BCN Boats at the Black Country Living History Musuem

Further to my piece in the last issue of BP I was contacted by Francis Stpaleton who is involved with the preservation and restoration of "joey" boats and is involved with the looking after the Black Country Living History Musuem boats. Francis said that there was only a limited amount of funds available at the musuem for their boats. Following on from this at the last council meeting it was decided that BCNS would make a grant of £300 towards the cost of the wood for a new stem post for"Birchills". This was presented to Lan Walden of BCLHM at our Pumphouse Boat Gathering. It is intended that this work will be undertaken over the coming winter.

BCN Treasure Hunt

This year we acted as the sponser for this event, however the administration and organisation was carried out again by Pat Barton. Despite a few less boats than previous years the boats cruised much of the BCN. We provided the barbeques for a get together at Walsall on the Saturday evening. Certainly those taking part in the event felt that it was worhwhile getting boats on the less well used sections of the BCN.

Pumphouse Boat Gathering

Having recognised that we were somewhat lacking in the publicity last year Andy Meek made strenuous efforts to ensure that the media were provided with information about this year's event. Indeed we had coverage both on local radio and in the papers. Leafleting was also carried out in the local shops in Langley.

What we could'nt plan for was the awful weather on the Saturday, however Sunday was much a better day and we had good attendance, with our stalls doing well and the trip boat operating throughout the day.

What we hadn't allowed for was the lock gate falling off the second from top lock of the Titford flight on Saturday night.

British Waterways engineering staff were summoned and visitors to the rally were given a demonstration of gate replacement which certainly added to the fun!

The flight was reopened in the early afternoon and boats were able to get away without too much disruption.

Finally....

A number of you will be aware that I had an enforced period off work during the past few months. What I have realised during this time is the great problem that I have living in Gloucester and trying to deal with things BCNS sixty odd miles away.

Perhaps it is time to take life a little easier in the future too and all the travelling to and from work each day has taken its toll over the years.

I also think that it may be time for some fresh ideas to come forward within the society.

Therefore I have decided that I shall not be standing for the post of Chairman of the managing council at the AGM in November.

I know this may be a surprise, but I have been in the chair for nearly eight years and feel it is time for a change.I may be persuaded to continue to look after the sales side of things and perhaps with a little more time to devote to it can put this back on track.

I would like also some time to attend to "Hecla" which has rather languished over the past few years and to continue researching aspects of BCN history which I rarely have much time for at the present.

There is never a good time for such change but hope that you all will understand the reason why I have come to this decision.