

Before heading out, boaters can stock up on local produce at the Poplars Farm shop and café, near Nuneaton, selling fruit, vegetables, honey, cheese, eggs, poultry and jams.

Navigate through the Shropshire countryside to Chirk

On a weekend break from Blackwater Meadow on the Llangollen Canal, boaters can cruise through the Shropshire countryside to Chirk. The journey there and back takes about 11 hours and there are only two locks to pass through each way. Boaters travel across the stunning Chirk Aqueduct, crossing the border from England to Wales, then through Chirk Tunnel to Chirk Marina, where boaters can moor up to visit the National Trust’s Chirk Castle up on the hill. There’s a café at the castle and also a choice of canalside pubs, including The Bridge at Chirk Bank.

Cruise through the Staffordshire countryside to Shebdon

From the Drifters boat hire base at Brewood on the Shropshire Union Canal in Staffordshire, it takes about five hours to reach the small village of Shebdon. The journey to Shebdon takes holidaymakers through 13 miles of scenic countryside and woodland and a series of small villages and hamlets, including Wheaton Aston with its Hartley Inn, Gnosall with its Boat Inn and the Junction Inn at Norbury Wharf. Canal features encountered along the way include Stretton Aqueduct, Wheaton Aston Lock, Cowley Tunnel, Shelmore Embankment and Grub Street Cutting. The journey there and back takes about 11 hours.

Prices are for two people (one couple), and are inclusive of all taxes, meals, drinks (including wine and spirits). Your trip starts in North Kilworth early afternoon, and finishes late afternoon the next day at Market Harborough (off-season) or Foxton Locks (summer season). Transport back to North Kilworth is included.

CALL PAUL - SKIPPER & CHEF

07930 150 888

WWW.DRAGONFLYCANALCRUISES.CO.UK

Llangollen Canal, near Blackwater Meadow. PHOTO: DAVID DIXON – CC BY-SA 2.0

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Enjoy a great day out by the water this summer in the South East The UK’s largest canal charity Canal & River Trust has published a free guide, Places to Visit in the South East, with maps, information about visitor facilities and free activities, and ways to get the most out of visiting the region’s canals and rivers this summer.

LAST year, more than 10 million people visited the charity’s 2000-mile network of canals and rivers to enjoy walking, cycling, running, boat trips, fishing, wildlife spotting, feeding ducks, watching boats go through locks, paddleboarding, museum visits, sampling food and drink at a canalside café or pub, and marvelling at some of the world’s finest examples of working industrial heritage.

Ros Daniels, Canal & River Trust’s director for the South East, said: “Our canals provide free and low-cost family-friendly days out by the water, and the chance to have some fabulous waterside experiences this summer.

Even in city centres, people can spot a variety of birds, animals, insects and plants along our canals and rivers. And from locks and bridges to tunnels and aqueducts, there are hundreds of historic structures to marvel at.

“We want to encourage more people to visit our canals, rivers, reservoirs and docks so they can experience the physical and mental health and well-being benefits of spending time by water and find out more about the work of our charity to care for the nation’s world-famous historic network.”

The Canal & River Trust’s free South East guide provides information on the following locations:

Aldermaston Wharf

Once a busy place for loading and unloading canal cargoes, Aldermaston Wharf on the Kennet & Avon Canal is now a picture of tranquillity and the perfect place to explore the Berkshire countryside. Visitors can watch boats going through Aldermaston Lock, chat with the trust’s volunteer lock keepers, have a canalside picnic while watching out for kingfishers, herons, coots and swans, and enjoy a traffic-free cycle ride to Woolhampton, well-known for its coaching inns.

Aylesbury Canal Basin, Waterside Exchange Street

Aylesbury Canal Basin, at the end of the Aylesbury Arm of the Grand Union Canal, is a great starting point for waterside walks and bird watching. Visitors can enjoy a trafficfree walk or cycle ride along the towpath to see two rare staircase locks (1.5 miles/2km), stroll to Circus Field Basin to view the colourful narrowboats, take a boat trip along the canal, explore the historic market town of Aylesbury, and relax with a waterside coffee at the café.

Aldermaston Wharf. PHOTO: PHILIP PANKHURST - CC BY-SA 2.0 waterways champion Tom Rolt, enjoy a trafficfree cycle ride to Cropredy (4.7 miles/7.7 km), visit Banbury Museum, and walk to Banbury Cross in the centre of town.

Berkhamsted, Canal Fields, Broadwater

Once a busy inland port and the centre of boat building activity, today the historic market town of Berkhamsted on the Grand Union Canal in Hertfordshire makes for a fascinating day out. Visitors can stroll along the towpath to see boats going through the locks and the Canadian totem pole that marks the site of an old boat building yard, explore the ruins of Berkhamsted Castle, which was built by one of William the Conqueror’s knights, enjoy a drink and bite to eat at one of the canalside pubs, and visit the nearby Ashridge estate woods.

Bishop’s Stortford, Jackson Square Car Park

The River Stort winds its way through Bishop’s Stortford and is a great route for country walks. Visitors can wander along the towpath and enjoy the wildlife and watch boats going through the locks, partake in a a canalside picnic overlooking Waytemore Castle Mound, head south to Rushy Mead Nature Reserve, which is a haven for reedbed species, and pause for a drink in one of the waterside cafes or pubs.

Kintbury, Station Road

Once home to a busy industrial canal wharf, the historic village of Kintbury on the Kennet & Avon Canal is now a picture of tranquillity.

Visitors can take a horse-drawn boat trip along the canal, enjoy a stroll alongside and watch boats going through Kintbury Lock, set

Newbury Wharf, Wharf Street

An inland port back in the day, Newbury on the Kennet & Avon Canal in Berkshire is a great place to spend time by the water. Visitors can enjoy a boat trip, relax with a picnic in Victoria Park, visit the Kennet & Avon Centre in the wharf to find out about the history of the canal, stroll along the towpath to Town Bridge, and walk or cycle along the towpath to Thatcham Nature Discovery Centre (0.8-mile/1.2km).

Oxford, Worcester St Car Park

Just minutes from Oxford City Centre, the Oxford Canal offers a place of peace and tranquillity.

Visitors can discover the many quirky bridges, including the historic Rewley Road Swing Bridge, look out for the now closed Oxford boatyard where Lyra meets ‘gyptians’ in Philip Pullman’s The Northern Lights, and follow the towpath to the Thames Path and continue to Christ Church Meadows, once of the most famous river landscapes in the world.

Reading, The Oracle Riverside car park The Kennet & Avon Canal sweeps through Reading’s town centre, and County Lock is the perfect place to relax and watch boats go by. Visitors can talk a walk along the towpath to where the River Thames joins the canal, relax with a coffee and watch the boats go by, look at the floating reedbeds in Abbey Quarter installed to increase biodiversity, visit the burial place of King Henry I at Reading Abbey Ruins, and follow the Heritage Walk from the Oracle Shopping Centre.

Thrupp, Canal Yard, Canal Road

The peaceful hamlet of Thrupp lies on the Oxford Canal and is a great place for watching boats and family walks. Visitors can take a stroll along the towpath past the charming rose-covered canalside cottages, look at the ‘drawbridge’ lift bridge, enjoy a waterside picnic, visit one of the canalside pubs or cafés, and follow the towpath to the historic village of Shipton-on-Cherwell (0.6 miles/1km).

Banbury

The Oxford Canal passes through the historic market town of Banbury, offering the chance to connect with history and nature. Visitors can take a boat trip along the canal, stroll along the towpath to find a sculpture, a poem on a lockgate and a bridge named after

off on a traffic-free bike ride, have a waterside picnic or visit one of the village pubs.

Tring Reservoirs, Marsworth Kennet Navigation in Newbury.

PHOTO: DES BLENKINSOPP - CC BY-SA 2.0

The four reservoirs at Tring were built to supply the Grand Union Canal and are now a Site of Special Scientific

Interest (SSSI). The waters of the reservoirs attract many plants, fish and insects, and large numbers of breeding, wintering and migrating birds. As well as watching boats go through the locks, visitors can choose from three way-marked circular walks to follow, discover bird hides to sit in and watch swifts and common terns during the day or pipistrelle bats hunting for insects in the evening, and visit a canalside pub or café.

Weston Turville Reservoir, World’s End Lane

Nestled in the Buckinghamshire countryside, Weston Turville Reservoir, a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), is a wildfowl wonderland and the perfect place to get close to nature. Visitors can spot teal, tufted duck and bittern, follow the 1.2-mile (2km) pathway around the reservoir, get a licence to go fishing, and watch the boats from Aylesbury Sailing Club.

The Canal & River Trust’s free ‘Places to Visit in the South East’ guide is available to download at www.canalrivertrust.org.uk/ free-guide

The Tudor Arms Situated adjacent to Patch Bridge on the Gloucester/ Sharpness Canal

Serving Real Ales and Home Cooked food all day 14 Guest Rooms suitable for one night or more and ideal for visiting friends and relatives

01453 890306 enquiries@thetudorarms.co.uk www.thetudorarms.co.uk

The Leigh Arms • Moor at Bridge 208 on the Trent & Mersey Canal • Real Ales served • Children’s play area • Traditional British and Authentic European Dishes The Leigh Arms, Warrington Road, Little Leigh, Northwich, Cheshire CW8 4QT. Tel 01606 853327

www.leigharms.co.uk

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Electric motors and batteries

WITH pressure to cut carbon emissions and rising fuel prices, more boaters are considering switching their diesel or petrol-driven engines to a greener electric alternative.

While this is a good option, it’s important to be aware that many systems on the market are high voltage and could compromise safety, especially if they do not conform to European Commission standards.

The infrastructure for pure electric motors is also extremely poor in the UK, so choosing the right system to match usage and cruising habits is key. So, what solutions are available?

River Canal Rescue talks us through the options…

Pure electric

These boats require a plug in to charge, and a lack of infrastructure can quickly result in vessels running out of power and becoming stranded or only having short cruising ranges, which defeats the object of having a boat.

Parallel hybrid

depleted batteries, there’s a generator.

Generally, this system is more efficient, however, it does require a specialist generator to supply the correct charge for the battery bank (you can’t just buy a suitcase-style generator). If your batteries are low, you’ll need to stop and recharge using the generator, which can impact your cruising range.

Battery banks

Electric boats need battery banks to power their motors, and different types of batteries have contrasting efficiencies and power (something we’ll cover in another article).

The same applies to charging systems and battery management systems – vital for electric boats.

Every element must be balanced according to the individual boat and your requirements. One size does not fit all, so research what your boat needs, and what propulsion system and supporting battery arrangement is right for you.

Synchronous energy

These electric boats have a normal diesel engine, plus an electric engine and batteries (the diesel engine is only there to recharge the batteries once they’re depleted). This is a good option for vessels that want to benefit from green energy but do not want to be restricted by range or the need to stop and recharge.

This is where separate banks are used for propulsion and domestic house supply. Generally more useful for liveaboard boats, it’s key to ensure the propulsion and house banks are physically separated.

If not, you risk the house bank depleting the propulsion bank.

Serial hybrid

Asynchronous energy

These electric boats utilise an electric motor with a battery bank, but instead of a diesel engine to recharge

This is where only one bank of batteries is used for both the house and propulsion requirements

When making any modifications to your boat, it’s important to talk to the experts and know exactly what’s the best option for your particular vessel. PHOTO: SUPPLIED – useful when there’s a balanced use of energy. However, there’s a risk if you use too much battery in one area, it can deplete the bank and leave power for the other use unavailable.

Lithium batteries

Becoming popular, but a lack of understanding and knowledge about charging and temperature requirements mean DIY installations could potentially place vessels and owners at risk.

These batteries comprise a set of four cells, so typically 3.2V to make the 12V. They need to receive a consistent charge (unlike lead acid which can tolerate variable charging from an alternator) and can only accept charge between temperatures of 0C-45C. Lithium batteries react violently to exposure to damp air and therefore pose a risk of explosion which will occur if not managed correctly.

