176 The Butty Autumn 2006

The Kennet & Avon Canal’s own magazine

the

Butty No. 176 Autumn 2006 £2.50

Claverton Pumping Station — the work goes on Water festivals at Newbury & Reading

The K&A’s lost wharves — Newbury Walking in the Pewsey Vale

Working to protect, to enhance and to promote The Kennet & Avon Canal

Bar code

Newbury Boat Company Moorings Permanent non-residential and temporary cruising moorings with good security at three sites in Newbury all within walking distance of the town.

Resident staff at all sites.

Tel: 01635 42884 email: newburyboatco@dial.pipex.com The river at Lock Cottage moorings

All-Aboard Marine Services Dry Dock/Repairs and Maintenance for hull blacking, welding, anode replacement, surveys and hull maintenance.

Also available for DIY

All types of boat repairs and maintenance including Boat Safety Examinations

Tel: Paul Hutley — 01635 37606 email: paul@aamarine.co.uk Ham Manor Basin from the river

Greenham Canal Services At Greenham Island Between Greenham Lock and Newbury Lock

Boat Services/Chandlery, Diesel, Pumpout, Calor Gas, Coal etc.

Souvenirs and ice cream

Tel: Val or Peter Taylor — 01635 31672 email: enquiries@canal-services.com Greenham Island

Newbury Boat Company Greenham Lock Cottage, Ampere Road, Newbury, RG14 5SN 2

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Butty

contents

Cover photograph: Hotel Boat at Bishops Cannings

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The magazine for the Kennet & Avon Canal

6 pages of K&A news

No. 176 Autumn 2006 Picture by Bob Naylor The Trust and its aims The Kennet & Avon Canal Trust has three separate but complementary objectives: • To protect the newly restored Canal from neglect, abuse and inappropriate developments.

• To enhance the Canal, either by the direct application of Trust funds more likely, to unlock larger amounts through matched funding.

• To promote the Canal as a magnificent national amenity that is freely available for the enjoyment of all.

President Sir Anthony Durant Vice Presidents Sir William Benyon Peter Collins Donald Collinson Michael Corfield The Rt Hon The Earl Jellicoe Michael Goodenough David Lamb Admiral Sir William O'Brien Philip Ogden Brian Oram Sir Frank Price Prunella Scales Sir John Smith Timothy West Chairman Brian Poulton Company Secretary Fleur de Rhé-Philipe Administrator Mo Crossley e-mail: asstadmin@btconnect.com Hon Treasurer John Heffer Hon Civil Engineer Michael Lee Museum Curator Warren Berry Trust Council David Copley Michael Davis

Fleur de Rhé-Philipe Graeme Dewhirst Peter Dunn Bill Fisher John Forbes John Heffer Roger Hollands John Kirby Ray Knowles Michael Lee John Maciver Brian Poulton Enterprise x x x x x X Editor Di Harris Pear Tree Studio High Street Urchfont Devizes SN10 4QH 01380 840584 07711 367124 di@thebutty.co.uk Editorial, Design & layout Bob Naylor 07788 134901 bob@thebutty.co.uk For Advertising Contact Di Harris or Bob Naylor Printers BAS Printer Premier Way Abbey Park Industrial Estate Romsey Hampshire SO51 9AQ 01794 834605

Michael Horseman looks back to the Trust’s earlier days

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The Basingstoke Canal

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K&A lost wharves — Newbury

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Walk the K&A and Wansdyke near Horton & Bishops Cannings

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Jane Clements canal artist

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Claverton -— the work continues

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Reading Waterfest

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Newbury Waterfest

or,

It was The Kennet & Avon Canal Trust (through its predecessor organisations) that fought successfully to save the Canal from formal abandonment in the mid1950s. Through physical effort, innovative fund-raising and persistent political pressure, the Trust led the campaign that resulted in the Canal’s re-opening for through navigation in 1990 and the subsequent £30 million restoration project from 1996 to 2003. The Canal’s infrastructure is now in a condition that will support sustained operations for many decades ahead.

The Trust’s membership reflects the wide range of leisure activities – boating, walking, cycling, fishing, pursuit of wildlife and heritage interests – that the public can enjoy along the length of the 87 miles of Canal. Together, we are “The Friends of the Kennet and Avon”.

The Kennet & Avon Canal Trust Devizes Wharf Couch Lane Devizes Wiltshire SN10 1EB. 01380 721279 01380 727870 (fax) www.katrust.org

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Contributions Articles and photographs are welcome. Please contact the Editor to discuss your ideas before submitting them. Whilst every care is taken with all material submitted, neither the Editor nor the publisher can take responsibility for loss or damage.

Disclaimer Views expressed in The Butty are not necessarily those of the Editor nor of the Trust.

Registered Charity The Trust is a registered charity (No CC209206) and a company limited by guarantee registered in England (No 726331) at the above address. The Butty is published by The Kennet & Avon Canal Trust of the same address.

Data Protection Act The Trust is registered under the Data Protection Act 1984, reference SO46307X. Subject access requests should be directed to the Trust office in Devizes.

Copy deadline for The Butty No 177, Winter 2006 Tuesday 16th July 2006

Plus regular features and branch news 4 Chairman’s report, 11 BW update, 12 Marketing report, 13 Safety report and Museum news, 17 Cotswold Canals 18 Wilts & Berks news, 24 Page for younger readers, 25 Wildlife, 29 Branch reports, 35 Reviews, 36 Letters to the Editor, 38 What’s on and Unclassified ads, 39 Crossword 3

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Butty

No. 176 Autumn 2006

Chairman’s Report Brian Poulton

O

ur prayers have been answered, and I’m delighted to be able to welcome four kind souls who have agreed to take on positions of authority within the Trust.

Welcome, David Lindop Even the most ardent Butty reader will have lost track of how many times we appealed for a new Trust Treasurer to replace John Heffer.

We — and John in particular — are delighted to welcome aboard David Lindop.

Welcome, Ken and Jill Allen Ken Allen has taken over the reins as the new Managing Director of our trading arm, Enterprise (Ltd) and his wife Jill is the new Finance Director.

Farewell, Terry Kemp On page 37 we carry an appreciation of the contribution that Terry Kemp made to the Kennet & Avon Canal during his long career with British Waterways.

Terry retired from BW at the end of July and, on behalf of the Trust (and particularly those members involved in the projects of the early 1990s), I must express our sincere thanks for his hard work, his loyalty and commitment to the Canal’s restoration, and the infectious enthusiasm with which he tackles any issue.

IWA mooring policy supported The Inland Waterways Association has recently published a new policy statement in support of the creation of new off-line moorings rather than linear moorings, particularly in popular areas and near bottlenecks.

As many boaters are finding

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out for themselves, cruising in some areas of the system is marred by having to pass mile after mile of moored craft. The IWA’s concern and its new statement are in line with the Trust’s position which was explained in my article on Page 11 of Butty No. 168 (Summer 2004), and we therefore welcome the IWA’s stance on this issue.

Crews needed for Devizes trip boat The Trust has the opportunity to take over the trip-boat ‘Kenavon Venture’ that Ian Sharp has been operating from Devizes Wharf for decades.

However, whether we proceed or not depends on our ability to raise the numbers of skippers, steerers and galley staff that would be needed to run a programme of public and charter trips.

The other three boats operated by the Trust have a combined force of some 70 qualified skippers and about 140 crew, but even that number cannot absorb the workload of a fourth boat. So, an appeal is being made for anyone who might be interested in being part of a trip-boat operation from Devizes. Please register your interest with our Director of Boat Operations — John Shaw — on 0117 975 6271 or via e-mail at JohnShaw@stoke362.freeserve. co.uk.

Crofton only open for steaming Following the unexpected departure of Alan and Catriona Flaherty, the recently appointed joint wardens at Crofton, I have taken the decision to close Crofton except on steaming days until their replacements can be found.

Brian Poulton, Chairman

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avid Lindop, who succeeds John Heffer as treasurer of the Trust, has an interest in canals that stems from childhood.

“My father managed a Royal Doulton factory straddling the Trent & Mersey Canal and to betray my age, I can just remember working narrow boats delivering the china clay, and then the coal to fire the bottle ovens.” he says.

“After many enjoyable holidays on the canal system, we bought a Sea Otter boat in 2000. Initially, it was moored on the River Wey near Guildford and provided the perfect refuge from suburban living.”

In 2004, he and his wife Jonelle, abandoned suburbia and now live near Avoncliff.

“At this time we took our boat through the full length of the K&A Canal and enjoyed every moment, - except for

David Lindop, Trust Treasurer those new lock gears!”

This, and many subsequent experiences, highlighted the vitality of the Trust.

Originally a civil engineer, he worked for an American bank for 25 years, including an interesting period in shipping finance.

“If this sounds like the perfect CV for Trust Treasurer” says John “it is not. The ships tended to be Greek and Chinese supertankers!”

Though now retired from the bank, he still spends a lot of time as a trustee of its pension scheme.

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eather Hoyle and her husband, John, moved to Wiltshire 3 years ago. She volunteered at Bradford on Avon for two seasons before becoming the Assistant to Jane Clements, the Retail Manager at Devizes, in June. She has retail experience in cosmetics and enjoys her increased involvement with the Trust.

Heather Hoyle, Assistant Retail Manager

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elen joined the team in May. She has worked in finance ever since leaving school, and brings a wealth of experience from jobs in local government, social services and the trades union, Unison.

She has two daughters and in her ‘spare time’ she sells second hand books on ebay.

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he advertisement on our website seeking a new Managing Director of our trading arm, Enterprise (Ltd) caught the eye of Ken Allen Ken lives beside the Canal at Aldermaston, he is passionate about canals, and he has vast experience not only of business but also of working with volunteers in other canal societies.

His wife, Jill, acts as ‘Mrs Figures’ for their joint business consultancy and she has volunteered to fill the vacant Finance Director post on the Enterprise Board.

Helen Flavin, Finance Assistant Enterprise Almost a case of ‘buy one, get one free’!

We welcome them both aboard and we hope they enjoy meeting with — and working with — our teams of helpers on the boats and in the shops and tearooms.

Ken and Jill Allen join Enterprise

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No. 176 Autumn 2006

Newbury’s black swans gone

Picture by Bob Naylor

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he black swans on the Kennet & Avon Canal at Newbury were regularly attacked by the white swans — recently one of the pair was found dead by a canal walker — leaving two cygnets with only one parent. To protect them from further attacks from the white swans they have now been removed to a private lake by the Eton based Swan Lifeline.

National award for K&A pub

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Picture by Bob Naylor

ue Jacobs and Kevin Maul of the Bridge Inn Horton were delighted to hear that they had been voted 8th best pub in a national competition run by Canal Boat and Inland Waterways Magazine to find their readers’ most popular canalside pubs.

Both keen boaters, Sue and Kevin, took over the canal-side pub 6 years ago.

They had no idea the competition was being run until the magazine phoned them to say they had done so well.

And this isn’t the first time Sue and Kevin have won accolades — their previous pub, in Great Shefford near Newbury was listed in the top three pubs between London and Cornwall by The Daily Telegraph travel supplement.

Trust shop chosen for national heritage open day

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he Kennet & Avon Canal Trust’s Shop and Visitor Centre at Aldermaston has been chosen to take part in a nationwide event that promotes historic buildings and places of special interest.

Every year on four days in September, buildings of every age, style and function throw

open their doors to the public.

They range from castles to factories, town halls to tithe barns and parish churches to Buddhist temples.

It is a once-a-year chance to discover hidden architectural treasures and enjoy a wide range of tours, events and activities which bring to life

local history and culture.

Aldermaston Parish Council wants to include the former canal worker’s cottage as part of a group of buildings open in village for the event, which takes place from 7th to 10th September.

Paddle gear fact finding tour

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epresentatives from the K&A Canal Trust and British Waterways have been on a fact finding tour of trial paddle gear installed in the wake of widespread condemnation of their 3:1 gearing modifications to gate paddles on the K&A Canal.

They saw for themselves the range of paddle gearings that the public are being asked to report on this summer.

There are now 5 sets of paddle gearings in the consultation process, namely Aldermaston Lock, Bulls Lock, Hungerford Lock, and Lock 44 and Lock 43 at the top of Caen Hill, Devizes.

By way of comparison, information is also sought on the hydraulic paddle gearing at Kintbury Lock and the reduction gearing at Wootton Rivers.

The boating public are still being asked to report their opinions on the various gearings.

Red diesel update

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ames Elles, the South-East region Conservative Euro MP, is determined to fight on to stop the cost of red diesel rising by a third for the UK’s pleasure craft owners.

At the moment Britain, along with four other Member States, is allowed an exemption from higher rate duty on red diesel for pleasure craft and “liveaboards,” but this is due to end in December this year.

James Elles, who addressed a large meeting in Hungerford organised by Trust members Rob and Ann Mayell in February said he would strongly support keeping an exemption for British pleasure craft.

He will put down a parliamentary question and would be happy to lead a delegation of boat owners and interested parties to the European Commissioner responsible for taxation and customs union, László Kovacs, to put the case for a continuing exemption.

The Government, under pressure from MPs from all parties, including Newbury’s Conservative MP Richard Benyon, agreed to ask the European Commission to continue the UK’s exemption.

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No. 176 Autumn 2006

Boat facilitities reduced in Bath

Stalag Stone Building

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oaters in the Bath valley are concerned about reduced servics at the western end of the canal.

Richard Clarke of Bath Narrowboats explained, “We have closed our Elsan and pump out station because it has become increasinginly expensive to maintain.

During the season we are extremely busy with hire boat turnarounds and that must take priority over diesel sales and pump-outs”.

Fishing advice for boat hirers

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fishing advice leaflet for K&A Canal boat hirers has been issued by British Waterways with the following advice: • Slow down when passing anglers and keep as near to the centre of the channel as possible — do not move to the banks • Get day tickets in advance from tackle shops or Angling Associations if you want to fish on the K&A • Get an Environment Agency Rod Licence before fishing • Fish from the bank — not from your boat

Caen Hill pub plan

Severe storm stops canal

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rofton back pump was out of action following severe storms over a July weekend which lead to a drop of 15 inches in the water level on the Wootton Rivers and Crofton flights.

Emergency stoppages were imposed until the water levels recovered.

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ldermaston Swing Bridge could be replaced by a footbridge if plans for the A4 corridor proposed by West Berkshire Council are adopted.

The swing bridge currently carries the A340 road southwards from the A4 across the canal and on to Tadley and Basingstoke.

The bridge is closed to boats during rush hour periods but at other times of the day bridge operation frequently brings traffic to a halt.

The next road crossing of the canal to the west of Aldermaston is at Frouds Bridge, and the proposal is to re-route the A340 along a widened Frouds Lane and over Frouds Bridge and then Aldermaston Swing Bridge could be dismantled.

If you want to have your say about these plans go to the A4 Corridor Consultation link at www.westberks.gov.uk

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he Trust’s Stone Building on Newbury Wharf was put under seige when West Berkshire Council instructed contractors to use the the car park for a secure compound.

