The Magazine of the & Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust

Issue No. 75 - Spring 2013

High Sheriff of , Mrs Sarah Elsom DL, accompanied by Cllr Ken Humphreys, Chairman of Council ceremonially plant a Swedish Birch tree in Darnford Park, as a tribute to the volunteers past and present (3-April-2013). hay Whar eet f L tr Lichfield td S Heart of the .

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Support the boat yard on the “Lichfield Ring”

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V.A.T No. 133609427 Chairman’s Column y h Membership of the Staffordshire Waterways Group opens up L&H to a considerable tha W arf range of information about our fellow canal restorers. We are certainly not alone ee L in the county in undertaking a multi-million pound restoration project. We can now r t share our expertise and experiences bringing the realisation that we have so much t d in common. L&H is a senior player in this waterways team as we approach our silver S . anniversary but in every case the scenario is the same. We have the engineering solutions and know how to get our waterways back into the national network but we lack just a few vital ingredients. We need to merge our organisations into much wider partnerships (call them what we will) and above all we need the money. It is, of course, this need to find major funding which makes it far more difficult than it once was to draw together the major players we need to form a dynamic restoration consortium. We look back to major successes of the past such as the Rochdale, the Huddersfield Narrow and the Droitwich where the magic ingredients were found and schemes which had languished for decades suddenly burgeoned into active life and a quick reopening. The volunteers were gently elbowed aside and the professionals took over. The amateurs had learnt how to do it but the professionals also had learnt to be wary of the skilful blandishments which drew them in. We live in vastly straitened financial circumstances and local authorities in particular struggle to meet their obligations to their electorate without contemplating ambitious canal restorations. It is a problem which is not unique to the waterways. An obvious parallel lies in the world of heritage railways. Many have been reopened and others struggle patiently on towards completion. They have the added complication of running public services and the need to balance the books in a major business. They too are feeling their share of the national economic pain. Some have to finance major and unexpected repairs, largely weather-related, which place heavy burdens on their resources which have to be bolstered by considerable fund-raising appeals. In this respect, they tend to be fishing in the same financial pool as the waterways restorers. Some are being forced into reductions to their services, shortening their operating season and generally retrenchment. One operation which has run heritage electric locomotives on the main line has stopped doing so and is restricting itself to limited maintenance of its fleet. It has stated that it is now much more difficult to raise voluntary funding

3 Cut Both Ways Spring 2013 Chairman’s Column

for heritage activities. This could be seen as a form of “donation fatigue” where there are just too many calls on the diminishing funds of enthusiasts. As you will read elsewhere in this magazine, our restoration work especially in Lichfield, continues with some exciting progress to report. In Darnford Park, and across the A51 at our more mature Tamworth Road site, much has been done and we are poised to do more. Our engineers could move towards early completion if only we could source the funds. Our finance team does all it can to find the money we need but the results lack the many noughts on the figures which we so desperately need. There is a serious prospect of returning the section from 24 to the A51 to water in a matter of months. The will is there but the finance cannot be assured. If we can deal with this and finish building the two lock staircase in Darnford Park then we will look seriously at burrowing under the A51 and the A38. These are practical realities which can and must be undertaken soon. Only by setting such targets can we ever hope to achieve them. There are other essential background issues to tackle involving the local authorities and the Environment Agency which can be dealt with through patient discussion and a degree of give and take. Now all this is familiar stuff and these are themes I have returned to several times over the past nearly thirteen years. It is the slow chewing away at the difficulties which tests the resolve of the active membership, especially the Trust Council. Major advances are very rare – we have seen only one “aqueduct moment” in over a decade. Most progress is measured in the notes of yet another meeting or the completion of another section of towpath wall. All are absolutely vital but few will set the world ablaze and galvanise potential funders. We also need to sell ourselves anew to the people who live and work near our canals. Populations change, people move on and, let’s face it, die. Unless we draw in new generations of the wider public we will never create the required groundswell of opinion. A decade ago, with the invaluable support of David Suchet, we attracted two audiences of more than 400 people to hear us set out our plans. It is more than time for us to attempt something similar. Meanwhile we fill in the forms and make the approaches to likely funding bodies. We have learnt the need for caution as we do this. We have to stress the great benefits a restored canal will bring to the whole community and not just to what are perceived as wealthy and transient middle-class boat owners. We are advocating a heritage trail along the whole length of the which will open it up to everyone well ahead of the return of the boats. How many of us had realised that a waterway is a “linear gym” which will promote health among walkers, cyclists, anglers and ornithologists. The buzz word is “holistic”. The wider the appeal the greater the prospect of funding.