When they explode, they’re nearly

Win an engine service

TO CELEBRATE River Canal Rescue’s 25th anniversary, managing director Stephanie Horton is giving away prizes every month throughout the year. For August, one Towpath Talk reader can win an engine service, including labour and parts, worth £260.

The service is available from September to March, when an RCR engineer will come to you and undertake: • Engine oil change up to 5l • Fuel filter replacement • Oil filter replacement • Gear box oil top up* • Antifreeze check* • Battery check – starter cold test and charge state • Fan belt check and adjustment* *Replacement is undertaken at an additional cost for parts and labour.

To win this prize, simply email your name, address, and phone number to TTcompetition@rivercanalrescue. co.uk, writing August service win in the subject line, and you’ll be entered into the prize draw.

Entries close at 23.59 on 31/08/25 and the winner will be drawn on 01/09/25. The winner will be notified within 14 days of the close of entries. The draw is final, and no correspondence will be entered into. Entry is free and open to residents of the UK aged over 18. Only one entry permitted per person, there is no cash alternative, and the prize is not transferable. By entering, you agree to be bound by all the rules and agree that your name and county may be released if you win.

For August, one Towpath Talk reader can win an engine service, including labour and parts, worth £260. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

impossible to control as they suffer from ‘thermal runaway’ – not even submersion in water will extinguish them. Due to these factors, a battery management system is imperative to manage and reduce risk associated with these batteries.

Most off-the-shelf products from large suppliers provide packages and, in some cases, supply an electric motor with lithium batteries; including all the features needed to ensure safe operation. It’s important to note that most insurance companies will not cover vessels with lithium batteries installed; some will if they’re installed by an ‘authorised installer,’ so checking and updating your insurance policy is imperative.

Switching over

We are receiving more enquiries about replacing engines, indicating that boaters are keen to make that switch. However, people must do

their research. Some options include inefficient imported electric motors requiring higher voltages to work efficiently and traditional high voltage 230V or three-phase motors that rely on 48V or higher battery packs. When used with an inverter, they exceed the Low Voltage Directive threshold, potentially putting boats and owners in danger.

The Government’s Low Voltage Directive says 72V and below is considered safe and 50V and below is ultra-safe. There are rumours among some high voltage electric motor suppliers that they are pushing to have this value reduced, i.e., high voltage would be classed above 24V. If your vessel was constructed after 1998, then changing from a diesel to electric engine requires a Post Construction Assessment. Currently, there’s only one company undertaking this – HPi Verification Services, and at a cost of up to £6000, it’s potentially the most restrictive element to moving to a greener solution.

Safety with What3Words OVERWATER Marina and Holiday Park, located near Audlem, has taken a significant step in improving safety for its moorers and visitors by introducing What3Words location stickers in the marina, touring park and glamping site. This measure is designed to help emergency services locate individuals quickly and precisely in the event of an incident.

Each electrical bollard and facilities point in the marina and the caravan and glamping site is now fitted with a clearly visible sticker displaying its unique What3Words address, a simple, three-word code that pinpoints an exact 3m-sq location anywhere in the world. In the event of an emergency, users can quote the three words to emergency services to provide an accurate and immediate location, helping to reduce response times and improve outcomes.

“Safety is of paramount importance to us,” said marina

manager David Johnson. “By using What3Words, we are giving our berth holders, caravanners, glampers and visitors a simple yet powerful tool to ensure they can be found quickly in an emergency.

Our rural surroundings are beautiful, but with the diverse layout and size of the marina, it’s not always easy to explain your location. This solves that problem instantly.”

In addition, the Overwater Marina team is currently fundraising for an external defibrillator cabinet. While a defibrillator is already available on-site, the new cabinet would make the device accessible 24/7 to the public and emergency services.

“We are committed to going the extra mile when it comes to our customers and health and safety,” added marina owners Janet and Angus Maughan. “Installing an external cabinet will make our defibrillator accessible at any time of day or night, potentially saving lives in critical situations.”

www.towpathtalk.co.uk August 2025

45

46 BROKERAGE

August 2025

Trust us. did .

Lisa "The whole experience was made easier by Aquavista.

I felt like they represented my best interests at all times."

Selling your boat? We’re here to be your trusted guide and represent your best interests in the sale of your boat. Being proactive in finding you the right buyer, explaining the whole process clearly and keeping you up to date along the way is what you can expect.

We’re part of the UK’s largest marina operator – so you can trust that we know the market and how to get the best deal for you.

Trust us to sell your boat. Call 01159 077 406 or email us at boatsales@aquavista.com aquavista.com/boat-sales/sell-my-boat

Let’s go

www.towpathtalk.co.uk

BROKERAGE 47

www.towpathtalk.co.uk August 2025

Alvecote Marina Narrowcraft Boat Sales – Dry Dock - Repairs

The No.1 choice for hull blacking - Base plate blacking now available.

BOATYARD SERVICES

• Engine and Heating Servicing • Breakdown Callout and Repairs • Gas, Electrical and Plumbing Specialists • BSC’s & Safety Examination Work • Engine Sales and Installation • Traditional boat painting • Specialists in Historic engines and craft • Boat Brokerage • Diesel Tank Scrubbing and Bug Removal.

MOORINGS

• Marina Moorings • Long and short term Moorings • Coal, Gas, Diesel & Pumpouts

DRY DOCK

• Hull Blacking • Base Plate Blacking • 2 Pack Epoxy Coating • Microbiological Hull Treatments • Anode Replacement • Cabin Painting • Welding • Surveys

BOAT OF THE MONTH

DRY DOCK BOOKINGS AVAILABLE – BOOK YOUR BASE PLATE IN FOR BLACKING TODAY!

RUFUS 3

£47,500

60ft, 1992, Jonathan Wilson, Trad narrowboat with Beta Tug engine. Good Hull survey from Feb 2024.

SLIMLINE TONIC

£59,950

2019, 50ft, Trad by Steve Ellis Boatbuilders.

Beautifully fitted out and combines the comfort and luxury of modern boating

TA-RA-A-BIT

£29,950

SARAH JANE

£64,950

SIGRID

£39,500

DILL

£29,950

50ft, 1997, Charlie Fox. Cruiser stern. Just arrived, be the first to see.

TRANQUILLITY

57ft, 2003 Liverpool Boats Trad, stylishly refitted 2023. Isuzu Marine engine, Victron energy inverter.

£29,950

42ft Trad 4 berth, 1981 by Colecraft. Excellent condition, Hull shotblast and 2 pack epoxy, BSS expires: 11/2025. 1 owner from new very reluctant sale!

SOLD

CAVALIER

£15,000

Just Arrived. 45ft, 1988, Eggbridge, traditional, BMC 1500, 2 berth, project boat. Full internal pictures and spec coming soon, now available for viewing.

48ft, 2007, Viking Afloat. Just Arrived, very well maintained craft with a versatile 2 + 2 berth layout. Ideal family boat or for a couple.

Nimbus Narrowboats, 1997 Trad, Beta Marine 1505 Engine, 2 Berth.

VISIT US AT Alvecote Marina, Robeys Lane, Alvecote, Tamworth B78 1AS Tel 01827 898585 narrowcraft@alvecotemarina.co.uk Tuesday - Saturday 08.30 - 17.30. Sundays & Mondays by appointment

For latest info and offers, follow us on twitter @AlvecoteMarina ON THE COVENTRY CANAL - ONLY 5 MINS FROM J10 M42 BY ROAD

www.AlvecoteMarina.co.uk

48 BROKERAGE

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T: 01926 813757 E: boats@calcuttboats.com www.calcuttboats.com Tomlow Road, Stockton, Southam, Warwickshire.

CV47 8HX BECKY BOO

£43,000

ATTICA

£48,000

SOLD 1995 57-ft built by Eastwood Engineering, Powered by a BMC1.8 and PRM150 gearbox. BSS until May 2027

1999 55ft – Union Mills Boats Hull and Fitout with some owner Fit out laterly Powered by a Beta Marine 43 engine with a PRM150 Gearbox. BSS Until March 2027.

PATIENCE

SHALK

£38,500

UND

£40,000

FER F O ER

1997 47-ft Davenshire Boat with owner fitout. Powered by a Beta 1505 and PRM gearbox. Boat safety until Feb 2029.

2001 55ft – Liverpool Boats Hull and Fitout Powered by a Beta Marine BV1505 engine with a PRM Gearbox.

BROC MOR

£25,000

1984 56ft Hancock and Lane powered by a BMC 1.8 engine with a PRM150 Gearbox. New Boat Safety with Sale.

Calcutt Boats Training Centre Now offering the RYA inland Helmsman, First Aid, and many more RYA and Bespoke courses. g.calcuttboats.com for more information Visit www.training

Marine Engines Specialists in servicing, rebuilding and spare parts for BMC. Our respected quality re-manufactured BMC 1.5 and and 1.8s marinised for keel cooling If it’s BMC we have what you need Call us now!

A range of high quality re-built gearboxes are also available.

Reliable central heating and hot water for boats of any size

www.dieselheating.com

ORDER ONLINE FOR NEXT DAY DELIVERY

www.calcuttboatsshop.com

Open 24/7 for all your BMC and Hurricane spare parts and all your other chandlery needs online.

BROKERAGE 49

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DRAGON BOAT 54' £149,950 INC VAT | pyrfordboatsales@tingdene.net

DRAGON BOAT 55'

£156,000 INC VAT | thamesboatsales@tingdene.net

WIDEBEAMS, BARGES & NARROWBOATS

AQUALINE BOATS 60' X 11'

LIVERPOOL BOATS 60' X 12'

VIKING CANAL BOATS 60' X 10'

'A New Chapter' thamesboatsales@tingdene.net

'Hydra’ thamesboatsales@tingdene.net

£109,950 INC VAT

£115,000 INC VAT

£110,000 INC VAT

TYLER WILSON 60' X 12'

LUXE MOTOR DUTCH BARGE

SAGAR MARINE MINI-LUXE REPLICA

LUXE MOTOR DUTCH BARGE

'Brigantine' uptonboatsales@tingdene.net

'Heliox’ thamesboatsales@tingdene.net

Lady Macbeth thamesboatsales@tingdene.net

'Nautical Tramp’ thamesboatsales@tingdene.net

£119,950 INC VAT

£174,950 INC VAT

£129,950 INC VAT

£129,950 INC VAT

MEL DAVIS 70'

COLECRAFT 60' SEMI TRAD

COLLINGWOOD 60' X 10'

BIG FISH NARROWBOATS 60' X 12.7'

'Time Out 3’ pyrfordboatsales@tingdene.net

‘Linnea' pyrfordboatsales@tingdene.net

'Mia' hartfordboatsales@tingdene.net

‘Big Fish' hartfordboatsales@tingdene.net

£99,950 INC VAT

£94,950 INC VAT

£124,950 INC VAT

£92,450 INC VAT

COLLINGWOOD HOXTON 70' X 12' 03 'Flo' thamesboatsales@tingdene.net

'Pol Roger' pyrfordboatsales@tingdene.net

£169,950 INC VAT

CONTACT US 7 DAYS A WEEK: 01933 551622 | BOATSALES@TINGDENE.NET | WWW.TINGDENEBOATING.COM

LOOKING TO SELL YOUR

WIDEBEAM, NARROWBOAT or DUTCH BARGE?

Contact one of our specialist widebeam & narrowboat sales offices today:

Hartford Marina, River Great Ouse | 01480 274707 | hartfordboatsales@tingdene.net Pyrford Marina, River Wey | 01932 343275 | pyrfordboatsales@tingdene.net

50 BROKERAGE

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David Mawby Ltd NOTTINGHAM LANE, OLD DALBY, LEICESTERSHIRE, LE14 3LX T: 07721 382619 E: davidmawbyboats@gmail.com W: www.davidmawbyboats.co.uk

Quality River and Canal Motor Cruisers are available to view by appointment at our Leicestershire indoor showroom. Over 20 years experience and 2,500 boats sold.