The compound is being used to store heavy equipment and materials for revamping Newbury town centre.

Shop Manager, Tracy Perryman was horrified to find fencing being put up that

practically blocked the shop off from customers — with a portable toilet sited only feet from the cafe entrance.

After numerous meetings and telephone calls with the Council, Tracy managed to have the fencing moved back, signs put up to advertise the fact the shop was still open and as a gesture of goodwill Hope and Clay donated £350 to the Newbury Waterways Festival.

Pewsey now pay and display

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ritish waterways started charging for parking at Pewsey Wharf car park on 11th August.

Graham Lee, who runs the Waterfront Inn at the Wharf, said that his customers often found it hard to find a parking space. He asked BW to install the pay and display machines to encourage canal visitors to use the carpark thoughtfully, and not leave cars there all day.

Picture by Bob Naylor

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new pub and restaurant complex for the top of Caen Hill is still being investigated by British Waterways.

The K&A Canal Trust have reaffirmed an interest in the possibility of relocating the Devizes Canal Museum and shop to the same site.

BW are discussing broad plans with developers and the Trust await details of the possible financial commitment.

Aldermaston Swing Bridge demolition plan

Care for Devizes Canal Centre

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ent and lease negotiations with Kennet District Council drag on but the condition of the Devizes Canal Centre continues to deteriorate.

The building had been used as the local authority dustcart depot and was derelict when the Trust took it over in 1980.

Trust volunteers brought the building back to life and it is now a vital part of Devizes Wharf. But the years have taken their toll and Trust Chairman, Brian Poulton, has called on the members of Devizes Branch to

mastermind a programme of maintenance and repair in the next few months.

The external woodwork of the building has received a much-needed coat of black paint, but there is still a lot more to be done.

Branch Chairman Roger Hollands and teams of volunteers will be tackling a list of jobs that vary from external painting to fixing kitchen cabinet hinges.

Working parties will be organised for weekends in the

Autumn for external and internal painting jobs, kitchen refurbishment, stonework repointing and some modifications to improve access for people with disabilities.

We know the names of some volunteer handymen and handywomen but, if any readers would like to lend a hand for an afternoon or so please call either Roger Hollands on 01249 650952 or Mo Crossley at the Trust Office on 01380 721279.

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Butty NEWS

No. 176 Autumn 2006

Water meadow

Picture by Bob Naylor

Taking a meadow by boat from Bath to London — above the Caen Hill Flight he K&A was host to an ‘Meadow’ doesn’t answer the Grand Union Canal at Collaborative innovative arts project this this question, but rather turns it Brentford, then on to the summer when sculptor around, taking a slice of Regent’s Canal at Paddington project

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Tania Kovats took her floating meadow from Bath to London on the butty ‘Betelgeuse’ pulled by the tug ‘James Loader’.

Boaters, walkers and cyclists were amazed to see a meadow floating past them, complete with the most delightful meadow flowers, including bettany, oxide daisies, buttercups, sorrell, thistles, cow parsley, meadowsweet, teasel, blue pimpernel, cellandiane, ruby moon, clarkia, burdock and many more — all chosen to flower during the journey.

Tania is an internationally renowned sculpture with a reputation for working with the environment. Her inspiration for ‘Meadow’ came from questioning how landscape moves the people who travel through it.

landscape and moving it along the route of the canal, passing a diverse and unexpected — and perhaps unexpecting — audience en route.

On the way to London, ‘Meadow’ stopped off at Reading Water Fest where the sculpture was awarded a special prize by the boat adjudicating team. Reading branch chairman, Mike Wyatt described ‘Meadow’ as very, very pretty and an interesting project. “I doubt we shall ever see anything like it again”, he added. His sympathy went to Peter Boyce, who owns ‘Betelgeuse’ because Peter had the job of watering the 50ft x 6ft ‘Meadow’ every day to keep it in perfect condition.

After leaving Reading, ‘Meadow’ joined the Thames and headed for the junction with

Basin — and crossing London to the East End, where ‘Meadow’ spent- 1st July moored at one of the contemporary art venues that are located on that part of the canal system.

An unusual cargo for ‘Betelgeuse’ Peter Boyce’s boats were working boats in the 1930s to 1970s. The tug, James Loader was built of oak and elm in Birmingham in 1946 and towed canal boats for a living up to 1962. ‘Betelgeuse’ was built in steel and elm for the Grand Union Carrying Company in 1935 and worked up to the 1970s. But they will never have had a cargo like this to carry before.

‘Meadow’ involves a range of collaborative processes and input from others including support from BW, The K&A Canal Trust, Wiltshire College, The Henry Moore Foundation and the staff, students and technical staff of the Bath Spa University, School of Art and Design.

‘Meadow’ was commissioned for Bath Sculpture Garden, a programme led by sculptor Michael Pennie. The aim of the Sculpture Garden is to revive the tradition of contemporary sculpture in Bath, and contribute to the visual culture of the city. It is supported by the Henry Moore Foundation and Arts Council England and sponsored by Fielden Clegg Bradley, award-winning Bath and London based architects.

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Butty NEWS

No. 176 Autumn 2006

Web Editor needed

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Ideally, our volunteer will be able to make minor modifications to the layout, establish links to other sites, and help us to set up web shopping and mail-order for our souvenirs, books and clothing.

If you are interested, contact Mo Crossley the Trust Administrator at the Devizes Canal Centre on 01380 721279.

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hilighted at the June Canal Users’ Forum at the K&A Trust Building on Devizes Wharf.

The meeting heard that boaters were experiencing difficulty because it was claimed that the new housing is installed the wrong way round with the opening too near the canal edge and too near the bridge hole leading to some boats partially obstructing navigation while using it.

Site meeting Paul Griffin (customer operations manager) and Wayne Adams (senior project engineer) from British Waterways met Trust member Adrian Softley on site to discuss the issues and the problems that users experience using the pump out

On the whole it was agreed at the meeting that the pump-out looks better than the original.

However, the design needed some slight modifications to enable easier use.

British Waterways agreed to carry out the following modifications: • Installation of a bracket for housing the water hose to help keep it clear of the waste hose • Installation of replacement door restraints using chains because the existing hooks are not being used • Installation of a timber post to assist in preventing the waste hose entering the water during use • Appropriate signs for the rubbish bins and pump-out locations • Consideration of a new tap

Picture by Bob Naylor

he Trust is still looking for a volunteer Website Editor — although the Trust used a professional website design company for its recent revamp and re-launch — an enthusiast is needed who is prepared to: • Liaise with the Trust’s seven Branches to ensure their content is accurate and up to date • Input editorial changes using Macromedia Contribute 3 programme • Liaise with the Trust Website Steering Group over future developments.

Pewsey pump-out problems roblems with Pewsey Looks better Wharf pump-out were

for the waste hose to prevent accidental opening when putting the waste hose back The elsan, washing pipe and surrounding area will be cleaned and signs for the ticket machine installed.

BW have promised that the work will be completed by the beginning of September 2006.

Dragonboat raises money for Cancer Research UK

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Cotswold Canal death

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Picture by Allan Mercado

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nnette Greenslade (aged 63), a volunteer, died on Wednesday 26th July while doing routine towpath maintenance work on the Stroudwater Canal near Newtown Lock.

Annette and another volunteer were mowing grass on both sides of the canal.

She was using a hand held rotary mower on the offside of the canal and the other volunteer was using a ride-on mower on the towing path side.

About 45 minutes, after work had started, it was suddenly realised that Annette could not be seen mowing.

On investigation she was found floating in the canal with no sign of her mower.

With assistance from a passer-by Annette was recovered from the canal and the emergency services called.

The passer-by attempted resuscitation. When the paramedics arrived, they lso tried resuscitationthen and she she was then taken to Gloucester Hospital where she was pronounced dead.

or the first time, a dragonboat has paddled from Westminster to Bristol along the Thames and the K&A. A team of 27 people took part in this 5-day, 165-mile challenge and they raised over £10,000 for cancer research.

The crew included novices as well as experienced dragonboat racers, including members of the GB national squad.

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No. 176 Autumn 2006

Boat sinks at All Cannings

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oating came to a standstill in June while Geoff and Doreen Selby’s narrowwboat, Inglewood was recovered after it sank while it was moored to the west of All Cannings Bridge.

After unsuccesful attempts to raise the boat by Geeff and other boaters the boat was finally floated again by a team from the BW Devizes depot led by the K&A East End Maintenenace Supervisor, Mick Black.

Picture by Elaine Kirby

River research visit

by Brian Poulton

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rustees from the Thames Rivers Restoration Trust visited 5 sites on the River Kennet in June to see for themselves the problems that the newly-formed organisation will try to tackle.

The TRRT’s highest priority at present is to fight the turbidity in the River Kennet which is affecting the wildlife of this classic chalkstream.

The first visit was to Axford, just east of Marlborough, where Thames Water has been remedying an over-widened stretch of River Kennet, which had suffered from stress in periods of low flow.

Extensive work on the bank, construction of ledges and use of deflectors has improved and narrowed around 400 metres.

A neglected stretch of river close to a picturesque and wellused pedestrian bridge in Marlborough has little sign of vegetation. There is strong local support for improvement works, improving aquatic life.

Work has started on an impoverished and silted stretch of the Kennet with an SSSI nearby at Barton Court, between Hungerford and Newbury. Re-aligning the banks

and re-instating the gravel bed are almost compete, thanks to the EA, local land owners and the Wild Trout Trust. This will improve the ecology.

Copse Lock, to the west of Newbury, is the confluence of the canal and the Kennet.

The problems of silt coming into the river from the canal were reported in Butty 169.

The turbidity is serious for the ecology and fisheries downstream towards Reading.

The TRRT is financially supporting work that is looking for ways to improve matters.

Finally, the trustees visited Fobney Meadows, south of Reading near Junction 11 of the M4. This ambitious potential project between the canal and river holds much interest for Reading Council and the public.

The scheme could lead to a wetland and a major recreational area for angling, bird watching and young people.

Take precautions when you travel

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he Environment Agency is asking all watersports enthusiasts to take precautions when they bring equipment back to UK waters.

A life-threatneing parasite, Gyrodactylus salaris, could devastate stocks of Atlantic salmon if it is brought into the country accidentally by anglers, canoeists, rowers and smallboat owners.

The parasite is widespread in Norway, Sweden, Finland and Denmark, and has been reported in France, Germany, Spain and Portugal.

Boaters, canoeists, anglers

and rowers, returning from continental rivers, could inadvertently import the parasite on damp craft and equipment.

The parasite can survive on boats or damp clothing and equipment for up to six days.

Spread can be prevented in 2 simple ways: thoroughly drying all boats, equipment and clothing for at least 48 hours in sunlight and temperatures above 20oC, or immersing in seawater or a 3% salt solution for a minimum of 10 minutes.

All gear should then be thoroughly rinsed in tap water.

CATLEYS CALOR GAS CENTRE Appliance sales & installations

Bring your boat up to Boat Safety Scheme standards Repairs, servicing and installation Relocating to Beechfield Road, Hopton Trading Estate, Devizes during September Telephone 01380 727266

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No. 176 Autumn 2006

New face at BW

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lex Health has taken over from Terry Kemp as Economic & Social Development Manager at British Waterways South West.

Alex came to BW South West from the West Midlands Business Unit where he had

worked for eight years, most recently as a Project Manager in regeneration.

He is pictured below,right, at a Wild Over Water training session at Caen Hill shortly after he joined the Gloucester team.

Picture by Bob Naylor

Wild Over Water training session

From left to right, John and Elaine Kirby, Peter Jordan, Chris Taylor (BW Education Co-ordinator), Terry Kemp, Mike Hall and Alex Heath took part in a training course in preparation of starting the Wild Over Water project which will visit primary schools along the length of the canal to promote canal safety and the K&A Canal.

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Safety alert for 1000 boats

By Bob Naylor

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avigation Authorities in the Boat Safety Scheme that operates on most of Britain’s inland waterways have written to 1000 boat owners stating that they have decided not to invalidate their Boat Safety Certificates even though they have doubts about their validity.

The certificates were issued by a Boat Safety Examiner who has been permanently excluded from being an authorised examiner.

Dave Gregory of Churchstoke, Powys, was banned from examining earlier this year after a tribunal heard that he failed to ensure that boats met the required standards and he wrongly implied that a hull survey was part of the BSS requirements.

Following his removal from the Boat Safety Scheme a sample of the boats that he had

issued certificates on were reexamined and a significant number of faults were found in all areas covered by the BSS standards.

The navigation authorities are particularly concerned about his checking of the gas systems and battery installations on the boats that were re-examined.

The letter states that they have ‘limited confidence’ in Gregory’s decisions on ventilation, appliance flue checks, engine fuel systems, electrical cable and fusing and appliance installations.

And boaters are reminded that it is a condition of their licence that a boat must comply with the BSS minimum safety requirements at all times that their craft is in the water. If doubt they should get advice from an authorised BSS examiner.

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Butty

No. 176 Autumn 2006

BW update

by Eliza Botham, BW South West Service Manager

I

t now seems like a long time since my family holiday on the Norfolk Broads when it rained all week until the day we were due to go home!

Water shortage By the time you read this, I’m hoping that you will be thinking that we were daft to spend so much time preparing for the probable water shortage!

If not, we could have overnight restrictions on the waterway, or day-long restrictions to let the water levels come back up.

Tom Hitchen, our local water engineer, and the experts in the water resources team have been closely monitoring water levels since the Spring, taking account of ground water levels, water levels in feeder channels and brooks and of course, loss through leakage and evaporation.

BW are asking for canal users to help conserve the water resource by following our ‘7 Steps to Saving Water’ which can be found at www.waterscape.com/savewater

IWA Festival BW South West are using all available resources to keep the water level in pounds up but may need to put in place restrictions in order to keep levels up due to the IWA Festival event at Pangbourne.

It is likely that boating use will increase on the Kennet &

Avon Canal and water restrictions will be more likely if boats are moving in convoy in early September.

BW’s water engineers are liaising with the Environment Agency and are reviewing levels weekly to plan for any necessary restrictions

Water control BW will be deploying staff to control water, particularly in the Wootton Rivers to Newbury areas which are particularly vulnerable.

BW are planning to hire in aeration equipment if deemed necessary to try to prevent fish deaths in low water conditions.

We had a rough ride at the User Forum in June when I raised the subject of water control. Some people feel that we have not done enough to reduce water loss and are alarmed by the loss of water through leaking structures.

In fact, our engineers have been carrying out detailed inspections of weirs, culverts and water courses to try to carry out local works to cut down on the loss of water.

Leaving locks — empty or full?

Another source of irritation to experienced boaters is the obvious leaking of water through lock gates and instructions to leave locks empty after use. The design of the canal, with no by-weirs on

many of the locks, and subsequent fitting of lock gates that don’t allow water to overtop the gates means that we ask people to raise a bottom end paddle on leaving a lock.

