FREE TO READ! The November 2024 issue of Towpath Talk newspaper

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Issue 228, October 2024

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BUSY PROGRAMME OF CRT WINTER RENOVATION

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NATURAL BYPASS: FREIGHT ON WATER

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Autumn preparation begins Viewed through the arch of Bridge 22, Ashby Canal, a liveaboard boater has stockpiled his narrowboat with firewood for the impending autumn.

PHOTO: GRAHAM NUTTALL

BOAT REVIEW: LOWEN BEHOLD!

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Boaters are missing out on vital public services

By Tim Greenfield

MOOR OR STORE FOR WINTER?

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HUNDREDS of boaters are missing out on access to vital services such as healthcare, education and banks.

Waterway users say many central and local government agencies just aren’t able to deal with people who don’t have a permanent address – leaving many

falling through the cracks and suffering in the process.

Boaters say they are feeling penalised for their lifestyle choices and those with health conditions suffer the most, with one claiming the current system nearly cost her life.

The stories were uncovered as almost 10,000 boaters took part in the Canal and

River Trust’s first-ever census, with the results revealing the stark and difficult reality of living on the water for some.

The lack of a fixed address means boaters often struggle to register to vote, apply for school places, find a doctors’ practice, access other aspects of healthcare and open a bank account – all of which are things that people with

permanent addresses take for granted.

With many people taking to the water to escape the high cost of living, ensuring they can get help with benefits and social services is even more important.

But many are simply slipping through the net.

• Continued on page 2

Pride Paddle in Gloucestershire Britain’s canals to move water Leicester repairs completed

BOATS FOR SALE Starts on

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The first Gloucester Pride paddle event, hosted by the Canal and River Trust, kicked off Pride Week in the city recently. The week-long celebration got underway with a group paddle of 30 people at Gloucester Docks in a mix of canoes, kayaks and paddleboards.

Setting off from the community paddling hub, the group headed down the Gloucester and Sharpness Canal to Hempsted before returning to the docks, paddling the pride message along the canal. Paddle UK supported the event.

Britain’s historic industrial canal network is to aid 750,000 residents in the South East with water supply.

Collaboration between water companies and the CRT may transform Coventry, Oxford, and Grand Union canals, to transfer water from the Midlands to the South.

The Grand Union Canal Transfer scheme will start near Birmingham, transfer water to Warwickshire, then to Coventry, Oxford, and the Grand Union canals, and finally to a reservoir near Luton and expected to be operational by 2032. Public consultation is now open.

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The Canal and River Trust repaired a section of canal bank that had been washed away by winter floods in Leicester. The damage was caused by flood waters from the River Soar. Storms caused initial damage before further heavy rain washed the bank away. Repairs included reinforcing the canal wall with new steel piling and a new towpath. Leicester City Council provided funding for the towpath. Repairs were also done on the approach to Blue Bank Lock.

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October 2024

WELCOME to the October edition of Towpath Talk

Boaters missing out on vital public services • Continued from page 1

THE thought of somehow ‘escaping the system’ or living off grid can conjure up many romantic ideas and images, and for many, those dreams become a reality.

But for others, the reality of living on a narrowboat can also bring challenges they perhaps hadn’t anticipated… many of which came starkly into focus as the stories were uncovered when boaters took part in the Canal and River Trust’s census, with the results revealing the reality of living on the water for some.

In response, the Canal and River Trust has pledged to assist boaters wherever possible and employs welfare officers who actively engage with individuals in need of support.

The organisation has urged governmental bodies, local councils, and other agencies to intensify their efforts to ensure that boaters are not overlooked or neglected. Towpath Talk will follow this situation closely and bring you updates as they unfold.

In more pleasing news, I’m always delighted to see the sheer scale of commitment and hard work that goes into the various bodies, groups, and volunteers who maintain, repair, and care for our waterways. It’s a neverending task of unimaginable scale, but the dedication, commitment, passion, and goodwill speak for themselves.

Life on the waterways may mean many sacrifices, but community spirit isn’t one of them.

Enjoy the edition.

Dan

Editor Dan Clare tteditorial@mortons.co.uk Publisher Tim Hartley Group advertising manager Sue Keily Advertising sales team leader Emma Hansom – 01507 529489 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 Mortons Media Group Ltd, Media Centre, Morton Way, Horncastle, Lincs, LN9 6JR Tel: 01507 523456. Tel: 01507 529301 Printed by Mortons Print Ltd Tel. 01507 523456 Next issue –Thursday, October 24

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One continuous cruiser, who wished to remain anonymous, ended up needing life-saving emergency surgery after problems with having a virtual address led to her being taken off her GP’s books.

“The system is ridiculous and it nearly cost me life,” she said.

“It was hopeless and I felt like I was dying. I couldn’t even temporarily sign up with another doctor because you need to have a regular GP to then have a temporary one in a different area.

“It’s a stupid system that requires you to have an address within the practice area of the GP. So, because I don’t lie on forms and say I live somewhere that I don’t, like many continuous cruisers who use family addresses, then for the NHS I don’t exist and they can keep throwing me off their books without a care until I’m in the emergency room literally dying.”

Matthew Symonds, head of customer service support at Canal and River Trust, said: “We hope local and national government will listen to these voices and reduce these barriers – that’s all we are asking for.

“If you don’t have a permanent address, that is a major barrier.

“The Boater Census has provided us with hard evidence of the challenges boaters are facing. However, as the high cost of living continues to affect those across society, we have seen a rise in issues faced by people who have chosen or been forced by circumstance to live on boats, with numbers of continuous cruising boats increasing by 5% in the past year. We don’t want this community to fall through the net of the support and services to which they are entitled.”

Over 9500 boaters took part in the census, a mixture of continuous cruisers and those with permanent residential moorings. They represent a third of current boat licence holders.

They highlighted a wide range of issues that affect their quality of life.

A quarter said they had difficulties accessing healthcare and nearly half experienced issues claiming benefits.

The Canal and River Trust has vowed to help boaters where it can and has welfare officers who reach out to those who need help. It has called on

Case study 1: “The system is ridiculous, and it nearly cost me my life”

Alain Gough-Olaya says living on the water and working are hard work due to the lack of accessible infrastructure. PHOTO SUPPLIED government, local councils and other agencies to step up and ensure boaters aren’t forgotten.

The trust’s range of support options for boaters, including longterm adjustments made under the Equalities Act and shorter-term solutions, are also highlighted. The trust’s welfare team is there to help boaters, including linking them with local authorities, Citizens Advice, the Waterways Chaplains and local charities so they can access the support and benefits to which they are entitled.

Mr Symonds added: “While our charity provides guidance and a range of support options for those who are struggling, we need the organisations who provide the services – national government, local authorities, doctors’ surgeries, financial service providers, and government

A CONTINUOUS cruiser who nearly died after falling through the cracks of the NHS, highlighted the issues boaters face by not having a permanent address.

The woman, who didn’t want to be named, became seriously ill and ended up having lifesaving surgery after a catalogue of issues with her GP and her residential status.

“The system is ridiculous and it nearly cost me life,” she said.

She had a virtual address costing £240 a year, but because it was in a different town to her GP, it resulted in her being taken off their books despite the surgery initially being happy with the situation.

“The problem is there are no companies with virtual addresses in the town where my GP is located. In fact, they simply don’t exist in most towns, only in large cities such as Birmingham and London. PO boxes exist, of course, but you cannot use them for legal documents

etc so there’s no point.”

When she contacted her GP for an appointment after becoming seriously ill, she was told she was no longer on their books. After a phone call she was reinstated, but later taken off again due to the location issue. This meant vital tests and consultations with a specialist were all cancelled.

“By that stage I was in tears because I was so ill and in so much pain. I felt because I lived on a boat as a continuous cruiser I was being classed as homeless. They just didn’t see me as existing.

“Then came the final straw, they cut off my access to the Patient Access and NHS apps too so I couldn’t even request my regular monthly prescription.”

With no access to healthcare, she couldn’t even register with a temporary doctor.

“With nowhere else to go I ended up in A&E and then needed emergency surgery to save my life. The

departments – to take steps to address the gaps in their provision.”

The survey also revealed other issues faced by boaters, such as health correspondence, which is sent by letter and not electronically, not being able to provide an address for a bank account, accessing education and work, and poor internet connections making basic communication tricky.

Despite the gloom, there are some

Case study 2: “This lifestyle is daunting because you need to be resilient” FOR nurse Alain GoughOlaya, living on the water hasn’t brought the freedom many people crave, in fact, it has brought a host of issues that can make life extremely hard.

A continuous cruiser, Mr Gough-Olaya, 38, says he can only work in the community and only cruise in the London area, due to the restrictions of public transport and other infrastructure. In fact, he is moving to another job, further into the capital due to the problems he has encountered.

Accessing transport, poor internet connections, power issues in the winter and having to move every fortnight are some of the

hurdles he and his partner, SJ, have to overcome.

“My current job gives me a degree of flexibility as I can work from home one day a week, but if I had a normal job on a ward, I wouldn’t be able to do this,” he said. “That is part of the reason I work so far away.”

Mr Gough-Olaya, a NHS mental health nurse, and his partner cruise the River Lea in Hertfordshire, often spending time at Broxbourne. This means his closest commute is 40 minutes and the furthest one hour and 40 minutes, which costs £18 a day. In addition, they must factor in moving once every two weeks – setting aside a full

day in order to do this.

“When we moor at Redbridge, East London I cycle, but otherwise I use public transport. I have to be very organised, making sure we moor near public transport – unfortunately the only city in the UK where this is feasible is London.”

The pair have been living aboard their narrowboat, Artemisia, for nine years. Living on the land is something they can’t consider because of the cost of buying a house or renting.

Although he has an understanding employer, Mr Gough-Olaya is having to move to a new job in

Hackney, London, to make his work more accessible – a move which has brought other issues. “Doing identity checks is very hard when you don’t have a permanent address.”

The winter months bring their problems as the pair must also ensure proximity to petrol stations, so they have fuel for the generators when solar power falls off.

Add to that poor internet connections, and working from home becomes a real problem.

“I can imagine this sort of lifestyle would be daunting, you have to have quite a dramatic change in lifestyle, and you have to be very resilient.”

excruciating pain I had been experiencing for so long turned out to be a severe case of diverticulitis and an abscess in my colon, which had perforated and been left for so long untreated, had gone gangrenous.

The surgeons worked for hours to save my life and I now have an irreversible stoma for the rest of my life.”

The woman feels the system is stacked against people like her, who don’t have a permanent address they can use.

“Because I don’t lie and say I live somewhere I don’t, like many others do who use family addresses, for the NHS I don’t exist and they keep throwing me off the books without a care until I’m in the emergency room literally dying.”

She has now managed to register with a GP but has to catch a train each time she wants to see them.

“It’s a ridiculous system that requires you to have an address within the practice area of the GP.”

bright spots with innovative local authorities and agencies working with the Canal and River Trust to ensure boaters are included in their planning and policies.

ThetrustandWestNorthamptonshire Council (WNC) have worked with the boating community and local charities to set up foodbank sessions and other forms of support, including health drop-ins and social events. There is also a library, community buses for health appointments and shopping trips for boaters without transport.

In Cheshire there is a Waterway Chaplaincy which, working with Cheshire Healthwatch, has identified health needs which they will try to support with the help from other agencies.

However, the trust says more still needs to be done and has called for boaters to be included in local health strategies, rural initiatives, social services outreach, help for carers and access to energy support.

The census was undertaken so the Canal and River Trust could understand better the needs of water users, who are bracketed with other non-traditional residents such as those who live in mobile homes in official surveys.

“We wanted to understand better the challenges they faced,” said Mr Symonds. “It was a very big sample, and we think it is a fair reflection of the boating community.”

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Work starts to preserve historic boat lift for future generations

By Lucy Wood

PREPARATORY work has begun on the programme to revitalise Anderton Boat Lift, one of the seven wonders of Britain’s canal network.

The Canal and River Trust has appointed specialist engineering firm JN Bentley to conduct initial investigations on the world’s first commercial boat lift, with hopes of undertaking the refurbishment in the autumn of 2025.

Dating back to 1875, and last fully refurbished at the turn of the millennium, the structure now needs a major upgrade to remain operational. Blast-cleaning, repairs and a repaint are required, the timber control cabin needs replacing, and the IT operating system must be updated.

The first phase of the Engineering the Future initiative includes investigations and surveys around the lift’s grounds and the lift itself, identifying high-priority repairs, and confirming design elements. This information will be used in the main programme due to take

Preparatory work is underway for the major refurbishment of Anderton Boat Lift. PHOTO: CRT place next year, following the lift’s 150th anniversary celebrations in July.

There are also plans to upgrade the visitor centre to include a new, flexible events space to replace the existing marquee, plus the development of a learning, skills and outreach programme.

Jason Leach, the CRT’s head of external programme delivery, said: “Anderton Boat Lift is an iconic symbol of our industrial heritage and it’s amazing that it is still in use today, providing a vital link for boaters between the

River Weaver and the Trent and Mersey Canal. With such a rich history, it has an important role to play in telling the story of our canals to visitors.

“We are committed to preserving it for navigation and to inspire future generations. The investigatory work is the first step in upgrading the boat lift and its surrounding environments. This will not only make it more resilient and keep it available to boaters, but the transformation of the grounds and visitor centre

will mean more people of all ages can see, hear, and experience this special place and learn about why it’s so vital to keep the boat lift – and our canal network – alive.”

Andrew Holt, operations manager at JN Bentley, added: “We bring 50-plus years of experience to the project to deliver the improvements the structure deserves. We recognise the importance of the lift to boaters, the local community, and the heritage of our waterways as a whole, and we look forward to collaborating with the CRT to deliver the project over the coming months.”

The development phase of the Engineering the Future project is supported by a £574,000 grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund. An application for second stage funding will be made by the CRT next spring, while it seeks further financial and other support from trusts, foundations and other avenues. Once underway, the refurbishment of the lift is expected to last between 12 and 18 months.

First UK conference to tackle aquatic weeds A conference dedicated to the control of invasive weeds will examine the impact of aquatic weeds on Britain’s waterways and how best to deal with the problems they pose.

The Property Care Association’s (PCA) 2024 International Inva s i ve We e d C o n f e r e n c e (IIWC2024) will feature, for the first time, a session dedicated to ‘aquatic invasives’, with expert speakers from

a range of leading organisations.

The Canal and River Trust – which spends £1 million a year tackling waterborne weeds – will take part in the event.

A PCA spokesman said: “Understanding the impact of aquatic invasive weeds is a crucial part of protecting our waters.

This dedicated session at IIWC2024 is an excellent opportunity for people to learn more, network and share knowledge.”

The Canal and River Trust spends £1 million a year tackling water-borne weeds. PHOTO: MAX WADE, AECOM A Q&A will follow the final talk by

Charles Hughes from The Canal and River

Trust – Tackling floating pennywort on canals and rivers.

The IIWC2024 takes place at the University of Warwick, Coventry on November 28 and the session on aquatic invasive weeds will start with an introduction by Trevor Renals from the Environment Agency, who will also act as chair.

For more information about the conference, or to book, visit: https://www. property-care.org

Cyanide clean-up fund tops £22k as Walsall Canal probe continues

By Tim Greenfield

GENEROUS people have donated over £22,000 to help the clean-up of the Walsall Canal following a leak of deadly sodium cyanide into the waterway.

The Canal and River Trust (CRT) launched the fund, which stood at £22,480 at time of printing, after the closure of the canal following the leak of 4000 litres of sodium cyanide on August 12.

The Environment Agency is working with multiple agencies in the West Midlands to treat the toxic leak in a long stretch of the waterway, but it has now been downgraded from a major incident.

Recent testing has revealed that the levels of cyanide have dropped to a safe level but there will be months of remedial work to come, including dredging.

The CRT launched the crowdfunder to pay for immediate action while an Environment Agency investigation, which may take months, takes place.

Henriette Breukelaar, regional director at the CRT, said: “The chemical spill has been extremely distressing, and has caused great harm to local wildlife. We know that so many people share our outrage at what happened and will want to help the response.

“Of course, the company responsible should pay, but the timing and outcome of the investigation by the Environment Agency is uncertain, and we must act now to protect nature as best we can.

“Our canals 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. Events like this highlight how vulnerable they can be, and how important it is that they are properly protected.”

Around 90kg of dead fish were removed immediately following the spill.

Following the latest results from daily water testing conducted by the EA, previously closed sections of the canal have now been reopened to the public, with water quality found to meet public health guidelines. The affected section of the canal will remain closed to boaters.

The restricted section of canal has been reduced from around 12km to 1km, where elevated levels of sodium cyanide and zinc cyanide have been

found. This area, stretching from James Bridge on Bentley Mill Way in Darlaston to the west to Rollingmill Street, Walsall to the east, will remain closed until further notice.

An Environment Agency spokesperson said: “We are continuing to work closely with Walsall Council, the UK Health Security Agency and other partners to respond to the serious chemical spill incident in Walsall and to assess the impact on the environment.

“We are currently investigating the company that is believed to have caused this incident. Pollution of this kind is unacceptable and the impact on wildlife and the environment can be severe. We will take robust enforcement action if non-compliance is uncovered.

“As a result of our ongoing sampling and testing programme, the cordon restricting access to the canal has now been reduced.

We urge the public to continue to follow safety advice given by the local council.”

The CRT says all donations will go directly to supporting this work, making it a tangible way that people can act to show their support.

Paul Wilkinson, senior ecologist at the CRT, said: “The spillage has been contained to a relatively small area, but the impact on wildlife remains to be seen. Fish in the affected area have been killed and other wildlife in the area may have been affected.

“Sadly, we expect the aquatic ecosystem will have been devastated or lost for the section the pollution has passed through, from the smallest invertebrates right up to the otter that has a territory through that section.

“This is possibly our last recorded location of water voles on our waterways within the Birmingham and Black Country region from our 2022 citizen science surveys. Without natural balance, invasives and algae will quickly take over: The impacts could take years to fully recover.

“The crowdfunding campaign will directly support wildlife recovery efforts in the area in the coming months alongside our continuing clean-up work.

“All the donations to this crowdfunder will be gratefully received and will make an immediate difference in the immediate clean up, helping us start to repair the damage.”

If you would like to contribute to the crowdfunder, please visit: www. crowdfunder.co.uk/p/walsallspill

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Weevils whack weeds as £1m war waged to clear waterways A hungry natural enemy has been released into the waterways in a bid to munch a path for boaters and help wildlife.

By Tim Greenfield

THE Canal & River Trust believes 20,000 azollaeating weevils introduced this year will help free up the most weed-clogged waterways in South Yorkshire and the East Midlands.

The battle in the north comes as the charity says it is fighting hard in the south to stop aquatic weeds choking waterways. It is using specialist teams to scoop the surface of the Regent’s Canal, Grand Union Canal and River Lee Navigation to avoid the organic invaders blocking the water.

Duckweed, pennywort and azolla are growing on a massive scale, aided by warm and wet summers.

They can cover the water so effectively that they look like grass – often fooling animals and humans into stepping on them.

In the East Midlands and Yorkshire, the 2mm-long creatures (stenopelmus rufinasus) have taken the fight to the invasive water weed azolla, which is particularly problematic in the Dearne

‘After’ photo shows progress of ‘natural army’ of weevils in the Dearne & Dove Canal, Swinton, after the Canal & River Trust released the creatures to tackle invasive azolla weed. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

boaters and paddlers, and trap rubbish.

“The recent hot weather has seen some sections of our waterways become inundated by these invasive weeds that grow really quickly.

“We have to use all the tools at our disposal – including this army of weevils – to keep our canals available to all.”

Around £1 million is spent by the Canal & River Trust every year tackling invasive species across its 2000-mile canal network in England & Wales, to maintain navigation for boaters, paddlers and so that they are in turn available for wildlife.

The charity has scooped out 2500 tonnes of weed using specialist boats, volunteers and staff.

Azolla can multiply rapidly and cover the surface of a waterway with thick mats of weed in a matter of ‘Before’ photo shows the Dearne & Dove weeks. These mats can form a green surface and sometimes even be mistaken as being solid to Canal, Swinton covered in a carpet of walk on. invasive azolla weed. PHOTO: SUPPLIED Light and oxygen levels in the water are also & Dove in Barnsley, the Chesterfield Canal and reduced as a result of its presence, harming fish Grantham Canal. and other wildlife and affecting how boaters, Ellie Harker, ecologist at the Canal & River Trust, paddlers and anglers can use the canal.

Azolla isn’t a true moss, but an aquatic fern. explained: “Weevils are without doubt the best way for us to combat this prolific invasive weed. It grows very rapidly, making it one of the most Weevils breed quickly, only eat the azolla and can troublesome and invasive plants. be deployed quickly from the water’s edge, limiting Having found its way into the Canal & River the possibility of the weed spreading.”

Trust’s waterways, azolla can now be found She added: “Weevils offer a natural solution that often in large clumps. is safe, self-sustaining and more cost effective than With the effects of climate change seeing mechanical means of removal needed for removing invasive weeds flourish, the trust is increasingly other invasive plants. concerned by the impact and the costs, but “These are all proven help is at important factors as we hand from the encounter the effects ‘wonder weevil’ of climate change with and its insatiable appetite for azolla. hotter summers and milder winters.

Given time to “Each year our reproduce and charity spends a spread throughout huge amount of time a mat of azolla, these long-snouted clearing species of aquatic weed from the beetles are capable nation’s canals, rivers of clearing weed and reservoirs and they A close-up of the weevil (stenopelmus from entire lakes can be a serious threat rufinasus) which have been released into or canals within weeks. to local water wildlife, the Dearne & Dove Canal, Swinton to tackle cause problems for invasive azolla weed. PHOTO: SUPPLIED Individually the

Canal boat artwork celebrating Yorkshire waterways unveiled A HUGE canal boat artwork, called the Looping Boat, has been installed on the Sheffield & Tinsley Canal.

The first-ever artwork on water by ‘art’s master illusionist’, British artist Alex Chinneck, is 13 metres long and six metres high.

It incorporates signwriting and traditional canal boat colours to celebrate the history of Tinsley, Sheffield’s historic waterways and industrial heritage.

Alex said: “This is our first artwork on the waterway. It introduces a whole other level of complexity in terms of engineering, logistics and installation.

“We hope it engages audiences and attracts people to discover that part of the waterway which is beautiful, post-industrial environment that has largely been reclaimed by nature.

“We hope it becomes known as a playful and uplifting little landmark.

“This is a collaborative work involving structural engineers, specialist steel fabricators, waterway contractors, professional painters and traditional canal boat sign writers.

An artist’s impression of the Alex Chinneck artwork destined for the Sheffield & Tinsley Canal. The sculpture will be sited on the canal.

PHOTO MARC: WILMOT

“Without question, this will be my most complex and challenging artwork to date.”

Positioned between locks 4 and 5 of Sheffield & Tinsley Canal, near to Meadowhall Shopping Centre, its site away from the navigable channel of the canal will serve as a gallery space for the sculpture, enabling the loop-de-loop work to be viewed from 180 degrees by passing narrowboats and from the towpath.

Made from steel and aluminium, the project has been co-funded

by British Land and by energy company E.ON, who committed to creating a public artwork as part of its redevelopment of the Blackburn Meadows site.

The planning application for the artwork was submitted by artist Alex Chinneck on behalf of the Tinsley Art Project Board, which includes Sheffield City Council, E.ON, British Land, Tinsley Forum, Canal & River Trust and Yorkshire Water.

Graham Whitfield, from the Tinsley Forum, said: “We are looking forward to seeing Alex’s vision and our ideas becoming a reality. It will be fantastic for the area to have this unusual and playful addition that will help to inspire young and old to have an interest in art, health and the local waterways, while transforming an area of Sheffield where there is a lack of public art.”

Alex Chinneck has been

working in the Sheffield area for seven years and has created multiple artworks in Tinsley during that time, including a sculpture of a car hanging upside down, creating an illusion that was visited by more than 5000 people over six days.

In 2019, Alex returned to Tinsley with a new sculpture – a knotted post box, which was temporarily installed on a residential street outside Tinsley Meadows Primary Academy.

Alex Chinneck’s narrowboat artwork being prepared to be transported to the Sheffield & Tinsley Canal. PHOTO: MARC WILMOT

weevils consume a relatively small amount of azolla. However, they breed to produce very large populations which, together, will feed extensively, until sections of azolla start to die and sink to the bottom, where the weed further decomposes.

Azolla is a small, aquatic, free-floating fern native to the warm, temperate and tropical regions of the Americas and until 2014 it was available to buy as an ornamental garden pond plant.

Also known as water fern or fairy moss (azolla filiculoides), it was one of five aquatic weeds banned from sale in the UK in 2014.

The Wildlife and Countryside Act makes it illegal to plant it or cause it to grow.

River staff will be safer after their annual ‘health and safety’ clinic WORKERS have seen first-hand the danger of accidents on the waterways. Canal & River Trust engineers spent a day learning about the potential dangers while they worked on the UK’s waterways.

The staff were invited to Aqueduct Marina in Cheshire for their annual health and safety day, where they learnt about recent accidents and saw the impact of injuries on colleagues and staff.

The event provides attendees with an opportunity to not only get hands-on with a wide range of equipment but also to learn the latest H&S information. Aqueduct Marina was chosen in part due to its long association with the trust and the marina’s ongoing work to produce the new generation of workboats.

The day included sessions covering lessons learnt from recent accidents; a tour of the marina workshops, a practical exercise to safely build a scaffold tower; and videos showing the impact of injuries on colleagues and their families.

The event also saw exhibits and demonstrations by a number of businesses involved in the construction industry. The trust’s regional construction manager Andy Morris highlighted that, in many cases, staff don’t get an opportunity to see or try out new equipment being developed for the construction sector. Events like this are an ideal opportunity for staff to get hands-on.

Over the past few years, the engineering team at Aqueduct has worked closely with the trust’s engineers to develop a new concept workboat that is highly portable and, due to a new kit construction method, can also be built quickly and economically.

Robert Parton, managing director of Aqueduct Marina, said: “We were delighted to host the Canal & River Trust’s H&S day. It was interesting to see and try a wide range of equipment available for almost every situation.”

Dean Davies, head of direct services at Canal & River Trust, said: “I also want to thank all our supply partners who gave up their time and equipment to make this event the success it was. We had lots of positive feedback from colleagues, and from many of our suppliers saying it was the best event they’ve attended.”

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www.towpathtalk.co.uk October 2024

Boost for better access

Campaigners championing accessibility on the UK’s waterways said a meeting with the Environment Agency to discuss moorings and facilities was ‘impressive’ and ‘refreshing’.

By Lucy Wood

TRACEY and Tim Clarke, founders of the Accessible Waterways Association, were invited to the Denver Complex on the River Great Ouse Relief Channel, near Downham Market, Norfolk, to explore how the EA is aiming to extend and develop its existing moorings there to include several designated as accessible on both banks of the water.

They and EA officials discussed the options being looked at. “One idea that really impressed us is that of movable railings,” said Tracey. “This would be a system of portable railings that could be taken from site to site and installed upon request, according to the needs of individual boaters. They would be invaluable to many boaters who experience difficulties with unprotected edges (for example, perhaps those with balance or co-ordination challenges).

“This is yet to be explored more fully, but we are hugely encouraged by the EA’s forward thinking on this.

Practicalities will need to be balanced, but we discussed the possible options of these being either pre-installed by EA staff at a booked mooring upon request, or perhaps a set of railings being available to hire and then installed by the boater themselves (or a crewmate) at each mooring (where fixings are available) as needed. This would be dependent upon the means of fixing and installing.

“It really is just an idea at the moment, but a very good idea, in our opinion.”

The representatives expressed a particular interest in the AWA’s free Boaters’ Blue Card scheme, which signposts that there may be people on board a boat with a disability. Tracey is now compiling an information pack and education campaign for all lock keepers, volunteers and staff on the country’s waterways.

Accessible mooring bollard

Also discussed at length was the design for an accessible mooring bollard being developed by the AWA and Canal & River Trust. It is designed to be easier to use, especially from a seated position on a boat; it is larger and brighter than existing bollards, which is vital for those with poor eyesight and helps to avoid trip hazards, too. It is envisaged that they will be installed at the CRT’s designated accessible moorings spaces with clear signage, which will encourage others to leave spaces for those who need them.

Unlike short bollards or rings, the thin neck design allows ropes to be easily thrown from boats.

Canal restoration aims to create new wetland and benefit nature A new wetland area being created as part of the Cotswold Canals Connected scheme is set to attract more wildlife and support tourism.

By Lucy Wood

Tracey and Tim Clarke, founders of the Accessible Waterways Association, meet Environment Agency officials at the Denver Complex in Norfolk on August 8. PHOTOS: AWA “The consensus of opinion is that this is very appealing and workable,” said Tracey. “If these bollards are incorporated into the planned mooring areas, then the Denver Complex would prove an excellent test site for the beginning of a nationwide roll-out of the project.

“Part of our aim is to roll this out as a national standard across all of the UK’s inland waterways, regardless of which authority looks after it. Maybe it could also become a standard in our coastal harbours too.

“Of course, all of this is dependent upon funding, and nobody has yet found a magic money tree. But the EA has a positive attitude towards this and talk of ‘where there is a will, there is a way.’

It fully acknowledges the absolutely obligatory need to make its sites as accessible as possible for everybody equally.”

disabilities, but also about attracting new users and benefiting other groups, such as families with young children.

One of the exciting initiatives discussed includes the creation of accessible access points and pontoon spaces for both residential and short-term stay moorings on designated sites.

“We are optimistic about the future and making progress on this important project. We look forward to continuing our work in collaboration with AWA and other partners to make our waterways more accessible.”

The EA said it is also committed to improving signage to better promote accessibility. Read more at https:// tinyurl.com/AWAdenver

Equal access for everyone

As reported in September’s Towpath Talk, the AWA is calling on waterways bodies to put equal access for everyone at the top of their agendas.

“The day was refreshing in the sense that we were actively invited, our input was sought, and our thoughts and ideas were enthusiastically welcomed,” Tracey added.

“We had good conversations about the whole topic of accessibility of our waterways, what AWA is all about, and what EA wants to be able to achieve. We are impressed and greatly encouraged by the EA’s ideas and ambitions with regard to accessibility.”

An Environment Agenc y spokesperson said: “We recognise that improving accessibility is not just about enhancing the experience for our current customers, including those with

THE Fromebridge Biodiversity Project focuses on the wetlands area and wildlife ponds between the Stroudwater Canal and River Frome, south of Whitminster. As well as providing new feeding grounds for migratory birds, it is also set to feature a bird hide with a multi-user accessible towpath so everyone can get closer to nature, enjoy the tranquillity of the canal and explore the canal’s heritage.

A planning application has been submitted which also includes the creation of two water vole ponds, a wetlands area, lowering of the River Frome floodbank in two locations, the creation of two flood bunds and the levelling of the canal towpath bank. The project – which will be completed by volunteers from the Cotswold Canals Trust and Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust – is being undertaken as part of the wider Cotswold Canals Connected scheme to link a nine-mile stretch of canal between Saul and Thrupp to the national inland waterway network.

