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Home , Cotswold Canals Trust, Ebley, Five Valleys, Frampton Mansell, Kennet and Avon Canal, Marston Meysey

HISTORIC ROUTE Severn / Bell House, Wallbridge , , Glos, GL5 3JS Saul Junction S [email protected] 01453 752568 Whitminster To T 1 Stroudwater A38 Gloucester R Jude Lindley Connected M5 & Beyond TRUST ADMINISTRATORS B Project O Justine Hopkins Length Eastington U Newtown D Bond’s Mill Vice Presidents THE W Neil Carmichael MP TROW STONEHOUSE is published by the Geoffrey Clifton-Brown MP Ryeford A Chris Coburn MBE Cotswold Trust. T The magazine takes its name Ebley 1 E Dr David Fletcher CBE from the historic Severn sailing Dudbridge Professor Mark Horton vessels A R Rt Hon Sir Richard Needham A46 Compilation & Layout Capel’s Mill Bowbridge STROUD Development Advisor David Jowett 01453 755535 Thrupp Neville Nelder Brims- [email protected] Brimscombe 11 Upper Leazes, Stroud, Glos., combe The GL5 1LA

is a Registered Charity. RH Its aims are: Design & Print Liaison Sharon Dainton of T To promote for the benefit Golden Frampton Mansell of the community, The Design Co-operative P 01453 751778 Valley H the re-opening of the H Daneway Cotswold Canals Printed by Zeta Printing Services A 01453 825047 A Sapperton Sapperton To promote the restoration Tunnel M of the two waterways S to give a balance between Advertising Enquiries Peter Perry E the needs of navigation, RH [email protected] E development, recreation, Coates TEL: 01376 346705 S heritage, landscape A423 N FAX: 01376 348550 conservation, wildlife and Kemble natural habitats. 137 Notley Road, Braintree, 3 A429 , CM7 1HF Ewen & To promote the use of all the as PLEASE MENTION THE TROW Siddington Cirencester Arm The Thames & . WHEN RESPONDING TO ADS Cotswold To achieve restoration of THE VIEWS & OPINIONS HEREIN Water S South Cerney the Cotswold Canals as a DO NOT NECESSARILY Park navigable route from REPRESENT THOSE OF THE E Saul Junction to the COTSWOLD CANALS TRUST North RH Cerney Wick V COPY DATE Published by Wilts Canal Some sections of the Thames & Severn Canal E REG. CHARITY No 269721 5 JAN 1 Mar Latton are in private ownership A419 with no public access Reg Co: The Cotswold Canals Trust 5 APR 1 Jun Registered in No. 1207787 R Registered Office: Island House, 5 JUL 1 Sep Moor Road, , HP5 1NZ 5 OCT 1 Dec 2 N Eisey

RH Cotswold Canals Trust: www.cotswoldcanals.com Volunteers’ site: www.cct.teamconnect.org.uk ENews Registration: www.cctmembers-newsletter.co.uk Canal Route & mile marker The Cotswold Canals Trust is a member of RH Round River RH House Thames To Front Cover: Saul Junction featuring new lock gates and a refurbished Junction House (MG) Jim’s Jottings Trust Chairman Jim White

The pages of this edition of The Trow are full of positive accounts of the CCT’s activities to deliver the restoration of our two canals for the benefit of the community. This would not have been possible without the commitment of volunteers supported by the Trust and Council (SDC).

This work has now been further enhanced by Many projects have advanced in the last few the promise of strong financial input to months; here are some examples. The achieve a successful bid this Autumn to the Western Depot at Eastington has totally Heritage Lottery Fund, for Stroudwater refurbished an old work Navigation Connected. As you will read in the boat, now launched as Annette II, which is a following pages, SDC has committed to £3m, hydraulic power support vessel and also County Council has approved doubles as a very effective second tug. A £700,000 and Canal & River Trust £625,000, year-long bank piling and towpath widening phased over the build programme. Of equal project between Ryeford double lock and importance is the commitment from all three Ryeford bridge is nearing completion. partners for considerable contributions ‘in Preparations are well advanced for dredging kind’. We are extremely grateful for their and disposal, at various locations between the commitments which demonstrate the Ocean and beyond Bowbridge in anticipation determination of our partners to deliver a of bringing that full section into navigation. successful project connecting Stroud by water to the national waterways network. To Page 6 u

April saw a very successful conference for all our volunteers, which is an annual open forum A SLICE THROUGH TIME giving a means for them to shape the way forward. All volunteers who undertake Please come to construction or maintenance work, and those Saul Junction Lock who engage with the public, are given suitable Saturday & Sunday 20/21 May, training. A well-attended first aid course was at any time from 10 am to 4 pm. held recently and our team leaders on construction projects took a two day assessed Find out about the history of the lock CITB (Construction Industry Training Board) and the now vanished course. All our plant and machinery operators canal to Framilode. also hold the required certification. To work Follow our mystery walk and answer safely is of paramount importance and many the quiz. Listen to stories. unwelcome events often result from poor Make up your own stories about how communications. John Newton, one of our life would have been for you, Vice Chairs, has taken on the task of 200 years ago. Operations Director and has just completed a Lots of things to do for people of all ages! restructure of our depots so that reporting/support lines are clear and no one is left out on a limb. This forms part of an overall This event celebrates review of the functional structure of the Trust Canal & River Trust’s restoration of the as we prepare, with our close partners to lock in 2016, funded by HLF. meet the challenge of major restoration work, The whole event is a partnership hopefully, in the very near future - more between Canal & River Trust and CCT. details in the following editions of The Trow. 5 As members of the trust, you are remarkably successful at raising funds for specific projects, especially recently, raising the supporting funding allowing us to bid for Connected this the colour of the Cotswold Canals near Stonehouse as CCT’s latest autumn. These funds can only be used for Update Partnership, which emphasises that this is interpretation centre. This is another strand the specific dedicated purpose for which they by Val Kirby, Convener of very much a partnership project. The long in our plans to convince the HLF that we can Stroudwater Navigation Connected are raised. An appeal to fund a further trip title, to be used in all documents, is tell fascinating stories in unusual ways. The boat, for example, is showing signs of Stroudwater Navigation Connected. Gatehouse was built as a pillbox and gun becoming a viable project. There is, however, emplacement as part of ‘Stop Line Green’, another side to the coin. Partner Support As I write, we have just started the process one of England’s internal defence lines of letting a contract for the assessment of during the Second World War, so the stories There is a very substantial expense in the The big news in this edition of The Trow the heritage significance of both the that we will tell there are about 20th every day ‘housekeeping’ that keeps the has to be the three huge contributions Stroudwater Navigation and the archives of century history – shadow factories and the Trust in existence! As you would expect in from our partners. the Company of Proprietors of the local Home Guard. If you want to visit, we that long list are rent, insurances, salaries, Stroudwater Navigation. You might ask why hope to open at weekends and bank vehicle annual costs, fuel, electricity, etc. Articles from Dave Marshall of Stroud we need to do that when all the people holidays from Easter to the end of August. The main source of income to meet the District Council (SDC) and Jason Leach involved in the project already know how Even if we are closed, we will have new general expenses is the membership of the Canal & River Trust appear important both canal and archives are. The information panels in the windows, visible subscription, with gift aid, supported by elsewhere in this Trow. answer is that we need to convince the to anyone passing by. lesser amounts from the bookshop, 300 Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) and to do that Club, Visitor Centre sales, log sales, talks, we need evidence from independent experts. In Summary events and sometimes, donations. We have been told that the competition next Unfortunately, in more recent years, this year for HLF Major Project funds will be even I will end on another positive note. It is income has not balanced the general The third contribution is from greater than in 2015, so our arguments great to be working even more closely with expenditure, and we have been fortunate Gloucestershire County Council (GCC). about the importance of our project must be Stroud District Council. CCT and SDC will be to receive unplanned gifts and legacies On 29th March, GCC approved the sum rock solid. joint lead partners in the next HLF bid and that have bridged the gap. Whilst your of £700,000 to be spent on the project this is having a positive impact on our Trustees are diligent in authorizing over four years from 2019/20 onwards. Bond’s Mill Gatehouse working relationship right now. Despite the expenditure, it would be considerably County Councillor Nigel Moor, GCC competition for HLF funds, I am confident more reassuring to know that a reliable cabinet member for fire, planning and By the time you read this, we will have that we are in a better position than ever to income stream covers the necessary infrastructure said: “Our canals have opened the listed Gatehouse at Bond’s Mill win those precious funds. general costs of running the Trust. huge potential to be used and enjoyed by our communities. Not only does the Launch Day at Our membership fee is very modest when council have a responsibility as a local Bond’s Mill (MG) compared with, say, the National Trust, landowner, but also has a long and well Westonbirt Arboretum or Slimbridge Wetland established stewardship role in Centre. A large proportion of the protecting the interests of the canal, its membership subscription income is used to users and environment.” fund the net costs of the excellent Trow publication in your hands at the moment! I would like to take this opportunity to Your Trustees may need to consider raising say a huge ‘thank you’ to Mark Darlow- our membership fee, but I would first, ask Joy of GCC, Dave Marshall and Jason you to consider voluntarily increasing your Leach. Their energy and enthusiasm for annual contribution to the general running the project have been hugely influential costs of the Trust, perhaps by amending your in persuading their organisations to bank instruction or other regular donation. give such generous support. Your generous action today will maintain the trust for the future. More Good News

