Issue 75 Autumn 2012

The journal of the Russell Newbery Engine Owners & Enthusiasts Club

16 page Thames Pageant bumper issue Radio Ga Ga! Stratford Festival or not Up the Avon Rally 2013 Spring Away Day Autumn Gathering

www.rnregister.org.uk WHO’S WHO CONTENTS Front cover: Autumn sunshine at Alvecote. [Andrew Laycock]

Back cover: in the deep mid winter. Will be alive with RNs and Nationals this coming summer. [Andrew Laycock]

3 CHAIRMAN’S CHAT RUSSELL NEWBERY REGISTER LTD FROM THE EDITOR

President: Dr Ian McKim Thompson 4 MEMBERSHIP Vice Presidents: Lady Carol Stamp, Mrs Susan Gibbs, David Thirlby, David Kay Phillips, Allister Denyer, Graham RALLY NEWS Pearson Web site: www.rnregister.org.uk 5 RNR “AWAY DAY” The Russell Newbery Register is a non profit distributing Ian McKim Thompson reports on the first non-boating company limited by guarantee. event Founded: 1994 Registered in England No: 346943 Officers: 6 STRATFORD RIVER FESTIVAL Chairman: Norman C Mitchell RNR members help make the news with a splash! t: 01452 415420 [email protected] Secretary: Kevin McNiff 7 UP THE AVON m: 07866 424988 [email protected] Andrew Laycock explores the Avon above Stratford Administration (membership, finance): Rob Davies 55 Noddington Lane, Whittington, Lichfield, Staffs. WS14 8 SECOND AUTUMN GATHERING 9PA At Alvecote — but with sunshine! t/f: 01543 432079 m: 07801 842337 [email protected] 9 WORK PARTY REPORT Newsletter Editor: Kevin McNiff [email protected] Newsletter Production: Andrew Laycock m: 07870 294580 10 THAMES JUBILEE PAGEANT Administration (merchandise): Neil Mason Norman Woolley reports Hillcrest, Chapel Lane, Westhumble, Surrey. RH5 6AH t: 01306 889073 [email protected] 11 A MAMMOTH WALK FOR CANCER Rally Organiser: Kevin McNiff [email protected] Wendy Grattan’s brother tells his story Webmaster: Andrew Laycock [email protected] 12 RADIO RN Rob Davies tells all RUSSELL NEWBERY REGISTER PROPERTY LTD 13 RN BLOG BLAH BLAH The Archive — a start A non profit distributing company limited by guarantee Founded 2004 Registered in England No: 5316384 14 STRATFORD OR BUST Directors: Stephen Burt, Clive Henderson, Jenny le Blique. David & Jane Brixey explain 15 CHARITABLE DONATIONS

Unless otherwise noted, Copyright © Russell Newbery Register, 2012

Stop Press — Rally 2013 The 2013 Rally will be held at Stoke Bruerne RN DIESEL ENGINE COMPANY from 6th to 9th June 2013. Proprietors: Dave Bixter (m:07812 039110) Deborah Bixter (m: 07966 403132) Showroom: RN House, The Locks, Hillmorton, Rugby, Further details and booking form will be in the Warwickshire, CV21 4PP t:01788 578661 Winter Newsletter due out in February. Engineering workshop: 4 Oak House, Royal Oak Way North, Royal Oak Industrial Estate, NN11 8PQ t: 01327 700023 Next edition Email: [email protected] Web site: www.russellnewbery.com Field Engineers: Ian Crompton m: 07831 841108 All contributions for the Winter Richard Milligan m:07973 826260 2012/2013 edition will be gratefully received. Do not worry about format — in true RN fashion the editorial team can cope with [almost] anything!

Copy deadline is 12th January 2013 Corporate Member 2 RNR Newsletter : Autumn 2012 Chairman’s Chat The saga of the Chairman’s cruising continues. We made it back to Great Haywood and stayed for their splendid Hog Roast but the superb food assisted Pauline in diagnosing a gall bladder problem. She had four days in Stafford Hospital and came out on a totally fat free diet! Still we got on our way to Middlewich and across to Barbridge. We worked our way down the Shroppie calling at Wheaton Aston to meet up with John Dudley and Keith Sarsby; they were due down the Gayton Arm back onto the . We went from Autherley back to Great Haywood and off onto the Coventry along with John and Keith. We made a brief stop at Alvecote to get involved in their gathering of heritage boats and a demonstration of how not to boat by a pair of hotel boats. The working boats were splendid to watch and the illuminated boat parade spectacular, RNR could have a go at that if we could stay up late enough! our flat and I left the boat until it stopped raining at around Ken and Mary Nelson were waiting at Bugbrooke so Ken one pm on the Monday; then I quickly returned to Saul and I wheeled them down the Arm to Marina amidst lousy weather and back to the flat to reflect beat a 1 month stoppage for lime mortar works on some of on the great trip we enjoyed. the locks. Pauline has, since our journey, seen her surgeon and had Following a visit to Stoke Bruerne, the significance of that her gall bladder removed and has recovered from the fruit, name will be evident later, we cruised back to Great chicken and veg. total fat free diet she grew to hate Haywood and set off down the Staffs and Worcs to onboard. I am pleased to report she is recovering rather Stourport. How lucky we were the Severn was down at a well. reasonable level and we locked out on Saturday morning. A good run down found us at Upton-on-Severn for the night Now when is it Kevin wants more rambling for the next so we were up early and off to Gloucester. At the Upper edition? Parting it began to rain and it poured all the way into Gloucester Docks. In fact it soaked us unloading outside From The Editor Welcome to the Autumn Newsletter. They say The really bad weather has caused the first time flies when you’re having fun and I think major headache for CRT near Dutton on the that, despite the wash out year, our members T&M; let’s hope they overcome this in time for seem to have made the best of a bad job. And a next season. That said, I am impressed with 16 page edition is the result! the way they have worked with Peel Ports to assist those stuck to make passage via the It’s been a busy season for sure and diverse in Manchester Ship Canal to get around the so many ways: The Jubilee Pageant, our own breach. Maybe more of this openness and rally at Alvecote, the Historical Gathering at cooperation in the years to come? , the Stratford River Festival, Northwich, Alvecote Historical Gathering, RNR is also pleased to have been in the “right “Alvecote Revisited” with our second autumn place at the right time” when Rob & Helen gathering; Parkhead and “Stourbridge 50” Davies with became radio stars have all seen RN boats in attendance. Read for a week on Derby local radio! on to see just how prominent some of our members have been in one particular event! As we all bed down for the winter, our thoughts turn to 2013 and maybe a better weather year For me, I also enjoyed the chance of meeting for boating? Stoke Bruerne will be the site for members of the RN family throughout the the 2013 rally. Details in February. In the season and we did have an “unofficial DM3 meantime I wish you all the compliments of rally” at Coole Pilate on the Shroppie where the festive season and a happy New Year. Dave Martin, Norman Mitchell and I Remember that Neil has merchandise for sale – compared the sounds of our respective engines. just for Christmas – so check out the latest They do sound different! offers!