Funded by a successful £8.9 million National Heritage Lottery Fund bid and donations from organisations, charitable trusts and private donors, it is the largest canal restoration programme in the country and will create a wildlife corridor along the length of the canal from the Severn Estuary Special

The Environment Agency is developing its moorings at the Denver Complex.

The AWA’s Accessible Waterways Day is being held in London on October 5, an informal event for people who enjoy inland waterways featuring exhibitor stands and more. Admission is free between 10.30am and 6pm at UCL East, by the Olympic Park in Stratford. Visit www.awa-uk.org.uk/accessiblewaterways-day-london-2024/ for more information.

Stop planks are lowered into Dock Lock pound, which is being restored as part of Cotswold Canals Connected.

The event was held to raise the profile of the Fromebridge Biodiversity Project. PHOTO: STROUD DISTRICT COUNCIL

From left at Dock Lock on August 9 are: Rob Benson (Cotswold Canals Connected chief engineer); Dr Simon Opher (MP for Stroud); Coun Catherine Braun (Leader, Stroud District Council); and Coun Mark Hurrell (Deputy Leader, Stroud District Council).

PHOTO: STROUD DISTRICT COUNCIL

Protection Area at Saul through to Brimscombe Port. Fifty-two acres of agricultural land has been acquired specifically to support biodiversity and the environment by creating two new wetlands areas in Fromebridge and south of the River Frome, the application for which was formally approved in June.

Work on the Fromebridge project is expected to start before the end of this year subject to planning approval and raising the funds required. It is one of the key Cotswold Canals Connected environmental projects to reconnect the Stroudwater Canal to the national canal network at Saul Junction (phase 1B).

Stroud District Council and the Cotswold Canals Trust are co-leading it with the Canal Environment Programme, led by Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust.

Coun Catherine Braun, leader of Stroud District Council, said: “This council is committed to restoration of the canal, promoting tourism and protecting and enhancing our environment, so we are very excited to be part of this project.”

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October 2024

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Restoration work completed as canal link between England and Wales edges closer to reopening Corporate helpers pitch-in to assist society members at Crickheath section

THE latest phase of the Montgomery Canal restoration project has been completed – bringing the dream of linking the two countries via the closed waterway ever closer.

Volunteers completed the latest stage in the project, the restoration of the 18th century Tramway Wharf Wall at Crickheath in Shropshire.

It was part of the section from Crickheath Bridge, which is being excavated and lined, so it can once again allow navigation.

The workers left a surprise time capsule – a 2024 King Charles III 50p hidden somewhere in the repaired wall.

The location will remain secret so it may be found by future restorers.

The Shropshire Union Canal Society is behind the work and its own team of volunteers was supplemented by dozens of corporate helpers.

Corporate helpers

A society spokesman said: “We were joined by nine corporate volunteers from Practice Plan in Oswestry. They undertook valuable vegetation clearance work around recently-planted hedging whips.

“With the society’s regular volunteers fully occupied with channel and towpath restoration activities, this was an enormous help. Thanks to all of them for their hard work.

“So far this year, 44 corporate volunteers have joined us for a day, which must be something of a record.”

The wall work started last year, and with support from members of the Dry Stone Walling Association, over 100 metres has been restored.

“There have been plenty of challenges along the way, not least from the condition of the wall but most notably from a site that steadfastly remained under water much longer than expected due to the extraordinarily wet winter,” added the spokesman.

The Crickheath Wharf area before volunteers tackled it. The latest phase in the Montgomery Canal restoration project has been completed with the new wall, towpath and clearance work.

Volunteers pictured with the restored Tramway Wharf Wall at Crickheath.

Flower blooms as historic trophy saved

PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

Restoration started in 1969 and has continued with the reopening of 20 miles of canal and 35 miles of towpaths.

Work is funded by various organisations including Shropshire Council, the Government’s Levelling Up Fund and donations from the public.

There are also dozens of volunteers who regularly give their time to the project.

To find out more about the Montgomery Canal and the Shropshire Gap visit themontgomerycanal.org.uk or shropshireunion.org.uk

The Crickheath Wharf area after volunteers worked to renovate it.

Tidy work

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Other work completed included tidying banks above the wall and profiling the channel ready for lining and blocking.

Part of the 200 metre long towpath was also restored during the work party.

The Montgomery Canal, which links England and Wales, closed to boating in the 1930s following a serious breach of the banks near Frankton Locks in Shropshire. It was never repaired and was left to decline.

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Elizabeth Ray and her horse Flower, with the Canal Boat Horse Class trophy. PHOTO: KEV MASLIN

Volunteers from Oswestry business the Practice Plan pictured with the restored Tramway Wharf Wall at Crickheath. The latest phase in the Montgomery Canal restoration project has been completed with the new wall, towpath and clearance work.

A 124-year-old trophy awarded to the best canal boat horse has been saved from the furnace and once again was competed for at a recent event.

The West Bromwich Horse Show, Canal Boat Horse Class, trophy was saved by Staffordshire engineer and boat builder, Roger Fuller, who spotted it for sale on eBay. “It appeared I was the only correspondent who wasn’t interested in melting it down for scrap,” he said.

The solid silver trophy was first awarded at the West Bromwich Horse Show at Dartmouth Park back in 1920, with hundreds of canal boat horses competing in several classes.

It was last competed-for and presented in 1939.

In July this year it was once again given to the Best Turned-out Boat Horse and Tackle, and won by Elizabeth Ray of

Norbury and her horse Flower, both nine.

Mr Fuller hopes the trophy will be competed for annually, and called for owners to join the contest for what could become known as the Audlem Cup.

Staffordshire boat builder Roger Fuller with the Canal Boat Horse Class trophy, which he saved from being melted down and will once again be awarded to the best dressed horse on the canals. PHOTO: KEV MASLIN

Flood damage to Grand Union Canal fixed in £500,000 repair programme THE Canal and River Trust has completed a £500,000 repair to a section of canal bank that was washed away by the winter floods in Leicester.

The charity has repaired and strengthened a 100 metre section of Grand Union Canal bank that saw significant damage when flood waters from the non-navigable River Soar, which runs parallel to the canal, had overtopped and scoured away the canal wall and towpath on top.

The damage to the wall, near Blue Bank Lock, south of Leicester, was caused when

the river overtopped following a succession of heavy winter storms. Storm Babet in October caused initial damage before Storms Gerrit and Henk’s heavy rain and flooding saw the bank washed away.

The trust has reinforced the canal wall with new steel piling backfilled with stone and a new towpath laid on top. Leicester City Council provided nearly £44,000 of funding from its Transport Improvement Works capital programme to reinstate the towpath, which is a popular route linking the Great Central Way and nearby Everards

Meadows and an important part of the pedestrian and cycleway network The trust has also carried out repairs on the approach to Blue Bank Lock, installing more sheet piling and adding new moorings for boats using the lock.

Linny Beaumont, regional director for the Canal and River Trust, said: “This is an example of the devastating impact flooding brought about by climate change can have on our historic waterways, and the work we have to do to protect them for future generations.

“It also emphasises the need for continued support if we’re to keep them navigable and secure all the benefits that brings in turn to local people and wildlife.

“We’re grateful to Leicester City Council for helping with the cost of reinstating the towpath which is popular with walkers and cyclists.”

Assistant city mayor Coun Geoff Whittle, who leads on environment and transport, said: “We’re very pleased to have supported the Canal and River Trust with funding for this project. We want to make it

as easy as possible for Leicester people to access our blue and green spaces, because we know the benefits they offer for recreation, mental and physical health. Encouraging people to walk and cycle also helps our environment and air quality.

“Sadly, climate change is presenting us with increased challenges from flooding and extreme weather events, so that we need to conduct repairs like these to ensure people can continue to have access to the recreational spaces we know they value.”

7

www.towpathtalk.co.uk October 2024

Below the waterline to repair historic River Avon lock

By Lucy Wood

DIVERS were brought in by the Canal and River Trust to help make repairs to the Grade II listed Weston Lock, on the River Avon just outside Bat. The lock, which is almost 300 years old, is one of 104 between Bristol and the River Thames at Reading which make up the Kennet & Avon Canal.

Repairs were required to one of the paddles, the trap door which boaters navigating the waterway operate to empty the lock of water.

The paddle removed by divers and repaired by the CRT’s bankside maintenance team.

PHOTO: CRT

A specialist dive team went below the surface of the canal to temporarily remove the paddle from the lock gate, which allowed

the CRT’s bankside maintenance team to make the repairs before the divers once again fixed the paddle back in place.

The divers also carried out an inspection to help inform future maintenance and removed weeds, timber and other impediments around the lock gates to speed up filling time.

After only a brief closure, the lock – which is one of the deepest on the navigation, lowering or raising boats more than nine feet – was open again to boaters.

Weston Lock is one of the deepest on the Kennet & Avon Canal. PHOTO: CRT

A specialist diver goes under the waterline at Weston Lock. PHOTO: CRT Rob Labus, contract manager south at the CRT, said: “Weston Lock is nearly three centuries old and is still in daily use by boaters on the waterway. It is vital we carry out repairs and complete inspection work like this so that the navigation continues to be available for boaters and for the benefit of the local community.

“Using divers is costeffective and saves on the time needed for the navigation to be stopped.

“The challenge of keeping the amazing piece of heritage open and available is

Identity warning to 19th century canal vessel owners A TRENT Navigation notice advising boat owners of a draconian penalty if instructions about displaying their name and address on vessels weren’t adhered to, was a highlight of a Paperchase Auctions’ sale in July.

The strongly-worded notice warning of a £5 levy – nearly £1000 in today’s money – in the event of non-compliance, was signed by surveyor John Hopkin and at the bottom was dated April 3, 1833, although the wording states that the instructions were enacted from the twenty-ninth day of September, one thousand seven hundred and eightythree – 50 years earlier and the year the company was established.

It was directed at the owner or owners of every boat, barge, keel, or other vessel (except pleasure boat) passing on the River Trent, or any part thereof, between Wilden Ferry and Gainsborough, and instructed that the name or names, and places of abode, of the owner or owners, should be set at full length, in white letters, on a black or dark background, four inches long and of a

The Trent Navigation notice concerning the names and addresses of vessel owners that sold at auction in July.

PHOTO: PAPERCHASE AUCTIONS

proportional breadth.

These details were to be placed “upon some conspicuous part of each of the outsides of the said boat, barge, keel, or other vessel, higher than the same shall sink into the water, when full laden, and to be kept at all times plain and legible.”

The warning continued that if the instructions weren’t followed, or if the details were covered or concealed by any master, owner, or other person,

the offenders, if convicted by a JP, would pay a £5 forfeit, equivalent to £944 today, and that this would be levied by distress and sale of the offender’s goods and chattels.

Apart from its blunt and unequivocal wording, another feature of the notice, which sold for £19 in the auction, is that it was printed in a reducing type size.

Paperchase principal Brian Moakes, who put the notice under the hammer at his quarterly auction that ran from July 14-30, told Towpath Talk: “We sell all forms of transport notices, but have never come across one on this particular subject and with such wording.

It came from the estate of a deceased collector, and is a most unusual survivor. Our accent is on railway literature, but canal and inland waterway items have become quite popular in recent years.”

See Geoff Courtney’s Heritage under the hammer column on page 68 for details of this and other auctions featuring canal and inland waterway items.

never-ending. The lock is a remarkable piece of engineering, and we hope the repairs undertaken will make the lock easier to use.”

Canal and River Trust asks incoming Government to ‘properly support’ vital work Tim Greenfield

THE Canal and River Trust is hoping to form a positive partnership with the new Labour Government to secure its long-term funding and halt the possibility of canal closures.

It is hoping ministers will see the benefits of the waterways and agree to support its maintenance and renovation programme to stop them falling into disrepair or possibly risk being shut.

However, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer warned of a gloomy financial outlook and said all areas of public funding are under the spotlight ahead of the Autumn budget.

CRT spokesperson Fran Read said: “The previous government agreed a new funding package running until 2035 – not as much as we think necessary.

“We are talking to the new government and want to form a working partnership to ensure canals are properly supported, so they can continue to provide benefits to the nation.”

The previous government agreed £740 million from 2012 to 2027, on condition the charity would increase its own income and need less taxpayer cash. Last year, ministers agreed a further £400 million from 2027 to 2037.

However, the charity says this agreement is actually a cut in real terms. It says the public can help by lobbying their MP to get support for their campaign.

The charity has been running a publicity campaign to gather support and wants to highlight the value of the waterways network, not only for leisure but also wildlife and water supply. It fears a drop in funding will lead to a decline in the network, even raising the fear of canal closures.

A Defra spokesperson said: “We recognise the wide range of benefits that our inland waterways bring, and the Canal and River Trust receives an annual grant of £52.6 million to support their maintenance and development.”

Montgomery canal volunteers celebrate Navigation Ale milestone

Shropshire Union Canal Society volunteers have raised a glass to celebrate a successful fundraising partnership with a local brewery.

By Lucy Wood

MONTY’S Brewery, based in Montgomery, has sold more than 20,000 pints of its Navigation Pale Ale, and each pint has resulted in a donation towards the restoration of the Montgomery Canal.

The 4.0% strength light bitter was launched in April last year and promoted by society volunteers who visited waterside pubs around the Shropshire network to explain the idea to publicans.

Now, the beer is sold in casks and bottles not only by distributors in Wales, Lancashire and the Midlands, but also in selected off-licences and online directly

Monty’s Brewery’s Navigation Pale Ale. PHOTO: SUCS

Pamela and Russ Honeyman from Monty’s Brewery with Les Green (centre), from the Shropshire Union Canal Society. PHOTO: SUCS from the brewery.

Yearly donations are anticipated to be between £1200 and £1500, which the society will use in applications to grant-giving bodies

for what is called matched funding; societies applying for grants are expected to raise a given amount themselves,

normally 10%.

D av e C a r t e r, the chairman of Shropshire Union Canal Society, said: “Working with local companies is a win– win situation. We both raise funds while helping economic growth – and the volunteers love the beer as an extra bonus.”

Russ Honeyman, commercial director of Monty’s Brewery, added: “Working with enthusiastic volunteers enhances our business.

They promote the beer and give us regular communication on how the money is spent. Watching the progress made on the canal and being part of a great project is a real boost.”

Pamela Honeyman, from Monty’s Brewery, attended a ceremony in June to mark the restoration of Schoolhouse Bridge on the Montgomery Canal. PHOTO: SUCS

8

October 2024

www.towpathtalk.co.uk

AROUND THE COUNTRY WITH IWA’S AMY TILLSON

Fund Britain’s Waterways submits case for Government Spending Review FUND Britain’s Waterways is a growing action group currently comprising 136 member organisations representing hundreds of thousands of users and supporters of inland waterways.

Its sole purpose is to campaign collectively for an increase in government funding of Britain’s inland waterways to avert their decline and to promote awareness of the economic, environmental and social well-being value they provide.

The request is that: 1. The importance of our inland waterways as a unique national asset and part of the national

infrastructure is recognised.

2. The deterioration in condition that is already happening is acknowledged.

3. A comprehensive review of Government funding for all our inland waterways should be carried out as a matter of urgency, with the aim of defining a sustainable funding solution which will enable the current benefits of our canals and rivers to be maintained and enhanced for future generations.

To fund inland waterways properly would cost a small (in Government terms) investment measured in millions, not billions, of pounds. In return, the country would continue

to obtain billions of pounds of health, economic and environmental benefits, much of this in less well-off areas.

We are already seeing the waterways deteriorating and businesses suffering. Without urgent action, the inland waterway network will be in serious jeopardy. If the condition of waterways continues to deteriorate, waterways will ultimately have to be closed, businesses will be harmed, communities placed at risk, the benefits lost, and millions of hours of volunteer effort wasted.

IWA’s Sustainable Boating Group and Freight Group also submitted representations.

Second-hand waterway books for sale THE IWA has been donated a large collection of waterways books to sell for funds for its work.

A small part of the collection accompanied the IWA sales stand at Canalway Cavalcade, Crick and Braunston Boat Show, where over £500 was raised from the sale of these books.

More books have now been added from the collection to the schedule, which can be

downloaded at https://waterways.org.uk/ about-us/second-hand-books.

If you would like to purchase any of the books, please e-mail paula.smith@waterways.org.uk, who will respond to confirm availability and arrange payment. The books are all priced at less than the cost they can currently be purchased second-hand at Amazon.co.uk

Safety lessons for pupils as ‘service’ day is washed out ON THE final day of their summer term, Berkhamsted Boys’ School partnered with the Inland Waterways Association and the Canal and River Trust to deliver the annual Greenes’ House Service Day, time set aside from lessons to make a difference for the local community.

In 2023, 40 boys were involved in painting infrastructure along the Grand Union Canal, adjacent to the school’s Castle Campus in Berkhamsted. This year, plans were made to walk to the Grand

Union Tring Summit Level at Cowroast, before using canoes to tackle floating pennywort growth, as well as managing vegetation along the towpath.

Sadly, with a washout forecast, the decision was taken to cancel the outdoor elements of the day.

Instead, Al Camacho and Jack Prothero of the Canal and River Trust visited the boys at school.

After a brief introduction to the history of the canal and the work of the trust, they delivered an interactive session on keeping

safe around open water. This included identifying risks and practising how to safely throw life ropes and lifebuoys.

Undoubtedly, these were important life lessons for the boys, particularly ahead of the holiday and the possibility of spending more time around open water. Nevertheless, it is hoped pupils will be able to get back outdoors, to serve the local community by completing new practical projects along the Grand Union next year.

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COLIN WAREING Lancashire in January 2019. PHOTO:

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 op Team award which has been Top kT 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 r r. coming year. of Commended are the Friends the River Nene and the Waterways Chaplaincy’s Martin and Fiona Buck.

Award presentations to our finalists

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 donation finalists will receive a £100 towards their volunteering organisation the from Mortons Media Group Ltd,

alk.

Tal tth T publisher of Towpath Our thanks go to the readers who rose of to the challenge of finding a group aave gone that extra 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

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 Chesterton the told reporters thatt shots, coming from moored at Browns side of the river, were fired at boats five about for on Field, Fen Ditton, and this went no injuries were minutes. Cambridgeshire Police said 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. alk went to press.

Tal tth T been identified when Towpath

11/12/2019 10:17:16

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IWA has expressed concerns to Network Rail regarding the ongoing problems with the opening times of the Vazon Bridge. PHOTO: NICK ROBERTS

Fears over Vazon Bridge opening

THE IWA has written to Network Rail to express concern about the ongoing problems with the opening times of the Vazon Bridge over the Stainforth and Keadby Canal.

The Vazon Sliding Railway Bridge works by sliding open to allow boats on the Stainforth and Keadby Canal to pass, before returning to its original position, enabling trains to continue with their journey.

The crossing connects trains between Doncaster, Scunthorpe and the Lincolnshire coast and is a busy rail freight route.

The sliding bridge is Britain’s only sliding railway bridge over a canal, with the original structure dating back to the 1860s.

Sensors on the structure alerted Network Rail teams to a fault with its mechanism which involves a key component that allows the bridge to slide across the canal. The part needs replacing and a new one is now being specially made.

Prior to the maintenance

work, the bridge was opened for boaters as required, but at the time of writing the bridge is only opened at 10pm each day, with no indication of when normal service will resume.

One daily 10pm opening is not only potentially dangerous due to the need to cruise in the

Try the Trent Members Celyn and Callum Joinson. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

dark but also takes no account of tides, further limiting the availability of navigation.

The bridge is now illuminated and signed to aid boaters, but while this is welcome, it raises the further concern that Network Rail may be looking to make this one opening in 24 hours a permanent arrangement.

Navigation rights at the Vazon bridge precede the railway as the Stainforth and Keadby Canal was already in use when the rail line was built and is covered by an Act of Parliament.

The IWA has asked for reassurance that, once these repairs are complete, the rail bridge will return to its normal service of being opened for boaters when required.

In the meantime, thanks are due to Celyn Winter and Callum Joinson, two members of the Try the Trent group, who have been helping boaters navigate through the rail bridge and the nearby road bridge since night access was required a month ago.

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.

October 6 and 15 Northampton Branch

Work parties are usually held one weekday and one Sunday a month along the Northampton Arm. Tasks usually include vegetation clearance, weeding, litter picking and painting.

Contact Geoff Wood: geoff.wood@ waterways.org.uk October 4: 10.30am-2.30pm Burslem Port

Regular work party on the Burslem Arm of the Trent and Mersey Canal, run in partnership by IWA North Staffordshire and South Cheshire Branch and the Burslem Port Trust. Meet at Luke Street, Burslem.

All tools and equipment will be provided.

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

Please contact Dave Broome before attending: dave.broome45@gmail.com or 07974 966253 October 17: 10am-3pm Cheshire Locks

Monthly work party on the Cheshire Lock flight of the Trent and Mersey Canal, between Kidsgrove and Wheelock. This work party is jointly led by IWA North Staffordshire and South Cheshire Branch and Trent and Mersey Canal Society.

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 John Lawson: john.lawson@ waterways.org.uk or 07940 878923

9

www.towpathtalk.co.uk October 2024

The front cover of Ken’s book, A Play on Birds.

Left: Ken and Kate Norman aboard their 67ft narrowboat, Dædalus. PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

Characters of the Cut Ken Norman – Flock Comedy

By Alice Elgie

IT WAS a school narrowboat trip back in 1977 that first piqued cartoonist Ken Norman’s interest in living aboard.

He was then aged just 15, and along with his now wife, Kate, it turned out to be just the beginning of their adventures together on the water.

Fast-forward 44 years, and taking into account a 20-year banking career with a staff narrowboat that Ken and Kate made good use of, and the Normans finally – along with Buffy the boat cat – made their childhood dream come true. They officially moved aboard Dædalus, a 67ft 12-year-old narrowboat built by blacksmith Robert Kranenborg, as continuous cruisers in December 2021.

Ken commented: “Our daughters both live in London so we head south for the winter months and in 2022 we moved 220 times, clocking up 1200 miles. We’ve slowed down since then!”

A Play on Birds

One particular time they slowed down was during an enforced stay in Liverpool last year, which in turn provided an opportunity for the rebirth of creativity.

“There was a breach in the Leeds and Liverpool Canal so for five weeks we stayed put in the city. I hadn’t drawn much since my teens, but after picking up some felt pens and pencils I found myself doodling birds and then alongside, a companion visual pun.” Ken shared these whimsical cartoons on his social media, which led to the suggestion of a book.

“To test the water I launched a crowdfunding campaign on

Canal and River Trust targets dozens of sites in massive winter renovation programme

Kickstarter and, to my surprise, in four weeks I’d raised £2000 in advance orders of a book that didn’t exist and so A Play on Birds was born!”

Just for laughs

It seems Ken has always needed a creative outlet, as when he worked in banking he was a member of a number of dramatic societies in Essex.

But upon moving to Chipping Norton in 1997 a lack of drama clubs saw him turn to comedy.

“After leaving the bank in 2000 I put on a two-man comedy revue with a friend, Norman & Lyon Live at Her Majesty’s Theatre in London’s West End, and from there I formed a comedy club Flock Comedy, at which I would regularly MC.” It seems while he didn’t draw during this time, he still courted creativity and was partial to a pun.

Inspiration

As a continuous cruiser, those puns seem to flow thick and fast when passing

Tim Greenfield

Ken and Kate’s boat Daedalus, moored at St Pancras. through a constant stream of inspiration.

“I feel blessed to be inspired by nature, wildlife, the flora and fauna around me but I have a special love for the birds I see and meet. They are wonderful, fascinating and often very funny.” I agree with Ken when he says how on water we have the opportunity to experience wildlife eye to eye and he has plentiful opportunities for close encounters.

“I love that swans bring their family of cygnets in a flotilla to the boat and knock on the windows for food, and in London vast flocks of coots assemble at four in the morning and hoot and honk like clown car horns in a traffic jam.”

Being born and bred on a dairy farm in Essex, Ken’s always had an appreciation for wildlife but boating life has certainly ramped things up.

Birds of Play

Ken, working on the ‘beakqual’ A Play on Birds II: Birds of Play, ready for publishing this October.

A lock gate being built by the Canal and River Trust, for installation at one of 129 sites this winter. The charity is planning a massive programme of renovation and repair works from November to March. PHOTO SUPPLIED

Once moored, Ken draws at a table in the galley where he is graced with lots of natural light from both sides. “I’ll spend a couple of hours rough sketching, drawing, redrawing and then colouring in.”

Despite describing his work as basic, many find it endearing, as has been proved by those who purchased his first book of 54 cartoons, published in October 2023.

Buffy the boat cat.

Ken is working on the ‘beakqual’ A Play on Birds II: Birds of Play, ready for print this October. You’ll be able to buy copies online, but since Ken bought a CRT Roving Trader’s license, you’ll also find him selling copies – along with postcards and prints – directly from the boat. “About once a week I just stick out an A-frame and a display and sell a few copies where I moor up.”

It might have taken 40+ years for Ken and Kate’s dream of living aboard to take shape, but it was worth the wait and interestingly, having stayed in touch with the teacher (Jerry Brayshaw) who used to organise those school trips – and just months after moving aboard Dædalus – Ken and Kate bumped into his son, Ben, a liveaboard on his own narrowboat, CurlyWurly.

It seems life on the water has proved a ‘pheasant’ choice for all… boom, boom!

Find Ken on Instagram: @normolddog @ @play_on_birds @ @buffytheboatcat @ Books B

and

WORKERS from the Canal and River Trust are poised to start a massive programme of renovation work next month.

The organisation is planning repairs and conservation projects across the waterway network from November to March and is hoping there will be minimal disruption to boaters.

Work, which includes installing new lock gates and fixing leaks, has been planned with feedback from boaters.

Spokeswomen Fran Read said: “We always try to minimise disruption, and where possible try to avoid closing off all route options. Boaters were invited to give feedback on the proposed programme over the summer – and we have included this.”

A host of repair, heritage and conservation tasks will be carried out at 159 sites across England and Wales.

The trust will be installing 129 new lock gates, handcrafted in its specialist workshops at Caen Hill Flight on the Kennet and Avon Canal, Hatton Flight and Braunston on the Grand Union Canal, Acton’s Lock on the Regent’s Canal in central London, and on the Rochdale Canal and Birmingham Canal Navigations among others. Other work includes masonry repairs to bridges, tunnels and wash walls, work to fix leaks and preserve water for navigation, and inspections of important

infrastructure including Islington Tunnel, York Street Aqueduct in Burnley, plus Gloucester Lock.

Malcolm Horne, chief infrastructure and programmes officer, said: “Our canals are as important now as they were at the height of the Industrial Revolution – but age and increasingly frequent and extreme weather events are taking their toll, meaning our work to repair and maintain the canals is needed now more than ever. The work we are carrying out this winter is part of our ongoing investment programme to keep canals alive and accessible for navigation for boaters, as well as acting as linear parks benefiting local people and wildlife.”

In addition to the winter works, the trust is midway through a multi-million-pound programme of reservoir repairs to help ensure the resilience of the water needed to keep canals topped up, with continued investment to safeguard the water supply from the trust’s reservoirs – the oldest in the country.

“Work has taken place, or been scheduled, at over two-thirds of the charity’s 71 reservoirs. In addition, repairs along canal beds, canal walls and at locks will help ensure millions of litres of water aren’t lost from the network’s ageing structures. The trust is also continuing to invest in its dredging programme throughout the year to improve navigation.

To find out where and when work is taking place visit: canalrivertrust. org.uk/notices

postcards:

flflockcomedy.sumupstore.com

Then and now. The school narrowboat trip back in 19 977 piqued cartoonist Ken Norman’s interest in living aboard.

A Alice Elgie is a writer and yyogi who shares words about her nomadic life, a a along with journaling and mindfulness practices, on her blog: p s l ow i nt o t h e s e a s o n s. substack.com

A lock gate being installed by the Canal & River Trust. The charity is planning a massive programme of renovation and repair works from November to March. PHOTO SUPPLIED

10

October 2024

www.towpathtalk.co.uk

Cruisers urged to adopt dogs as cost-of-living crisis hits pet charities

Two of the UK’s largest pet rescue organisations have called for boaters to give desperately needed homes to dogs in their care

Boating is a wonderfully stimulating life, meeting lots of new people and different locations, all while having the comfort of home with them.”

By Tim Greenfield

THE RSPCA and Dogs Trust – who have hundreds of pets needing new homes – both say they are keen to see more waterways users adopting canines. They say it is more important to find the right owners and home, rather than focusing on whether that is on land or water. However, they point out that boat owners should do their homework before thinking about getting a dog.

Amy Ockelford, from the RSPCA, said: “We’d encourage anyone who wants to add a pet to their family and feels they have the time and financial stability to commit to a pet to please consider adopting.

“We’re in the middle of an animal welfare crisis due to the cost-of-living crisis – we have more animals coming into our care and staying for longer, with fewer people looking to adopt.”

Judith Haw, from Dogs Trust, echoed the RSPCA’s plea: “We encourage anyone ready to welcome a dog into their life and home to consider adopting a rescue dog. We match each dog to the right home and that includes to people who live on boats.”

Significant numbers

Last year, Dogs Trust rehomed 10,588 dogs and the RSPCA found 259,000 canines new homes.

Great companions for boaters

Mabel the greyhound, adopted from Dogs Trust, lives with Amiee Meb. Mabel has lived with Amiee on six different boats.

PHOTO SUPPLIED

According to Statista, pet ownership in the UK surged from nine to 12 million from 2020 to 2023. Many households got a pet during the Covid pandemic but a subsequent rise in the cost of living and the return to work meant many dogs were given up.

Amiee Meb adopted Mabel, a retired greyhound, from Dogs Trust and has never looked back: “They did a boat visit and she leapt straight in and made herself comfortable. She’s lived on six boats with me since then and travelled most of the network.”

Animal behaviourist Ann Coleman believes boats provide a more stimulating environment than houses. “A lot of owners think a garden equates to exercise, but it’s a very boring environment for them.

A walk has two purposes, exercise and stimulation.

RED HILL MARINA

Abbie Jade and her partner Josh with their newly adopted Both the RSPCA and Staffordshire-cross puppy, Sydney. They adopted Sydney from Dogs Trust say dogs can Dogs Trust after struggling to find a rescue centre that would let make great companions them rehome a dog. PHOTO SUPPLIED for boaters, and they have tailored their rehoming policies to ensure all Tips for adopting dogs on boats cases are considered.

• Check whether the dog likes water or has “We believe there is no ‘one size fits all’ when it been on a boat before – if not, this might comes to rehoming and so we do not have any blanket need to be something that’s introduced gradually rehoming policies at the RSPCA. Instead, we make • Elderly dogs or those with mobility issues decisions based on the needs of each individual pet.

“We’ve had some wonderful success stories of may struggle with boat life – a ramp may dogs who have been adopted to live on yachts, canal be useful boats and barges, and they’ve had a wonderful time • Owners need to consider exercise needs enjoying life on the water. Adopting a rescue dog is an of the dog amazing way to help animals. We’d love to encourage • Think about your lifestyle and long-term plans anyone living this lifestyle and looking at adopting • Consider the space on your boat and the a pet to consider the dogs the RSPCA has in its care waiting for new homes across England and Wales.” size of the dog • Does your mooring allow dogs and do you Abbie Jade and her partner Josh recently adopted Sydney, a Staffordshire-cross puppy who cruises with have access to a vet? them in the Leicestershire and Warwickshire regions.