I am very grateful for the excellent Other achievements over the last three contribution you make to our specific months include renaming the project projects, but we must keep the machinery and creating a new project logo, as ticking over! seen above. The colour is ‘teal’, which is 6 The View From Stroud District Council by Dave Marshall

It is a measure of the importance Stroud Fund and will lead the bid process - but with District Council attaches to canal restoration the Cotswold Canals Trust team working that it has been able to commit £3m to it right alongside. over the next five years, even in a time of financial restraint. Our experience of Phase 1A – and the lessons learned - will be put to good use as will our It is just over eight years since we stepped in track record of partnership working and to rescue Phase 1A and now is the time to recruiting additional volunteers. We are build on the success of restoration so far. confident that in pooling the expertise of the CCT, ourselves and other partners, the As the biggest cash contributor and therefore funding bid to the Heritage Lottery Fund will carrying the most risk, the council would be be the best possible – and therefore give us the body accountable to the Heritage Lottery the greatest chance of success.

Stroud District Council’s offices are housed in Ebley Mill, alongside the restored Stroudwater Navigation (MG) q

9 The View from the Canal & River Trust by Jason Leach, Enterprise & Restoration Team Manager

At the Canal & River Trust, we believe that & River Trust trustees have pledged living waterways transform places and enrich £625,000 to support the restoration of the lives. In an increasingly fast-paced and Cotswold Canals. The assistance will be crowded world, our waterways are unique spread over five years from 2018 if a bid this places and play a special role in many of our year to the Heritage Lottery Fund is lives. Our canals and provide much successful. This is in addition to the support needed spaces where we can escape from ‘in kind’ that the Trust can also provide. our busy lives and make lasting memories with our family and friends. David Hagg, chief executive of Stroud District Council, comments: “We’re delighted to Many of our historic waterways have been receive support from the Canal & River Trust. with us for nearly 250 years, and we need to It’s a real endorsement of all the effort that plan to care for them for at least as long into has gone into restoring the canal. The funds the future. Since becoming the guardian of could be an important factor in helping to over 2,000 miles of canals and rivers from our secure a bid by the Cotswold Canals Trust predecessors British Waterways in July 2012, and Stroud District Council to the Heritage we have come a long way. We are committed Lottery Fund later this year which would see to preserving and enhancing these precious nearly £20m overall investment in the spaces – and as a charity, it is thanks to our waterway. Equally, we look forward to generous supporters that we’re able to working with the Canal & River Trust’s staff protect them for future generations to enjoy. and to making the best possible use of their tremendous knowledge and expertise. We are responsible for an enormous network of bridges, embankments, , aqueducts, Brindley Quays docks and and more. From restoring our own canals, improving towpaths for cyclists and creating new wildlife habitats to maintaining our distinctive infrastructure, we are constantly working to make our canals and rivers the very best they can be.

Our waterway network is a national treasure. It makes people’s lives better and we’re here to ensure that it is protected forever.

We want to support others to do the same; that’s why we are developing a closer working relationship with the Cotswold Canals Trust and fully support the aim of Stroudwater Navigation Connected.

We are pleased to announce that the Canal & River Trust is backing the bid to reconnect Stroud to the national canal network. Canal

11 “If the bid is successful, it will fulfil the If the bid to the Heritage Lottery Fund is waterway movement’s long held ambition to successful, Stroudwater Navigation Connected connect approximately 11 miles of ‘new’ canal would start in 2018/19 with the Canal & to the wider network as it will link the six miles River Trust’s contribution of £125k per of largely restored canal around Stroud, to the annum (plus staff time as can be made Canal & River Trust’s network at Saul Junction available) continuing over five years. on the Gloucester & Sharpness Canal.” As a show of support for the Canal & River Jim White chair of the Cotswold Canals Trust Trust, Val Kirkby and Jim White have both comments: “The Canal & River Trust has become Friends of the Trust. The Cotswold been supporting the Cotswold Canals for the Canals Trust and the Canal & River Trust will past few years with management support start to work closer together to bring this and professional advice although this has shared ambition to fruition. Watch this space passed largely under-the-radar to the wider for further developments. waterways movement. Their financial support now is very welcome indeed as we To find more information about our work go back to the Heritage Lottery Fund to try please visit www.canalrivertrust.org.uk and unlock the funds to complete the restoration of the Stroudwater Navigation.” To find out how you too can become a Friend of the Canal & River Trust visit our website Richard Parry chief executive of the Canal & www.canalrivertrust.org.uk/donate/become- River Trust comments: “The Cotswold Canals a-friend Trust and Stroud District Council have done an amazing job in building support for this project. We are pleased to pledge what See the Canal & River Trust’s short funding we can to help unlock the significant film (featuring the Cotswold Canals) HLF funding required. There is no better way by searching ‘How Water Adds Value’ of transforming places and enriching lives than restoring an abandoned canal and reconnecting it with its local community, especially when it will also be re-connected to the national waterway network, providing an exciting new destination for boaters to visit.”

Pontcysyllte aqueduct on the Jim White and Val Kirby have become in Friends of the Canal & River Trust (MG)

12 13 Members, will you help us?

We are undertaking a major fund-raising initiative to support the next phase of the Stroudwater Navigation Connected canal development including the latest Heritage Lottery Fund Bid.

This will connect the canal that has already been restored around Stroud to the national canal network at Saul Junction providing a wonderful local amenity for everyone.

Here's how you can help -

• Social media

• Grant Applications

• Contacting people

• Research Potential sponsors, grants, crowd funding & web-based funding-related sites etc

• Local Business Contacts Do you know an owner or key person in a local company who may be willing to sponsor us

• Celebrities Do you know a celebrity who may be willing to support us or endorse our appeals?