All Photos in this issue are by Bob Williams except where credited otherwise. 4 Cut Both Ways Spring 2013 Chairman’s Column

It is interesting to note that the Inland Waterways Association is placing more emphasis on the needs of boaters than has been the case in probably twenty years. The still new CRT has stated its support for canal restoration which is most welcome considering the pressure on its own funding. L&H is not yet recruiting any “fat ladies” to sing when it heads for oblivion with its work done. That work is most certainly not done and needs all the drive behind it that the whole membership must now give it. Brian Kingshott(chairman)

All Correspondence should be addressed to :- Trust Secretary, Sue Williams, Norfolk House, 29 Hall Lane, Hammerwich, WS7 0JP

To restore the Lichfield Canal and the to re-open waterway links between Staffordshire and the West Midlands, for the benefit of the environment, amenity and prosperity of the people of the region and to enhance the nation’s inland waterway system.

5 Cut Both Ways Spring 2013 Donations to the Trust We gratefully acknowledge the following donations for amounts over £20 from 1st January to 31st March 2013. Name ( in order of receipt ) Trust & Sponsor Restoration Marketing Appeal Appeals IWA Lichfield Branch; New Year’s Day walk collection 30.00 anonymous 200.00 West Midlands Transport Circle (talk) 50.00 Mr R T Willis (private fees) 75.00 Renaissance Ladies Group, 50.00 Mr P J Smith (with sub.) 44.00 Mr B R Humphreys (with sub.) 38.00 Mr G J Kennison (with sub.) 50.00 Mr C E Ricketts (with sub.) 44.00 Miss D M Skilbeck MBE 100.00 Mr & Mrs J K W Pearse 25.00 IWA Lichfield Branch, Audrey Smith fee 30.00 Mr D A Tarrant 30.00 Derby & Sandiacre Canal Society (talk) 50.00 anonymous 250.00 The Fundraising Co. Ltd (recycling) 49.18 Mr O F G Butler 80.00 Mr M Wolyniec (with sub.) 35.00 Mrs K M Stanier (with sub.) 24.00 Mr David Stanistreet 90.00 Terry Brown’s Walk, sum of donations 493.00 and pledges so far up to £20 + Gift Aid. - Mr J W Farren 25.00 - Mr & Mrs S Clive 30.00 - Mr J C S Ford 25.00 - Mr & Mrs D S Beardsmore 30.00 Mr J Moody (returned property rent) 150.00 Returned expenses by Trust Directors:- - Mr B Kingshott 339.30 - Mr D Dixon 70.80 - Mr R O Williams 98.45 Regular donors to appeals + G.A. tax 1391.25 Sum of donations below £20 each +GA 1373.03 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING Notice is hereby given that the 23rd. Annual General Meeting of the Lichfield and Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust Ltd. will be held at Park View Centre, Chester Road North, , WS8 7JB on Friday 7th June 2013 at 7.15 pm (see page 28). 6 Cut Both Ways Spring 2013 New Members 1st January to 31st March 2013.

Mrs. M. Butler, Stannington, Sheffield. Mr. W. Rose, Rugeley. Mr. D. R. F. Willey, Rushock, Kington, Hereford. Mr. A. Lorrimer-Riley, Bangor, Gwynedd. Miss J. M. Cooper, Lichfield. Mr. C. Keen, Lewes, East Sussex. ********************************************************************************************* Membership 1207 (Including 135 Life, 21 Joint Life, 11 Group, 7 Corporate) Plus 561 Family. Total 1768. Covenanted Members 64. Current Covenant and Gift Aid declarations 796 ********************************************************************************************* We are very grateful to the following donors:- Chase Plant Hire Ltd, assistance with site machines. Chasetown Civil Engineering Ltd, assistance with site materials. Clarke Construction Services Limited, Brownhills, assistance with site work. Padley & Venables Ltd, Sheffield, industrial drill parts. Ruttle Plant () Ltd, Lichfield, heavy lifting plant on site. Southwell Mott, Lichfield, legal assistance. Tony Kirkham, Burntwood, sound system at Quiz Evening. Vector Precision Engineering, Nantwich, producing lifting device. *********************************************************************************************

For the latest pictures, news and on-line ordering of sales items, don’t forget to take a look at the web site. www.lhcrt.org.uk

ANNOUNCEMENT We regret the loss of the following member:-

Mr K A Twyman, Sittingbourne, Kent, died 16th November 2012.

Owing to the ever increasing cost of postage, the Trust Council has decided to discontinue sending “ Courtesy Reminders “ to those members who pay by Bankers Order. Consequently, it would be more economical for the Trust if those who pay by cheque could change to a Bankers Order, using the form available on our website, or call 01543 671427 to have one sent to you. 7 Cut Both Ways Spring 2013 Become a member of our 500 Club for the chance to win prizes of up to £400 every three months!

50% of the 500 Club income will be retained for capital expenditure essential for restoration of our two canals… and

50% paid in prizes to its members.

The “500 Club” could contribute up to £3,000 a year - or even more - whilst, for just £12 a year, Club Members get four chances of winning prizes of up to £400 - or maybe more each time!