VIKING 26

£18,995

Centre Cockpit, Length 26ft, Beam 6ft10ins, Built 1990, 6 Berths in 2 cabins, cooker, toilet, shower, hot and cold water system, NEW CREAM LEATHERETTE CUSHION COVERS WITH BLUE PIPING, NEW SIDE AND HEADLININGS, NEW FLOOR CARPETS, NEW CANOPY, 12 and 240 volts electrics, powered by a Honda 15Hp 4 stroke outboard engine, Bsc 2029, all original gelcoat (not painted), hull and superstructure fully polished, new antifouling, includes new mooring ropes, etc, FREE DELIVERY within 250 miles or local mooring available,

VIKING 22

£19,995

Length 22ft, Beam 7ft8ins, Built 1994, 4 Berths, cooker, fridge, shower, toilet, hot and cold water system, 12 and 240 volts electrics, solar panel, NEW CANOPY, CREAM LEATHERETTE CABIN CUSHION COVERS WITH BLUE PIPING, Bsc 2029, powered by a Yamaha 20Hp 4 stroke outboard engine, all original gelcoat (not painted), hull and superstructure fully polished, new antifouling, etc, FREE DELIVERY within 250 miles or local mooring available

New Viking Cruisers

Show Boats Now Available to view at our indoor showroom.

Prices From £32,995.

Including Outboard Engine PLEASE CALL FOR LATEST OFFERS

ORKNEY SPINNER

£3,995

13ft Fishing boat with cuddy, Built 2000, 2 wheel galvanized trailer with new wheel, bearings and suspension units, recent new fitted cockpit cover, fishfinder, oars, etc, powered by a Mercury 4Hp 4 stroke outboard engine (New 2018), serviced Feb 2025, all original gelcoat, hull polished and new antifouling, ready to go.

VIKING 32

£25,995

Length 32ft, Beam 6ft10ins, Built 1991, 6 Berths in 2 cabins, cooker, 2 toilets, shower, hot and cold water system, 12 and 240 volts electrics, warm air heating, CREAM LEATHERETTE CUSHION COVERS, Bsc 2029, powered by a Mariner 25Hp 4 stroke outboard engine, all original gelcoat (not painted), hull polished and new antifouling, etc

NEW VIKING 26 CENTRE COCKPIT NARROW BEAM NOW IN STOCK FOR IMMEDIATE DELIVERY, 6 Berths in 2 cabins, HiLine Spec with folding windscreen, cooker with hob grill and oven, fridge, shower, cassette toilet, hot and cold water system, warm air heating, 12 and 240 volts electrics, battery charger, powered by a 20Hp 4 stroke outboard engine

‘SUMMER SPECIAL OFFER NOW ONLY £49,995’

David Mawby Narrowboat Sales are open by appointment at Shardlow Marina, London Road, Shardlow, Derbyshire, DE72 2GL

NARROW ESCAPE

£53,000

Length 57ft, Beam 6ft10ins, Built 2006

by Taurus Narrowboats with a Trad Stern, powered by a Vetus 42Hp Diesel engine, standard layout, 4 Berths with fixed double and pullman dinette, Bsc 2027. Recent New Paintwork, open plan living area, Central Heating.

CUS I CAN

£54,995

Length 58ft, Beam 6ft10ins, Built 2015

by Glen Narrowboats with a Trad stern, powered by a Barrus Shire 50Hp Diesel engine, Reverse layout, BSC March 2028.

MIJ

£53,995

Length 57ft, Beam 6ft10ins, Built 2012 by Stourport Canal Craft with a cruiser stern, powered by a Barrus Shanks Diesel engine, standard layout, Bsc July 2028

DANCES WITH WOLVES

£29,995

Length 52ft, Beam 6ft10ins, Built 1978 by Clubline Cruisers with a cruiser/semi trad stern, powered by a Ford 1.6 diesel engine, extensively refurbished by owner, Bsc November 2026

Narrowboats URGENTLY required for brokerage or outright purchase.

(Free valuation, free storage, fast payout on completion, competitive rates, terms apply) Please contact David on 07721 382619

Website: www.davidmawbyboats.co.uk

Email: davidmawbyboats@gmail.com

BROKERAGE 51

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ABNB BOAT BROKERAGE Are you a regular hirer?

Shared Ownership with BCBM could really work for you.

It makes such good financial sense because you own a percentage of your boat and that means you only contribute that same percentage towards running costs.

Shares to suit all budgets from £750 in a wide choice of boats, giving you 4 weeks holiday every year.

TAKIN DEPO G SITS FOR OUR NEW EST BOAT

Quality Boats

Our long established team are highly skilled at selling individually inspected, well presented boats from your own mooring anywhere in the UK, or from our base at North Kilworth Marina, LE17 6HY. Full members of: ABYA, and British Marine.

For Shared Ownership

ABNB exhibits at Crick Boat Show and more.

SCAN TO BROWSE ALL OF OUR BOATS

Don’t miss the boat!

Sign up to our mailing list today.

ABNB BOAT BROKERAGE Have you fully explored all the information on our website? Our website is updated daily.

01270 811 500

www.abnb.co.uk

bcbm.co.uk

01788 822 115 • admin@abnb.co.uk • ABNB.co.uk

Purchase with confidence, sell with ease Buying

First Class

Knowledgeable & experienced in helping

Selling

A first class team delivering unrivalled

you purchase your dream Narrowboat

Giving you peace of mind when

guidance & customer service

sales@swanleybrokerage.com 01270 524 855

selling your Narrowboat

52 BROKERAGE

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SELL YOUR BOAT WITH US Barton-under-Needwood, Burton upon Trent, Staffordshire DE13 8DZ | 07513 708099 barton@lakelandleisureboatsales.co.uk

Great Haywood, Staffordshire ST18 0RQ greathaywood@lakelandleisureboatsales.co.uk | 07354 902086

BECKS | £125,000

LOUISE | £45,000

M350 | £188,000

TY-TWO | £47,000

SCRUMPY | £60,000

FIRE MONKEY | £79,000

70FT TRAD STERN

64FT6” TRAD STERN

FLOATING LODGE

50FT SEMI TRAD

55FT TRAD STERN

57FT TRAD STERN

Frampton-on-Severn, Gloucestershire GL2 7JY | 07748 036638 saul@lakelandleisureboatsales.co.uk

Roydon Marina Village, Roydon, Essex CM19 5EJ roydon@lakelandleisureboatsales.co.uk 07801 962636

BADGER | £60,000

LOKI | £44,995

DOROTHY LOUISA

CALIBURNUM | £120,000

ROSIE | £29,995

ULLSWATER | £39,995

49FT TRAD STERN

50FT CRUISER STERN

£65,000 | 60FT TRAD STERN

70FT TRAD STERN

30FT TRAD STERN

40FT CRUISER STERN

Shakespeare Marina, CV37 9LE | Caen Hill Marina, SN10 1SS | 07354 902085 shakespeare@lakelandleisureboatsales.co.uk

Newton Lane, Tattenhall, Chester CH3 9NE andy@lakelandleisureboatsales.co.uk 07585 956804

HOXTON 2.1 | £179,950

2ND EDITION | £55,000

SMEAGLES DREAM

70X12FT3” WIDEBEAM

35FT CRUISER STERN

£49,995 | 50FT CRUISER

MATILDA | £20,000

MORSE | £68,000

NANTAUX | £165,000

27FT3” X 9FT8” CRUISER | SHKSP. 67FT CRUISER STERN | CAEN HILL 65X12FT WIDEBEAM | CAEN HILL

• First-class Service • New and Used Boats • Buy, Sell or Part-exchange • 9 Sales Locations Nationwide

www.lakelandleisureboatsales.co.uk

BROKERAGE 53

www.towpathtalk.co.uk August 2025

New stock arriving shortly

REDUCED

Traditional boatyard, with traditional values

REDUCED REF 10584 – Ocker.

70 foot traditional stern narrow boat. £44,950.00.

REF 10575 - Home Free.

60 foot traditional stern narrow boat. £59,950.00.

SOLD

REDUCED REF 10587 – Muddy Waters.

58 foot traditional stern narrow boat. £59,950.00.

REF 10588 - Uncle Albert.

30 foot traditional stern narrow boat. £9,999.00.

REDUCED REF 10589 - Alice.

56 foot traditional stern narrow boat. £52,950.00.

REF 10590 - Percy II. 45 foot traditional stern narrow boat. £44,950.00.

REDUCED

REDUCED

REF 10591 - Hummingbird.

52 foot traditional stern narrow boat. £20,995.00.

REF 10592 - T4 the Tillerman.

65 foot traditional stern narrow boat. £59,950.00.

SOLD REF 10593 – Woodsey 50 foot semi traditional stern narrow boat. £29,950.00.

REDUCED REF 10594 - Amor.

55 foot traditional stern narrow boat. £51,995.00.

REDUCED JUST ARRIVED REF 10595 - Rana Pioppi.

55 foot traditional stern narrow boat. £44,950.00.

REF 10597 - Buckden.

71’6” traditional historic narrow boat. £59,950.00.

54

August 2025

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Need a Survey or Boat Safety Examiner?

Services

is an independent company providing professional and comprehensive support services to Narrowboats and Inland Waterways vessels.

Based in Northamptonshire we are ideally placed to offer our services.

Our services include: • Hull condition, Pre-purchase, Insurance and Valuation surveys.

(Accredited YDSA member) • Marine consultancy.

Northamptonshire and surrounding areas.

AREA COVERED: 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 14

07903 945196 boats@jgmarine.co.uk www.jgmarine.co.uk

BOB HURST Your Local BSS Examiner

based at South Kilworth

Phone: 07720 424396 Email: robert.hurst.bss@ btinternet.com Areas Covered 9 & 10

RHYS KILLIN Dip.S.C.Sur

BSS Examiner

Alan Buckle Boat Safety Scheme Examiner

BSS Examination from £190

Covering areas 2, 3, 5, 6, 7

Tel 07748 861795 rhys_k1@yahoo.co.uk www.rhyskillin.co.uk

Pete Davidson BSS Examiner Most private craft examined.

East Midlands based.

Areas covered 5, 6, 7, 9, 10,11 07988 739136 pete@bss-examiner.co.uk www.bss-examiner.co.uk

Independent friendly service Covering the Midlands and surrounding areas.

07856 686363

bsswithalan@gmail.com

Boat Safety Scheme Examinations Nick Pritchard, MIMarEST, ABSSE,

Covering Central England inc., Warks., Leics., Northants., Oxon., Bucks., Beds., Cambs., Lincs., Staffs.

Nick Pritchard t/as Boatserve (Est. 1984) Tel: 07974 940616 Email: nick.pritchard@boatserve.co.uk, www.boatserve.co.uk

Narrowboat Surveyor

& Boat Safety Examiner

Michael Clarke

Dip.S.C. Sur AMIMarEST Areas covered: 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14 • A Friendly and Professional Service • Fully Qualified & Insured • Ultrasonic Pre-purchase & Hull Condition Surveys • No travelling Charges - All areas covered Northampton based

01604 858 868 07944 856 351

BSS Examiner, Marine Surveyor & Marine Technical Consultant Powerboat, Inland Waterways Helm and Diesel Engine Instructor

info@northernstarmarine.co.uk www.northernstarmarine.co.uk

Dave Freeman

Whitmore Marine Surveys Andrew Whitmore Dip Mar Sur I.I.M.S. Narrowboats, Widebeams, all steel craft, GRP and Aluminium.