“We wanted to adopt a puppy so they started dog with mobility issues could struggle to get on life with us on a boat,” said Abbie. “The biggest and off the bank – but other dogs could love life on a challenge was finding a rescue charity that would boat. Every dog has their own individual personality let us adopt, fortunately Dogs Trust was happy for and the RSPCA believes in matching them to the perfect home – and owner. us to (adopt).

Many dogs have only ever known life on boats, “It has been going really well. He sleeps well and has taken to boat life nicely and is very for example, Ruby was rescued by Laura Martinez inquisitive. He loves meeting people and dogs Chavez after her owner became ill. “Unfortunately he up and down the towpath,” added Abbie, who (the owner) got really poorly when he was mooring by has been a continuous cruiser for a year. us last year, so we took care of Ruby while he was in The RSPCA added some dogs may not be hospital. Sadly, he passed away. My partner, Josh, and suited to life on board a boat – an anxious dog I then decided to keep Ruby and she has been the best might not enjoy life on the water or an elderly addition to our narrowboating adventure,” said Laura.

Tips for all dogs on boats:

• Ensure they are tethered or kept below deck when mooring or negotiating locks • Best practice is to tether dogs while moving • A lifejacket is recommended to keep them safe when they’re on board • Keep a life ring, rope and pole handy • Check with the microchip companies how to keep their contact details up to date if you’re moving from mooring to mooring regularly as it’s a legal requirement to have your dog microchipped as well as wearing a tag • Keep a collar and tag on your dog • In hot weather a fan, a cool mat or damp towels will help keep your pet cool

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Laura Martinez Chavez rescued Ruby after her previous owner became ill. Ruby has always lived on boats. PHOTO SUPPLIED

Rehoming greyhounds

Home Run Hounds, which specialises in rehoming greyhounds, believes the personal touch when considering an adoption pays dividends in the long run.

Charity chair Tracey Parbery said: “We are one of the few charities which will home to the boating community, which is extremely sad.

“Our volunteers will take kennel dogs out and about all over the place to test their suitability.

Some greyhounds will not react to ducks and geese, great for narrowboats!

“The volunteers also take the hounds home to see how they react to different flooring. Many narrowboat floors can get slippery, so we would recommend putting runners down so the dog can move about more securely. Some of our greyhounds do not like steps, some do not like water; as with all breeds, every greyhound is different and this is why it is essential we take our time to ensure that we do the best we can for the adopter and their potential pet.”

She added: “We find that once a person has had a greyhound in their life, they will not look at other breeds. Greyhounds are notoriously lazy; they have a quick burst of energy and then can sleep the day (and night) away, albeit they do love to walk. This makes them the perfect breed for many different homing environments.

“We have enquiries from people in houses, flats, boats, with children, without children and even cats! Our philosophy is to work with our adopters to find a perfect greyhound to suit their lifestyle. We stay as a point of contact for as long as the adopters need, and we love hearing how the greyhounds are doing.”

To find out more about Home Run Hounds, please visit www.homerunhounds.co.uk and for more advice about rehoming dogs visit: www. dogstrust.org.uk or www.rspca.org.uk

11

www.towpathtalk.co.uk October 2024

PART OF MIDDLEWICH CANAL CENTRE

Mark Baker, Grand Western Canal Country Park manager; Philip Brind, managing director of Tiverton Canal Company and Coun John Hart, chairman of Devon County Council celebrate the park receiving a Green Flag for the 16th year in a row. PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

D OL S AT BO

Fabulous family affair as Tivertonian is relaunched 50 years on

By Tim Greenfield

THOUSANDS of visitors enjoyed a glorious day out at the 50th anniversary of the horsedrawn barge Tivertonian on the Grand Western Canal.

To mark the event, Jane Tirard, the granddaughter of author Helen Harris, who launched the boat exactly half a century to the day earlier, poured cider over the bow of the relaunched vessel at the celebration.

Held at the Grand Western Canal Country Park, the event allowed visitors free entry to the Tiverton Canal Basin where there was a host of activities.

Mark Baker, Grand Western Canal Country Park manager, said: “The event was a great success and really did justice to this important milestone in the history of the Canal and Tiverton. The turnout was really good and underlined how much the people of Tiverton and the wider region love the canal and the horse-drawn barge.”

Philip Brind, managing director of the Tiverton Canal Company, gave a history of the horse-drawn barge from its launch on the canal 50 years ago by author and historian, Helen Harris, to the present day, including heartfelt thanks to people that had helped over the years.

It was a double celebration for the park team as both the Grand Western Canal Country Park and Stover Country Park have received the Green Flag Award.

The award is the international quality mark for parks and green spaces.

Activities galore

The day, organised by the Canal Ranger Service, in partnership with the Tiverton Canal Co, Tiverton Town Council and Mid Devon District Council, saw crowds enjoy a variety of activities, including fairground rides, model boating, rural skills and music by various local musicians and bands.

Coun John Hart, chair

Author and historian Helen Harris launches the original horse-drawn barge, the Tivertonian, in July 1974. The Grand Western Canal Country Park hosted a 50th anniversary celebration of the barge in July this year.

of Devon County Council, said: “The barge provides a wonderfully peaceful way to step back in time and quietly enjoy the canal’s wildlife and heritage.

“It is one of only two horsedrawn trip boats left in England and is a unique selling point for Tiverton and mid-Devon, attracting large numbers of tourists and boosting the local economy.”

Mid Devon District Councillor for Halberton, Gwen Duchesne, proved to be a font of ideas and contacts. Naomi Zealley from the Heathcoat Fabrics, made up 100m of colourful bunting and also ran the incredibly popular mop cap and neckerchief activity, while art students at nearby Blundells School created a very popular barge-themed scene with head cut outs for amusing photos.

Countryt park manager Mr Baker added: “A huge thank you to them and to everyone who was involved.”

“Here’s to the next 50 years!”

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Jane Tirard, granddaughter of author and historian Helen Harris, pours cider over the horse-drawn barge, the Tivertonian, to mark the 50th anniversary of the vessel.

You can find all of our companies at Kings Lock Boatyard, Middlewich. CW10 0JJ Crowds enjoy the activities at the 50th celebration of the Tivertonian, at The Grand Western Canal Country Park in July this year.

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12

October 2024

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Exploring your canal ancestry: Newspapers

Nicola Lisle continues her family history series by looking at how newspapers and journals can help you with your research.

NEWSPAPERS can be a treasure trove of potentially useful information for the family historian, whether you are looking for details about specific family members or just trying to get a feel for the life and times in which they lived and worked.

If you have been trying to trace your ancestors’ movements and the trail has gone cold, newspapers can give clues as to their possible whereabouts.

The construction and opening of a new canal, for example, would attract navvies, boatmen and other canal workers looking for new employment, so that might open up a new avenue of exploration for the family historian.

During the golden age of canal building, national and provincial newspapers carried reports on new canal proposals, public objections, parliamentary debates, canal construction and the opening of new canals, as well as accidents or other incidents on those waterways.

The reduction and eventual abolition of stamp duty on paper during the 19th century saw a rise in the number of newspapers, which also gradually increased in size and scope. The dawn of the 20th century saw increased competition between publications, with new titles appearing while older titles merged or closed. Use of illustrations became more commonplace.

Discontinued titles are likely to be particularly useful as they covered the period of the canal heyday. In Oxfordshire, for example, the main current newspapers, The Oxford Times (established 1862) and its sister paper, the Oxford Mail (established

Where to find newspaper archives

The Sack House in Wantage, standing at the head of the former canal wharf, has been the subject of local news coverage, from being saved from demolition to opening as a museum. PHOTO: NICOLA LISLE 1928), were preceded by Jackson’s Oxford Journal, which was founded in 1753 by Oxford University printer William Jackson. Jackson’s merged with the Oxfordshire County News in 1898 to become the Oxfordshire Journal and County News, later changing its title to the Oxford Journal Illustrated, which it retained until its closure in 1928.

How newspapers can help your research

So, what kind of information can you glean from national and local newspapers? As already mentioned, new canals were given widespread coverage, from the initial proposal to completion and the official opening. Later on, as the canals declined, there are likely to be reports of the closures of canals and canal carrying companies.

Front cover of The Atlas newspaper from July 26, 1851. Founded by Scottish journalist Robert Stephen Rintoul in 1826, the paper ran until 1869. PHOTO: BRITISH NEWSPAPER ARCHIVE (PD)

The Waterways Museum at Ellesmere Port holds the UK’s main waterways archive.

PHOTO: DAVID MERRETT – CC BY 2.0

Reports of accidents, industrial disputes and other major incidents on the canals would certainly have been seized on by journalists.

One of the most famous disputes, which made national headlines, occurred in Braunston in 1923, when Fellows Morton & Clayton cut local boatmen’s wages by 6.5%. Backed by the Transport and General Workers’ Union (TGWU), which had been formed only the year before, the local boating community came out on strike. The dispute lasted 14 weeks, ending with a compromise deal at an industrial hearing.

Other useful details you might discover include:

• Obituaries and funeral announcements, which can help clarify biographical details.

• Inquests into accidents and deaths involving canal companies and their workers.

• Reports on crimes, such as drunkenness, fighting or stealing, all of which carried harsh penalties, from imprisonment to transportation.

• Reports on court proceedings, which will name defendants and witnesses.

• Business and trade reports.

• Advertisements for canal-related jobs.

• Local events, which may have involved canal workers.

• Reports on former canal warehouses and other

SUBSCRIBE TODAY

The Waterways Archive (https:// canalrivertrust.org.uk/things-to-do/canalhistory/the-waterways-archive) includes newspaper articles, cuttings, advertisements and press images relating to specific canals and canal companies, as well as collections of waterways journals.

The British Newspaper Archive (www. britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk) has digitised pages from the vast collection of national and regional newspapers held by the British Library, dating from 1700. New pages are constantly being added. Search the database by key words, dates, names or locations.

The Times Digital Library (www.gale.com/c/ the-times-digital-archive) covers the period 1785-2019. A subscription is needed, but many local libraries offer free access.

The Guardian also has its own digital archive (https://theguardian.newspapers. com), which dates from 1791 to the present.

Regional and waterways museums often have archives that include newspapers and journals, and cuttings relevant to the area may be on display. Finally, local libraries and archives usually hold collections of regional newspapers, magazines and journals. buildings, including whether they have been demolished or repurposed.

If you know where your ancestors lived and worked, you can search specifically for news relating to canals and other events in those areas.

If you are unsure, widening your research might throw up some useful details and help to pinpoint your ancestors’ movements.

Even if you don’t find any specific details about your ancestors, newspaper coverage will give an idea of the times in which they lived, from their daily routine and life on the cut to the social and economic problems they faced, all viewed through a contemporary lens.

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October 2024

www.towpathtalk.co.uk

Freight on water: the natural bypass for roads Jonathan Mosse’s monthly look at freight development on the inland waterways.

WITH the recent appointment of Lord Peter Hendry of Richmond Hill CBE as rail minister – until recently chair of Network Rail – the ongoing fracas surrounding safety at Euston Station has again been drawn into the spotlight.

Upheld in one memorable tweet as ‘a Petri dish of chaos’, we are reminded that London’s major terminus remains the focus for the attention of the Office of Road and Rail (ORR) – the Government’s transport regulator.

What isn’t being addressed, however, is why a ‘transport regulator’ limits its attention to just two modes of transport when newly appointed Transport Secretary Louise Haigh sets out her stall with an opening address, stating that the Department for Transport (DfT) would ‘think about infrastructure and services together at every turn’.

She goes on to promise that while “it will take all our effort, the new motto of our department – our purpose – is simple: move fast and fix things.

“Our department is so clearly central to achieving the missions for government that the prime minister has committed us to: growth, net zero, opportunity, women and girls’ safety, health. None of these can be realised without transport as a key enabler.”

Strategic priorities

However, once again waterways freight sits nowhere near the top of the list of these enablers.

Indeed, it can only be inferred from the items listed in fourth and fifth place in her list of five strategic priorities, which she claims is putting transport at the heart of a mission-driven government: • Improving performance on the railways and driving forward rail reform • Improving bus services and growing usage across the country

Scaffolding being unloaded at the CRT yard, Icknield Port Loop. The vessel nb Arundel is owned by CBOA secretary Richard Horne.

PHOTO: RICHARD HORNE

• Transforming infrastructure to work for the whole country, promoting social mobility and tackling regional inequality • Delivering greener transport • Better integrating transport networks Time will tell how this all shakes down into an integrated trans-modal package, if indeed it does but clearly the transport playing field is currently a long way from being levelled as last month’s announcement, that Not always in DfT would waive track charge of glamorous access charges for new cargoes, current rail freight traffic for the CBOA chair Lee next six months, recently Wilshire with the Camden rubbish run! drove home to me.

No mention there, of PHOTO: JONATHAN MOSSE a possible incentive to relax the tolls on similar new traffic carried on our network of inland waterways, a significant example of which is currently being trialled in the North East: already a key area for ‘levelling up’ among other initiatives!

Commercial Boat Operators Association

Prominent CBOA member John Branford operates three 500-ton aggregate barges on the waterways of the North East. PHOTO: JONATHAN MOSSE freight carriage, including those applications that involve the loss of wharfage facilities.

They work with Canal & River Trust (CRT) at a national and local level with CBOA and its members participate in CRT’s Steering Groups, including the ongoing Port of Leeds project and sit on the Navigation Advisory Group. They have a representative on the CRT Council and provide advice and guidance for their d re dg i ng programme while influencing repairs, stoppage dates and maintenance programmes.

CBOA has met with DfT representatives and played an active role in the review of the Modal Shift Revenue Support (MSRS) grant scheme, ensuring the needs of its members are well represented. The association has also worked with partner organisations to ensure that there is a coherent, unified response from the wider marine sector to this consultation.

They continue to produce an informative CBOA

“Our department is so clearly central to achieving the missions for government that the prime minister has committed us to: growth, net zero, opportunity, women and girls’ safety, health. None of these can be realised without transport as a key enabler.”

So once again it is left to an unsung and largely unpaid trade body to promote what is widely recognised as the most environmentally sound transport mode, namely the Commercial Boat Operators Association (CBOA).

Year in, year out the association’s officers continue to work hard to maintain a waterways presence and promote their freight usage. On a regular basis they meet with, and provide advice and guidance for, prospective water freight users on waterways of all sizes. As well as providing members (trade and associate) with expert advice. They monitor planning applications across the country, supporting proposals where merited, providing guidance to local authority planning officers and, as appropriate, object to proposals which might adversely affect waterborne

Previous (and long-standing) CBOA chair David Lowe runs bulk carrier Fusedale H on the North East waterways. PHOTO: JONATHAN MOSSE

Newsletter which is circulated widely beyond their membership to influencers and decision makers across the freight and logistics sector.

In life we are warned to ‘beware of what we wish for’ but some of the attention surrounding Lord Hendry’s spat with engineering and safety whistleblower Gareth Dennis might just be a welcome change for inland waterways transport, if only to shift the focus away from the two ‘R’s.

So, at the risk of sounding like a broken record, surely it is time to get inland waterway freight services under the common umbrella of DfT rather than floating around in DEFRA under the auspices of CRT, where it is without either a department or responsible officer.

CBOA secretary Richard Horne is the owner of nb Arundel, on to which scaffolding is being loaded at Icknield Port Loop for lock works at Farmers Bridge. PHOTO: RICHARD HORNE

Tim West, CBOA vice-chair, is the driving force behind Robert Wynn’s versatile barge, Terra Marique, seen here negotiating Kincardine Bridge on the Firth of Forth. PHOTO: JONATHAN MOSSE

15

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October 2024

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Navigating life, love and locks on a narrowboat

Open for business: Some of the beautiful stock Colin and Andrea sell through their business, The Bird Box and Jenny Wren.

Growing a fledgling business Couple’s floating home is their workplace. Sally Clifford reports.

IT WAS a chance find; the forlorn-looking narrowboat was lying against a hedge when Colin Wood spotted it. He’d previously made a career out of buying, restoring and selling cabin cruisers and could see beyond the boat’s then sorry state.

Colin knew it had potential and it proved to be a life-changing purchase for him, his wife (and fellow boater) Andrea.

“Andrea has always had boats. She spent a lot of time on the Norfolk Broads and sailing in the Lake District. I did a bit of sailing and I love cabin cruisers. I used to buy them, do them up and sell them,” says Colin.

Teamwork: Colin and Andrea Wood who set up their floating business The Bird Box and Jenny Wren. PHOTOS: COLIN AND ANDREA WOOD

Big decision

barn wall on the farm where it was originally stored. Colin was the marina manager at the time. The location also had special significance for the couple as it was where they originally met, and where Colin proposed to Andrea on the slipway.

A 4 3 - y e a r- o l d nar row b oat was unchartered territory, but the hard work getting it afloat paid off in the end. “This boat was unusual – it had a clinker-shaped Roving traders hull,” recalls Colin of Their eventual move his hedge find which from the marina, off proved to have an interesting background. the River Ure and on He explains how it was to the River Ouse, was believed to be the only prompted by Colin’s new job. narrowboat built by Mr Hayter, an engineer and Man cave: Colin at work in his onboard “Andrea was still working as a care home a pioneer of the rotary workshop. lawnmower. “I bought it manager and I was and took it back to the farm where we were tenant doing gardening, but we decided we wanted to go farmers in North Yorkshire. It was in the shed laid on constant cruising and become roving traders,” says its side. We did just about everything – Andrea was Colin.

The addition of their specially-made 14ft dumb the main painter.”

The idea was to turn the boat into a floating home barge – christened The Bird Box – provided them for him and Andrea, but at 41ft they knew it wasn’t with a warm and cosy stockroom for the Fairtrade big enough. Colin explains they sent it to Hull to clothing they planned to sell. be stretched by 12ft. Once complete, the couple “I have always been into hippy-type and lived at Boroughbridge Marina on the boat they Fairtrade clothing. When I was younger I lived on christened Jenny Wren, after the birds nesting in the the outskirts of Skipton and I used to go into Skipton

On the move: The Bird Box and Jenny Wren floating along the canal.

IN HER first book, All Boats Are Sinking, Hannah Pierce takes readers on a journey from London to Yorkshire, punctuated by two lockdowns during the coronavirus pandemic.

Hannah recounts how she navigated a lifestyle change after the breakdown of a relationship meant she could no longer afford to rent a home in London.

Instead, she invested the money set aside by her parents for a deposit on a house into a 45ft narrowboat the same age as herself – Argie Bargie – and joined the capital’s liveaboard community.

Hannah found her new lifestyle far from easy but with the help of friends and fellow boaters she learnt the hard way, surpassing problems such as the need to move her boat every 14 days, navigating locks and tunnels with the added problems of ‘exploding’ toilets and breakdowns against the background of worries about her job and, subsequently, life in lockdown and redundancy.

Each step along the way is charted with a map showing the route with details of the time taken, distance and number of locks.

For example, her first journey was from the River Thames at Hampton Court via

the Grand Union Canal to the River Lee on the Walthamstow Marshes – the 18 miles 2.5 furlongs with 25 locks taking five months.

Hannah uses diagrams, footnotes and illustrations to explain technical terms, historical details and her own back story, plus lists and pie charts comparing what she thought living on a boat would be like compared with the reality, the most significant difference being the hoped-for 40% relaxing down to 16%.

After three years of boat life, including two months moored in Little Venice and Kensal Rise during the first lockdown from March 2020.

Hannah decided to embark on a marathon canal journey to see her brother and his family in Todmorden on the Rochdale Canal in West Yorkshire.

After navigating the Midlands waterways up to Manchester, her progress was delayed by an abortive journey up the Huddersfield Narrow Canal via the Standedge Tunnel.

With stoppages and

shopping because there are some really funky shops there,” says Andrea.

“We went into that because I am a hippy at heart. We did a lot of research on Fairtrade clothing and found some really good suppliers.”

Keen knitter Andrea, whose hats and socks are among her stock, says they know their suppliers personally, and they also know the money spent on stock goes to worthwhile projects such as supporting children in Nepal.

However, just as they were about to launch the business, lockdown restrictions were imposed during the Covid pandemic. “We couldn’t open because we were selling clothing and not allowed to open,” recalls Andrea. Undeterred, they, like many other businesses keen to continue trading during that time, switched to selling online. They also set up an Instagram page. “That helped us get through Covid,” Andrea explained. They also secured a licence to sell coffee and snacks, and have continued to offer refreshments to passers-by on the towpath.

Once lockdown restrictions were lifted, the couple began trading at boat events and festivals as planned. “People are quite touchy-feely and they like to feel the textures. We have returning customers, they see things online and ask if we will put them away for them so they can have a look. People like the personal touch.”

Bird boxes, boot removers and plaques crafted

by Colin are another dimension to their floating business. Crafting is a winter job for Colin, who can create without interruption in his speciallyadded ‘man cave’ on the front of Jenny Wren. “It’s absolutely great,” says Colin.

The simplicity of the roving lifestyle, seeing the changing seasons and the people they meet along the way, are all part of the appeal of living life afloat. “It’s that sense of freedom where it is sometimes you and nobody else and you can just chill out. It’s getting into that spiritual zone.

It’s good for mental health and it’s good to just chill and just think about nothing,” says Andrea.

Visit www.birdboxandjennywren or search for ‘The Bird Box and Jenny Wren’ on Facebook and Instagram.

over-narrow locks forcing her to turn at Slaithwaite, she switched to the Rochdale Canal with the second lockdown looming.

Interspersed with humour, on-off relationships and encounters with people such as boxer Tyson Fury, All Boats Are Sinking – the title taken from a remark heard along the way – is a diverting and informative read, just the thing for the longer evenings ahead.

All Boats are Sinking by Hannah Pierce, published

by Summersdale Publishing (paperback, 365 pages, RRP £10.99) www.summersdale.com ISBN: 978-1-83799-401-4

Waterways Ireland opens public consultation on Heritage and Biodiversity Plan WATERWAYS Ireland (WI) recently opened a public consultation for its Heritage and Biodiversity Plan 2030, inviting members of the public to have their say to help shape the future of Ireland’s waterways.

The second WI Heritage and Biodiversity Plan aims to: • Prioritise the conservation, protection and promotion of natural, built and cultural heritage along shared waterways, including safeguarding the ecosystems that are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna.

• Support community engagement and education in conservation initiatives to raise awareness about heritage and foster a sense of stewardship and encourage sustainable practices.

• Maintain and develop partnerships and collaborations with stakeholders.

• Carry out research to support understanding of biodiversity and heritage sites.

A number of public information and consultation sessions have already taken place. These began with two online webinars followed by four meetings in Athlone, Coleraine, Dublin and Kildare in September.

Members of the public are invited to review the draft plan and supporting documents and have their say by completing the online survey.

This can be found at: www.waterwaysireland.org The public consultation will close on October 4 this year.

ADVERTISING FEATURE 17

www.towpathtalk.co.uk October 2024

Midlands-based safety training firm has options for boaters of all standards

BIRMINGHAM and Midland Marine Services has been providing water safety and boat training courses to both commercial and leisure users alike since 2013.

Based at Gailey Wharf on the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal, at the top of the lock flight, the business is run by a small team headed by Rich Gray, a Maritime and Coastguard Agency boat master instructor with a background in both commercial, historic, passenger vessel operations and specialist water rescue response.

Initially set up as a training company, now running a variety of courses under the auspices of both the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) and the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA), the involvement of the management and the instructors in both search and rescue sector and blue-light sectors meant that the training portfolio could specialise to include occupational water safety and rescue courses.

These courses are aimed at lowland rescue and at commercial personnel working within three metres of the water’s edge or in the water margins, such as personnel from the civil engineering, construction, maintenance, utilities, rail, ecology and environmental sectors. This type of training is accredited, certificated and audited by the Institute of Search and Technical Rescue and the Outreach Organisation – Outreach Rescue.

Water safety and rescue training courses are DEFRA, HSE and CDM Regulations 2015 compliant, complementing the

looking to ‘work’ on the water.

Both the water safety/rescue and boat courses cover the use of aquatic personal protective equipment (PPE) such as lifejackets and buoyancy aids – commercially you are required to wear such equipment should your risk assessment note the ‘possibility’ of drowning…

Insurance compliance

A training session taking place with Birmingham and Midland Marine Services. PHOTO: SUPPLIED increasing range of specialist courses also on offer, aimed at the non-tidal and non-coastal waterways environment.

Boat-based courses are accredited primarily by the RYA and the MCA, including (but not limited to) workboats, narrowboats, and powerboats. Clients include both the Canal and River Trust, the Environment Agency, their contractors, sub-contractors and third-party works personnel.

Canal and river-oriented training is run from Gailey Wharf Training

Centre, and powerboat and safety/ rescue boat courses take place at the company’s second training centre at the Chillington Hall Estate, on the 60 acre private lake, just four miles from Gailey Wharf.

Leisure or private boaters are more than welcome to join training courses at Gailey, for example, a two-day, RYA Inland Waterways Helmsman Certificate (IWHC) course, although ‘commercially oriented’, is ideal for a wide range of people, not necessarily

Many insurance companies are now requesting that new owners undertake a formally-recognised qualification before being granted insurance coverage, which makes a lot of sense and appears to be becoming more evident. Many novices want to learn the skills they are going to need out on the water, rather like driving a car. Seasoned boaters like to do the courses as they can brush up on existing skills, learn something new and hopefully be able to lose some bad habits picked up over years of boating.

Those groups and families considering booking a boating holiday also benefit from having the skills to be able to boat safely, avoid accidents, and know the procedures for dealing with an incident should it occur – there is no point reinventing the wheel and learning by mistakes if a pleasant two-day training course is available instead.

The RYA Inland Waterways Helmsman Certificate is a great starting point for the non-tidal rivers and the canal network. Commercial

skippers can undertake further Maritime and Coastguard Agency ‘ancillary’ qualifications to upgrade to a full MCA Boat Master’s Licence.

Both leisure and commercial boaters take the accompanying training opportunities, such as an RYA first aid course, covering the likes of cold water shock, the protocol for CPR following a drowning, defibrillation and the wet patient, hydrostatic squeeze and its effects, laryngospasm, crushing, amputation… the essential elements not covered in a non-marine environment first aid course. Many people are just not aware that even a third of a normal breath in, if underwater, breaches the lethal limit for drowning and that cold shock causes swim-failure.

Boat fire safety training, VHF radio (DSC), and various levels of water safety and rescue training keep Gailey Wharf Training Centre a busy place year-round.

Many people and companies looking to work on open water, or the inland waterways are unaware of the licencing requirements to do so; obviously, a vessel must be licenced, but so does the person working on, in or around the water.

If you would like information about the various requirements and training options available then drop the business a line at office@ midlandmarine.co.uk or visit the website for a more in-depth look at the courses and commercial services on offer www.midlandmarine.co.uk

VICES SER VICE S S S HELM E R WAY E T A W LAND LABL RYA I N C T O R S AVA I – G N I U N T TRAI LADY INSTR WBOA – O S R E R S A R N COU

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Birmingham& Midland Marine Services Ltd provide specialist skipper, coxswain & water safety training; Plus: Commercial inland, Open-water marine support to industry.

TRAININ G BOAT TRAINI NG LEISUR E CO MMERCIAL & LEI SURE Helmsman & Powerboat training, plus BoatMaster ancillary courses for Skippers and Coxswains via our Royal Yachting Association and Maritime & Coastguard Agency Programmes. ‘Specialist Rescue Boat’ training for operations outside DEFRA available by appointment.

OCCUPAT IONAL WATER OCCU PATIONAL ESC UE TRAINING SAFET Y & R ESCU ET RAINING Course s delivered vi a the Outreach Re scue and Royal Life Saving S o ciety DE FRA & C DM Re gulations 2015 compliant & H SE endorse d schemes.

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Contact us for more information on 01902 544329 or office@midlandmarine.co.uk

Or visit our website: www.midlandmarine.co.uk

18

October 2024

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Alterations have resulted in more bow seating. PHOTO: PHIL PICKIN

Lowen behold

Phil Pickin looks at what can be done to make a former hire boat into a luxury narrowboat for private ownership, and please excuse the awful pun in the title – he couldn’t resist!

FOR many, the opportunity to own a new narrowboat is the stuff of dreams. Prices are sky-high, waiting lists for build slots are way too long, and the whole process of starting with a blank sheet of paper can be too daunting. But having said this, chances are that many will not want to have a boat that was someone else’s choice of layout and finish, so the only alternative is to opt for a radical refurbishment. In the case of Lowen, the change has been significant, with the result being a very individual boat.

Owners Mr and Mrs Thomas chose the West Midlands-based Perrydale Narrowboats to

The old bunk room, not much appeal.

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

undertake the project. Dave and Nicky Perry have, over the years, built up an enviable reputation for refurbishments like this, which they have undertaken alongside their repair and new build projects. Lowen was to end up being another of these successful projects – a far cry from the boat that arrived in their yard many months earlier. The boat’s owners contacted Perrydale in January 2022 as a result of coming across the company’s website and seeing the case studies of previous refits.

Lowen was inherited by Mrs Thomas from her father and, as a result, it has huge sentimental value as she cherished the times that she and her family spent with him on the boat. Consequently, she was anxious to keep it but with modernisation to suit her family’s needs as she and her husband have four children. Unfortunately, it’s a shame we can’t convey this story in the same way a number of makeover TV programmes do. However, it would be a challenge to produce high-end before and after transitions on paper, so I hope the pictures will illustrate the changes that have been made to this 58ft 6in cruiser stern boat.

The new bunk room, looking stunning.

PHOTO: PHIL PICKIN

Cruiser stern provides plenty of room.

PHOTO: PHIL PICKIN

Original build

Lowen was built by Reeves in 2013 for a major hire fleet operator, but unfortunately it’s not known which one. Suspicion is that it could have been ABC at Alvechurch but this cannot be confirmed.

It was subsequently sold to the current owner’s father, who kept the multi-sleeping format so that extended family members could enjoy it at the same time.

Lowen’s layout is (from the stern) a bunk room fitted with bunk beds to both sides, a walkthrough bathroom, a galley, a saloon, and finally, a front deck area in the bow. Almost everything has been replaced, including the ceiling and insulation beneath it. The replacement is white T&G ceilings throughout, which helps to lighten the interior, which has been painted a dark marine blue. The flooring is bamboo, and the windows have been replaced with double-glazed units. Other major work included moving the forward bulkhead to increase the size of the forward deck area before being fitted with U-shaped seating.

Personal taste

The choice of colour for the interior will not be to everyone’s tastes as it can make the interior feel a little dark, but the use of the pale ceilings, light grey upholstery, and a floor covering that is not overly dark helps to counteract the interior colour. The real contrast comes from the very pale-coloured Dekton worktops, which are said to mimic “the natural metamorphic changes of stone.” The result is a very tactile worktop surface that, I’m reliably informed, can be challenging to work with. Despite this, the result is impressive.

