Boundary Edition 213 Post Summer 2016

Ray Shill & Martin O’Keeffe looking justly proud of the Society’s latest publication “A-Z of the Navigations”. The book was launched at the BCNS Titford Rally in May. It was greeted with much enthusiasm and sold quickly during the rally.

The Journal of the Birmingham Canal Navigations Society Free to members £1 when sold bcnsociety.com Boundary Post Summer 2016 Boundary Post Summer 2016 Council Members - 2015 - 2016 BCNS Social Meetings : Martin O’Keeffe held on the first Thursday in the month Vice-Presidents: Ron Cousens, Phil Clayton, Cllr. David Sparks, Rob Starkey, start at 7-30pmTitford Pumphouse Engine Street Oldbury B69 4NL Chairman & web man: Press & Publicity: CHARLEY JOHNSTON 07825816623 KATH O’KEEFFE All Welcome! [email protected] [email protected] August 4th - Walk with Ray Shill Vice Chair & Rally Organiser Press & Publicity Assistant Meet at 7pm at Bumblehole Visitors Centre, DY2 9HS. Park below in a space at BARRIE JOHNSON 0121 422 4373 MARTIN O’KEEFFE the bottom of the steps off Windmill End. [email protected] [email protected] Any queries email [email protected] or phone 07961177553

Treasurer: Sales: September 1st - The Story of English Pub Signs- The history of many of our fa- DAVE DENT REBECCA SMITH -KEARY vourite pub signs and the important role that pubs have played in our history. 38 Greenland Mews, London, SE8 5JW [email protected] 01562 850234 Dorothy Nicolle 020 8691 9190 [email protected] Supporting members to Council October 6th - The Canal at Coombswood-A History of the No2 Canal Secretary: & Planning Officer IVOR CAPLAN Health & Safety from Coombswood to Hawne Basin incl the tube works. Keith Hodgkins tel: 07778685764 [email protected] Jeffrey Carter

Membership Talks and Presentations ALAN VENESS tel: 0121 355 4732 Phil Clayton 07890921413 Martin Brookes 43 Pilkington Ave, Sutton Coldfield, B72 [email protected] 1LA email: [email protected] FOR ALL YOUR MARINE WORK Work Party Administrator On the Canal, between Stourton and Junctions Michael Smith-Keary 01562 850234 Work Party Co-ordinator: MIKE ROLFE 07763 171735 [email protected] Coach Painting - Building - Fitting Out - Compliance Work [email protected] BCNS Explorer Cruise New Installation - Engine Servicing - Repairs - Welding Buildings & Heritage Stuart & Marie Sherratt 07510167288 Hull Blacking - Breakdown Call Out Service [email protected] VACANT POSITION

Boundary Post Editor BCNS 24 Hour Challenge Diesel Tank cleaning and fuel filtering with minimum need for drilling BRENDA WARD Roy Kenn 01922 428644 or cutting or emptying tank Mobile or at Wharf Service [email protected] 0121 355 6351 John Carrington [email protected] Bookings for Wharf Cranage NOW available Youth/Community Liaison Officer

KATE SELF [email protected] Fundraiser: 07929401682 Mike Butler All Work Personally Undertaken

Waterways Craft Guild Accredited Archives & Heritage Official Photographer Free no obligation quotation IVOR CHAMBERS tel: 0121 707 1690 Ann Johnson [email protected] Atlas & Malus Manager 07802 444370 or [email protected]

Paul Smith: [email protected] Social Secretary The BCN Society, a Company Limited by Guarantee, is a registered charity (1091760) first formed in 1968, which GEOFF WINSLOW exists to conserve, improve and encourage a wide range of interests in the 100 mile network of Birmingham & waterways known as the Birmingham Canal Navigations. Boundary Post is the journal of the BCNS and is [email protected] issued quarterly. Readers are invited to submit items of news, general or historical interest to: The Editor, Brenda Ward. 9 Wylde Green , Sutton Coldfield B72 1HB 2 31 Boundary Post Summer 2016 Boundary Post Summer 2016

After yet another successful Explorer Cruise Contents Page Letters many positive comments were heard. This Council Details 2 Notes from year there were many new comers to the Editorial 3 to the BCN and this note from Nigel & Margaret Chairman’s notes 4 the Editor Editor Smith explains how many of them felt. LHCRT Boundary Post Unveiling 5 Chances Glass Works 6 Titford Pools Update 7 I’ve probably said it before but this July Hi Brenda With the Poets 8 issue of Boundary Post always causes Just got back from our two week cruise on the BCN. Atlas & Malus Report 9 me the most problem. It’s the time we We just wanted to write to say how much we enjoyed the rally. We knew no- New Memberships 10 take our boat out for a trip & this year Pelsall IWA Festival 11 body as we entered the marquee on Friday evening but as we sat down we was no exception. The trouble is never were included in conversations and made to feel most welcome. April, May & June on the BCN 12 24 Hour Challenge Results 14 finding enough to fill the pages thanks Although the Ashby is our local waterway and society we shall endeavour to to all that happens or has happened on attend future BCNS events whenever we can. Birmingham Quay—Ray Shill 15 Urban Badgers on Dudley No2 17 the BCN and thanks to those of you Best wishes Factory Basin Lift Bridge 18 who take the time to tell me about it. Nigel & Margaret Smith Chillington Plaques 20 Book Reviews 22 The variety is as good as ever with Jack Haddock RIP Forgotten Corners of the BCN 23 reports on the Explorer Cruises - three Jack was an exceptional & interesting man known for cycling all over Cruising Titford Pools 25 this year! The third one in August is the area with his camera photographing trains, trams, trolley Photo Quiz Results 26 especially for those attending the Phoenix modifications 27 Pelsall Festival of Water organised by buses and . He had a wide interest taking thousands of photo- Work Party Report Mike Rolfe 28 graphs which are housed in Walsall Archives. After announcing his the IWA. Sounds good - think we might Explorer Cruise Report 29 just be there!! death I have quite a few comments - Letters to the Editor 30 here are just 2:- Jack Haddock RIP 30 The historical articles always find Social Meetings 31 interest with me and this time it’s the Sorry to hear that Factory Basin Lift Bridge that those of He was a dedicated transport historian. you who have visited the Black Country Ray Shill Industrial Historian Living Museum will have seen and Next Boundary Post Dear Brenda wondered where it had been situated Editor welcomes any interesting originally. The fact that it was just a I have just read about the death of Jack Haddock. In the late '70s relevant information relating to short distance away in Tipton is just I had a boat at Ken Keay’s yard being repaired and frequently a amazing. chap would suddenly turn up, always with a camera, telling us he the BCN in the form of news was photographing as much as he could of the Black Country items, photographs, The next copy of Boundary Post will before it changed out of recognition. I can't really recall his name letters, notes or articles to be sent take me to 12 years as editor. I’ve but it sounds as if it could be Jack, and I could probably recognise him from a photograph. decided that it needs a new editor to by Like all the people we met in the Black Country, he was kindness itself, friendly towards us give it a fresh new look. Phil Clayton 'southern foreigners,' giving us a copper kettle for our boat - which we still have and use - September 1st was editor for 9 years and when I took and another time, a copper curved horn - like a hunting horn - which he had made himself. it on I was sure I wouldn’t manage that Although a long time ago I have never forgotten his open kindness and generosity, even Email: [email protected] long but you have all made it easy for though we barely knew one another, and such people are becoming rarer by the day. Address: 9 Wylde Green Road, me especially the great contributors!

Sincerely, Grant Gibson Sutton Coldfield B72 1HB I look forward to telling you who the After seeing his photo, Grant was sure it was Jack—it couldn’t be anyone else! Tel: 01213556351 next editor will be in my final edition. Will it be you? Brenda 30 3 Boundary Post Summer 2016 Boundary Post Summer 2016 Chairman’s This is a result of the generous donations by many members and Future Work Parties Notes supporters, in addition to the insurance from Charley payment. This much larger trailer still August 13th - with the "Challenge." 10 am start. requires some upgrading, for which we Johnston have funds. When the upgrade is September 3rd - Tipton Pre-Rally Clean up. finished, we will be able to resume a full service. Thank you to those who helped Coronation Gardens, Tipton. Looking back, we have had a full and with finding, funding and fixing. successful couple of months – a lot of BCNS events that have gone well – Looking forward, a big change looms. Spring cruise, Explorer cruises, Titford Brenda Ward, who has done such an Yet Another Wonderful Explorer Cruise Rally, the Marathon Challenge. Many outstanding job editing and publishing thanks to those who have put in so Boundary Post for the last 12 years has …….. never mind the Weather!! much hard work. decided that the time has come to step down. She will do so at the end of the Even thunder, lightening, torrential rain and rubbish round the prop couldn't detract The BCN work party crew have been year. Brenda deserves a REALLY BIG from the really enjoyable and informative BCNS Explorer cruise, organised by busy – both on their own, and with the THANK YOU. She will be sorely Stuart and Marie. So much work is put into this venture by BCNS volunteers to IWA on “the missed, but I respect and support her show 'their BCN' off at its best and they certainly cover every angle. From checking Big BCN Clean up”, on the Walsall decision. out moorings to arranging talks and walks- nothing was left to chance. canal. It is impressive to see the We need a replacement (or a wheelers help on longer flights, hot food arrives at really unusual venues, and better amount of rubbish cleared, but replacement team – for editing and pub- than all of that is the friendly atmosphere that the 'Sherratts' encourage between depressing to realise that keeping this lishing could be separated) boaters. If you haven't tried a BCNS Explorer Cruise, get your name down now! cut clear is like painting the Forth Bridge The recruiting scouts are out – but don’t – never ending. What was particularly wait to be buttonholed. If you can help, Jane and Steve Edwards ( NB.Minify) irksome was the number of tyres, which please approach me, either directly or are clearly being dumped on a via the website. commercial scale.

This is so different from the Titford Enjoy the summer on and around the Canal, where, with the Langley BCN Waterside Care, (a team of local residents) the area around the canal is Walk with Ray Shill continuing to look much better. August 4th The difference is involvement of local Meet at 7pm at Bumblehole residents. How we achieve this involvement where we are not local Visitors Centre, DY2 9HS. ourselves is problematic, though increased use of the canal is Park below in a space at the bottom undoubtedly part of the solution. of the steps off Windmill End.