RNR Newsletter : Autumn 2012 3 Membership Matters Although we have six new members join since the last Issue, Julian & Lynne Knapp, Stourport on Severn. NB Persia. net growth is slowing down as folk who purchase an existing member’s boat go into ‘roundtoit’ mode when it Keith Sarsby, Norwich. No boat or engine. comes to sending the form to me. Hopefully my patience will be rewarded – sooner or later! Steve Haynes, Caddington, Luton. NB Dacre.

A very warm welcome to the RN ‘family’ to:

Paul Wilson, Ellesmere Port. No boat just a 1952 D3.

Gordon Nutt, Wolverhampton. No boat or engine.

Les Harrison, Northampton. No boat, single paraffin engine no: 559.

Rally News Firstly, with great reluctance, plans to stage the 2013 at amount to use their venue and there is a limit of only 100 Three Mills [and any other future rallies in ] have people that can be in the building due to fire regulations. now been dropped. The bottom line is simply down to Clearly these numbers are not justifiable. Individual accommodation costs and availability of suitably sized members may need to take out EA Gold Licences, equip rooms. While this is now history, I think members should the boat with VHF radio and lifejackets to venture onto and know why we have arrived at this decision. up the Thames to Teddington or .

For some time now, the success of past rallies has Similar locations in Dockside – West India Dock where the increased the numbers of boats attending. This has in turn pageant boats were assembled and West India Quay, begun to limit the venues that can accommodate an home to the Museum of London also attracted equally average of 50-55 boats and up to 110-120 people in astronomical fees - £1500 or so to use the dock facilities comfort! In the Midlands and North, there are suitable including locking to/from the tideway. The museum didn’t locations that we have used to great effect; been made even send their costs on to us – we must have not looked welcome and in most cases spoilt rotten with facilities at a the part! [well it is Canary Wharf, mate!!] very attractive cost. But.... When I went to London in October, I met with our Steve Burt who was a key facilitator in the 2001 Three Mills Rally I am pleased to announce that the 2013 Rally will be at having extensive contacts with local boating organisations, Stoke Bruerne from 6th-9th June 2013. Through the notably the St Pancras Cruising Club, who helped make the auspices of the HNBC via Norman Mitchell, David Lowe RNR rally a big success with a tideway cruise. We visited and Friends of , plans are now going Three Mills, the Miller’s House, and contacted the 3 Mills ahead. More information will be available in the Winter Studios where the 2001 rally used rehearsal rooms. At that Newsletter and entry forms will also be included. time the cost of hiring the rooms were no more than £250 but we were quoted £2400 inc VAT for the same facilities; the Miller’s House have finally come up with a very similar

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4 RNR Newsletter : Autumn 2012 The First RNR non boating outing, Spring 2012 I am delighted to report that our event to North Wales was days) and the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways. a success. The first of the promised non rally transport Superbly clear and detailed, John produced these for us at events took place last April when 31 members and friends a standard worthy of an academic thesis. And to crown it all indicated that they would be interested in joining me for a he travelled with us all the way to answer questions. What re-enactment of the Grand Circular Tour of the L.M.S. a bonus! Company in October 1923 – tickets 3rd Class from Rhyl 9/2d or Prestatyn 9/8d. Railway anoraks, rucksack slingers Betty had organised reserved seats, but the group found and sandal wearers will know that the great amalgamations more than ample room and refreshment facilities, proper took place in 1923 forming the Great Western Railway, the beer and magnificent scenery. Very comfortable carriages London Midland and Scottish, the London North Eastern pulled by steam engines on the 38 miles of spectacular and Southern Railway Companies. Our route was a replica scenery found on the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland make of the L.M.S. celebratory event. this a memorable trip, arguably the most spectacular railway journey in the U.K. Interestingly the engines are again coal fired (diesel is expensive) which with the hot oil and steam really make the locos smell “proper”.

The group gather at Llandudno Junction.