This is to ensure that a good seal is made through water pressure on the top gates and also to provide a flow downstream.

Lowering the lock by 300mm is the best solution — it creates a seal without losing a whole lock full of water, but our experience of many boaters shows that a lot of less experienced boaters are very confused by this.

That’s why we asked for help in agreeing the wording of the message on locks where we wanted the water let back out again.

Thanks very much to Andrew Colyer and Steve Rudd who gave us the benefit of their experience. New, consistently worded messages have been placed on all the lock gates where we would like the lock to be emptied after use.

Whilst it isn’t ideal, loss of water through lock gates leaking is not in fact ‘lost’ to the navigation, as it helps to feed water to the next pound down.

Mick Black, the supervisor at the eastern end of the waterway will be ensuring that two of his team will be focusing on water supply in the most critical area between Newbury and Wootton Rivers.

Historical data shows that the critical period is likely to be

September and October.

Visitors to the IWA Festival have been reluctant to provide us with information about their movements, so we are still reliant on information about what happened in the past, when 300 plus boats visited the Kennet & Avon Canal after the Festival.

Water points Many people will also be relieved to hear that the mechanical and electrical team have had a focus on water points to try to address the leaks here.

I’m really hoping that you will see a big improvement here.

And finally, I have to thank Bill Fisher for the benefit of his experience! Bill has got used to my early evening calls to discuss both paddle gearing and water control issues! Hope I’ve got it about right Bill!

Bespoke narrowboats. . .Your inspiration + Our Craftsmen = Complete satisfaction

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No. 176 Autumn 2006

Marketing

New membership gift voucher card

by John Kirby

T

Marketing & Membership Director

The K&A Canal Trust goes Corporate

B

usinesses along the 87mile length of the K&A are being invited to join our new corporate membership scheme.

Depending on their size, companies can choose to join at one of three levels — Gold, Silver or Bronze — each with a range of benefits for the corporate member and their staff.

Companies joining the scheme will enjoy advertising and PR opportunities, custommade corporate events and benefits for their staff. They will also be able to take advantage

of our unique position on the canal to promote their company at open days and events on or by the canal.

Corporate membership of the K&A Canal trust will also show locally that they care for the community and the environment around the canal, giving them press coverage opportunities locally or nationally.

If you think your business or one in your area would be interested please let me know.

Just think — your business could be the first to join — now that is a Big PR opportunity.

he new membership gift voucher was successfully launched at the Reading Water Fest at the end of June, and now to complement the voucher we have commissioned a new presentation card, which is unique to the Trust.

This card comes free with every gift voucher and is designed for the sender to put

his or her own individual message inside this special gift.

Think “K&A gift voucher” when you’re wondering about presents and encourage all your friends to buy the membership gift voucher too - and play your part in attracting new members to the Trust.

T

he demand so far this year from our distributors for Trust leaflets is running at record levels, with the museum leaflet doing particularly well and the trip boats and pumping stations not far behind.

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If the weather stays kind to us the rest of the season should help us with the revenue we need to maintain our goal to Protect, Enhance, Promote the Kennet and Avon Canal for all to enjoy.

Picture by Bob Naylor

Leaflets

John Kirby promoting the canal at Newsbury Waterfest

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No. 176 Autumn 2006

Safety matters

Museum news

by Ben Woodman

by Warren Berry

The Trust Safety Adviser

Museum Curator,

Danger! — children

W

e’ve all seen that sign legal responsibility. on the back of ice There’s nothing new here, cream vans and school the ‘Occupiers Liability Act’ buses, and we know we have to dates back to 1957, and tells be particularly careful when we us that we, the K&A, have a drive past. duty of care to all our visitors.

Why? — because we It says specifically: ‘An know that children are occupier must be unpredictable. prepared for The average wellchildren to be less behaved 7 or 8-yearcareful than adults’. old can become a So warning rampaging monster notices are all very when a few friends well, and we can put come for tea. them up till the cows We like to come home, but as encourage families far as the kiddiewinks to visit our various are concerned, Picture K&A attractions, buttons are for

by Bob Naylor our shops and pressing and anything visitor centres, pumping that looks like a ladder just stations and boats, so we need has to be climbed. to take special care for their So what’s the message safety. here? Just this, you can’t be too We expect parents to take careful when children are care of their own children but around. They’re too precious to that doesn’t excuse us from our be put at risk.

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T

he work associated with museum accreditation grinds on and increasingly museum staff are becoming heavily involved in the associated tasks.

This work however has provided an opportunity for us to consider in detail how we should go about the equally major task of digitalising the museum’s important collection of photographs. The planning side of this project has now been completed and, once funding issues have been sorted, digitalisation work will commence.

Requests for information from the Trust archives continue and, although we cannot help in all cases, many researchers are provided with

at least some of the information they are searching for.

Interestingly, a number of recent requests have been from people who are looking for connections between family names and canal bridges or locks that bear the same names.

Although we can often provide them with general historical data about the lock or bridge in question, finding information to support the connections they are looking for is unfortunately rarely possible.

Recent aquisitions

A

drian Softley has donated one of the most significant finds of recent times to the Trust Museum.

It is a 12-volume set of the 1911 The Royal Commission on Canals and Inland Navigation of the United Kingdom published by HMSO. These books would have been destroyed if Adrian’s brother had not rescued them from a skip when he was moving his business premises in London.

He showed them to Adrian who immediately realised their importance and they decided to give them to the Trust Museum.

The report not only gives great detail on canals in England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland — but also examines European waterways with coloured maps and plans of canal structures.

It details the condition and

financial position of the canals and looks at desirable improvements and extensions.

And the verbatim transcripts of the volumes of ‘Minutes of Evidence’ give a valuable insight into the views and attitudes of a cross section of people who managed, worked on, or funded canals and river navigations, during their periods of greatest decline, when rapid technical and other changes were threatening the whole reason for such structures to exist.

Windlasses Two iron windlasses have been anonymously donated that were found in the canal during the period when restoration work was initially being carried out at Crofton.

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No. 176 Autumn 2006

Picture by Bob Naylor

The early days of the K&A Canal Trust in Bath Michael Horseman recalls that it was possible for everyone to contibute in their own way in the battle to re-open the Kennet & Avon Canal “I cannot claim to have been a member of the mud and wellies brigade of the early days — my involvement with the Bath & Bristol Branch of the Trust didn't start until 1978 — but a few memories of how I got involved and how we operated the branch in those days may be of interest.”

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I

wonder how many of the early Trust members really believed in their hearts that digging out bits of canal and working on derelict locks would lead to the the magnificent water highway we have today.

Some must have had the great vision, but I suspect that for others it was more in the nature of opening up a short stretch of the canal in their particular neck of the woods.

It is to their great credit that the initial ceaseless battle with officialdom, the petition to the Queen, the gradual persuasion of local authorities that there might be a major recreational facility (and money spinner) out there, has led to the Kennet & Avon Canal as we now know it.

Living the dream L

ike many of us, I had always cherished the dream of being at the helm of some magnificent vessel of my own, king of the high seas and at one with the elements, but in reality I knew that the very limited family finances would be hard pressed to fund even a rowing boat!

But a chance discussion in a pub in Wiltshire after a bell ringing session nearby gave me my great chance. Vivienne Rigby and her husband Paul, both sadly no longer with us, were fellow church bellringers and I knew they supported the Kennet & Avon Canal Trust, helping with the boat operation, giving lectures and running a handbell tune ringing team to raise funds for the restoration.

They said that "steerers" were required in Bath and there and then I volunteered to help with the 12-seat open boat ‘Kingfisher’ — a job demanding no qualifications other than enthusiasm.

We did two return trips to Bathampton every weekend afternoon in the summer; customers always volunteering to open and close Folly swing bridge (as it was then) about

The first Trust trip boat in Bath was Kingfisher, an open boat powered by an outboard motor

half way along the trip.

But shorter trips seemed more popular and with the spectacular tunnels and Sydney Gardens still available on the journey, we changed to a more frequent and shorter trip just as far as Folly Bridge.

the monies. At busy times I also had to bring some order to the hoards waiting to board.

When everything was going well it was a very pleasant way to spend an afternoon, perhaps including a wander along to Bathwick Hill for ice creams!

The Bath shop

Those early trip boat experiences

Our small shop near the Top Lock in Bath was the centre of operations and the outboard motor for ‘Kingfisher’ was initially kept there between outings, attached to a pair of antiquated sack trucks.

Staffing was lavish in those days, with a "steerer" (and crew if possible), someone to “man” the shop and a functionary known as the "Supervisor"!

After my promotion to this job I had to arrive early, open the shop, help out as required, check the fuel and deal with all

The Bath flight was not then in use so we used the lock moorings both for storage and embarkation. We later obtained the use of private moorings nearby so the motor could remain attached but this meant tricky work with keys, a very low archway and steep steps to access the canal bank.

When ‘Kingfisher’ needed to come out of the water for a repaint, and more importantly, "fibre-glassing" the many holes

Umpteen orifices partly annoyingly tickled five dogs. O

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No. 176 Autumn 2006

and dents on the hull, a friendly farmer offered the use of a barn at Norton Malreward, outside Bristol. And one Sunday afternoon a tractor and trailer sat at top lock, with a lot of volunteers persuading the boat to come ashore.

‘Kingfisher’ was eventually joined by ‘Dragonfly’, another 12 seater. She was specially built for the Trust with inside accommodation. With a reputation as a beast to steer in the early days things improved after a considerable amount of ballast had been added.

Although the limit of navigation in the early days was

than surprised that we had not lost any along the way.

The occasional birthday party charters were lively occasions, usually with one or more of the parents coming along to keep an eye on things and of course to foot the bill.

Such occasions usually brought forth generous glasses of wine and large slices of birthday cake for the crew.

On one occasion I arranged and skippered a day trip for some of my fellow bellringers.

This involved picking up at Bathampton, bellringing at Claverton church and lunch at the Hop Pole at Limpley Stoke.

was transferred to Pewsey and ‘Dragonfly’ was replaced by ‘Jubilee’ from Pewsey, this being our first "big" boat. She passed Dundas Aqueduct on her delivery cruise on Easter Sunday, 1991. With the advent of ‘Jubilee’, skippers had to be properly qualified and certified.

Talks and lectures About this time, my focus changed and I became more involved with the Branch organisation, not only as Branch Treasurer but also doing the occasional slide lecture.

In the early days a battered old suitcase, stand and screen had to be collected from a central point in Bath and returned afterwards.

However, I soon acquired my own equipment and set of slides, which I have constantly added to, contracting the new with the older historic ones.

Dr John Meadows was Branch Chairman around this time and his wife Meg looked

Some of the lectures I have done come specially to mind.

Taking the stage at the lovely old theatre at Bridport and addressing a full audience of the Dorset branch of the National Trust stands out, as does a packed USA gathering at the Pavilion in Bath.

The Bath Hotel Boat ‘Harlequin’ did occasional short cruises from Bath interspersed with longer times away and I was sometimes invited to join them on the first night both for dinner and to give the guests an idea of the background to the canal and what they might see.

Our canal being 87 miles long, many of us are a bit hazy about what goes on in distant parts and in 1995 the Reading Branch invited me to visit them and talk with special reference to the West End. This was the first time I had preached to the converted, but they were very kind and it was a most enjoyable two-way exercise — an invaluable source of both information and extra slides.

Looking back and facing forward Bath’s second trip boat, Dragonfly

Bathampton, we occasionally ventured towards Claverton, picking our way through copious amounts of duck weed, which, of course, soon caused problems with the engine cooling water intake.

On one such venture into the great world beyond, I recall two swans obligingly proceeding us for a long way, and clearing a channel through the weed.

Eventually they got fed up with being followed and we were soon in trouble!

Then, as now, charters meant real money coming to the operation, and I helped with quite a few of these excursions.

I recall one trip for 24 children from a school in Radstock. The teacher in charge had it all worked out — potential troublemakers in the closed boat and the "trustys" in ‘Kingfisher’.

There was mutiny when we turned around and they all insisted on changing places! As skipper of ‘Kingfisher’, I made a careful head count on arrival back in Bath and was more

Dragonfly was swopped for Pewsey’s boat, Jubilee

The ringers then walked on to try the bells at Freshford, and then made their way through the wood to Avoncliff where ‘Dragonfly’ was waiting.

The Cross Guns provided an excellent tea after which we returned to Bathampton for some more ringing (and ran out of fuel on the final empty leg back to base through Sydney Gardens!).

When it was announced that the Queen would come to Devizes in August 1990 to officially re-open the canal, ‘Dragonfly’ was chosen to lead the flotilla of boats which left Bristol for Devizes a few days before, picking up and entertaining various civic dignitaries along the way.

Around 1990 ‘Kingfisher’

after bookings for lectures.

Sadly, Meg Meadows died suddenly while on a trip with John on their boat near Bradford on Avon, and I then undertook to deal with talks.

I inherited a list of lectures done since April 1977 and up to mid 2006 I have a record of 901 talks given on behalf of the Branch by several different speakers.

We have always found these well received with many people commenting that they only had a hazy notion about the K&A Canal before, though often it was literally on their doorstep.

We also know that many of these talks have resulted in bookings for charters, as well as stimulating individual visits on public trips.

How things have changed, with larger boats, skippers trained to QE2 standards, mobile phones and umpteen regulations, but I believe the spirit of those early pioneers lives on.

The enthusiasm and willingness of present day volunteers to devote that scarce commodity - spare time - to the cause is happily just as alive today. Long may it continue.

“We all owe a great debt of gratitude to the many, mostly nameless, pioneers who put in so much physical effort a long time ago to kick-start the restoration of our great canal.”

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Cotswold Canals news Record breaking Saul Festival Story by Ann Jewell — Pictures by Bob Naylor

R

ecords were broken at this years tenth Saul Canal Festival, with in excess of 12,000 visitors enjoying the spectacular 3-day event.

This is the 5th year of the Festival in this form. It all began 10 years ago with the token nudging of Walk Bridge on the Stoudwater Arm and the announcement, “We want to go to London please”.

Since then, the Festival has gone from strength to strength with the dedicated support of the Cotswold Canals Trust, its numerous green-shirted volunteers, British Waterways, Festival sponsors, local councils and Rotary clubs.

Many, many others have helped to create this year’s record breaking festival — aided by the glorious sunshine later to break records of its own — and competition from the World Cup failing to deter the enthusiasts.

Boats of every type There was a record number of 247 boaters in all shapes and sizes. As Festival Organiser Clive Field said, “It’s a festival for every type of boat afloat: canal, river and coastal”.

Visitors booked 364 individual camp site units and the 147 traders — including those in the new Riverside Green arts and craft area — provided a wide variety of merchandice and food.

Entertainment for all tastes A whole host of sparkling top entertainers delighted a wide range of audiences with 137 performers presenting 55 separate live acts across four venues including, for the first time, stand-up comedy with CanaLaughter on the historic barge ‘Sabrina’.