As those of you who joined us at the Any queries email Titford rally have seen, we have a [email protected] or replacement for the stolen Burger Bar. phone 07961177553

4 29 Boundary Post Summer 2016 Boundary Post Summer 2016 On the Sunday, Phoenix and Crow Work Party made another voyage along the David Suchet unveils a Boundary Post Walsall, picking up a large pile of tyres Report from Bull Lane bridge. We returned to Brian & I were honoured to be invited to represent the BCN Society at an unveiling of a base with another good load and boundary post to show that the Canal (part of the Wyrley & ) is of course by Mike Rolfe a part of the BCN. I presented David Suchet with a copy of our new book “A-Z of the joined the queue for unloading by Baz Birmingham Canal Navigations” and also “The Other 60 Miles” with a reference to pages and his grab. After securing our boats, April 9th A cruise back to the Walsall 38 to 39 which features this part of the BCN from to . we then retired to the Waggon & The following account was presented by the LHCRT. canal and Ocker Hill, where Crow and Horses for a well earned pint and Phoenix were left ready for the forth another BCN Clean up was over. Poirot star David Suchet, un- coming BCN Clean up a week later. We Thanks this year to Stuart, Phil, Jeff, veiled a newly refurbished had time to take Phoenix to Barnes Barrie, Adrian, Michael, Beccy, Peter, Boundary Post alongside the Meadow bridge further along the canal, Ben and the many others who helped on Friday 17th where many branches had been on Phoenix and Crow. Also thanks to June. Suchet, who is a Vice dumped around the bridge and in the the WRG and CRT crew who make President of Lichfield and cut. We cleared these away, along with the Clean up happen, and everyone Hatherton Canals Restoration the usual tyres and other floating rub- else who helped over the weekend. Trust, unveiled the post during a bish and returned to Ocker Hill. visit to see the Trust’s progress

May 7th Our Pre-Rally Clean up on and the challenges which lie April 16th/17th The Annual BCN the Titford canal. As usual, Phoenix ahead. Clean up, held again on the Walsall was taken along to the Pools to check David and his wife, Sheila, met Canal. This is as always, a joint event the bridge holes and remove floating up with the Trust’s volunteers featuring BCNS, IWA, WRG, CCT, DCT rubbish. At the same time, some of us along with Cllr Robert Yardley, and CRT. Boats attending were Phoe- stayed at the Pumphouse and tidied Sheriff of Lichfield; Cllr Sheelagh nix, Hawne, Bittel and their respective the car park and around the building, James, Mayor of Lichfield and and Darnford Park in Lichfield, and at Crane butties, plus a CRT Workboat. removing weeds and rubbish. The Cllr David Salter, chairman of Brook near , close to the aqueduct Phoenix and Crow were taken north- Pumphouse lawn was also mowed Council. They which his appeal helped to fund back in 2003. wards from Ocker Hill, before winding ready for the marquee to go up later in were shown the great progress To complete the tour, Suchet unveiled the re- near Darlaston. On our return we the week. since the Suchet’s last visit 10 furbished Birmingham Canal started loading rubbish and scrap pulled years ago at Borrowcop Locks Navigation (BCN) boundary post beside the out of the cut by the WRGies. Tyres and June 4th This Work party took place Walsall Road at the Boat Inn which had been trollies featured prominently amongst on the Old Main line below the Titford donated by John Crowe, the rubbish this year, the trollies being canal. Six volunteers were present, Chairman of Wall Parish kept for weighing in. One thing that including Mike Anson and Simon Council. The post was one of gave us some trouble was a mattress Walker who both came along on their many which once lined the which took the crew of Phoenix and own boats. Bridge holes were edges of the BCN marking the Bittel nearly a hour to remove from the checked, floating rubbish collected and canal company boundary. cut and load into Crow, litter picked, giving Phoenix a The unveiling was assisted by Back at Ocker Hill, the boats were reasonable load. After unloading back Mr Crowe and Brenda Ward unloaded as usual by Baz, Tony and the at the Pumphouse, we went for a pie of the BCN Society, and took crew from CRT, again filling three large and a pint in Oldbury.  place in front of invited guests skips. Metal was separated and taken to and Trust volunteers.  the scrap yard by Barrie and crew in the BCNS truck. 28 5 Boundary Post Summer 2016 Boundary Post Summer 2016 The New BCNS Publication Phoenix to receive some modifications A-Z of the Birmingham Canal Navigations Those of you who have been involved with work parties will be familiar with the overheating problems we have experienced with the engine of our work boat Phoenix. This has become more of a problem when we have been working with our other work boat Crow. This extra work was not in the original specification and is pushing the engine to the limits of its capabilities. A small working party has been created to look at options to rectify the problem and this group (consisting of Mike Butler, Barrie Johnson, Mike Rolfe, Arthur Farge and myself) met with Matt Cooper (of Canal Transport Services) to get his advice especially as he had not so long ago built a replica of Phoenix for a customer. The outcome of this meeting was that it was recommended that we should look to replace the air cooled engine with a water cooled one with a greater horse power. Whilst this may seem rather drastic Phoenix has been in operation for fifteen years and has seen consider- able use, it was also felt that we should make Phoenix as user friendly as possible. Mike Butler thought that a new bid for funding for this work would be possible and that is the current plan although there is a fair bit of work to put a bid together. In the meantime Jeff Carter produced a report with some suggestions for remedial work that would help alleviate the overheating. As a funding bid is a long term plan we have This lovely book has been well received and appreciated by all who have pur- asked Matt Cooper to carry out this work and Phoenix is now at the CTS dock at Norton chased a copy. The Society had sold more than 50 when this went to print. Canes for the work to be carried out. Get your copy from the Sales Stand or by post email: [email protected] Martin O’Keeffe

Saving Iconic Chance Brothers Glass Works

An exciting project has been launched stepped in to rejuvenate this exciting to regenerate the iconic Chance site which is in an area of severe Brothers glassworks in Smethwick - a deprivation. They have now critically important part of Britain’s announced the launch of a charity - industrial heritage. Chances Glass Works Heritage Trust http://www.cgwht.org/ This was once the site of the most technically advanced glassworks in the world whose innovations included the panes of the Crystal Palace, home of the great exhibition of 1851; the revolutionary lenses which made the modern lighthouse possible; and the glass faces of Big Ben. Today, this proud site once employing more than 3 500 people, is listed as “at risk” on the Scheduled Monuments Register of Historic .

Now a group of professionals and enthusiasts from the Black Country have Chance’s Glass Works taken in 2010 6 27 Boundary Post Summer 2016 Boundary Post Summer 2016 Update on Titford Pools Project Photo Quiz result Thank you to the following for their input to the Photo Constructive progress continues between CRT and Highways England to Quiz in the last edition:- develop a significant project to improve water quality, biodiversity, public realm and amenity. A bid was submitted for £1million of EDRF which I think photo on page 25 of latest Boundary Post is the received outline approval. However, Highways England were unable to Stewart and Lloyds boat repair yard on the Dudley No commit £1million of match by the deadline for full submission without further 2. The slips can still be seen. John Dodwell investigation and feasibility works, so the bid is currently on hold until these issues are resolved. Ivor Caplan Barrie Johnson of also gave a correct reply. The BCN Society are progressing in our aim to get the Titford Pools a more accessible amenity for all. Just got the Spring BP, another interesting issue. I think the Photo Quiz location is So far over 80 boats have been awarded our com- Stewarts & Lloyds dock at Coombeswood. I don’t know the date of your photo, but plimentary plaque though many have cruised the I have seen a photo of the dock in use in 1964. (Quiz photo was taken in 1976) Pools several times since our first boats entered Best regards Chris Clegg during the 2014 Pump House Rally. Chris Clegg kindly sourced the following photograph taken in 1964 showing the boat yard in its proper working days. He also gained the permission for us to use it. Note: So far the Society have distributed 100 plaques to boaters who have ventured It just shows much industry on the Dudley No. 2. around the Pools. This shows it can be done!! We’ve just ordered another 100 so come on if you haven’t been there now is your chance to experience cruising around a deep pool in your boat and helping with this project. Email [email protected] for details

Dayboat on slip at boat yard, Stewarts & Lloyds, Coombeswood, Dudley No. 2 Canal, Birmingham Canal Navigations, 1964

Photo: J. G. Parkinson/Online Transport Archive (JGPL89230-45)’

26 7 Boundary Post Summer 2016 Boundary Post Summer 2016 Cruising Titford Pools

With the Poets John Dodwell is a long time canal enthusiast and has been involved with many pro- Phil Clayton jects, restorations and is a CRT Trustee. John is as keen about the BCN as he has been about many other areas and Titford Pools in particular as he explains here: We just happened to be in the Arena Asking if there were any boaters in the Theatre the other day when I spotted a audience, I don’t know whether Jo was For me, one of the purposes of the poster about a as surprised as we were when only Dot annual Titford Rally has been to University Artsfest event publicising and I raised our hands. She mentioned encourage the use of the whole Canal, “An Evening with Jo Bell and Luke that one of her poems was carved on a including the Pools at the top. This is Kennard”. Names ring a bell, I lock beam at Milnsbridge on the not just for boats but to try and ensure thought, and so looked more closely. Huddersfield and was quick to point out the whole area is improved for the “Join well-known poets …. for a lively that some folk thought it was graffiti benefit of local people. Whilst at present evening of poetry and conversation and that the money would have been there's a walkable along the …… Jo was the UK’s first Canal better spent on dredging. Canal as such, the Pools are not acces- Laureate ….. Luke is the current sible. The area could also be used by Why do I do it? Well, apart from Canal Laureate…….” According to the Luke’s pretty new to the cut but has canoeists and anglers. "because it's there", it's an amazing CRT website ….. “The Canal produced work based on a cruise My boat HELEN is a 51ft long 1942 built place to go to. Granted you can cruise Laureate project is part of a wider part- aboard the and Liverpool wide BCN tug which draws 3 ft and has a 24 around Tixall Wide, but there aren't nership between the Canal & River boat Kennet and was responsible for inch propeller- so where HELEN can many other wide pools of water where Trust and Arts Council England, which the poem stencilled in bio-degradable go, most other boats can go as well. you can cruise in circles. And I'd aims to attract more visitors to the wa- paint to accompany CRT’s “Share the I've taken HELEN up to the main Pool argue the wildlife is better than Tixall. terways while surprising and delighting Space, Drop your Pace” towpath for the last three years. Although we do I've seldom seen so many nesting existing communities through exciting initiative. He told us he got much of his catch some rubbish - not surprising with coots as on the Canal leading up to the and innovative art projects.” You can inspiration from pain and embarrass- that draft and that size propeller - we Pools. My photo of two herons doesn't see why they need a poet! ment and I suggested that, as he’s have managed the journey each time. do justice to the scene - there were attending Braunston Historic Narrow- Both entrances/exits to the main Pool actually four in a row! So we went along, prepared to be sur- boat Festival later this month, trying to are used. Just avoid going under the By showing people want to use it, we prised and delighted. A couple of wind a boat in the middle of the rally motorway where it's shallow. This year, bolster the case for improvements. The dozen folk had taken the opportunity to should supply him with plenty. I took HELEN up on the Saturday and Society and others (including CRT) meet the pair of Laureates (or should it Sunday. On the Saturday about a have been working on a Master Plan Reading examples of their non-canal be Couplet?) dozen boats went up including ATLAS which has got to the stage of funding work, both poets shone with their word and the historic wooden cruiser applications being submitted. These Jo started with several of the poems play, imagination, emotion and, well, JEMIMA. On the Sunday, I think there take time to come to fruition but to me she penned about canals during her poetry! I think we can say we were were up to another half-dozen boats. the submission of a funding application laureateship including one describing surprised and delighted. You can read shows the Plan has been costed - so is crossing the Bristol Channel to their poems on the Waterlines website - at quite an advanced stage. Sharpness on her boat Tinker (Jo has I notice that Malus gets a mention, lived on her 67’ for heading for Old Turn, coupled with So , Members, keep up the pressure several years and is currently Aries - is this poetic licence I ask? by using the Pools whenever you between boats) and a hairy account of can...... and if it's your first time, If you fancy the Canal Laureate job one cutting rope from the prop in the don't forget to ask the Society for of the rewards is a bronze mooring pin. middle of Harecastle . the special Titford Pools plaque.  There’s a metaphor there somewhere!