If you would like to join us, please contact [email protected] or call the CCT office on 01453 752568

15 Restoration Update Phase 1A - Stonehouse Work at Ford’s Wharf at Ryeford continues to Brimscombe with the piling work hopefully finishing in by Chief Executive, Ken Burgin April having benefited from a boost during the Easter school holidays (piling work has been limited in term time to avoid disturbing school music lessons). Once the fish There is a lot of work going on over a very Progress at Walbridge Lower Lock has spawning is over, work will be able to wide range of projects at the moment and been limited due to delayed agreements resume on the river side of the causeway sometimes doing even quite simple things covering land around the tail of the lock. further upstream. can get very complicated. It is easy to envy These are needed to enable material to be the canal pioneers who originally built our removed from around the unstable wall at Significant maintenance work is planned and canals. the tail of the lock so that it can be repaired. ongoing preparations should result in Work to finish Bowbridge Bridge (MG) p Now that work to finish Bowbridge Bridge, extensive dredging programmes on Phase 1A. Both the Stroudwater Navigation and the a Gloucestershire County Council project, is Annette II, which is similar in size to Wookey Thames & Severn Canal were built in the making rapid progress, it seems inevitable Hole, has been added to the work boat fleet space of about five years each. Once their that Wallbridge Lower Lock will be the last following a fit out at the Western Depot. respective Company of Proprietors obtained major Heritage Lottery Fund-funded / Stroud their authorising Acts, they could get on with District Council-managed project on Phase it, although, even for them, it was not 1A to complete – hopefully in the summer. always that straightforward. The Ham Mill Lock area seems to have These days, there are a vast array of more than its fair share of problems. In regulations with which we have to comply. addition to the landslip below the lock which Saul to Stonehouse (Phase 1B) The intent behind them is usually admirable has been subject to a whole series of but the consequence is massive complexity suggested solutions but with no agreed way Work aiming to bring forward the restoration and a lot of paperwork. forward at present, there have been major of Walk Bridge has been making good problems with the overflow culvert around progress. Initial discussions have taken place New piled edge to Ford’s Wharf at Ryeford (MG) p In addition to this, there has to be more the lock. The route of this was found to with the landowners affected and the The view from Ryeford road bridge (MG) q focus on design and project planning. deviate away from the lock – this was found response has been encouraging. Clearly Some of the things we are doing involve when the footings of a new bungalow being details need to be established before final some serious engineering and the Trust is built adjacent to the lock went through it. agreements can be entered into. very fortunate in having a number of very Inspection of the remainder suggests severe good volunteer engineers within its ranks damage both upstream and downstream of There is also good news on the funding front these days. the now missing section. In the case of both, with one large grant being offered and tree roots are implicated and in the case of another to be determined shortly. CCT will be The upshot of all this is that it is often not the latter, there is suspicion that it has been able to make a contribution and discussions possible to just go and do something on damaged under the road by the installation will be needed with other key partners to the ground at short notice. Even something of services. The most likely option now is to agree the project can proceed. If any readers as apparently simple as dredging is subject replace nearly all of it with a new pipe – at want to contribute to this project, hopefully to a great deal of regulations requiring least we will then have a solution that will there will be an opportunity to do so later in waste exemptions to be registered, endure but it will be a lot of work for our the year. However, if anyone wants to make sampling and analysis of the silt and very volunteers. a substantial donation, we would welcome a careful planning as to what to do with what discussion now as it may just make the Looking towards Ryeford road bridge (MG) q is removed. Plans are well advanced for the installation of difference between being able to move the new water feed system at Gough's ahead or not. On the Stroudwater Canal, those old Orchard, Brimscombe. This is one of those enabling Acts of Parliament still have teeth projects where a whole host of regulatory A key input into this discussion will be because the canal was never “Abandoned” approvals have been needed. Planning revising the costs and understanding the and the Company of Proprietors of the permission, a water transfer license and an risks of the project. In order to do this, Stroudwater Navigation still exists with most Environmental Permit are all needed and some ground investigations have been undertaken of its powers intact. This is not a “get out of of the work cannot start until May due to the to find out about the underlying geology and jail free” card as a lot of modern legislation fish spawning season. We are aiming to get it to try and establish what structures are in trumps those powers but in certain specific installed in time for the reopening of Wallbridge the ground. Together, these reveal quite an areas, it is very useful. Lower Lock so boats can carry on upstream. interesting and complex background to the site. 16 17 We have always known that the proposed limit. Furthermore, the foundation of this new bridge will be the fifth to be built on the north side seems to be relying the canal at this site. Trying to piece together on the channel wall at the edge of the what is already there and why is key to towpath rather than the substantial understanding what needs to be done and humpback bridge abutment. what risks might be present. The ground investigation works found the The first surprise was the underlying block of masonry that would have supported geology. For most of the route of the canal in the pintle of the and also the Ground investigations at Walk Bridge (KB) the lower Severn Vale, the ground consists location of the northern abutment of the of soft lays over a much harder mudstone humpback bridges. The latter was very thick layer which is usually about 4.5 metres at something like 1.6m. An additional Whitminster Lock along from Walk Bridge (MG) p A HISTORY OF WALK BRIDGE below the surface. In the case of Walk borehole was drilled vertically down through Bridge, the mudstone was only about 3m this abutment and, about 4.5m down, a tough down, a short distance to the south of the layer of wood was found with soft ground bridge but 9m down on the north side. This below. It seems that when the original canal perhaps indicates that a former route of the builders reached the base level of the canal river ran this way and into the mudstone. and only found soft ground, they simply built a timber raft and built the bridge on top of it The ground investigations only provided a – it seems to have worked for them! partial picture of what structures are in the ground but what was found coupled with The question being addressed at present is studying other surviving bridges suggests on what should the new bridge be built? the following: Quite a lot else has been going on over the Bridge 1: Built in the 1770s as a humpback past few months. With the permission of accommodation bridge. The canal itself was Ecotricity, the SDC volunteer team has The bridge at the tail of Whitminster Lock (MG) p about 1.5m lower than it is now. investigated Westfield Lock to assess the Bond’s Mill Bridge (MG) q state of the lock. It was found to be largely Bridge 2: When the Gloucester - Sharpness intact, but with the coping stones missing, Canal was built, the water level of the except for the very top of the lock and Stroudwater Canal between Saul Junction especially the southern side where everything and Whitminster Lock was raised by 1.5m. missing from part way along the top recess This would have reduced the headroom where the new course of Oldbury Brook was under the first bridge by the same amount formed when the was built. and flooded the towpath. The original arch would have been removed, the abutments Whitminster Lock has been surveyed and, extended upwards and a new arch built. working with SDC, it is planned to bring forward the flood modelling needed to help Bridge 3: The previous track became a refine the ongoing design work for Phase 1B, public highway and the now higher support any early planning applications and humpback bridge was causing issues with generally reduce risk to assist the q Looking across Walk Bridge to Saul Junction (KB) users so, in the 1850s, the bridge was forthcoming HLF bid. The site of Stonepitts Bridge (MG) q replaced by a swing bridge. The history books suggest that the canal was narrowed Investigations continue into the replacement by 0.6m at this time but comparing the width of the deck of Bond’s Mill Bridge and of the current channel with that of discussions have taken place with Occupation Bridge and Nutshell Bridge organisations potentially able to design suggests this did not happen. and/or deliver the bridge. The current plan is to install a new powered counter balanced Bridge 4: After the canal was closed, the composite lift bridge and to later re-use swing bridge was removed and replaced by much of the design for manually operated the low level concrete bridge we see today. versions at Stonepitts Bridge and This is in poor condition, hence the weight Whitminster Lock Bridge which are both 18 19 between Saul and the A38. In the meantime, The problem here has been that the mortar plans. We will let people know via Enews at However, in the comparison between all of our volunteers have fixed a small leak by did not reach down as far as the formwork in the appropriate time and a future edition of the options, the canal is identified as feasible Bond’s Mill Bridge and have painted the quite a few areas. This was a problem that The Trow if the consultation period coincides and adverse effect capable of mitigation. adjacent handrails. The latter will smarten up only became apparent when the formwork with its publication. Even though it might be more expensive the immediate area of the gun turret/ was removed after the arch was completed. than the pipeline, the cost still falls within the gatehouse which CCT is developing as a The gaps need preparing and then filling with Over the summer, WRG is planning a lot of affordable band. visitor attraction. a specialised mortar designed for the job. Canal Camps at Inglesham Lock. Real After this, it should be possible to get on and progress was made last summer and we look The argument boils down to are the collateral Over the summer, we will be revisiting the finish the job. Mike Hughes, a civil engineer forward to seeing more of the same again advantages of a restored canal work more HLF bid documentation to ensure it is up to who worked on several aspects of the canal this year. The work is funded by the IWA Tom than the additional complexity and some date with revised cost estimates. We also project prior to his retirement, is project Rolt Award secured a few years ago. extra cost. In many respects this is now a intend to move landowner discussions managing the completion of the bridge. political debate rather than a technical one forward to the point that, wherever possible, Work is also being planned on Oatlands and we remain fully engaged in the agreement in principle has been reached Progress with the planning application to put Bridge near Kempsford – the one in the stakeholder meetings. with all involved. the canal back across Roundhouse Farm fields which currently crosses nothing. has stalled at the moment but we hope it will Badgers have been digging in and around its We would prefer for to take progress through the system shortly. When it structure and the damage is causing the canal option through to a detailed design does, we will want people to write in and concern. Advice is being sought from an in their short list of schemes but, even if they Phase 2 - Inglesham - South Cerney support it to ensure it does not get rejected ecologist with the IWA as to how to best don't, the whole matter is expected to go to on the back of some ill considered remedy the situation as badgers are a public consultation at the beginning of 2018. Work is resuming at Weymoor Bridge with observations or objections on the part of one protected species. Oatlands Bridge, like In the meantime, we will be talking to both WRG Camps over Easter preparing the way of the regulators who have steadfastly Rucks Bridge, may well have started off life Thames Water and many others to lobby for for some remedial work to the arch itself. resisted any opportunity to discuss our as a rough stone bridge which was later re- the canal option. Roger Hanbury, who used clad with tough engineering . to be the Chief Executive of The Waterways Trust and latterly worked for the Canal & River Trust prior to his recent retirement, is q Oatlands Bridge near Kempsford will soon receive attention from CCT volunteers (MG) Phase 3 helping us do this.