Waiting at a passing loop on the Welsh Highland Railway. Immediately prior to the event I had been fitted with full knee replacements, the originals being worn out by cross country running, butty hauling and lugging coal and logs The plan for future events is to organise trips which the around. We were very fortunate in having Betty Dobbs to average punter would find difficult and troublesome to organise the tickets, admin and booking arrangements and organise. A trip with more than one centre and interest and the group thanked her profusely for her help without which I can tell you that I have such plans based on Dudley, the event could not have taken place. We were doubly Welshpool, Coventry, Aberystwyth, Peterborough and the fortunate in having Mr. John Miller with us who carried out Peak District. One such event per year probably in the the original research on behalf of the Country’s leading Spring is my plan, so watch out for our next trip!** academic transport group, the Railway & Canal Historical Society. John with his encyclopedic knowledge is current West Midlands chairman of the R.C.H.S. as well as being a professional railwayman. John produced for us a set of Ian is currently looking into a visit to Coventry in April. It is plans and maps incredibly detailed and interesting covering hoped to visit the canal basin and motor museum. not only the route of the Grand Tour, Railways of North Wales, details of all the stations and branches with their More details will be available in the Winter newsletter due historic dates, as well as detailed plans of the Llandudno out in February. Ed. Junction – Blaenau Ffestiniog route (run by Arriva these For Sale

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RNR Newsletter : Autumn 2012 5 RN make a big “splash” at Stratford River Festival Ian Oliver recaps on a busy weekend RN were well to the fore at another highly successful river By the time Dreamcatcher was finally moored up safely the festival. Steve Burt gave a brief report in the summer various rescue actions had dragged the mooring buoy with newsletter; sorry Steve you did miss one or two members. its concrete block and we were left pointing 20° Lapwing was moored in the Bancroft Basin with mechanical downstream. Out came the hammers as we all re-sited our problems, which were sorted out by Richard Milligan. Ac- companied on the river by, Antares, Kyle, Lothorlien, Brasso, Revilo, Buffalo, Dreamcatcher and not forgetting May.

Revilo was selected to be one of two boats moored to the concrete block, positioned by the organisers in midstream. With two shorter boats breasted to and upstream of Revilo, and a further eight boats breasted downstream. Once in position we were facing at about 45° upstream, stern on to the bank. We were all getting along fine together introducing ourselves and doing what boaters do, talking engines and toilets and the like.

pins. On the way to Stratford Bob Scott had detected a problem with his engine, so over the weekend Richard Milligan replaced a cylinder head gasket on Lothorlien.

On the Monday Kyle accompanied by Brasso with an extended crew on board set out to go up stream as far as was navigable to Alveston in order to keep the navigation open. Whilst attempting to turn at the weir Bob Scott fell off Kyle into river; by time he was recovered from the water Bob was shivering with cold and transferred onto Brasso to get warmed up. The two ladies on board Beryl and Wendy suggested he took a shower, Bob having been in the river on his own suggested one of them should join him. We are led to understand his kind offer was rejected. Whilst on That was until Dreamcatcher arrived! Whose task was to board Brasso he also ate Tony Grattan’s breakfast which moor upstream of our boated raft, side on to the bank to went down very well with Bob, but not so with Tony. Later allow Wendy easier access to and from the boat, following in the day he was presented with his now inflated life jacket her fall prior to the RN rally. There was by this time quite a by the hard working Ian Fletcher who had done an excellent flow on the river and Dreamcatcher was attempting to turn job as the festival harbour master. Following his involuntary upstream at what was probably the narrowest section. To swim it has been suggested henceforth he is to be known both the casual onlookers as well as the numerous experts as “Bobbin Scott”. watching from the bank it soon became obvious by the increasing engine noise that Dreamcatcher was struggling On Tuesday Earl of Emsworth breasted up to Cactus with to make the turn. its single cylinder Bolinder and set off downstream. On attempting to shoot the bridge at Bidford still breasted up The steerer ‘Tony’ dropped into neutral with a look of they became firmly wedged under the arch and had to be resignation, although some thought it looked more like pulled off by tractor some time later [It is getting boring now! panic, as the boat began to side slip downstream. Tony was Ed]. All in all, a very interesting weekend for RN members, hoping he would drift down stream past our rafted up flotilla, with the 95 boats present being the main attraction for sadly to no avail. drawing in the general public.

At this point he was be to congratulated on his RN pedigree. The first boat he hit was Revilo which drove Dreamcatcher Footnote: Brian Jarret sent this photo, suggesting Bob renames backwards diagonally across the river. The second boat he his boat. [I guess he must have felt upstaged by not falling in hit was Buffalo where he came to rest with the stern end himself. Ed.] firmly wedged on the bottom of the opposite bank, leaving Dreamcatcher at right angles to the bank. Try as we might we could not pull him off by rope so the Earl of Emsworth left his mooring hooked up to the stern of Dreamcatcher but it would not budge, eventually one of the trip boats literally snatched him off at the second attempt. [Pulling RN boats out of trouble is certainly on the up! Ed]

6 RNR Newsletter : Autumn 2012 Up the Avon One disadvantage of having a mooring in the same part of the country for over 20 years and not yet being retired is that the opportunities to explore previously unvisited waterways is limited. However, this year I managed two stretches of “new” water within a week. One of these was the Droitwich canals, a most delightful and interesting section but which others have already documented.

The other stretch was much shorter and much closer to my home mooring — the Avon above Stratford to Alveston Weir. Actually I had navigated most of this in 1989 on an Alvechurch hire boat, but we failed to reach the weir. I now know why.