8 25 Boundary Post Summer 2016 Boundary Post Summer 2016

Beyond the Dog and Partridge pub the But a word of warning: Atlas & Malus canal is owned by Hatherton Marinas but This is all private land with no appar- it can be followed through the second ent rights of access so make sure you Report Paul Smith lock now used as a dry dock and then have permission to enter before ex- out through the still operable but privately ploring. If you do follow the course Early May and the pair were on the owned first lock to Hatherton Junction on you will find some lengths piled high move again from Hawne to Titford to the Staffs and Worcester. with infill and in others there is a clas- attend the BCNS Summer Rally at the sic saucer shaped depression all the With two DofE residentials planned for Pump House. Once again we had a If we head west from Pelsall Common, way to the Road, beyond Easter the first trip of the year was to good turnout of crew for this trip. The just before you enter there is which the canal bed is apparent as it bring Malus back from her winter rally itself benefited with some lovely the entrance to the privately owned Lord skirts a lake formed from a collapsed mooring at Titford. Late March saw a sunny weather over the entire week- Hay’s canal, one mile long and opened in mine. The canal bed ends in a two healthy turnout of crew take Atlas from end. Atlas stretched her legs with a 1800 to reach his coal mine and closed forked colliery basin just behind a Hawne to Titford on one day and return trip to Titford pools in convoy with in 1954. There were . no locks and four care home and of more interest The back to Hawne with the pair the several other boats attending the bridges, three of which remain in various Ivy House pub where canal hunter’s following day. event. Entering the pools proved a states of repair. thirsts can be slaked.  The first DofE residential at Easter challenge with a full length boat, not to enjoyed some pleasant spring weather mention a three foot draught. Thanks and followed a revised itinerary which must go to John aboard NB Helen for includes a longer stopover at the his help. Once in the pools though we BCLM, where the students do some had no more issues and we now have voluntary work for the museum. This the plaque to prove we did it! Coombeswood Canal Company also means that A&M are allowed to A big thank you to all who have Hawne Basin (Dudley No. 2) moor inside the museums canal arm helped, Steve, Jeff, Wayne, Charley, Hereward Rise, Halesowen, B62 8AW providing an extra exhibit for visitors, Rob, Phil, Roger, Richard, Roy and 0121 550 1355 Mobile 07761555353 and a guaranteed mooring spot. The Phil W.

Registered Charity No. 1088978 following week the second residential Next on the itinerary is the 24hr took place taking the same route as the Red Diesel (average over last 3 mths) 58p per litre challenge, but you'll have to wait for first. Another change for this year the next issue of BP for that! (10p discount into boats) means A&M have permission Coal Taybrite - 10.75 per 25kg from CRT to moor at Icknield Port and use their facilities. Multifuel - 9.75 per 25kg Calor Gas - 13kg 22.36 With the boats returned to Hawne a work party was Chandlery with a good range in stock and a next-day special order service. organised in mid April. This saw Reasonable prices. Steve and myself tackle the task of fitting Malus's other new side If you’re on the slipway, give us your order the week before and every- sheet. Removing the old one thing will be waiting for you. proved just as time consuming Open Mon to Thurs 10 to 3 Fri to Sun 10 to 4 as when we tackled the first sheet last year. Malus does look a lot smarter now, and hopefully A&M making new friends at the BCLM. watertight!

24 9 Boundary Post Summer 2016 Boundary Post Summer 2016 Welcome New Members Exploring the Forgotten Corners of the BCN From our Membership Secretary Alan Veness By Andy Tidy He would like to welcome the following new members and hope they will join us in the activities of the BCN Society 14 Extention & Hatherton Branch

Some years ago the BCN Society chose to give a one off years membership to With the IWA hosting their campaigning any boaters who entered and Explorer Cruise or the 24 Hour Challenge. As the event at Pelsall Common on the Wyrley Explorer Cruises give priority to non BCNS members this proves very successful. and Essington this summer it seems As Stuart & Marie have planned 3 Explorer Cruises this year and there are many appropriate to take a look at the last new BCN Challengers there are more than usual new complimentary members three unexplored lines on the Northern overall. The first 5 memberships listed below are not complimentary & have BCN, all of which are connected to the joined themselves - We welcome them all. restoration efforts collectively referred Philip Shaw - Prestatyn to as the . Nigel & Margaret Smith - Stoke Golding, Nuneaton Let’s start with the Cannock Extension Paula Bacon-Wilkes, Philip Taylor, & Ryan Wilkes - Brownhills Canal which runs due north from Pel- Graham & Paula Fuller - Quorn, Loughborough sall Common following an arrow David Gobie - Oldbury straight course to the A5 at Norton From Conduit Lane the canal track The following 35 having the inclusive year of membership from entering a Canes where it comes to a very abrupt headed west but there are thin pickings for BCN Explorer Cruise (in May or June) or the BCN 24-hr Challenge. stop. The canal used to run through canal hunters. The line moves on to what Vaughan Knell & Lisa Heath - Llanfyllin, Powys the Cannock coalfield all the way to a was once where the Michael & Lesley Clarke - Sutton Coldfield basin at , but alas the area Churchbridge Locks dropped down to the Malcolm & Barbara Hartas - Romsey, Hants. has since been opencast mined and Hatherton Branch. Sadly the only tangible Dave & Beryl Chapman - Bourne End virtually all traces of the canal have remains is one small ornamental lake to Alan & Heather Thorpe - Rugby been erased. the north west of Sainsburys, which was Rodney Furnell - Peterborough But all is not lost and with a bit of one of the lock pounds. Pam Price - Maidstone bashing through the bushes on the far John & Sara Ellis - Bristol Whilst not strictly BCN, the Churchbridge side of the A5 you will find the line (now Brian & Janet Colling - Stockport Locks led down to the Hatherton Branch dry) continuing for a few hundred yards Barrie & Diane Stanton - Solihull Canal, part of the Staffs and Worcester till you find yourself staring down the Mike & Bonnie Goldberg - Long Beach, California Canal. A drive down the A5 to Walkmill sides of a cutting containing the M6 David & Jenny Stebbens - Sherringham Lane will take you to Wyrley Brook and Toll. If you are prepared to be Bryan & Judy Turner - Crick Brook which collectively follow persistent cross over the (by Colin & Carolyn Shaw - Bere Alston the course of the canal behind Finnings the B4154 bridge!) and park in Conduit Alan Ross - Witney works. Road. Here you will see a high Stephanie Hunt - Maldon embankment looking for all the world If you walk behind the Roman Way Hotel Simon & Karen Witwicki - Yate, South Glos. like a disused railway. But on the top the canal emerges, filled with water and Eric & Sally Naylor - London you will find the blue brick edging of the accompanied by a good towpath which will Robert Bridges & Avril Buhagiar - Dudley old canal plus a bizarrely located take you past dropped bridges and a lock, Graham & Anne Hill - Kettering bridge, a testament to a time when the all the way to the M6 which was built Stephan & Jane Edwards - Birmingham ground levels were very different. without a navigable culvert. 10 23 Boundary Post Summer 2016 Boundary Post Summer 2016 Brindley’s design. Josiah Wedgwood was a backer of the canal as his frag- Charley & Sue Winning - St Austell ile manufactures could be more safely Trevor Baillie - Stapleford, Notts. transported than by pack horse. Philip Strangeway & Karen Holowka - Milton Keynes In its nine chapters Tom Foxon looks Eric & Deb Moss - Kibworth, Leics. at every aspect of a canal that was a Gerald & Linda Towner - Stoke-on-Trent success since its inception. From the Alan & Hilary Rivis - Kirbymoorside, York Midland pottery towns, where the clay Rose Braine - Norbury Junction industry was cited, to the mines and Julia Invernee - Banbury pits where raw materials were ob- Gemma Kinsey - Great Billing, Northampton tained, the T&M built up wide ranging Andrew Stephens - Basingstoke contacts with London, Manchester, Nick Wilcox - Liverpool, Bristol and the overseas Alan Roberts - Burntwood markets. Ian McCarthy - Rossendale This is a well illustrated, well Richard Fairhurst - Chipping Norton organised book, and the captions are th th excellent. The images are wide rang- IWA Festival of Water 26 –29 August 2016 ing and convey the working life of a pottery town and the canals that This Summer Pelsall Common will play host to served it. In these busy scenes we IWA’s August Bank Holiday Festival. The Trent & Mersey Canal see wharves, warehouses, boats be- Over 100 boats are expected to join the festivities (including 20 or so arriving Trade and Transport 1770-1970 ing loaded and on the move, stacks of with the BCNS Explorer Cruise), the location having been chosen to encourage by Tom Foxon, ;196 pages, 18 maps, clay, bricks, gravel, coal, firing kilns greater activity on and around the underused northern section of the 296 b&w illustrations, and the rows of terraced houses BCN. IWA would love to see more boaters taking the opportunity to enjoy the pubs by Black Dwarf, Lydney, 2015, where the workers lived. Everything in unique character of these waterways plus the Festival is a chance for many £25.00, ISBN 9781903599 22 8, fact required for the production of visitors to get to know more about the restoration projects close by. available www.lightmoor.co.uk goods both useful and beautiful. There is no charge for admission and parking is free with mooring or camping Those with an interest in canals Though from the 1840’s the T&M lost for the weekend costing just £35 which includes wristband access to the eve- generally and the Trent & Mersey in much of its trade to the railways it ning entertainment. Music is to be provided by both local and nationally re- particular will not be disappointed in nevertheless remained a profitable nowned artists, many well known to regular boaters - Chase Jazz Band, this excellent book. In his comprehen- and busy means of transportation un- Harvesters, Somerville Gentlemen, Duchess and the Dukes plus Dave Fry and sive account the author tells the story til its demise in 1970. Tom Foxon Braunston Pickle. On arriving at the Festival visitors will be welcomed by a of an industry of great importance to traveling as a young boatman often collection of Classic Cars and a fairground organ with miniature steam engine Britain during the Industrial saw him delivering cargoes on the which will be offering rides around the show. The less than usual sound of Revolution. The Trent & Mersey T&M, so he has much of personal bagpipes will pipe festival goers around the site and children’s entertainment (T&M) had a long and complicated knowledge to relate. Useful maps includes rides, water zorbing, birds of prey, the chance to drive a digger or history. James Brindley drew up show the extent of the T&M’s opera- build a wall with WRG and get up close to some reptiles and mammals such as plans to construct a canal linking the tions. There are good indexes and the a Skunk! Entertainment runs throughout all three days from 10-6 on Saturday Trent and Mersey rivers with the text is well referenced. and Sunday and 10-4 on Monday and on in to the evening for boaters and , it received All in all this is a informative and en- campers. Parliamentary approval in 1766 and joyable read and Tom is to be con- As you would expect there will be lots of food choices and a Real Ale Bar plus was completed in 1777. The gratulated. plenty of shopping opportunities both on and off the water. Harecastle Tunnel was built to  Highly recommended. For more information www.waterways.org.uk/festivalofwater

22 11 Boundary Post Summer 2016 Boundary Post Summer 2016

From the resulting APRIL, MAY & JUNE on the BCN workshops, Pauline Rice provided the art- These three months are the busiest time of the year for our Society. work and Cathy Lewis the poetry to enable April - Spring Cruise Alex Worth to produce April - BCN Clean Up the round castings, as May - Explorer Cruise shown in the May - Titford Rally accompanying May - 24 Hour Challenge photos, recently taken by Phil Wild. June - Explorer Cruise There are three Peter Underwood on N.B.Blackberry Way came on the Spring Cruise & ‘paired’ plaques in- wrote the following report which reflected the voice of many of the cruisers. stalled. The first

lyrical about the industry which lined the pair are shown on the wall of the The Birmingham Canals Navigation interchange basin by the conjunction of Society is a very down to earth group, with banks in his Black Country childhood. Chillington Street and the A41 Bilston much in common with the practical approach Considerable juggling of the many boats in Road bridge. The second pair appears of working canal people. the basins around the lock workshops on the south facing abutment of the It's 2016 Spring Cruise was an example of meant everyone had a chance to see some Walsall Street Bridge nearer to of the fascinating work done in the lock that interest in the practicalities of Wolverhampton. workshops – now one of just two in the canals with a journey from Tipton to the The third pair are also on the south Bradley lock workshops on the dead-end country producing lock gates both wide and narrow. Alongside the old skills of working facing abutment on Cable Street Bridge, Bradley Arm – a shallow and little used just past the A41 Bilston Road. offshoot of the BCN mainline. With more than green oak and steel fittings there are some 25 boats attending, many of them former innovations with polymer replacing some working boats with deep drafts, the journey under water parts previously made from The plaques have rusted since their up the shallow arm was slow but fascinating Elm. installation in 2011 and can easily be as one of the guests aboard our boat, missed when passing, as they merge Blackberry Way said. After returning to Tipton many with the surrounding brickwork.  participants got together for a meal at the Long time BCNS stalwart Dave Pearson led recently opened Gongoozler a walk along the Bradley Locks and waxed restaurant at the new Trust visitors centre.  BCN Clean Up Clears 8 Miles of Report by Chris Morgan, BCN Clean Up Organiser More than 70 volunteers spent two days removing an estimated 44 tonnes of rubbish from the Walsall Canal over the weekend of 16th and 17th April. The people tak- ing part included volunteers from Waterway Recovery Group (WRG), who travelled from far and wide to spend the weekend working on the canal. They were supported each day by dozens of volunteers from IWA, Birmingham Canal Navigations Society, Dudley Canal Trust, Coombeswood Canal Trust, CRT, Friends of Tipton Cut and local residents.

