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Getting Involved Again
I was recently asked at an event "What's the Society up to at the moment?" I must admit I was a little bit stumped, we seem to be involved with all sorts of events but what else do we do? Well of course Phoenix is out and about collecting rubbish and we attended many events both locally and nationally with our stand. We have also been hiring out our marquee to other societies which is a big commitment in time and labour. But what can the members get involved with? My suggestion that people come forward to assist with events did not produce a deluge of offers, but we did get some(and they have my thanks). But what project would be of interest then? Should we get involved with restoring Bradley Lock flight? Whatever we do, and I would appreciate any comments and suggestions, it requires commitment from more than just the BCNS council.
We do urgently need help with this year's Bonfire Rally.
Setting up the site on Thursday 30th October and Friday 31st October.
Acting as marshalls and helping around the site on Saturday 1st November.
Assisting with taking it all down on the morning of Sunday 2nd November.
This is an urgent request otherwise we will have to look at whether we can realistically hold these events in the future. Please contact David Hill or Barie Johnson for further information.
Wolverhampton Canal Side Development
Well as you may have read the warehouse building at Wolverhampton was demolished and a link with the early canal carriers from the beginning of the 19th century was lost. A great shame and a missed opportunity, the result of blinkered outlook from the local authority and a lack of knowledge from the developers Redrow Homes.
In discussions with Roger Herrington, British Waterways manager for the BCN it was agreed that there would be meetings between BCNS, BW and other interested parties so that we could share knowledge and try to ensure that this does not happen again. An initial meeting has been held at which the Wolverhampton area was discussed. The intention is to hold further meetings, so that the whole of the BCN is covered.
Lichfield & Hatherton Canal Restoration
August 16th was a red letter day for our friends at the L & HCRT when the steel work of the troughs which will carry the Wyrley and Essington Canal over the M6 Toll motorway were placed in position. Whilst it may be a few years before a boat crosses the aqueduct it will be a visual remainder to all the motorists who will pass under it every day when the motorway opens.
Our congratulations to L & HCRT for their marvellous achievement in raising the money to pay for it.
Canal History Workshop Saturday 22nd November 2003
At the Boat Museum, South Pier Rd, Ellesmere Port, Cheshire CH65 4FW in their conference facility. The workshop will commence at 10.00 and finish at 16.30.
The day will consist of four presentations on various aspects of waterways history. This year there will be a focus on the northern waterways. Speakers will include Tony Hirst talking about the Weaver Navigation and Mike Clarke whose subject is the Leeds and Liverpool Canal.
Tea and coffe will be served on arrival and in the afternoon and delegates should make their own luncheon arrangements; the museum has its own cafetaria.
The price for the day is £12.50 and bookings should be sent to Mrs N.M O'Keeffe, 8 Brookfield, Whitchurch, Shropshire, SY13 1DU. Cheques payable to the BCN Society.
Walsall Local History Centre
From the 14th October 2003 everybody who uses the local history centre will need a "CARN" readers ticket. These can be issued by the centre on production of official identification with your name, printed adress and signature.