The section of the Avon between Warwick and Stratford is Plenty of room to turn a 40foot boat. The left hand end of the probably one of the most picturesque. It certainly is one of weir is under the trees. [Nick Oliver] the least accessible, with no footpaths following the course of the river and only a few public access points. christened this the “Barge Cutter”. Not knowing of the existence of this was the reason why my 1989 attempt As part of their campaign to promote the extension of came to an abrupt halt. Going upstream you can detect the navigation to link with the , the Stratford deeper water by observing the the pattern of the current. and Warwick Waterways Trust encourage adventurous Remember this location, you need to shoot it on the return and responsible boaters to navigate up to Alveston. For the downstream. past few years, the trust has coordinated cruises on the Monday following the Stratford River Festival. We took Just above the Barge Cutter you will see a side stream Antares on this year’s trip, with six other boats including two coming in from the left. This is the channel from the side more RN powered craft, Kyle and Brasso. [See Ian’s story weir, the main channel carries straight on through the opposite]. reeds. This is a very narrow channel, with a strong flow so you will need plenty of power. A few hundred yards later Alveston is two miles above Clopton Bridge at Stratford, the the river opens out into the pool below the weir, where the round trip will take around 2 hours. Depending on the river fun in turning takes place. The recommendation is to cruise flow, the return will be significantly faster! The first in pairs, with the first boat being the shorter. The width of landmark is the Old Bathing Place, on the north bank, the the river just below the weir allows boats of up to 58 feet to last official Avon Navigation Trust moorings. About ¾ mile turn. You will need a crew member on the bow with a pole; further is a sharp left hand bend, with the Red House on and a third person to take photographs. The steerer and Tiddington Road on the south bank. Above this the river pole handler will be too occupied to take photographs! narrows, so watch out for overhanging branches. After half There is a good depth, but the banks are rocky. The second a mile, the river bends round to the east, as the north bank boat of the pair should wait in the narrow channel whilst the is the almost sheer cliff of Hatton Rock. Another sharp right first turns, then enter the pool. Now the first boat should hand bend at the end of the cliff is the signal to look out for wait in the pool, whilst the second turns. In this way, if any the navigation hazard. problems occur, particularly with the longer (second) boat, there is help at hand for a pull back. Right hand turning is The course of the river crosses over an outcrop of rock. usually the best, but take a note of which end of the weir Close to the south bank (on your right going upstream) is a has the strongest flow, and put the bow on that side. If depression which provides navigable depth. It appears this turning just below the weir is not possible, then reverse was blasted out of the rock during the early attempts in the back to where the side stream joins and turn there with the 1700s to make the river navigable. SWWT members have help of the other boat.

If you are in a convoy of boats, it is sensible to only have two in the weir pool at once. Also I strongly recommend wearing a life jacket, the stream can be very strong at this point. Finally, to show that boaters are responsible and respect the rights of others, do not disembark on either bank as the land is private.

Finally enjoy the return trip, in under an hour you will be back in the melee of boats by the Shakespeare Theatre and the remoteness of Alveston will seem like a different world.

Rush hour at Alveston. By the junction with the side weir stream, wait here for any proceeding pairs to clear the weir pool. [Nick Oliver] RNR Newsletter : Autumn 2012 7 Second Autumn Gathering It came as no surprise to us all that during the AGM at our Annual Rally, the call was made to hold the second autumn meet in the same place. We had been totally spoilt by the venue, the mooring space and a grumpy Aussie Chef [his description!].

Out of the 23 boats that booked in, 20 arrived in time to enjoy a great weekend of fellowship [and eating/drinking] at The Samuel Barlow Pub. Notably we also had attendance by car of 9 members not able to bring their boats.

One highlight of the informal gathering was a MacMillan Coffee morning arranged by Mary Oliver and her friend Jean on the Friday, coinciding with the worldwide “Biggest Coffee Morning” in aid of this very worthy charity. To include the boats arriving later during Friday, another morning was arranged for Saturday and this was also well supported. In all, proceeds from the cakes & drinks plus a raffle raised £325 in aid of the charity, £50 of which was A display of rag rugs made, or in progress ,since the summer donated by chef Paul! While there, a small display of rag rally. [The full effect of the colours can be seen on the web rugs showed how members had got on with their projects. edition - Ed]. [Rob Davies]

Paul put on a buffet [Aussie style] on the Saturday evening and we also enjoyed breakfasts and a Sunday roast at staggeringly good prices. As they say in Oz, “good tucker, mate!” Saturday musical input came from the usual RNR suspects. The weather was also reasonably kind for the time of year so we had a bit more socialising around the boats that was missed back in June. Once again, meal bookings were coordinated by Trish McNiff and Neil Mason confirmed his position as RNR harbourmaster for a year or too yet.

I make no apology here to say that this venue will be used again and again for rallies and autumn gatherings because the facilities are so good [and 10% discount on services at the marina with the proviso that Paul is still at the Samuel Barlow!] Another evening of socialising. [Rob Davies]

Not so many RN boats in the lay-by as in June. But the sun was The unmistakable outline of the Samuel Barlow. The Old shining! [Andrew Laycock] Bovine moored alongside Ebony. [Andrew Laycock]

8 RNR Newsletter : Autumn 2012 Work Party You may recall that this was ‘advertised’ in the last Issue and was arranged for 17,18 & 19 October. The main objective was to build a room on the mezzanine floor over the Office. This would provide much needed protection for the chests of drawers housing the many and valuable RN engine drawings.

Dave Bixter had organised the materials and also kindly spared his carpenter, Simon, for the first day and a half to assist John Dudley with the build. Simon is a ‘whizz’ at studding and work was soon progressing at a pace. By Wednesday evening two walls were in place with complete with outside panelling which had also been painted. By the time Friday evening arrived all that is now left to do is hang the door! Yes, four walls, panelled and painted inside and out are now in place. And with electrics installed by Norman. Fred Hellin cleans up ... Whilst this was in progress, when the rest of the volunteers were not painting or otherwise assisting with the build, they were busy with a clean and tidy up around the ground floor. This included taking down the ‘Allister’ home made heating unit that ran on used engine oil. It had done sterling service but was no longer considered safe [More like a weapon of mass destruction! Ed]. Dave has purchased an industrial oil fired unit which can now be installed.