12 21 Boundary Post Summer 2016 Boundary Post Summer 2016 Titford Rally CHILLINGTON PLAQUES & the New Burger Bar Phil Wild spends a great deal of his spare time photographing places of Those of you who were unable to join us interest around the BCN. Just recently he came across some unusual at the Titford rally may not be aware that plaques and so thought some research was in order. Here he shows the we have been able to find a replacement plaques and tells us about Chillington Iron Works and the interchange basin. for the stolen Burger Bar. Thanks to the generous donations by many members The Chillington Iron Works was built by but in later years it was merged with and supporters, plus a payment from our three founders, John Barker, James other depots to form Wolverhampton Insurers, we were able to acquire a suit- Foster & George Jones in 1822, on the Steel Terminal. No longer in use today, able trailer without the immediate need to site of Stowheath Manor. The works it is Heritage listed and has it’s find additional funding. The new, much larger, trailer requires was the first one in the Wolverhampton distinctive Babcock & Wilcox Overhead Marie Sherratt, one half of the area and in addition to operating 4 Crane, still in situ. It is though in neglect some upgrading for which Council has organisation of the May Explorer Cruise furnaces by 1839, it also had it’s own and its distinctive Shed Roof appears to approved funding. However thanks as on their boat on the Daw End Canal. coal and iron ore mines, rolling mills and require urgent attention to preserve usual to our hard working members we foundries. what is now a unique structure in the 24 Hour Challenge were able to offer almost a full service at . In 2010 the then BW, in Titford. We will now work on further im-

A 2’ 6” tramway was built to connect the conjunction with local partnerships, provements to ensure we can resume This year Nikki & John who had en- site to a basin adjoining the main canal coordinated by the ABCD (All Saints & normal service as soon as possible. tered the 24 Hour Challenge in the in Horseley Fields in 1829. Originally Blakenhall Community Development) Thanks you to all who helped with the past on their boat Peckham Poppy one basin, it was later doubled as trade Partnership, secured substantial funding funding and/or the work to provide us decided to leave their boat at home & increased and a boatyard was to improve the Canal access in the with first class facilities for the future. walk the BCN instead. They managed established for maintaining the area, including realignment of the brick- Dave Dent 28 miles over the allotted time. Company boats. The Company went work at several bridge locations. into receivership in 1885 and by 1893 The results of the Duck Race held on Sunday 15th May 2016 at the top lock Titford was as the LNWR had acquired the site to As part of this work a community based make into a railway interchange basin, follows: heritage project was developed to connected by a new branch line up to record the history of the area and its First duck- £25 -no 94. Tina N/B the main Stour Valley line. General meaning in a series of plaques to be Cornelian Second duck -£15 -no 105 Sherratt Brownhills interchange traffic remained until 1963 Third duck -£5 -no 55 Hazel Hebrin B48 placed near to those improvements. All prize winners have been contacted. Coordination was Many thanks to all those who sponsored a provided by the Ice- duck this year. house Company, led Ann Tilman Duck Master 2016 by Eliza Botham and BCN 24 Hour Challenge the project included Note from Roy & John input from Bilston C of E Primary School and Next years BCNS Challenge is scheduled for Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th May. the ELNP Group (Ettingshall Local Please make a note in your diary for reasons Neighbourhood that will be explained shortly we intend to Partnership). make this a very special event Top Ten results on next page. 20 13 Boundary Post Summer 2016 Boundary Post Summer 2016 The bridge simply Top Ten results of BCN 24 Hour Challenge created a short cut for Andrea & Andrew Hoyle on Dove won the Trolley Trophy for the best collection of rubbish - . This & the trophy for coming top in the Challenge to be presented at the AGM . Though its working life ENTRANT BOAT / TEAM NAME POINTS was short. The canal interchange traffic Julia Ivermee William and Gosport 347.2 finished in 1949 and the yard closed Simon Hopwood Stalham 314.4 completely in 1968. It Darren Matthews Carpe Vinum 312.5 seems unlikely that John Mosley Firefly the deck was raised to 295.2 allow boats into the Tony Friar Belloil 294.6 inner basin after the second world war. Andrew Hoyle Dove 282.55 However, its historical Tom Murkin Diesel and Dust interest did not go 277.4 un-noticed and in 1971 it was rescued The lift bridge just after reconstruction Richard Powell Tawny Owl 258.4 by the County Museum at the Museum in 1977. and put into storage at Shugborough Kevin Day Cicilia 246.4 Mike Moorse Guelrose until being acquired by the Black Country Museum in 1977, where it was re- 244.8 stored and re-erected at the entrance to the Museum`s .

A present day scene at the Black Country Museum with the deck raised to allow a boat to pass.

14 19 Boundary Post Summer 2016 Boundary Post Summer 2016

Factory Basin Lift Bridge. The Warwick & Birmingham Canal Keith Hodgkins in Birmingham

Part 3b Birmingham Quay - Sampson Road Depot This unique lifting Ray Shill bridge was built by the in their Ray Shill concludes this subject for Boundary Post but there is more detail. If you Factory Basin Goods would like to see a copy of the complete article written when these buildings were Yard off Bloomfield in danger of demolition then email me at - [email protected]. Road Tipton in 1922 to allow easier vehicular access to The first part of the warehouse the canal and railway was brought into service during interchange wharves. the summer of 1937 and an The road deck could official opening ceremony was be raised by a conducted on September 27th, manual winch to 1938, by the Birmingham Lord allow canal boats to Mayor, Mr E.R Canning. The enter the inner basin. Minister of Transport. Leslie Surprisingly, despite Burgin, had been requested to the plethora of engi- perform this task but was neering firms in the The first picture is of Factory Basin Goods Yard from the unable to attend due to the Black Country the air in 1949 with the lift bridge at the centre. Note also “European crisis”. Despite bridge was not manu- Bloomfield Road with the old Factory Bridge, Malthouse completion of the warehouse Stables with several moored boats and the Old Bush pub factured locally. The Grand Company structural work was (now the and Barrel). work continued to finish the site and this Warehouses 2014 included the new two-storey office block made by Armstrong and Main at their Germiston works in Glasgow, whilst the The main buildings were constructed that fronted Sampson Road North. The gearing mechanism was supplied by Armstrong, Whitworth and Co from their as a storage warehouse, 30,000 total cost of warehouse and offices at Elswick works at Newcastle-on-Tyne square ft in area. It was built to suit the Sampson Road was £33,417. 11.3. This needs of midland manufacturers and was £1,167.11.3 over authorisation; The second photo shows the lift came as a result of modern motorised offices cost £405.14.10 more than bridge looking the worse for wear transport and mechanised means of £3,000 estimate. Then additional works in 1957. loading and unloading these craft as carried out including reconstruction of well as road vehicles that conveyed Road traffic must have increased wharf approach and entrance from main goods to and from the local factories. significantly in the early 1920s to road due to the erection of the new Mechanical handling included seven have justified the installation of the offices, alterations & additions to store travelling and fixed electric cranes that bridge as access to the middle room to provide mess room for boatmen could unload 7 boats at a time. Equal and various smaller items. loading wharves was already possible by driving around the facilities for unloading road vehicles were also provided . In addition to the main warehouse inner basin. buildings and offices there is another 18 15 Boundary Post Summer 2016 Boundary Post Summer 2016

Group of buildings near Sampson action and the costs of the legal pro- Urban Badgers on the Dudley No. 2 Road North entrance gates, these are ceedings led to his bankruptcy. a single storey group on the north side. Following the establishment of Birming- Earlier this year we changed our moorings from Longwood Boat Club on the Daw ham Quay many of the coal merchants End Branch of the Wyrley & Essington Canal to Hawne Basin at the end of the wharves were removed, but open navigable Dudley No 2 Canal just for a change. wharves were retained along the canal We had been there many times before but in January when the ground was south of long basin. relatively bear we noticed holes in the canal bank about half way from Windmill End to the Basin. I sent these photos to Paul Wilkinson CRT Senior Ecologist Henley Street, Birmingham who confirmed “This is a badger sett and badgers are expanding into new areas, Corporation, Permanent Way Yard although this is one of the more urban to date.” The following notes were taken Birmingham Corporation used part of the from various articles on the Midland Badger research web site. canal wharf for the receipt of material by canal. A lease was taken (March 26th, Urban badgers are actually big- 1915) for a Permanent Way yard and ger than their rural cousins depot serving the Corporation 3ft 6in because so many people put gauge tramway network. This depot out food for them. These groups of warehouses and wharves passed to the Docks & Inland included a large rectangular iron clad The animals are highly pro- Waterways Executive (South Eastern building as is shown on the 1938 Ord- tected so you need a licence if Division) from January 1st 1948 and nance survey. you are going to interfere in any- after the abolition of that executive, way with a sett. British Transport Waterways. From Henley Street Depot was linked to the Family group size tends to be 1963 the carrying operation passed to tramway network. Birmingham smaller for urban badgers, and the warehouses Corporation decided to gradually close which average about five or six and offices became part of BW the tramway network and the PW Depot came to have less use. It was closed animals, while in rural places, (Southern Region). up to about 30 badgers can live during 1946 and was then let for other purposes: in a main sett The Wharf and Basin The former tramway depot (now re- South of the warehouses was the now moved) appears to have belonged to the According to a Midland study of in filled long basin and the remains of firm E Holden, Brassfounders.  urban badgers it appears that the former wharf. This wharf was  they are a different beast to originally used by a number of coal  those found in the countryside. merchants, coal factors and timber Ray wrote this article that has appeared It says "Urban badgers differ in merchants. Carr, James Miller & Co over the past 3 editions of Boundary their behaviour and ecology to Ltd, stone merchants were trading rural populations in terms of 19 Post to show the importance of there in 1884 Bernardo Fabbricotti Birmingham Quay, otherwise known as diet, population dynamics, social also used a section for his marble Sampson Road Depot at a time when organisation and ranging/ merchant’s trade George Gettins had demolishion was considered. So far dispersal behaviour". established a marble merchants trade nothing has been done. Let us hope that here in 1884, but had been made Ray has helped the retention of such a bankrupt in 1887, following a court interesting series of buildings around the Let us know if you see any case related to damaged marble depot. badger setts anywhere else brought from Belgium. Gettins lost this on the BCN.