Renewals have been coming in steadily and there have also been several new subscriptions taken out since the last draw. 227 subscriptions were eligible for this draw, twenty five more that in the December 2012 draw. This total of 227 subscriptions compares favourably with 213 subscriptions we had for the March draw in 2012. The more subscriptions we have, the more money we raise for the Capital Fund and for prize money, so please spread the word. Remember, membership of the Club is open to everyone, not just members of Lichfield & Hatherton Canals RestorationTrust. So please spread the word. The winners of the March 2013 draw are: First prize £177.06 No 103 Mr. D J Redwood, Sutton Coldfield. Second prize £115.77 No 32 Mr. Dave Tarrant, Castle Donington. Third prize £47.67 No 84 Mr. John Potts, Hammerwich. The “500 Club” Capital Fund has been established to raise funds for capital expenditure on land purchase and rebuilding structures on the Lichfield and Hatherton Canals. For an annual subscription of £12 Club Members are allocated 1 chance in each of 4 successive quarterly draws. Based on a membership of 500, the maximum prizes will be: 1st Prize £400 approx 26% income 2nd Prize £250 approx 17% income 3rd Prize £100 approx 7% income If there are more or less than 500 members, the prizes will be proportionally increased or decreased. So the more 500 Club members we have, the higher the prizes. Remember, membership of the 500 Club is open to everyone, not just members of Lichfield & Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust. So please spread the word. If you want to subscribe, you can download an application form from our website www.lhcrt.org.uk, or write to Mavis Moore, 88 Spring Lane, Whittington, Lichfield WS14 9NA. 8 Cut Both Ways Spring 2013 (advertisement)

Michael Fabricant MP Member of Parliament for the Constituency of Lichfield.

If you live in the Lichfield Parliamentary constituency, and you require assistance and think your MP can help, you can either write to Michael Fabricant at the House of Commons, Westminster, London SW1A 0AA; or you can email him by using the webform at www.michael.fabricant.mp.co.uk/contact.html or telephone his office at 01543 419650 where you can also make an appointment to see him at one of his regular surgeries. (advertisement) 9 Cut Both Ways Spring 2013 From Here and There

Travellers We are still awaiting the Inspector’s verdict on the planning application from the travellers who have purchased a portion of land east of Barracks Lane and adjacent to on the Ogley Flight. The owners have already cleared the land including the embankment of the canal ahead of occupying it for residential purposes. The planning application went to appeal after rejection by Lichfield District Council and a decision was expected some months ago. The delay is apparently the result of policy discussion at the national level.

The Heritage Trail Members will be aware of the considerable construction works at Tamworth Road and the major excavations in Darnford Park. These all demonstrate our determination to achieve restoration as soon as finances allow, certainly from Huddlesford to Lichfield. We have demonstrated to the planners that the Lichfield canal can be restored over much of its length, within the period of the District Plan by 2028. Of course, our ambition is to restore the entire length at the earliest opportunity. However, unless major funding materialises we will not convince the authorities that we can open the whole length soon. With this in mind, we have decided to establish a heritage trail from Huddlesfrord to Ogley which will open it up to public access and raise awareness of the restoration scheme. We do not control all the track and so agreements with landowners and deviations onto alternative footways will be required. There will be signage and interpretation boards. This has been done on other restoration schemes as a “pump-priming” exercise.

The Easter Coffee Morning It was a great pity that this popular annual event fell victim to the return of deep winter a few days before Easter. President, Eric Wood, and Doreen have run, what they modestly call, a coffee morning on Easter Saturday for many years and have raised considerable sums for L&H.

High Speed Rail With the publication of maps and details of the next stage of HS2, which will run to Manchester and Leeds, local interest and expressions of concern have increased considerably. These extensions have impact on several points on the currently open canals and also canals under restoration. We have been involved in consultations with HS2 in this wider context as well as with their engineers concerning the crossing at Huddlesford. If the designers stick to the currently published plans then the new line will cross at least 30 metres above water level causing us few engineering concerns. However other mooted possibilities are a tunnel and a crossing virtually at current water level. The former would probably benefit the canal environment but the latter must be resisted at all costs. 10 Cut Both Ways Spring 2013 From Here and There

Legacies We hope that members will remember L&H in their wills. We can provide all the advice and paperwork required. Of course, if anyone wishes to make a gift while still enjoying an active and healthy life we would welcome that too! We can name structures and locations in memory of the departed. Queen’s Representative visits Lichfield Canal Mrs Sarah Elsom DL, High Sheriff of Staffordshire has paid tribute to dedicated volunteers working on restoring the Lichfield Canal. At a ceremonial planting of a Swedish Birch tree in Darnford Park, Lichfield on Wednesday 3rd April, she praised those who have worked for many years to bring back this closed 200-year old waterway link across the Midlands. Cllr Ken Humphreys, also attended to give his support as Chairman of Lichfield District Council. Meeting members of the Lichfield & Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust, she was pleased to see how much has been done by so few who volunteer their time and expertise from many walks of life to undertake such public spirited work. With her own background as a Museum Curator and as the Queen’s Representative for upholding law and order in Staffordshire, the High Sheriff recognised the value of restoring such a valuable public amenity in the County. In dedicating the tree, Mrs Elsom said it provides a focal point for the public to recognise Trust workers, past and present, who have striven over many years, often against difficult circumstances, Eric Wood, President, explains to the High Sheriff towards putting the Trust’s association with local authorities and Lichfield back on volunteer groups, 3-Apr-2013 (photo by Jan Horton). the waterways map of Britain. She says that “The whole fabric of community life would crumble without the many people who give their time and resources tirelessly to help others. There are so many organisations and individuals across the County who make a real difference to the lives of others.” Brian Kingshott (chairman)