Areas covered 11,12,15,14,10,9,6,7 Call or email for a quote and availability 07966 446420 aiw62@yahoo.co.uk

Over 25 years experience on the inland waterways

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Marine Surveys & BSS Examinations For a Competitive Quote & Prompt Service

Tel 07918 677782

Covering all Areas Based Bridge 69 Trent & Mersey Canal dave.freeman@boatsafety schemeexaminations.co.uk

DELTA MARINE SERVICES

Marine Surveying

♦ Pre-Purchase Condition Survey ♦ Valuation ♦ Insurance Condition Survey ♦ New Build/Conversion Project Supervision & Consultancy ♦ Damage Assessment ♦ Litigation Advice & Claim Assessment ♦ Areas covered 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 & 14

Mob. 07831 355543 Tel. 01926 499337

www.delta-marineservices.co.uk

TO ADVERTISE HERE CALL EMMA ON 01507 529453

BROKERAGE 55

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Bosworth Marina & Bosworth Marina Boat Sales Bosworth Marina is a luxury Marina offering excellent facilities.

1. Moorings with full length pontoons, water & electric 2. Day Boat Hire (for up to 10 people) 3. Boat Sales 4. Showers, toilets & laundrette 5. Diesel, coal, gas, pump out, elsan, rubbish disposal & recycling

6. Shop, chandlery 7. Lounge 8. Secure car parking 9. Social events 10. Idylic locatation & close to the lovely market town of Market Bosworth

Renowned brokerage We sell boats wherever they are located We also offer a cash sale service for your boat Open & transparent service Competitive rates Comprehensive advertising exposure

57ft Traditional Boatman’s cabin £55,995

Tel: 01455 291111 Email: enquiries@bosworthmarina.co.uk Email: boatsales@bosworthmarina.co.uk www.leicestershiredayboathire.co.uk www.bosworthmarina.co.uk www.bosworthmarinaboatsales.co.uk

Marina

Audlem, Cheshire

2

Rural tranquility with an abundance of wildlife, located between the Watford and Foxton lock flights.

Blisworth Arm, Blisworth, Northampton NN7 3FG Telephone: 01604 879827 www.blisworthmarina.co.uk E-mail: info@blisworthmarina.co.uk

OverWater

m oo Le rin is gs ure av ail ab le

Cooper’s Pride 62ft Traditional Boatman’s Cabin £65,000

1

Northamptonshire, NN6 7XT 07401 297 253 www.crickwharf.co.uk mooring@crickwharf.co.uk

Audlem, Nantwich, Cheshire CW5 8AY

Waterways Association

21 miles of lock free cruising

Grand Union Canal, Leicester Section

3

4

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Fenny Marina South Oxford Canal

01270 812677 Voted Marina of Distinction

Image supplied by The Inland

CRICK WHARF MARINA

Beautiifull • Peaceffull • Friiend dly At the heart of the Shropshire Union

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& Y Knot - 57ft Dutch Barge Style Narrowboat £73,000

www.craftedboats.co.uk Tel: 01295 770461

TO PROMOTE YOUR MARINA ON THIS PAGE CALL EMMA ON 01507 529453

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1

56 BROKERAGE

August 2025

www.towpathtalk.co.uk

WILL YOU HELP CANALS

WEATHER THE STORM?

MORE EXTREME WEATHER EMERGENCIES

AGEING CANALS

SHRINKING GOVERNMENT SUPPORT

RISING REPAIR COSTS

This winter, our 2,000 mile network of 250-year-old canals faces a perfect storm of extreme weather, rising repair costs and shrinking government support. Last winter alone, eight storms in three months cost £10 million in emergency repairs. Our teams are stretched to the limit as more storms hit this season.

We urgently need your donation now, so that we can be ready to react when the next emergency happens. With your support, we can carry out vital repairs, as well as restore canals and make them more resilient to extreme weather in future.

PLEASE DONATE TODAY

Give online at canalrivertrust.org.uk/donatestorms Scan to donate

Call 0330 002 1844

Canal & River Trust, a charitable company limited by guarantee registered in England and Wales with company number 7807276 and registered charity number 1146792.

BROKERAGE 57

www.towpathtalk.co.uk August 2025

Braunston Marina Ltd The Wharf Braunston Nr. Daventry Northamptonshire NN11 7JH

Tel: (01788) 891373 Fax: (01788) 891436 On the Internet: www.braunstonmarina.co.uk Email: sales@braunstonmarina.co.uk

FOR SALE KNOT SO FAST

40ft, Cruiser, 1974, Hull by Harborough, 2/4 Berth.

UNDER OFFER £14,950

£21,500

40ft/12,2m, Trad Style, 1986, Hull by Stowehill Marine, Fit Out Stowehill, 2/4 Berth.

FOR SALE

FOR SALE COLLINGWOOD

BARNABY

£30,000

37ft, Trad, 1980, Hull by Peter Nicholls, Fit out by Owner, 2 Berth.

VAYA CON DIOS

52ft. Cruiser. 2000. Hull and Fit out by Stenson. 2/5 Berth.

UNDER OFFER

FOR SALE LIFE IN SLOW MOTION

£51,950

57’9”ft /16.6m, Trad Stern, 2004, Hull by John White, Fit Out by Stirling Boats, 2/5 Berth.

CLARE LOUISE

60ft/18,29m, Trad Style, 1999, Hull & Fit Ot by Sirius. 2/4 Berth.

£52,000

70ft/21.34m, Northwich Replica, 1994, Hull & Fit Out by Steve Priest, 5/7 Berth

FOR SALE ALEXANDRA NO 4:

FOR SALE £54,950

BUNBURY

£58,500

40ft, 2015, Hull by Colecraft, Fit Out by Aqua Narrowboats, 2/4 berth.

THEREARE MANY GOOD REASONSWHYYOU SHOULD SERIOUSLY CONSIDER LETTING US SELLYOUR BOAT.....

Here are just two:  

£42,500

We have a proven record for high and quick turnover of boat sales founded on our famous and prominent location An excellent and efficient purchasing procedure for our buyers backed up by our comprehensive boatyard facilities and services, and attentive, caring staff.

CONTACT OUR SALES TEAM FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

BOATS URGENTLY REQUIRED FOR SALE THIS SEASON

A SMALL NUMBER OF WIDE BERTH MOORINGS ARE AVAILABLE! • Moorings • Narrowboat Sales • Steelwork by Arrangement • Chandlery • Pump Out • Laundrette • Diesel • Calor Gas • Dry & Wet Docks • Blacking • Engine Repairs & Servicing • Painting & Signwriting • Rope Fenders • Refits & Alterations

58 BUILDERS

BEAUTIFUL BOATS BUILT TO LAST

August 2025

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From Hull only to fully fitted narrow & wide beam boats built to your own design 57ft cruisers fully fitted from £125,500 Aintree Beetle range starting from £45,000 PLEASE CONTACT US FOR A QUOTE

WORKING TOGETHER TO BUILD YOUR DREAM www.aintreeboats.co.uk 0151 523 9000 | info@aintreeboats.co.uk Units 14-16, Brookfield Trading Estate, Brookfield Drive, Aintree, Liverpool L9 7AS

BUILDERS 59

www.towpathtalk.co.uk August 2025

Tel: T el: 0 0151 151 2 298 98 9 9602.

602. sales@collingwoodboatbuilders.co.uk sales@collingwoodboatbuilders.co.uk www.collingwoodboatbuilders.co.uk www.collingwoodboatbuilders.co.uk 72 7 2 SStt JJohns ohns R Rd, d, Liverpool Liverpool L L20 20 8 8BH BH

ONLY £1K DEPOSIT TO SECURE YOUR BUILD SLOT

THINKING OF BUYING A BOAT? VISIT OUR FACTORY AND SEE OUR FULL RANGE OF BOATS!

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Lee and Garry welcome all their customers, whether first time owners or old friends, a quality shell built to your specifications at affordable prices

Now you can find us on facebook, search

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Come and see us at Unit 67, Road A, Boughton Industrial Estate, Boughton, near Newark, Notts. NG22 9LD Call 01623 863576 or Garry 07830 720879, Lee 07723 021798 Our website is packed full of images of past and current builds, visit: www.xrandd.co.uk

50 years comb ined experience

60 CLASSIFIED BALLAST

August 2025

BOATS WANTED

CANOPIES

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ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT

GRAPHICS

BOAT BUILDER CANALIA

GRIT BLASTING BOAT PAINTERS CANOPIES

CLEANING PRODUCTS

HEATING

COURSES

BOATS WANTED

DECKING

INSURANCE

61

www.towpathtalk.co.uk August 2025

INSURANCE

MISCELLANEOUS

MOORINGS

INSURANCE

PARK HOME FOR SALE

RESTORATION

MAIL FORWARDING

SERVICES

MAPS

LED LIGHTING

LIGHTING

MISCELLANEOUS

62

August 2025 www.towpathtalk.co.uk

SERVICES

SERVICES

TRANSPORT BY ROAD

WIFI ON THE MOVE

SITUATIONS VACANT TRANSPORT BY WATER WINDOWS

SPARE PARTS

SURVEYORS

TRANSPORT BY ROAD

ON IRISH WATERS WITH ALISON ALDERTON 63

www.towpathtalk.co.uk August 2025

Clonmacnoise to undergo significant redevelopment

ORIGINALLY founded by St. Ciarán in the mid-sixth century, the monastic site of Clonmacnoise contains the ruins of a cathedral, seven churches, two round towers, three high crosses and a large collection of early Christian grave slabs.

Standing in a prominent position overlooking the waters of the Shannon and the rich grasslands of the Callows, Clonmacnoise is one of the hidden heartlands’ most popular tourist destinations and is about to undergo a significant redevelopment project supported by the EU Just Transition Fund.

The Office of Public Works (OPW) recently announced measures to improve the visitor experience at Clonmacnoise. To ensure continuity of services and a welcoming environment during this transitional period, it will provide a

temporary café service on site, including picnic tables with parasols, offering shaded seating complemented by tasteful landscaping. These features are designed to enhance visitor comfort while full construction works are ongoing. The broader redevelopment, due to commence in late 2025, will transform the Clonmacnoise Visitor Centre into a modern, sustainable and fully accessible facility, significantly improving interpretation, energy efficiency and overall visitor engagement.

The former Fáilte Ireland (National Tourism Development Authority of Ireland) building will serve as the temporary ticket desk during the works and play a key role in maintaining on-site services and community engagement.

In the future, this building

will be adapted to include a dedicated education space, a Changing Places facility, and new interpretive displays.

Boaters are not expected to experience any access issues to the site, which during boating season can be reached from the floating jetties managed and maintained by Waterways Ireland.

In correspondence with Towpath Talk, an OPW representative stated: “The planned works at Clonmacnoise are not expected to impact the boat moorings along the River Shannon. Visitor access will be maintained throughout the duration of the project.

While there may be some temporary adjustments to entry and exit points, every effort is being made to minimise disruption, including for those arriving by boat.”

Funding to benefit Grand Canal canoe clubs

MORE THAN €177,225 in funding has been awarded to 145 County Offaly community groups and organisations under the Local Enhancement Programme 2025. It will support local groups with ongoing running costs and small-scale capital expenses.

Dublin’s bistro barge goes on the market

THE bright red bistro barge Riasc, a familiar sight on Dublin’s circular line of the Grand Canal, is on the market.

The 60ft-long vessel was once part of Ireland’s inland waterways commercial transport fleet but was laid up in the 1960s when the canals closed to commercial traffic. It was later purchased and restored by the owners, and shortly afterwards began welcoming guests aboard.

During its 25-plus years in operation, the La Peniche bistro and café business housed within Riasc has built up a loyal customer base by offering intimate floating dining experiences, event hosting and canal cruises.

Based at Mespil Road, Dublin 4, or found plying the waters between here and Ranelagh Bridge, diners can enjoy a meal while taking in one of the

Pacific pink salmon alert

INLAND Fisheries Ireland (IFI) is urging anglers to report any sightings of Pacific pink salmon in Irish rivers this summer.