Some clever design ideas have been employed in the saloon to provide seating for relaxing and for use around the double tables that have been designed to lay across the full width of the room if needed. These table tops have been made from some substantial pieces of timber, which makes them both heavy and impressive when in use.

With the newly extended forward deck providing even more seating space, Lowen will likely provide more than enough space for a family with four children. As a result of all this hard work, the team at Perrydale look like they have completed yet another impressive refurbishment to add to the growing list

The old bathroom before, looking rather dated. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

The new bathroom now looks a lot more modern. PHOTO: PHIL PICKIN

19

www.towpathtalk.co.uk October 2024

Boats moored up at the Association of Waterways Cruising Clubs’ 60th anniversary rally. PHOTOS: AWCC

Sixty years and counting!

By Lucy Wood

Main bedroom after, just a few finishing touches required. PHOTO: PHIL PICKIN The main bedroom before the refurb.

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

Technical spec

Length: 58.5ft.

Style: Cruiser stern.

Engine: No change to existing engine other

than a full service.

Flooring: Bamboo planks.

Windows: Channel Glaze, double glazed.

Bow thruster: Vetus 75kg.

Power system: Two 120amp solar panels.

Victron 3kW inverter.

Heating: Morso Squirrel stove. Remaining heating and water heating system retained.

Bathroom: 900x900mm quadrant shower.

Bespoke vanity unit. Heated towel rail, Cinderella toilet.

Galley: Walkthrough with Howdens Chilcomb units in Marine blue with Dekton worktops.

Fridge/freezer, dishwasher, four-burner hob and combination oven and grill. Microwave integrated into units.

Saloon: Two Pullman dinettes that convert into two bench sofas. Drop table, TV on swinging arm.

Builder: Perrydale Narrowboats, Ashwood Marina, Ashwood Lower Lane, Kinver, Kingswinford, DY6 0AQ. Tel: 01384 295535.

Email: info@perrydalenarrowboats.co.uk Website: www.perrydalenarrowboats.co.uk of similar projects.

It is understood that Lowen spent most of its life at Sherbourne Wharf in Birmingham, and it is thought that it could well go back to the Birmingham area now that work has been completed.

The team at Perrydale were keen to point out that, as a result of recent

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

Galley before, perfectly functional but looking rather tired. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

The galley after modernisation, what a difference!

PHOTO: PHIL PICKIN

legislation, used boats having this type of refit also have to have a Post-Construction Assessment on completion. This entails a survey of the boat to ensure that it meets modern fit-for-purpose standards, and as part of this, a new WIN (Watercraft Identification Number) has been issued.

The saloon before Perrydale got to work.

A FLOTILLA of boats from all over England paraded in a rally to mark 60 years of the Association of Waterways Cruising Clubs.

The rally, hosted by Lichfield Cruising Club on August 10/11, was officially opened by chief executive of the Canal and River Trust Richard Parry, who joined more than 100 AWCC members to mark the anniversary.

Initially formed of just four clubs, St Pancras, Dunstable, Lee & Stort, and Uxbridge, the association has expanded over the decades to now include 83 groups which comprise almost all of England’s inland waterways boat and cruising clubs.

Between them, they have about 6000 affiliated boaters.

The AWCC’s founding purpose was to support member boaters when cruising away from home waters, from safe moorings and technical support to family emergencies. This

has changed with the times and the AWCC today represents leisure boaters through a nominated seat on the CRT council and an elected member on the trust’s appointments committee. The association is also represented on the Boat Safety Scheme’s technical, advisory and management committees to safeguard its members’ interests.

At the event, Mr Parry, who was accompanied by the CRT’s boating manager, Matthew Symonds, told guests: “I am delighted to have been invited to the AWCC’s 60th celebrations. It is a fundamental organisation which works closely with the CRT.” More than 100 AWCC members from 20 clubs in 30 boats attended the rally, and some who could not attend by boat due to navigational issues came by camper van or car.

To find out about clubs in your area, visit www.awcc.org.uk

Although more furniture is due to be added, the new layout gives plenty of room in the saloon.

PHOTO: PHIL PICKIN

More than 100 AWCC members attended the celebrations hosted by Lichfield Cruising Club in August.

A presentation was made to Richard Parry, chief executive of the Canal and River Trust, at the AWCC’s 60th anniversary celebration.

Traditional canal crafts sampled by the public at museum event VISITORS tried their hands at traditional canal crafts at an open day at the Canal Museum in Stoke Bruerne.

People had a go at ropemaking and miniature bookbinding as well as watching experts make rag rugs, quilts and traditional patchwork. There was also the chance to make a lace plate, and try painting the iconic “roses and castles” folk art of the inland waterways.

Organised by the Canal and River Trust, the event took place at

the facility in August, which is located next to the Grand Union Canal. It is the country’s first museum dedicated to the history of the nation’s canals.

Andrea Willette, museum duty manager for the CRT, said: “At the Canal and River Trust we work every day to keep our historic canals alive and part of that is celebrating the traditions and historic canal skills that bring so much colour and life.”

Housed in a historic corn mill, the museum is full of interactive displays and collections

The Canal Museum at Stoke Bruerne, which hosted a traditional crafts day recently.

Visitors sampled a variety of waterway activities and skills. PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

bringing to life what it was like to live and work on Britain’s canals.

Visitors to the museum can also take a stroll along the towpath to historic Blisworth Tunnel, explore a woodland walk, or watch the colourful narrowboats go by in the canalside cafe.

For more information about the museum, please visit: https:// canalrivertrust.org. uk/things-to-do/ museums-and-attractions

Traditional roses and castles artwork.

Visitors got the chance to try their hand at boat painting at the Canal Museum at Stoke Bruerne, which hosted a traditional crafts day recently.

20

October 2024

National Heritage Week – A Boatman’s Journey. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

www.towpathtalk.co.uk

Pollagh on the Grand Extension. PHOTO: ALISON ALDERTON

Irish inland waterways groups collaborate during National Heriitage Week

3D animation of 31M. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

The theme for this year’s recently held National Herittage Week was Connections, Routes and Networks, whichh explored the links between people and communities,, what brings us together and what connects us.

By Alison Alderton

PHYSICAL routes that dot the landscape, roads, paths, boreens, rivers and canals remind us that societies have always strived to connect. Ancient winding pilgrim paths, former rail tracks that once linked our towns, waterways facilitating trade; our modern road systems are all examples of connections bringing communities together.

Our natural heritage also offers connections.

Migratory birds create networks and connections between Ireland and parts of Africa and Scandinavia.

Our native species create networks all over the country through hedgerows and river valleys.

A few of the events featured throughout the week included a guided Aquatic Ecology Walk in collaboration with the Tralee Rowing Club (based on the Tralee Ship Canal) and the Tralee Bay Wetlands Ecology and Activity Park; the Industrial Heritage of Corrib and Canals was the subject of a talk and walk hosted by Corrib Beo; the Athlone Canal Heritage Committee screened a series of short films showcasing recent heritage projects the group have undertaken and the Clones Lace Group offered three-day lacemaking workshops in the Ulster Canal Stores.

Water Heritage Day, in partnership with the Local Authority Waters Programme, celebrated water throughout Ireland, its history and heritage and our connections with it. The Office of Public Works (OPW) explored water deities, water spirits and the importance of water to our ancestors during a Water, Bogs and Mythology event held at the Corlea Trackway while the Cavan Adventure

Map of the Grand Canal.

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

Centre held kayak to ours on the Lough Oughter Wateerway System, a Special Area of Con nservation.

A Boatman’s Journey

Waterways Ireland, in collaboration with the Heritage Boat Association (HBA) and the Inland Waterways Association of Ireland (IWAI), held a very special event to celebrate our shared inland waterways heritage. Held at the Offaly History Centre, this included the unveiling of the story map, A Boatman’s Journey, a digital innovation that brings the heritage of the Grand Canal to life by combining various media types including photos, maps, drawings, videos, oral history recordings, interviews, animations and text, to offer a rich, immersive narrative connected through the map.

A Boatman’s Journey invites viewers to explore the Grand Canal’s rich heritage through the eyes of a boatman. The Grand Canal has connected communities, facilitated trade routes, created networks and shaped the cultural landscape of the area since its conception in the 18th century. A standout feature of A Boatman’s Journey is a 3D animation of Barge 31M. This stunning digital recreation allows viewers to virtually step on board, explore the barge’s interior, examine its Bolinder engine and observe a boatman navigating it through the waterways.

Tullamore Harbour 1894. PHOTO: SUPPLIED of heritage boats and Bolinder engines in and around the Tullamore Harbour area. These outdoor displays offered a unique opportunity to see the craftsmanship and engineering that powered Ireland’s waterways in action. Visitors were given the chance to explore the historical vessels and engines up close, gaining insight into the daily lives and experiences of the boatmen who once navigated the Grand Canal.

“Waterways Ireland is excited to partner with the HBA and IWAI for this event, showcasing the Grand Canal’s incredible heritage,” said Martina McCarthy, heritage officer with Waterways Ireland.

“The story map A Boatman’s Journey is a testament to the canal’s historical significance and we are eager to share it with the public.”

Tullamore Canoe Club, Phoenix Angling Club and Offaly Search and Rescue also provided on-water demonstrations.

Heritage boats and Bolinder engines

Heritage barges at Tullamore including 4B, topic of a new book by Eunice Jeffers.

PHOTO: MARTIN MCKEE, WATERWAYS IRELAND

Complementing the story map presentation, the HBA and IWAI showcased a selection

The Bolinder engine on display.

PHOTO: MARTIN MCKEE, WATERWAYS IRELAND

New book

Elsewhere, The Pull Inn, Pollagh, hosted the launch of a new book by Eunice Jeffers. Ireland’s Grand Canal: People, Peat & Porter, centres around research carried out by Eunice for a university thesis and features the history of heritage barge 4B which formerly transported peat for the local Turraun Peat Works.

The barge, once owned

by Eunice, travelled from the Shannon along the Grand Canal, stopping at Pollagh and Tullamore during Heritage Week and

drew in the crowds. Ireland’s Grand Canal: People, Peat & Porter is available to purchase from the IWAI online shop at: www.iwai.ie

Grand Extension

Historian Sean O’Reilly spoke about the history of the Grand Canal, in particular its construction and the extension from Tullamore, once the terminus, to Shannon Harbour, which was built in order to move British troops from Dublin to the River Shannon to engage in any French invasion. The Grand Extension was passed in Parliament, London, by William Pitt and in 1802 Clonony Barracks housed 2000 troops, for the defence of the canal, which was the biggest corridor in the British Isles.

IWAI launched a new incentive for boaters who travel the 22 miles of the extension. They can now obtain a special passport which is stamped in Tullamore and in The Harbour Masters B&B on their return to Shannon Harbour, entitling them to receive a Grand Extension Certificate of Recognition.

Heritage Week 2024 may be over but there is plenty of information on the website to inspire further activities and exploration in which all the family can partake.

Find out more at: www.heritageweek.ie

Shannon Harbour horse and ferry.

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

www.towpathtalk.co.uk October 2024

21

22

October 2024

A celebration of heritage

www.towpathtalk.co.uk

WHAT’S ON IN OCTOBER

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.

For the rest of September, throughout October and until November 9 Stafford riverway link artefacts exhibition

The display of artefacts unearthed by SRL volunteers. Wombourne Library: Wombourne Community Centre, Church Road, Wombourne, Staffordshire, WV5 9EZ. Wombourne Library is close to the Bratch on the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal.

October 6 Northern Canals Association: Autumn conference with visit to

Montgomery Canal.

IWA Towpath Walks Society: Regent’s Canal: King’s Cross – Granary Square – St Pancras. King’s Cross: Taxi queue sign next to Pret a Manger at 2.30pm. Normal charge £20; concessions, students and accompanied children 16 and over £15; 8-15 £5; under 8s free. Booking recommended, contact London Walks: 0207 624 3978 or email: london@walks.com

Boats line the towpath at Bratch Lock. PHOTOS: STEVE HUSSELBEE A FANTASTIC time was had by all at the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal Society (SWCS)’s third Annual Rally of Boats.

Visitors had the chance to see historic working boats up close and discover more about the Bratch Locks and how they work at the event on August 31/ September 1 at The Bratch, Wombourne.

There was also the opportunity to take walks along the towpath to enjoy the moored boats and floating traders,

More traditional canal art on show at the rally.

see Bumble Hole Lock, chat with i h Canal C l and River Trust staff and volunteers, and also meet the many canal societies championing their own canals and heritage.

The navigation is 250 years old. It fell into disuse during the 1950s, was revitalised by the SWCS, and now has Green Flag accreditation and is a designated conservation area.

Visit www.swcanalsociety.co.uk for more information.

A NCA spokesman said: “The Montgomery Canal has had so much happening, both recently, and over the past years, there are also challenges for the future – and solutions. We plan to visit the rebuilt Schoolhouse Bridge, Vyrnwy Aqueduct, Carreghofa Locks, the dropped Williams Bridge and organise a work party to do channel lining at Crickheath.”

The Montgomery Canal, which links England and Wales, closed to boating

anniversary. A talk to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the reopening of the Caldon Canal by Steve Wood. 7.45 pm for 8pm prompt start. Stoke on Trent Boat Club, Post Lane, Endon, Stoke-on-Trent ST9 9DU. October 18 IWA Lichfield: Canals of the eastern USA by Pete Gurney. Darwin Hall,

Heathcot Place, Lichfield WS13 6RQ, 7.15 for 7.30pm.

October 19-20 Etruria Industrial Museum: Autumn steaming at the museum on the

Caldon plus Trent and Mersey canals at Stoke-on-Trent. The museum will be open from 10.30am and the engine and mill running between 1pm and 4.30pm.

Stourbridge Bonded Warehouse: Open weekend from 10am until 5pm.

Canal Street, Stourbridge, West Midlands, DY8 4LU

Canal art on display.

October 20 IWA Towpath Walks Society: Regent’s Canal: King’s Cross – Hitchcock’s

Closing the Shropshire Gap top of canals meeting agenda RESTORATION work along the Montgomery Canal will be among many things discussed at the Northern Canals Association (NCA) October meeting.

Hosted by the Shropshire Union Canal Society and held at the Llanymynech Village Hall, SY22 6EE, from 10am - 5pm on October 6, the NCA will look at the recent work and future challenges for the stretch of historic water.

October 11 IWA North Staffordshire and South Cheshire: Caldon Canal 50th

in the 1930s following a serious breach of the banks near Frankton Locks in Shropshire. It was never repaired and was left to decline. Restoration started in 1969 and has continued with the reopening of 20 miles of canal and 35 miles of towpaths.

For more information please email: northern.canals2021@ btinternet.com

Hackney. King’s Cross: taxi queue sign next to Pret a Manger at 2.30pm.

Normal charge £20; concessions, students and accompanied children 16 and over £15; 8-15 £5; under 8 free. Prior booking recommended, contact London Walks: 0207 624 3978 or email: london@walks.com November 3 IWA Towpath Walks Society: Route: Regent’s Canal: Little Venice

-Camden. Start at (tube station) Warwick Avenue at 2.30pm. Normal charge £20; concessions, students and accompanied children 16 and over £15; 8-15 £5; under 8 free. Prior booking recommended, contact London Walks: 0207 624 3978 or email: london@walks.com November 8 IWA North Staffordshire and South Cheshire: TBA, Stoke on Trent Boat Club,

Post Lane, Endon, Stoke-on-Trent ST9 9DU.

November 15 IWA Lichfield: The Suez Canal by John Parry. Darwin Hall, Heathcot

Place, Lichfield WS13 6RQ, 7.15 for 7.30pm.

New £50,000 passenger boat will take its first guests on an East Midlands waterway next year

A NEW narrowboat designed to carr y passengers up and down the River Slea in Lincolnshire will launch next spring.

The £50,000, 30ft Benjamin Handley will take

The Benjamin Handley sits on the River Slea in advance of its internal fit-out. The boat will take visitors on the river from next spring.

PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

12 people between The Hub in Sleaford and Cogglesford Watermill as part of history trips which will deposit guests so they can explore the market town.

The boat was recently lifted into the water so the internal fit-out and crew training can take place over the coming months.

It has been funded by the Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund and North Kesteven District Council, and is the brainchild of the Sleaford Navigation Trust.

The £130,000 total includes some river dredging, a new landing stage and crew training.

Chairman of Sleaford Navigation Trust Chris Hayes said: “It’s really exciting to see our boat, Benjamin Handley, in Sleaford and we look forward to being able to welcome people on board next year.”

Any surplus funds generated when the boat starts operating will go directly back to

its maintenance. The trust is also hoping more volunteers will help with the work and is encouraging people to share their skills.

The River Slea will also be cleaned up in advance of the launch and a new landing stage built at Cogglesford Watermill.

North Kesteven District Council leader Coun Richard Wright said: “The narrowboat will offer an entirely new experience; allowing people not just to enjoy part of the Slea

by boat but also to hear all about the ways in which the Slea Navigation brought prosperity and growth to the area after it originally opened in 1794.

“The trips will require the lifting bridge to raise for the boat to pass underneath, which will add another dimension.

It’s also an invitation to explore nearby Navigation House – an original canal company office thought to be the only one of its kind still in existence – and to

The Benjamin Handley is lifted into the River Slea.

delve even further back into local history at Cogglesford Watermill where stone milling is powered naturally by the river.

“After disembarking there’s of course food and drink, leisure, shopping, history and more in Sleaford town centre to complete your visit, and the narrowboat also opens up opportunities for community and educational use led by the trust.”

It’s hoped that the boat can also be utilised for organised school or group trips to take in all of the heritage along the river as one joined-up experience. The trips are not about making a large profit, rather just enough to sustainably manage the maintenance costs while bringing visitors to the river and into the town.

The UKSPF funding also provides for training for the boat’s crew, and clearance in autumn of an excess of silt and vegetation along the route. This will also enhance the Slea riverbed,

The Benjamin Handley sitting in the River Slea with chairman of Sleaford Navigation Trust Chris Hayes and North Kesteven District Council leader Coun Richard Wright. The boat will take visitors on the river from next spring as part of a historic trip from The Hub in Sleaford and Cogglesford Watermill. increasing the flow of the water which better supports fish to spawn. A new landing stage will also be built at Cogglesford Watermill.

The boat will be going at a very slow pace and will operate only within set times – initially just on the weekends, and in

warmer weather – to avoid disturbance to the river and the wildlife along it.

To find out more about the project please visit: www. sleafordnavigation. co.uk

www.towpathtalk.co.uk October 2024

23

24 MARINAS & MOORINGS

October 2024

TPIF

www.towpathtalk.co.uk

CAEN HILL MARINA • 248 berths located on Kennet & Avon canal • Near to Devizes Wiltshire

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

WINTER 2024/25 MOORINGS SPECIAL OFFER FOR TOWPATH TALK READERS 6 mon moonnttthhhss for foor the thhe pric prr ice ce off 5 Valid for November only

(Please quote – TPW11 for this special offer)

T: 01380 827062 E: caenhill@land-water.co.uk

SHAKESPEARE MARINA • 250 berths located on river Avon • 10 mins walk from Stratford-upon-Avon • Rise and Fall pontoons • Waters & elec hook ups to each berth • Free wi-fi • Laundry • Showers

PLUS FOR BOOKINGS OF 3 MONTHS OR MORE, RECEIVE:

FREE Welcome Breakfast for two at our award winning The Boathouse Cafe*

• Fuel sales • Pump out • Lakeland Leisure boat brokerage T: 07714 095005 E: shakespeare@land-water.co.uk

NORTHWICH QUAY

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

www.whitemillsmarina.co.uk

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

*For full terms and conditions, please visit our website

Our boat yard facilities are located canal side, on the main line outside the Distillery

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

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

Prime mooring’s in the centre of Birmingham’ Canal system. Secure site, with all services available, and easy access to the lively city of Birmingham.

Just a 2 minuet walk, to the fantastic night life of Restaurants, clubs and bars, Places of interest, the International Convention Centre, also known as the ICC, off the famous board street, in Birmingham, the new library, the Cresent theatre, The Ikon gallery for art, all just a short walk away, 3- 4 minutes, All public services are available from the streets outside and you can jump on the tram from Board street. Wolverhampton, or to new street. The choice is yours.

Mooring in sherborne wharf, is quiet and peaceful, with long term residents, who have established a life here in the Marine. We are an established Company, who have been here in Birmingham for over 30yrs, friendly neighbours who get together and enjoy summer evenings on the towpath socialising, sharing the evening sun and a drink, responsibly, Service’s are based on the main line outside the round house and Distillery Pub, with a small chandlery, coal, diesel, Gas and pump out availabe on a daily basis, please note pump outs are not allowed after 11.30am, the facilities are small but can supply you with what you need.

We have no onsite parking, however parking can be found, to rent with in the access to the site and around the Marina privately.

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

CONTACT US ON 0121 455 6163 FOR ANY ENQUIRES

MARINAS & MOORINGS 25

www.towpathtalk.co.uk October 2024

PYRFORD & HARTFORD INLAND MARINAS

PROTECT YOUR BOAT THIS WINTER WINTER MOORING OFFERS ON THE RIVER WEY & RIVER GREAT OUSE With premium marina facilities and two fantastic locations, we have the perfect place for your boat to see out the winter months as safely and conveniently as possible.

Protect your boat from flooding and cold weather, as well as gaining access to the warm, friendly boating communities at Hartford Marina on the River Great Ouse or Pyrford Marina on the River Wey. Whether you have a narrowboat, widebeam, barge, or river cruiser, our facilities are ideal for all. Take advantage of our short-term winter tariff to protect your boat this season.

CONTACT US TODAY TO BOOK YOUR WINTER BERTH

HARTFORD MARINA, RIVER GREAT OUSE

Onsite parking Electricity and water to your berth Launderette, showers and toilets Staff onsite 7 days a week Onsite or closeby restaurants Easy transport links to major towns and cities PYRFORD MARINA, RIVER WEY

01480 454677

01932 340739

hartfordmarina@tingdene.net

pyrfordmarina@tingdene.net

At the heart of the Shropshire Union

TTouring ouring Park park

Holiday LWagons odges Glamping

Long and short term moorings

www.overwatermarina.co.uk

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

fully serviced moorings engineering workshop cafe

26 MARINAS & MOORINGS

October 2024

We’re moor than just a marina!

Competitive prices

Workshop*

Fantastic facilities

Rubbish disposal

Choice of 5 locations

Electricity & water

Expert friendly staff

Laundry

Community events

Pump out

Licensed cafés*

Safe, secure moorings

On-site chandlery*

Leisure & residential*

www.towpathtalk.co.uk

WINTER MOORINGS now available

*Services and facilities vary at each marina, please check each marina website for full details.

Annual moorers are eligible for our Rewards Club!

ewards Club

An exclusive membership providing exciting benefits to our valued customers.

Any annual moorer, lodge owner or park resident with Lakeland Leisure Estates is eligible to download their digital rewards card and enjoy access to discounts, offers and experiences that enhance every visit, including: - Roam Free between our marinas - 15% off River Canal Rescue - 10% food and drink discounts - 5% off Midland Chandlers online - Discounted stays and spa offers - Partner discounts

MARINAS & MOORINGS 27

www.towpathtalk.co.uk October 2024

EAST MIDLANDS BOAT SERVICES - WILLOW MOORINGS

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.

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

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. 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

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

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

Hill Farm Marina

South Stratford Canal 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....

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

• 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

28 MARINAS & MOORINGS

October 2024

www.towpathtalk.co.uk

Discover Our Idyllic Retreat & Enjoy Summer With an abundance of wildlife, peace, tranquillity and our experienced team on hand, you can relax and enjoy your own little piece of heaven.

Secure your berth on the Llangollen Canal, the most beautiful canal in the country!

Call 01270 524571 or email sales@swanleybridgemarina.com Swanley Bridge Marina, Springe Lane, Swanley, Nantwich, Cheshire, CW5 8NR - www.swanleybridgemarina.com

Northampton Marina

The ideal location for exploring East Anglia’s Waterways

Call us on 01604 604344 or 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 Find us on Facebook: Northampton Marina

Nestled alongside Becket’s Park, Northampton Marina has a secluded, countryside feel whilst being within easy walking distance of the train station and town centre with its many shops, bars, restaurants and theatres.

Located at the junction of the River Nene and the Northampton Arm of the Grand Union Canal, it is ideally placed for exploring both Anglian Waterways and the wider canal network.

Offering boaters a friendly stay with access to a great choice of cruising routes.

Our award-winning facilities building is open to all marina customers, including washrooms, laundry, pump-out and Elsan disposal point. All of our berths have access to water and electricity. Our landscaped grounds provide a relaxing recreation area with BBQs and picnic tables.

We offer permanent, visitor and winter moorings.

You can also purchase your Anglian Waterways boat licences and navigation keys from our full time Site Officer.

Why not make Northampton Marina the base for your next boating adventure?

MARINAS & MOORINGS / PRODUCTS & SERVICES 29

www.towpathtalk.co.uk October 2024

FRADLEY MARINA

Blisworth Marina

07941 167 087

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

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

HAREFIELD MARINA HAREFIELD MA ARINA

Bridge 180, Grand Union Canal, Harefield UB9 6PD Tel: 01895 822036 muskmarine@hotmail.com www.harefieldmarina.co.uk

For Boat Sales please visit our website

Facilities include:- Chandlery - Pump out - Slipway - Boat sales/ (up to 65ft) brokerage - Covered wet dock - Engine inboard/ - Water and electric outboard repairs points - gas and coal - Diesel

Blisworth Arm NN7 3FG www.blisworthmarina.co.uk info@blisworthmarina.co.uk 01604 879827

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

One days cruising from the Thames.

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Prepare for the boating season 9” x 6” Chrome Louvre vent £19.95. Other sizes available.

Rain caps and chimneys available from stock

Integrated fridge - £742.00, Integrated freezer - £740.00 delivered

4 x 4 ltr Elsan Blue £65.00

Mooring accessories in stock

30 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

October 2024

www.towpathtalk.co.uk

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 31

www.towpathtalk.co.uk October 2024

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NEW 500 PAGE CATALOGUE OUT NOW

Calls to the catalogue request number cost 7p per minute plus your telephone company’s network access charge. Calls may be monitored. All prices correct at time of going to press. We reserve the right to change products and prices. All products subject to availability, E&OE.

32 PRODUCTS & SERVICES

October 2024

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Boat Maintenance & Repair Work Undertaken Fully qualified, experienced and conscientious staff, providing quality work at a fair price.

Traditional boatyard, with traditional values

Boat painting, hull blacking, surveys, engine servicing, repairs, gas safety check, boat safety certification, batteries, pump out, diesel and gas

One stop shop for all your boating needs

Trevor Basin, Llangollen Canal, Denbighshire, LL20 7TT - 01978 821749

TRADITIONAL NARROW BOAT PAINTING.

Whixall Marina, Llangollen Canal, Shropshire, SY13 2QS – 01948 880996

FULL REPAINTING OF YOUR NARROW BOAT FROM £250 per foot incl. VAT.

TURN TO

Extras that can be added to the package:

Our basic painting package includes: • Free ‘no obligation’ quotations and recommendations to meet your requirements.

• Planning and scheduling to fit in with your prior arrangements (where possible).

• Traditional painting ‘with a brush’ of complete cabin and down to the ‘top guard iron’.

PAGE 52 T

O VIEW RANGE OF OUR BOAT FOR SALE S • Bare metalling of gritted areas.

• (Re) gritting of cabin top and gunwhales.

• Graining/scumbling.

• Diamonds and geometrical patterns.

• Top bend/return plate decoration.

• Traditional canal art (Roses and Castles).

• Signwriting.

• Hatch and slide decoration.

• Varnishing.

• Mouse’s ears/teddy bear on rear bulkhead.

• Painting of counter bands.

www.norburywharfltd.co.uk

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

Bookings for all aspects of work now being taken for 2024/2025

www.kateboats.com 01926 492968

Great Haywood, Trent & Mersey Canal, Staffordshire, ST18 0RJ – 01889 881711 Bunbury, Shropshire Union Canal, Cheshire, CW6 9QB - 01829 260957 Wootton Wawen, Stratford Canal, Warwickshire, B95 6BZ - 01564 793427 Bradford on Avon Marina, Kennet & Avon Canal, Wiltshire, BA15 1UD – 01225 864923

anglowelsh.co.uk

PRODUCTS & SERVICES 33

www.towpathtalk.co.uk October 2024

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

COMBINATION RESCUE LADDER/GANGPLANK

Have you fallen into the water and struggled to get out?

Most accidents happen in or around locks.

Getting out of the water is hard with wet heavy clothes.

The bank sides are high and no hand holds to get out.

This versatile lightweight (LADDER-MATE) stores securely on your roof with the free ladder lock supplied. £125 + £30 p&p to any location on UK mainland or free collection (Please call us)

A FULL RANGE OF CLEANING PRODUCTS

Brass-mate (Brass polish) Miracle Wax Polish (Boat polish) Wash’n’Wax (Shampoo) Miracle Brass Brite (Tarnish Remover) Weather-Mate Gel (Brass Protection) Port Hole Mask (Magnetic)

Cotton Stockinette (Cleaning Cloths) Canopy Klean Bilge & Hull Cleaner Full range of Tiller Pins

BROLLY-MATE

Hands-free attachment that slides over the tiller bar.

This is an attachment that slides over the tiller bar when it is raining and you can pop the brolly in the top of the tube secured by a thumb screw.

Choice of sizes.

from

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

£25 + p&p

PROP-MATE Keeps your weedhatch clear

Half cleaned mushroom

£22 + p&p

Woodworks Boat Fitting Bespoke boats to any stage of completion • Repair and alteration service Wheelhouses and dogboxes made to order

VISIT OUR WEBSITE

PLEASE NOTE:

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

01827 313334

info@elitefurnishings.co.uk

NARROW FURNITURE FOR NARROWBOATS

www.boat-fitting.co.uk www.boat-fitting.co.uk New photos, videos and information added Unit 72, Road B, Boughton Ind. Est. New Ollerton, Notts. NG22 9LD 01623 860 553 email: info@boat-fitting.co.uk Proprietor: Andrew C. Hooke B.A. (Hons)

Your needs . . .

Seagoing

Saildrives

Inland Waterways

Marine Generating Sets

Spares & Support

36 years of customer centred focus, listening to needs and delivering long term value solutions.

Specialists in customer advice and support at all points of a products life.

Superb after-sales service via our network of approved engine installers and spares stockists.

D I E S E L

14 to 98 HP Greenline keel cooled diesel propulsion engines with mechanical or hydraulic gearboxes. Full hydraulic drive option available.

Super silent acoustic housings, 3.5 or 5.0 kVA travel power and bow thruster options available.

REDUCE CO2 BY 90%! Compatible for continuous use with HVO fuel.*

H Y B R I D

*If other FAME bio fuels are used or mixed we strongly advise use of our alternative fuel kit option. Available for new or retro fit-able to existing engines.

43 to 98 HP Greenline keel cooled diesel propulsion engines with single or twin 48v hybrid electric drive motor/generator(s).