16 17 Boundary Post Summer 2016 Boundary Post Summer 2016

Group of buildings near Sampson action and the costs of the legal pro- Urban Badgers on the Dudley No. 2 Road North entrance gates, these are ceedings led to his bankruptcy. a single storey group on the north side. Following the establishment of Birming- Earlier this year we changed our moorings from Longwood Boat Club on the Daw ham Quay many of the coal merchants End Branch of the Wyrley & Essington Canal to Hawne Basin at the end of the wharves were removed, but open navigable Dudley No 2 Canal just for a change. wharves were retained along the canal We had been there many times before but in January when the ground was south of long basin. relatively bear we noticed holes in the canal bank about half way from Windmill End to the Basin. I sent these photos to Paul Wilkinson CRT Senior Ecologist Henley Street, Birmingham who confirmed “This is a badger sett and badgers are expanding into new areas, Corporation, Permanent Way Yard although this is one of the more urban to date.” The following notes were taken Birmingham Corporation used part of the from various articles on the Midland Badger research web site. canal wharf for the receipt of material by canal. A lease was taken (March 26th, Urban badgers are actually big- 1915) for a Permanent Way yard and ger than their rural cousins depot serving the Corporation 3ft 6in because so many people put gauge tramway network. This depot out food for them. These groups of warehouses and wharves passed to the Docks & Inland included a large rectangular iron clad The animals are highly pro- Waterways Executive (South Eastern building as is shown on the 1938 Ord- tected so you need a licence if Division) from January 1st 1948 and nance survey. you are going to interfere in any- after the abolition of that executive, way with a sett. British Transport Waterways. From Henley Street Depot was linked to the Family group size tends to be 1963 the carrying operation passed to tramway network. Birmingham smaller for urban badgers, British Waterways and the warehouses Corporation decided to gradually close which average about five or six and offices became part of BW the tramway network and the PW Depot came to have less use. It was closed animals, while in rural places, (Southern Region). up to about 30 badgers can live during 1946 and was then let for other purposes: in a main sett The Wharf and Basin The former tramway depot (now re- South of the warehouses was the now moved) appears to have belonged to the According to a Midland study of in filled long basin and the remains of firm E Holden, Brassfounders.  urban badgers it appears that the former wharf. This wharf was  they are a different beast to originally used by a number of coal  those found in the countryside. merchants, coal factors and timber Ray wrote this article that has appeared It says "Urban badgers differ in merchants. Carr, James Miller & Co over the past 3 editions of Boundary their behaviour and ecology to Ltd, stone merchants were trading rural populations in terms of 19 Post to show the importance of there in 1884 Bernardo Fabbricotti Birmingham Quay, otherwise known as diet, population dynamics, social also used a section for his marble Sampson Road Depot at a time when organisation and ranging/ merchant’s trade George Gettins had demolishion was considered. So far dispersal behaviour". established a marble merchants trade nothing has been done. Let us hope that here in 1884, but had been made Ray has helped the retention of such a bankrupt in 1887, following a court interesting series of buildings around the Let us know if you see any case related to damaged marble depot. badger setts anywhere else brought from Belgium. Gettins lost this on the BCN.

16 17 Boundary Post Summer 2016 Boundary Post Summer 2016

Factory Basin Lift Bridge. The Warwick & Birmingham Canal Keith Hodgkins in Birmingham

Part 3b Birmingham Quay - Sampson Road Depot This unique lifting Ray Shill bridge was built by the Great Western Railway in their Ray Shill concludes this subject for Boundary Post but there is more detail. If you Factory Basin Goods would like to see a copy of the complete article written when these buildings were Yard off Bloomfield in danger of demolition then email me at - [email protected]. Road Tipton in 1922 to allow easier vehicular access to The first part of the warehouse the canal and railway was brought into service during interchange wharves. the summer of 1937 and an The road deck could official opening ceremony was be raised by a conducted on September 27th, manual winch to 1938, by the Birmingham Lord allow canal boats to Mayor, Mr E.R Canning. The enter the inner basin. Minister of Transport. Leslie Surprisingly, despite Burgin, had been requested to the plethora of engi- perform this task but was neering firms in the The first picture is of Factory Basin Goods Yard from the unable to attend due to the Black Country the air in 1949 with the lift bridge at the centre. Note also “European crisis”. Despite bridge was not manu- Bloomfield Road with the old Factory Bridge, Malthouse completion of the warehouse Stables with several moored boats and the Old Bush pub factured locally. The Company structural work was (now the Barge and Barrel). work continued to finish the site and this Warehouses 2014 included the new two-storey office block made by Armstrong and Main at their Germiston works in Glasgow, whilst the The main buildings were constructed that fronted Sampson Road North. The gearing mechanism was supplied by Armstrong, Whitworth and Co from their as a storage warehouse, 30,000 total cost of warehouse and offices at Elswick works at Newcastle-on-Tyne square ft in area. It was built to suit the Sampson Road was £33,417. 11.3. This needs of midland manufacturers and was £1,167.11.3 over authorisation; The second photo shows the lift came as a result of modern motorised offices cost £405.14.10 more than bridge looking the worse for wear transport and mechanised means of £3,000 estimate. Then additional works in 1957. loading and unloading these craft as carried out including reconstruction of well as road vehicles that conveyed Road traffic must have increased wharf approach and entrance from main goods to and from the local factories. significantly in the early 1920s to road due to the erection of the new Mechanical handling included seven have justified the installation of the offices, alterations & additions to store travelling and fixed electric cranes that bridge as access to the middle room to provide mess room for boatmen could unload 7 boats at a time. Equal and various smaller items. loading wharves was already possible by driving around the facilities for unloading road vehicles were also provided . In addition to the main warehouse inner basin. buildings and offices there is another 18 15 Boundary Post Summer 2016 Boundary Post Summer 2016 The bridge simply Top Ten results of BCN 24 Hour Challenge created a short cut for Andrea & Andrew Hoyle on Dove won the Trolley Trophy for the best collection of rubbish - vehicles. This & the trophy for coming top in the Challenge to be presented at the AGM . Though its working life ENTRANT BOAT / TEAM NAME POINTS was short. The canal interchange traffic Julia Ivermee William and Gosport 347.2 finished in 1949 and the yard closed Simon Hopwood Stalham 314.4 completely in 1968. It Darren Matthews Carpe Vinum 312.5 seems unlikely that John Mosley Firefly the deck was raised to 295.2 allow boats into the Tony Friar Belloil 294.6 inner basin after the second world war. Andrew Hoyle Dove 282.55 However, its historical Tom Murkin Diesel and Dust interest did not go 277.4 un-noticed and in 1971 it was rescued The lift bridge just after reconstruction Richard Powell Tawny Owl 258.4 by the Staffordshire County Museum at the Museum in 1977. and put into storage at Shugborough Kevin Day Cicilia 246.4 Mike Moorse Guelrose until being acquired by the Black Country Museum in 1977, where it was re- 244.8 stored and re-erected at the entrance to the Museum`s canal basin.

A present day scene at the Black Country Museum with the deck raised to allow a boat to pass.

14 19 Boundary Post Summer 2016 Boundary Post Summer 2016 Titford Rally CHILLINGTON PLAQUES & the New Burger Bar Phil Wild spends a great deal of his spare time photographing places of Those of you who were unable to join us interest around the BCN. Just recently he came across some unusual at the Titford rally may not be aware that plaques and so thought some research was in order. Here he shows the we have been able to find a replacement plaques and tells us about Chillington Iron Works and the interchange basin. for the stolen Burger Bar. Thanks to the generous donations by many members The Chillington Iron Works was built by but in later years it was merged with and supporters, plus a payment from our three founders, John Barker, James other depots to form Wolverhampton Insurers, we were able to acquire a suit- Foster & George Jones in 1822, on the Steel Terminal. No longer in use today, able trailer without the immediate need to site of Stowheath Manor. The works it is Heritage listed and has it’s find additional funding. The new, much larger, trailer requires was the first one in the Wolverhampton distinctive Babcock & Wilcox Overhead Marie Sherratt, one half of the area and in addition to operating 4 Crane, still in situ. It is though in neglect some upgrading for which Council has organisation of the May Explorer Cruise furnaces by 1839, it also had it’s own and its distinctive Shed Roof appears to approved funding. However thanks as on their boat on the Daw End Canal. coal and iron ore mines, rolling mills and require urgent attention to preserve usual to our hard working members we foundries. what is now a unique structure in the 24 Hour Challenge were able to offer almost a full service at West Midlands. In 2010 the then BW, in Titford. We will now work on further im-

A 2’ 6” tramway was built to connect the conjunction with local partnerships, provements to ensure we can resume This year Nikki & John who had en- site to a basin adjoining the main canal coordinated by the ABCD (All Saints & normal service as soon as possible. tered the 24 Hour Challenge in the in Horseley Fields in 1829. Originally Blakenhall Community Development) Thanks you to all who helped with the past on their boat Peckham Poppy one basin, it was later doubled as trade Partnership, secured substantial funding funding and/or the work to provide us decided to leave their boat at home & increased and a boatyard was to improve the Canal access in the with first class facilities for the future. walk the BCN instead. They managed established for maintaining the area, including realignment of the brick- Dave Dent 28 miles over the allotted time. Company boats. The Company went work at several bridge locations. into receivership in 1885 and by 1893 The results of the Duck Race held on Sunday 15th May 2016 at the top lock Titford was as the LNWR had acquired the site to As part of this work a community based make into a railway interchange basin, follows: heritage project was developed to connected by a new branch line up to record the history of the area and its First duck- £25 -no 94. Tina N/B the main Stour Valley line. General meaning in a series of plaques to be Cornelian Second duck -£15 -no 105 Sherratt Brownhills interchange traffic remained until 1963 Third duck -£5 -no 55 Hazel Hebrin B48 placed near to those improvements. All prize winners have been contacted. Coordination was Many thanks to all those who sponsored a provided by the Ice- duck this year. house Company, led Ann Tilman Duck Master 2016

by Eliza Botham and BCN 24 Hour Challenge the project included Note from Roy & John input from Bilston C of E Primary School and Next years BCNS Challenge is scheduled for Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th May. the ELNP Group (Ettingshall Local Please make a note in your diary for reasons Neighbourhood that will be explained shortly we intend to Partnership). make this a very special event Top Ten results on next page. 20 13 Boundary Post Summer 2016 Boundary Post Summer 2016

From the resulting APRIL, MAY & JUNE on the BCN workshops, Pauline Rice provided the art- These three months are the busiest time of the year for our Society. work and Cathy Lewis the poetry to enable April - Spring Cruise Alex Worth to produce April - BCN Clean Up the round castings, as May - Explorer Cruise shown in the May - Titford Rally accompanying May - 24 Hour Challenge photos, recently taken by Phil Wild. June - Explorer Cruise There are three Peter Underwood on N.B.Blackberry Way came on the Spring Cruise & ‘paired’ plaques in- wrote the following report which reflected the voice of many of the cruisers. stalled. The first lyrical about the industry which lined the pair are shown on the wall of the The Birmingham Canals Navigation interchange basin by the conjunction of Society is a very down to earth group, with banks in his Black Country childhood. Chillington Street and the A41 Bilston much in common with the practical approach Considerable juggling of the many boats in Road bridge. The second pair appears of working canal people. the basins around the lock workshops on the south facing abutment of the It's 2016 Spring Cruise was an example of meant everyone had a chance to see some Walsall Street Bridge nearer to of the fascinating work done in the lock that interest in the practicalities of Wolverhampton. workshops – now one of just two in the canals with a journey from Tipton to the The third pair are also on the south Bradley lock workshops on the dead-end country producing lock gates both wide and narrow. Alongside the old skills of working facing abutment on Cable Street Bridge, Bradley Arm – a shallow and little used just past the A41 Bilston Road. offshoot of the BCN mainline. With more than green oak and steel fittings there are some 25 boats attending, many of them former innovations with polymer replacing some working boats with deep drafts, the journey under water parts previously made from The plaques have rusted since their up the shallow arm was slow but fascinating Elm. installation in 2011 and can easily be as one of the guests aboard our boat, missed when passing, as they merge Blackberry Way said. After returning to Tipton many with the surrounding brickwork.  participants got together for a meal at the Long time BCNS stalwart Dave Pearson led recently opened Gongoozler a walk along the Bradley Locks and waxed restaurant at the new Dudley Canal Trust visitors centre.  BCN Clean Up Clears 8 Miles of Walsall Canal Report by Chris Morgan, BCN Clean Up Organiser More than 70 volunteers spent two days removing an estimated 44 tonnes of rubbish from the Walsall Canal over the weekend of 16th and 17th April. The people tak- ing part included volunteers from Waterway Recovery Group (WRG), who travelled from far and wide to spend the weekend working on the canal. They were supported each day by dozens of volunteers from IWA, Birmingham Canal Navigations Society, Dudley Canal Trust, Coombeswood Canal Trust, CRT, Friends of Tipton Cut and local residents.