The fish has appeared in unprecedented numbers in multiple river systems in Ireland’s west, northwest and southwest in previous years, and poses a threat to native species. It predominantly has a two-year lifecycle, and may reappear in rivers this year, and every second so-called ‘odd’ year thereafter.

Dr Michael Millane, senior research officer at IFI, said: “The potential presence of large numbers of this non-native species poses a competitive and disruptive threat to the survival of native Atlantic salmon and sea trout. They also pose a threat to estuarine and coastal marine fish species, and the ecosystems they depend on. We are appealing to anglers and other water users to quickly contact us regarding any encounters they have with pink salmon. As these fish die after spawning, some dead specimens could also be seen along our rivers.”

Speaking to Towpath Talk reporter Alison Alderton, the IFI communications team

stated: “IFI has not yet this year confirmed the discovery of Pacific pink salmon in waterways. However, given the two-year life cycle of this species, we anticipate that some may reappear in rivers again this year.”

IFI has issued a guide to help identify pink salmon at www.fisheriesireland.ie/ fish-species/pink-salmon-oncorhynchusgorbuscha. Anglers or the public can report findings to the IFI’s 24/7 phone number on 0818 347424 or via info@fisheriesireland.ie.

They are also asked to: • • • •

city’s most vibrant and attractive quarters famed for the likes of poet Patrick Kavanagh and playwright Brendan Behan.

The sale offers any prospective purchasers the opportunity to acquire an already well-established and fully kitted-out business with scope to expand in areas such as themed entertainment and cruise itineraries. Full details can be found at www.property.ie

The bistro barge Riasc. PHOTO: ALISON ALDERTON

HBA cruise cut short

Sunset at the monastic site of Clonmacnoise. PHOTO: ALISON ALDERTON

Among those to benefit will be two Grand Canal-based canoe clubs, the Daingean Canoe Club, which was established in 2024 with support from the Tidy Town’s Committee, and Tullamore Canoe Club, which dates from 2003 and operates from the former lock house at Lock 27.

MEMBERS of the Heritage Boat Association (HBA) planning to cruise the Barrow this season have seen their cruise cut short.

As previously reported in Towpath Talk, the flotilla of 16 craft had successfully reached Carlow on their journey south to Waterford and Cheekpoint. However, further navigation ended near Milford when the way through was hindered due to silting and lack of dredging, which resulted in at least one barge going aground.

This left the flotilla no choice but to retrace their steps, signalling a disappointing end to an adventure which drew many people to the waterside to view these historical craft and meet their custodians.

Meanwhile, many businesses are suffering as, in effect, the through-route of the Barrow is closed to navigators, the silting resulting in there simply being no way through for the majority of boaters. Any on-water activities can and do take place within navigable

sections but naturally this is restrictive, particularly for hire craft operators.

The lack of dredging has been a hot topic of late, with many Irish newspapers and social media channels reporting on the issue. Among those to comment on the sorry conclusion of the HBA flotilla’s cruise included the CEO of Carlow County Council, Coilín O’Reilly, and Coun Michael Doran, who described it as ‘a big blow.’

Maintenance works are now under way, albeit too late for the HBA flotilla, and form part of the Waterways Ireland Barrow Navigation Scheduled Maintenance Programme – A Five-Year Strategic Framework, which can be viewed at www.waterwaysireland.org Many participants of the HBA flotilla have since joined the Grand Canal and travelled west, where they have taken part in the Inland Waterways Association of Ireland (IWAI) Shannon Harbour Rally. You can find out more about the association on its social media channels and at www. heritageboatassociation.ie

Photograph the fish.

Retain the salmon and don’t put it back into the water (even in rivers only open for catch-and-release angling).

Record the date and location of capture, and its length/weight.

Tag the fish and present it to IFI staff, and a new tag will be issued to replace the tag used.

The nearest local IFI staff will arrange collection of the fish for further examination.

A heritage barge struggles with depth on the Barrow. PHOTO: COURTESY OF HBA

64 GREAT OUTDOORS

August 2025

Barge Beagle – sniffing out good finds for crews with canines

Good reads for dog days

of mind, it tells of his abandonment and subsequent rescue, RELAXING with a good book before revealing to beneath the dappled shade of trees readers more about during the dog days of summer are what it is like to star times to treasure. Your dog will alongside Paul and welcome a cool spot for time to Bob. Topics such as lounge and take a snooze. While Ted’s favourite foods, your canine companion is busy how he whiles away doing that, here are some of our favourite dog tales to help you the time when he is not while away the hours with your in shot of the camera, Animal Rescues of and not to mention four-legged friend… the RNLI – Saved Ted’s thoughts about from the Waves.

The Classic his fishing companions PHOTO: SUPPLIED Barge Beagle’s are covered and make dog-eared - excuse this a laugh-out-loud book. There are some charming the pun - copy of Three Men In A illustrations and a few photos too.

Boat by Jerome K For dogs that travel Ted, A Pawtobiography – My Jerome is a prized The amazing adventures Adventures on Gone Fishing, is covered in Boating With available from all good book shops possession and the most frequently Buster will appeal to those in both hard and paperback formats. revisited tome who harbour dreams on our boat’s of travelling far and For the boating feline bookshelf.

It wide on the waterways The postwar ‘Yangtese Incident’ whimsically of Europe with their involving HMS Amethyst is recalls a punting canine companion. From well-documented, but perhaps adventure on the Three Men In A the canals of England what many do not realise is that River Thames Boat. PHOTO: SUPPLIED to Ireland, through alongside the human crew were undertaken by Northern Europe and also animals - a dog named Peggy three friends, J, George and into Scandinavia, and a mischievous Harris, and a mischievous Fox it captures a time young cat known Terrier called Montmorency. I when us Brits were as Simon. In his short life, Simon not envy those about to discover this free to come and go only travelled many Victorian classic of punts, men in as we pleased, now blazers and straw boaters, boating sadly shattered by the nautical miles, but he mishaps and doggy mischief in the outcome of Brexit. It also witnessed conflict quintessential English countryside. is a large book with first-hand. Throughout It has stood the test of time, been lots of colour photos, his time on HMS Amethyst, Simon made and remade into various illustrations, maps and films, and used as the base for pretty canal art. provided the crew with several television series but for me, Boating With Buster – companionship and light entertainment, the original novel remains the best. The Life and Times of a A must-have book for those Barge Beagle, by Alison Boating With Buster scooping ice cubes who boat with dogs. Available in Alderton, is available - The Life and times from jugs of drinking water being his party a number of different formats, in soft back and of a barge Beagle. piece, and he played including a version for children, e-book formats from PHOTO: SUPPLIED from bookshops and online stores. Troubador at https:// a vital role in keeping troubador.co.uk/bookshop/travel/ down the number of rats on board, The Brave boating-with-buster-IrDO which were having a devastating If you enjoy true stories, the impact on food supplies. recently published RNLI book of The TV spin-off The only cat to receive the animal rescues may just fit the Viewers of the BBC programme prestigious People’s Dispensary bill. The charity rescues many Gone Fishing With Paul for Sick Animals (PDSA) Dickin dogs each year, and Animal Whitehouse and Bob Mortimer Medal, awarded to honour acts Rescues of the RNLI – Saved from will need no introduction to Ted, a of animal bravery in wartime, it is the Waves covers just a handful of black Patterdale cross breed terrier humbling to think that even during them, but it isn’t just our domestic whose ‘voice’ is brought to life by times of war when pets themselves pets that are involved; there are a Paul himself as he accompanies are terrified, they can still provide the duo on their fishing humans with comfort, warmth and expeditions. This book is told reassurance. Simon Ships Out by through Ted’s eyes and delves Jacky Donovan is available from into his life in more detail. Amazon.

In a tongue-in-cheek frame

GUARANTEE DELIVERY From just £22

TEL: 01507 529529 QUOTING: TPT04

Gardening Afloat Lee Senior

UNBELIEVABLY late summer is upon us, and it is noticeable how the nights are drawing in now.

Pinky-purple flowers are commonplace in the countryside during late summer.

Alongside canals and waterways, the striking deep pink flowered rosebay willowherb often dominates the show during July and August. It can look quite spectacular en masse as it often is. It is common alongside railways too.

Ragged robin is another coveted pink, rather more delicate, wildflower in bloom during mid to late summer. It is common in meadows and wildflower patches at the side of roads, as well as canals and rivers. Purple loosestrife is another plant that flowers around now.

Less favourably, the highly invasive Himalayan balsam is showing off its purple-pink flowers to good effect. Around the country, some volunteers come together to chop this weed down due to its invasive habit.

Practical tasks

On our boats and in our gardens, containers and window boxes still invariably need watering, twice a day in some cases.

There is still time to sow the seed of salad plants such as radish, mixed salad leaves (including lettuce, mizuna, rocket) and spring onions for harvesting during autumn before the weather turns too cold.

Outdoors, tomato plants need their tops pinching out this month and also any side shoots. This is to restrict further unnecessary growth which isn’t needed so late in the summer. As the lower leaves turn yellow, it is also a good idea to remove them as well from the bottom upwards. This improves airflow near the ripening tomatoes.

If you have some good-sized containers, then growing a few overwinter onions in them will work well. They are available to purchase via mail order and in garden centres now for planting in September and October.

Follow Lee on Instagram: I n s t a g r a m . c o m / lee_senior_gardening

August rosebay willowherb in flower. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

A play on birds

TALK

TOWPATH

few surprises thrown in, including the rescue of a hawk from the River Thames and a sheep from Lough Swilly.

A great book of real-life stories with a centreplate of photos published in support of the RNLI and available from the RNLI shop at https://shop.rnli.org/ products/rnlisaved-fromthe-wavesp a p e r b a c kbook

www.towpathtalk.co.uk

Ted, A Pawtobiography – My Adventures on Gone Fishing. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

Simon Ships Out. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

KEN Norman has been a continuous cruiser on NB Dædalus since December 2021. He has worked variously as banker, training consultant, groundskeeper and comedy promoter.

After a few hours spent cruising each day, Ken enjoys creating these frivolous cartoons, called A Play On Birds. See more on Instagram: @play_on_birds

SCOTTISH WATERS WITH CICELY OLIVER 65

www.towpathtalk.co.uk August 2025

Fun for all at the Edinburgh Canal Festival The 2025 Edinburgh Canal Festival, held in June, saw the Union Canal in Edinburgh at the centre of the popular annual celebration.

LARGE crowds enjoyed a canoe water polo tournament, canoe and kayak taster sessions, live music, art and family friendly activities, and the chance to spot the resident mermaid.

This year there was even a beer created especially for the festival by Campervan Brewery – an apricot and peach Scottish gose beer.

The free festival is o rga n i s e d by Fountainbridge Canalside Community Trust (FCCT), a member-led organisation dedicated to making the Fountainbridge area of Edinburgh a better place to live, work, do business and visit. Rachel Sedman, FCCT’s development manager, describes the festival as a bit like a community open day, where people can visit organisations, stalls and community groups from the local area, all celebrating the canal. Rachel said:

“This year’s festival was a huge success thanks to our incredible volunteers, local organisations and the amazing community spirit. We’re thrilled to see so many people enjoying the Union Canal, and we can’t wait for even more excitement at the raft race in August.” This year, boat trips and the everpopular raft race will take place on August 23. Keep an eye on the Edinburgh Canal Festival website at edinburghcanalfestival. org.uk for more details.

A highlight of the festival was the Port Edgar Dragons who’d paddled their dragon boat the 32 miles from the Falkirk Wheel, along the canal to finish in Lochrin Basin during the festival.

This long-distance paddle challenge was undertaken to raise much-needed funds for the club, to secure its future. As well as members of the group, a couple of

Stonemason’s historic marks uncovered THE closure and drainage of the Falkirk lock flight on the Forth & Clyde Canal, for lock gate replacement and installation of a bywash, has given a rare view of the lock chambers and structures usually hidden underwater, including the original stonemason’s marks.