E L E C T R I C

NEW Beta 14 E-Drive, 14kW constant electrical propulsion power.

Fully integratable with 48v battery management inverter charger systems.

Fully integratable with BetaGen/BetaSet generators.

5 year self-service warranty, recreational use only terms & conditions apply.

. . . our tailored solutions delivering reliability and peace of mind

www.betamarine.co.uk

Tel: +44 (0)1452 723492 Email: sales@betamarine.co.uk

34 PRODUCTS & SERVICES

October 2024

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Hempsted Historic Dry Dock 50% OFF UP TO

DRY DOCK SPACES E AVAILABL !

W O N CALL

ANODES W ALL HULL BL ITH & ANTIFOUL ACKING ING. FOR A QUOT CALL ATION TODAY

• Hull Blacking & Antifouling • Fabrication & Repairs • Painting & Sign Writing • Electrical • Plumbing and Gas • Paint and Boat Care • Inboard & Outboard Servicing • Fenders and Ropes • Engine Spares & Repairs

Visit us and see the largest Indoor working dry dock and well stocked Chandlery on the Gloucester and Sharpness Canal You’ll find us just 1 mile along the canal from Gloucester Docks or at

338 BRISTOL ROAD, GLOUCESTER GL2 5DH

01452 415430

Email: office@hhdd.co.uk www.hempsteddrydock.co.uk

moorings • boat sales chandlery • marina services

at www.eveshammarina.co.uk

Eurocruiser

£174,950 ex vat

• 60’ x 12'6" • 2 Berth • New Boat

NEW PRICE

A New one bedroom Eurocruiser features include, Bow thruster, Wheel steering, Navigation Lights, Quartz work surfaces and optional extras fitted include, A dishwasher, A wine cooler, Rear canopy and an impressive skylight.

A mooring, residential or leisure is available if required subject to T's and C's

Cruiser Stern Narrowboat £134,950 • 60’ x 6’10” • 2 Berth • New Boat

MOORINGS THAT ARE SAFE & SECURE WITH EXCELLENT FACILITIES FOR BOTH LEISURE & RESIDENTIAL

NEW PRICE

visit www.eveshammarina.co.uk Evesham Marina Kings Road • Evesham • WR11 3XZ info@eveshammarina.co.uk

01386 768500

A New one bedroom reverse layout narrowboat with an extended cruiser stern, Upgrades on this boat include a stern seating and an L shape dinette, A mooring is available if required subject to T's and C's

PRODUCTS & SERVICES 35

www.towpathtalk.co.uk October 2024

REALDIESELS LISTER-PETTER DIESEL ENGINES AND SPARE PARTS SPECIALIST

UK’s Largest stock of Lister-Petter engines and gearboxes.

Unrivalled knowledge, experience and after sales support.

• CHANDLERY / SERVICING • RED DIESEL / GAS • COAL / LOGS • ELSAN / PUMP OUT • POLY TUNnEL HIRE • HOLIDAYS

Having your tired old engine or gearbox repaired?

In the long run our options are likely more cost effective: Reconditioned service exchange or recondition your existing unit; Factory low hours and good used units also supplied.

All engines and gearboxes are supplied fully tested and with warranty. If yours is past it’s best, call or email us to find out more.

+44 (0)121 377 6029 mail@realdiesels.co.uk www.realdiesels.co.uk

www.WARWICKSHIRENARrOWBOATHIRE.coM / TELEPHONE: 01926 411911 J.D. BOAT SERVICES GAILEY LTD

MOoRINGS AVAILABLE NOW

The Wharf, Watling St, G ai l ey, St aff s ST19 5PR 01902 791811 enq@j dboat s.co. uk www.j dboat s.co. uk

Spe c i a l i s in g i n b o a t r e s t or a t i on a n d r e p a ir Cab i n Re f i t s • W o o d wo r k • Pai n t wo r k • St e e l wor k

Engi nes • El ec tr i c s • So l a r Pa n e l s • Hy br i d Pr opul s i on Har d s t a n d i n g • DI Y f a c i l i ti e s • St o r a g e

smlmarinepaints.co.uk

01285 862 132 SCAN FOR MORE INFORMATION

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SAVINGS ON ALL PREMIUM PRODUCTS FORMULATED FOR THE ULTIMATE PROTECTION & FINISH

OUNT

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36 PRODUCTS & SERVICES

October 2024

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.

Annual membership from only £30.00.

The Residential Boat Owners’ Association Studio 2 Waterside Court Third Avenue Burton on Trent DE14 2WQ

Sponsored by All Wills and Trusts.co.uk

L R I N A arine E T m S

FOR ALL YOUR BOATING NEEDS TRANSFORM YOUR BOAT

Refit, repair, replace, renew!

OVER 35 YEARS’ EXPERIENCE BUILDING & REFITTING BOATS We work with our clients to achieve their vision Contact us for a no obligation discussion

Does your boat need servicing?

Here at MGM Boats Ltd we can offer

• Hull steam cleaned and blacked • Blasted and 2pk blacking systems • Anodes, supplied and fitted • Welding work undertaken • Covered dock for any DIY work can be booked, inc painting.

• Slipway can be booked for maintenance work, such as rudder repairs, stern tube replacement & also surveys (By others) • Engine service & electrical work • We sell Calor 13kg propane gas

Call 01162 640009 or email: mgmboatyard@gmail.com (New website under construction)

Upper Soar, Leicester. LE4 8AF

www.towpathtalk.co.uk

Engine Service – Fixed Price £185.00 inc VAT (Using our own stock filters)

Call 01299 877222 for details

DISTRIBUTORS & STOCKISTS FOR MAJOR BRANDS FULL BOAT YARD SERVICES

ENGINE REPAIR, SERVICING, REPLACEMENT ALL MARINE ENGINEERING SERVICES ELECTRICS, WATER, GAS, HEATING INSTALLATIONS DIESEL, GAS, SOLID FUEL & PUMPOUTS

FOR YOUR CHANDLERY NEEDS

Hebden

A comfortable seating solution for limited space!

Fully pocket sprung | sofa or sofabed | including modular footstool space saving | two seating positions for optimal comfort.

Simple & Stylish Space Saving Solutions for Narrowboats!

01274 800334 • info@sofabedbarn.co.uk

www.sofabedbarn.co.uk

OIL, FUEL, AIR FILTERS & BELTS ENGINE SPARES, ANTIFREEZE & COOLANTS BATTERIES, INVERTERS, ELECTRICAL SPARES FULL RANGE OF DECK & CABIN FITTINGS ALL SPARES & CONSUMABLES

DIESEL TREATMENT PRODUCT

HANKOOK BATTERIES

ELSAN PRODUCTS

ENGINE LANE, STOURPORT, WORCS DY13 9EP 01299 877222 enquiries@starlinenarrowboats.co.uk Open: Mon/Fri (8.30am to 4.30pm) Emergency breakdown: 01299 877222 - 7 days a week

PRODUCTS & SERVICES 37

www.towpathtalk.co.uk October 2024

WHAT’S IN THE BOTTOM OF YOUR FUEL TANK?

FOR MORE INFORMATION Magnet filter bowl

Rust on magnet

Rust & diesel bug on magnet.

07974 808277 bruce@tankbusters.co.uk www.tankbusters.co.uk

Ag e fue nts r ca l cl equ ll f ea ire or nin d de g for tai – ls

Used one micron filter bag & 100ppm water removal filters with saturated diesel being filtered

Increasingly, customers are complaining that after having their tanks cleaned by a competitor and still experiencing breakdowns.

They turn to Tankbusters who upon inspection, discover that the fuel still contains water/diesel bugs and rust!

Tankbusters filters down to one micron and removes water to 100ppm. Filtration begins with a magnet removing larger rust particles, followed by fuel and other contaminants being filtered through a 1-micron filter bag.

Water is then removed to 100 parts per million (ppm) using Tankbusters’ own filtration equipment.

WHEREVER YOU GO, YOU CAN COUNT ON EBERSPACHER TO KEEP YOU WARM

DIESEL HEATING FOR BOATS Servicing Spare parts Technical Help System Design

HYDRONIC HS3 D4E HEATER This latest heater is now in stock. 4.3kW output and only 1.3kW at low, ideal for narrowboats.

Kits from £1795.00

LEADING UK SUPPLIER OF EBERSPACHER HEATERS & SPARE PARTS

HYDRONIC D4WSC EXCHANGE SERVICE For only £560.00 receive one of our factory reconditioned units when you send us your old, non functioning D4WSC or D5WSC*.

*Service exchange T&Cs apply

CALLSTART APP

Control your heater through your phone

Easy installation. Simple on/off.

Run time settings. iPhone & Android SMS notification. £159.00 SIM not included.

Espar Ltd T 01752 491900 web@espar.co.uk www.eberspacherdirect.com www.espar.co.uk

38 INSURANCE & FINANCE / PRODUCTS & SERVICES

Over 10,000 claims paid to 100% owner satisfaction

£40,000 £50,000 £60,000 £70,000 £80,000 £100,000 £150,000

from from from from from from from

October 2024

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£72.00 £85.00 £99.00 £107.00 £115.00 £155.00 £235.00

Lowest rates for qualifying owners www.newtoncrum.com

01424 718800

65 years of excellence, providing better boat insurance.

Authorised & regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority # 307035

Narrowboat insurance made easy Boats have been our passion for over 20 years, so we understand the joys and challenges of owning a narrowboat. Get a quote online today with our simple process, and see how much you could save.

Shared ownership the affordable way

Get an online quote today craftinsure.com

Ownashare manages a fleet of narrowboats which operate on a shared ownership basis.

This means that owners of 1/12th shares can enjoy at least 3–4 weeks’ holiday afloat each year, school holiday weeks are available at a small premium.

www.ownasharecruising.co.uk

15131

Tel: 07800 902323 for more details

call 0345 2607 888 SCAN ME © Copyright Craftinsure Limited 2024. Craftinsure Limited is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, Firm Reference Number 309693. Registered in England and Wales Number 04386107. Registered office: The Royals, Altrincham Road, Manchester M22 4BJ. Policies available to UK residents only. Trustpilot rating correct as of 04/09/24.

39

www.towpathtalk.co.uk October 2024

Day Boats: Going green Moor and store options

P40 Holidays and Leisure P41 Tech: Water ingress

P42 P44

Green-fingered winners of 2024 Aquavista in Bloom announced

Aquavista has announced Cropredy Waterside and Marina as its winner of the Outstanding Overall Site of its Aquavista in Bloom 2024 awards, sponsored by Towergate Insurance.

THE moorers at Cropredy came up with a creative idea for an outdoor living room adorned with an array of plants and flowers and a working lock, aptly named Lock Keeper’s Cottage, home to Locky the scarecrow.

The display which uses upcycled furnishings, has also been put forward as the marina’s entry into the Cropredy Scarecrow Trail competition. A bingo afternoon and quiz helped raise money towards the living room which is now a great community space for the crew and moorers alike to spend time and relax.

The competition, now in its second year, was launched in April with Aquavista inviting its 29 marinas to accept the challenge of creating stunning floral displays to provide lovely spaces for their customers, visitors and crew this summer.

Towergate Insurance supplied branded watering cans and packets of sunflower seeds, with the challenge

ONE of the UK’s oldest boating businesses has been sold to a neighbouring firm which has hinted boat building may begin again.

Broom Boats, based in Brundall, Norfolk has been sold to nearby hire business Horning Pleasurecraft.

The new owners have plans to expand the business, which started in 1898, and potentially start boatbuilding again.

Horning Pleasurecraft owners Clive and Victoria Richardson operate Horning Marina on the River Bure and Cove Marina – almost next door to the Broom site.

Clive Richardson said: “Building Broom

Waterside and Marina Tallest sunflower: Trinity Waterside and Marina [5ft 8in]

North region: · Outstanding Tubs and Hanging Baskets:

Nottingham Castle Waterside and Marina · Outstanding Upcycle Project: Sawley Waterside and Marina · Outstanding Creative Display: Kings Waterside and Marina · Special recognition customer award:

Rob at Kings Waterside and Marina

South region: · Outstanding Tubs and Hanging Baskets:

Locky’s outdoor living room! PHOTO: SUPPLIED to see who could grow the tallest.

The w i n n e r s, announced at Aquavista’s national managers’ meeting, were awarded their pr izes, tro phi es and certificates by Elisa Hadland, head of partnerships at Towergate Insurance.

As the overall winner, Cropredy Waterside and Marina also won £250 towards a party for its crew and customers to celebrate their win.

A special extra prize was also awarded to a moorer from each region to recognise their outstanding contribution to the competition.

Operations director

at Aquavista, Mark Wanless said: “We have experienced overwhelming interest and support towards the annual Aquavista in Bloom campaign.

“I am personally filled with immense joy and pride when our crew teams and customers come together to bring our marinas to life through environmental initiatives, turning our spaces into a wonder of vibrant colours.

“We have seen further ingenious upcycling ideas and themed planters, from Olympic rings to an automated flower band, the whole campaign has once again showcased what makes our marinas

Norfolk hire base may resurrect 125-year-old boat building tradition

By Tim Greenfield

Winners in all categories

Outstanding Overall Site: Cropredy

Boats at Brundall again is a real possibility. I’ve been in the Broads boating and boat building business all my life. “ We’v e been developing the Horning Pleasurecraft business over the last four years, starting with a hire fleet of three boats and a team of engineers and boat builders at Horning and adding Cove marina in 2021. “ We w e re n ’ t actively looking for another marina at the time the Broom opportunity presented itself, but it was on our doorstep and the size of the site, together with the extensive hire fleet and facilities, makes it a fantastic fit for us.

“We have plans to improve and fill the

moorings, expand the private work and service division as well as maintain the quality hire fleet.”

Founded in 1898 by the Broom family, Broom Boats has many decades of boat building, repairs and holidays. It was also a key player in the Dunkirk evacuations in 1940.

It currently operates as a marina and has 24 luxury boats for holiday hire, as well as six available for day hire.

The boatyard also continues to offer repair and maintenance services.

For more information about Broom Boats, visit broomboats.com and for more about Horning Pleasurecraft, visit https:// broadshols.co.uk

Packetboat Waterside and Marina · Outstanding Upcycle Project: Priory Waterside and Marina · Outstanding Creative Display: Portavon Waterside and Marina · Special recognition customer award:

Caroline at Royal Clarence Waterside and Marina Midlands region: · Outstanding Tubs and Hanging Baskets:

Trinity Waterside & Marina

· Outstanding Upcycle Project: Kings

Bromley Waterside and Marina

· Outstanding Creative Display: Brinklow

Waterside and Marina

· Special recognition customer award:

Ange at Wigrams Turn Waterside and Marina special places to be.”

Elisa from Towergate Insurance added: “Towergate is really proud to continue the sponsorship.

“It’s amazing to see how the marinas are continuing to develop their gardens with various themes and unique ideas. The engagement with the berth holder community is so great to see”.

Ally Stubbs, Julia Constantine, Caroline Collins, Joanne Barker and Di Jeffrey at Hettie and Sid at Mercia Marina Boardwalk. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

It’s child’s play for expanding kids’ store at Mercia Marina YOUNG boaters have a new fun shop to experience at Mercia Marina Boardwalk in the East Midlands.

Hettie & Sid is a newlyrevamped gift and toy store at the Derbyshire waterway hub that stocks traditional and sustainable toys and crafts, as well as textiles, clothes and nursery decorations.

The new lowered sales counter, which sits alongside a full-height pay station, together with the mini shopping trolleys, will provide an educational experience for the children as they make their pocket

money purchases.

Owner Joanne Barker said: “We wanted to create an engaging space for all. A place where children can come and enjoy browsing and shopping just like their adult companions.

“It should be a fun learning experience and if youngsters want to pay for their purchases themselves, they can step right up and do so at a ‘their size’ counter.”

The Mercia Marina store is the largest of three stores, with the others in the Sherwood Art and Craft Centre, Edwinstowe and one at Sudbury Courtyard.

Robert Neff, general manager at Mercia Marina, said: “It’s so great see Joanne’s business expanding.

She is a wonderful asset to the marina’s shopping experience.

“As Derbyshire’s largest waterside marina attraction, we provide the whole package when it comes to a destination venue with a range of shops, restaurants, bar, beauty salon – and even a fine art gallery.

“All this alongside our boating and mooring heritage, wildlife area and holiday lodges. Plus, we have further plans ahead.”

The longest living leisure batteries?

A BOAT owner may have the oldest surviving leisure batteries.

The owner, who has a Viking 36 cruiser on the River Nene, said the Numax leisure batteries finally died after 15 years of use – long past the expected five year life.

The man, who said he used the batteries to power his

boat’s fridge, lights and water pump, contacted Numax supplier Ecobat with the good news. He said: “With a service life of around 15 years a piece, I certainly can’t complain that I haven’t had my money’s worth and naturally I’ve replaced them with another couple of Numax XV31MF batteries, which I’d obviously

recommend to other owners of similar vessels!”

Andy Wa i t e, of manufacturer Ecobat, said: “It’s great to receive positive feedback and it goes to prove not only are Numax batteries a quality product, but that, as we’ve always promoted, battery maintenance and care will maximise their service.”

All change at Bottom Lock in Braunston

After 28 years of running The Boat Shop, Fred and Carol Barnes are retiring, which has given an opportunity for Clare and Will Hewitt to take over this unique canalised shop.

THE Boat Shop is situated by the bottom lock of the Braunston flight on the Grand Union canal and is an Aladdin’s cave of canalware, books, provisions, freshly baked organic bread and of course ice cream.

Fred and Carol haven’t gone far, they now live in the village and have been a great support to Clare during the transition from being a gardener to becoming a shop owner.

Clare and Will have a great love of the canals, as do their children who both own their own narrowboats. They have lived locally all theirs lives, spending time in Braunston and the nearby village of Willoughby, so are well known in the area; this has already been shown by the support they have had in their new venture by friends and family.

Clare has a background in the gift industry and specialised in sales throughout the midlands. Once

Clare and Will are looking forward to welcoming customers new and old in their quirky little shop.

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

restricted to passing over the canal by road on route around the country, she is now thrilled to be involved with her own

waterside enterprise. Being in charge of her own canalised business has brought her two passions together.

“The character and charm of the shop is unique and the opportunity to meet new people and hopefully make their visit to the Braunston locks special never stops to appeal to me. Whether it a gift for a friend or a stroll up the locks with an ice cream. We are here to serve.”

The shop will continue to supply boaters with provisions and supplies.

Coal, sticks and logs will be a wellneeded addition to the shop’s stock over the winter and the introduction of a coffee machine. Gifts and canalware (hand painted by Will) will remain the main focus of the shop as there aren’t many like this left on the system.

They will still be taking postal orders for the popular brass bridge plaques by phone 01788 891310 or email shop@ boatshopbraunston.co.uk

40

October 2024

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Beacon Park’s cycle boat. PHOTO: SUPPLIED Right: Day boats help to reconnect with nature. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

Day boats: a green introduction to the waterways

Phil Pickin looks at the growth of day boats and their role in the continued move towards decarbonising the waterways.

DAY BOATS have long been a part of the overall hire fleet on the waterways, providing an ideal way to not only spend some time on the water but also as something of an introduction to the waterway system.

Over the past few years, more and more day boats have entered service, and many of these have been powered by electric motors. With day hire only allowing the boats to travel shorter distances, in addition to the need for the boats to return to their respective hire base each evening, makes day boats ideal for electric propulsion.

Beacon Park Boats

One hire fleet that regularly has more customers than boats available is that of Beacon Park Boats, Paddleboards are a popular way to get afloat if you don’t mind based in Llangattock on the Monmouthshire and Nothing beats messing about on the canal. PHOTO: SUPPLIED getting wet. PHOTO: SUPPLIED Brecon Canal near the town of Crickhowell in Phil James, senior R&D engineer at Barrus, told with the canals. It also provides families with the Wales. The company has operated day boats for more than 23 years alongside a holiday hire fleet, Towpath Talk: “The advantage of this type (of motor) opportunity to mess about on the water, something and currently there are eight boats in the day boat is they work well in shallow water as they don’t use that is often out of reach for most. With a fleet of fleet fitted with lithium batteries and Shire EZ a fancy expensive prop (which often break). They holiday hire boats, the opportunity to introduce electric outboard supplied by Barrus. These boats use a mercury compatible aluminium prop, which visitors to the canal system, and thereby hopefully can accommodate six or eight passengers and are means in shallow water they don’t break, they just gain more bookings, can’t be overlooked. However, as Alasdair pointed out, he would like to increase the equipped with all the necessary safety equipment eventually wear out.”

He went on to say that Barrus has “hire fleets and size of the fleet, but unfortunately, a lack of space and covers for inclement weather.

Beacon Park’s director, Alasdair Kirkpatrick, said commercial operators that have had them in use for doesn’t allow for this.

Beacon Park’s day boats have a distinct that the company has been working with Barrus more than 2000 hours”. environmental advantage over many other electric for a number of years to Many benefits day boat fleets, of which there are many. With a refine the design of the motors to better equip According to Alasdair, sizeable solar array on the roof of Beacon Park’s them to cope with the day boats have proved to boat house that charges an in-house battery bank, demands of their use on be not only popular but the boats can be charged each evening with the day boats on a canal. In also provide a number power harvested from the sun during the day. addition to the extensive of benefits that might Even on a dull day, these solar panels can produce prop guards, Alasdair otherwise go unnoticed. significant quantities of power, ensuring that the said that the motors These include providing recharging can be almost entirely ‘off-grid’.

Another family prepares to take to the use toothed belt drives families with an water. rather than shaft drives. introduction to the Green credentials This reduces lubrication waterways, which can Undoubtedly, one of the most significant things PHOTO: PHIL PICKIN requirements and helps sometimes provide about the use of electric day boats, or electric when replacements are Plenty of room even if the weather turns. a starting point for a boats in general, is the lack of noise and, just as PHOTO: PHIL PICKIN needed. long-term relationship importantly, the reduction in CO2 emissions and other pollutants from conventional engines.

But it isn’t just the electric day boats that offer these; Beacon Park also has a cycle boat, which, as its name suggests, is propelled by the efforts of those on board to pedal to provide the drive to the propellor. This, along with paddleboards and an electric-powered former Thames launch, means the climate-conscious boat user can choose a number of different ways to get afloat without creating any carbon emissions.

With more marinas and hire fleets seeing the advantages that can come from offering day-hire to get people out on the water, we can expect more boats to appear in the future. Let’s hope that this not only encourages people to make full use of the canal system but to do so in a sustainable and responsible way. For more information on the range Staff making sure everyone is briefed on of day boats on offer from Beacon Park Boats, visit using the boat.

A few of Beacon Park’s fleet of day boats. PHOTO: SUPPLIED www.beaconparkdayboats.co.uk PHOTO: PHIL PICKIN

www.towpathtalk.co.uk October 2024

Mooring or storing? That is the question

41

Phil Pickin looks into the options available for boat owners over the winter months.

AT THIS time of year, many boat owners will have already made arrangements for their boats for the coming winter. Inspections, blacking and repairs will undoubtedly have been scheduled, but for some, the opportunity to put the boat on hard standing for an extended period isn’t one for them.

I’m thinking mainly about liveaboard boaters who would normally continually cruise. But for some who are both continuous cruisers and who have homes, the opportunity to lift the boat out for six months is a real advantage. This is of particular interest to the small minority of boat owners who cruise during the summer, only to head off to other countries to live during our winter.

Moor and store

This particular ‘moor and store’ plan was developed

by Aqueduct Marina in Cheshire and provides several advantages, not least of which is the opportunity to carry out inspections and blacking while the boat is out of the water. Although the marina charges for storage, the cost can be somewhat offset by paying CRT for a six-month licence.

For those who haven’t seen the details, Aqueduct’s Moor and Store plan is an option that allows boat owners to store their boat securely out of the water, licence-free, while it is not being used. When the owner is ready to go cruising again, the marina staff will put it back into the water. Plans are available for six, nine or even 12 months, with each plan including a number of slip uses. With engineers on site, the opportunity provided by plans of this type to have the hull blasted, inspected and blacked while in storage is obvious.

What is less obvious is why this type of plan isn’t being promoted by a number of other marinas? Many do offer storage facilities on their websites along with details of their conventional mooring fees etc, but it doesn’t seem that many are actively looking to promote the storage of boats on their premises.

Tailor-made package

The use of a slipway can, in some cases, be factored into the storage plans offered to boat owners. PHOTO: PHIL PICKIN and other services linked to out-of-water storage, and they continue to do so with more developments in the offing. However, with Mike’s philosophy of ‘not half doing’ anything, it may be some time before any official announcements are made. He added that since CRT went over to monthly licences, the interest in winter storage has grown.

As the representative for the Canal and River Trust told us: “Once a boat is out of the water, a licence is not required.” They went on to say that there are no rules regarding the storage of a boat on private land, and certainly none with respect to boat licensing.

Drystack

When you look at coastal marinas, the concept of boat storage is far more advanced, with facilities on offer for boats to be literally stacked on racking systems that are accessed by forklifts. Drystack is one such company that offers this type of storage to boat owners after the concept of this type of boat storage

We spoke to Mike Goode, MD of Debdale Wharf, based at Kibworth in Leicestershire, whose marina increased its hard-standing capacity by 20 boats around two years ago. Mike told us that their approach is more towards offering a tailor-made package that allows the boat owner to pick and choose what services they will make best use of, rather than offering fixed packages.

Like Aqueduct, Debdale too has its fair share of boat owners from the southern hemisphere who benefit from the opportunity to store their boats out of the water over winter.

Debdale has invested Storage provides an ideal opportunity for work to be significantly in security carried out. PHOTO: PHIL PICKIN

began in New Jersey in the US many years ago, with some companies even offering to wrap your boat up for you in the winter.

This might not be the type of service your average narrowboat owner would be interested in, and the thought of stacking narrowboats up in a yard is one that Working on a boat in storage is not only safer but more could easily give you environmentally friendly with spillages more able to be controlled nightmares, but the on land. PHOTO: PHIL PICKIN idea of storing your boat for winter is seen as more ‘normal’ on the coast, becoming ever more unpredictable, it makes you it would seem. With winter storms more likely to wonder if the opportunity to store your boat in this cause havoc to GRP hulls that lay unprotected at way will become increasingly popular in the years the coast, this is another reason for coastal boat ahead. Moor and store services also allow marinas owners to want to protect their investments, but with limited mooring capacity to effectively increase maybe there is something waterways boat owners the number of boats they have on the books even can learn from this? when mooring capacity is limited.

Although schemes like this may not interest Availability the majority of boat owners, some do find the The availability of a mixed storage and mooring option of building in storage and slip usage with plan is dependent on the availability of space. Not their annual mooring agreement ideal. And even all marinas have the space available to enable them if their chosen marina doesn’t offer a tailor-made to offer this service, and for others, it would seem package, most marinas will offer to create a plan that some don’t feel the demand is there for them that works for them. With interest in this type of to do so. This is something that is borne out when agreement showing no signs of diminishing it will searching for services available on various marina be interesting to see if others begin to offer and websites. However, with our very seasonal weather market similar packages in the future.

Old and new boats take advantage of storage on dry land. PHOTO: PHIL PICKIN

Nell, stored and painted. PHOTO: PHIL PICKIN

Boats stored on hard standing.

PHOTO: PHIL PICKIN

Storage facilities are ideal for boats no longer in the first flush of youth. PHOTO: PHIL PICKIN

42 HOLIDAYS & LEISURE

October 2024

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Bridge on the Union Canal. PHOTO: JANET RICHARDSON

The Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal. PHOTO: JANET RICHARDSON

Top eight canal boat holidays for 2025 FROM rural retreats to vibrant city centres, narrowboat holidaymakers can explore Britain’s peaceful 3000-mile network of inland waterways, with the choice of hundreds of waterside destinations and historic canalside pubs to visit along the way. Drifters Waterway Holidays (drifters.co.uk) offers over 550 boats for hire from 45 locations across England, Scotland and Wales. Here are Drifters’ Top eight canal boat holidays…

Cruise to Castlefield Basin in Manchester and visit the Hard Rock Cafe

On a week’s break from Drifters’ narrowboat boat hire base at Acton Bridge near Northwich in Cheshire, boaters can cruise to Manchester and back, enjoying time in the countryside as well as the city.

The return route travels 54 miles, two locks (one each way) and takes around 18 hours. The route travels along a section of the Trent and Mersey Canal and through the Preston Brook Tunnel. Boaters then join the lock-free Bridgewater Canal, cruising through the Cheshire

countryside and the historic village of Lymm. Then it’s on through Stockton Heath and Sale, past the Manchester United football ground, Salford Quays and the Old Trafford Cricket Ground. In Manchester, boaters can moor up at Castlefield Basin, within easy reach of city centre attractions, including the Hard Rock Cafe.

Navigate to the UNESCO World Heritage City of Bath

On a weekend break from Drifters’ base at Hilperton near Trowbridge in Wiltshire, boaters can travel along the Kennet and Avon Canal to Sydney Wharf, on the edge of Bath City Centre.

On the way, the route passes through the medieval town of Bradford-on-Avon, with a choice of independent shops and restaurants. The canal crosses the magnificent Bath stone aqueducts at Avoncliff and Dundas with spectacular views of the Bath valley.

Once at Sydney Wharf, boaters can moor up and take a 15 minute walk into the city centre. The journey to Sydney Wharf and back travels 24 miles,

passes through two locks (one each way) and takes around eight hours.

Travel through the Scottish Lowlands to Edinburgh

On a four-night break from Drifters’ canal boat hire base at Falkirk, canal boat holiday-makers can cruise along the Union Canal to Edinburgh and back. The trip starts with a passage through the Falkirk Wheel, the world’s first rotating boat lift. Pubs to visit along the way include The Bridge Inn at Linlithgow and The Bridge Inn at Ratho. Visitor moorings are available at Edinburgh Quay, just a five-minute walk from Princes Street. The journey to Edinburgh Quay and back travels 64 miles, passes through six locks (three each way) and takes around 22 hours.

Cruise through the Aire Valley and up onto the Pennines

the valley of the River Aire and through the villages of Kildwick, Bradley and Snaygill.

At Skipton, boaters can moor up to explore the town’s castle and have a great choice of places to eat. Three miles on through the hills, the route reaches Gargrave on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Further along at Bank Newton, there are seven locks that take boaters up onto the Pennines, then on through East Marton and Greenberfield.

At Barnoldswick, there’s a choice of places to eat and the Pendle Way to explore. The journey travels 38 miles, passes through 30 locks (15 each way) and takes around 22 hours.

Around the Droitwich Ring

Starting from the Drifters’ base at Worcester, this circuit can be completed on a four-night mid-week break.

The route cruises the Droitwich canals through Droitwich Spa and sections of the River Severn and Worcester and Birmingham Canal. Route highlights include: Vines Park in Droitwich; the ancient village of Salwarpe; Diglis Junction; and views of Worcester Cathedral.

The journey travels 21 miles, passes through 33 locks and takes around 16 hours.