12 21 Boundary Post Summer 2016 Boundary Post Summer 2016 Brindley’s design. Josiah Wedgwood was a backer of the canal as his frag- Charley & Sue Winning - St Austell ile manufactures could be more safely Trevor Baillie - Stapleford, Notts. transported than by pack horse. Philip Strangeway & Karen Holowka - Milton Keynes In its nine chapters Tom Foxon looks Eric & Deb Moss - Kibworth, Leics. at every aspect of a canal that was a Gerald & Linda Towner - Stoke-on-Trent success since its inception. From the Alan & Hilary Rivis - Kirbymoorside, York Midland pottery towns, where the clay Rose Braine - Norbury Junction industry was cited, to the mines and Julia Invernee - Banbury pits where raw materials were ob- Gemma Kinsey - Great Billing, Northampton tained, the T&M built up wide ranging Andrew Stephens - Basingstoke contacts with London, Manchester, Nick Wilcox - Rugeley Liverpool, Bristol and the overseas Alan Roberts - Burntwood markets. Ian McCarthy - Rossendale This is a well illustrated, well Richard Fairhurst - Chipping Norton organised book, and the captions are th th excellent. The images are wide rang- IWA Festival of Water 26 –29 August 2016 ing and convey the working life of a pottery town and the canals that This Summer Pelsall Common will play host to served it. In these busy scenes we IWA’s August Bank Holiday Festival. The Trent & Mersey Canal see wharves, warehouses, boats be- Over 100 boats are expected to join the festivities (including 20 or so arriving Trade and Transport 1770-1970 ing loaded and on the move, stacks of with the BCNS Explorer Cruise), the location having been chosen to encourage by Tom Foxon, ;196 pages, 18 maps, clay, bricks, gravel, coal, firing kilns greater activity on and around the underused northern section of the 296 b&w illustrations, and the rows of terraced houses BCN. IWA would love to see more boaters taking the opportunity to enjoy the pubs by Black Dwarf, Lydney, 2015, where the workers lived. Everything in unique character of these waterways plus the Festival is a chance for many £25.00, ISBN 9781903599 22 8, fact required for the production of visitors to get to know more about the restoration projects close by. available www.lightmoor.co.uk goods both useful and beautiful. There is no charge for admission and parking is free with mooring or camping Those with an interest in canals Though from the 1840’s the T&M lost for the weekend costing just £35 which includes wristband access to the eve- generally and the Trent & Mersey in much of its trade to the railways it ning entertainment. Music is to be provided by both local and nationally re- particular will not be disappointed in nevertheless remained a profitable nowned artists, many well known to regular boaters - Chase Jazz Band, this excellent book. In his comprehen- and busy means of transportation un- Harvesters, Somerville Gentlemen, Duchess and the Dukes plus Dave Fry and sive account the author tells the story til its demise in 1970. Tom Foxon Braunston Pickle. On arriving at the Festival visitors will be welcomed by a of an industry of great importance to traveling as a young boatman often collection of Classic Cars and a fairground organ with miniature steam engine Britain during the Industrial saw him delivering cargoes on the which will be offering rides around the show. The less than usual sound of Revolution. The Trent & Mersey T&M, so he has much of personal bagpipes will pipe festival goers around the site and children’s entertainment (T&M) had a long and complicated knowledge to relate. Useful maps includes rides, water zorbing, birds of prey, the chance to drive a digger or history. James Brindley drew up show the extent of the T&M’s opera- build a wall with WRG and get up close to some reptiles and mammals such as plans to construct a canal linking the tions. There are good indexes and the a Skunk! Entertainment runs throughout all three days from 10-6 on Saturday Trent and Mersey rivers with the text is well referenced. and Sunday and 10-4 on Monday and on in to the evening for boaters and Bridgewater Canal, it received All in all this is a informative and en- campers. Parliamentary approval in 1766 and joyable read and Tom is to be con- As you would expect there will be lots of food choices and a Real Ale Bar plus was completed in 1777. The gratulated. plenty of shopping opportunities both on and off the water. Harecastle Tunnel was built to  Highly recommended. For more information www.waterways.org.uk/festivalofwater

22 11 Boundary Post Summer 2016 Boundary Post Summer 2016 Welcome New Members Exploring the Forgotten Corners of the BCN From our Membership Secretary Alan Veness By Andy Tidy He would like to welcome the following new members and hope they will join us in the activities of the BCN Society 14 Cannock Extention & Hatherton Branch

Some years ago the BCN Society chose to give a one off years membership to With the IWA hosting their campaigning any boaters who entered and Explorer Cruise or the 24 Hour Challenge. As the event at Pelsall Common on the Wyrley Explorer Cruises give priority to non BCNS members this proves very successful. and Essington this summer it seems As Stuart & Marie have planned 3 Explorer Cruises this year and there are many appropriate to take a look at the last new BCN Challengers there are more than usual new complimentary members three unexplored lines on the Northern overall. The first 5 memberships listed below are not complimentary & have BCN, all of which are connected to the joined themselves - We welcome them all. restoration efforts collectively referred Philip Shaw - Prestatyn to as the Hatherton Canal. Nigel & Margaret Smith - Stoke Golding, Nuneaton Let’s start with the Cannock Extension Paula Bacon-Wilkes, Philip Taylor, & Ryan Wilkes - Brownhills Canal which runs due north from Pel- Graham & Paula Fuller - Quorn, Loughborough sall Common following an arrow David Gobie - Oldbury straight course to the A5 at Norton From Conduit Lane the canal track The following 35 having the inclusive year of membership from entering a Canes where it comes to a very abrupt headed west but there are thin pickings for BCN Explorer Cruise (in May or June) or the BCN 24-hr Challenge. stop. The canal used to run through canal hunters. The line moves on to what Vaughan Knell & Lisa Heath - Llanfyllin, Powys the Cannock coalfield all the way to a was once Rumer Hill Junction where the Michael & Lesley Clarke - Sutton Coldfield basin at Hednesford, but alas the area Churchbridge Locks dropped down to the Malcolm & Barbara Hartas - Romsey, Hants. has since been opencast mined and Hatherton Branch. Sadly the only tangible Dave & Beryl Chapman - Bourne End virtually all traces of the canal have remains is one small ornamental lake to Alan & Heather Thorpe - Rugby been erased. the north west of Sainsburys, which was Rodney Furnell - Peterborough But all is not lost and with a bit of one of the lock pounds. Pam Price - Maidstone bashing through the bushes on the far John & Sara Ellis - Bristol Whilst not strictly BCN, the Churchbridge side of the A5 you will find the line (now Brian & Janet Colling - Stockport Locks led down to the Hatherton Branch dry) continuing for a few hundred yards Barrie & Diane Stanton - Solihull Canal, part of the Staffs and Worcester till you find yourself staring down the Mike & Bonnie Goldberg - Long Beach, California Canal. A drive down the A5 to Walkmill sides of a cutting containing the M6 David & Jenny Stebbens - Sherringham Lane will take you to Wyrley Brook and Toll. If you are prepared to be Bryan & Judy Turner - Crick Saredon Brook which collectively follow persistent cross over the M6 Toll (by Colin & Carolyn Shaw - Bere Alston the course of the canal behind Finnings the B4154 bridge!) and park in Conduit Alan Ross - Witney works. Road. Here you will see a high Stephanie Hunt - Maldon embankment looking for all the world If you walk behind the Roman Way Hotel Simon & Karen Witwicki - Yate, South Glos. like a disused railway. But on the top the canal emerges, filled with water and Eric & Sally Naylor - London you will find the blue brick edging of the accompanied by a good towpath which will Robert Bridges & Avril Buhagiar - Dudley old canal plus a bizarrely located take you past dropped bridges and a lock, Graham & Anne Hill - Kettering bridge, a testament to a time when the all the way to the M6 which was built Stephan & Jane Edwards - Birmingham ground levels were very different. without a navigable culvert. 10 23 Boundary Post Summer 2016 Boundary Post Summer 2016

Beyond the Dog and Partridge pub the But a word of warning: Atlas & Malus canal is owned by Hatherton Marinas but This is all private land with no appar- it can be followed through the second ent rights of access so make sure you Report Paul Smith lock now used as a dry dock and then have permission to enter before ex- out through the still operable but privately ploring. If you do follow the course Early May and the pair were on the owned first lock to Hatherton Junction on you will find some lengths piled high move again from Hawne to Titford to the Staffs and Worcester. with infill and in others there is a clas- attend the BCNS Summer Rally at the sic saucer shaped depression all the With two DofE residentials planned for Pump House. Once again we had a If we head west from Pelsall Common, way to the Stafford Road, beyond Easter the first trip of the year was to good turnout of crew for this trip. The just before you enter Bloxwich there is which the canal bed is apparent as it bring Malus back from her winter rally itself benefited with some lovely the entrance to the privately owned Lord skirts a lake formed from a collapsed mooring at Titford. Late March saw a sunny weather over the entire week- Hay’s canal, one mile long and opened in mine. The canal bed ends in a two healthy turnout of crew take Atlas from end. Atlas stretched her legs with a 1800 to reach his coal mine and closed forked colliery basin just behind a Hawne to Titford on one day and return trip to Titford pools in convoy with in 1954. There were . no locks and four care home and of more interest The back to Hawne with the pair the several other boats attending the bridges, three of which remain in various Ivy House pub where canal hunter’s following day. event. Entering the pools proved a states of repair. thirsts can be slaked.  The first DofE residential at Easter challenge with a full length boat, not to enjoyed some pleasant spring weather mention a three foot draught. Thanks and followed a revised itinerary which must go to John aboard NB Helen for includes a longer stopover at the his help. Once in the pools though we BCLM, where the students do some had no more issues and we now have voluntary work for the museum. This the plaque to prove we did it! Coombeswood Canal Company also means that A&M are allowed to A big thank you to all who have Hawne Basin (Dudley No. 2) moor inside the museums canal arm helped, Steve, Jeff, Wayne, Charley, Hereward Rise, Halesowen, B62 8AW providing an extra exhibit for visitors, Rob, Phil, Roger, Richard, Roy and 0121 550 1355 Mobile 07761555353 and a guaranteed mooring spot. The Phil W.

Registered Charity No. 1088978 following week the second residential Next on the itinerary is the 24hr took place taking the same route as the Red Diesel (average over last 3 mths) 58p per litre challenge, but you'll have to wait for first. Another change for this year the next issue of BP for that! (10p discount into boats) means A&M have permission Coal Taybrite - 10.75 per 25kg from CRT to moor at Icknield Port and use their facilities. Multifuel - 9.75 per 25kg Calor Gas - 13kg 22.36 With the boats returned to Hawne a work party was Chandlery with a good range in stock and a next-day special order service. organised in mid April. This saw Reasonable prices. Steve and myself tackle the task of fitting Malus's other new side If you’re on the slipway, give us your order the week before and every- sheet. Removing the old one thing will be waiting for you. proved just as time consuming Open Mon to Thurs 10 to 3 Fri to Sun 10 to 4 as when we tackled the first sheet last year. Malus does look a lot smarter now, and hopefully A&M making new friends at the BCLM. watertight!