One group of our volunteers has regular We understand that Thames Water will be working parties at Coates and another visiting both Cirencester and with a works hard to keep the eastern section of the roadshow about their water resource plans. now well used towpath from Siddington Please look out for this if you live in these eastwards clear for visitors to enjoy. Work areas and go and tell them what you think. continues behind the scenes to try and solve the problems preventing the Coates area from reaching its potential. And Finally...

Water Transfer I started this piece talking about the need to plan projects well ahead and address a wide At the time of writing, the stated position is range of regulatory issues such as Planning that Thames Water prefer the pipeline option and Environmental Permit applications. We in a potential Severn - Thames water are sometimes limited in what we can do for transfer. The reasons given are that the want of additional people to help with the pipeline is less complex to operate and less planning of individual projects. expensive to build although the pumping costs would be higher. If these are things you feel you can volunteer for please make contact. We are pressing for a cost breakdown of the canal option as, until we see and understand The weather is improving and the evenings it, we can have little confidence that the cost are getting longer so why not go out and is reasonable. It is very easy to clock up a lot enjoy the canal – and then come back all of money doing things that aren't needed or motivated and keen to volunteer for lack imagination. something? 20 21 visiting Saul Junction Visitor 300 Club Draw Centre and viewing the recently Award for Bob by Clive Field on Members’ restored Junction Lock.

Cruise Steve has been in charge of the Manager Diana Edwards Edward Elgar since March 2016 CCT film maker Robert Paget received a well and before that he was a submariner deserved award at Stroud Community TV The 2017 300 Club draw took for 25 years. Awards at Lansdown Hall, Stroud, on place at Saul Junction aboard the Edward Saturday 18th March. Elgar. The boat was on its first outing in The total prize fund has increased this time 2017 and, as reported in the Spring Trow, to £1,200.00. First prize is now £720.00 and Robert’s Voices on the Towpath was judged had kindly been offered to the Cotswold was won by Mr J Deacon of South Cerney. to be the winner in the Best Community Canals Trust free of charge by English Second prize of £360.00 was won by Mr P E Project category. Holiday Cruises so that all profits could go Negus of and the third prize of towards the new CCT Trip Boat Fund. £120.00 was won by Mrs T Davies of Stroud Community TV Director Phillip Booth Stonehouse. commented “The Stroud Community TV good to see film-making alive and well in the Edward Elgar left on Awards event is a celebration of local talent, Stroud Valleys. It is a real honour to receive Friday, 31st March with 22 passengers. They The Three Hundred Club is the Trust's beauty, diversity, community, quirkiness an award when the quality of films was of had enjoyed a trip to Slimbridge and a lottery held every January, April, July and and more from the Five Valleys. The event such a high quality. I grew up in mooring at the boat graveyard on October. Only Trust members may is part of the Third Stroud Film Festival and with Dudbridge Lock at the bottom of the Saturday and a cruise to Sharpness and Saul participate in the 300 Club draw and they includes winning short films that allow local garden – and so I am a ‘Stroudie’. Amateur Junction on Sunday morning before returning can join at any time during the year. Annual filmmakers to share their thoughts and film making for me is a second hobby – to Gloucester Docks in the afternoon. subscription is £15 per stake and a member skills.” second to boating and canals. may hold up to four stakes. The draw was made by the captain of the Robert was presented with his Stroud “For me, the real stars on the night were Edward Elgar, Steve Whitby, ably assisted by Full details are on the Three Hundred Club Community TV Awards Coffee Mug and each of those who spoke with emotion and his right-hand woman, Jen Altham, during a page on the website. E-mail queries can be Certificate by Victoria Temple, News Editor enthusiasm in our film, some recalling their quiet time whilst all the passengers were directed to [email protected]. at Stroud Life. Robert commented, “It is childhood memories of the canal.”

300 Club Manager Diana Edwards, Jen Altham and Steve Whitby aboard the Edward Elgar at Saul Junction (MG) q

Read more about Stroud Community TV at See Bob’s film and many others on the CCT’s www.stroudcommunity.tv YouTube channel by clicking the YouTube link at www.cotswoldcanals.com