Glide across the UNESCO World Heritage Pontcysyllte Aqueduct

On a week’s break from Drifters’ narrowboat hire base at Trevor on the Llangollen Canal in North Wales, boaters can cruise to the historic town of Whitchurch and back. The journey includes crossing the 38-metre-high Pontcysyllte Aqueduct to enjoy incredible views of the River Dee valley. Places to eat along the way include: The Pontcysyllte Chapel Tea Room at Trevor; the Bridge Inn at Chirk; the Boathouse at Ellesmere; and the Black Bear at Whitchurch. The journey to Whitchurch and back travels 52 miles, passes through four locks (two each way) and takes around 25 hours.

Boat through the Staffordshire and Shropshire countryside to Market Drayton

On a week’s break from Drifters’ narrowboat hire base at Autherley, canal boat holidaymakers can cruise along the Shropshire Union Canal to the historic town of Market Drayton,

On a week’s holiday from Drifters’ base at Silsden in West Yorkshire, boaters can cruise along the Leeds and Liverpool Canal to Barnoldswick and back.

The route takes boaters along

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Boat through the Brecon Beacons to Llangynidr

On a weekend break from Drifters’ base at Goytre near Abergavenny, boaters can cruise along the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal to Llangynidr, enjoying spectacular views of the River Usk valley and Brecon Beacons National Park. Pubs to visit along the way include: The Bridgend Inn at Govilon; the Bluebell Country Inn at Crickhowell; and the Horseshoe Inn at Llangattock.

The journey to Llangynidr and back travels 32 miles and takes around 13 hours. There are no locks along this route.

For more information about Drifters boating holidays call 0344 984 0322 or visit www.drifters.co.uk and for information about visiting the canal network go to www.canalrivertrust.org.uk

Enjoy a peaceful and tranquil holiday on the pictureseque Fenland waterways

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home of the gingerbread man.

The route takes boaters through the Staffordshire and Shropshire countryside and a series of deep cuttings where time stands still. Pubs to visit along the way include: the Bridge Inn at Brewood; the Hartley Arms at Wheaton Ashton; and the Junction Inn at Norbury.

The journey to Market Drayton and back travels 53 miles, passes through 14 locks (seven each way) and takes around 24 hours.

The Falkirk Wheel. PHOTO: JANET RICHARDSON

HOLIDAYS & LEISURE 43

www.towpathtalk.co.uk October 2024

Autumn breaks AS THE vibrant colours of autumn take hold, there’s no better time to escape to the water.

Autumn brings a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal time for a late-season Le Boat holiday.

As the summer crowds disperse and the pace of life slows, these months offer the perfect conditions for a peaceful retreat. Whether it’s soaking up the last warm rays of the year or embracing the crisp air and colourful landscapes, a Le Boat holiday caters to every type of traveller, from those seeking adventure to those craving relaxation. Some of the last-minute autumn itineraries include:

Re-discover the Thames, England

Starting from Le Boat’s base in Benson, nestled at the tranquil, rural end of the Thames, the journey begins amidst rolling countryside, farmland and villages. A six-hour cruise westward brings you to the historic city of Oxford.

Here, they can indulge in afternoon tea with panoramic views at the Ashmolean Dining Rooms, followed by a visit to the stunning Grade II listed Sheldonian Theatre to enjoy a show. Heading east from Benson, after another leisurely six hours on the water, guests will reach Basildon Park. This grand Georgian mansion, set within 400 acres of historic

parkland, was featured in the iconic period drama Downton Abbey. With daily house tours offering insights into the filming, it’s a must-see for history and film enthusiasts alike. Mooring near Beale Park, the group can easily walk up to this historic gem for a day of exploration.

Explore the beautiful waterways of Flanders, Belgium

One of Le Boat’s most popular destinations is the region of Flanders in northern Belgium, which bursts into colour during the autumn. Here holidaymakers can explore the beautiful coastal lowlands, which are a haven

for seabirds and beachgoers. Cruisers start and finish at the Le Boat base in Nieuwpoort, allowing them to take in the historic cities of Ypres, famous for the beautiful ‘Halle aux drapes’, and Bruges, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with countless museums and excellent restaurants to explore.

Enjoy the waterways of Canal Du Midi, France

Take a trip along the Canal du Midi, with several starting locations holidaymakers can traverse more than 150 miles of scenic waterways along the 17th century network of canals that connect the Atlantic to the Mediterranean.

Dock and discover the stunning 17th century Château Paraza, built in 1615 by Monsieur Ricquet, the château, nestled in the Languedoc region, is family-run

The Caylus Bridge, reflected in the Canal du Midi, France.

PHOTO: CHRISTIAN FERRER. CC BY 4.0

The plump Argentinian prawns we enjoy, which are branded as shrimp and available at Morrisons. PHOTOS: KEVIN THOMAS

Moorings at the top of Neptune’s Staircase just outside Fort William on the Caledonian Canal. PHOTO: KILMALLIE. CC BY-SA 2.0 and features a luxury B&B and a local tapas bar. Ideal for romantic winetasting getaways, immersed in history.

delicacies such as flammekueche and baeckoeffe, washed down with wine from the local area.

Explore the historic AlsaceLorraine region, France

Be part of Highland history with Le Boat Caledonian Canal

Beginning from Le Boat’s base in Hesse, guests can discover the picturesque Alsace-Lorraine boating region, choosing from three options based on preference. If travelling westward, guests can cruise through the deepest lock in France to Nancy, known for art nouveau and grand baroque art and architecture. If heading north, there is the option to explore cosmopolitan Saarbücken in Germany. Choosing east will allow guests to experience the iconic boat lift at Arzviller and journey on to Strasbourg, the home of the European Parliament. Holidaymakers can try

Mussels in a half-shell always complement a prawn dish.

Argentinian prawns on a cool night

By Kevin Thomas

WHEN our days shorten and the early winter chill makes itself felt, perhaps an evening of plump Argentinian prawns will gladden the heart.

At the risk of promotional advertising, although certainly without intent to do so, we normally shop at Morrisons because it is convenient and the variety and prices suit our budget. We also pay a visit to Lidl for the same reason – budget, and variety.

One of Lidl’s main attractions for us from around October through to February, was the Argentinian prawns. There were slightly less than 1kg in a pack, and cost about £9. More importantly, and because they were only available for a five-month period, it indicated sustainable yield harvesting from the deep Atlantic. As a committed wildlife conservationist, I am fully supportive of the sustainable yield concept when it comes to the utilisation of natural resources on our already over-utilised planet Earth. And

In Scotland, Le Boat operates on the historic Caledonian Canal, which connects the North Atlantic with the North Sea. The 62-mile passage runs from Loch Linnhe to the Moray Firth, with boaters able to explore the beautiful waters between Fort William and Inverness, including Loch Ness.

Holidaymakers can explore the region, and enjoy hilltop castles, quiet waterside towns, cosy pubs, whisky tastings, and beautiful scenery. And for those in search of something a little more active, there are plenty of opportunities to moor up and go mountain biking or white-water rafting.

then, in 2022, come October, the particular type of prawns from Lidl which we liked, for some reason became unavailable.

Those Argentinian prawns had always been a favourite Saturday evening meal of ours, accompanied by a good wine. While on the subject of wine, our purchases have always been guided by the sage advice once given to us by a respected South African winemaker: “The cost of the wine has nothing to do with the quality. If you like a £4.50 bottle of wine it’s a good wine.” A truism. In our case, however, it’s more a question of our tight budget keeping us liking ‘good’ £4.50 wine brands. When we periodically purchase a six-quid bottle of wine, we really feel we are splashing out, and savour the moment. With prawns, my preference is a Pinot Grigio, although I also like Portuguese Mateus Rose. Either brand goes well with shellfish. Bren stays with red.

Normally a Merlot.

With prawns being the subject of this article, I won’t waffle on about wine. Facing an autumn or

Chilli and garlic in olive oil are ideal for adding to the dish, once it has been served. Bren adds the chopped parsley to the prawns while she is sautéing them.

winter without our favourite Lidl prawns would make us both rather irritable over weekends. It was bad enough not to be able to BBQ due to inclement weather, but to go without prawns would be torture.

Thankfully, one Saturday morning while in Morrisons, we stopped for a quick peruse of the fish section and there they were. Plump Argentinian prawns, which although branded differently, and less than a kg, certainly made up for it in size. They seemed abnormally large and were sold on one of those three for £10 deals, so we promptly bought three packages of prawns and for another four quid a packet of cooked mussels in the half shell.

That evening, and while I marvelled at how she does it in Sabi Star’s relatively cramped galley space, Bren worked wonders with the prawns and mussels. The end result was a meal fit for kings. We each had a good serving of plump, succulent, sautéd prawns on a bed

of spiced rice, with the half mussels in a cream garlic and lemon sauce. We also had fiery bird’s eye chillies in olive oil, and chopped garlic in olive oil to drizzle over our prawns and mussels. Add to that a nice wine, and a wet blowy winter night aboard a narrowboat soon becomes a treat.

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Some of the prawns in the pan while being sautéd.

The half-shell mussels in a creamed garlic and lemon sauce, ready for serving.

One of our favourite Saturday night meals aboard Sabi Star during winter.

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44

October 2024

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Don’t become a rescue statistic Narrowboat, Old Lady, with her roof just visible. PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

As we move into autumn, the experts at River Canal Rescue are reminding boaters to take some precautionary measures to protect their boats against sudden downpours and changes in water levels.

THE surge of storms hitting the UK earlier this year resulted in River Canal Rescue (RCR) responding to more major incidents in the first three months of 2024 than it did for the whole of 2023; 155 major incidents between January and March against a total of 121 last year.

Precautionary measures

RCR managing director Stephanie Horton told Towpath Talk that boats either couldn’t cope with the deluge of rain or were unable to rise in line with increasing water levels due to too tight ropes.

In the case of one callout, a boat sank after trying to turn in strong currents. It ended up listing and catching a tree stump where water overwhelmed the vents.

A number were also swept downriver when flood waters and

flow increased, depositing them, semi-submerged and miles from their home location.

Stephanie explained: “While not all situations can be avoided, owners should check their mooring ropes are loose enough to cope with sudden changes in water levels, and if a mooring is at risk of flooding, run a rope to locations that can still be accessed even in a flood situation.

“To stop a vessel drifting on to land when water levels rise, position a scaffold pole or poles, or a boarding plank, between the boat and the river/canal side edge and fix it into position. This acts as a mooring post, preventing flood waters from floating the boat on to land.

“Always think when mooring up what could happen; will you need additional mooring lines (if so, rig them so you can adjust from the boat

and get on and off easily). If on a river known for its strong flow, investing in chains is an option, but more importantly, moor to something that’s strong enough to hold 20 tons of boat.”

Water ingress

It’s not only the weather, however, that causes water ingress; badly worn deck boards and leaking stern glands are also key contributors.

Stephanie said: “Engine bays covered by marine-ply deck boards are supported by a C-shaped steel channel with drain holes to collect any seeping rainwater. If the drain holes are blocked with debris, leaves and dirt etc, then water flows over the channel sides into the engine bay.

“Over time, the wooden deck boards decay, creating a wider gap between them, and so the downward spiral continues; more debris falls into the channel holes and more water flows into the engine

bay. Prevent this by replacing worn deck boards and clearing drainage holes.

“If a stern gland leaks when the vessel is stationary, it can flood the engine area.

As this collar of rubber or brass forms a barrier where the propeller shaft exits the hull, it must be well-greased with tight packing. The grease should act as a seal while not in use and you can tighten it by adjusting the nut on the stern tube.

“If greasing and tightening the adjust bolts fails to slow the leak, the packing may need replacing. Address this fast; a quick build-up of water will cause the vessel to sink – even if you have a bilge pump, it will soon be overwhelmed.

“When the propeller shaft is turning, a stern gland should only leak a few drops a minute (dependent on age and type).

Water must circulate through the stern gland to keep it cool. If you’re unsure what adjustment to make, check the stern gland temperature; if it’s too hot, the packing’s

too tight. Water build-up in the engine bay will cause the vessel to sit lower in the water, which in turn puts shower, sink or air outlets nearer to the water level, often with devastating results.

“Water ingress should not be a problem if you have a bilge pump. If possible, invest in an automatic one as it’s more reliable than a manual. Once left on the ‘automatic’ setting, its float switch dictates when it should pump, ensuring an immediate response to water ingress.

“Should a leak develop from elsewhere, such as the cooling system or hull, it will keep your vessel safe. However, if you’re leaving your boat for long periods you do need to regularly check the battery.

“If you have a bilge pump, install an environmentally friendly bilge filter, such as Bilgeaway – this stops your boat pumping pollutants into the waterways and is a condition of the Boat Safety Scheme.”

Investment planned as Fazeley Marina sold WATERWAY contractor The RothenGrouphascompleted the purchase of Fazeley Mill Marina in Staffordshire from ABC Leisure, allowing it access to the vast Birmingham canal network.

Fazeley Mill Marina will see improvements and repairs to its moorings, and other facilities, according to Rothen managing director Ian Rothen.

“Fazeley Mill Marina marks a significant new chapter for The Rothen Group. It is already a

popular spot for mooring, given its central location and local amenities, and we are excited to start work on bringing improved facilities to its users.

“As a company, we are very passionate about protecting the UK’s historic canals and waterways.

“We will therefore be using the marina as a new strategic base to enhance our operations, bringing us closer to Birmingham and hundreds of miles of critical canals.”

Located at the junction of the Birmingham and Fazeley Canal and Coventry Canal, the 2.2 acre marina will provide a crucial new foothold close to the busy Birmingham waterways, allowing the company to continue its work in servicing and maintaining the UK’s canals.

The Rothen Group provides a variety of services, from lock maintenance and bridge repair to weeding boats and tug hire.

The Rothen Group

acquired Fazeley Mill Marina from ABC Leisure Group, which owns and operates 17 inland waterway marinas across the UK, with all the associated services.

Carl Onens, managing director of ABC Leisure Group, said: “As part of our strategy to focus on inland waterway marinas for holiday lettings, we believe The Rothen Group’s plans for Fazeley align with the best interests of both the marina and the wider UK waterways network.”

Old Lady, being pumped out by the rescue team.

Electric engine maker teams up with world famous yachting race ELECTRIC power company ePropulsion has announced a new partnership with the America’s Cup. The Southamptonbased firm, which makes ele ctr ic motors for leisure boats, will provide power for the race’s AC Bot, race markers which p rov i d e boundaries for sailors and spectators in the oldest sailing competition in the world.

Danny Ta o , ePropulsion chief executive officer, said: “We’re delighted to partner with America’s Cup to power these innovative race marks and elevate the climate consciousness of this competition. “ePropulsion is dedicated to promoting and furthering sustainability on all fronts, and we’re very pleased with this opportunity to do so with the AC Bot and

America’s Cup.” The company produces the Navy Series electric outboard motors. It provides efficient and clean power for aluminum fishing boats, dinghies, daysailers and cruising sailboats, and suitable for salt and freshwater.

They use E-Series Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries which are perfect for smaller vessels with minimal interior storage space.

Waterway contractor, The Rothen Group, has bought a Fazeley Mill Marina in Staffordshire from ABC Leisure Group and promised new investment at the site. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

Tributes paid to first chief executive of the CRT THE man who is credited with creating and leading the Canal and River Trust, Robin Evans, has died.

Mr Evans was the first chief executive of the trust, having previously served as the boss of British Waterways.

Current trust chief Richard Parry said Mr Evans led the team which successfully created the new organisation in 2012.

“Robin was able to navigate through all the political hurdles to successfully create and launch the Canal and River Trust in July 2012,” said Mr Parry.

“His leadership, vision and tenacity was instrumental in this, the culmination of years of painstaking effort and skillful negotiation. A year later he stepped down from his role, having seen the new

charity fully established and the long-term future for our canal network secured.”

Mr Parry added: “We all owe him a debt of gratitude for creating the great organisation we are a part of today.”

Robin Evans, the first chief executive of the Canal and River Trust.

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

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46 BUILDERS

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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

‘X R&D Boatbuilders’

Come and see us at Unit 67, Road A, Boughton Industrial Estate, Boughton, near Newark, Notts. NG22 9LD D 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 combined experience

48 BROKERAGE

October 2024

I N T R O D U C I N G

W AT E R LO D G E Let's go

Discover a new way to live on the water.

Our two-bedroom Waterlodge luxury floating homes are now available at Sawley Waterside & Marina, from £175,000.

Along with its contemporary interior, you’ll enjoy special waterside views sitting on the roof terrace of your new Waterlodge. There’s an on-site café and friendly crew always on hand to help too.

To find out more about luxury living on the water, please call us on 01455 249000 or email boatsales@aquavista.com.

www.towpathtalk.co.uk

BROKERAGE 49

www.towpathtalk.co.uk October 2024

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

BOAT OF THE MONTH

SOLD

SHUGLEY

£49,950

57ft, 1991, North West Narrowboats. A reluctant sale of a very well cared for craft, one owner from new.

Mitsubishi engine, solar panels, central heating, recent hull survey. 10/6/4 steel spec.

SIGRID

TA-RA-A-BIT

£38,500

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

SARAH JANE

£64,950

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

£48,500

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

RAIN DOG TRANQUILLITY

£37,950

45ft, circa 1997, Ron Lloyd, traditional.

£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!

REDUCED CAVALIER

£24,950

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

SOLD

SANDPIPER £50,750

50ft, 1992, Marque Narrowboats.

A well presented 2 + 2 berth semi trad, with recent hull survey. This would make an ideal live-aboard for a couple or a well appointed cruising/holiday boat.

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

50 BROKERAGE

October 2024

www.towpathtalk.co.uk

Your Boat • Our Expertise Over 28 years of experience selling individually inspected, well presented boats from your own mooring anywhere in the UK, or from our base at North Kilworth Marina, LE17 6HY

NEW AND READY TO TAKE AWAY

42’ cruiser, traditional layout, electric propulsion £140,000

60’ semi cruiser, reverse layout, diesel propulsion £155,000

70’ trad with traditional layout, diesel propulsion, full refurbishment £109,950

Whether you are buying or selling our website is packed with information and updated daily

LOOKING FOR A NEW CUSTOM-BUILT NARROWBOAT? WE WOULD LOVE TO DISCUSS WITH YOU BUILDING YOUR DREAM BOAT! COMPLETION FOR SUMMER 2025

BUYING A USED BOAT

Standard fee of 6% + VAT with a loyalty discount for returning customers

Pre purchase & hull surveys. Insurance and Valuation Surveys

07963 974793

www.ovationboats.co.uk Unit 5 Redhill Marina, Ratcliffe on Soar, Nottinghamshire. NG11 0EB

01788 822 115 • admin@abnb.co.uk

Staniland Marina, Lock Hill, Thorne, Doncaster DN8 5EP

Tel: 01405 816992 www.stanilandmarina.co.uk On the Stainforth & Keady Canal, convenient for all waterways in the north

Soar Valley - Galaxy Class 60 – 2018 60 x 12 Soar Valley Steel Boats Galaxy Class Widebeam. Vetus 65hp.

Constructed in standard 10-6-4 steel, this liveaboard cruiser is ideal for a couple downsizing. £139,995 he is

a

oa 1.5

Staniland Marina Boats For Sale

Tim Tyler 50’ Narrowboat. Louis & Joshua Lined and owner fit out in good order. 2 berths, ideal for couple to cruise the waterways. Blacked September 2024, ready to go! Located Boroughbridge Marina. Viewing essential! £47,995

Dunstons of Thorne - 61 Sheffield Keel – 1952 Sheffield Keel by Dunstons of Thorne. Powered by a 4cyl 4L BMC with a PRM Gearbox. Over-plated in Feb 2024, she is presented and an ideal liveaboard project £39,995

P & D Boats - Sea Hunter Viper – IN STOCK Brand New 2023 P & D Boats Sea Hunter Viper rigged with a Tohatsu 30hp outboard and snugly sat on a galvanised road trailer. £14,995 REDUCED TO SELL

Seamaster Commodore 28. 1973 Perkins 48hp 4107 Diesel. Well presented for her age, this aft cabin cruiser is ideal for a family boat with 4 single berths in 2 cabins. Complete with heating, she is ready to be used.

BSS 2028 Located Boroughbridge Marina. £13,995

Four Winns 205 Sundowner. 1997. Single Volvo Penta 5.7 V8. Excellent condition cuddy cabin cruiser, perfect for weekends away, currently lying Boroughbridge Marina. £13,995

Salter Bros - 30 Sedan – Well presented Salter Brothers 30’ ex-broads cruiser with 32hp BMC Diesel engine on hydraulic drive. Believed commissioned in 1980, this 30’ sedan is spacious and ideal for a family for holidays £19,995

Colvic - 26 Northerner – Very Well presented Colvic Northerner 26’ River Cruiser. Refurbished in 2020 to a high standard, this well respected cruiser has had very little use in its 50 year history! Powered by BMC 1.5 Diesel on shaft. £12,995

BROKERAGE 51

www.towpathtalk.co.uk October 2024

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

CV47 8HX CELTIC QUEST

£52,000

DAWN CHORUS

2000 57ft – Alexander Hull with a Riverview Boats fitout Powered by a Barrus Yanmar – shire 2003 BSS Until Sept 2028.

FIRWOOD

£38,000

SOLD

£47,000

SOLD 2001 50ft – Colecraft hull and fitout. Powered by an Beta 1505 Cylinder with a PRM150 Gearbox.

THE MIGHTY QUINN

£35,000 2005 57ft – Paul Widdowson Hull with owner fitout Powered by a Thorneycroft 90.Boat Safety Until Sept 2026.

2006 50ft – Calcutt Boats Clipper Hull by Andicraft with a Pat Buckle fitout Powered by a BMC 1.8.

THE HIVE

£21,000

SOLD 2017 31ft – Powered by an Beta Marine with a TMC Gearbox Boats Safety until April 2025.

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 from £2820 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.

MARINA MOORINGS Moorings available in our award winning marinas, more information available on our website.

52 BROKERAGE

October 2024

New stock arriving shortly

Traditional boatyard, with traditional values

REDUCED

REF 10567 – Welsh Rose.

60 foot traditional stern narrow boat. £44,950.00

REF 10570 – Abel’s Ark. 45 foot cruiser stern narrow boat. £34,950.00

RE 10572 – Lilybel.

65 foot traditional stern narrow boat. £67,950.00

REF 10573 - Daisy.

30 foot cruiser stern narrow boat. £29,999.00

UNDER OFFER

REF 10574 - Calluna.

34 foot cruiser stern narrow boat. £29,500.00

www.towpathtalk.co.uk

REF 10575 - Home Free.

60 foot traditional stern narrow boat. £69,950.00

UNDER OFFER

REF 10577 - Tilly Ho Jo. 62 foot traditional stern narrow boat. £64,950.00

REF 10578 – Daisy 2.

35 foot traditional stern narrow boat. £22,950.00

REF 10579 - Horace.

8 foot semi traditional stern narrow boat. £53,950.00

REF 10580 - Perfick.

56 foot cruiser stern narrow boat. £26,950.00.

REF 10581 - Lincoln 70 foot traditional stern narrow boat. £44,950.00.

REF 10582 - Derwent.

70 foot cruiser stern narrow boat. £39,950.00.

BROKERAGE 53

www.towpathtalk.co.uk October 2024

Tel: (01788) 891373 Fax: (01788) 891436

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

On the Internet: www.braunstonmarina.co.uk Email: sales@braunstonmarina.co.uk

FOR SALE ADAM’S DOOBIE

FOR SALE £29 950

36ft /10.98m Cruiser 1977, Hull by Springer, Fit Out by Owner, 2 Berth

ZION

£39,950

40ft /12.2m Cruiser Style 1977, Hull by Hancock and Lane, 2/4 Berth

FOR SALE

FOR SALE LADY VIOLET

£59 950

60ft /18.3m Trad Style 1991, Hull by Colecraft, F/O by Owner, Russel Newbery DM2 Engine, 2 + 4 Berth

£33,000

45ft /13.72m Trad 1987, Hull by Colecraft, Fit Out by Colecraft, 2/4 Berth

FOR SALE

FOR SALE CHILLI PEPPER

CUT DIAMOND

£54 950

MANATEE

£35 950

57ft /17.38m Cruiser 2010, Hull by Orchard Boat Builders, Fit Out by Orchard Boat Builders, 2/4 Berth

42ft /12.8m Cruiser Stern 1999, Hull by MCC Stenson, Fit Out by MCC Stenson 2/4 Berth

FOR SALE

REDUCED

HONEY B

£58 950

56ft /17.07m Cruiser Stern 2004, Hull by Reeves, Fit Out by Aynho Port Dock Services, 2/4 Berth

GAIA

£34 950

42ft /12.80m Trad Style 1998, Hull & Fit Out by Venetian, 2/4 Berth

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

Here are just two:  

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 • DIY Facilities • Engine Repairs & Servicing • Painting & Signwriting • Rope Fenders • Refits & Alterations

54 BROKERAGE

October 2024

www.towpathtalk.co.uk

REDUCED PRICE - NOW £179,950

NEW WIDEBEAM 65' x 12' 05'' 'Treacle Mine' | thamesboatsales@tingdene.net

DUTCH BARGES

PETER NICHOLLS BARGE

FINESSE BARGE 70' X 13' BRIGANTINE

LUXE MOTOR DUTCH BARGE

BLUEWATER 57' 10'' X 12' 05''

'Lukas' hartfordboatsales@tingdene.net

'Northern Spirit' thamesboatsales@tingdene.net

'Nautical Tramp' thamesboatsales@tingdene.net

'Imagine’ thamesboatsales@tingdene.net

£82,450

£324,950

£129,950

£129,950

ORCHARD MARINA 60' X 9' PIONEER

WIDEBEAMS

COLLINGWOOD 70' WIDEBEAM

'Scallywag' pyrfordboatsales@tingdene.net

COLLINGWOOD 60' X 12'

VIKING CANAL BOAT 70' X 12' 06''

'Dreamcatcher’ hartfordboatsales@tingdene.net

'Buggerlugs' thamesboatsales@tingdene.net

'Persephone’ pyrfordboatsales@tingdene.net

£169,950

£96,950

£119,950

£199,950

PRO-BUILD 52' NARROWBOAT

R & D FABRICATIONS 62'

LES ALLEN & CO 42' NARROWBOAT

PENDLE 60' SEMI CRUISER

'Goosander’ pyrfordboatsales@tingdene.net

‘Cropredy' pyrfordboatsales@tingdene.net

‘Jude II' pyrfordboatsales@tingdene.net

‘Elegant Fowl' thamesboatsales@tingdene.net

£62,950

£44,950

£32,450

£135,000

NARROWBOATS

B E R T H AT A N Y T I N G D E N E M A R I N A G U A R A N T E E D * W I T H A L L C R A F T S O L D !

LARGE CHOICE OF USED & NEW

WIDEBEAMS, NARROWBOATS & DUTCH BARGES Contact one of our specialist widebeam & narrowboat sales offices today!

CONTACT US 7 DAYS A WEEK:

Walton Marina | 01932 221689 Hartford Marina | 01480 274707 Pyrford Marina | 01932 343275 Upton Marina | 01684 593111 Stourport Marina | 01299 827082 Thames & Kennet Marina | 01189 477770

01933 551622 | BOATSALES@TINGDENE.NET | WWW.TINGDENEBOATING.COM

*subject to availability

BROKERAGE 55

www.towpathtalk.co.uk October 2024

RED HILL MARINA

RATCLIFFE-ON SOAR NOTTINGHAM NG11 OEB BOATS URGENTLY REQUIRED FOR BROKERAGE OR PURCHASED OUTRIGHT LAZY DAYS VI - Get ready to embark on a luxurious journey with a stunning 70ft by 14ft

NARROW BOATS FOR SALE

NARROW R BOATS FO SALE

CRUIS ERS FOR SA LE

Widebeam Cruiser brought to you by Burscough Boat Trading LTD. Here’s why this beauty stands out: Unique Beta Hybrid Engine with 105hp/78kw power, Victron Multiplus II 10kw inverter, Fully-equipped galley with Neff appliances , Two inviting cabins with king-size & double beds, plus deluxe bathrooms, Ample storage, side hatch, pram cover, and a chance for residential mooring in Oxfordshire. Don’t miss the opportunity to make Lazy Days VI your floating sanctuary.

£199,950 NEMENDEE - A magnificent 68ft by 12ft Widebeam Cruiser by Aqualine! This floating paradise truly

feels like home sweet home. Here’s what makes Nemendee your dream come true: Powered by a Barrus Shire 70hp engine and Sidepower Bow Thruster, Plenty of power with Victron Quatro 5kw Inverter, solar panels, and more, Fully-equipped galley with top-of-the-line appliances, Luxurious accommodations in two spacious cabins, Tranquil bathroom oasis with Italian porcelain tiles and full-size bath. Meticulously maintained and ready for your next adventure, Nemendee is the epitome of elegance and comfort. £179,950

FLOAT HOMES

S

SALEAWAY

AURORA - Striking 60ft x 12ft Widebeam Cruiser built by Collingwood in the popular reverse layout. Powered by a Canaline 60hp engine & PRM 150 gearbox, Easy navigation with 95kgf Bow thrusters, Fully equipped galley with Belling cooker & integrated appliances, Sleep soundly in the fixed king-size bed, Vetus pump out toilet, shower & vanity basin in the bathroom. Aurora is loaded with features like a side hatch, cratch cover, and pram cover - all with built-in LED lighting. With a fresh blacking in June 2024 and a valid BSC until 2027, Aurora is ready for your next adventure!

£139,950

BADGERS REST - Set sail on the luxurious “Badgers Rest,” a stunning 60ft x 11ft Widebeam

Cruiser meticulously crafted by Collingwood. Cruise in style with its beloved reverse layout and reliable Canaline 52hp engine paired with a PRM 150 gearbox for effortless navigation. Dual 12v/240v systems, Sterling Pro Power Q Inverter. Thetford cooker, Hotpoint Gas Hob, Fridge, Freezer, Washing Machine. Fixed king size bed, additional berths, spacious bathroom Don’t miss the chance to own this beauty!

Call us today on

07429 253325

£104,950

NOW OPERATING FROM 10 MARINAS NATIONWIDE BOAT SALES LTD

Email: enquiries@nationwideboatsales.co.uk www.nationwideboatsales.co.uk Tel: 01889 881960

Celebrate 30 years of British nostalgia with Best of British magazine Best of British is the UK’s premier nostalgia magazine, covering every aspect of life from the 1930s to today. Packed with features that celebrate classic entertainment, transport, food and drink, and more, not to mention Postbag and the Yesterday Remembered memoir section, a subscription to Best of British is always going to be great value.

Secure your 30th anniversary edition go to

www.classicmagazines.co.uk/issues/best-of-british Or call 01507 529 529

You can also build a longer relationship by subscribing and securing our best deal, go to www.classicmagazines.co.uk/best-of-british

56 BROKERAGE

October 2024

www.towpathtalk.co.uk

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

£17,995 SHETLAND 4+2

Centre Cockpit, Length 26ft, Beam 6ft10ins, Built 1990, 6 Berths in 2 cabins, LIFT OUT COCKPIT SIDE FOR EASY ACCESS, cooker, toilet, shower, hot and cold water system, 12 and 240 volts electrics, CREAM LEATHERETTE CUSHION COVERS WITH BLUE PIPING, powered by a Mercury 15hp 4 stroke outboard engine, BSC 2027, original white gelcoat (not painted), hull polished and new antifouling, includes new mooring ropes, clean fenders, etc, FREE DELIVERY within 250 miles or local mooring available.