24 9 Boundary Post Summer 2016 Boundary Post Summer 2016 Cruising Titford Pools

With the Poets John Dodwell is a long time canal enthusiast and has been involved with many pro- Phil Clayton jects, restorations and is a CRT Trustee. John is as keen about the BCN as he has been about many other areas and Titford Pools in particular as he explains here: We just happened to be in the Arena Asking if there were any boaters in the Theatre the other day when I spotted a audience, I don’t know whether Jo was For me, one of the purposes of the poster about a Wolverhampton as surprised as we were when only Dot annual Titford Rally has been to University Artsfest event publicising and I raised our hands. She mentioned encourage the use of the whole Canal, “An Evening with Jo Bell and Luke that one of her poems was carved on a including the Pools at the top. This is Kennard”. Names ring a bell, I lock beam at Milnsbridge on the not just for boats but to try and ensure thought, and so looked more closely. Huddersfield and was quick to point out the whole area is improved for the “Join well-known poets …. for a lively that some folk thought it was graffiti benefit of local people. Whilst at present evening of poetry and conversation and that the money would have been there's a walkable towpath along the …… Jo was the UK’s first Canal better spent on dredging. Canal as such, the Pools are not acces- Laureate ….. Luke is the current sible. The area could also be used by Why do I do it? Well, apart from Canal Laureate…….” According to the Luke’s pretty new to the cut but has canoeists and anglers. "because it's there", it's an amazing CRT website ….. “The Canal produced work based on a cruise My boat HELEN is a 51ft long 1942 built place to go to. Granted you can cruise Laureate project is part of a wider part- aboard the Leeds and Liverpool wide BCN tug which draws 3 ft and has a 24 around Tixall Wide, but there aren't nership between the Canal & River boat Kennet and was responsible for inch propeller- so where HELEN can many other wide pools of water where Trust and Arts Council England, which the poem stencilled in bio-degradable go, most other boats can go as well. you can cruise in circles. And I'd aims to attract more visitors to the wa- paint to accompany CRT’s “Share the I've taken HELEN up to the main Pool argue the wildlife is better than Tixall. terways while surprising and delighting Space, Drop your Pace” towpath for the last three years. Although we do I've seldom seen so many nesting existing communities through exciting initiative. He told us he got much of his catch some rubbish - not surprising with coots as on the Canal leading up to the and innovative art projects.” You can inspiration from pain and embarrass- that draft and that size propeller - we Pools. My photo of two herons doesn't see why they need a poet! ment and I suggested that, as he’s have managed the journey each time. do justice to the scene - there were attending Braunston Historic Narrow- Both entrances/exits to the main Pool actually four in a row! So we went along, prepared to be sur- boat Festival later this month, trying to are used. Just avoid going under the By showing people want to use it, we prised and delighted. A couple of wind a boat in the middle of the rally motorway where it's shallow. This year, bolster the case for improvements. The dozen folk had taken the opportunity to should supply him with plenty. I took HELEN up on the Saturday and Society and others (including CRT) meet the pair of Laureates (or should it Sunday. On the Saturday about a have been working on a Master Plan Reading examples of their non-canal be Couplet?) dozen boats went up including ATLAS which has got to the stage of funding work, both poets shone with their word and the historic wooden cruiser applications being submitted. These Jo started with several of the poems play, imagination, emotion and, well, JEMIMA. On the Sunday, I think there take time to come to fruition but to me she penned about canals during her poetry! I think we can say we were were up to another half-dozen boats. the submission of a funding application laureateship including one describing surprised and delighted. You can read shows the Plan has been costed - so is crossing the Bristol Channel to their poems on the Waterlines website - at quite an advanced stage. Sharpness on her boat Tinker (Jo has I notice that Malus gets a mention, lived on her 67’ narrowboat for heading for Old Turn, coupled with So , Members, keep up the pressure several years and is currently Aries - is this poetic licence I ask? by using the Pools whenever you between boats) and a hairy account of can...... and if it's your first time, If you fancy the Canal Laureate job one cutting rope from the prop in the don't forget to ask the Society for of the rewards is a bronze mooring pin. middle of Harecastle Tunnel. the special Titford Pools plaque.  There’s a metaphor there somewhere!

8 25 Boundary Post Summer 2016 Boundary Post Summer 2016 Update on Titford Pools Project Photo Quiz result Thank you to the following for their input to the Photo Constructive progress continues between CRT and Highways England to Quiz in the last edition:- develop a significant project to improve water quality, biodiversity, public realm and amenity. A bid was submitted for £1million of EDRF which I think photo on page 25 of latest Boundary Post is the received outline approval. However, Highways England were unable to Stewart and Lloyds boat repair yard on the Dudley No commit £1million of match by the deadline for full submission without further 2. The slips can still be seen. John Dodwell investigation and feasibility works, so the bid is currently on hold until these issues are resolved. Ivor Caplan Barrie Johnson of Halesowen also gave a correct reply. The BCN Society are progressing in our aim to get the Titford Pools a more accessible amenity for all. Just got the Spring BP, another interesting issue. I think the Photo Quiz location is So far over 80 boats have been awarded our com- Stewarts & Lloyds dock at Coombeswood. I don’t know the date of your photo, but plimentary plaque though many have cruised the I have seen a photo of the dock in use in 1964. (Quiz photo was taken in 1976) Pools several times since our first boats entered Best regards Chris Clegg during the 2014 Pump House Rally. Chris Clegg kindly sourced the following photograph taken in 1964 showing the boat yard in its proper working days. He also gained the permission for us to use it. Note: So far the Society have distributed 100 plaques to boaters who have ventured It just shows much industry on the Dudley No. 2. around the Pools. This shows it can be done!! We’ve just ordered another 100 so come on if you haven’t been there now is your chance to experience cruising around a deep pool in your boat and helping with this project. Email [email protected] for details

Dayboat on slip at boat yard, Stewarts & Lloyds, Coombeswood, Dudley No. 2 Canal, Birmingham Canal Navigations, 1964

Photo: J. G. Parkinson/Online Transport Archive (JGPL89230-45)’

26 7 Boundary Post Summer 2016 Boundary Post Summer 2016 The New BCNS Publication Phoenix to receive some modifications A-Z of the Birmingham Canal Navigations Those of you who have been involved with work parties will be familiar with the overheating problems we have experienced with the engine of our work boat Phoenix. This has become more of a problem when we have been working with our other work boat Crow. This extra work was not in the original specification and is pushing the engine to the limits of its capabilities. A small working party has been created to look at options to rectify the problem and this group (consisting of Mike Butler, Barrie Johnson, Mike Rolfe, Arthur Farge and myself) met with Matt Cooper (of Canal Transport Services) to get his advice especially as he had not so long ago built a replica of Phoenix for a customer. The outcome of this meeting was that it was recommended that we should look to replace the air cooled engine with a water cooled one with a greater horse power. Whilst this may seem rather drastic Phoenix has been in operation for fifteen years and has seen consider- able use, it was also felt that we should make Phoenix as user friendly as possible. Mike Butler thought that a new bid for funding for this work would be possible and that is the current plan although there is a fair bit of work to put a bid together. In the meantime Jeff Carter produced a report with some suggestions for remedial work that would help alleviate the overheating. As a funding bid is a long term plan we have This lovely book has been well received and appreciated by all who have pur- asked Matt Cooper to carry out this work and Phoenix is now at the CTS dock at Norton chased a copy. The Society had sold more than 50 when this went to print. Canes for the work to be carried out. Get your copy from the Sales Stand or by post email: [email protected] Martin O’Keeffe

Saving Iconic Chance Brothers Glass Works

An exciting project has been launched stepped in to rejuvenate this exciting to regenerate the iconic Chance site which is in an area of severe Brothers glassworks in Smethwick - a deprivation. They have now critically important part of Britain’s announced the launch of a charity - industrial heritage. Chances Glass Works Heritage Trust http://www.cgwht.org/ This was once the site of the most technically advanced glassworks in the world whose innovations included the panes of the Crystal Palace, home of the great exhibition of 1851; the revolutionary lenses which made the modern lighthouse possible; and the glass faces of Big Ben. Today, this proud site once employing more than 3 500 people, is listed as “at risk” on the Scheduled Monuments Register of Historic England.

Now a group of professionals and enthusiasts from the Black Country have Chance’s Glass Works taken in 2010 6 27 Boundary Post Summer 2016 Boundary Post Summer 2016 On the Sunday, Phoenix and Crow Work Party made another voyage along the David Suchet unveils a Boundary Post Walsall, picking up a large pile of tyres Report from Bull Lane bridge. We returned to Brian & I were honoured to be invited to represent the BCN Society at an unveiling of a base with another good load and boundary post to show that the Lichfield Canal (part of the Wyrley & Essington) is of course by Mike Rolfe a part of the BCN. I presented David Suchet with a copy of our new book “A-Z of the joined the queue for unloading by Baz Birmingham Canal Navigations” and also “The Other 60 Miles” with a reference to pages and his grab. After securing our boats, April 9th A cruise back to the Walsall 38 to 39 which features this part of the BCN from Ogley Junction to Huddlesford Junction. we then retired to the Waggon & The following account was presented by the LHCRT. canal and Ocker Hill, where Crow and Horses for a well earned pint and Phoenix were left ready for the forth another BCN Clean up was over. Poirot star David Suchet, un- coming BCN Clean up a week later. We Thanks this year to Stuart, Phil, Jeff, veiled a newly refurbished had time to take Phoenix to Barnes Barrie, Adrian, Michael, Beccy, Peter, Boundary Post alongside the Meadow bridge further along the canal, Ben and the many others who helped Lichfield Canal on Friday 17th where many branches had been on Phoenix and Crow. Also thanks to June. Suchet, who is a Vice dumped around the bridge and in the the WRG and CRT crew who make President of Lichfield and cut. We cleared these away, along with the Clean up happen, and everyone Hatherton Canals Restoration the usual tyres and other floating rub- else who helped over the weekend. Trust, unveiled the post during a bish and returned to Ocker Hill. visit to see the Trust’s progress