Our first Work Party at the Works since Dave & Deborah took over was very successful, many thanks to: John Dudley, Norman Mitchell, Fred Hellin, Dave Martin, Kevin McNiff, Alan & Jean Bamford, Ian Oliver and me.

... meanwhile Rob Davies starts painting ...

John Dudley and Alan Bamford hard at it. ... after helping John cut another panel.

RN branded engine gauges now available to Register members at special prices

Oil pressure £68.13

Rev counter £170.10

Orders to: RN Diesel Engine Company The Locks, Hillmorton, RUGBY, Warwickshire, CV21 4PP 01788 578661

RNR Newsletter : Autumn 2012 9 The Jubilee Pageant on the Thames Norman Wolley reports There were in the region of some 3,000 applications from front of us and behind us as they sailed past us to take their those wishing to participate in the flotilla of 1,000 craft to place in the procession. All the rowers and paddlers of the mark the celebration for the 60 years reign of her Majesty 'man powered boats' passed us on their way down river to the Queen. My wife and I own a canal narrow boat, but due head the procession, the narrow boats came up river from to family illness it was not possible for me to apply for a Docklands to take their positions towards the end of the place amongst the narrow boat contingent participating. My flotilla. wife, Julie, and I received an invitation to be on board a cruiser which was selected. Regretfully Julie had to decline, Perhaps there is no need to remind you about the weather but was insistent that I should attend. This was to be the for this once in a lifetime event, not only was it wet, but also largest ever gathering of boats on the Royal River in the windy and cold, I could see my own breath in the air! Centre of London at any one time, so you may imagine the Fortunately we did enjoy some dry spells during the day, amount of planning necessary for such an event, which such as at the start of the processional route above included such a vast variety of craft. The vessels in their Battersea Bridge, but as we progressed downstream the processional order were, at the front, ‘man powered boats’, rain returned and became progressively much heavier, rowed or paddled, The Royal Squadron, Dunkirk Little climaxing as we passed the Queen's Barge, Spirit of Ships, Historic Boats, Service, Steam and Working Chartwell, moored below Tower Bridge. The dispersal of Vessels, Leisure Vessels, Narrow Boats and Barges, the fleet took place after passing the Queen’s barge, but Passenger Boats and Down River Passenger Boats. that took us three hours before we were able to finally moor Interdispersed amongst the flotilla were boats providing inside West India Docks. During that period it was musical accompaniment and moored between London necessary to cruise up and down the river between Bridge and Tower Bridge was an “Avenue of Sail” of many Greenwich and just above the Thames Barrier at Woolwich, historical sailing vessels. whilst the many boats ahead of us were locked through into West India Docks. During this time in the cold and wet weather there were numerous calls for medical assistance from many persons suffering from hypothermia, so the RNLI, paramedics and ambulances were kept very busy.

Some of the rowing boats in the pageant. [Norman Woolley] Security arrangements for such an event were quite formidable, not only for the participating craft, but for those on board every vessel. Each vessel had to be inspected to ensure they had the required equipment on board, one HM The Queen takes the salute from the Spirit of Chartwell. important item for the powered craft was to have an [Norman Woolley] operational marine radio, essential for keeping in contact with the Pageant Marshal who was in control of the speed How sad it was that the Queen had a repeat of the wet and formation of the convoy. The skipper and crew were weather, which dogged her Coronation. However the not permitted to imbibe any alcohol during the whole time adverse weather could not dampen the British Spirit, of the Pageant; fortunately passengers on board were not everyone involved, including the mass of spectators lining subjected to such restrictions. Everyone had to wear a life the river embankments, even on the foreshore in certain jacket; you even had to be wearing your life jacket when areas, was in jubilant party mood, waving the Union Flag travelling on the water taxis taking you out to your allotted and cheering loudly, the boats sounding their horns, the craft. Prior to boarding the water taxi your details were steamers their whistles, reflecting everyone's enthusiastic checked, these had been supplied in advance to the mood for this memorable event. My long day from 06.45 authorities in charge. You had previously been issued with ended on returning home on the stroke of midnight. a pass, but had to have a means of identifying yourself, such as a passport or driving licence with your photo. On God bless our majestic Queen arrival at the boarding point at Dove Pier, once your identity had been confirmed, you were issued with a coloured wristband, similar to those when in hospital for an operation, this was your passport to board your allocated craft.