11 Cut Both Ways Spring 2013 Marketing and Promotions Report

Our 25th Anniversary Year is packed with Marketing and Promotional activities, with a high target of £25,000 to raise from a full programme of events:- Jan.1 Hosted IWA Lichfield Branch New Years’ Day Walk when two dozen walkers enjoyed a bright day for a five-mile circular walk based on , led by David Dixon, raising £30.00. Mar.9 Annual Jumble sale shared with IWA Lichfield Branch where quality donated goods changed hands to raise £500 in just two hours. Mar.10 Northern Canals Association meeting attended in Lincoln, focusing on stonemasonry and use of traditional mortars in canal restoration. Mar.16 Annual Quiz Evening, Boley Park Community Hall, Lichfield led by Bob Williams, attracted a full house of over 100, enjoying a close-fought thematic inquisition with a Fish & Chip Supper, raising £758. Mar.17 Southern Canals Association meeting attended in Swindon to “fly our flag”, and learn from developments on the Wilts & Berks Canal. Apr.3 Mrs Sarah Elsom DL (left), High Sheriff of Staffordshire ceremonially planted a Swedish Birch tree in Darnford Park, accompanied by Cllr Ken Humphreys, Chairman of Lichfield District Council as a tribute to the volunteers past and present who achieve so much (see page 11). Apr.13 Terry Brown tackled his two- week Wainwright’s Coast to Coast Walk across the North of England, exceeding his target of £1,000 as most sponsors put this in before the event, confident of his success! (see page 24). Apr.28 Northern Canals Association hosted by us in Lichfield, sharing experiences and explaining first-hand our current “ancient and modern” theme in Borrowcop Locks Canal Park (see work report). Looking ahead as we go to press... 12 Cut Both Ways Spring 2013 Marketing and Promotions Report

May 4 Morriston Orpheus Choir Charity Concert for L&H in Lichfield Cathedral will be seen as one of the highlights of the year in contributing substantially to this year’s promotion and fund-raising target. May 6 ‘French Evening’ at home by Eric and Doreen Wood, a select event for the discerning few! May 25 3-day Crick Boat Show exhibition stand at this extensive premier inland boat show for all manner of boating and trade interests. May 27 Lichfield Greenhill Bower Show stand in Beacon Park, Lichfield. Jun. 7 Annual General Meeting at Brownhills with Guest Speaker, Geraint Coles divulging good and bad experiences on the Chesterfield Canal. Jun.15 2-day Pelsall Boat Rally stand, Pelsall Common on the Wyrley & Canal, exhibition of work and fund-raising sales. Jun.23 Brownhills Waterfront stand at this local promotional event. Jun.29 2-day Braunston Historic Boat Rally stand, Braunston Marina, near Daventry, an enthusiasts paradise with some 100 historic boats to see. Jul. 7 Lichfield “Florette” Market stand in the Lichfield Cathedral setting. Jul. 7 2-day Rotary Club “Cars in the Park” stand in Beacon Park, Lichfield: always an attractive, massive event for ‘motor-heads’. Sep.21 Our own 2-day Huddlesford Heritage Gathering at Huddlesford Junction, featuring an extensive collection of boats, classic cars, traders, entertainment, food and drink with fun for all the family! Oct.26 Annual Social Evening, Whittington Village Hall, entertainment by “Second Thoughts” and hot supper. Tickets on sale later in the year. If that’s not enough, arctic weather defeated this year’s traditional Woods’ Easter Coffee Morning, but promotional talks were presented to three groups in January and February, raising £150 in donations. If you can help at any of these events, please call us on 01543 671427.

Grand Prize Draw 2013 Tickets are now on sale for this year’s Draw where the top prizes total £700, and there are many other valuable prizes to be won. The Draw will be made at the Social Evening in October – see above - so there is plenty of time to sell, sell, sell towards that £25,000 target. If you need more books of tickets to sell, please call 01543 671427. 13 Cut Both Ways Spring 2013 Then and Now

After the Lichfield Canal was finally abandoned in the late 1960s, the channel was mostly infilled and taken up by adjoining properties. At Tamworth Road, Lichfield, the basin behind Canal Cottage (shown in red) formed a large garden, part of which had to be acquired to reinstate the canal between Locks 25 and 26. These two pictures really are the same place, even in recent times.

Canal Cottage garden before restoration work started.