The stonemasons each had their own unique symbol which was carved on to the stones they laid to keep a count for accurate payment and as a form of quality control to allow attribution of specific work to a particular stonemason. One of the stones revealed is carved with the year 1770, which is when the engineer John Smeaton was overseeing construction of the canal.

Although marks on stones have been found on early Egyptian and Roman structures, the practice started in Scotland during the Middle Ages, appearing on medieval buildings from the 12th and 13th centuries. Towards the end of the 16th century, all Scottish masons had to register their name and mark when they joined a guild. Discovery of these marks helps historians better understand the original construction of the canals, although putting names to the stonemasons based on the marks is difficult. Scottish Canals would welcome any insights from members of the public who have records of stonemasons in their families to help in discovering individual stories.

Go Forth & Clyde clocks up more than 1000 volunteer hours SINCE the start of April, volunteer lock keepers from Go Forth & Clyde have completed more than 100 boat movements on the Forth & Clyde Canal between locks 17 and 20 – that’s more than 1000 hours of volunteering since the start of April this year!

Go Forth & Clyde, a charity based beside lock 16 in Falkirk on the Forth

& Clyde, is a group of volunteers, all working for the benefit of the canal, the local community and the environment.

The organisation offers volunteering opportunities, runs events and activities and day boat hire aboard Jaggy Thistle, a 32ft self-drive narrowboat available between March and October.

The volunteer lock keeping has long been part of Go Forth & Clyde’s activities. They usually w ork between lock 3 at the Kelpies and lock 20 at Banknock but are currently only locking boats through locks 17-20 while the Falkirk flight is closed.

Visit the website at goforthandclyde. org.uk for information.

The Port Edgar Dragons leaving the Falkirk Wheel at the start of their challenge. PHOTO: PORT

EDGAR DRAGONS

experienced paddlers from Australia, one from Canada and newbie visitors from Aberdeen took part. Port Edgar Dragons is the only cancer survivors’ dragon boat group in Scotland.

Established in 2010 with the aim of helping those recovering from breast cancer, the organisation welcomes anyone wishing

to try the sport, has had any cancer diagnosis, together with family, friends and anyone interested in supporting the team. Port Edgar Dragons are usually found on the Union Canal between Bridge 8 Hub social enterprise and Ratho. Find out more at portedgardragons.co.uk where you can also donate.

Restrictions on the Crinan Canal

A SINKHOLE has appeared on the towpath west of Bellanoch Swing Bridge on the Crinan Canal. The section of towpath between Bellanoch and Crinan Swing Bridge is closed while Scottish Canals investigates.

At the time of writing, there are still restrictions on the Crinan – only vessels with a freshwater draught of 2m and below will be allowed on to the canal, with boats being locked in groups and passage through the sea locks at Crinan and Ardrishaig available for just two hours either side of high tide.

Scottish Canals is updating

the situation regularly and has implemented these changes to normal operation following the extremely dry autumn and winter 2024 resulting in the Crinan Canal’s reservoir levels being lower than usual for this time of year. See scottishcanals. co.uk for more information.

Meanwhile, there is temporary disruption on the Union Canal after a vehicle struck bridge 47 at Kettlestoun, just west of Linlithgow. The towpath is closed to pedestrians and no boats are being allowed under the bridge until the area has been made safe.

Bellanoch Bridge. The canal here runs adjacent to the River Add as it flows into Loch Crinan. PHOTO: JONATHAN MOSSE

Go Forth & Clyde’s self-drive hire boat Jaggy Thistle, moored at their base near Lock 16 in Falkirk.

PHOTO: CICELY OLIVER

Drambuie Canal Marathon

AS WE approach the 25 th anniversary of the Lowland Canals’ reopening in 2001, it may be hard for some to imagine a time when these waterways were practically impassable.

Between 1975 and 1990, the Drambuie Canal Marathon saw teams navigate small, powered inflatable dinghies along the canals, at the time filled with mud, weeds and rubbish.

Inspired by a Round London Inflatable Marathon in 1972, an earlier Scottish race in 1973 involved teams heading west on the Union Canal from Calder Crescent in Edinburgh to the Kelvin Aqueduct in Maryhill on the Forth & Clyde, transferring to the River Kelvin and finishing in Kelvingrove Park in Glasgow.

Army lorries portaged boats and their crews around the M8 near Broxburn, and from the Union Canal to Lock 16 on the Forth & Clyde Canal.

With sponsorship from Drambuie and (from 1977) organisation provided by the Linlithgow Union Canal Society, the race became a regular event.

The route was then reversed, starting on the Forth & Clyde at Temple Locks, west of Maryhill in Glasgow, and finishing in

Lochrin Basin, the Union Canal’s terminus in Edinburgh.

The race was for inflatable boats with an outboard of no more than 5hp. Each team consisted of two in the boat and a further two team-mates as back up, but who weren’t allowed to help with portage. The event was a timed trial, with timekeepers hidden in bushes along the route.

Go too fast, too slow, or succumb to foul play, and penalty points were added.

There was a high percentage of dropouts due to broken engines and crew exhaustion.

Contestants had to deal with the stink of the derelict waterways, sometimes having to leap into the silt to haul their boat because of lack of water. The biggest test was carrying the boat, engine, fuel, spares, food and drink around the locks, particularly the Maryhill flight, and the old Falkirk locks, where the contestants had to cross the drowned culverts.

Teams came from all walks – canal communities, army, fire brigade and police, from factories and from British Waterways – with many going on to support the canals and campaign for their restoration.

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The Birdswood trip boat is run by the Friends of Cromford Canal. PHOTO: FRIENDS OF CROMFORD CANAL

Cromford Mills is located in what is known as the cradle of the Industrial Revolution. PHOTO: ARKWRIGHT SOCIETY

Days Out - Cromford

Our series is dedicated to showcasing unique days out near special canals. Whether you’re into gongoozling (watching boating activities), leisurely towpath walks, wildlife spotting, boat trips or even retail therapy, our canal system has something for everyone. This month, we’re shining the spotlight on Cromford, a bustling settlement in Derbyshire.

By Sally Clifford A PICTURESQUE place, renowned as the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution. It was the development of Sir Richard Arkwright’s world’s first successful water-powered cotton mills in 1771 and the pioneering factory system that led to the development of the pretty village of Cromford.

Nestled near to the Peak District in the heart of the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site in Derbyshire with the River Derwent flowing through, Cromford provides the perfect escape.

The historic complex of industrial buildings and the homes, pubs, school and shops that followed are a lasting reminder of the purpose-built community the Prestonborn industrialist created to accommodate his expanding workforce during the

cotton-producing heyday.

Today, Cromford Mills gives an insight into the impact one man’s invention of a water frame to spin cotton had on industry, and the world. The site’s Grade I listed status protects and preserves its importance both in the past and present while ensuring Sir Richard Arkwright’s legacy lives on for future generations to enjoy.

You can take your time meandering around the site, now owned by the Arkwright Society, and take an educational tour around the buildings, repurposed as visitor centres and attractions in this once industrious part of the world. There are independent shops and art galleries to browse, while pubs and cafes provide the perfect refreshment opportunities.

Cromford Mills also hosts a calendar of events throughout the year including a beer festival, makers’ markets and antiques and

Heights of Abraham is famous for its cable cars giving visitors a sky-high view of the Derwent Valley. PHOTO: HEIGHTS OF ABRAHAM

Your journey awaits at Peak Rail. PHOTO: B. EDWARDS/PEAK RAIL

vintage fairs. Those who want to further their explorations of this pretty place can saunter along well-trodden pathways through picture postcard scenery. There are plenty of routes to choose from, including the pathway tracing the remnants of the waterway once running through.

Engineered by William Jessop, with help from Benjamin Outram in the early 1790s, Cromford Canal ran 14.5 miles from Cromford to Langley Mill where it met the Erewash Canal with the branch to Pinxton. Although the canal eventually fell into disuse, thankfully, the Friends of Cromford Canal are supporting its ongoing restoration and, in 2014, adopted two sections of the waterway at the Lower Hartshay section and the stretch from Codnor Park Reservoir through Ironville to Lock 5.

Birdswood is the historic narrowboat that runs regular trips between Cromford Wharf and Leawood Pump House, built in 1849 to pump water from the River Derwent into Cromford Canal. The waterway is home to diverse species of wildlife. Interestingly, the stretch of canal from Cromford to Ambergate is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

Between Whatstandwell and Ambergate is a Local Nature Reserve.

Black Rocks, at the top of a short steep climb, is an outcrop of Ashover grit leading to waymarked walks through the Forestry

FACT FILE: Things to do nearby…

Chatsworth House: www.chatsworth.org Heights of Abraham: www.heightsofabraham.com Peak Rail: www.peakrail.co.uk White Peak Distillery: www.whitepeakdistillery.co.uk Great British Car Journey: www.greatbritishcarjourney.com Poole’s Cavern and Buxton Country Park: www.poolescavern.co.uk Bolsover Castle: www.english-heritage.org.uk Peak Wildlife Park: www.peakwildlifepark.co.uk Denby Pottery Village: www.denbypottery.com The Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop: www.bakewellpuddingshop.co.uk Gulliver’s Valley Theme Park: www.gulliversvalleyresort.co.uk Useful website: www.derbyshire.gov.uk/countryside www.visitmiddevon.co.uk

Bolsover Castle, the 17th century aristocratic retreat. PHOTO: ENGLISH HERITAGE

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The Towpath Ang gler Our monthly look at the angling scene

By David Kent

Beautiful Backdrop: breathtaking views of Cromford. PHOTO: DERBYSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL

Chatsworth House set in landscape largely designed by Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown. PHOTO: CHATSWORTH HOUSE Commission woodlands of Cromford Moor. Pick up the High Peak Trail and follow the former track of the Cromford & High Peak Railway Co, taking in High Peak Junction where it meets the canal.

Workshops, preserved from the railway days, and an information centre occupy this area.

Trek further into the area’s industrial past with a visit to Middleton Top. The last surviving complete winding engine house was built by the Cromford & High Peak Railway Co and contains its original pair of beam engines, built by the Butterley Company, to haul wagons up and down steep hills.

Savour the vantage with a picnic at one of many places including Redhill Quarry Nature Reserve.

All things steam and vintage will be showcased when the Cromford Steam Rally gets under way on August 2-3.

Within the surrounding natural playground Abraham Heights provides a sky view experience to see the landscape rolling beneath your feet in a cable car journey through the Derwent Valley to the summit of Masson Hill where the 238-year-old story of the Heights unfolds. Above and below this 60-acre site are further fascinating things to see in a tour of the underground illuminated caverns

Explore the history of Middleton Top. PHOTO: DERBYSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL

accompanied by professional guides, as well as exhibitions and heritage gardens to view.

Situated in the heart of the Peak District and surrounded by 1000 acres of parkland on the banks of the River Derwent is the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire’s beautiful stately home – Chatsworth House.

Boasting works of art spanning 4000 years and offering a packed programme of events throughout the year, there is plenty to see and do at Chatsworth.

Summer is the season for outdoor exploration and the sights and scenery on offer at Cromford make it the perfect Days Out destination.

Savour stunning views from Black Rocks.

PHOTO: DERBYSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL

History comes alive: inside Middleton Top. PHOTO: DERBYSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL

LAST month I referred to the Fishery and Angling Action Plans which were developed more than a decade ago. There was a great deal of harmony at national level about the plans with different sectors seeing that benefits may accrue across the spectrum. However, the harmony and intent was not taken forward by the waterways; so much so that many of the ideas and possible projects simply fell between the cracks. Even today this lack of buy-in by regions on certain things is, sadly, all too obvious. We all know only too well that the Canal & River Trust is not in the best place yet with regard to the long term, so policy and planning is having to be severely prioritised. That said, the best way for the trust to ensure that its future is healthy is to carry everyone along together and not cause any sector to become disaffected.