Resounding music could be heard in the Drum and Monkey Ale House where many also quenched their thirst with the wide range of real ales on offer.

Working boats in the parade on Sunday

Folk on the Water Music aboard the floating Festival Hotel ‘Oliver Cromwell’ was a huge success with its guests and visitors, and the Folk on the Water Music marquee — extended to accommodate a capacity crowd for each of the three evening performances — also hosted the first winner of the BBC

There were 247 boats at this yewar’s event

Pictures by Bob Naylor

Keeping cool

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No. 176 Autumn 2006

Radio Gloucestershire Folk on the Water award winner, Andy Whittle.

Young and old were enthralled with tales of piracy from Tyburn Jig and the children’s dedicated ‘fun’ area was filled with even more laughter and entertainment.

By popular demand, pleasure trips aboard the Cotswold Canal Trust trip boat ‘Perseverance’ continued well into the evenings.

Transport was also provided

by Gloucester Disabled Anglers

Club with mobility scooters and wheelchairs to assist disabled visitors.

The Mother of one disabled young man expressed delight at a wonderful day out, made possible by careful consideration of their needs and help from the volunteers when needed.

Another visitor also enjoyed her first day out since being the victim of an incident, saying she “felt safe with so many to help and ensure a good time was had by all”.

Celebrity support The Festival itself was opened by dedicated boating enthusiasts and well-known actors Timothy West and his wife Prunella Scales. Himself a boat owner, Timothy West expressed his delight at being at the event and helping to support the regeneration and restoration of our heritage.

BBC Radio Gloucestershire broadcast live from the sight on all 3 days, capturing the atmosphere with a wide range of guests and musical artistes.

Comment was made by many of the cleanliness of the site. This year, for the first time, a private contractor was used and all waste from the site was recycled.

enabling the work to start.

The Festival’s success contributing to ‘helping bring the Cotswold Waterways back to life by raising funds in an entertaining and educational way’.

This year it is hoped to raise in excess of £30,000.

Next year’s Festival will be on the 29th, 30th June and 1st July 2007.

For further information and Festival photographs 2006 go to the Festival website www.junctionevents.org.uk

London becons The British Waterways team were there with duck hat making for the kids and information for all

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To Swindon — by boat The IWA’s narrowboat, ‘Jubilee’ visits Swindon during part of Diamond Jubillee national tour. Next time, the trip might be by water.

Wilts & Berks Canal Trust update by Challenor Chute

Busy times at the Wilts & Berks

I

have never known such a hectic period for the Wilts & Berks Canal!

Like the Cotswolds canal we had our formal 2-day visit from the Lottery team in June and all went well, though it had its humourous moments in the midst of a very rigorous assessment. During a crucial question session about our planned management arrangements, I spotted a window cleaner suddenly appearing at the main window!

Never has an operative and his ladder moved so swiftly… not to be seen again that day poor man! But it got me thinking that in spite of all the planning and preparations one has to do for these occasions, you simply cannot rule out the unexpected.

The Lotto Partners know that whatever the outcome –

expected in August – that all their projects have advanced considerably. Some, like the Canal from Swindon to Cricklade and beyond to the Thames and Water park, will have the determination, if not perhaps all the funds, to forge ahead.

Celebrations Our first Flagship project, the Jubilee Thames/Abingdon junction, is now progressing well thanks to many years’ hard work by the Trust and Partners.

It will be quite something to behold a fleet of boats of all sizes making their way from the Thames on to the Wilts & Berks Canal — our first re-connection to the rest of the waterways network. Needless to say, skiff ‘Emily’ will be there.

At Latton Basin on 5th

August we celebrated the hard work of two canal Trusts to restore the canal at this historic junction. We also invited the great grandchildren of Alfred Howse, the last Lock keeper.

For those who enjoy their autumn and wintry walks, do get up there — it is a beautiful, quiet spot and you will see two new fresh signs.

New faces Two new faces have joined us taking lead roles. Fleur de Rhé recently become Partnership and Trust Chairman. Neither need any introduction to our K&A colleagues! They give us great strength to our corporate bow. We can almost consider this a poaching from the K&A! Talking of which, if any K&A members wish to become more pro-active on our canal, do

please contact our Trust administrator, Ann O’Donoghue on 0845 2268567.

Talking to landowners The Melksham saga is on the final straight. Two reports on the new route to the proposed junction at Semington (not quite the historic one but close) are well advanced. The consultants and I have been meeting with affected landowners and all goes well. There is a mood of inevitability now.

We have also been meeting with Cricklade landowners to appraise them of our Lotto project. All seven schemes will require some land to develop their projects. Whatever the Lotto outcome, the canal is keen to press on with this.

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To visit by canal look for our sign at Hilperton Marsh Farm (Bridge 165) our yard is in the farm buildings

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√No. 176 Autumn 2006

The Basingstoke Canal

By Philip Riley

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his waterway connecting the River Wey at Byfleet to Basingstoke was originally conceived as part of an east-west waterways trunk route between Southampton, Salisbury and the Thames with a connection to the Kennet & Avon at Pewsey.

But these plans were too ambitious.The enabling Act of Parliament was passed in 1778, work commenced in 1788 and the 37-mile canal was completed in 1796.

In its early years the canal survived on local trade. Barge loads of timber and agricultural produce were carried to London while cargoes of coal and fertilizers returned.

The navigation was not a profitable investment for the shareholders, but it served local developments including the construction of the London and Southampton Railway in the 1830s, the building of Aldershot army camp and the development of Nately brickworks in 1897.

The original canal company collapsed in 1869 and the canal passed through a succession of owners including the notorious Horatio Bottomley who was prosecuted twice for selling worthless shares in the London and South Western Canal Corporation.

The canal’s survival in the first half of the 20th century was largely due to AJ Harmsworth who made several failed attempts to navigate to Basingstoke in 1914 and the canal became unusable beyond Old Basing.

He bought the canal in 1923 and ran it as part of a successful haulage business until 1947, though the Greywell Tunnel collapsed in 1923, putting an end to retaining the canal line to Basingstoke .

In 1949 the canal was bought at auction by SE Cooke who owned the New Basingstoke Canal Company.

Cook appointed a canal manager, Mrs Joan Marshall, who ran the canal until 1964.

By that time the canal was becoming increasingly derelict.

In 1966, the Surrey and Hampshire Canal Society was formed to campaign for the canal to be restored to full navigable standard.

Negotiations with the canal company were difficult and Hampshire County Council bought its section of the canal in 1973 followed by Surrey County Council purchasing its length in 1976.

Restoration begins The canal society then entered into a partnership with the County Councils to restore the canal.

Volunteers began clearing the towpath and started restoring locks, bridges and weirs as they acquired the necessary skills.

In 1973 the Society bought the K&A Canal Trust’s 70-ton steam-powered dredger, ‘Perseverance’ and started work at Colt Hill, Odiham, dredging the canal westwards as far as the winding hole at King Johns Castle, North Warnborough.

This has remained the present head of navigation as Greywell Tunnel, a few hundred yards west of the winding hole, remains closed.

Dredging then proceeded east from Colt Hill and finished when ‘Perseverance’ reached Pondtail Bridge, Fleet in 1991.

By 1991 the partnership had restored 32 miles and the canal was officially opened in May by HRH the Duke of Kent. Shortly after the re-opening, the two counties, together with riparian local authorities in Hampshire and Surrey, formed the Basingstoke Canal Authority to manage the canal.

The former K&A Canal Trust’s 70-ton steam-powered dredger, ‘Perseverance’

28 miles of the canal have been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

The canal is particularly rich in aquatic plants and it is also an important habitat for damsel and dragonflies.

Greywell Tunnel is a nationally significant bat roost and this may influence plans to restore the tunnel and open up the way to Basingstoke.

Water supplies The Basingstoke Canal has no summit reservoir and it has always drawn its water supplies from springs at the western end and a few local streams.

Given the reduced rainfall in the south east of England over recent years, the Society has actively promoted schemes to enhance water supplies. A back-pumping scheme has been installed at the Woodham locks and a second scheme is nearing completion at St Johns.

Other sources of supply are being actively pursued including the army reservoirs at Bourley and the possibility of a new reservoir at Deepcut at the head of the main flight of 14 locks.

Funding Boating and fishing licences along with other commercial activities provide revenue but the canal depends on local authority support.

Some authorities have cut their contributions in recent years and over the last year the funding issue has become acute.

The Joint Management Committee has conducted a strategic review of funding and management options.

The results of the review are expected this autumn and there will probably be significant changes in the way the canal is administered and financed.

On a more positive note, the canal society has been developing proposals to enhance the attractiveness of the canal as a key component of the south east canal network.

In particular, a scheme to link the Basingstoke Canal to the Kennet & Avon at Theale is in its early stages of preparation.

Let’s hope that one day it will be possible to reach Bristol

SSI status 19

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No. 176 Autumn 2006

Newbury Wharf

I

n this, the second article in our series of lost wharves, Warren Berry starts to look at the history of Newbury Wharf. Further articles on this historically important wharf will appear in future editions of The Butty.

Few visitors to Newbury who stop in the large riverside car park in the town centre realise that below the tarmac and concrete surface on which they stand lies the remains of what was once a busy river wharf complex that in its heyday, formed the focus of a significant and thriving inland port.

The river period During the early years of the 18th Century, increasing EastWest trade had meant that the navigable section of the River Kennet was extended from Reading to Newbury to allow the big Western barges, and later on the slightly smaller Newbury barges, to travel to and from the Thames with their large and diverse cargoes.

This extension work involved the construction of a number of turf sided locks, as well as the widening, dredging, and in some cases canalising, of sections of the River Kennet between Reading and Newbury.

In addition, of course, a wharf, warehouse, stables, and other ancillary facilities had to be created at Newbury to cater for the expected increased river trade.

These new facilities were to be built on the south bank of the River Kennet, on a site that had once contained a municipal workhouse and, prior to that, the ruins of Newbury castle.

The Kennet Navigation Company acquired this area in 1723 and set about excavating the wharf basin and building associated structures and buildings there. The basin itself was large and was possibly developed from an earlier river channel that once formed part of the castle moat. In any event the “bason” as it is described on early maps, was capable when finished

20

of accommodating up to ten Newbury type barges at any one time and, as each of these vessels was 109 ft long with a beam of some 17 ft it can be appreciated just how big the Newbury basin really was.

In addition to the basin and its associated wharf side structures, such as cranes and sheer legs, a range of sixteen two-storey storerooms were built, which could all be rented

Newbury Wharf today. the building of the Kennet & Avon Canal, generating even more waterborne trade.

Activities at Newbury Wharf increased and the complex rapidly became an important centre for the distribution of goods.

1949. John Gould’s pair of narrowboats Colin and Iris were still working from Newbury; this picture was taken from the former wharf side

out to traders. This building — although significantly altered — still exists today, and now forms part of Newbury Museum.

Additional storage areas were later added to the wharf complex by making use of a former cloth-making factory.

Other buildings to the north of the basin, including a large barn, were also utilised for storage and for other related functions such as stabling and blacksmithing. At the western end of the site, overlooking the whole of Newbury Wharf, was the house of the proprietor.

The coming of the canal The late 18th Century canal mania that swept England saw

A travel publication of 1809 mentioned that “The wharf at Newbury became the depot of a very extensive inland carrying trade to London and all parts of the west of England and was provided with a bason or wet dock where ten of the largest barges might load or unload with the greatest facility, which gave quite a maritime and commercial appearance to the place and bespoke the extent of the trade” Another contemporary publication stated, ”The wharf is most conveniently situated for the depot of a very extensive inland carrying trade; there being a spacious bason and wharf room where ten of the largest barges may load or unload; with corn granaries, coal pens, warehouses with cranes, etc. contiguous” The same pamphlet further

espoused the virtues of Newbury Wharf and described the many locations that could be reached from there.

Newbury Wharf had been a busy place when serving the Kennet navigation alone, but in order to cater for the additional canal-based trade, the Kennet & Avon Canal Company, who by this time were the wharf’s new owners, were forced into further expansion at the site. To enable this expansion to take place, the company acquired an adjoining area of land in the parish of Greenham, where they constructed an additional wharf and associated buildings. A new narrow boat basin was also constructed, leading directly into the original basin, and laying to the south and at right angles to it. Although open to debate, it is likely that this smaller basin was constructed so that coal from the Somerset coalfields could more directly be delivered to Newbury gasworks.

Numerous new storage and other wharf side structures were also erected at that time and, it was during this era that the building, which later housed the canal maintenance depot, was constructed on the wharf.

Part of this structure still survives and is now used by the Canal Trust. The stone from which both this building and parts of Greenham wharf were built was once believed to have come from the ruins of Newbury Castle. However it is now thought more likely that the stone was brought up the canal from quarries near Bath

The cargoes During the 18th century, goods carried on the river

timber and stone, forming a high proportion of the total cargoes carried.

Decline and closure

Picture by Bob Naylor

navigation from and to Newbury consisted in the main of coal, corn, and malt. However these bulk items were by no means the only goods involved and many other commodities found there way along the river albeit less frequently and in smaller numbers. Such goods included

various fruit and other foodstuffs, spirits, household goods, lamp oil, salt, starch, tallow, iron, lead, and even tobacco. This pattern continued into the 19th century with coal cargoes generally becoming larger and more frequent and other bulk materials, such as

These two maps show the extent of the basin at two separate points in history, with the later map showing a paritally filled in basin but including a narrower basin for smaller boats

The John Willis 1768 map of the wharf showing the great basin

OS map 1880 showing both Newbury and Greenham wharves, shortened main basin and narrow boat basin at right angles.

Left, Painting of Newbury Wharf as it would have looked in its heyday by Nigel Grundy

The prosperous times were not to last long and in 1852 increasing rail and road competition forced the sale of the Kennet & Avon Canal, including the river navigations, to the Great Western Railway.

Shortly before this transfer of ownership the lease of the land at the western end of the Newbury Wharf basin had expired, becoming the property of St Bartholomews Grammar School. Not long afterwards, the School Governors arranged to have their part of the basin filled in, significantly reducing the wharf basin’s size. By this time, however, trade on the navigation had decreased and smaller barges and narrow boats were being used instead of the big Newbury Barges, so the need for a large basin at Newbury no longer existed.

The tonnage carried on the navigation as a whole continued to decline, falling from 360,610 tons in 1848 to 83,370 tons 50 years later, a reduction of more than 75% over the period.

However, GWR still continued using the wharf at Newbury, and as late as 1911 the company erected a complex of canal buildings in the area.

In 1926 GWR announced that it proposed to close the entire navigation although 2 years later it briefly changed those plans and set about dredging and repairing the canal. By then, however, Newbury Wharf was in decline and in 1931 the Newbury Corporation purchased the whole site and in 1933 filled in the two basins. In subsequent years most of the wharf side buildings at Newbury were demolished to make way for car parks, town centre changes, and other amenity schemes.