The boat on which I was privileged to travel was moored just above Hammersmith Bridge, the assembly point for the leisure craft, which gave us a ringside view of those craft in 10 RNR Newsletter : Autumn 2012 Nigel’s walk for cancer research Wendy Grattan’s brother, Nigel Lewis-Baker,has recently We left John O'Groats on 21st March as a team of three, completed an Epic Walk from John O’ Groats to Land’s with a small support team and the aim of being at Land's End to raise general awareness of cancer. His own cancer End on 17th May — 58 days. None of us really appreciated is incurable but this has not stopped him devoting his what we had let ourselves in for. One had to leave us with efforts to raise money to fund ongoing research for prostate bad blister problems. We experienced every form of cancer. weather this great nation can deliver from a heat wave to deep snow in Scotland, blizzards, hail and rain supported My story began in May by some very strong winds from Northumbria all the way 2004 when I was told south. Fatigue, back pains, aching knees, blisters and shin that I had inoperable, splints became part of the challenge and Charlie and I incurable and local learnt to just walk through them. We had hoped to raise advanced prostate awareness but had no idea of the obvious need there is to cancer and was sent for communicate and be available. It would be nice to think we immediate seven weeks could one day send out a road-show in liaison with Lions, of daily radiotherapy Rotaries and similar charities. and hormone therapies. As these failed I agreed Awareness of Prostate Problems is as important for women to take part in clinical as it is for men since your men-folk need encouragement trials under the care of and nudging to go to the docs with any signs of irregular Prof Hardev Pandha symptoms. The boys will often ignore symptoms through and the research team their own natural fear but also the fear of anything affecting based near the Royal their work and earning capacity, as indeed I did myself. Now that is some hill and effort! Surrey County Hospital This is where the girls need to step in and push for an early in Guildford, Surrey who diagnosis which is essential for the very best outcome and still look after me, although all current known treatments no survival. Early diagnosis is everything. longer work and it is a matter of control now. On investigation I discovered that this team was created and is All of this has only been made possible with the support co-funded together with the University of Surrey by a small and encouragement of people like yourselves and it is truly charity of volunteer trustees made up of patients [of which appreciated by the walkers, support teams and trustees of I am one] and consultants. In just 6 years they have our charity. We are half way to building the Urology Centre, become internationally acknowledged for their work into research is continuing and knowledge of prostate cancer diagnostics and treatment of not only prostate but also and our discoveries is now better known nationwide. Your breast, ovarian, skin, bladder and brain cancers. They investment will help to save many lives. have made the first major advance in prostate cancer in 30 years with the discovery of the EN2 protein, which when it appears in urine indicates not only that there is cancer but what stage and, thereby, what treatments are needed. We hope to have this available within a very few months and this process alone will save 1,000s of lives. This work does not come cheap and we receive no government funding at all. On top of that we intend to build a dedicated Urology Centre to bring clinical and medical research together for cancer and other illnesses and to considerably improve the experience of patients and their families in very stressful times from anywhere in the UK. Our target is to raise £2.3m by the end of next year and we are nearly at the half way point with our Pint-a-Week Appeal and our JOGLE among the fundraising events.

Tony gets his stool

Wendy Grattan presents Tony Hales, Chairman of Canal and River Trust with his painted cabin stool, commissioned earlier this year, at the autumn Saltisford Festival in Warwick. (See back cover of the last edition).

Wendy is offering to to run a painting workshop in 2013 for members wishing to learn how to produce roses and castles. If interested, contact Wendy on 01962 494275.

RNR Newsletter : Autumn 2012 11 Radio RN or Radio [Ga Ga]Galliard! Rob Davies recounts his journey along the Trent & Mersey Canal with BBC Radio Derby in October. ‘This is Andy Peters with BBC Radio Derby Afternoon Show most of the second hour with other bits and pieces in from the Trent & Mersey Canal at Shardlow. Today, and between. The final hour included a visit to the voluntary run every day this week, we will be aboard narrowboat Galliard, Shardlow Heritage Centre, which was opened specially for owned by Rob & Helen Davies’. the broadcast.

Thus began a very interesting boating experience as a We very quickly reached the point where it was time to floating studio for the broadcast of this live show. We close the show with the sound of ‘Russell’ starting up and actually live within BBC Radio WM territory with Radio starting the journey to Stenson for the next day’s show. Derby ‘next door’. So how did we get involved with our Before actually leaving we ‘wound down’ on the boat with neighbours local radio? Many of you will have heard of my Andy and a coffee, reflecting on what was an experiment close friend, Harry Arnold, of Waterway Images (many of that had worked well and it seemed a good omen for the his photos have featured in this publication) and, having rest of the week. I won’t bore you with the detail of each day, been contacted to help find a boat, he asked if we would suffice to say that each show the featured invited guests – like to do this boating with a difference. A week or so later in person or by phone – and impromptu chats to members and we visited the studios to discuss the project with the of the public who happened to be visiting that particular Presenter, Andy Peters, and his production team. Andy location. Andy set out to ‘educate/introduce’ his listeners to had done his homework and suggested that we broadcast the world of canals – the history, the magic, the serenity from Shardlow, Stenson Marina, Mercia Marina at and so on by finding out what it all meant to each person Willington, Shobnall Marina at Burton on Trent, ending the that he spoke to. He certainly achieved his aims; every day week at Alrewas. The Show runs from 1pm to 4pm and all was a resounding success and the gods certainly smiled locations were a ‘doable’ distance allowing us sufficient on us. Andy is a true professional and the running order time to move the boat between broadcasts. We all agreed consisted of the news and travel together with the music to to go for it! be played and at what intervals and sechedules. In between, he played it all by ‘ear and instinct’ and has the knack of putting the folk that he is chatting to at their ease, even if it was the first time they had been on the radio. The weather was kind to us all week with glorious sunshine on some days and, although it was overcast at Shobnall Marina, only a few spots of rain visited us. All too soon it was Friday and we were signing off – with ‘Russell’ – as we had done for all but one Show when a classical/opera singer, Gari Glaysher, closed with Nessum Dorma at Shobnall Marina.

Andy talking to Rob on Stenson Lock beam with Harry Arnold looking on. [BBC Radio Derby]

The first day was Monday 8 October and Helen and I (with Airedale doggie ‘Flissy’) were moored up outside the Clock Warehouse at lunchtime on Sunday. (The Clock Warehouse is now a Pub and serves a very good Sunday Roast – not quite up to Paul’s standard at the Samuel Barlow).