Restored canal channel now between Locks 25 and 26. 14 Cut Both Ways Spring 2013 Lichfield Canal Work Report

Pound 27, Tamworth Road “Ancient and Modern” sums up the theme of work in progress where at one end we are recreating a traditional canal structure, whilst at the other end we are running trials on the latest scientific technology in channel waterproofing materials. Ancient Despite the severe winter weather, considerable advances have been made on this section, thanks to the dedication of the home team. The pictures show how the area prepared last year for constructing a “narrows” – inset canal sides so that planks can be inserted to separate wet and dry areas – took shape. The ‘home team’ built wooden shuttering to precise dimensions, supervised by Trust Engineer, Peter Buck, seen here adding some finishing touches.

15 Cut Both Ways Spring 2013 Lichfield Canal Work Report

We are again very grateful to Clarke Construction Services Ltd of Brownhills who, having helped us to lay the base last year, gave us a full February day with heavy plant in the bitter cold and snow to place 16m3 of ready-mixed concrete in the shuttering to form the lower part of the walls.

16 Cut Both Ways Spring 2013 Lichfield Canal Work Report

To give the structure a traditional appearance, massive sandstone blocks, abandoned on site when the three locks alongside Tamworth Road were reduced in height after closure, had been recovered and stored for re-use.

These were carefully studied for shape, size and condition to select the most suitable ones to make the “narrows” look as if it has always been there!

17 Cut Both Ways Spring 2013 Lichfield Canal Work Report

18 Cut Both Ways Spring 2013 Lichfield Canal Work Report

The largest stones weight nearly three tons and all are beautifully cut with dressed outer faces having a 1:25 batter to match their former position in the lock walls. However, it has been necessary to adapt these shapes to produce the best result which saves £2,000 compared to their volume in concrete. This work could only be done with a very heavy-duty fork-lift machine, fortunately available from nearby Ruttle Plant Hire who have been very pleased to help on many occasions. For this work, the regular team quickly learnt to be stonemasons to cut and shape the blocks to match a very precise design. The end result is very pleasing and will soon mature as the stones come with greenery already attached!

19 Cut Both Ways Spring 2013 Lichfield Canal Work Report

Meanwhile, a standard method of reinforced concrete coping for the towpath wall is under construction. This will incorporate mooring rings imbedded in the concrete, supplied by John Baylis of WRG East Midlands. That “ticks a box”!

20 Cut Both Ways Spring 2013 Lichfield Canal Work Report

Modern “Terraseal” is a modern product comprising an impregnated polymer chemical fabric as a thin, lightweight sheet that is easily laid by hand without machinery. The suppliers, H&R, whilst being a global business happen to only manufacture the chemical in Tipton, right beside the canal entry to the ; so that’s “another tick”! Although the material has been used elsewhere, such as on the Montgomery Canal, Peter Buck our Engineering Director is working with H&R to establish industry standards for the Picture by Peter Buck product. A test area has been set up to run measured trials for different applications. All methods of waterproofing a canal channel are expensive so it is vital to assess how this modern material compares with traditional clay and other lining methods on a large scale.

To end on a sad note, thieves raided the Tamworth Road site on 9-10th April, brutally destroying secure closures on the sheds and stealing a quantity of small plant and hand tools – all the stuff we use to get on with the job. The Police collected clues, but that is usually only that. Insurance is one thing, even if a claim is accepted, but loss of personal tools is most depressing and not really replaceable to the same extent. So that’s a major set-back in carrying on, both physically and psychologically: another slant on ‘modern’ life. Bob Williams, (Project Co-ordinator) 21 Cut Both Ways Spring 2013 Lichfield & Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust Ltd.

Charity No.702429 & Lichfield Cruising Club Invite you to join them for the HUDDLESFORD HERITAGE GATHERING HISTORIC NARROWBOATS & CLASSIC CARS 21st & 22nd September 2013 at Lichfield Cruising Club, WS13 8PY Huddlesford Junction on the Coventry Canal Everyone Welcome (come by boat, car or on foot) and please bring your friends (plenty of free on-site car parking) Open to the public from 10am – 5pm Admission £3 (includes programme); Children free Call Sue Williams (01543 671427) for boat and exhibitor entry forms or email [email protected]

THE PINXTON PUPPETS BOAT TRIPS …. CHILDREN'S RIDES TRADE & CRAFT STALLS CAKE STALL …. BOOK STALL ….. BRIC-A-BRAC LICHFIELD DIOCESAN MOBILE BELFRY REAL ALE from BLYTHE BREWERY ALL DAY BARBECUE COFFEE & CAKE LICENSED BAR WITH REAL ALE AVAILABLE IN THE CRUISING CLUB

Saturday Night: Food & Music in the Marquee with Meet on the Ledge Admission by ticket only - available in advance from Sue Williams (01543 671427) or our website: www.lhcrt.org.uk

Proceeds to aid the restoration of the Lichfield & Hatherton canals 22 Cut Both Ways Spring 2013 Recycle, Benefit your Environment Raise Funds for our Charity Please donate your unwanted Gold, Silver, Costume Jewellery and Watches Parcel up your jewellery and post free of charge to:

Lichfield & Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust Ltd, FREEPOST, CENTRAL, RECYCLING If you can, please ask your family, friends and colleagues to participate in this Jewellery Recycling Collection. Thank you very much for your support

Would you like to receive a colour copy of Cut Both Ways in an electronic PDF format? Please email the editor ([email protected]) and request a copy. 23 Cut Both Ways Spring 2013 2013 is an important year for the Trust to mark 25 years of achievement. We have a programme of interesting events spread throughout the year, focusing on promoting the Trust and raising more capital to continue restoration work. Sponsored Walk Appeal Report by Terry Brown “What a contrast over two weeks! Wainwright’s 200-mile Coast to Coast Walk across the North of England from west to east presents the most demanding terrain first. My first week of wet, windy weather was not pleasant, indeed quite scary with some casualties, but thankfully both the ground and the weather eased off through the second week. The support I have had from so many people is quite humbling and I appreciated the friendship and encouragement of others on the walk. My target of raising £1,000 has been nearly doubled, so I thank everyone who has contributed to the appeal to help the Trust. Please sent pledge payments and sponsorship donations to LHCRT Ltd, 29 Hall Lane, Hammerwich, Staffs. WS7 0JP, or through the Trust website (see p.30). 24 Cut Both Ways Spring 2013 Money Matters

2012 Accounts Extracts from last year’s draft accounts which are produced in this edition have been examined by Dains, Accountants, Lichfield, at their reduced community fee for presenting to our AGM on 7th June. We are also grateful to West, Accountants, Solihull who have again assisted the Trust by examining the accounts of our wholly- owned subsidiary Retail Trading Company which have been presented to the Trust Board of Directors. The result is included in the main Trust accounts on a group basis. One may look at the “bottom line” and see a large figure, so plenty of money to spend. No! The component values are tied up in property or funds donated for restricted purposes, which is fine when we need to spend from one of those categories. Otherwise, it is very much a “hand to mouth” operation where income determines rate of progress. The more we get, the more we can do. Silver Anniversary Fund Prior to the new season, this is yet to be promoted in line with all the activities planned for this year, detailed under Marketing in this issue. For our 25th anniversary, £25,000 may seem an ambitious target, but with grants getting ever more difficult to obtain, we have to work hard on raising our own funds. Membership subscriptions It is pleasing to note that 4 out of every 10 members add a voluntary donation to their annual subscription, taking the average payment across all members to £15 each as unrestricted income. This may be a fairer way of maintaining our basic income rather than a general increase in subscription rates when the donations may then cease, or members choose to discontinue their support. The basic £10 adult subscription has not changed since the very beginning, 25 years ago, so its purchasing power is very much less and may well have to be adjusted in line with other values as we go forward. Gift Aid declaration 70% of all subscriptions are paid with the benefit of a Gift Aid Declaration for the Trust to claim the equivalent tax value. Each year, tax rates are reviewed in the Chancellor’s Budget where the amount allowed before taxation follows an upward trend. Therefore, people on lower incomes benefit by not having to pay tax which means that declarations established some time ago may no longer be valid. Whilst the Trust may loose the benefit of making some claims, we must be mindful of the law and be advised by those whose tax circumstances have changed to discontinue their Gift Aid claims. Just give me a call on 01543 671427 to change our records. Bob Williams, Director (Finance)

The views expressed in Cut Both Ways do not necessarily represent those of the Trust or the Editor. They are however published as being of interest to our readership. 25 Cut Both Ways Spring 2013 LICHFIELD & HATHERTON CANALS RESTORATION TRUST LIMITED DRAFT BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2012

31 Dec 2012 31 Dec 2011 £ £ £ £ F I X E D A S S E T S Freehold property (part depreciated) 347,796 313,566 Plant & Machinery (over £1,000 per item, depreciated) 4,619 5,459 Investment in subsidiary company shares 1,000 353,415 1,000 320,025 C U R R E N T A S S E T S Debtors Net assets available from subsidiary company 1,002 2,485 Net Group VAT receivable / payable 0 3,150 Advance expenditure on Darnford Park development 9,000 Receipts due 0 10,002 5,635 Bank balances: Restricted funds: Lichfield Canal, Tamworth Rd separate match funding 1,630 1,630 Brick Appeal funds, net of expenditure 55 170 Land Fund, net of expenditure 869 34,690 Restoration Fund - general, net of expenditure 13,915 1,780 - Page legacy for paddle gear 2,756 2,756 David Suchet Thirty Pounds Appeal, net of expenditure 1,981 33,091 Diamond Jubilee Fund, net of expenditure 1,125 - 500 Club prize reserve 257 22,588 254 74,371 Designated funds: 500 Club Capital Fund 1,242 1,290 Restoration budget balance 52 1,294 105 1,395 Unrestricted funds: Trust funds for general purposes 2,118 234 Total funds in deposit a/cs 26,000 76,000 Unity Trust Bank, Trust current a/c 509 907 Lloyds TSB, Trust current a/c 150 207 Funds in hand or in course of collection 0 659 0 1,114 Total Trust operating funds 26,659 77,114 Unity Trust Bank, Marketing current a/c and in hand 160 456 Total assets before liabilities 390,236 403,230 L I A B I L I T I E S: Loan reduction falling due within one year Private loans for advance Darnford Park development (9,000) The Charity Bank Ltd; Mortgage loan on Ogley Cottage (6,714) (6,286) Loan outstanding after one year The Charity Bank Ltd; Mortgage loan on Ogley Cottage (218,995) (225,709) (225,709) (231,995) T O T A L N E T R E S O U R C E S £155,527 £171,235 R E S E R V E S: Income & Expenditure Account £155,527 £171,235 NOTES: Ogley Cottage rent deposit lodged with Deposit Protection Service 605 575 This page and the following page are taken from the Trust's accounts for 2012 which are subject to formal examination and presentation to the Annual General Meeting. Any member requiring a full set of the final accounts can obtain one free of charge on application to the Finance Director. 26 Cut Both Ways Spring 2013 LICHFIELD & HATHERTON CANALS RESTORATION TRUST LIMITED DRAFT INCOME & EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2012