Acknowledgments In addition to information held in the Canal Trust archives, this feature draws heavily on a previous Butty article and other publications by Jack Dalby. A publication by the West Berkshire Heritage Service has also been used. The quotations and statistics are all taken from The Kennet and Avon Canal by Ken Clew.

Timeline 1723

Kennet Navigation company bought the site for Newbury wharf.

Records show a total tonnage of 360,610 tons being carried on the navigation c1850 The lease at the western end of Newbury Wharf basin expired and the land became the property of St Bartholomew’s Grammar School c1850 The school governors had their part of the basin filled in 1852 GWR bought the canal including the river navigations 1898 Records show a decline in carried tonnage to 83,370 tons 1911 GWR erected a complex of canal buildings at the Wharf 1926 GWR proposed closure 1928 A temporary reprieve — and dredging and repair work was carried out 1931 Newbury Corporation bought the site 1932 The remaining two

Newbury’s cargoes Eastward Where: London How: 109ft x 17ft barges Load: 120 tons Northward Where: Oxford for Birmingham, Manchester, the Potteries, the Cheshire saltworks and the North How: 95 ft x 13 ft10 ins barges Load: 90 tons How: 66 ft x 6 ft boats Load: 20 tons North-Westward Where: Lechlade and Brimscombe Port for places and ports on the River Severn How: 87 ft x 12 ft 2 ins barges Load: 65 tons and thence up and down the Severn in trows Westward Where: Along the Kennet & Avon Canal for Hungerford, Froxfield, Bedwyn, Bath, Bristol and the West How: 68 ft x 13 ft barges Load: 55 tons.

Southward Where: Almost daily, to Andover, Salisbury, and Southampton How: By land carriage.

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Butty

No. 176 Autumn 2006

Walk Wansdyke and the K&A Canal Pictures by Bob Naylor

This walk takes in two historic defences — the Kennet & Avon Canal that formed part of the UK’s southern defences during the 2nd World War — and Wansdyke, a defensive bank and ditch built in the Dark Ages that runs from Wansdyke, looking West the Avon Valley south of Bristol to Savernake Forest

1

Start at the Bridge Inn at Horton and follow the towpath eastwards towards Pewsey.

forked junction with two ‘no through road’ signs and a post box on a telegraph pole.

5

2

Cross over the canal at the swing bridge and into the village of Bishops Cannings.

After passing the farm on your left and two or three cottages a left turn into Church Lane which will take you to The Church of St Mary the Virgin which has 12th century origins. If you carry on through the churchyard you will come to the Crown Inn.

5

Take the left-hand fork and follow the road, bearing right after 1⁄4 mile and follow it

Wans dyke

6

6

Turn right off the Wansdyke path at the next track which will take you on to a concrete farm track that will take you down to the main road.

To Avebury

4 Bourton The

3

Crown Retrace your steps back Bishops Cannings along Church Lane.

Turn left at the end and follow 2 the road through the village, passing the school on your right.

To

3

Harepath Farm

t & Avon Canal Kenne Th e

Horton

7

7

To Pewsey

Devizes

4

Turn right at the school and follow the road out of the village, passing several turnings to the right until you meet a

The Bridge Inn

1

Length: 6 miles

When you reach the main road, turn right and join the towpath at the canal bridge in 200 yards. Follow the towpath around what is know as the Horton Loop to reach the Bridge Inn and — no doubt — some welcome refreshments.

Strong footwear is recommended There is a steady incline up to Wansdyke OS map: LANDRANGER 173

Bishops Cannings swing bridge

The Church of St Mary the Virgin, Bishops Cannings

The Bridge Inn

22

upwards until it crosses the Wansdyke with styles either side of the lane.Turn right and follow the Wansdyke path, taking in the views over the Kennet valley and look out for evidence of the ancient field systems known as Strip Lynchets. Continue past the first track descending from the ridge.

The Crown

Join The Kennet & Avon Canal Trust now to help Protect, Enhance and Promote the waterway and you will get:

Membership Fees – please tick one box Annual fees are for one year from the month of joining Pay by standing order and claim your FREE leather card wallet

the

Butty posted to you free

q Senior Citizen Single/£100 q Adult Family/£250 q Senior Citizen Family/£125 q Life Membership Fees

Adult Single/£15

Adult Single/£200

Senior Citizen Single/£10 Adult Family/£17 Senior Citizen Family/£12 Junior (14–18)/£7

The K&A Canal Trust magazine

q q q q q

Annual Membership Fees

Corporate membership – please phone 01380 721279 for information Branch Membership – please tick one box

q q Newbury Devizes Bath & Bristol q I/we would be interested in helping with branch activities q Central

Reading

q q q

Hungerford Crofton

q q q

West Wilts Claverton

Your details – please complete all sections I/we wish to join the Trust and enclose: A completed Standing Order form A completed Gift Aid Declaration form A cheque (payable to The Kennet & Avon Canal Trust) I would like a FREE leather card wallet

q q q q

(standing order applicants only after receipt of first payment)

Name(s) of applicant(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

FREE entry to: Claverton Pumping Station Devizes Canal Museum Crofton Beam Engines

............................................. .............................................

Address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ............................................. .............................................

Email . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Standing Order Name of Member’s Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Address of Member’s Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .............................................

A GEOprojects canal map of the Kennet & Avon Canal (and including the River Avon and Bristol Docks)

Please pay to Lloyds Bank plc, Devizes Wilts SN10 1JD (sort code 30-92-63) credit A/C No. 0441822 The Kennet & Avon Canal Trust the sum of £. . . . . . . On (date). . . . . . . . . .and the same sum on the same date each YEAR until further notice.

Signed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Account No. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Join at any of the Trust shops or the attractions listed — or phone: 01380 721279

.............................................

To Bank: When making payments please quote: . . . . . . . . . . .

Gift Aid Declaration Name of Charity: The Kennet & Avon Canal Trust Details of Donor Title: . . . . . . . . .Full Name: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Address: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ............................................. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Postcode: . . . . . . . . . . .

I want the charity to treat all subscriptions/donations I make from the date of this declaration until I notify you otherwise as Gift Aid Donations.

If you pay by standing order you will also get a leather K&A wallet to keep your membership card in

Signature: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Date: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

You must pay an amount of Tax at least equal to the tax that the charity reclaims on Please post or fax this form to: The Membership Secretary, The Kennet & Avon Canal Trust, FREEPOST, Canal Centre, Couch Lane, Devizes, Wiltshire, SN10 1BR. Fax: 01380 727870

the

Butty The page for younger canal users

No. 176 Autumn 2006

Arts on the towpath - the public show

Whats on

S

choolchildren from West Berkshire brought art to the lockside at Newbury lock in early July in a culmination of their arts on the towpath project.

The project, organised by Open Studios 2006, started with an inspiration day in March to explore the sensations of rise and fall.

After a series of workshops with Shakespearean actor Will Wollen, sculptor Julieann Worrall Hood and textile artis Sarah Moorcraft the schoolchildren and parents or grandparents made sculptures and paintings and put on canal-side show of art, music and theatre.

There were forty performers in this inter-generational prooject and Will Wollen said how great he found it to be working with children and their parents on the same project.

The lowpath was vibrant and alive with willow sculptures,

Caen Hill Café Puppet shows Wednesday 25th October.

10.30 am The Three Pigs 11.45 am Red Riding Hood 1.00 pm Down with Dracula 2.30 pm The Three Pigs 3.45 pm Red Riding Hood

what looked like tissuepaper boats and silk paintings that were used as beautiful banners.

And they all played their part in a theaetrical show based on the theme 'Rise and Fall, drawing on the works of Shakespeare, as well as inspiration from the canal.

A trumpeter atop of St Nicolas Church tower heralded the audience and there was a surprise trip on the ‘Rose of Hungerford’. It was a spectacle enjoyed by participants, turors and the public alike.

The project was funded by the West Berkshire Community Education Fund, Newbury Building Society and The Greenham Community Trust.

Bradford on Avon Santa trips Aboard ‘Barbara McLellen’ 11.30am and 2pm departures from Wharf Cottage, Bradford on Avon 9th, 10th, 16th, 17th, 20th and 21st December One hour trip includes mulled wine and a mince pie for adults and orange juice, sweets and an individually selected present from Santa for the children.

Booking essential. Previous years have been a sell-out, so book early.

Phone 01225 775326 £7.50 per person

Hungerford Santa Cruises 9th, 10th, 16th, 17th, 23rd and 24th December From Hungerford Wharf on the ‘Rose of Hungerford’ A present from Santa for the children and a drink and mince pie for the adults All tickets £6.00 Booking only.

Phone 01488 683389

The Heron

Devizes Santa Trips

Picture by Elaine Kirby

The programme will be finalised in September. Phone 01380 729489 for details.

Custom made & fitted Cratch Covers Boat Covers 30 years experience

T

he heron is one of nature’s most accomplished fishermen.

The grey heron is known for its motionless stance at the edge of the water. Herons can stand still for several minutes waiting for a fish to come into range — or they will stalk the shallows searching for fish. This one pictured by Elaine Kirby at the canoe launching point on Devizes Wharf did so with success.

24

Telephone: Bristol (0117) 9353233 Mobile: 07792 108854

the

Butty

No. 176 Autumn 2006

Help us fight the red peril

By Sharon Charity

Picture by David Midgley

W

iltshire Wildlife Trust is calling on canal users to be on the lookout for alien plant invaders – such as the water fern (latin name Azolla filiculoides), the mosquito fern.

Azolla water fern is a perfect example of a plant in the wrong place. It’s a plant with talent – its nitrogen-fixing abilities have allowed it to contribute to an agricultural revolution in parts of Southeast Asia.

Flooded rice paddies are inoculated with Azolla water fern in spring, which covers the water rapidly, nourishing the rice plants with nitrogen as the paddy dries out and the Azolla water fern plants die.

Mosquito fern It is also known as the ‘mosquito fern’ because the dense mats of an Azolla infestation are said to be too

thick for a mosquito to penetrate and lay eggs.

In the UK, however, Azolla water fern is a menace on the waterways – it can cover a body of water so thickly that no water is exposed, and double its mass in 3 days if conditions are right.

Potential death trap One of the worst aspects of this is that an Azolla blanket of water fern on still water can look like solid ground — a potential death trap for children.

In bright sunlight it produces

large amounts of anthocyanins, creating an intense red colour and causing the water surface to appear to be covered with a red carpet.

It is ideally suited to the still waters of canals, and serious infestations have occurred in many parts of the country.

Invasive alien For Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, Azolla water fern is one of a number of invasive alien plants whose aggressive growth is a menace to the native wildlife of our waterways.

Amanda Miller, Biodiversity Manager, explains, “Azolla water fern infestations can really damage the ecology of a canal; they block out light and cause oxygen levels to plummet, making life extremely difficult for fish as well as native water plants.”

“Azolla water fern poses a real risk to children, pets and livestock. It covers the water so thickly that it looks like dry land.

Report sightings to BW Anyone who cares about water safety should report any sightings of this plant to British Waterways as soon as possible.”

“We’d also like to remind people to stick to native plants for their garden ponds. Azolla Water fern is one of several invasive alien plants that spread into the wild from garden ponds.

If you see non-native pond plants on sale at a garden centre, please ask the management not to sell them in future,” adds Amanda.

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Active independent owners club at www.wilderness.org.uk

25

the

Butty

No. 176 Autumn 2006

Everything’s coming up roses — and castles — for canal artist Jane Clements Pictures by Bob Naylor

W

hen Jane and her husband Steve bought a narrowboat she became interested in all aspects of boating — including the canalware on other people’s boats and she decided to try her hand at ‘Roses and Castles’ — so she bought a few basic materials and made a start.

A few months later, and totally hooked on her new hobby, she attended a weekend course being held in Newbury.

By good fortune the teacher was Phil Speight, a name very well known in the canal world as a master painter.

Shortly afterwards she went to Stourbridge, where Phil has his painting dock, and spent a week improving her skills and another master painter, Tony Lewery, gave a talk about the origins of canal art and its place in the history of working boats and their owners.

Learning

about the people and their lifestyles, and the importance that their few, precious possessions and cramped cabins had, gave a new dimension to the importance of preserving a traditional part of canal life.

She joined the waterways Craft Guild and soon became a Journeyman painter.

She now paints much of the canalware you will find in the K&A shops and occasionally she runs one or two day courses in the K&A building in Devizes as well as giving talks and demonstrations to interested groups.

“Canal painting has given me a most interesting and enjoyable pastime

Andrew Sawyer, Chairman of Hungerford Branch who operate the Trust trip boat, ‘The Rose of Hungerford’ from Hungerford Wharf pictured with new panels painted by Jane.

26

and has enabled me to meet some wonderful people.” says Jane “I am very glad to have discovered a unique ‘folk art’ and hope to play a small part in preserving the traditional techniques and designs.”

Jane’s work has travelled the world. Earlier in the year one visitor arrived in the Devizes

K&A shop and asked for Jane – she had come especially to meet her, having found her details on the craft guild website.

You can contact Jane on 01793 615898 or at spengi@ntlworld.com

The panels inside the doors on the ‘Rose of Hungerford’ had become tired and dull and the new panels painted by Jane will be on the boat for the new season’s trips.

the

Butty

No. 176 Autumn 2006

Claverton restoration continues Pictures by Maurice Pullin

D

uring three very cold days in March the Claverton Pumping Station team fitted a steel pre-fabricated dam across the narrowest part of the mill stream so that one of the sluices could be repaired.

Receiving some helpful advice from the past master, the original restoration manager Derrick Dudden.

The pumping station gets its power from a large waterwheel fed with water from the River Avon Weir that flows along a man-made cut to the mill pond next to the Pumping Station.

An adjustable weir — almost as wide as the waterwheel — starts, stops and controls the speed of the water wheel.

When it is raised to its full height, water cannot pass onto the wheel.

Lowering the weir

allows water to pass onto the wheel causing rotation.

The weir is built in two sections each 12 feet long, curved to reflect the radius of the water wheel.

The copper sheet covering one half of the wheel came loose exposing a very rotten timber structure normally under water.

It was decided that one half of the weir or sluice had to be completely rebuilt before the pump could be run again.

Sawing the sluice timbers to length.

The Claverton Pumping Station team fitted a dam to allow access to the waterwheel — now the repair work begins. . .

Claverton Chairman, Pete Dunn, keeps the team well supplied with tea on the job rather than letting them sit down and stop work.

Drilling the timbers to fit the 48 inch long curved bolts.

Second sluice repair

T Raising the sluice for the final dry fitting out.

was the manager of the original restoration in the 1970s has taken a keen interest in the work and he has identified some improvements and modifications that can be made that will improve the working of the waterwheel.

The decision to carry on with the second sluice means that the pumping station will not be run at all this year — but next year we can look forward to a full pumping programme.

Picture by Bob Naylor

Lifting the final timber into place.

he state of decay discovered in the first half of the sluice gave concern for the state of the other half and it was decided that this would have to be rebuilt as well.