Andy arrived late Monday morning and we chatted about Helen explains rag rug making to Andy with producer Jacqui the show and its format and so on over a cup of coffee. and engineer Kim. [Rob Davies] Midday came and so did producer Jacqui and engineer Kim. (Sandra took over from Jacqui on Wednesday as they This was a most interesting and enjoyable week’s boating job-share) Technically, a live broadband link was and I know from experience that the media can be very established with the studio and Andy used a roving cable- demanding. This was just not the case, Andy, Jacqui, free microphone to come and go as he pleased – within a Sandra and Kim made it so easy for us, they were a joy to reasonable range. In no time he was doing his introduction work with. and, following the News and Travel, Helen and I spent most of the next hour ‘showing’ listeners through Galliard Would we do it again? Certainly, if it was with this Team. including, of course, our beloved RN. We did other bits and pieces on subsequent days. Darren Green, local CRT Waterway Manager, was interviewed alongside the lock for 12 RNR Newsletter : Autumn 2012 RN Blog Blah Blah Blah Engine Plant A massive thanks to all the members to Willow Wren where it is in the inside wet dock awaiting who joined the work party at the factory, The archive/ paint so that it safely spends time outdoors whilst being drawing room was built and some wiring, lighting fitted out at Hillmorton. modifications and safety improvements completed together with cleaning and tidying. The old waste oil burner Boat Yard Exhausts – musical exhausts. NBs Kyle & was removed to make way for a modern space heater. The Revilo visited and swapped exhausts, Kyle liked Revilo’s drawing stock has also received some attention with Trish but Revilo didn’t like Kyle’s. Kyle kept Revilo’s but Revilo and Kevin having volunteered to catalogue all of the wanted a new one. That left Kyle’s exhaust spare. Arthur drawings and ensure that they are in order. This is the first heard about this and thought he might like it so popped in step to creating a proper archive of the drawings – for a fitting. Arthur didn’t like Kyle’s exhaust either but still particularly those no longer used, ‘E’ & ‘F’ series, and at the wanted something different. Arthur was carrying an old same time making it much simpler to find the drawings refrigerant gas bottle and thought that would be good as an which are still required for production of the current ‘D’ exhaust so this was done and peace, if not quiet, reigned series engines. [If anyone is interested we are keen to once more. To summarise, Kyle has Revilo’s old exhaust share this task to expedite the work. Please contact the and Revilo and Arthur have new ones – confused? Oh yes. editor if you feel you can help!] A lot of towing activity this last couple of months, A ‘derelict’ The current build engine boat from Yelvertoft collected for a survey and subsequent (photo right) has found a sale then a new/SH engine (Barrus) fitted together with home and will be on the dyno new bathroom (shower room) and galley prior to new and then on to its new home owners moving onboard to live. Then a shared ownership by the end of November. The boat with all 4 engine mounts broken and consequential 1934 National is still bent tail shaft broken coupling and so on was towed in from available and has been Locks for repair, then we had to collect the new joined by two more engines shell from Brinklow, then one of our Willow Wren hire boats both RNs and both from the had to be towed from Stockton following ‘catastrophic user same ship to which they error’ which caused complete engine failure; a private were originally supplied. One owner’s boat had to be towed in as the propeller whilst still is a 2 cylinder the other a 3 present was no longer attached to the tail shaft but was cylinder. These will be freely rotating on the end! .Finally another hire company refurbished and then offered called us to one of its fleet at 1.00pm with no steering at the for sale. [Interestingly, these top of Hatton Locks. We sent the hirers off to Hatton engine have the Jabsco Country World as they were stuck for the day. Apparently another boat rammed them from behind and bent their water pumps fitted on the New build DM2. rudder shaft. We had to remove the rudder complete with timing case, just as the [Rob Davies] current “modified” fit! See 3” bend!, take it to a local foundry and heat it up to photo below – Ed.] straighten it. Next morning when we tried to refit it, it was obvious that the skeg was also bent upwards and this had New Engines Various quotes have been received for to be jacked back down with a portable hydraulic ram castings and machining with prices varying by up to 150%. through the weed hatch – damn that water gets cold quick. We need to fully evaluate the quotes as cheapest is rarely Oh and of course it was pouring with rain just to make it best!. Just getting the quotes interesting. All done and back running by 9.00am. The has taken much too long with cause? Mystery boat? Aliens? No of course not. Much some companies reluctant to simpler. Talking to others in the group the cause was as quote for such low volumes suspected, prop fouled in the lock, no power or control, too or obviously unwilling to take hasty opening of paddles and the boat slammed into the on the work, so overpricing bottom gate not only bending the 2” rudder shaft but also the work to rule themselves breaking off the Tiller handle. Why the fairy story? Who out. knows maybe they thought it was less likely to attract a charge from the hire base! RN Gathering Another great weekend at Alvecote The Archive As David mentions, work has begun on and good to see all of you archiving the drawings in the works. The first pass will be there again – Henry had a to list every one, noting which engine type it refers to. This great time enjoying the is a long term task and once we have scoped the task and freedom rarely afforded to defined how to proceed, we’ll be looking for volunteers to dogs at any such venue. come and assist. [Well 150 mutts can’t be Note the 2 water pumps fitted wrong!