£11,995

Shetland 4+2 called Archie, Length 21ft 6ins, Beam 8ft2ins, Built 1990, 4 Berths, cooker, separate toilet compartment with portaloo, pumped water system, 12 and 240 volts electrics, powered by a Honda 35Hp 4 stroke outboard engine, Bsc 2028, all original gelcoat (not painted), hull polished and new antifouling, includes new mooring ropes, clean fenders, 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

SUPERB VIKING 275

£57,995 VIKING 32 CENTRE COCKPIT

Superb Viking 275, Built 2023, HiLine Spec with folding windscreen, Length 27ft6ins, Beam 9ft2 ins, Rear access door, 6 Berths, bow thruster, hot and cold water system, cooker, fridge, shower, cassette toilet, heating, 240 volt mains, etc, powered by a Mariner 40Hp (only 7 hours from new) Bsc 2027, MANY EXTRAS, FREE DELIVERY within 250 miles.

£39,995

Length 32ft, Beam 6ft10ins, Built 2016, 6 Berths in 2 cabins, cooker, fridge, 2 toilets, shower, hot and cold water system, warm air heating, powered by a Mariner 25Hp 4 stroke outboard engine, Bsc 2028, FREE DELIVERY within 250 miles or local mooring available, includes ropes, fenders, etc

NEW VIKING 23 NARROW BEAM NOW IN STOCK FOR IMMIDIATE DELIVERY 4 Berths, Hiline Spec boat with Folding windscreen for low bridges, cooker with 2 ring hob, grill and oven, fridge, hot and cold water system, shower, electric flush cassette toilet, 12 and 240 volts electrics with battery charger, powered by a 20Hp 4 stroke outboard engine

SPECIAL SUMMER PRICE OF £47,995, BOOK YOUR VIEWING NOW.

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

MARGARET

£89,000

Length 70ft, Beam 6ft10ins, Built 2012 by Soar Valley Boats with a Centre Cockpit, powered by a Canaline 52Hp, Wheel house, bow thruster, solid fuel stove and diesel heating, etc, well appointed spacious boat

SIR KAY

£33,500

40ft by 6ft10ins trad stern,built in 1999 by R & D Fabrications powered by Nanni 35hp inboard diesel engine, Entering the boat from the stern there is cupboard storage / locker this area also gives access to the electrics fuses etc. From the steps is the dinette which gives comfortable seating for 4 people with storage under, this also makes a guest double bed. Moving forward is the galley with units port & starboard incorporating 4 ring gas hob, oven & grill, matching sink & drainer, fridge, toaster & kettle.

There is a small shelf, towel rail, and ample storage & work-top area. The bathroom is next with shower, hand wash basin set in cupboard unit and porta potti toilet. Moving forward again is the main cabin with fixed seating which makes a double bed with storage under, large wardrobe, corner unit with TV, wall mounted TV, folding table, and a Refleks with back boiler supplying the central heating radiators. The craft has 12 & 240v electrics, calorifier with immersion heater, front cratch & a BSC valid until June 2027.

FLOTILLY

£47,995

48ft by 6ft10ins trad stern built 2006 by Hine powered by BMC1.8 inboard diesel engine. From the bow is an L shaped dinette acts as corner sofa seating with storage under also is a guest double bed. In this area is on the port side is a solid fuel stove with back boiler mounted on a tiled plinth & surround. The starboard side has a corner storage unit with power points for TV etc, there is separate table when dining & a central heating radiator. The galley comprising of a circular stainless steel sink & drainer, full gas cooker, fridge, microwave oven, kettle and a side hatch opposite offering additional light & ventilation. The bathroom has a shower, hand wash basin, heated towel rail, & Thetford cassette toilet. The bedroom has a fixed double with storage under, wardrobe, small shelf along the side of the bed & central heating radiator. There is also an additional wardrobe in the corridor with shelving. The craft is clean & tidy ready for use. It has 12 & 240v electrics, calorifier with immersion heater, BSC valid until April 2028.

STOVE PIPE WELLS

£42,000

60ft by 6tf10ins, Trad Stern, built 1999 by R & D Fabrications, powered by a brand new Beta marine 45hp inboard diesel. From the bow is the main cabin which is open plan allowing free standing furniture. The starboard side has a solid fuel stove mounted on a tiled plinth & surround. Moving down the boat is the Pullman dinette which offers comfortable seated dining with storage under the seating, it also makes a guest double bed. The galley has a 4 ring gas hob, a circular sink & drainer with tiled splash-back, fridge, and space to install a eye level oven & grill. There is also a side hatch offering additional light &ventilation.

The bathroom comprises of a small bath with shower over, hand wash basin with tiled splash-back, porta potti, a pump-out toilet, the main bedroom with a fixed double with storage under, wardrobe with set of drawers below, The boat has 12 & 240v electrics, twin alternators, 2kw combi inverter, 80amp battery charger, Webasto diesel central heating, and a BSC valid until May 2025.

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 57

www.towpathtalk.co.uk October 2024

BUY, SELL OR MOOR WITH US

Upgrade to luxury...

SWAP YOUR BOAT FOR THE AWARD-WINNING HIGHGROVE AND ENJOY 12 MONTHS FREE MOORING! 58FT CRUISER STERN | ROYDON MARINA | £POA

NEW: BY ELTON MOSS - £199,995 65FT WIDEBEAM | ROYDON MARINA

“DILLY DALLY” - £199,995 FLOATING LODGE | BARTON MARINA

“BLACKBIRD” - £60,000 61FT SEMI TRAD | GREAT HAYWOOD MARINA

“BUTLERS GIRL” - £69,995 57FT TRADITIONAL | BARTON MARINA

“BRANDY SNAP” - £25,000 43FT CRUISER STERN | CAEN HILL MARINA

“GENESIS” - £62,500 55FT SEMI TRAD | SAUL JUNCTION MARINA

NEW: UNREGISTERED - £144,950 57FT SEMI TRAD | TATTENHALL MARINA

“GABRIEL OAK” - £55,000 70FT TRADITIONAL | SHAKESPEARE MARINA

NEW: EUROCRUISER - £174,950 60X12FT 6” WIDEBEAM | TATTENHALL MARINA

Visit lakelandleisureboatsales.co.uk to browse our full range of boats

07513 708099

07354 902086

07534 655702

07748 036638

07585 956804

SHAKESPEARE: 07354 902085 | CAEN HILL: 07354 902085 | NORTHWICH: 07585 956804 | DEGANWY (COASTAL BOATS): 07935 010167

58

October 2024 www.towpathtalk.co.uk

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

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

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

Powerboat, Inland Waterways Helm and Diesel Engine Instructor

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

EDWARDS MABSSE

Boat Safety Scheme Examiner All classes of vessels examined Landlords’ Gas Safety Certificates Caravans, RV’s and domestic properties

Tel 07970 384047 Areas covered: 2, 4, 5

BOB HURST

Cetec Marine

based at South Kilworth

A friendly and professional fully insured service Steel, GRP & Timber craft Pre-purchase surveys Insurance surveys Valuations Ultrasonic Testing

Your Local BSS Examiner

BSS Examiner, Marine Surveyor & Marine Technical Consultant

MARK

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

RHYS KILLIN Dip.S.C.Sur

BSS Examiner BSS Examination from £160

Est. 1992

Phone Chris Holmes 07860 254369 01784 464899

surveyors@cetec.co.uk www.cetecmarine.co.uk

Areas Covered 10, 12, 13, 14, 15

Pete Davidson BSS Examiner Most private craft examined.

East Midlands based.

Areas covered 5, 6, 7, 9, 10,11

Covering areas 2, 3, 5, 6, 7

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

Alan Buckle Boat Safety Scheme Examiner

Independent friendly service Covering the Midlands and surrounding areas.

07856 686363

bsswithalan@gmail.com

07988 739136 pete@bss-examiner.co.uk www.bss-examiner.co.uk

TO ADVERTISE HERE CALL EMMA ON 01507 529453

STEVE SIMCOE BSS EXAMINER NORTHAMPTONSHIRE AND SURROUNDING AREA PHONE/TEXT: 07860 943714 EMAIL: bimsimcoe@gmail.com FOR A PROMPT SERVICE

Dave Freeman

Over 25 years experience on the inland waterways

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

BROKERAGE 59

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BALLAST

BOATS WANTED

CANOPIES

GRIT BLASTING

HEATING

BOAT BUILDER CANALIA

BOAT PAINTERS

CLEANING PRODUCTS

CANOPIES

INSURANCE

COURSES

BOATS WANTED

ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT

GRAPHICS

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INSURANCE

MAPS

MOORINGS

LED LIGHTING

LIGHTING

MAIL FORWARDING

SERVICES

SERVICES

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SERVICES

SPARE PARTS

TRANSPORT BY ROAD

TRANSPORT BY WATER

SURVEYORS

WINDOWS

TRANSPORT BY WATER

ON IRISH WATERS WITH ALISON ALDERTON 63

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Carry rybridge y RNLI. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

Dr Cathal Gallagher, deputy CEO Inland Fisheries Ireland, Éanna Ní Lamhna, biologist and environmentalist and Dr Matthew Jebb, director National Botanic Gardens of Ireland PHOTO: SUPPLIED

First ever Irish book on aquatic plants published

What a picture!

ROYAL National Lifeboat Institution representatives from Lough Ree RNLI recently participated in a special photo moment – One Moment for One Crew – to create a photographic record of those involved with the lifesaving charity in this, its 200th anniversary year.

The charity, which was founded in 1824, asked its volunteers and staff from around Ireland and the UK (both coastal and inland waterwaysbased) to take a photo of themselves, their crew or their team, at as close as possible to 18:24hrs on August 1.

Whether lifeguards on a beach, lifeboat crew at a station, fundraisers at an event, or volunteers in a museum – all involved with the

charity have been encouraged to submit a photo of themselves representing their RNLI role at wherever they may be on this date and time.

On a beautiful summer evening at the lifeboat station, at Coosan Point on the shores of Lough Ree, volunteers posed for the special picture.

Members of the Inland Waterways Association of Ireland (IWAI) who had gathered for the prestigious Shannon Boat Rally serenaded them with a great rendition of happy birthday.

Meanwhile, other inland RNLI bases were also taking part including Lough Derg RNLI, celebrating its own milestone of 20 years in service during 2024, with representatives

gathering alongside their lifeboat at Dromineer. And, in the North, Carrybridge RNLI members were pictured with their Atlantic 85 lifeboat outside their new state-of-the-art station building on the shores of Lower Lough Erne.

Representatives including lifeboat crews, fundraisers, shop volunteers and staff from RNLI communities all across the island of Ireland have all taken part and the photos have been uploaded to an online portal to be used in the creation of a montage image.

The RNLI celebrated its 200th anniversary earlier this year and this photographic moment is one of a range of events and programmes which the charity has organised to mark its bicentenary.

Anjie Rook, RNLI

Archive image of Ireland’s Ballycotton RNLI crew in 1936. PHOTO: SUPPLIED associate director, who is overseeing the RNLI's 200th anniversary programmes, said: “The RNLI has been saving lives at sea for 200 years thanks to its incredible people – the courageous lifeboat crews and lifeguards who put their own lives at risk to save others; the dedicated fundraisers who raise the income to power those rescues; the committed volunteers who give their own time in a range of other roles

New Dunbrody Famine Ship visitor experience launched THE Emigrant Trail, a new Dunbrody Famine Ship visitor experience on the River Barrow in New Ross, Co. Wexford, has been officially opened

by Taoiseach Simon Harris.

The upgraded experience tells the famine emigrant story, centred on a reproduction of a 1840s vessel that set sail for America during the Great Famine.

The new immersive visitor experience uses a mix of digital interpretation and archive material.

This includes personal letters and records from the time, as well as sights and

shop fronts familiar to New Ross people and visitors to the town, to vividly bring to life one of the most pivotal events in Irish history, and helps visitors to connect with the human stories of those who journeyed across the Atlantic.

The new enhanced visitor experience The Emigrant Trail received €880,000 in capital funding from the Rural Regeneration Development Fund, €295,000 in funding from Fáilte Ireland and €425,000 in funding from Wexford County Council.

Fáilte Ireland estimates that over a 10-year period, the

The Dunbrody Famine Ship at New Ross, Co. Wexford. PHOTO: FÁILTE IRELAND Dunbrody Famine Ship experience has the potential to attract over 211,000 additional local, domestic and overseas visitors, generating more than

€9 million in visitor expenditure for the local economy and supporting 36 jobs.

Discover more about the Dunbrody Famine Ship at: www. dunbrody.com

such as giving out water safety advice or helping to run our retail shops and museums, and the staff who provide vital support to our volunteers.

“We have encouraged anyone who has some form of involvement with the RNLI to participate in this special photographic event, to capture a record of everyone who, at this moment in time, is playing some part in the RNLI’s lifesaving work, continuing its legacy and securing its future.

“During our 200th anniversary

year we have been remembering our past, celebrating the lifesaving service we provide today, and aiming to inspire future generations of lifesavers and supporters. It is very much about celebrating the people of today's RNLI and, we hope, inspiring those future generations who will take the RNLI into its third century of lifesaving.”

For further information about the RNLI’s 200th anniversary, visit: www.RNLI.org/200

BIOLOGIST and environmentalist Éanna Ní Lamhna has launched the first ever Irish book on aquatic plants – featuring 401 different river, lake and pond plant species.

The 576-page Aquatic Plants in Ireland: A Photographic Guide identifies flora in freshwater habitats across the country using concise text and more than 1200 full colour photographs and diagrams.

Speaking at its launch at the Botanic Gardens in Glasnevin, Dublin, Ms Ní Lamhna said: “This ground-breaking tome is a pioneering resource that I hope will reach a vast audience, at home and abroad.

“It’s also a useful tool for children and students.

They can now access a bespoke Irish textbook that comprehensively details the extensive flora that come to life in their nearby watercourses.

“This Irish aquatic plant encyclopaedia is unique. And in it the diversity of our lakes, reservoirs, ponds, canals, rivers, streams, ditches, bog pools and wetlands, are more than matched by the diverse plant species that call these places home.”

Aquatic environments are particularly vulnerable to threats posed by biodiversity loss, climate change and the spread of invasive species.

The book includes a number of invasive alien plant species that are rapidly expanding their range in and along Ireland’s watercourses, many having serious adverse effects on native habitats and biodiversity.

The guide was funded by Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI), with support from INVAS Biosecurity Ltd, and compiled by three experienced Irish field ecologists – Prof Joe Caffrey, Dr Ronan Matson and Dr Rossa Ó'Briain of IFI. The broad ecology of plant species is summarised and maps also illustrate their national distribution.

The full-colour publication costs €40 for the softback edition, €70 for the hardback version.

Aquatic Plants in Ireland: A Photographic Guide can be purchased online at: www.fisheriesireland.ie

Maritime Mile Blueway Trail encourages exploration of Belfast’s waterfront and wildife

A NEW outdoor educational and family experience aimed at encouraging locals, visitors, school and community groups to explore Belfast’s historic waterfront and find out about its wildlife has been launched.

The Maritime Mile Blueway Trail begins next to the pontoon at AC Marriott Hotel, City Quays, crosses the Lagan Weir, and continues along the waterfront, across to Belfast Harbour Ma r i na, b e f o re concluding at Titanic Hotel Belfast.

Each stop is marked on a

downloadable map, where participants can find clues and fascinating insights into Belfast’s natural heritage and maritime environment.

The marina recently earned its Blue Flag status after meeting

standards in areas such as safety, accessibility, cleanliness and environmental education. The new trail strengthens the connection with local tourism and actively engages the public in aspects of Belfast

The Big Fish. PHOTO: TOURISM IRELAND

Harbour’s sustainable development and maritime heritage.

There are 10 stops along Belfast’s iconic water front with questions, clues and facts, all of which can be easily found on a series of information panels of all shapes and sizes along the self-guided route.

Ever yone who completes the experience will get a Maritime Mile Blueway Trail certificate.

The Maritime Mile Blueway Trail is open until November 4 and is free. Discover more at www.maritimemile.com

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The grey heron

By Kevin Thomas

THE grey heron (ardea cinerea) is ubiquitous to most of the UK’s canals and inland waterways.

Aside from periodic sightings of the purple heron (ardea purpurea), a rare visitor to the UK, the grey heron is the only heron found here. In Southern Africa there are 10 heron species, including the grey, and wherever we lived in Southern Africa the various heron species were fairly common.

Most of the grey herons I’ve come across in my wanderings have been relatively humanhabituated, and you can approach them quite closely before they fly off, clumsily grabbing height with flapping wings.

They’re also prone to perching on pontoons and boat button fenders as they search the water for prey.

Opportunistic feeders, they’ll predate on day-old d u ck l i ng s w i t h ou t hesitation. I’m more than convinced after having seen it a few times, that during spring, grey herons are the main culprits predating on ducklings within the marina.

Herons I’ve watched linger motionless in the

reeds fringing the water, and when mother duck comes swimming past with her newly hatched brood.

Zap! One duckling less.

A few weeks ago, I saw a heron lift off and fly across the canal with a wriggling rat held firmly in its beak.

A stalking heron is quite comical to watch and we have a regular visitor to our pontoon who keeps us amused with its efforts at catching fish. It’s all neck, legs and feet. Periodically it leaps into the water and rather than flounder because of the depth, manages to leap back up onto a pontoon. Invariably, without a fish and looking quite embarrassed.

I’m not sure where the local herons’ breeding colonies, or heronries as they’re called, are located.

We’ve only ever seen solitary herons or at most, two. The longest-surviving grey heron was recorded as having lived to 37 years in Denmark. Some grey herons are known to migrate and European birds have been recorded crossing the Sahara Desert.

The population in the UK is currently about 13,316 breeding pairs and in Ireland up to 10,000.

Rescuing Max

Max is found, cold but otherwise unharmed, near Wood Shoal. The Athlone Sub Aqua Club boat and members stand by to receive Max. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

Barge Beagle – sniffing out good finds for crews with canines Safely on board. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

By Alison Alderton

WE ALL love a story with a happy ending don’t we? And Barge Beagle, being no different, was thrilled to recently learn of a successful rescue mission made in Ireland by the Athlone Sub Aqua Club involving a Jack Russell terrier.

On August 18, the Athlone Sub Aqua Club successfully responded to a distress call regarding a missing dog, Max, who had fallen overboard from a cruiser on north Lough Ree. Club members quickly launched the club boat and proceeded to the area where Max was last seen.

Upon arrival, they conducted a thorough search and located the little Jack Russell terrier floating in

his lifejacket near the Wood Shoal.

Max was overjoyed to be brought aboard the Athlone Sub Aqua Club boat. The club members carefully examined Max, and while a bit cold and shaken from the ordeal, he was otherwise in good health.

“We are thrilled to have been able to reunite Max with his family,” said club chairperson Janet Mullen. “This incident underscores the critical importance of wearing lifejackets, not only for people but for our pets as well, when out on the water.”

Max was wearing a Swedish designed Baltic lifejacket when he fell overboard. This is a make which Barge Beagle

Pets on the Cut Border collie, Gillie

By Alison Wilkerson

TOWPATH

ON MANY a canal trip, either cruising or walking (as unlike the singer Bruce Springsteen, I was not born to run or cycle for that matter), I get to meet and talk to many people.

Apparently, I can “talk for England” and tend to “waffle on”. I also love to see wildlife and pets and, like people, they range from young to old and in-between as it’s very difficult to guess ages

nowadays... especially when they don’t look their age, just like handsome border collie Gillie, who is 13 years old (or should that be young, as he certainly young at heart and does not look his age at all).

He travels with his owner Heather who has had him since he was a puppy. He came from a working farm which had working collies in a village where she used to live and occasionally they go back and visit the farm

A play on birds

TALK

Grey herons aren’t shy about utilising narrowboat sterns as a handy perch to watch for prey. PHOTO: KEVIN THOMAS

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KEN Norman has been a continuous cruiser since December 2021.

For his full story see Characters of the Cut on page 9. After a few hours cruising each day he enjoys creating these frivolous cartoons A Play on Birds. See more on Instagram: @play_on_birds

himself favours and is stocked by numerous outlets worldwide.

Find out more at: www.baltic.se Lough Ree is the second largest of the Shannon’s great lakes and frequently referred to as an inland sea. Just spotting Max in this vast expanse of water was a job well done by the Athlone Sub Aqua Club which, since 2023, has operated an 8m Humber Ocean Pro semi-rigid inflatable boat (RIB), powered by a single Yamaha 300hp outboard, built by Humber Boats of Hull, East Yorks.

Athlone Sub Aqua Club was founded in 1971 with the main aim of training members to partake in scuba diving and snorkeling as well as other skills

shop where he was born for reunions and he gets treated to mince.

Nowadays Gillie and Heather spend their time in her lovely camper van, on her boat or in Spain, as they stay there during the winter months. Believe it or not, Gillie actually has a Spanish passport and probably barks Spanish.

The boat, Heather’s first, despite her family having yachts in the past, was purchased just over a year ago from Limehouse Basin (formally known as Regent’s Canal Dock) in London, which is the gateway between the River Thames and over 2000 miles of navigable canals and rivers along the Limehouse Cut which is the oldest canal in London.

Her lovely boat is a 38ft cruiser stern narrowboat, powered by a Barrus engine and they love sharing their time together on it.

Now retired after a career in teaching (you deserve a medal), He at h e r e n j oy s travelling with Gillie and even volunteered on the Milton Keynes in Buckinghamshire all-electric Community Boat which is run by volunteers. Electra is a 12-seater trip boat on the Grand Union Canal and you can book a trip

related to these sports such as boat handling, water safety, diver’s first aid and more.

While Athlone Sub Aqua Club is primarily a sports diving club, it also provides a voluntary search and recovery (S&R) service in and around Athlone and the wider midlands region. You can find out more about the Athlone Sub Aqua Club by going to its Facebook page or visiting the informative website at: www.athlonesubaqua.ie A huge thank you to Liam Sherringham and the Athlone Sub Aqua Club for allowing Towpath Talk to share this story, and it’s a paws up from Barge Beagle for helping out little Max in his hour of need.

Handsome border collie Gillie, just 13 years young.

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

including food, cafe bar, half day, walk and guide cruises plus heritage open days and talks, etc. Visit www.bmkwaterway.org/ electra for more details.

While cruising, Gillie stays below deck which is safer, especially when navigating solo at the helm, and he loves to people and animal watch those on the towpath from the comfort of the stern, but only once safely and secured moored up.

He is more than content in different environments – whether a building, a boat or the van – plus he particularly enjoys

exploring on walks.

Toy-wise, well he destroys them, even the so-called indestructible ones. Unfortunately, he does not get on with cats despite having lived with one as a puppy, and his favourite pastime is watching out for them and squirrels (of course), but luckily he never actually catches them. Waterfowl on the other hand, he is not interested or bothered by them at all, in fact, he completely ignores them, which is actually the best option Gillie, especially knowing how defensive they are.

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Shining g a light g on the canals

Kelpies’ lighting upgraded

Lighthouses may bring to mind solid, windswept structures on rocky promontories around the coast, but did you know there are five lighthouses, or unmanned or signal g beacons,, on the Crinan and Caledonian Canals?

THE two lighthouses on the Crinan date from the mid 19th century, 40–50 years after the canal opened in the early 1800s. Positioned at the sea locks at either end of the canal, at Ardrishaig and Crinan, the beacons were built to guide the crews of fishing vessels and commercial boats safely onto the canal.

The Second World War blackout impacted the canals as much as the general population. On September 1, 1939, the engineer and manager of the Crinan Canal was ordered to ‘extinguish navigation lights as arranged’ by telegram from the Admiralty. The original telegram form still exists in the canal archives,

now held in the National Records of Scotland.

A different style of lighthouse is found on the Caledonian Canal.

Pepperpot lighthouses are short, round towers topped by a conical roof, so-called because of the similarity to a pepper shaker, and all on the Caledonian built to a similar specification. At Fort Augustus, the lighthouse is situated where the canal enters the southern end of Loch Ness. It’s much photographed and often described as Scotland’s smallest lighthouse.

Gairlochy, at the entrance to Loch Lochy, has both a pepperpot lighthouse and what’s thought to be the base of an Argand lamp, a type

of oil lamp that provided a very bright light. The base is inscribed with the maker W Wilkins, Long Acre, London. William Crane Wilkins was a lamp maker and manufacturered Argand lamps. There’s a similar but more complete structure at Clachnaharry, at the northern end of the Caledonian in Inverness, where the canal enters the Beauly Firth.

A third pepperpot lighthouse is found at Corpach Sea Lock at the western end of the canal, inscribed ‘1912’ above the door. There are no lighthouses or other infrastructure detailed on the 1805 survey or the 1813 plans of the Caledonian Canal. By 1848, a chart of the canal shows lights at Fort Augustus, Gairlochy and Bona but none at the sea locks at Corpach or Clachnaharry.

Bona lighthouse, at Lochend, was designed by Thomas Telford in around 1815, and by 1848 had been altered to form a lighthouse

marking the junction at the northern end of Loch Ness, where the canal enters Loch Dochfour and thence the River Ness. Originally a light was shone from a curvedglass window facing the loch and tended by a lightkeeper. Bona was the site of a drover’s ferry, used to transport livestock across the water and, for many years, a small passenger ferry.

The lights would have originally been powered by gas. Today the electric lights are automated and regulated by the Northern Lighthouse Board who specify the characteristics of the light – the colour, pattern and intervals of the light flashes – and maintained by Scottish Canals. They’re testament to the huge variety of structures that form Scottish Canals’ estate, all of which (apart from the Monklands Canal) have Scheduled Monument status due to their historic and national importance, described by Chris O’Connell, heritage manager at Scottish Canals, as an open-air museum.

Gairlochy lighthouse, lit up at night. PHOTO: SCOTTISH CANALS

The lighthouse at Crinan. PHOTO: SCOTTISH CANALS

Innovation wins on the Crinan Canal

SCOTTISH Canals, and partner Mackenzie Construction, have won the Scottish Civil Engineering Award 2024 for Innovation from the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) Scotland for the Crinan Canal lock gate replacement.

The Crinan Canal has been the focus of a three-year winter works programme to replace lock gates and install new operating equipment. This year the gates of Crinan sea lock, lock 15, were replaced. A large, 130-tonne heavy crane

The over-lock crane platform, avoiding having to place the crane on the narrow access road. PHOTO: SCOTTISH CANALS

was needed to lift the gates. The innovative solution – a platform allowing the crane to be placed over the sea lock rather than on the road – minimised road closures and disruption to the local community. The design and manufacture of the platform involved 12 months’ development.

This concept is seen elsewhere, but rarely at the scale needed at Crinan. Engineers estimate the equivalent of 76 days’ worth of road closures were avoided by using the platform.

The design of the gates has been improved, giving them a life expectancy of around 40–50 years, longer than some of the associated parts.

The Kelpies were dramatically lit at the Kelpies 10 event, celebrating the anniversary of their first decade. PHOTO: SCOTTISH CANALS THE Kelpies, the two magnificent horse head sculptures watching over the Forth and Clyde Canal at Helix Park in Falkirk, are undergoing maintenance in their 10th anniversary year.

Scottish Canals is upgrading and repairing the Kelpies’

lighting as part of the ongoing investment into these muchloved structures. The £75,000 works will also allow the Kelpies to mirror light ups with the Falkirk Wheel. The Kelpies and the Falkirk Wheel are sometimes lit in a particular colour on a specific date to

promote all sorts of events, from charitable awareness days to sporting achievements.

Requests for a light display at either venue can be made to Scottish Canals via scottishcanals.co.uk.

Find out about the Helix and the Kelpies tours at thehelix.co.uk.

Festival is a splash hit THE 2024 Kirkintilloch Canal Festival was a hit with the thousands of people who attended the annual festival, centred around Southbank Marina on the Forth and Clyde Canal on the weekend of August 31– September 1.

Events were held throughout the town, on and off the water, with a concert and fireworks on the Saturday and the popular Family Funday on the Sunday, with lots to see and do. A variety of boat trips were on offer during the week leading up to the main events, including storytelling, breakfast and fish supper cruises.

In July, East Dunbartonshire Council organised a boat-building

programme to celebrate the canal.

Led by a traditional boat builder from the Archipelago Folk School, a team of volunteers from the local community took part in a five-day project to build a 12ft-long skiff by hand. The team then sanded, painted and varnished the skiff, named Fine & Dandy.

The boat was officially launched during the festival. It will be used in outdoor education work, helping local school pupils and groups get out onto the canal. The skiff will be particularly beneficial for those with mobility issues and unable to use standard kayaks and paddle boards, enabling safe and inclusive access to the canal.

Crowds throng Southbank Marina for the concert and fireworks.

The new upper gate for lock 15 being lifted into place. PHOTO: SCOTTISH CANALS Improvements to the design and installation process mean that these parts, including the seals, can be replaced by divers avoiding the need to de-water the lock chamber.

Following a trial last

year, the new gates arrived at Crinan with some parts already attached, and other parts manufactured off site and delivered ready for installation, improving quality control. The canal was used for transport

PHOTO: EAST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL

as much as possible, further reducing heavy lorry traffic. More than 160 tonnes of plant and equipment, the new and old lock gates and the huge beams needed for the crane platform were transported to Crinan

by pontoon barge.

The canal was closed to navigation during the winter and the section between locks 14 and 15 dewatered.

More than 100 fish and crabs were relocated to the canal at Ardrishaig.

As reported in March’s

edition, significant issues were found in Crinan dummy lock (the former sea lock in use until the 1930) and the first phase of the repairs was completed before the canal was reopened at the end of April.

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Days Out Beautiful Quays: Salford Quays in Manchester is a popular destination for visitors and tourists to the city.

Manchester PHOTO: MARKETING MANCHESTER AND RICH J JONES

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 Manchester, with close links to the waterways and a city that has plenty to offer visitors.

Step back in time: Manchester Museum boasts around 4.5 million objects from natural sciences and human cultures.

By Sally Clifford

ITS evolution from ‘Cottonopolis’ to a vibrant city of culture, music, sport and scientific innovation has led to Manchester becoming one of the mustsee cities around the world.

Renowned as the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, the ‘Cottonopolis’ nickname came from Manchester’s early success in the cotton trade and was bolstered by the development of the Manchester Ship Canal. Opened during Queen Victoria’s reign, this 36-mile-long seaway running from the Mersey Estuary into Manchester is one of the UK’s most vibrant trading hubs supporting a range of industries.

PHOTO: MANCHESTER MUSEUM

Cheshire Ring

Ashton Canal, built in the 18th century, contributed to Manchester’s textile and coal transportation economy. Ashton, along with the Bridgewater Canal, is among the waterways in the Cheshire Ring – one of the original cruising rings – providing opportunities for

Corrie cobbles: the Coronation Street Experience gives visitors the chance to see behind the scenes of Britain’s longest-running soap.