The unusually low rainfall this year means that the river level is particularly low making conditions ideal for carrying on the work.

The second sluice will be repaired this Autumn and not left until next year.

Derrick Dudden who

27

the

Butty

No. 176 Autumn 2006

Reading Water Fest Pictures by Elaine Kirby

W

ater Fest rightfully deserves its place as one of Reading’s best-loved events, winding its way through the Abbey Ruins and along Chestnut Walk and Riverside Walk.

This year’s visitors were entertained with traditional music and dance in the Abbey Ruins and were able to enjoy entertainment all day long throughout the site, whilst browsing along the ‘craft

avenue’ to pick up the odd hand-made momento.

On the river, the waterways activities included a duck race, boat parades, canoeing demonstrations, a boat tug-ofwar – and just looking at boats.

More boats than ever took part in WaterFest this year

The tug-of-war was a gripping and exciting spectacle

Rob and Rita Tillotson on Best Turned Out Boat , ‘Phantom’, are congratulated by Reading Mayor, Bet Tickner and Brian Poulton

Once again the Right Royal Revels dress up for Water Fest.

28

Meadow arrives and wins over the judges

Dick Bradford’s steam launch on a tour of inspection

the

Butty BRANCH REPORTS

No. 176 Autumn 2006

Reading Mike Wyatt 0118 9427708

W

ater Fest has come and gone. A very pleasurable sunny Saturday with even more boats than last year.

So many in fact that we ran out of mooring space and had to turn a couple away.

One unusual entry this year which won an extra prize in the boat competition was the Tug ‘James Loader’ towing butty ‘Betelgeuse’ displaying an entry called ‘Meadow Sweet’ on the way to an art exhibition. A very apt name for the very pretty field of grass and wild flowers covering ‘Betelgeuse’s hold.

‘Phantom’ won the Best Turned out Boat shield, and ‘Sonoma’ the Tug-of-War. Thanks to all the members who helped this year at our 5 stands: Trust Information, Branch Sales, Branch Cakes, 50-year Commemoration, and of course the Duck Race.

Special thanks go to Terry Kemp who was cooped up all day in the commentary van on the other side of the cut — and to Dick Bradford who not only carried the Mayor and Trust Chairman round the navigation loop in his steam launch, but took many other visitors afterwards.

His single-handed effort raised £138 in donations for the Trust, helping us to raise £1000 in all.

Winter Meetings Owing to unforeseen problems, we will NOT be changing our winter meeting location or day.

The Newbury Waterfest team

Newbury Julie Dean 01962 883939

A

new face reporting from Newbury! Let me introduce myself.

I joined the committee in April, and have taken over the role of Butty correspondent from Graham Smith who will concentrate on being our Branch Secretary.

Many thanks, Graham, for doing a great job in the role until now.

As I write this I am nearing the end of 6 weeks away exploring waterways other than the Kennet & Avon, but am looking forward to being back just in time for the Waterways Festival.

Waterways Festival The main focus of Newbury Branch’s effort this quarter is organising the Waterways Festival, which will have already taken place by the time you

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GREENHAM LOCK COTTAGE, AMPERE ROAD, NEWBURY RG14 5SN

www.aamarine.co.uk

read this.

Many thanks to all who took part — especially those who worked hard on the day to make it a success.

The Festival is very much about promoting our canal and gives people, who have perhaps not had an opportunity before, the chance to learn about this wonderful asset flowing through their town.

Volunteers We were very happy to report in the previous Butty that the campaign to recruit volunteers was a success; and we now have a good team of volunteers to enable us to keep the Stone Building open.

Our volunteers are very important to us and we could not function without them.

No one values their services more than our shop manager, Tracy Perryman and on 1st June she organised a cruise on ‘Rose of Hungerford’ as a thank you to all her volunteers.

A most enjoyable afternoon that also gave the volunteers a chance to meet up and socialise together.

The new season of monthly

Hungerford Richard Snook 01635 253446

H

igh summer is here and we have had the hottest July day in living memory.

That was the day that we finished the haymaking, I think the temperature in the top of the barn must have been well over 125 degrees, in old money, on that day.

At least I don’t need to mow the lawn for a while.

The downside of this of course is the amount of water, or lack of it, in the canal.

We all need to think about ways to conserve water, but unless we have some serious rain pretty soon we could be in trouble.

Heel test We passed our heel test in May. Owing to the uncertainty of having enough volunteers of the correct weight and general

The Tutti Pole

by the South side of Hungerford Bridge

Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of our Tea Room/Restaurant and Patio Area seating up to 50

All boat maintenance services Boat Safety Examinations Anywhere on the K&A and Thames

Picture by Bob Naylor

evening talks, which are held on the last Wednesday of every month at 7.45 from September to April, will soon be commencing at the Stone Building.

Make a note in your diary to come along on Wednesday 27th September to join us for the first in our new programme, ’25 years of the Newbury Working Party Group’ by Bill Nicholson.

Bill is a founder-member of NWPG which has carried out much valuable restoration work on various canals since it was formed in 1981.

Everyone is welcome and we hope to see you there!

Morning Coffee • Luncheon • Afternoon Tea Roast Sunday Lunch • Home made fare a speciality Monday – Friday 9am – 5.30pm • Saturday & Sunday 9am – 6pm The Tutti Pole, 3 High Street, Hungerford RG17 0DN Telephone: 01488 682515 29

the

Butty BRANCH REPORTS shape, we arranged to have the test done at Kintbury.

This enabled us to have 150 bags of sand delivered to the canal side and hence it was not a mammoth task to put the required amount aboard and move them around as required.

The sand was all taken away the following day.

Our thanks to the landlord of the Dundas Arms for allowing us to use his car park for this operation.

The new door panels of the ‘Rose’ have been expertly painted and look splendid. If you haven’t seen them on the boat, you can get a flavour of the artwork in the article about our painter Jane Clements on page 26.

Not many shopping days left before Santa arrives.

Tempus fugit (that’s the first time that I’ve ever used the Latin that was drummed into me over 50 years ago) and I have taken the first Santa charter for the 2006 Advent season.

This leads me nicely into the usual plea for volunteer Santas.

We look like having a busy season and we really do need a couple more Santas to ease the

No. 176 Autumn 2006

burden at this important time.

If you can help us out, please call me on 01488 683389.

Trips and charters The numbers of passengers on the public trips are slightly down on last year, probably due to the cold wet May and the world cup in June and July.

Charter trip numbers are improving year on year and I hope to be able to report our best ever numbers in the next Butty.

Our hearty thanks go to all our volunteers, both Captains and crews, without whom this would not be possible.

Winter works Crofton Ray Knowles 01672 851639

W

e have now completed all the outstanding Health & Safety work except for the fire alarm system, which is being specified as I write.

Crofton Beam Engines Amazing industrial archaeology in a rural setting 2006 Open daily 10.30am — 5.00pm from April 14th to October 1st

New AD

May 27th-28th-29th 24th-25th

Jul

29th-30th

Aug

26th -27th-28th

Sept 30th-Oct 1st

1812 Boulton & Watt and 1846 Harvey beam engines regularly steamed from hand stoked, coal fired Lancashire Boiler

A fascinating place to visit for families,or anyone interested in the history of the Kennet & Avon Canal, or our industrial past.

Also a delightful place to stop for an ice cream or a cup of tea.

Why not time your visit to see it in steam

Crofton Pumping Station, Crofton, Marlborough, Wilts., SN8 3DW. Tel: 01672 870300

www.croftonbeamengines.org 30

We may be able to start before 1st October, but most, if not all, the work will be done during the closed season this coming winter along with the 10-year boiler test, the work for which is now fully scheduled.

The boiler house window will need to be repaired this winter, preferably before Christmas as most of the work will be done from the outside.

The new railings around the ‘header pond’ are coming along now that K2 has his own area of the black shed in which to weld.

The spare boiler has received its summer coat of Tarp as part of preserving it against the failure of the existing boiler, currently estimated to be in 30 year’s time.

I wonder if we shall have any volunteers to install it then!

Toad in the coal hole

In Steam

Jun

There are some interesting features that need to be considered: when we are in steam we want to have the smoke and rate of heat-rise detectors switched off, but the break glass alarm facilities still working.

Then, during the evening when we have all gone and the building is closed up, it starts heating up again with the residual heat from the boiler.

This could set off the heatrise detectors and possibly some smoke detectors, but there will not be a real fire.

The power for this system depends on the entire building being rewired for which the Statement of Requirements will have been completed by the time that you read this.

John Arthurs sent me a little note about an incident that occurred when he was learning the finer points of firing the boiler from Matthew Butcher.

One of the watching visitors exclaimed “That piece of coal moved!” We looked to where he was pointing just in time to see the lump of coal hop up onto the top of the bricks of the bunker.

It was a frog covered in coal dust. Matthew picked him (or her) up and took him outside.

When he returned he said

that as he did not know if it was a frog or a toad he put him in the grass but not the leat (feeder channel).

It’s a pity that we didn’t have some soap and a towel for him, goodness knows what his Mummy will say when he comes home covered in coal dust!

The frog/toad had obviously been wintering in the coal heap and had survived being shovelled from the heap into a barrow, wheeled into the boiler house and tipped out onto the coal bunker in front of the boiler.

Competition affects numbers Visitor numbers are improving now that the major ‘sporting‘ events are over.

Our worst day was a recent Saturday when we had just 4 visitors due to the competition from World Cup football, Burbage show, Hullavington tractor competition and an event at Wilcot all on the same day.

Wimbledon didn’t have the same effect this year.

Rain stops recruitment fair There has been no response to my pleas for more volunteers so on 22nd July we took a small tent at the Marlborough Community Area Summer Fair in the grounds of Marlborough College with the aim of trying to get some more volunteers that way.

There were other groups with the same intention, so my thinking can’t have been too far out.

John Hazell and Bob Johnson supported me and we were all set up and ready well before the official opening time of noon.

Visitors started coming in and we had handed out a few leaflets by 12.30 when the sky darkened and there was torrential rain with thunder and lightning right overhead.

After about half an hour the rain eased off to a heavy downpour and any visitors were in the bar tent or sheltering in exhibitors tents.

The band had to give up and the hog roast was ruined along with some of the equipment.

the

Butty BRANCH REPORTS By 2.30 with no real end to the rain in sight, some of the other exhibitors had already gone and others were packing up so we joined them.

It was a great shame as the organisers, Marlborough Area Development Trust, had done a really good job even to the extent of sending round a man with a jug of cold water and plastic cups several times during the set-up time when it was very hot and humid. It will certainly be worth a try next year but the hard part may be persuading John and Bob of that! We will hope for better weather.

Devizes Roger Hollands 01249 6509521

A

s you may have read in the previous issue of The Butty, the Trust is in the throes of agreeing with Kennet District Council new terms for us to continue using the Wharf building as our headquarters.

The building has started to look pretty tired and we need to

No. 176 Autumn 2006

do a fair bit of work to bring it up to the standard it deserves.

In addition to upgrading facilities in line with current Health & Safety regulations, there will be a host of smaller tasks to be carried out. Staff in the office have produced a list of work that needs to be carried out. All we need now is some volunteers!

It could be you! If you have some basic DIY skills and you can spare a few hours a week, then please contact Roger or Alice.

Do you want to crew a boat?

A letter has been sent to all Devizes members asking for potential crew in the event that the Trust takes over the trip boat currently based at Devizes Wharf. Please get in touch as soon as possible if you’re interested in volunteering on the boat.

As this goes to press, we are in the summer hiatus, with many of our members on the water.

By the time you read this, our participation in Newbury

Waterfest will be but a distant memory and we will be gearing ourselves up for another Autumn/Winter of social activities.

We kick off with a talk on the Dorset & Somerset Canal on Saturday 30th September, 7.30pm at the Wharf - hope to see you there!

If you are interested in receiving regular emailed updates to our events, please contact Alice on alicebf2@aol.com, or alternatively you can see details on the Trust’s website.

West Wilts John Maciver 01225 812225

B

usiness is flourishing at the Bradford on Avon end of the Cut — the Tea Room has been particularly busy, with a constant stream of customers enjoying the fare on offer and the overall ambience; also, many passengers have rediscovered ‘Barbara McLellan’ after last year’s lay-off.

Robin Parry and his team of volunteers have completed a

few little tweaks to the boat to get her into tip-top condition.

Crewing the boat continues to be a challenge, especially when we have either two Charter Trips on one day or, a Charter on the same day as Public Trips.

Still, we have managed. . . just.

Mind you, the Crew Managers — Tony Neal at the start of the season and Dave Jupp latterly — now have a little less hair than they did at the start.

Glowing feedback However, it is very satisfying when we receive glowing feedback from passengers saying that they had a most enjoyable and memorable trip.

Bookings for our Special Trips, such as Cream Tea, Bath Trips and Autumn Tints are proving to be sell-outs; indeed, believe it or not, bookings for our Santa Trips started to come in shortly after Easter!

Our Santa Trips are the best ‘Santa-experience’ in this region, so, get in now and avoid disappointment!

Another very positive aspect

The Kennet & Avon Canal Trust Public Trip Boats • 3 boats • 3 locations • public trips • special charters •

‘Rose of Hungerford’ Operating from just off the High Street in Hungerford With a seating capacity of 50, ‘Rose’ is a comfortable well-equipped widebeam boat.

Public trips: • Every Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holiday from Easter until October – 2.30pm: 2.5 hours • Every Wednesday from June until September – 2.30pm: 2.5 hours • Every Wednesday during July and August – 11.30am: 1.5 hours • Every Sunday during August – 11.30am: 1.5 hours • Special Santa Trips at Christmas Charter trips available for all your special occasions Wheelchair/disabled access Booking Manager: 01488 683389

‘Protect Enhance Promote’

‘Barbara McLellan’

‘Jubilee’

Operating from Bradford on Avon Wharf Cottage The Barbara McLellan is a 65-ft purpose-built wide-beam boat capable of seating 51 passengers.

Public trips: • From May to September–11.30am: I hour trip to Meadows Bridge, Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holidays • From June to mid-September – 4.30pm: I hour trip to Widbrook, Saturday and Sunday • Special trips, including cream teas, Bath, Autumn Tints, Christmas Santa Trips

Operating from Brassknocker Basin, opposite Viaduct Inn, Limpley Stoke, A36 East of Bath ‘Jubilee’ is a converted traditional narrowboat with a 30-seat capacity.

Brassknocker Wharf has ample car parking.

Charter trips: for 1 to 5 hours or a whole day.

Wheelchair/disabled access Wharf shop and tea-room Boat tickets, gifts, books and refreshments Booking Manager: 01225 775326

Public trips: • Sundays and Bank Holidays from Easter until October 12.00 – 2.00pm Cruise to Claverton and return 2.30pm – 5.45pm Cruise to Avoncliff stopping for 30 minutes and return • From June to September inclusive Tuesdays 2.30pm – 5.45pm Avoncliff and return Thursdays 2.30pm – 5.45pm Bathampton and return Charter trips Booking Manager: 01749 850169

All boats are well equipped to provide a range of refreshments and they have licensed bars.