May 7th Our Pre-Rally Clean up on and the challenges which lie April 16th/17th The Annual BCN the Titford canal. As usual, Phoenix ahead. Clean up, held again on the Walsall was taken along to the Pools to check David and his wife, Sheila, met Canal. This is as always, a joint event the bridge holes and remove floating up with the Trust’s volunteers featuring BCNS, IWA, WRG, CCT, DCT rubbish. At the same time, some of us along with Cllr Robert Yardley, and CRT. Boats attending were Phoe- stayed at the Pumphouse and tidied Sheriff of Lichfield; Cllr Sheelagh nix, Hawne, Bittel and their respective the car park and around the building, James, Mayor of Lichfield and and Darnford Park in Lichfield, and at Crane butties, plus a CRT Workboat. removing weeds and rubbish. The Cllr David Salter, chairman of Brook near Brownhills, close to the aqueduct Phoenix and Crow were taken north- Pumphouse lawn was also mowed Lichfield District Council. They which his appeal helped to fund back in 2003. wards from Ocker Hill, before winding ready for the marquee to go up later in were shown the great progress To complete the tour, Suchet unveiled the re- near Darlaston. On our return we the week. since the Suchet’s last visit 10 furbished Birmingham Canal started loading rubbish and scrap pulled years ago at Borrowcop Locks Navigation (BCN) boundary post beside the out of the cut by the WRGies. Tyres and June 4th This Work party took place Walsall Road at the Boat Inn which had been trollies featured prominently amongst on the Old Main line below the Titford donated by John Crowe, the rubbish this year, the trollies being canal. Six volunteers were present, Chairman of Wall Parish kept for weighing in. One thing that including Mike Anson and Simon Council. The post was one of gave us some trouble was a mattress Walker who both came along on their many which once lined the which took the crew of Phoenix and own boats. Bridge holes were edges of the BCN marking the Bittel nearly a hour to remove from the checked, floating rubbish collected and canal company boundary. cut and load into Crow, towpaths litter picked, giving Phoenix a The unveiling was assisted by Back at Ocker Hill, the boats were reasonable load. After unloading back Mr Crowe and Brenda Ward unloaded as usual by Baz, Tony and the at the Pumphouse, we went for a pie of the BCN Society, and took crew from CRT, again filling three large and a pint in Oldbury.  place in front of invited guests skips. Metal was separated and taken to and Trust volunteers.  the scrap yard by Barrie and crew in the BCNS truck. 28 5 Boundary Post Summer 2016 Boundary Post Summer 2016 Chairman’s This is a result of the generous donations by many members and Future Work Parties Notes supporters, in addition to the insurance from Charley payment. This much larger trailer still August 13th - Titford canal with the "Challenge." 10 am start. requires some upgrading, for which we Johnston have funds. When the upgrade is September 3rd - Tipton Pre-Rally Clean up. finished, we will be able to resume a full service. Thank you to those who helped Coronation Gardens, Tipton. Looking back, we have had a full and with finding, funding and fixing. successful couple of months – a lot of BCNS events that have gone well – Looking forward, a big change looms. Spring cruise, Explorer cruises, Titford Brenda Ward, who has done such an Yet Another Wonderful Explorer Cruise Rally, the Marathon Challenge. Many outstanding job editing and publishing thanks to those who have put in so Boundary Post for the last 12 years has …….. never mind the Weather!! much hard work. decided that the time has come to step down. She will do so at the end of the Even thunder, lightening, torrential rain and rubbish round the prop couldn't detract The BCN work party crew have been year. Brenda deserves a REALLY BIG from the really enjoyable and informative BCNS Explorer cruise, organised by busy – both on their own, and with the THANK YOU. She will be sorely Stuart and Marie. So much work is put into this venture by BCNS volunteers to IWA Waterway Recovery Group on “the missed, but I respect and support her show 'their BCN' off at its best and they certainly cover every angle. From checking Big BCN Clean up”, on the Walsall decision. out moorings to arranging talks and walks- nothing was left to chance. Lock canal. It is impressive to see the We need a replacement (or a wheelers help on longer flights, hot food arrives at really unusual venues, and better amount of rubbish cleared, but replacement team – for editing and pub- than all of that is the friendly atmosphere that the 'Sherratts' encourage between depressing to realise that keeping this lishing could be separated) boaters. If you haven't tried a BCNS Explorer Cruise, get your name down now! cut clear is like painting the Forth Bridge The recruiting scouts are out – but don’t – never ending. What was particularly wait to be buttonholed. If you can help, Jane and Steve Edwards ( NB.Minify) irksome was the number of tyres, which please approach me, either directly or are clearly being dumped on a via the website. commercial scale.

This is so different from the Titford Enjoy the summer on and around the Canal, where, with the Langley BCN Waterside Care, (a team of local residents) the area around the canal is Walk with Ray Shill continuing to look much better. August 4th The difference is involvement of local Meet at 7pm at Bumblehole residents. How we achieve this involvement where we are not local Visitors Centre, DY2 9HS. ourselves is problematic, though increased use of the canal is Park below in a space at the bottom undoubtedly part of the solution. of the steps off Windmill End.

As those of you who joined us at the Any queries email Titford rally have seen, we have a [email protected] or replacement for the stolen Burger Bar. phone 07961177553

4 29 Boundary Post Summer 2016 Boundary Post Summer 2016

After yet another successful Explorer Cruise Contents Page Letters many positive comments were heard. This Council Details 2 Notes from year there were many new comers to the Editorial 3 to the BCN and this note from Nigel & Margaret Chairman’s notes 4 the Editor Editor Smith explains how many of them felt. LHCRT Boundary Post Unveiling 5 Chances Glass Works 6 Titford Pools Update 7 I’ve probably said it before but this July Hi Brenda With the Poets 8 issue of Boundary Post always causes Just got back from our two week cruise on the BCN. Atlas & Malus Report 9 me the most problem. It’s the time we We just wanted to write to say how much we enjoyed the rally. We knew no- New Memberships 10 take our boat out for a trip & this year Pelsall IWA Festival 11 body as we entered the marquee on Friday evening but as we sat down we was no exception. The trouble is never were included in conversations and made to feel most welcome. April, May & June on the BCN 12 24 Hour Challenge Results 14 finding enough to fill the pages thanks Although the Ashby is our local waterway and society we shall endeavour to to all that happens or has happened on attend future BCNS events whenever we can. Birmingham Quay—Ray Shill 15 Urban Badgers on Dudley No2 17 the BCN and thanks to those of you Best wishes Factory Basin Lift Bridge 18 who take the time to tell me about it. Nigel & Margaret Smith Chillington Plaques 20 Book Reviews 22 The variety is as good as ever with Jack Haddock RIP Forgotten Corners of the BCN 23 reports on the Explorer Cruises - three Jack was an exceptional & interesting man known for cycling all over Cruising Titford Pools 25 this year! The third one in August is the Walsall area with his camera photographing trains, trams, trolley Photo Quiz Results 26 especially for those attending the Phoenix modifications 27 Pelsall Festival of Water organised by buses and canals. He had a wide interest taking thousands of photo- Work Party Report Mike Rolfe 28 graphs which are housed in Walsall Archives. After announcing his the IWA. Sounds good - think we might Explorer Cruise Report 29 just be there!! death I have quite a few comments - Letters to the Editor 30 here are just 2:- Jack Haddock RIP 30 The historical articles always find Social Meetings 31 interest with me and this time it’s the Sorry to hear that Factory Basin Lift Bridge that those of He was a dedicated transport historian. you who have visited the Black Country Ray Shill Industrial Historian Living Museum will have seen and Next Boundary Post Dear Brenda wondered where it had been situated Editor welcomes any interesting originally. The fact that it was just a I have just read about the death of Jack Haddock. In the late '70s relevant information relating to short distance away in Tipton is just I had a boat at Ken Keay’s yard being repaired and frequently a amazing. chap would suddenly turn up, always with a camera, telling us he the BCN in the form of news was photographing as much as he could of the Black Country items, photographs, The next copy of Boundary Post will before it changed out of recognition. I can't really recall his name letters, notes or articles to be sent take me to 12 years as editor. I’ve but it sounds as if it could be Jack, and I could probably recognise him from a photograph. decided that it needs a new editor to by Like all the people we met in the Black Country, he was kindness itself, friendly towards us give it a fresh new look. Phil Clayton 'southern foreigners,' giving us a copper kettle for our boat - which we still have and use - September 1st was editor for 9 years and when I took and another time, a copper curved horn - like a hunting horn - which he had made himself. it on I was sure I wouldn’t manage that Although a long time ago I have never forgotten his open kindness and generosity, even Email: [email protected] long but you have all made it easy for though we barely knew one another, and such people are becoming rarer by the day. Address: 9 Wylde Green Road, me especially the great contributors!

Sincerely, Grant Gibson Sutton Coldfield B72 1HB I look forward to telling you who the After seeing his photo, Grant was sure it was Jack—it couldn’t be anyone else! Tel: 01213556351 next editor will be in my final edition. Will it be you? Brenda 30 3 Boundary Post Summer 2016 Boundary Post Summer 2016 Council Members - 2015 - 2016 BCNS Social Meetings President : Martin O’Keeffe held on the first Thursday in the month Vice-Presidents: Ron Cousens, Phil Clayton, Cllr. David Sparks, Rob Starkey, start at 7-30pmTitford Pumphouse Engine Street Oldbury B69 4NL Chairman & web man: Press & Publicity: CHARLEY JOHNSTON 07825816623 KATH O’KEEFFE All Welcome! [email protected] [email protected] August 4th - Walk with Ray Shill Vice Chair & Rally Organiser Press & Publicity Assistant Meet at 7pm at Bumblehole Visitors Centre, DY2 9HS. Park below in a space at BARRIE JOHNSON 0121 422 4373 MARTIN O’KEEFFE the bottom of the steps off Windmill End. [email protected] [email protected] Any queries email [email protected] or phone 07961177553

Treasurer: Sales: September 1st - The Story of English Pub Signs- The history of many of our fa- DAVE DENT REBECCA SMITH -KEARY vourite pub signs and the important role that pubs have played in our history. 38 Greenland Mews, London, SE8 5JW [email protected] 01562 850234 Dorothy Nicolle 020 8691 9190 [email protected] Supporting members to Council October 6th - The Canal at Coombswood-A History of the Dudley No2 Canal Secretary: & Planning Officer IVOR CAPLAN Health & Safety from Coombswood to Hawne Basin incl the tube works. Keith Hodgkins tel: 07778685764 [email protected] Jeffrey Carter

Membership Talks and Presentations ALAN VENESS tel: 0121 355 4732 Phil Clayton 07890921413 Martin Brookes 43 Pilkington Ave, Sutton Coldfield, B72 [email protected] 1LA email: [email protected] FOR ALL YOUR MARINE WORK Work Party Administrator On the , between Stourton and Wordsley Junctions Michael Smith-Keary 01562 850234 Work Party Co-ordinator: MIKE ROLFE 07763 171735 [email protected] Coach Painting - Boat Building - Fitting Out - Compliance Work [email protected] BCNS Explorer Cruise New Installation - Engine Servicing - Repairs - Welding Buildings & Heritage Stuart & Marie Sherratt 07510167288 Hull Blacking - Breakdown Call Out Service [email protected] VACANT POSITION

Boundary Post Editor BCNS 24 Hour Challenge Diesel Tank cleaning and fuel filtering with minimum need for drilling BRENDA WARD Roy Kenn 01922 428644 or cutting or emptying tank Mobile or at Wharf Service [email protected] 0121 355 6351 John Carrington [email protected] Bookings for Wharf Cranage NOW available Youth/Community Liaison Officer

KATE SELF [email protected] Fundraiser: 07929401682 Mike Butler All Work Personally Undertaken

Waterways Craft Guild Accredited Archives & Heritage Boats Official Photographer Free no obligation quotation IVOR CHAMBERS tel: 0121 707 1690 Ann Johnson [email protected] Atlas & Malus Manager 07802 444370 or [email protected]

Paul Smith: [email protected] Social Secretary The BCN Society, a Company Limited by Guarantee, is a registered charity (1091760) first formed in 1968, which GEOFF WINSLOW exists to conserve, improve and encourage a wide range of interests in the 100 mile network of Birmingham & Black Country waterways known as the Birmingham Canal Navigations. Boundary Post is the journal of the BCNS and is [email protected] issued quarterly. Readers are invited to submit items of news, general or historical interest to: The Editor, Brenda Ward. 9 Wylde Green Road, Sutton Coldfield B72 1HB 2 31

Boundary Edition 213 Post Summer 2016

Ray Shill & Martin O’Keeffe looking justly proud of the Society’s latest publication “A-Z of the Birmingham Canal Navigations”. The book was launched at the BCNS Titford Rally in May. It was greeted with much enthusiasm and sold quickly during the rally.

The Journal of the Birmingham Canal Navigations Society Free to members £1 when sold bcnsociety.com