Equally we all must accept that total collaboration is the way.

I have noticed that there have been a number of dewatering emergencies in recent weeks.

I guess that these arise from all sorts of causes including vandalism and, sometimes, a malfunction of a lock. Over the years my local canal has suffered such dewaterings and one reason for some of these seems to have been inappropriate operation of the lock. I recall that the ‘culprit’ in a couple of these had been a hire boat. To be honest I do not know what level of instruction is usually given to those hiring a boat or what the intentions of some of those people might be, but given what damage and disruption might ensue perhaps this is something to be reviewed.

In one of those instances a fish rescue was necessary. In another case a whole pound, scheduled to be used for a national championship, had to be changed at the last minute.

I suspect that the weather we have experienced in recent weeks only exacerbates the potential problems that dewaterings can cause. Water temperatures are high, oxygen levels on a knife edge, flows are minimal. Add a serious lowering of water levels and the potential for damage to the whole canal ecology is massive.

Talking of the weather, it did seem that things were beginning to settle a bit a few weeks ago but then we have had recent weeks with daytime temperatures up to 33 degrees and 19 or 20 overnight, which have not been the best for our canals. That said, the weather may well have given rise to multiple spawnings. So with luck the population recruitment in some fisheries may be tremendous, even producing a

record year. Good though this may be, it must be noted that more fish places more demand on the dissolved oxygen levels which, as most know, can lead them to crash and possibly cause a fish kill.

Speaking to various people and looking at results it does seem that decent catches are now being recorded at lots of venues. With regard to canals the Shroppie is still as consistent as any. However top weights around 10lb appear to be the norm just now. Our rivers, not surprisingly, are very low at present so the fishing is, perhaps, not as might normally be expected at this time of year. I was talking with one of my bailiffs who had had an overnight session on his section of the Trent to see in the opening of the new river season on June 16 targeting his favourite fish, the barbel. He caught not one barbel but did catch 43 bream between 4lb and 11lb. A fabulous session under any circumstances. Some of the commercial fisheries are also producing some spectacular weights now that spawning is out of the way for the most part.

A good friend travelled down to a venue in the West Midlands to fish an open match. He weighed 123lb and came ‘nowhere’.

Since getting home from holiday in late May I have had very mixed fortunes. Just after getting home, I fished a two-day festival for anglers over 60. I won my lake on Day 1 and was third on Day 2.

Because weights were close, that gave me 7th place overall and a nice brown envelope. I have then had a couple of matches which are best forgotten and then last week I took part in a team knockout qualifier. I won the match individually but my team missed out by just one point. I have two ‘interesting’ matches coming up this weekend which I am looking forward to.

I am sure many of you will be able to grab the odd session in the coming weeks. If so, please remember, while fish seem to be feeding well everywhere, to be careful about feeding. Sometimes the fish want plenty, other times not so much. Trial and error is the answer. Bigger baits are also working too. If you do venture out, take great care to stay safe in the hot conditions. Tight lines.

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Good show of working boats in Lymm

By Colin Wareing

DESPITE the breach on the Bridgewater Canal, there was a good attendance of old working boats moored in Lymm for the annual Transport Day. There were about 20 former or replica vessels

moored along both sides of the canal, which complemented the steam traction engines in the adjacent car park. Many of the boats’ owners are members of the Historic Narrowboat Club, with the

majority of the boats at this gathering coming from the former Midlands carriers.

The Transport Day was part of the annual Lymm Festival on June 19-29, which also included arts, music, and a scarecrow trail.

Boats moored at Speirs Wharf on the Forth & Clyde Canal, Glasgow.

PHOTO: PETER SANDGROUND

By Helen Gazeley

SOMETHING remarkable has been quietly unfolding north of the border, and the vital player at its centre? The Forth & Clyde Canal.

Once a throbbing artery of trade and profit before its decline and closure in 1963, it is once again helping to shape the future of Glasgow.

The Forth & Clyde is at the centre of an urban regeneration project to the north of the city.

Until now, intractable floodwater and drainage problems, partly thanks to a sewerage system at full

Boating on the Forth & Clyde in the heart of Glasgow. Excess flood water will be diverted into the River Kelvin.

PHOTO: PETER SANDGROUNDA

design capacity, have stymied development.

This project is opening up 110 hectares of land and the promise of 3000 new homes.

It’s inspiring on a number of levels. The simplest explanation of what it does is that, when storms threaten, the level of water in the canal is lowered by as much as 10cm, creating an extra 55,000m3 capacity, which allows surface water to drain from the surrounding residential and business areas and prevents flooding.

The full picture of what is The North Glasgow Integrated Water Management System, universally known as the Glasgow Smart Canal, involves an intricate, integrated system of automated water control outstations that monitor water level, flow, and quality, along with drainage ponds, granite channels, underwater sensors and automatic lock gates and weirs that are governed by software which uses a real-time hydraulic model - a digital twin of the physical network - to predict how much water storage will be required and directs feeder and discharge sluice positions to prepare the canal to take up to 80% of the predicted volume of excess water.

At the same time, water wastage has to be minimised, canal traffic must keep moving, and timing is of the essence; reducing the level of the canal by 10cm takes about 18 hours with all sluices open. Not doing it in time risks flooding; doing it too early increases the chance of inaccurate forecasting, and too much water is removed.

For a full and awe-inspiring description of how the system works, read the article by Debbie Hay-Smith, principal engineer with engineering firm AECOM, one of the partners in the project alongside Glasgow City Council, Scottish Water, Autodesk software, and Scottish Canals (waterprojectsonline.com/ case-studies/smart-canal-2022). More info

Former working narrowboat, Swallow, is moored on the Bridgewater canal, in front of the traction engines on Lymm transport day in June. Swallow is a former W.H. Cowburn and Cowpar Ltd of Manchester built by Yarwoods and launched in 1934. She is now preserved in private ownership. W.H. Cowburn and Cowpar Ltd operated a fleet of narrowboats from their works in Trafford Park in Manchester, carrying chemicals. on the IT can be found in Autodesk’s video explaining digital twin software, introduced

by Peter Robinson, Scottish Canals’ chief engineer (youtu.be/SEUH9xcH3OM).

The project was designed and developed to be environmentally and financially advantageous too. Costing £17 million and designed to last 60 years, it’s estimated to have saved 75% of the cost of a standard drainage solution - which could have involved a tunnel being driven under Glasgow. It ticks boxes on climate change adaptation, net zero climate contributions, biodiversity and commercial opportunities.

A significant plus for the project is that, according to Richard Millar, chief operating officer of Scottish Canals, interviewed by the Glasgow Bell (www.glasgowbell.co.uk), the smart canal will bring in income by charging residents through Scottish Water for their connection to it. In effect, it pays for itself.

It’s not without controversy, though. The canal crosses some of the most deprived areas of Glasgow, and the urban renewal has been

criticised for displacing residents from newly desirable areas to make way for mixed income developments that are mainly privately owned. Millar is quoted as keen to ensure the project is not about the gentrification of the canal.

So, is there room for identical projects in England? Possibly not - one of the Forth & Clyde’s advantages is its 30km-long summit pound which acts as a reservoir - but that doesn’t mean that the canals aren’t earmarked for their potential in controlling water issues.

The Rochdale Canal is already alleviating flood risk to a West Yorkshire village by carrying overflow to a floodplain, while there is a scheme in development to transfer water south from the Midlands.

Glasgow’s Smart Canal is the first of its kind in Europe. Meanwhile, in January, the Canal & River Trust announced that its first Climate Adaptation report had been handed to the Government. After decades of being seen as a quaint remnant of history, our canals are beginning to lead the way.

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A passage in time There’s more to tunnels than meets the eye on our canal network.

John Souter’s series continues to explore the wonders of our extensive range of canal tunnels.

TO FACILITATE the efficient working of the canal network, about 42 miles of tunnels were constructed in England and Wales, of which about half are still open. This is more than the combined

KENNET & AVON CANAL Bath No. 1 tunnel – 59 yards/54 metres, completed 1810, with a towpath (see also the Bath No. 2 tunnel, 55yds/50m).

Together with the Bath No. 2 tunnel, these two are collectively known as the Sydney Gardens tunnels, with Bath No. 1 also being known as the Cleveland House tunnel. The portals at either end of both tunnels are very different in character, both having a very plain portal at one end and a very ornate one at the other, done in large part to enhance the corporate image of the canal company to those genteel visitors to the spa town who were likely to see the tunnels, but only from one end!

The feature over the inner portal of Bath No. 1 is a representation of Hafren, a feminine water nymph, while that over the inner portal of Bath No. 2 is an Adam-style depiction of Father Thames and these portals are both Grade II-listed.

Cleveland House, an imposing building standing over Bath No. 1 tunnel, was formerly the headquarters of the Kennet & Avon Canal, and there is a shaft within the tunnel that runs up into the house so that, allegedly, messages could be sent from the offices above to the boats below. It seems that this is a myth, with it being suggested that the shaft was more likely used for the less glamorous purpose of rubbish disposal!

Bruce tunnel 502yds, opened 1810, no towpath.

Also known as the Savernake tunnel due to its proximity to Savernake Forest, it is the only tunnel on the Kennet

length of all other canal tunnels in the world and doesn’t include the extra approximately 47 miles of underground canal at Worsley as part of the Bridgewater Canal.

As well as 583 locks, 2963

bridges and 337 aqueducts, there are also 55 tunnels, ranging in length from just 25 yards to more than three miles, along the 2000plus miles of our inland waterways. Let’s take a look at this month’s offering…

& Avon Canal section and one of three on the complete Kennet & Avon canal and river navigation.

Work started in 1794, and by 1804, after changing plans to route the canal around Croften to shorten its length, its engineer John Rennie had to admit that the cost had exceeded half a million pounds and would still need £150,000 to complete!

In 1805, Parliament authorised the raising of the extra funds and work was restarted in that year and completed in 1809. It was named the Bruce tunnel after Thomas BrudenellBruce, 1st Earl of Ailesbury, a local landowner and company shareholder, although interestingly it was Bruce who complicated construction by refusing to allow a deep cutting for the canal because he felt it would spoil the nature of his land and insisted that a tunnel be built instead. A monumentalsized inscribed stone tablet was placed above the tunnel’s East portal expressing the canal company’s thanks to the Bruce family for their support. More than two million bricks were made locally to be used in the lining of the tunnel and other construction-related buildings nearby.

Despite the size of the tunnel (the cross-section is the second largest after Netherton), there was no towpath included and so unpowered boats were hand-hauled through by means of chains fixed along the tunnel walls and which can still be seen in place. The tunnel was built with a wide bore, the reason being that it was to accommodate the wide ‘Newbury barges’ used on the rivers Kennet and Avon. Initially prosperous, this success ended abruptly when in 1841 the Great Western Railway opened a line immediately beside the canal. The GWR subsequently bought the

canal and proceeded to supervise its decline but despite many threats of closure, the canal was eventually reopened by the late Queen Elizabeth II in August 1990 after extensive restoration.

A disused railway track passes over the top of the tunnel and there was once a station on the top of the tunnel hill.

LANCASTER CANAL Hincaster tunnel – 380yds/348m, completed 1817, abandoned 1955, no towpath.

Work began on the canal in 1793 but due to numerous delays, the northern section, including Hincaster tunnel, wasn’t opened until June 1819, although the actual tunnel was completed on Christmas Day 1817, construction having started in May 1813. The principal reason for building the canal was to take coal from the Wigan & Worsley coalfields northwards and bring limestone from Cumbria south, although another purpose was for it to be in close carrying range of the Sedgwick Gunpowder Works at Kendal.

Although the tunnel is of stone below the water level, above it is lined with approximately four million bricks. This was unusual for the time, as although bricks were used in similar projects further south, this was a first in the north of England.

The clay for the bricks was sourced locally, about three miles from the site.