They also have a public address system or will accept your own sound system.

General enquiries 01380 721279

real at! a y o j n E e family tr 31

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Butty BRANCH REPORTS

No. 176 Autumn 2006

effort in putting this training package together. We do of course supplement that training with ‘on-the-job’ training. First Aid training, superbly delivered

by Helen Mangune, was also organised; this training proved to be very beneficial.

Picture by Bob Naylor

Harry cox who won prizes in the Bradford on Avon in Bloom competition for the gardens at the Trust tearooms on the Wharf for the second year running.

is that we have had a steady trickle of new volunteers for both the Boat and the Tea Room. They have each come along with their own skills and we warmly welcome them to ‘our club’. Indeed, some volunteers have discovered some latent talents that they have since put to good use.

Geoff Olver, John Shirley and Peter Hawes have run a number of training sessions for the boat’s new volunteers.

Thank you all for the time and

Mo’s menus Mo Bennie has continued to introduce improvements and variety to the service delivered in the Tea Room. She, and her band of enthusiastic and friendly volunteers present a very good image for both the Branch and the Trust, and are to be congratulated on their performance. We have received so many laudatory comments from our customers. Well done everyone.

Harry’s prize winning garden Our garden has once again achieved recognition in the ‘Bradford in Bloom’ competition.

Harry Fox won a 1st and a 3rd prize.

Harry has done a marvellous job in tending the garden

throughout the year; yes, he was there, with his fork, throughout the winter months!

Unfortunately, the ‘safety fence’ that we had to erect is a bit of an eye-sore, but perhaps it can be disguised over time.

Thank you also to those who have helped with grass-cutting and the general upkeep.

Wharf Day We are looking forward to our Wharf Day on Sat 26th August; there is every indication that it will be a good day out.

‘Barbara McLellan’ will be running free trips throughout the day.

That same week, Heather Skull, BBC Radio Wiltshire, will be ‘walking’ the K&A Canal between Dundas and Devizes and will be interviewing Trust members and canal users enroute.

Finally, come along and join our happy band of volunteers.

Simply call in at the Tea Room or take a trip on the Boat to ‘check us out’, without any obligation. No previous experience is needed. You will be made most welcome and I look forward to meeting you.

Claverton Pete Dunn 01761 432811

W

ork goes on to replace the curved water wheel control sluices.

This could be called a rerestoration, but as the sluice is constructed largely of timber that is immersed in water it will not last forever.

It is one of the parts, along with things like the wooden pit wheel teeth and wheel paddle boards, that will have been replaced at intervals through the history of the Pump House.

Skilled people’s footsteps We are following in the footsteps of some very skilled people – staff of the Kennet & Avon Canal Company and subsequently employees of the Great Western Railway played their part.

Later, students from Bath University worked on the sluice and, in the 1970s it was the

Boat builders and repairers Bespoke built narrow and wide beam boats

Holiday hire 2-12 berth Full weeks and short breaks 2 fully equipped and built for disabled use

Full mechanical and electrical services Break down service Agents for Shire and Beta engines Mastervolt energy shop 3M thinsulate insulation Webasto heaters

Quality work by quality craftsman Reading Marine Company Ltd Aldermaston Wharf, Padworth, Reading RG7 4JS 0118 9713666

32

David Owen & Co Chartered Accountants and Registered Auditors 17 Market Place Devizes Wiltshire 01380 722211

126 High Street Marlborough Wiltshire 01672 512163

Auditors to The Kennet & Avon Canal Trust

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Butty BRANCH REPORTS

No. 176 Autumn 2006

turn of the Kennet & Avon Canal Trust’s restoration team.

It is our privilege to be the next people who contribute to passing on this unique piece of engineering heritage to the next generation.

promoting the Canal, The Pump House and the Trust please get in contact with me through the Trust Office at Devizes (see contact details on page 3).

Claverton key

Bath & Bristol

That brings me to mention the 1970s restoration manager Derrick Dudden who has been very interested in our latest repairs.

Derrick has paid us quiet a few visits and shared his own experiences of the sluice with us.

It was during one of these visits that mention was made of an old-fashioned door key he had reproduced for the original front door lock of Claverton, which had gone missing.

Derrick immediately offered to make another key for the lock and two weeks later he reappeared with a splendid reproduction of the key that works perfectly.

The work continues The season is wearing on and we still have not finished the first sluice rebuild.

I recently made the decision that it will be just as well to carry on with the work to also rebuild the second sluice and this means that we will not run at all this year but will be fully operational for 2007.

One reason for this decision is that the river is very low and this makes work easier.

There have been suggestions that the dry spell will break this coming winter and it will be very wet, which would delay the start of the

Mike Davis 01225 448576

N

ow that the Summer Season is in full swing, our Members are busy doing their various things on the Canal.

Our Trip Boat “Jubilee”, back on the water after a winter rehulling and the fitting of a new engine, is very busy.

Derrick Dudden with the new key he has made for the front door

next phase of sluice repairs next spring.

More to see at Claverton As to be expected our visitor numbers are down this season but this has been made up somewhat by some late bookings of out-of-hours special groups.

A new development here has been to extend the Pump House tour to include a guided tour of Dundas Wharf and Aqueduct.

These extras need some more refinement to give some added value, but are looking very promising.

Of course more tour guides would be very welcome. It would be very nice if we could build a dedicated team to take these tours.

So if anyone is interested in

DAY BOATING

Charters up Charters are up on last year, meaning that we should achieve more than 100, and public trips have picked up too, after a slow start to the season.

The main problem now is availability of skippers and crews to take the bookings.

We need to train several skippers each year, to replace

any falling away and also to cope with rising demand; we have appealed successfully in these pages before for volunteers to come forward, and now do so again.

Any age, sex, shape or size; no previous experience necessary; we will train you and you will have a wonderful time, in a very happy ambience.

The Claverton Pumping Station team, who report separately, are doing an impressive job replacing the old sluice bottoms.

This is a highly technical and difficult job, which has to be done about every 30 years; if we used a professional firm it would cost a fortune, if it could be done at all, and the fact that we are doing it with volunteers is a great tribute to the Trust.

New volunteers A number of new Volunteers joined following our Open Day, and we could do with some more still; not just engineers but anybody with enthusiasm.

The Pumping Station is in one of the most idyllic settings on Earth.

Stop at the one-stop service

HONEYSTREET Visit our Wharf on the Long Pound by Honeystreet Bridge for diesel, Calor Gas & coal water & 240 volt electrics overnight moorings pump-out & ‘Porta Potti’ disposal

Gibson’s Boat Services Telephone 01672 851232 Freench horn

on the beautiful

Kennet & Avon Canal

self-drive and skippered boats canadian canoes & cycle hire The Bath & Dundas Canal Co. Brass Knocker Basin Monkton Combe, Bath, BA2 7JD Telephone: 01225 722292 Web: www.bathcanal.com

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Reviews

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Butty

No. 176 Autumn 2006

Newbury Waterfest Pictures by Bob Naylor

H

The event was opened by Newbury Mayor, Councillor Gillian Darrant, and Wynne Gould who operated working boats from Newbury with her husband John.

undreds of people basked under the heat of a beautiful summer day to enjoy this year’s Waterfest at Newbury at the end of July.

The organising committee had help from all quarters and all the work paid off.

This was a canal event that reached out to the town. Newbury Mayor, Councillor Gillian Darrant opened the event along with Wyn Gould, well-known to all canal enthusiasts in Newbury.

And local businesses gave their support. The sponsors included Vodaphone, Newbury Building Society, Newbury Weekly News adn Hope & Clay.

Visiting stall holders of all varieties from bric a brac to rescued donkeys remarked on the great atmospher and excellant organisation and are keen to come back next year.

Visitn boats brought colour to the event.

Winners of the best turned out boat, Rob and Ann Myall

The ducksrace entries head for the finishing line

34

The model boats attracted children of all ages

Pete Jordan commentates

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Butty

No. 176 Autumn 2006

Leonard Pearcey Non-technical book reviews fruit flies like a banana

By Steve Haywood First published in 2004 by Summerdale ISBN 1 84024 351 1 317 pages. £7.99 soft cover

S

ubtitled ‘england (sic) by canal and classic car’, the author with his narrowboat ‘Justice’ and his classic Triumph Herald sets out to discover what it is that makes the English so English.

He reminded me of one of my favourite writers Robert Gibbings whose Sweet Thames Run Softly and Till I End My Song have been a delight since my university days, beautifully illustrated with wood engravings by RG himself, and admittedly about river and not canal.

Steve Haywood is equally good at describing people and places, though I wish he didn’t have from time to time such an obsession with certain body parts and bodily functions.

But don’t let that put you off this highly enjoyable read – you can sense them coming and easily avoid them.

This is another book which blends in the story of Tom Rolt whose own book ‘Narrow Boat’ inspired the founding of the Inland Waterways Association.

Tim Wheeldon Technical book reviews

Waterways past and present,

by Derek Pratt First printed in 2006 by Adlard Coles Nautical 9780713676341 160 pages, £19.99 hard cover

T

his is a new book and I am always amazed that our waterways are so rich in images, both historic and present, that authors can find ways to produce books that give a different dimension to such a well-covered subject.

But Derek Pratt has done it again and this (very small) coffee table – shall we say coffee stool? – book carries with it that certain something that hooks you immediately with its terrific photos and concise but highly explanatory captions.

I assume that all the photographs are the author’s – there’s nothing to indicate otherwise - some of the really excellent black and white ones were taken up to 40 years ago when Derek must have been a very talented youngster.

And his recent pictures are well up to his usual standard – excelling in some cases; a great shot of Caen Hill for example.

If I can find one grouse it is that many pages are not numbered which makes looking up something from the index a bit tedious.

However, notwithstanding that, this book would make an excellent present – but read it yourself first!

No Secrets

By Leo McNeir First published in 2006 by Enigma ISBN 0 9531742 4 7 351 pages. £8.99 soft cover

Y

es indeed – Marnie Walker is back with her fiancé and assistant and local vicar and some familiar members of the police force, which should tell you that although she does all she can to avoid trouble and concentrate on her narrowboat and interior design business, one again she gets caught up in a murder.

Everything I’ve said before about Leo McNeir applies here, and although my spell-check doesn’t like the word, this book is also unputdownable.

And a credit too for the cover illustration by Alex Prowse which beautifully captures the atmosphere of the Regent’s Canal.

There is a marvellous twist exactly half way through and another just before the end, and the writing is compelling if occasionally slightly wordy so that in my eagerness to find out what was going on I had to skim-read from time to time.

Why hasn’t TV snapped up Marnie and her creator?

Restoring the Kennet & Avon Canal

by Peter Lindley-Jones First published in 2002 by Tempus Publishing Ltd Reprinted in 2006 ISBN 0752423878 160 pages. £16.99 soft cover ome years ago at a meeting of the erstwhile ACE (Association of Canal Enterprises – now KATA) I said that the private sector on the K&A must never forget the debt that they owed to the pioneers in the saving and the restoration of the canal.

If it wasn’t for them we wouldn’t be here and when the story came to be written we would see and understand the supreme efforts made against overwhelming political odds, physical and financial obstacles and contrary opinions.

Well, the story has been written and we can follow the account of a battle that resulted in a victory so complete that, at the time, even those in the front line could have scarcely believed in their final success.

Peter Lindley-Jones, himself one of those pioneers, has painstakingly put together this highly detailed account of the resurrection of the canal which, when you reach the end, leaves you feeling exhausted with the tension, effort, and the sheer realisation that it was such “a damned close-run thing.”

Although described as a reprint, Peter has brought the book up to date to include mention of finishing off the work, the celebratory 87-mile party and the visit by Prince Charles.

I believe that anyone remotely interested in, connected with or just in love with the K&A should read this book and be hugely grateful to all those named in it.

S

Books reviewed in The Butty are normally available from the Trust shop on Devizes Wharf or through other Trust shops.

If it is not convenient to visit in person you can use our mail order service by telephoning 01380 729489.

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the

Butty Letters to the Editor

No. 176 Autumn 2006

Letters on any subject related to the canal are welcome. We want to encourage debate about canal issues. This is your forum to voice Editor, Di Harris your views. Requests for anonymity will be honoured, but no letter will be published unless it arrives with contact details.

Letters should be not more than 300 words and may be edited for reasons of space or clarity. Send letters to the Editor: contact details on page 3.

THE FINAL FRONTIER (The Butty 174 Spring 2006)

I

have cruised the K&A for nearly 15 years now and I have always pointed out the pillboxes and tank traps to visitors.

A long time ago I asked an American boy if he thought the line would have held. “No problem”, he said.

An English boy’s response was “No chance!”.

Now, is this an indication of a national attribute – the optimism of the American and the pessimism of the Englishman?

A Spanish boy asked the same question just laughed.

Picture by Bob Naylor

Pamela Bemment, nb ‘Clara Louisa’, Bradford on Avon

SAVING WATER — COULD BRITISH WATERWAYS DO BETTER?

B

ritish Waterways are very laudably asking us all to conserve water. Have they told their own maintenance staff?

The water point at Hungerford Wharf is leaking. It’s been leaking for at least 3 months. Several phone calls

have been made to Gloucester reporting this leak. But nothing has been done.

Shouldn’t BW be leading by example?

Jenny Askew Newbury

British Waterways South West, replies

B

ritish Waterways is working to conserve water on the Kennet & Avon Canal and is also encouraging customers to do so by following their ‘Seven Steps to Saving Water’ which is available to download from www.waterscape.com/savewater.

We are aware of the issues at Hungerford water point and are

36

attempting to solve the problem, however, it is more complicated than first thought.

We are currently undertaking a review of all of the water points along the canal for improvement to the mechanisms so that problems like this can be prevented in future.

READING BRANCH GOLDEN JUBILEE REPORT — CLARIFICATION

T

he interesting précis of the jubilee of Reading Branch, in the Spring ‘Butty’, contained the following comment, under the heading ‘The work goes on’ - ‘with the £25million National Lottery grant, the canal was finally, officially opened in 1990’.

I am sorry to say that this statement is incorrect.

The sequence of finance and events was different.

The Trust was, by definition, in the forefront of the restoration programme from that date in 1956. In the later years, restoration had been led by finance raised by the Trust and supported by the riparian local authorities and BW. From the 1980s, the local authorities were brought together into an informal, group and provided, in total, £500,000 per annum over 7 years for restoration and the Trust added substantially to this cash.

Adding to the momentum to open was the fact that the Trust Chairman, Admiral Sir William O’Brien had obtained agreement for the Queen to ‘cut the ribbon’.

This galvanised an already active BW into pouring money into the final stages of lock restoration, despite the ‘remainder way’ status of the K&A. So the official re-opening in 1990 owed nothing to the Lottery, which wasn’t then in existence.