22 23 flowing water of the most accessible part of Upstream, the canal was more or less open I also started exploring the canals by . Discovering the the river. Eventually, as my methods water for as far as I could see. Downstream, I would discover that this was part of the Cotswold Canals - became a bit more advanced, I realised the the canal opened out again under the roving Thames & Severn Canal, not the trout made themselves scarce if I stayed in bridge, the tall, shading trees and the high Stroudwater as I had naturally presumed. A Personal View the same spot, so it became necessary to railway bridge, but it was obviously too by Jeremy Mayes explore further upriver. I made my way shallow for boats or fishing. As my interest steadily grew, I walked most upstream, occasionally casting a team of of the accessible towpath of the Thames & flies inexpertly and to no avail. The Time was now running out so I took the path Severn and Stroudwater Canals. overhanging trees and undergrowth from the roving bridge down, under the I suppose my first sight of the Thames & hindered my progress and my ability to cast railway arches, to the Frome and back to In 1977 I led a party of friends on a walk Severn Canal was from a train; I must but I kept on going. After some distance, where I had started from. from Stroud to Daneway. When we have been about four years old, travelling the river came to an abrupt end as its reached Brimscombe I was trying to point to London. A marvellous ribbon of water waters emerged through two sunken After that I made many more visits, fishing out where the main features of caught my attention. It was bordered with arches at the bottom of a large with friends. We often saw pike lurking in the Brimscombe Port had been when an reeds and rushes, probably water lilies too. embankment. shadows and there were always of elderly gentleman came out of the cottage I asked my mum what it was and she said roach that we could never quite catch. The next to the old salt warehouse. “Are you it was a canal. That’s just about all she told On the assumption that there must be more local boys used boat rods from Woolworths looking for the canal?” he said. He then me, but for a long time after that I river beyond the embankment, I scrambled to fish for pike; they used pear shaped lumps showed us an old postcard of Brimscombe believed it was called a “canowl” because up the steep slope to be met with the most of foil moulded over treble hooks. port and went on to tell us about how he of her London accent. I now realise this amazing and unexpected sight. In front of Surprisingly, they occasionally managed to used to work on the canal, how he worked stretch of water must have been the pound me was an expanse of canal, deep and clear catch pike by this method. on boats bringing coal from Staffordshire, above Beales Lock near The Bourne, with occasional clumps of bright green how the engine man at Brimscombe. starwort and darker curled pondweed. A On one visit some time later, we got talking would be pumping night and day to keep of large roach cruised calmly between to a local boy who told us we should try the canal in water and how the canals Some years later some friends brought some the waterweeds and dragonflies darted fishing at Bowbridge. He made it sound like would never be reopened. sticklebacks to school. They told me they overhead and all around. the best place ever. Deep and wide, with had caught them in the “Oakridge Canal”. plenty of fish which were easy to catch and It was thrilling and interesting to hear this They went fishing for tiddlers while their dad This was all too perfect; I expected it to be not overfished. first hand from a real boatman, it was a high was in the pub. When the teacher warned spoilt at any moment by a passing boat. I point in my discovery of these favourite them about dangers of playing near canals, listened for the chugging of a boat engine We headed upstream with high expectations. waterways but I do so hope he was wrong they reassured her that the canal was only a but, of course, none came, just the sound of When we reached the top of the infilled about it never being reopened. few inches deep. This seemed very strange distant traffic. bridge, we noticed a lot of cars parked along to me. the road. They had window stickers that said I turned my attention to the roach. I didn’t “Link Thames and Severn” or words to that Key to photographs My real discovery came when I was eleven expect the flies to be much use so I changed effect. Thank you to the following who have or twelve; I was getting keen on fishing and to a small hook baited with a worm. I flicked provided photographs for this magazine I tried my luck in the River Frome in Stroud, this into the middle of the canal and the Crossing the road, our hopes were Ken Burgin (KB) Canal & River Trust opposite the former Midland railway site. At roach were not interested, they didn’t immediately dashed. We found an empty David Irving Mike Gallagher (MG) first I didn’t venture very far, I was content exactly bolt, they just faded into the deeper, lock chamber with broken gates and beyond Andrew McKechnie (AM) David Pagett fishing for small trout in the clear, fast more shaded regions of the canal. that a newly emptied canal with hundreds of ramshorn snail shells that littered the So, back to exploring: I was on the edge of bare mud and a thin stream of water the aqueduct and the towpath was on the trickling down the middle. Muddy people opposite side of the canal. I needed to find a from the stickered cars were busy in the crossing so I turned left and found myself on canal and there seemed to be a large some very lumpy ground, covered in nettles dragline working in the distance. The canal and bindweed. enthusiasts had spoilt everything.

I quickly found out why no boats had come I would later change my opinion. My interest by. The open water of the canal dwindled to in the canal would become more important a narrow stream sandwiched between flat to me than the fishing. I would go on bike expanses of matted vegetation. I was able to rides to Daneway, Coates and Chalford. Even walk over the matted vegetation and jump further afield, to other canals at Coombe Hill the stream to gain the towpath side. and Oxenhall. 24 25 1941-2017 We had so many laughs and enjoyable times can be cut and sold for logs, but there's Lionel Lusty together, both in the Yard and especially News From The East plenty left for big crackly bonfires. In the An Appreciation by David Pagett A Personal Update from Volunteer whilst out on log deliveries, and he never had bird nesting season the focus is on keeping former leader of the Western Depot Andrew McKechnie a bad word for anybody. The principal reason back grass and nettles with strimmers and Logging Team for the demise of the Team was the mowers, or occasional repair jobs on paths. retirement of several key members – Lionel Siddington Locks, for example, look a lot included – but such was his genuine concern When I retired I looked, as I suspect many better since they have been receiving a for his colleagues’ welfare he was do, to do something a bit different involving couple or three visits a year from the team, instrumental in arranging regular lunches at a bit of activity and some fresh air. I have and last year an extended effort south of The Clothiers Arms in Stroud, so that we all been a Trust member and Trow subscriber Siddington, between the Churn crossing and have the opportunity to keep in touch. for years and canal volunteering appealed, Claymeadow Cutting, cleared one of the but as I live in Cirencester and most of the most remote and overgrown stretches, My fellow loggers and I feel privileged to have work is at the western end, an hour spent in almost untouched since the canal was met and worked alongside Lionel for so long. the car to do a morning's work is not best abandoned. His bonhomie and general all-round good use of volunteering time. Then one morning, bloke attitude will be sorely missed by us all. out for a walk on the towpath, I passed a Not the sharp end of canal restoration work party of volunteers cutting and burning perhaps, but it ticks some boxes for me: scrub. 