Work Parties begin at Fenny Lock HOLIDAY BOAT As reported in May TPT, IWA MK Branch agreed with British RE-FIT APPEAL Waterways to adopt Fenny Stratford Lock, in response to the general call for more volunteer input to our waterways with the establishment of the Canal & River Trust. A set-up meeting was held at the lock on 15August. C&RT was represented by Martha Holdom and Miriam Tedder (Volunteer Leader for the South East). The Branch was represented by Rodney Evans, Branch organiser for the project, Peter Caswell, Branch Chairman, and three other member volunteers of the fifteen who have signed up to participate. C&RT and its contractors will remain responsible for the lock paddle gear and bridge operating gear maintenance and non-slip surfaces, grass cutting and sanitary station care/operation, and refuse disposal. It was agreed that the Branch would be responsible for the general tidiness and vegetation control of the area from the Pump House to the railway bridge, and flower beds and hanging baskets at the Pump House. We will also undertake painting, as required, of the Lock, Bridge, towpath side fencing and Pump House doors. Supply of materials and equipment is being organised with C&RT. The first working party, to generally clear up the site, is to be held on Wednesday 29 August.
QEF, the Queen Elizabeth Foundation for Disabled People, is completing a re-fit of its wide-beam holiday boat. Based at Hemel Hempstead, it was one of the first in the UK to be adapted for disabled use, accommodating eight people including three wheelchair users. The aft deck is specially adapted so that a wheelchair user can steer. Holidays on board provide a way for disabled children and young adults to achieve new goals, boost skills and gain independence.
Having been in use for some years, the boat was in need of a complete re-fit. Tasks include fitting a new fridge and cooker, overhaul of heating, plumbing, engine and transFuture work is being planned, and working party dates will be arranged in mission, new internal woodconjunction with the Project Volunteers. Any other members who would work, a new walk-in shower, like to volunteer will be very welcome and should contact Rodney Evans and a universal sling.
(see back page). The more we have, the lighter the load!
Rodney Evans. QEF welcomes your donations to help complete the re-
A reminder that the next Branch Clean-up takes place on 20-21 October. fit. You can donate online at http://qef.org.uk/donate/ More info from David King (contact details on back page).
or telephone 01732 841132.
Our base at Linslade is within weekend reach of the Waterways Museum at Stoke Bruerne, or the Chiltern Hills and Aylesbury. Choice of exciting one or two week cruises including the Thames. 28 luxury boats, 2-8 berth. Boat builders. Repairs. Dry dock. Waterside holiday cottage.
Rothschild Road, Linslade, Leighton Buzzard, Beds, LU7 2TF Tel: 01525 372355 Fax: 01525 852308 Web site: www.canalholidays.co.uk
Email: james@canalholidays.co.uk
Members of IWA, Blue Riband, BMF and B&MK Waterway Trust
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