– Ed] to the timing case of the D3 RN Diesel Engine Co. require all the D1/2/3 series engines mentioned above. The drawings relevant to building and maintaining these The RN boat shell is finally D2 has a similar arrangement. engines; all will be digitised either by scanning or completed and looks Not shown: this engine also photography and the non essential E/F series offered to the absolutely fantastic. We has a compressed air starter companies that bought the spares. have towed it from Brinklow motor. [Kevin McNiff] RNR Newsletter : Autumn 2012 13 Stratford or Bust! RNR members have had their share of boat related accidents this year. Here, David and Jane Brixey [nb Rowan] tell their story. Having enjoyed yet another rally, this year at Alvecote, our Poor Jane, on the engine controls, couldn't get at me. The itinerary was to repeat a cruise to Stratford via Kingswood CRT employee called for an ambulance and the CRT Junction, river Avon to Tewkesbury, which we had last rescue team and went rushing off to unlock a far gate for cruised 15 years ago in our previous boat. We were the ambulance to gain access. It arrived fairly quickly, then going to cover pastures new by continuing down to shortly followed by the CRT team. The paramedics couldn't Gloucester and onto the Sharpness canal, having had reach me at the bottom of the lock, I thought at the time due good advice from Norman Mitchell and others whilst at to H&S regulations. It turned out afterwards that the crew Alvecote. suffered from fear of heights. That was fair enough. I suffer from many things myself! Time for the CRT rescue to swing We cruised leisurely ahead of other members on their way into action. Apparently they get a boat stuck in this lock to the Stratford festival, so that we could take in the cultural about 15 times a season so with one of them on each sights of the town and Theatre, meaning to be on the upper sluice and in unison they rapidly raise and lower Sharpness by the festival date. We knew from old the several times to create a wave effect. They told us reputation of the Wilmcote flight for locks 44 & 47 being afterwards that this doesn't always work so I wouldn't narrower than any others and we were also aware that advise trying it at home. The wave rocked Rowan free of Rowan is a little wider than the standard 6' 10''. We had her grip and up she came with the water level. From my done our homework and consulted Waterscape regarding angle the paramedics came within reach. dimensions, where it states that boats of 7 foot beam should not attempt this flight. So full of confidence and I was in the back of the ambulance while the others pulled always game for a challenge, off we set. the boat out backwards and secured her to the layby bollards. Jane locked up and joined me for the trip to We have all suffered a very wet season this year making Warwick hospital A&E department. Back at the boat a few the towpaths very muddy. Walking the dog alongside the hours later, with arm in a sling, it was agreed we could stay boat whilst cruising has meant a very slippery, dodgy affair. where we were long enough for me to recover and then The Wilmcote moorings were no exception to this where we CRT would assist us backwards up the flight to the had stopped the previous afternoon. We took time out in Wilmcote moorings. the delightful village and paid for tickets into Mary Arden's house, which, incidentally, are valid for any return up to a I became under the hands of the physiotherapist which year. We enjoyed the estate and Falconry very much, not meant we had to remain within easy reach of public to mention the local hostelry for an evening meal. The local transport for Warwick. Stratford was now out of the village store is well stocked and very friendly. equation (other than by train) as were our other goals. Perhaps fate was on our side due to constant flood We started into the flight after a leisurely breakfast the next conditions on the Avon and Severn. Jane and I decided morning in sunshine. A few boats were moving in both that abandoning the boat far from home was also not directions and into lock 44 we proceeded. By coincidence a consideration, so a plan of relatively lock free cruising a CRT employee was inspecting the flight for maintenance around the area was drawn up fast. An initial movement and stopped at 44 as we entered. The water was dropped back and forth between Wilmcote and Wootton Wawen but the fore end of Rowan didn't. The lock was gently charged the batteries, allowed loo emptying and weekly reversed and normal situation regained. The CRT train to Warwick and gave us very pleasant countryside. employee suggested moving to the back of the chamber The Mary Arden tickets meant we could revisit the falconry and dropping again which would resolve the issue. and use their facilities, cafe and so on at will. Whilst in this However at the bottom the boat wedged and would not area we were gradually overtaken by other RNR members move. No persuasion in any direction, that is forwards, on their way to a successful Stratford Festival. backwards, upwards (with sluices) by any force, made any difference. Stuck she was! Can't lose, I thought. I will bring Even this palled after the second week so we decided to my crow bar into play and try and lever her away from the spread our cruising ground and still remain in train distance wall from the well deck while other forces and words of of the physio. Our daughter and family came to help us up assistance were in play and Jane at the controls. My left the Lapworth flight and suddenly the miles of lock free BCN arm was above me on the wall as I stood on the cockpit came into our grasp, as well as the top of the Tardebigge locker while levering. The next bit was unclear but I think with Birmingham as our base. This is an ideal place to be my feet gave way as I slipped off the locker top and fell in rain storms. Hard towpath with no mud! So again heavily onto my left arm still on the chamber wall. Pain pastures new with the 'Curley Wyrley' and Chasewater followed plus lack of movement with my arm. Holding it with Reservoir awaiting us. We covered 56 miles over a week. my right hand and the jemmy now on the floor I decided There is a good dentist in Alvechurch but that is yet another that I had, in fact, dislocated my left shoulder. Unbeknown chapter to our 2012 saga. Here's to 2013 season. at the time this also included a torn muscle. Agony was the only way to describe the feeling and I decided to give up the fight and sit down on the seat and let others sort the problem.

14 RNR Newsletter : Autumn 2012 Charitable Donations We always hold a raffle at the summer rally and this year Looking for that Special at Alvecote was no exception. Below are the two certificates recognising our donations. CHRISTMAS Gift Look no further than the RNR Merchandise List

CLOTHING TO ORDER OTHER ITEMS IN-STOCK!

Seasons Greeting from Neil

And we must also mention the money raised at the MacMillan Coffee Morning during the Alvecote Autumn Gathering.

Thank you all!

Musical exhaust ? See page 13. [Andrew Laycock]

RNR Newsletter : Autumn 2012 15