'Now that's something I could do', I outdoor activity, clear progress and a bit of thought, and went straight home to sign up. banter over a mid-morning coffee. What Sadly, Lionel passed away in early February AGM Date Set Most of the work is indeed at the Western better way to spend a Monday morning? Oh after a short illness. The official notice for the Annual General end, but not all. and did I mention the crackly bonfires? Meeting will appear in the next Trow, but put I first met Lionel when he started this date in your diary now. There are in fact several groups, but I joined If you are interested in joining, go to the volunteering at the Trust’s Western Depot in a Monday morning work party that does website at www.cotswoldcanals.com and Eastington some six or seven years ago now. The AGM will be held on Saturday 7th maintenance work along the stretch between follow the link Get Involved. He was someone who couldn’t bear sitting October, 2017 in the Council Chamber at Siddington Locks and Latton Basin, aiming to around waiting for the action to start, so as Ebley Mill, Stroud starting at 10.30 am. keep it walkable and looking like a canal, and The Connect website enables you to register we on the Western Depot Logging Team were to prevent any further deterioration in the your volunteering interests, which will be renowned early starters it wasn’t too long structures - a kind of 'extreme gardening' forwarded to the appropriate Team Leaders. before the lure of the logs got to him. He really. For the Monday work party, select became a valued member of the Team almost Maintenance East. immediately and remained so right up until In the winter, that generally means cutting its demise towards the end of last year. back excessive growth of 'thug' varieties like If you don't have internet access, but would ivy and bramble along the towpath, or like to join the Monday work party, please Lionel was as regular and dependable as one clearing trees that have fallen or have rooted call Team Leader John Maxted on 07756 could ever wish of any volunteer. Walking TUESDAY THURSDAY & SATURDAY in the canal bed. We recover any wood that 974406. around was a bit tricky for Lionel before he 10am to 4pm had his hips done but he never let it get him down. He was great fun to work with, THAMES & SEVERN BUILDING L-R - Roger Broxton, John Maxted, constantly cheerful, always prepared to put UNIT 1 BRIMSCOMBE PORT The Siddington Flight of Locks on a misty winter morning (AM) Rob Towill, Rob Cranston (AM) q in the extra effort, always first to volunteer GL5 2QQ q for any ‘extra-curricular’ activities wherever and whenever he could. He seemed to No 64 Bus stops nearby possess unbounded energy that left some of us lagging way behind. Lionel could be Also for Sale: counted upon to do whatever was asked of DVDs, CDs, JIGSAWs, MAPs, Vinyl him, be it lifting heavy limbs, loading trailers, RECORDS & Framed PICTURES stacking logs etc. – but he was at his happiest once he got his hands on ‘his’ log splitter. All Proceeds to the Cotswold Canals Trust Head Office: Bell House, Wallbridge Lock, Lionel was an avid fan of steam fairs and bus Stroud, Gloucestershire, rallies, indeed of transport in general and he GL5 3JS 01453 752568. built up quite a collection of model vehicles Registered Charity No269721 over the years. 26 27 Mid-Summer CCT Calendar 2018 SUNDAY 25th June 2017 Available Now! Fundraising 3pm Member Concert Church of St Laurence, Stroud Discount by Laurence Bryant Tickets £10 on sale at Following a very successful fundraising Wallbridge and Saul Visitor Centres A message from Cotswold Outdoor concert for the Cotswold Canals Trust by (or by post from Laurence Bryant on 01453 890195). Male Voice Choir in 2014 we are In recognition of your valued custom, the repeating the event this summer. Our own Cotswold Canals Trust has negotiated a Cotswold Canals Singers will perform too. Dursley Male Voice Choir and the Cotswold special discount for you to use until 28 Feb Canals Trust are two very local organisations, 2018. Dursley Male Voice Choir was founded by a in many cases sharing the same members, group of enthusiastic local singers in 1978 which are coming together in June to deliver We are delighted to offer you 15% off (10% and has since grown to be one of the principal what promises to be a memorable for Cycle Surgery)* the full retail value male voice choirs of the region with up to 70 fundraising concert in aid of the canal available for use both in store and online. The 2017 Calendar was a sell-out despite a singers drawn from communities around restoration programme. last-minute reprint, with many disappointed Dursley and the wider Stroud district. The How to use your unique code: AF-COTSCT-M5 customers. choir performs at many venues around the The afternoon concert is being held in St UK and internationally. Memorable concerts Laurence’s Church in Stroud on the • In-store – please present this page or a Next year’s calendar is out NOW and we include those in south-west Ireland in 2015 25th June starting at 3 pm. Being a Sunday valid form of ID to obtain your discount. expect it to sell well through the summer and St George’s Hall in as well as afternoon, parking in the town will be free. season. To buy the calendar, please see the recent concerts at Colston Hall, Gloucester PIMMS, wine or soft drinks will be available • Online – register your address details at website www.cotswoldcanals.com or call in Cathedral and Cheltenham Town Hall. The for sale during the interval and a raffle is also www.cotswoldoutdoor.com or login. When at Wallbridge or Saul Visitor Centre. choir will tour Yorkshire in September singing planned. As well as being a very enjoyable ready to checkout, key in the code in the at Harrogate and in Ripon Cathedral. event this will be an important fundraising Promotional Code box (not case sensitive). £9.95 each incl P&P (£7.95 in person) opportunity for the Stroudwater Navigation All qualifying items will have the correct The choir has been under the musical Connected phase of the canal restoration. price structure applied to the order. direction of Barrie Cooper since 2003. Barrie Please buy your tickets early, invite your had his first piano lesson over 60 years ago family and friends and prepare to come along • Mail Order – please provide your address at Marling School in Stroud; he is a Licentiate for a memorable afternoon. details to the sales staff quoting the of the Royal Schools of Music. He has made Affiliation Code when ordering. numerous choral arrangements and Tickets are now on sale at £10 from the composed major works. Barrie has an Wallbridge and Saul Visitor Centres. They * Terms & Conditions: not to be used in outstanding record of success in can also be supplied by post for a small conjunction with any other offers or competitions, in particular at Cheltenham postage charge by ringing Laurence Bryant discounts. Festival for Performing Arts. on 01453 890195. Discounts also apply to other members of the group below.