With no towpath, boats were hand-pulled through by means of a rope fixed to the tunnel wall, and the horses had to be led over the hill via a horse path.

The Westmoreland Gazette

TALKBACK

Your chance to write to us on any towpath topic: Towpath Talk, PO Box 99, Horncastle, Lincs LN9 6LZ or email editorial@towpathtalk.co.uk Historic bridge given new lease of life

Dear Towpath Talk, I read with interest the article on ‘Historic bridge given new lease of life’ in the latest Towpath Talk, but some of the information is not strictly correct. The legacy Peter Andrews left was, in fact, to be used to replace the bridge further along the towpath which crosses a further and later entrance to Braunston Marina. This bridge cannot be used by people in wheelchairs or those unable to climb the steps each side, together with parents pushing prams and pushchairs. For several reasons, the trustees decided to use the money on bridge 91A. So, all the time and money spent on this bridge (which could have been repaired by CRT funds, if really necessary) does not help the above mentioned members of

was quoted at the time of the opening of the tunnel as saying that it took a Corporation Barge about eight minutes to be haled (hauled) through using the rope. Sound could be heard from one end of the tunnel to

the community that was intended; you cannot proceed further in either direction on the towpath.

The only beneficiary appears to be Braunston Marina (the single file bridge was, I believe, erected for pedestrians to get over the newly-cut entrance when the marina was extended).

Regards, Margaret Hills Dear Towpath Talk, About two weeks ago I passed through Grants, where there was a notice pinned to the balance beam saying that there was a bees’ nest in the vicinity. While I waited for the lock to fill, I had a good look round to locate it and noticed that the bees were nesting inside the bottom gate balance beam between the two gate paddles.

Realising that a developing nest here would

lead to the bees hollowing out a space for the nest, thereby weakening the structure, I contacted CRT to tell it where the nest was and warn it that the beam was being damaged.

My particular worry was someone crossing the bottom gate might grab the safety rail, only for it to break off, causing them to fall, so I urged the trust to do something about it quickly.

I got a reply thanking me for bringing the matter to its attention.

Less than two weeks later, a boat came into the full lock and struck the balance beam where the bees were nesting, causing it to disintegrate. Did CRT undertake any safety critical remediation work following my contact? Now the navigation is closed at Banbury.

Yours sincerely, Geoff Branner Secretary, Thrupp Canal Cruising Club

the other, it reported, and that an ‘experiment was tried by two gentleman – a sentence, pronounced in low tone of voice by one of them, was distinctly heard by the other, at the distance of 378 yards.’

Through the efforts of

the Lancaster Canal Trust, the Royal Engineers were persuaded to repair both portals of the tunnel in 1980 and it is now a scheduled ancient monument, which unusually also includes the adjacent horse path.

Grants lock failure

Eastern Portal Hincaster Tunnel. PHOTO: FLIPFLOPNICK - CC BY-SA 3.0

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Making soundwaves in Blackburn

By Sally Clifford

BROADCASTING from boats isn’t groundbreaking. Last year marked the 60th anniversary since the first pirate radio broadcast on Radio Caroline, the British offshore radio station where pirate DJs were making soundwaves – among them BBC broadcasting legends, Tony Blackburn and the late Johnnie Walker.

The confines of a ship may afford more space, but broadcasting from a barge can and is being done – in Blackburn, Lancashire. Ben Pearson, community producer with Drift Community Barge, explains the project was officially launched at the end of 2024. “Probably about a year ago we put out an open call for audio commissions on the Superslowway,” says Ben. Launched a decade ago, the Superslowway is an arts and culture organisation based in East Lancashire and covering the 25-mile stretch of the Leeds & Liverpool Canal between Pendle and Blackburn. The aim, says Ben, was to animate spaces along the way through arts and culture.

Sound artist Lucia Scazzocchio responded to the callout and suggested setting up a radio station on a barge. “I have had this fantasy of putting a radio station on a barge for a long time,” says Lucia, who was inspired by the businesses operating from boats close to where she was living in London at the time.

Lucia, who set up Social Broadcasts a decade ago which combines community engagement, radio making and participatory art practice to make sound projects, suggested a temporary weekend broadcast on a barge and, with the

help of Blackburn broadcast. “I initiated with Darwen Council it as a sound artist, but – who owned a it has now become a barge – along with community radio Ribble FM and the station, which is Superslowway, the fantastic,” says Lucia. idea became a reality.

“It’s about bringing people together but “The barge was also enabling people refitted and made to tell their stories and into a radio studio Drift community radio is bringing be heard and having and it can be used for communities together through sound podcasts as well. Over along the canal. PHOTOS: JACK BOLTON different ways to do that.” three to four months I worked closely with the Superslowway to bring Creative skills it to life and we launched with an all-day radio Pop-up events also formed part of the launch show last August,” recalls Lucia. and will feature in this year’s programme She explains discussions were held to find of events across the East Lancashire canal out how the radio barge could be used for including Blackburn, Nelson and Burnley as the community and training was delivered the organisation aims to showcase local talent through workshops. They were also supported and amplify the voice of the local community. by local restaurant, Calypso, for their inaugural “It is very much about looking at what skills and attributes the local community has, helping to empower those people to show their creative skills and to shine a light on some of the heritage as well as bringing back to life areas on the canal that have been disused,” explains Ben. Creating community gardens to brighten up areas are just some examples of other projects the Superslowway has undertaken over the years.

“The Superslowway works across Pennine Lancashire and the canal is what connects the four towns and districts that we work in,” explains Ben. Volunteers get involved in the studio.

“It seemed to make sense to promote the canal and if there is a way of making sound and amplifying voices from the community along the canal it fits with our ethos.

“The thing that is really interesting, and really unique, is the barge can move and the canal goes through a number of different communities in Blackburn. Having the barge is helping to bring those communities together.”

Christened Bill Hunt after the recordbreaking Lancastrian weightlifter, little is known about the barge’s history, although it is understood to date back to the early Eighties. According to Blackburn with Darwen Council, it was initially used for the council’s Recreation and Play Services for youth trips and activities.

Bill Hunt’s daughter, Pat Phizacklea, says her father would be ‘thrilled’ the barge was named after him.

Pat recalls attending the launch of the radio station and participating in a broadcast about her late father, who was somewhat of a celebrity around Darwen during his weightlifting days. Among the records her father held were for grip strength including leverage feat. He was also the world record holder for herculean hand balancing and was an undefeated British Olympic lifter.

Pat says her father also toured the country with his balancing act before the Second World War and was a mentor for many young weightlifters. “He would be really thrilled with the boat because he was always interested in people,” says Pat.

Early risers, leaky locks and falling numbers of boaters

NABO general secretary Peter Braybrook comments on some more topical issues.

WE ARE in the middle of a heatwave and there does not appear to be any cloud on the horizon. This is good in that the waterproofs remain packed away and the sun hats and sun cream are in full use. However, the lack of rain in the springtime and the continuing dry weather mean that water levels in some canals are so low that they are not navigable and others are under lock timing restrictions to

conserve water. The nature of these restrictions means that boating is restricted to the hours in the middle of the working day when the sun and heat are at their highest. This is a great disadvantage to boaters like me who absolutely adore the early start and boating in the cool of the morning.

Sunrise in June can be as early as 4am and the balmy nights provide ideal conditions to make an early start. One is then frustrated that the locks will not be open until 10am. They close at 2 or 3pm. We have to join the queue that formed after the closure the day before.

The advantage is that boats are forced to proceed in a one-up, one-down manner, thus ‘sharing’ the water from the boat navigating in the opposite direction. The leaking gates and by-washes still run 24 hours a day.

Targets

A quick look at the Better Boating dashboard reveals some progress toward the targets that the Canal & River Trust has set itself to clear defects as they arise

and carry out planned preventative maintenance.

The latter was carried out on 100% of locks with more than 450 of them maintained by volunteers.

There is also some progress toward clearing the backlog of 140 paddle repairs by spring 2026 although this is slower than anticipated.

The combination of only one usable paddle and leaky locks is making it difficult to make a level, leading to the temptation to use the boat to ‘help’ open them.

This method can of course hasten the deterioration of the structure. This type of ‘boat damage’ is blamed for a balance beam falling in two on the Oxford Canal.

A case for preventative maintenance rather than the expense of ‘wait till it breaks’? The trust reports that 26 of this year’s 38 new paddle defects have been fixed, 96% of them within four weeks which is pretty good going. Fallen trees are also being promptly removed and navigation restored in a timely manner. The dashboard says: “Boating should feel easier for you,

with our locks and swing bridges better maintained and easier to use. You should also see fewer unplanned stoppages that disrupt your cruising.” Let the trust know if this is not your experience.

Cruising

The talk is that cruising numbers are significantly down again this year with Foxton Lock keepers recording 400 fewer boats up to June this year than they would normally expect. It is evident that many boaters are not out and about as they usually are at this time of year. That goes for us as well. We are watching the levels on local waterways as we are heading north to Birmingham for another Birmingham Canal Navigation Society explorer cruise. We really enjoy cruising in company and as we get older, assistance with the lock flights is more and more appreciated.

The hindrances to boating are many but the spate of canal failures continues to worry. The Macclesfield Canal is particularly affected. This had become

an important link between the north and south as the Bridgewater Canal breach is unlikely to be fixed before the end of 2026. But while CRT is repairing breaches between bridges 26 and 27 and below Bosley Bottom Lock, a new sinkhole has appeared on the Bosley flight adjacent to Lock 3. Another available route between north and south has been blocked by the failure of the Keadby rail drawbridge which according to Network Rail apparently cannot be operated at temperatures above 21C. The Canal & River Trust, who assert the priority right to navigation over rail, cannot do anything about it. Many boats that were stopped by the failure had to take a four-day diversion via Goole and Trent Falls.

There are many who do not favour the tidal River Trent but in these circumstances, more and more boaters are relying on it.

Industrial action called off

Following a meeting between their union and the Environment Agency an agreement has been

reached with lock keepers for River Thames staffing levels and their proposed industrial action has been called off.

June was a busy month for NABO as we had to answer questions from the CRT Commission on the Future of Boat Licensing following up on our submissions earlier in the year and a recent meeting. The commission is expected to report to the CRT trustees in September. However, this may be delayed as the commission sifts through more than 8000 replies to its survey and follows up on suggestions and comments.

Well done to everyone who took the request for evidence seriously and interacted with the commissioners.

We say goodbye and thank you to Richard Parry who leaves CRT after 10 years as chief executive. We wish him well in his retirement and hope to see him in a new capacity at the helm of a boat. He will have the time to enjoy the fruits of his labours. If you do become a boat owner, Richard, you can join us at www.nabo.org.uk

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More freedom to cruise

with an Aquavista leisure mooring in the Midlands.

NOT TINGHAM

Nottingham N ottttt ng ottin gh Castle 5 hours

STO KE- O N-TR ENT Trent & Mersey Canal

DERBY

15 hours

Nottingham Canal

Derby Canal

Sawley Sawley ey y

Kings K ngs gs Bromley Bo Bromle Bro y

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LEIC ESTE R

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Trinity Trinit ty Trinity

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Brinklow kl k Brinklow 11 hours

Crick Crick i k

1 hour

7 hours

Ventnor V tnor t Wigrams Turn Wg Wigr grams ra

NORTHAMPTON

9 hours

Cropredy Cropred ropredy opredy South Oxford Canal

The boating season is in full swing so don’t miss out on cruising freedom, new adventures and a safe and welcoming spot to moor at the end of the day.

Chat to us about a leisure mooring in the Midlands.

Call 01159 077 444 or visit Aquavista.com.

Cruising times between marinas are approximate.

When you moor with us on an annual leisure mooring, you get 100 free nights each year to visit and stay at our other marinas. There are nine to choose from in the Midlands alone.

If you want to transfer to a different Aquavista marina, we make that easy with MARINA SWAP. You can easily swap your contract twice per year. That’s even more freedom to cruise different waterways.