2012 to date 2011 I N C O M E £ £ £ £ Subscriptions from members (excl. Marketing below) M 9,331 9,566 Donations M net Trust + Mrktg £5,759 net Trust + Mrktg £6,240 Received with subscriptions 3,927 4,549 Land Fund (incl. Gift Aid tax) 2,179 2,000 Restoration Fund (incl. Gift Aid tax) 3,785 5,986 Other (excl. Marketing collections below) 7,248 17,139 9,109 21,644 Income generated by Marketing and Retail Trading Trust & Public events 3,590 6,859 Membership subscriptions via website, shows, etc. M 797 655 Brick Appeal 635 1,170 500 Club Capital Fund (net of prizes paid out & reserve) 1,246 1,299 Grand Prize Draw 4,267 4,979 Donations, Sponsorship, Advertisements, Interest 2,627 4,706 Net profit from Retail Trading subsidiary company P 2,002 15,164 2,485 22,153 Rent, tax, interest, etc. P net profit £11,705 net profit £16,865 Ogley Cottage rent O 6,960 6,900 Gift Aid tax reclaim (other than specific Funds) 3,880 5,296 Bank credit interest 134 168 Wayleave for electricity line pole at Darnford 12 10,986 11 12,375 SUB-TOTAL REGULAR INCOME 52,620 65,738 Specific Appeal, Grants and Settlements David Suchet Thirty Pound Appeal (incl. Gift Aid tax) 2,890 4,959 Diamond Jubilee Fund for Darnford Park (inc. GA tax) 19,125 Lichfield (2011 LDC S106; SCC SALGS;) 20,000 65,000 Private loans for advance Darnford Park development 9,000 51,015 69,959 TOTAL INCOME in 103,635 135,697 E X P E N D I T U R E Restoration costs Lichfield Canal; Darnford Park - (see Project below) 0 - Tamworth Road, P.27 pre LDC grant 11,515 12,078 Hatherton Canal 0 614 Accommodation & welfare 436 553 Training, Tools, Plant, Machinery (inc.2011 WRG refund) (97) (11,854) 2,488 (15,733) Administrative costs Professional fees and costs 4,188 3,186 Ogley Cottage costs (incl. Insurance) O 815 (C-I ratio 11.7%) 800 (11.6%) Membership and magazine administration M 4,369 (C-I ratio 43.1%) 3,981 (39.0%) Direct cost of Marketing activity (ex 500 Club prizes) P 3,459 (C-I ratio 22.8%) 5,288 (23.9%) Direct cost of Funding Appeals 1,245 - General administration 3,519 3,028 Insurance premium (IWA policy) 1,881 1,793 IWA membership subscription 52 (19,528) 49 (18,125) Project costs Lichfield Canal, Pound 27 S.106 work (2011 Pound 26) 5,900 87,118 Lichfield Canal, Darnford Park 59,265 (65,165) (87,118) Finance charge Interest paid on Charity Bank loan (13,786) (14,114) NET FUNDS MOVEMENT ON TRUST ACTIVITIES out (110,333) (6,698) (135,090) 607 less Depreciation of property and plant (9,010) (9,261) DEFICIT FOR THE YEAR (15,708) (8,654) Retained Surplus brought forward 171,235 179,889 Retained Surplus carried forward £155,527 £171,235

(This page does not form part of the formal accounts, only a summary of the totals.) 27 Cut Both Ways Spring 2013 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Notice is hereby given that the 23rd Annual General Meeting of the Lichfield and Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust Ltd. will be held at Park View Centre, Chester Road North, Brownhills, Walsall WS8 7JB on Friday 7th June 2013 at 7.15 pm. AGENDA 1. Apologies. 2. Minutes of the 22nd Annual General Meeting 15th June 2012. 3. Matters Arising. 4. Directors’ Report. 5. Treasurer’s Report and Presentation of Accounts for the year ended 31st December 2012. 6. Chairman’s Report. 7. Election of Directors: (a) Directors retiring by rotation and eligible to stand for re-election: Michael Battisson, Robert Williams, Robert Mullarkey (b) Directors co-opted during the year and nominated by Council for election: Terence Edwin Brown (c) Any other nominations received. 8. Appointment of Auditor: Dains - Chartered Accountants. 9. Any Other Business. 10. Close of formal business. 11. Guest Speaker. Dr Geraint Coles , Development Manager at Chesterfield Canal Partnership “How NOT to restore a canal - experiences and pitfalls from the Chesterfield Canal!”