15% Off WINTER SPORTS EQUIPMENT www.snowandrock.com

15% Off RUNNING EQUIPMENT www.runnersneed.com

10% Off CYCLING EQUIPMENT www.cyclesurgery.com 28 29 Thanks to Our Donors Talks: Meet the Lengthsmen ANDREW FRANKS from the last three months Clive and Jill Field to: Womens Group Introduced by Peter Best Book shop sales Barrs Court Probus B Shadbolt Stroud Rotary Club We are delighted that, as a result of my last A Merryweather Oakridge WI article, we have recruited a full set of Anonymous CAF donations Dumbleton WI lengthsmen and have a reserve list. Thank Stroud Vintage Transport and Engine Club Upton St Leonards History Group you so much to all of you who have got in Mr David Stewart Trust touch. The team are now hard at work, Mrs Anne Reed East Vale Canal Group getting to know their lengths and reporting Mr D Edwards Minchinhampton Local History Group in observations and changes. We have nine Miss A Woolacott Trinity Henleaze Ladies Guild lengths on Phase 1A and currently two on IWA raffle proceeds Edward Elgar Talks Phase 1B. These cover basically those parts Wildlife Walk of the canal in water, but we may well But I never imagined it could happen – there Zanetti Mauro Clive Field and Charles Denny to: expand the scheme to cover less restored was no industry requiring canals anymore Anthony Jakeman Dursley WI parts of the canal. and I had no idea how popular leisure Mr P. Gadsden boating would become. So when my wife and Lois Francis Each length is around one kilometre long and I moved to Newtown, Stonehouse three A Henry Paul Joyce to: we provide each lengthsman with a detailed years ago to live alongside that very same Christopher Gibson Workers Education Association spreadsheet of the assets they will find. These canal and I heard of the activity underway to Saul Junction Boat Owner's Club Slough and Windsor Railway Soc frequently change as new items are added, restore it, I was thrilled to get involved. Rob Attridge Bracknell Model Railway Group with the new finger posts being a good example. Currently, all of the lengthsmen In the past year I have acquired my TUG report findings to Jon Pontefract and myself, BOAT licence, working in Tony Jones’ team, but soon we hope to have a CCT maintenance and I have qualified to operate the CLAM- A Warm Welcome to the following New Members team leader who will share the load with Jon. SHELL DREDGER as well as becoming Incidentally, a whole load of new maintenance Lengthsman for the stretch of canal that Chris Lythgoe, Cheltenham Tom Falcon, Greenford Jonathan Cullum, Stroud equipment has recently been purchased by passes our house. I “patrol” the canal from Brendon & Michelle King, Stroud Andrew Mustoe, Kevin Cooke, Thornbury SVCC for the specific use of the respective Newtown Lock, past Bonds Mill to the Ocean Christine Mengarelli, Stroud Alan Mayo, Christopher Law, Box Stuart Butler, Stroud David & Claire McKirgan, Stroud Paul Waldron, Kemble maintenance teams. These have been divided Railway Bridge. Peter Carter, Stroud Jennifer & Steve Davis, Ross-On-Wye Chris Clark, up, with SDC volunteers taking on Wallbridge Bernard O'Donohue, Stonehouse Anthony Lawrence, Stroud John Hamblin, Tuffley Lower to Bourne Lock, whilst CCT volunteers On the whole I find people love and respect William Blacker-Weare, Stroud Trevor Ford, Stroud Helen Moinet, Stroud are looking after Oldbury Brook in the west to the canal and other users – there is probably Tracy & Roger Spiers, Stroud David Gray, Swindon Michael Beer, Cheltenham Wallbridge Lower in the East. less litter than might be expected (but I do Sandra Trow, Yate Rob Tuttle, Cirencester Peter Hogg, Dumbleton wish those that drop litter would do just that, Jill Bower & Martin Beesley, Derby Ian Harding, Dover Rosemary Canning, Whitminster Now to introduce our latest lengthsman: rather than throwing it into the canal or into David & Elizabeth Edwards, Yate Gilliana Scozzesi Jackie Griffiths & Andy Edwards, Andrew Franks looks after the length from the hedgerows. I can pick it up from the Julien & Alice Standing, Stroud Mauro Zanetti Jim Farnworth, Wotton-Under-Edge Carrie & Graham Hitchcock, Stroud Iris Magalotti Jonathan Price & Joanne Illsley, Stroud Newtown Lock to the Ocean Railway bridge. path so much more easily!) Most dog- Alan & Hazel Tyson, Niobe Wells, Dursley Clive Winstanley, Gloucester This stretch is known as Phase 1B 6 Bonds owners along this length pick up their “do- Mike & Margaret Groom, Uley Anthony Soloman, Stroud Rosemary Sims, Stroud Mill, and forms the last length in that part of do’s”, but there are the irritating minority Roger Collings, Shurdington Wanda & Adrian Hutchings, Kate & Robert Pringle, Stroud the canal. Andrew writes: who don’t! Andy Melton, Lucy Seymour Smith & Richard Stokes, Coaley Francis Carruthers, Cirencester Guy Picton-Phillips & Eva Saldana-Iglesias, Stroud Tom Hards, Stroud Ash Memory, Gloucester I grew up boating on the Thames in our Cyclists would do well to give a gentle ring on Michael Pulley, Truro Paul Burgess, Cheltenham Pauline Hill, Stroud family’s very basic motor cruiser. It was their bells to give warning that they Mark & Jenni Judson, Stroud William & Louise Keys, Worcester John Thornton, Cheltenham always a great adventure heading from our approach as some (again the minority) arrive David Thackray, Stroud Roger & Tracy Spiers, Stroud Martin & Christine Large, Stroud mooring on Horseshoe Island, , at one’s shoulder very silently, very suddenly Duncan Robertshaw, Downend Ricky Spring, Nailsworth Philip & Sue Harvey, Stroud Andrew Pride, Stroud Rob Howard, Stroud Claire Hale & Jill Garbitt, Stroud upstream to Lechlade. At Lechlade we were and very fast. Laura Pullin, Frampton-On-Severn Robert Dibley & Amanda Baker Dibley, Stroud Martin & Julia Lewis, Frampton aware that there had, historically, been a My biggest job throughout the summer Alan Reay, John & Mary Abell, Barnwood Anthony & Louise Rogers, Bristol canal connecting the Thames to the Severn. months is trying to keep the brambles at bay Julian Hudson, Stroud Geoffrey Coleman, Cinderford Susan Dale-Smith, Stroud I was upset that the canal was no longer as they try to stretch across the tow-path passable – it would have been so exciting to and attack unsuspecting walkers and cyclists cruise all the way to Gloucester - if only it (they grow so fast!). Welcome to the new people who registered on Connect since the last Trow could be re-opened! 30 31 A visit was organized on 1st March for a Sharing Best Practice delegation of 15 from the . They Stroud Raft & Duck Race by Sarah Brice were welcomed at Ebley Mill (with the Dutch by Shelley Anderson Canal & River Trust flag flying) by members of Stroud District Council, Cotswold Canals Trust, Wilts & Berks SUNDAY 27 AUGUST 2017 It’s surprising how good news travels! Canal Trust and CRT representatives. Presentations were given on the restoration The Stroud Raft Race is back for the second After a visit by the Brabant European of the Cotswold Canals and the impact it is year running but with a few surprises! Development Officer to , research having to the economy and well being of led her to the Help for Heroes Project funded Stroud and the valuable contribution made by Firstly, this year the raft race will be held as through Players of the Peoples Postcode volunteers. The Heritage Heroes Project was part of the Stroud Fringe Festival, adding a Lottery being carried out in partnership with presented and outcomes for Veterans as well waterways dimension to this unique and The Cotswold Canals Trust and the Canal & as the benefits had by establishing various popular event. Secondly, the organisers have River Trust (CRT). Cabinet members were partnerships. Interestingly we all learnt the plotted to include some extra challenges. aware of a Dutch initiative called Veterans in Peoples Postcode Lottery had its origins in the The title might give it away. Nature; its ambition, to help Veterans by Netherlands some 20 years ago. developing meaningful outdoor projects so The Raft Race was resurrected last year by that they can contribute to society, but also In the afternoon a boat trip down the locks, Luciano and Sarah Magalotti, to continue a get them back into civilian life. Johan van hosted by Clive and Jill Field, saw our guests tradition begun in 1985 for having fun on Hout, who is responsible for Water and entertained all the way to Ryeford. En route Thames & Severn Canal. Each year sees Nature on a Regional Level and works closely they also met with volunteers restoring the more restoration milestones completed, by with Water boards and the National Parks, wharf. Alan Jones gave an inspiring talk on volunteers of the Cotswold Canals Trust was extremely interested in how the why he volunteers as did another volunteer (CCT) and Stroud District Council, and more The Door was established in 1991 and offers Heritage Heroes Project was developed, clearing reeds out of the canal. The visit was reason to celebrate the opening of the support for the benefit of all young people organized, financed, and importantly the a great success and everyone left smiling. A waterways and towpaths to the Five Valleys and their families, including their Youthwork benefits to veterans. letter of gratitude was received from the and beyond. team, community café, a young parents’ minister a few days later saying how much group (aDOORables), Girls Group and On the Cotswold Canals the project has everyone had enjoyed the visit and learned The enthusiasm and ingenuity of last year’s ‘detached’ on the streets work. funded improvements to Ryeford Causeway so much. race participants, sponsorship and raffle banks, towpath and the wharf that has been prizes by local businesses, on-the-water So, start designing your rafts and get your greatly improved. Four Help For Heroes So well done everyone for making this visit support by Stroud Valley Canoe Club, and entries in for more fun on the water as part veterans attended a six week course and so successful. The delegates were amazed event volunteers, made the 2016 race day a of the Stroud Fringe Festival while raising gained enormously from the interaction of the at the work achieved on the small section of great success. This year, everyone who funds for the CCT and The Door! Entry existing volunteers and gained new skills to canal that they visited and inspired with the participates will be raising money for the CCT details at www.stroudraftrace.org. There will help them progress into full time employment. vision for the future. and Christian-based The Door youth project. be trophies!

The delegation with hosts on Ryeford swing bridge (MG)