The 1990 re-opening was a necessary stage, but was followed by a little publicised disaster. Almost immediately, sections of the canal were closed. The Crofton pounds emptied themselves through their sides, some Caen Hill

pounds leaked like sieves and the water supply to the summit effectively failed.

Repairs to the worst leaks were effected and in 1993 the Caen Hill back pumping programme was launched. £1 million was raised by the Trust and the local authorities completed this incredible project in one year, 1995/1996.

It was then that the real future problem was increasingly apprehended and that was the prospect of a catastrophic collapse of any part of the Bath Valley sections, which could be of such a devastating nature as to cause the closing of the canal and the wasting of all previous efforts.

Thus the application for Heritage Lottery was made in 1995 and in the 5 years of its operation, part of the £25 million lottery money, matched by £4m from BW, the local authorities and the Trust, allowed the Bath section to be secured for the next 200 years (hopefully) and many other major works to be effected.

Work on the Bath valley, which absorbed about £13m of the funds, did reveal that the danger of collapse was real and two small failures occurred during the progress of the work.

A major geological fault was found near to Bath and made secure.

Peter Lindley-Jones’ book Restoring the Kennet and Avon Canal covers the history of the Trust and puts the Lottery funding in its correct context.

Brian Oram Rowde, Devizes

PUTTING THE RECORD STRAIGHT

W

e were obviously delighted to read the review of Narrowboat, the new magazine published by Waterways World Ltd, in The Butty.

Thank you! However, I would just like to clarify one issue.

Whilst Hugh was Editor of Waterways World from 1979 to 2005, he was not one of the founders of the magazine!

Waterways World was launched in 1972, Hugh joined as News Editor in 1976 before

taking up the Editor’s role in 1979. Hugh remains part of the WW team but his energies are now focussed on Narrowboat.

We do pride ourselves on the accuracy of Waterways World (and now Narrowboat) so please forgive this pedantry and desire to keep the record straight.

Peter Johns Publisher and Managing Director Waterways World Ltd

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Butty Letters to the Editor

No. 176 Autumn 2006

MOORED BOATS

I

time, it really is a serious problem, are there any plans to alleviate this situation?

Picture by Angela Ford

have just returned from a weeks break on the K&A between Caen Hill and Bath and was very concerned by the amount of permanently moored boats in a really poor state that are being lived on all of the

John Holmes, Royston, Hertfordshire

British Waterways South West, replies

B

ritish Waterways is monitoring the situation on the Kennet & Avon Canal regularly and a number of boats are currently within the enforcement process.

If a boat is licensed on a ‘continuous cruising’ basis it must move on a regular basis around the network (or a significant part of it).

The boat must not stay in

the same place for more than 14 days (unless special reasons prevent onward movement).

This means that as long as boaters are complying with these guidelines they are able to live aboard their boats.

All licenced boats have both a current Boat Safety Certificate and insurance certificate.

C

an anyone explain to me why boaters are expected to follow all the mooring rules set down by BW while BW workboats are moored — and have been for extended periods — on visitor moorings and lock moorings all along the canal.

We never used to see this.

We’ve got used to seeing BW

workboats tied up with bailer twine not rope and BW workboats adrift because they’ve been tied up badly, but never before have they hogged the visitor and lock moorings.

What’s happening?

Angela Ford Melksham

British Waterways South West, replies

Farewell to Terry

O

ccasionally British Waterways workboats moor up at visitor and lock moorings.

Depending on where works along the canal are taking place teams may need to moor up at these locations for access

T

reasons.

British Waterways is looking into how often this occurs.

Where possible workboats are not moored at visitor and lock moorings so those moorings can be used by customers.

Picture by Bob Naylor

erry Kemp has retired from BW after 29 years.

He opted out of a frantic stockbroking career in 1978 to become a British Waterways canalman at Pewsey.

In March 1988 he became the Kennet & Avon Canal Recreation Development Officer at Padworth and in January 1989 he became the Canal’s Waterway Manager.

In 1992 Terry was seconded to the Kennet & Avon Canal Trust Project and during his 3 years with the Trust he was responsible for events like the Combe Manor musical events.

Fleur de Rhé-Philipe said, “Terry has been an essential part of the fanatical Kennet & Avon Promotion Team. What I shall remember best are the 3 years he was seconded to the Trust to run the Water Appeal that provided funds for the backpumps. Every event was a nail-biting rush to the finish — but always successful.

“One example of many was Terry working through the night with very severe toothache to complete the Canal Artists exhibition before the launch.”

It became a rueful joke in BW that any useful item not nailed down got “seconded” to the Trust by Terry! He has many gifts but two stand out –

BW OVERSTAYING ON MOORINGS

his ability of get on with everyone and get what was needed from them – and of course the ability to produce perfect weather for each event he organised!

In October 1995 Terry became Recreation Manager Grand Union, South but he finally ‘came home’ with the British Waterways restructure in 2003 when he became Economic & Social Development Manager for the South West region.

His love affair with the K&A has kept him close to Trust activities, commentating at events such as the Newbury Water Festival last year and Reading WaterFest this year.

We hope the love affair will continue past retirement. The K&A would not be the success it is today without him. He has

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Butty

No. 176 Autumn 2006

What’s On Diary September Wednesday 20th Bath Branch Committee Meeting, Xa Sturgis will give a presentation of the Holburne Museum’s Development Plan at Jane Austen’s house, opposite the Holburne Museum.

Wednesday 27th Newbury Branch, 25 Years of the Newbury Working Party Group, talk by Bill Nicholson, 7.45pm, The Stone Building, Newbury Wharf Friday 29th Reading Branch, Turnhams Farm Hall, Littleheath Road, Tilehurst, 7.45 pm for 8.00 pm start.

Satruday 30th Devizes Branch, The Dorset & Somerset Canal, talk by Derrick Hunt. 7.30pm, Canal Centre, Devizes Wharf. This event is open to the public.

October Sunday 15th Devizes Branch, Lengthsman’s inspection. Help us provide a comprehensive report on the state of the canal, towpath and vegetation along “our” stretch of the K&A (Barge Inn, Seend to

UNCLASSIFIED ADS

Wootton Rivers) by joining our walk, cycle or cruise. Contact Roger Hollands (01249 650952) if you’re interested in helping.

Wednesday 25th Newbury Branch, The Military on English Canals by Hugh Compton, 7.45pm, The Stone Building, Newbury Wharf Friday 27th October Reading Branch, Turnhams Farm Hall, Littleheath Road, Tilehurst, 7.45 pm for 8.00 pm start.

November Wednesday 18th Devizes Branch, Skittles Challenge vs Wilts & Berks canal Trust. Help us keep our trophy and join us for this fun-filled evening at The Cross Keys, Rowde. £5.50 per person to include supper. Please contact Alice Boyd on 01380 724701 to book your place.

Friday 24th Reading Branch, Turnhams Farm Hall, Littleheath Road, Tilehurst, 7.45 pm for 8.00 pm start.

Wednesday 29th Newbury Branch. The Douro River

by Roger Squires, 7.45pm, The Stone Building, Newbury Wharf.

The Barge Inn Honeystreet

Boat surveys Professional surveys of any type of boat undertaken for sale, insurance or damage. Over 40 years of boating experience. Prompt, efficient and sympathetic surveys with realistic recommendations.

Now incorporating Richard Birchell.

Gibson’s Boat Surveys Ltd. 01672 851232 Sundial Marine Services For gas, oil, solid fuel heating servicing and installation, plumbing and electrical work contact Eddie Belston Tel: 01225 873243 or mobile: 07795 550839 Bob Naylor Boat Safety Examiner Tel: 01380 840584, Mobile 07788134901 Email: bob@boatsafe.co.uk

The Stores High Street Great Bedwyn

Historic Canalside Inn serving home cooked food from noon — 2.30pm and 7 — 9pm

A Narrowboat holiday in Devon Short breaks & tranquil weeks on landlocked, 10 miles of lock-free Grand Western Canal. Own mooring & car park gives opportunities for day out visits in the West Country.

01884 252178, pat@middevonhireboats.co.uk www.middevonhireboats.co.uk

Real Ales Campsite

Buying a narrowboat?

Need it moved to another location?

Don’t have time to do it yourself?

Let me move it for you.

Apprehensive about cruising for the first time? Call Roy on 01635 821780

Stoppage Kelston Lock 9th – 29th October Top and bottom gates will be replaced, work to cills, minor brickwork repairs to chamber, lock landing access improvements.

This is being carried out before the normal stoppage season because of the risk of the River Avon flooding.

general provisions newsagent off-licence specialist cheeses home-cooked ham fresh vegetables photocopying and fax facilities

Marquee for parties

canal pump-out cards

Tel: 01672 851705

Tel: 01672 870211

www.the-barge-inn.com

Crop circle venue with notice boards

Roses and castles Painting courses These ever-popular courses will be running again at Devizes Wharf Canal Centre.

One day course (£35) Two day courses (£75) All materials & refreshments included.

For more details and dates, contact: 01793 615898 (evenings) or email spengi@ntlworld.com

Open Mon–Fri: 7am–8pm Sat: 7am–7pm Sun: 7am–2pm

Satellite Television Martyn Satman Telephone: 07914 401036 Forget ghosting, crackling sound, with satellite.

100% perfect picture, over 200 free channels and no monthly payments. Fully fitted system on site to your existing television, including demo – £450 38

Boat Trips

NW & J

Briggs

From the Cunning Man, Burghfield Bridge Public trips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .May to September Private party hire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .A range of cruises Day boat hire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Self-drive for up to 12 people Holiday hire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Berth Narrowboat Flexible weekly or short break periods Moorings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Permanent or temporary Enquiries: 14 Beech Lane, Earley, Reading, RG6 5PT Tel: 0118 987 1115 Fax: 0118 921 0604

www.kennetcruises.co.uk

the

Butty

No. 176 Autumn 2006

PRIZE CROSSWORD The prize for the winner of this crossword will be a video from the Trust’s Shop. Two runners-up will get £10 voucher to be used in the shop. Send your entries with your name and address to: Prize Crossword, Kennet & Avon Canal Trust, Canal Centre, Couch Lane, Devizes SN10 1EB before 1st November 2006. Photocopies will be accepted.

The Butty Prize Crossword No 176 Name . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..................................... ..................................... .....................................

Across 1.

Scanty and sugary – gratifyingly brief! (5,3,5) 9.

What Her Majesty does may sound precipitate. (5) 10. Change volume with song following, reverse it with back number. (9) 11. Ran down, led astray to Alice’s place. (10) 12. Beautiful fairy concealed within imperial surroundings. (4) 14. Regularly query all confusion if right is missing (7) 16. Flatulence embraced by native – of this Wiltshire borough? (7) 17. Service bod may be flashy. (7) 19. Disinter a hunter distractedly. (7) 20. Destiny found in reversal of sweet affaire. (4) 21. Rich caste transformed with terror initially in order to produce the likes of Wren? (10) 24. Fashionable worker conceals European limb – how graceless. (9) 25. Bovver - horse locked in by battered oar. (5) 26. Mathematician has break – we’re all going on one according to Cliff. (6,7)

Butty Crossword 175 Solution

Down 1.

Fruit market – subject of Simon & Garfunkel song. (10,4) 2.

Vegetable dome. (5) 3.

Superior cut of meat served when lion butchered following offer. (10) 4.

Book with outwardly trendy ending is something new. (7) 5.

Seasons water sources. (7) 6.

Ages to untangle phrase without measure of acidity. (4) 7.

Back marker may follow one who closes. (4-5) 8.

Could be classical study – or maybe just passé information! (7,7) 13. Straight post – may provide promotional opportunity. (6,4) 15. Acrobatic free stunt removes restraints. (9) 18. Container inserted in this place generates cover of vegetation. (7) 19. Remove restraint from United Nations jerk. (7) 22. Record about time imprisoned. (5) 23. Broad smile provides ray of light. (4)

UNCLASSIFIED ADS Boat haulage Move your boat? Land locked? Wish to cruise elsewhere? Let me tow it for you. Up to 30ft 1.5 tons. www.anchorhaulage.co.uk 01963 34863 Howard Smith

Boat for sale Dejon 17, Honda O/B, sleeps 2 + 2 children, cooker, elsan, BSSC,4 wheel braked trailer, £2600. 01380 870384.

Canalside House for sale Georgian 4-bed townhouse in Devizes with s/contained 2bed basement flat. 59 ft Mooring. Call Brian Poulton on 01380 727673.

Fancy a weekend’s hard graft?

The NWPG arranges monthly restoration trips to southern canals. Learn new skills – for free! Contact Graham Hawkes on 0118 941 0586 or

Commission a collector’s model of your nb/trailboat/etc or cottage, or both – in a bottle. Leaflet John Burden, 32 Astley Close, Pewsey, SN9 5BD. 01672 563193. Guild Waterways Artists.

Waterways Craft Guild – Master

Cushions Now surplus to requirements after replacing dinette with loose furniture, sufficient cushions to make into a double bed. Brown / orange covers. FREE in return for a donation to the Trust. Tel: 01380 723801

grahamhawkes@btinternet.com

Winner: Noel Davies, Newbury. Runners up: Mrs S E Emmett, Farmborough, Bath and Michael Lott of Purley, Surrey.

Unclassified ads are free for members of The Kennet & Avon Canal Trust for up to 30 words 39

Mail Order Form Please send me

Qty

Boat-sized art Limited edition miniature prints of the Kennet & Avon Canal by Nick Turley

£

Boat sizes art

Chri stma from s gifts K&A the Cana l

K&A Canal videos

Dundas Aquaduct . . . . . . . £5.18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Caen Hill Flight . . . . . . . . . £5.18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Crofton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £5.18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Newbury Bridge. . . . . . . . . £5.18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

K&A Sampler Cross stitch sampler . . . . £15.37 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

K&A Videos Reading to Summit . . . . . £14.38 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Summit to Bristol . . . . . . £14.38 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Books Pub walks along the K&A . £7.50 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Aconcliff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £7.70 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Paint Roses & Castles . . . £14.08 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Canal maps Timeline Swindon/Devizes . £7.04 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

OS Swindon/Devizes . . . . . £8.05 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Geoprojects K&A map . . . . £5.50 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

All prices include P&P and VAT if applicable Delivery address

Maps

Name. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ......................................... ......................................... .........................................

Post code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

I enclose cheque/PO (payable to Kennet & Avon Canal Trust (Enterprise) Ltd. Please debit my Mastercard/Visa/Switch/Delta/Maestro

K&A Canal Cross stitch sampler

Card No: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Expiry date: . . . . . . . . . . . . / ....................

Switch issue number: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Security code: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Signature of cardholder. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Or phone 01380 729489 (office hours) with your credit card details Name. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Postcode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Canal books

Please allow 28 days for delivery Send your completed order to:

Kennet & Avon Canal Trust (Enterprise) Ltd Canal Centre, Couch Lane, Devizes, Wiltshire SN10 1EB Comprehensive book list available (please send SAE)