After the AGM, tea and biscuits will be served with an opportunity to view displays and sales material.

Note 1: A member entitled to attend and vote is entitled to appoint a proxy. A Form of Proxy can be obtained from the Company Secretary (Sue Williams), to whom they should be returned at least 48 hours before the time appointed for the meeting.

Note 2: A summary of the 2012 Annual Accounts, subject to approval, is included in this magazine. Any member wanting a copy of the full accounts in advance of the meeting should contact the Treasurer, Bob Williams.

Note 3: Non-members are welcome to attend but cannot vote at the AGM.

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Membership rates are: Adult £10; Family £15; Junior (under 18), Student, Retired or Unemployed £6; Group (Clubs & Societies) £25; Corporate £200; Life Membership £200, Family Life Membership £300 (includes children up to age 18). To join, please contact the Membership Secretary (see address page).

1998 DATA PROTECTION ACT The Lichfield & Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust Ltd will hold your details for marketing purposes in accordance with the 1998 Data Protection Act. If you do not wish to receive updates from the Trust or any third party with whom we co-operate then please advise the Trust through Director Bob Williams on 01543 671427.

Back Copies of Cut Both Ways available at £1.00 Each Copies of issues 1 to 74 are available from Sue Williams Norfolk House, 29 Hall Lane, Hammerwich, WS7 0JP Cheques made payable to LHCRT Ltd. 29 Cut Both Ways Spring 2013 LICHFIELD & HATHERTON CANALS RESTORATION TRUST LimiTeD. Registered Office: Island House, Moor Road, Chesham, Bucks. HP5 1WA The Lichfield & Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust Limited was established in 1988 as a non-profit distributing company limited by guarantee (No. 2456172) and is registered as a Charity (No. 702429). Principal Aims : To promote the restoration of the Wyrley and Essington Canal from to Huddlesford Junction (the “Lichfield Canal”), and the Hatherton Branch of the Staffordshire & Worcestershire Canal, and also the construction of a navigable link between the Hatherton Branch and the Birmingham Canal Navigations. President Eric Wood vice-president David Suchet CBE. PATRONS Chris Coburn MBE, Dr David Fletcher CBE, Michael Fabricant MP. DIRECTORS Chairman Vice-Chairman & Land Officer Finance Brian Kingshott David Dixon Bob Williams 01547 530457 - Tel/Fax 01543 258512 – Home 01543 671427 (677687 - Fx) 07831 572642 - Mobile 07807 258957 – Mobile 07973 293834 - Mobile [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Secretary & Web Site Membership Environment & Fundraising Sue Williams Trevor Morris Geoff Crook 01543 671427 (677687 - Fx) 0121 354 7952 01543 254826 07968 168728 - Mobile [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Plant Project Planning IWA Nominee Peter Magee Mike Battisson Vaughan Welch 01889 578289 – Home/Fax 01543 300090 0121 477 9782 – Home 01889 577005 - Work 07984 437284 - Mobile 07971 202406 – Mobile 07973 509232 –Mobile [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Health & Safety Engineering Lichfield Sites Manager Bob Mullarkey (& Lichfield Cruising Club rep) Terry Brown 01543 251408 – Home Peter Buck 01889 576574 - Home 01543 426811 – Work 01543 268041 - Home 07855 810568 – Mobile 07973 719215 – Mobile 07966 123239 - Mobile [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Other Officers Magazine Editor Publicity Officer Membership Assistant Stefan Szulc Mervyn Ainge Pat Ainge 01543 677156 01889 801242 - Home 01889 801242 - Home [email protected] 07775 951106 - Mobile 07850 421851 – Mobile [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Hatherton Work Party Denis Cooper 01543 374370 – Work LICHFIELD & HATHERTON CANALS RETAIL TRADING Limited. Company No 3686837 - Chairman: Brian Kingshott; Secretary: Rob Davies; Finance: Bob Williams web site: www.lhcrt.org.uk 30 Cut Both Ways Spring 2013 31 Cut Both Ways Spring 2013 Braunston Marina are proud to BACK the campaign to save the Lichfield & Hatherton Canals.

keep digging the ground from under their feet! Braunston Marina The Wharf, Braunston, Nr Daventry, Northamptonshire. NN11 7JH Telephone: 01788 891373 Fax: 01788 891436 web site: www.braunstonmarina.co.uk email: [email protected]