www.stroudraftrace.org

32 33 SVTEC Donation Weekday Evenings Boats On The Move by Rob Burgon What’s On

The Cotswold Canals Trust was one of 20 Eastern End Group Meetings GOLIATH charities to benefit from the proceeds of the Words & Photos by Dave Irving 42nd Gloucestershire Vintage and Country These take place every third Wednesday Extravaganza, organised by the Stroud of the month (except December). This is a The day was supposed to be a walk over the Vintage Transport and Engine Club (SVTEC). social gathering, often featuring guest Saul to Fromebridge section of the speakers at The Trout, Lechlade close to St Stroudwater Navigation Connected project At an event held at Fromebridge Mill, John’s Lock. (Phase 1B) but it wasn’t to be. Pumping out Goliath p Whitminster, in January, the SVTEC presented a cheque for £1000 to Jim White Stroudwater Sessions The phone call said ‘I’ve heard Goliath has and Rob Burgon from the CCT towards the sunk – please could you check it out?’. Thirty purchase of a new trip boat. These events take place on the third Tuesday minutes later, it was confirmed – Goliath’s of February, May, September and November. stern was on the bottom of the canal and her SVTEC organises an annual steam and Venue is the Fromebridge Inn at Whitminster engine compartment was flooded. Prompt vintage rally, the first event being held in on the A38. Each event features a speaker or action by the tug team meant she was 1975 and it is now the largest show of its other attraction. Watch for announcements. quickly pumped out and floating again. More kind still run entirely by volunteers. action was clearly needed: how do we stop her flooding again; how can we find and fix The 2017 show will be held at South Cerney the leak; what damage has been done and Airfield, near Cirencester, from Friday, 4th what needs to be repaired? August until Sunday, 6th August. For more Stroudwater News information, please visit the show's website, We’re lucky we have the unusual double lock from Mike Handford www.glosvintageextravaganza.co.uk at Ryeford, because in exceptional Safe and secure in the Lock p circumstances (and this was certainly Seen from below during the lift q exceptional!) the centre gates can be left Could I draw CCT members’ attention to two open, allowing craft to be grounded in the top developments which could have long term chamber. After bow-hauling her to the locks, implications for restoration? she was grounded, secure and accessible with care. Over the following days, the tug First, Stroud District Council has accepted team finished emptying the water from the the recommendations of the committee engine compartment, removed various planning the future of Stroud (in which I equipment normally stored there, and serve) that the former in Stroud cleaned it out to find the leak. Careful filling should not be built on. This opens the and emptying of the lock meant the leak was prospects of long tem restoration for visiting eventually found on the chine (where the flat boats and will encourage owners/hirers to bottom meets the sides of the hull). p Martyn Slater (SVTEC Chairman) spend money in Stroud. L-R Jim White (CCT Chairman) Short-term repairs by welding in the lock Rob Burgon (CCT Ops Manager, Second, members will be aware of the chamber, combined with a traditional Making good progress on the repairs q Western Trip Boats) restoration of Junction Lock at the link to the boatman’s cement patch, meant Goliath John Keedwell (SVTEC Show Manager) Berkeley Canal. Diana Wells who owns the could be refloated and the lock put back into land on which the former Framilode Basin service. At the same time the engine was stands is very anxious to see it rewatered. drained of water, the oil changed and Copy Date If the Canal & River Trust chose to rebuild electrics cleaned up – and she started! If you have a CCT event to announce or the line from Junction Lock to Framilode that publicise, please advise David Jowett by would be a very valuable mooring repaying But more was clearly required. On the same copy date of 5th Jan, Apr, Jul, Oct. the cost of that restoration. day that the CCT boat Annette II and private narrow boat Intrigue were launched, Goliath Please note that copy date is the FINAL So there is lots to do after a successful HLF was lifted from the canal to allow work to date for receipt of dates and copy application in November. continue on dry land. The hull was thoroughly 34 35 cleaned and inspected, and found to be in INTRIGUE generally excellent condition. The decision was made to weld all the chine seams, to On the same day as Goliath was craned into repaint the hull & superstructure inside and the canal, Polly & Neil Fothergill brought out, and to take the opportunity to make their 42 foot Intrigue to the various other repairs that are a lot easier out Stroudwater. We reckon this makes it the of the water than in. At the time of writing, first full size private boat since the canal was work is progressing well, she is looking much restored. smarter and the hull and engine should be good for another 20-odd years. The boat will be moored at Stonehouse and the owners hope to cruise the navigable Intrique is lowered into the Stroudwater (MG) p We hope she’ll be back in the water and length regularly until the link is made to the Annette II takes her turn to be launched (MG) p helping the towpath and dredging crews again main waterways system. by the time you receive this copy of The Trow, but it looks like we’ll miss the publication deadline for the final photos – hopefully we ANNETTE II can include them in the next issue. Volunteers at the Western Depot in Easington And that walk from Saul to Fromebridge? have put in many hours to completely Yes, I did it a little later: it’s a very pleasant refurbish an old British Waterways work boat. and easy walk, with refreshments at both ends, and does a great job of illustrating how Annette II, was launched on the 8th March the Stroudwater will link to the rest of the when the other boat movements were taking canal network - I recommend it. And I’m place. It will be used as a hydraulic power looking forward to the day when Goliath will support vessel but it also performs another travel from Stroud to Saul by water. function as a very effective second tug. p Intrique ready to set off for Stonehouse (MG) Preparing to set off for Ebley (MG) p q The launch team with Intrique’s crew, SDC & CCT representatives and press Annette II already at work in Stonehouse manoeuvring dredger Augustus Gloop (MG) q

36 37 Directors Dates

Chairman CHIEF EXECUTIVE MAY Engineering Director KEN BURGIN Tue 16 Stroudwater Sessions - see page 34 JIM WHITE 01453 827414 Wed 17 Eastern End Meeting see page 34 01453 873733/07946 536302 [email protected] W/E 20/21 A Slice Through Time - see page 5 [email protected] Director & Trustee JUNE BOB AMBURY Vice Chairman & Convener Wed 21 Eastern End Meeting see page 34 01452 419338/07410 982828 Stroudwater Navigation Connected W/E 24/25 CCT @ Braunston Historic Boat Show (Phase 1B) Funding Bid [email protected] Sun 25 Fundraising Concert - see page 28 VAL KIRBY 01453 753762 [email protected] Director & Trustee SHELLEY ANDERSON 07538 037010 JULY Wed 19 Eastern End Meeting see page 34 Vice Chairman [email protected] Finance Director -1B HLF Bid JOHN NEWTON 01452 741899 Director & Trustee AUGUST [email protected] PETER BEST Wed 16 Eastern End Meeting see page 34 07703 200442 [email protected] SEPTEMBER Honorary Treasurer Tue 19 Stroudwater Sessions - see page 34 CHRIS LAMBERT Director & Trustee Wed 20 Eastern End Meeting see page 34 01453 544196/07973 839693 LOIS FRANCIS 01453 834012 [email protected] [email protected]

Company Secretary Director & Trustee The above dates are those confirmed at Copy Date. JACK TELLING ALAN JONES Watch out for further dates as they are announced 01453 825709/07852 540249 01453 752396/07514 513627 on the website www.cotswoldcanals.com [email protected] [email protected]

For regular news including Dates for your Diary, sign Director & Trustee up for E News www.cctmembers-newsletter.co.uk Development Director ROBIN PAYNE 01453 890256 Eastern Thames & Severn [email protected] JOHN ALLAN 07798 684092 [email protected] Director & Trustee STEVE PICKOVER 07905 596006 Construction Operations Director [email protected] Health & Safety Director Work Party MIKE HYND Director & Trustee 01452 713913/07805 405580 PATRICK SWIFT 01453 885231 Contacts [email protected] [email protected]

Volunteer Website: www.cct.teamconnect.org.uk Contacts Construction Action Group Meetings Membership / Change of Address Photographer MIKE HYND 01452 713913 MIKE GALLAGHER 07940 130611 CCT OFFICE 01453 752568 Monthly at Brimscombe Port [email protected] [email protected] 07914 265460 The Trow Editor Connect Administrator Eastern Depot [email protected] DAVID JOWETT 01453 755535 DENNIS CLARKE [email protected] [email protected]

Trading Company Chairman Press Cuttings Western Depot 01453 822119 Saul & Stroud Visitor Centres Manager if you have items of interest, please phone [email protected] Website & Marketing Manager JILL MERRIOTT-WHITE 01453 872999 CLIVE FIELD 01242 529972/07798 551288 Siddington/South Cerney/ “Gang of Four” Work [email protected] Skype: clive_field Inglesham Trip Boat Charters Manager JOHN MAXTED 01285 861011/07756 974406 PLEASE CALL 07787 485294 [email protected] Visitor Centre, Wallbridge Lock, [email protected] Stroud, GL5 3JS Stroud to Chalford Work Parties Mon-Fri 10am -1pm Sat 10am - 4pm Saul/Ebley Trip Boat Ops Manager STEVE PICKOVER - details under Directors 07582 286636 ROB BURGON 07860 329477 [email protected] Cotswold Canals Partnership Visitor Centre, Saul Junction Saul & Ebley Trip Boat Charters Volunteer Co-ordinator GL2 7LA JON PONTEFRACT SUMMER: Sat 12:30 - 5:00pm Sun 10am - 5pm JUDE LINDLEY/JUSTINE HOPKINS 01666 577031/07986 351412 WINTER: Sat & Sun 12:30 - 4:00pm (CCT Office) 01453 752568 07854 026504 [email protected] [email protected]