PHOTO: THE CORONATION STREET EXPERIENCE

pedestrians and cyclists to appreciate the green corridors within this industrial

Shoppers’ paradise: Trafford Centre shopping and leisure destination.

PHOTO: TRAFFORD CENTRE

landscape where the buildings, which played such an important part in its past, have helped to shape the cool and vibrant city standing here today.

For the visitors and tourists who come to explore Manchester there are plenty of attractions to entertain and occupy not least the stadiums, Co-op Live – with its canalside bar – being the latest venue bringing big names to a city renowned down the decades for its influential impact on the global music scene.

Home to The Hallé orchestra, the former Hacienda nightclub and the birthplace of bands including The Hollies, James, New Order, Oasis, The Smiths and The Stone Roses, Manchester’s fascinating music history unfolds in tours and trails around the city – a sightseeing must for music fans. Stadium tours of Manchester City and Manchester United ensure football fans are catered for too in this progressive city.

Overview: the view overlooking the Rochdale Canal in Manchester.

PHOTO: SALLY CLIFFORD

Media City and The Quays

A fine example of forward-thinking innovation, this is a popular visitor and tourist destination offering 12.8 acres of public and outdoor space and accessibility to and from Greater Manchester with tram, bike and walking routes.

Home to the BBC in the North and ITV, this waterfront location on the banks of the historic Manchester Ship Canal in Salford offers a vibrant entertainment scene, bars, restaurants and shops, as

well as cultural landmarks including The Lowry and the award-winning Imperial War Museum North.

Close by, the set of Britain’s longestrunning soap beckons fans to stroll those famous Corrie cobbles in an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour with Continuum Attractions. The Coronation Street Experience is a fantastic way to explore the props, sets and some of the street’s familiar locations, the Rovers Return and The Kabin, in the company of an expert tour guide. Whether you are

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www.towpathtalk.co.uk October 2024

The Towpath Ang gler Our monthly look at the angling scene

By David Kent

Bee bright: the colourful Queen Bee sculpture in Sackville Gardens. PHOTO: SALLY CLIFFORD visiting for a day, a weekend or longer, the city boasts many more attractions to educate and entertain.

Castlefield Viaduct

Last year’s multi-million-pound redevelopment of Manchester Museum, one of the UK’s largest university museums shortlisted in the Art Fund Museum of the Year Award 2024 and home to around 4.5 million objects from natural sciences and human cultures, along with the transformation of Castlefield Viaduct, the landmark 330-metre-long, Grade II-listed steel structure, are indicative of a city embracing positive change for the future while acknowledging the importance of its past.

Built in 1892, Castlefield Viaduct is located in the oldest part of the city and was built by Heenan and Froude, the engineers who worked on Blackpool Tower. Until 1969 the viaduct carried heavy rail traffic in and out of Manchester Central Station and the Great Northern Warehouse. Disused but maintained by National Highways, the landmark has been given a new lease of life through its temporary transformation into a ‘garden in the sky.’ This beautiful green space, made possible by private donations and funding from the People’s Postcode Lottery, is freely accessible until autumn 2024. Feedback and ideas from its opening will help to shape the future of the viaduct. For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk Other places of interest include the Northern Quarter, with its boutiques, cafes, independent shops and vibrant

Grand entrance: the beautiful Imperial Arch in Manchester’s Chinatown. PHOTO: SALLY CLIFFORD

markets; Chinatown’s bakeries and restaurants and its famous parade as part of the Chinese New Year celebrations in February, and The Village, a vibrant canalside inclusive neighbourhood of bars, clubs and festivals central to the city’s LGBTQ+ community.

Stroll or take a bus or taxi around the sights of interest or appreciate the peace and tranquillity with a boat tour.

For those seeking entertainment under one roof, then a visit to the Trafford Centre is a must. Located a few miles out of Manchester, this shopping and leisure destination boasts restaurants, cafes, bars and a cinema.

There are plenty of events taking place here all year round – and with Sea Life Manchester and the Legoland Discovery Centre close by, it’s worth planning ahead to make the most of your visit.

Make Manchester your next stop.

FACT FILE: Further places of interest include: Jodrell Bank: www. jodrellbank.net Trafford shopping centre: www.traffordcentre.co.uk The Science and Industry Museum: www. scienceandindustrymuseum. org.uk The Lowry Theatre: www. thelowry.com RHS Gardens Bridgewater: www.rhs.org.uk Coronation Street Experience: www.coronationstreetexperience. co.uk East Lancashire Railway: www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk Chester Zoo: www. chesterzoo.org Chatsworth House: www. chatsworth.org.uk The Flower Bowl entertainment centre: www. theflowerbowl.uk For many more places of interest: www.visitmanchester.com Cheers: the Circus Tavern, a former house now ‘the smallest bar in Europe’ in Portland Street, Manchester.

PHOTO: SALLY CLIFFORD

Towpath tranquillity: cyclists and pedestrians can make the most of the towpaths around Manchester. PHOTO: CANAL & RIVER TRUST

FURTHER to my July article, I can now report that, with the exception of one more bit of decorating, things at home are pretty well up to date now. One real bonus is that, after several weeks of change, my little office is once again fully operative. Surprisingly I have more or less caught up already.

My heavy involvement with things at club level has not diminished although, it has to be said, there just may be a glimmer of light at the end of the very long tunnel now. At the very least we should be able to make some progress before the onset of winter. Sadly due to ‘politics’ and an ongoing reluctance for certain parties to accept responsibility for certain things the finishing line is still some way ahead. As I had mentioned, one of the key issues has been the impact of serious flooding in the past two years especially and this procrastination continues to make myself and my colleagues increasingly frustrated and disillusioned.

Positive approach to towpath issues

As many of you know I am involved with the trust’s Towpaths Group and I detect, of late, that a more positive approach to tackling the many towpath issues is slowly emerging. You will recall me writing about the Towpath Policy Document which was released in the spring and that, thankfully, in the final version the text reflected some of the crucial points raised by our angling club customers. Once issued, the document and its impact were always going to be monitored and reviewed. We are now near the time when this can be done for the first time. I do not get the impression that things have changed that much and, indeed, there is still the odd ‘horror story’, but it will be good to hear reports from around the waterways.

However, by employing a combination of better access management and general usage combined with targeted education I am hopeful that we can all look forward to an improving situation in the future.

National Championships

Mid–August saw the Angling Trust Division 1 National Championships on the Leeds-Liverpool near Wigan. I was not able to attend but I understand that it was a great success. Credit is due to the AT team but especially all the local Wigan team for a well-organised event.

The Division 2 National is scheduled for the Aire & Calder/New Junction canals in a couple of weeks’ time. It seems they are currently putting the finishing touches to sections and access points. I believe this will be another good one.

The CRT Canal Championships are

well under way and, on looking back at my records, this will be the 11th year of this event. Not surprisingly, refinements have had to be made but the championships still provide a high-level event for our canal matchmen. The 2024 National Celebration of Young People and Fishing also looked good with well over 300 participants (see story below).

Temperatures playing havoc with fishing

Each month I comment on the changeable weather and the effect it is having on our sport. Essentially nothing has changed since last time. We are getting reasonable daytime temperatures but overnight temperatures have regularly dropped to single figures since mid-August. It is playing havoc with the fishing which is clearly reflected in results when anglers are saying they are often sitting biteless until mid-afternoon. I guess this will continue as we progress towards winter.

I have had very few reports of late and those received show indifferent results with matches on the Shroppie, Birmingham/Worcester and even my local Erewash canals being won with weights varying between 4lb and 10lb.

I did hear of one match with quite outstanding weights on the Grand Union where the winner put 37lb on the scales.

This comprised mainly bream plus one double-figure carp. Rivers appear not to have been any better with 20lb generally a good weight. A Riverfest qualifier was fished last week on the Trent close to where I live. It was really hard with sections being won with 5lb or so.

While my office was unavailable I did manage to get a few more matches in.

One or two very satisfying results too capped on Bank Holiday Monday when I put 142lb on the scales in a charity event in aid of homeless people in Derby. I had notched a third place the previous weekend with 75lb and a fourth place on my first river match for years weighing 4lb 6oz. I have one or two matches lined up on venues which I quite like so fingers crossed my little run continues.

Tight lines.

National fishing celebration gets hundreds of young people hooked HUNDREDS of young anglers travelled to the West Midlands to take part in the Canal & River Trust’s National Celebration of Young People and Fishing. Held on September 14/15 on the Shropshire Union Canal in Staffordshire & Shropshire, the event was said to be the largest gathering of young anglers in decades.

The event was part of the charity’s Let’s Fish! programme, which has introduced thousands

of young people to the sport. Let’s Fish! introductory events provide everything needed to enjoy a fishing session free on the day, such as tackle, bait, a rod licence and fishing permit, as well as expert tuition from a coach, made possible thanks to funds raised by players of People’s Postcode Lottery.

John Ellis, national fisheries and angling manager at the Canal & River Trust, said: “It’s amazing to see how

popular angling has again become among young people in recent years. We know that spending time by water is good for people’s wellbeing, and fishing is the perfect sport to take time out and clear your head. Our Let’s Fish! events have introduced thousands of young people to the sport.”

To find out more about National Celebration of Young People and Fishing visit: www. canalrivertrust.org.uk/ things-to-do/fishing

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Ocotber 2024

www.towpathtalk.co.uk

The Wet Web

By Helen Gazeley

THE cyanide spill in Walsall is major news this month, but not all water pollution is as dramatic.

Friends of the Earth (FoE) has just released a map highlighting pollution ‘hotspots’ across England.

Most of those top 10 hotspots are, as might be expected, in London. However, Salford is in second place, Worsley and Eccles in third, and Birmingham Hodge Hill and Solihull in 10th. Positions have been judged according to four levels of pollution – air, water, light and noise – and whether they are above thresholds agreed to harm wildlife. In the worst affected, thresholds are breached for all four.

According to the FoE methodology, 27% of neighbourhoods in England are pollution hotspots, but those are just the worst. The map shows that most of England has crossed the pollution threshold in at least one category. For water bodies, the FoE identified those with an Environment Agency rating of ‘poor’ or ‘bad’ and added its own threshold of 336 hours of sewage spills in 2023.

You can check the FoE assessment of the area you’re in by entering the postcode. Not so easy if you’re travelling, of course. If you can spot a nearby road name, then the Royal Mail’s website will reveal

Sewage can result in algal blooms, which reduce the amount of oxygen in the water.

PHOTO: FRIENDS OF THE EARTH

the postcode you’re in (www.royalmail.com/finda-postcode). Alternatively, UKpostcode.co.uk will find the estimated postcode from your current GPS position, if you allow access to this from your device.

The map is part of the FoE’s campaign to raise support for an act of Parliament that would enshrine people’s right to a healthy environment by law. You can throw your weight behind this at action.friendsoftheearth.uk/petition/ demand-legal-right-healthy-environment-wildlife

Light freight goes green

Water companies reported increased sewage spills in 2023. All storm overflow points are now fitted with event duration monitors, thanks to Government requirements.

All is not doom and gloom, though. While water pollution itself is a problem, our waterways are increasingly being looked at for a solution to pollution elsewhere.

In London interest is rising in the idea of moving light freight – that’s parcels, to you and me – by river.

DHL has run a river freight service since 2018 and shifted over three million tonnes of cargo via water in 2023.

With the number of parcels predicted to double

by 2030, last year The CrossRiver Partnership (CRP – an organisation that looks to address sustainability challenges) co-ordinated a four-week London Light Freight River Trail.

Goods were loaded at Dartford International Ferry Terminal, transported to Trinity Buoy Wharf (Tower Hamlets) and Bankside Pier (Southwark) and then transferred to cargo bikes and EVs to their final destinations in central London. Results found that three vans were removed from the roads per delivery trip, emissions savings included 92% for nitrous oxide and 96% for carbon dioxide, and each delivery trip by river saved over three hours’ driving time.

It's not something that can be instigated overnight. Writing in Air Quality News, CRP programme manager Fiona Coull, said: “CRP’s trial demonstrates that there is a precedent for successful and sustainable light freight operations on the Thames. However, enabling this at scale is the next task.”

Hurdles to overcome include the need for better infrastructure and navigation of pier ownership

You can find the status of your area in the Friends of the Earth pollution hotspot map by entering your postcode on its website.

PHOTO: FRIENDS OF THE EARTH

structures, which can involve a large number of organisations. Further trials should help establish the level of investment needed to overcome these and other challenges.

It's an exciting outlook, though, as increased small freight traffic would not only improve delivery time reliability and offer new business opportunities, but help reduce air and noise pollution and traffic congestion – a small step towards reducing the colour depth on the FoE map and making life healthier for humans and wildlife.

Find the map at friendsoftheearth.uk/nature/ do-you-live-pollution-hotspot.

Finally, the chemical spill at Walsall. The Canal and River Trust set up a crowdfunding appeal, hoping to raise £10,000 to help rehabilitate the canal and its wildlife. A day after the appeal was launched, an anonymous donor pledged the full amount. Since then a new target has been established – £25,000, of which over £22,000 had been raised at the time of writing. The appeal closes midday on November 1 and can be found here: www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/walsallspill

Heritage under the hammer

A summer of auctions that included a flurry of canal and inland waterways memorabilia in their line-up saw, among other highlights, a Scottish loch poster sell for four figures, two Norfolk Broads posters attracting interest, and a 76-year-old Ian Allan booklet about canals that will be a treasure trove of information and nostalgia for the successful bidder. Geoff Courtney reports on a busy auction scene.

THE top-selling poster went under the hammer at a GW Railwayana auction on July 21 for £1100 and featured a steam passenger vessel on Loch Lomond. It was issued jointly by the LMS and LNER and was the work of top maritime artist Norman Wilkinson (1878-1971).

A second poster in the same auction was a BR issue promoting the east coast yachting centre of Brightlingsea in Essex. It was by another leading maritime artist, Frank Mason (1875-1965), and went for £500.

Talisman Railwayana’s July 13 auction at Newark was the setting for the brace of Norfolk Broads posters that went for £640 and £300. Both were also the work of Frank Mason, the first being a BR issue promoting ‘the holiday that is different,’ while the second was an LNER poster illustrating leisure craft and eel fishing. A BR Western Region ‘The enchanting River Dart’ poster by Charles King (1901-90) also sold in the auction, for £100.

This BR Norfolk Broads poster sold for £640 at a Talisman Railwayana auction on July 13.

PHOTO: TALISMAN RAILWAYANA

Ian Allan ABCs were a vital element of transport enthusiasts’ armoury in the 1940s – the first was published in 1942 – and throughout the ensuing decade, and although much of the accent was on railway locomotives, cars and

buses, a canals booklet was published in 1948.

This delightful booklet was written by H Newton, and an example was in a collection of six ABCs on a variety of subjects that sold as a single lot for £65 in the quarterly email and postal sale held by Paperchase Auctions from July 14-30. Subjects within the 64 pages range from the English canal system and canal craft (and the people who live in them) to a journey by canal boat and a list of Grand Union Company’s boats, and the copy that went under the hammer also included its original map of the country’s canals.

Other canalia in the auction were three 18th and 19th-century Parliamentary Acts, the oldest and highest priced being a 1774 Act for amending the Act for making the Aire & Calder Canal, which went for £16.

Final mention goes to Lacy Scott & Knight of Bury St Edmunds, whose collectables

The Blackwater estuary and St Mary’s Church are central to a railway carriage print of Maldon that sold for £90 at a Lacy Scott & Knight auction on June 21.

PHOTO: LACY SCOTT & KNIGHT

auction on June 21 included a railway carriage print of Maldon in Essex by Henry Denham (1893-1961). The painting by Denham shows a Blackwater estuary scene with the 12th century St Mary’s Church in the background and sold for £90.

The realisations quoted for the GW Railwayana and Talisman Railwayana auctions exclude buyer’s premium of 15% (+ VAT), that for Paperchase 12.5%, and for Lacy Scott & Knight 22.5% (+ VAT).

‘The enchanting River Dart’ is the title of a BR Western Region poster that realised £100 at Talisman Railwayana’s July 13 sale.

PHOTO: TALISMAN RAILWAYANA

This Ian Allan Canals booklet was part of collection that went under the hammer for £65 at a two-week email and postal sale held by Paperchase Auctions in July. PHOTO: PAPERCHASE AUCTIONS

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www.towpathtalk.co.uk October 2024

A passage in time

There’s more to the tunnels on our canal network than meets the eye. John Souter continues his new series, exploring the wonders of our extensive range of canal tunnels.

TO FACILITATE the efficient working of the canal network, approximately 42 miles of tunnels were constructed in England and Wales, of which about half are still open.

This is more than the combined length of all other canal tunnels in the world and doesn’t include the extra (approx) 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 over three miles, along the 2000+ miles of our inland waterways.

Let’s take a look at this month’s…

Dudley tunnel completed June 1779

For Lord Ward to get his coal and limestone from nearby mines to the main canal network it meant getting past nearby Castle Hill.

Building locks over the hill was expensive and time-consuming, so rather than go over the hill he decided to through it, thereby creating the tunnel.

The contract went to John Pinkerton, but he was dismissed in 1787 for work considered unsatisfactory and he had to repay half of his £4000 construction

bond. Isaac Pratt then resigned in May 1789 because the tunnel wasn’t straight – having deviated from its line in several places. Josiah Clowes then took over and by 1792 the various parts of the tunnel had been connected.

The first section of the tunnel took four years to construct using only picks, shovels and gunpowder.

The setting of gunpowder charges was an especially difficult job for grown men so boys aged 9+, who were by this age able to work with their fathers as miners, had the job of lighting the fuses, primarily because once lit the boys could run away faster than an adult! Unfortunately, some of the fuses were unreliable and 1 in 7 of the boys were killed in detonationrelated accidents.

The tunnel is only wide enough for one-way working and as ‘time was money’ leggers had a maximum of four hours to work a boat through the whole 1.8 miles of tunnel or face paying a fine.

Boats were allowed to travel through for four hours in one direction before the direction was reversed. In 1830 the eachway travel time was further reduced to three hours. A renowned legger, Jack Wheeler, who once he’d legged a boat for some distance by lying on his back,

Dudley tunnel. PHOTO: TANYA DEDYUKHINA - CC BY 3.0

then turned on his side so that he could ‘run’ the remaining distance of the tunnel wall.

It is arguably the second longest surviving tunnel on the network, although this is a moot point as the tunnel is not strictly continuous. It is in fact divided by Castle Mill Basin, 70ft across at the bottom, sloping outwards and upwards towards the sky, and lined with trees, and also Shirts Mill basin, so it could be argued that the length is in fact three separate tunnels.

Despite initial problems, the tunnel was a commercial success with boat passages in 1853 exceeding 41,000 being legged through. This was the equivalent of 100 boats per day and at times there could be a two-mile queue of boats waiting to enter the tunnel.

By 1959 traffic through the tunnel had virtually ceased and the British Transport Commission wanted to close it. In 1960 the IWA organised a cruise through the tunnel to protest against its closure but as traffic continued to diminish the canal and tunnel finally closed in 1962.

After its closure a group of enthusiasts decided to attempt to travel through the tunnel, but having passed through it they discovered when reaching Park Head locks that these had been deliberately damaged to prevent further navigation.

Fortunately, this proved fortuitous as on returning through the tunnel they discovered a bottle with a message in it.

It was because of contacting the writers of the message that plans were made to attempt to rescue the tunnel from any further deterioration and the first steps taken to do this was to arrange regular trips through the tunnel on Sundays.

To try and prevent this British Waterways erected barriers at the entrance to the tunnel, but these were swiftly removed.

The activities of the campaigners were formalised by the creation of the Dudley Tunnel Committee, which was subsequently approached by the Workers’ Educational Association about a trip through the tunnel. Press advertising invited people who were interested in ‘a last chance’ trip to attend and, as a result, 300 people turned up and a second boat had to be organised with 150 people being crammed into each boat.

This success led in part to the formation of the Dudley Canal Tunnel Preservation Society (DCTPS), later the Dudley Canal Trust, which was then funded to restore the canal and tunnel by Dudley council

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

Continuous cruising licence or sell?

Dear Towpath Talk, We sold our Viking Boat in May 2024. We were unable to find a suitable mooring in the area of River Lee. We did join a boat club, however, they said they were unable to offer a suitable mooring and felt it best if we did not belong to the club, for which they gave no reason. We felt very upset.

We then had a choice to either continue with the boat and get a continuous cruising licence with

the CRT or to sell the boat, which we eventually did after 25 years on the rivers and canals. We still walk along the rivers Lee and Stort.

However, I am surprised at the number of boats that don’t seem to move every 14 days.

Kind regards Ray Royal perch for kingfisher

Dear Towpath Talk, Please find (below) a photo of a kingfisher on the sign post at the Langley Mill basin. This was the point where the Erewash Canal ended and the Cromford Canal and the Nottingham Canal joined.

The photo was taken by John Barker, vice-chair of the Friends of Cromford Canal. The kingfisher sat for about five minutes.

Regards John Guyler Friends of Cromford Canal work parties.

A kingfisher on the sign post at the Langley Mill basin.

PHOTO: JOHN BARKER

and, somewhat ironically, British Waterways. By funding half of the cost of the repairs Dudley became the first local authority in the country to finance canal restoration.

Easter 1973 saw the reopening of the tunnel, advertised as TRAD1973 (Tunnel Reopening at Dudley 1973) which was a great success with 300 boats and over 14,000 visitors attending.

The trust then began running trips through the tunnel where boats were at first legged through. Understandably this was a very tiring process and, as a result, the boat was converted to electric power, renamed Electra, and became the first electric passengercarrying boat in the country.

In 1979 subsidence caused a major collapse in the tunnel 440 yards from the southern portal. It took over 10 years to find the finance to pay for the

repairs during which time the tunnel was closed. The tunnel was eventually reopened in 1992.

A strict timetable of passage is imposed with a ban on engines creating exhaust fumes, but there is a tug available for towed passage through the tunnel by prior arrangement.

Interestingly the tunnel was originally measured at 3172yds but this was amended to its shortened length of 3154yds as a result of a working party having carefully legged through the tunnel and accurately measuring its total length again.

The tunnel is perhaps unique among canal tunnels in that it is licensed for civil weddings, with the bride arriving on a Dudley Canal Trust tug. The actual ceremony is performed in the Singing Cavern, which has room for 50 guests on land and a further 50 on a boat.

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October 2024

www.towpathtalk.co.uk

Focus on Ed Helps

In this issue, we focus on Ed Helps, former managing director of ABC Leisure, and find out more about his work and what he feels are the challenges facing the waterways.

By Phil Pickin

ED HELPS was born in East London and left school at 16 before gaining qualifications through the Open University. He was a competitive canoeist, completing the 125-mile Devizes to Westminster race and many more international canoe marathons.

He went on to qualify as a British Canoe Union coach and examiner in an effort to put something back into the sport he’d enjoyed. He readily admits to having always had an interest in boats and waterways and spent many hours training on the canals around London.

Ed then went on to achieve the rank of Staff Sergeant/Platoon Commander in the Royal Military Police reserves, which provided, in his own words “great experiences”.

He also worked for the AA in the motor industry and qualified as an advanced driver and motorcyclist – using these skills to raise money for charity by taking part in Enduro India on motorcycles and driving a 1960 Ford Thames Dormobile on the Italian Job, an annual charity run to Italy for vehicles that featured in the 1966 film raising money for a children’s charity.

He has also ridden a HarleyDavidson across America on the iconic Route 66 and then down the Pacific Coast Highway from Canada to Mexico, as well as on another trip taking a Royal Enfield bullet across the Himalayas through the Khardung La pass, the highest motorable road in the world.

Ed has now retired from canoeing and motorcycling and moved to cycling to keep fit.

He has taken part in a number of charity rides and completed the Land’s End to John O’ Groats challenge. He has also planned and ridden several European long-distance routes of 1000 miles.

TT: Where in the UK are you based?

EH: I live in Worcestershire, close to

the Droitwich Canal and near the centre of the canal network.

TT: When did you first start working within the inland waterways sector, and for whom?

EH: In 1998 I had a career change from

the motor industry and started running Alvechurch Boat Centres with three hire bases, now the much bigger company known as ABC Leisure Group.

TT: What position do you hold, and what do these involve?

EH: Having stepped down as managing

director, I am now a non-executive director, a role that provides support to, and challenges, the executive team.

TT: We understand that you held a board position within British Marine until recently. Can you tell us more about this role and what you achieved in it?

EH: For six years, I was a non-executive

director on the British Marine Group board. This position helped to guide the direction of BM in modernising and supporting the industry. As non-executive directors, we represented the membership within the organisation and supported the executive team in delivering the objectives. The responsibilities included the delivery of the Southampton International Boat Show.

TT: We also understand that there is going to be a reorganisation of the inland waterways groups within BM, assuming it is passed at the AGM and you are elected as the first chair of this new group, what will be your aims?

EH: Many years ago, APCO (Now BM

inland boating) and the CBA (now Inland Boat Building) were two organisations.

I was previously on the executive of BM Inland Boating until I took up the

Ed Helps at Alvechurch Marina. PHOTO: SUPPLIED position on the BM group board. ABC is a member of both organisations, as are a lot of the members, and many have the same challenges and objectives, so it makes sense to bring both organisations back together to share knowledge and represent the inland sector.

There are some areas that will only affect or interest some parts of the new group, or may require specialist knowledge; this is where project groups will be formed to investigate and lead on these.

TT: What do you feel are the main challenges to businesses operating on the waterways at the moment?

EH: The general economic situation

and uncertainty create some of the biggest challenges for all businesses.

The underfunding of the navigation authorities that maintain the waterways

which we all rely on to operate our businesses are a real threat.

TT: How do you see the new group being able to help with those?

EH: We are stronger together,

representing the inland boating industry having a bigger voice. Expertise and contacts within both sectors can be shared for the overall development and success of the industry.

TT: How do you feel about the future of the waterways? (positive or negative) EH: The canals and rivers are a fantastic

environment for boating activities and relaxation. They are part of the unique history of the UK and are used and visited by many people from home and abroad for many different activities, not just boating.

The biggest challenge to businesses is

the reliability and maintenance of these waterways. Very few people visit a canal or river, or go boating, and come back saying they will never do this again.

TT: Your website details a number of challenges you’ve undertaken in the past. Do you have any others planned?

EH: I have just returned from a 600

mile cycle trip to Paris during the Olympics and I have nothing planned... but I am sure something will present itself over the winter.

I believe the achievement of physical goals is a state of mind. The body will do more than the mind believes it can. This is no different for anything in life that you do. Planning, practice and training gives you the confidence that anything is possible. Determination and focus ensures you achieve it.

Events, dear boy... and the ability to be flexible when needed

NABO general secretary Peter Braybrook comments on some more topical issues.

only be open to boats of less than 6ft 9in (2.05m) wide. This effectively removed the Worcester and Birmingham Canal from the list of navigable waterways as the great majority of narrowboats are built to a beam of 6ft 10in. Mine certainly was in 1984. The notice was amended the next day stating that boats of 213.4 cm (7ft) beam would get stuck so, thankfully, the canal remains open.

Continuous moorers

PERSONALLY, our boating has not been impeded by unplanned stoppages but many have had their itineraries altered by unexpected events.

We have become used to expecting the unexpected in the same way as we anticipate the boat coming the other way at the next bridge hole.

But least expected was the notice of a restriction for Tardebigge Top Lock No 58 to

There has been some chatter about the problem of ‘continuous moorers’.

Our regular columnist in NABO News has pointed out that no boat is ‘continuously cruising’ and most boats spend most of their life moored.

An inland waterways craft is very unlikely to operate like an ocean liner or freighter, which moors for the shortest period possible to take on passengers and supplies or cargo. The rest of its time is spent plying the oceans.

There are now very few commercial craft that work the waterways in the way of the working boats of the past

which tied up only overnight or to discharge and load cargo.

The hire fleets should be like this. Their existence is to be out providing leisure to their hirers and profit to their owners. Too often recently there have been reports of fleets tied up at their bases, which is not good for anybody.

There will always be those who ignore the rules and moor on water points, lock landings and visitor moorings for longer than they should.

These are as common on canals as the cars that park inconsiderately on pavements and disabled crossing points.

There is a section of society that thinks they are entitled to do as they like. In the town centres, there are many parking enforcement officers and traffic managers who put tickets on offending cars and keep the roads flowing. Even so, not everybody gets caught every time. And some seem to think if one does not get caught the bad behaviour is somehow exonerated and okay. Of course, it isn’t. On the canals, there are not enough enforcement

officers to even patrol the hot spots, and so the chance of getting caught by the navigation authority is very small. All we can do when we come to clogged visitor moorings or facilities is moan about it and move on hoping for a space at the next one.

Licence terms

Of course, such behaviour is covered on Canal and River Trust waters by the ‘General Terms and Conditions for Boat Licenses’, which we assent to when we renew our licences.

I doubt that everybody reads them or understands them. For instance, are we all on a genuine journey when away from our home mooring? In our case, we are going there and back again and taking our time about it. May to October in fact. There is an undefined destination. We are away from the home mooring and enjoying the variety of the English countryside.

But we have a home life as well as a boat life. So sometimes the boat will be unused while we attend to matters at home.

Is this unreasonable?

Can the navigation authority tell us how we should use our boats? Apparently, the journey cannot ‘contain short, repeated movement over a small part of the waterway for an extended period’. What does that mean?

Can one define ‘short’, ‘small part’ and ‘extended period’? And why are we limited by the terms and conditions to mooring for 14 days when, according to the 1995 BW Act, boats without a home mooring can moor for any period that is reasonably necessary?

My guess was that it was to explain the reason for an overstay that the dog-eared light faded message ‘Broken Down’ was Sellotaped inside a window of an empty boat moored on a lock landing. It is often ignored that not only do the navigation authorities have the power to enforce terms and conditions for the provision of their services, but they also have the power to waive them. That ‘offending’ boat may have been granted permission to overstay.

Only the navigation authority and the owner will know or need to know the circumstances.

NABO does not wish to see any sort of divisiveness. We

warned the trust that this could come about by the imposition of surcharges effectively treating some boats differently from others. All boaters should enjoy the benefits of boating without criticism, and with respect from other boaters who may use their boats in a different way from ourselves: Vive la difference!”as the French would say.

Winter approaches so we need to keep an eye on stoppage notices. All the winter works programme is now included on the navigation notices and stoppages pages on the CRT website, so please review this before making a journey.

Everything from fallen trees to works by HS2 are listed.

It is relatively easy to search for the waterway you hope to navigate between desired dates to reveal the intentions of the trust. As in years past, all stoppages are subject to change, sometimes at short notice. There is a useful facility to register for text or email notifications if you so desire; as I was writing this I was alerted to the navigation restriction at Tardebigge noted above.

www.towpathtalk.co.uk October 2024

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October 2024

“I like a home with lots of spare rooms filled with clutter that we never use.” (said no one ever) There’s another way.

Choose freedom, together with Aquavista.

www.towpathtalk.co.uk