You are here:

News

Take a step back in time

2nd Dec 2005

British Waterways is appealing for volunteers to get involved in a successful project which brings the history of the canals to life around the Midlands.

A record number of people now help out with the Working Boats Project, which was set up in 1999 with the objectives of restoring and preserving a number of ex-working canal boats and setting up an educational programme. Funding for the project came from a number of sources with the lead partners being the Heritage Lottery Memorial Fund and British Waterways.

A total of 126 volunteers are now involved in attending events around the Midlands as well as maintaining the fleet of nine boats. They also provide support for the interactive drama ‘Harry’s Cut’ at schools, community events and boating festivals around the region . But project co-ordinator Richard Lacy said he would be delighted to see more people come along and get involved.

"We have a host of events going on throughout the year and the project is growing all the time. There is no need to have any prior interest in boating or any knowledge of the canals as full training will be given – the only thing required is plenty of enthusiasm.

"Volunteers crew the boats on the way to events and when there explain to the public about the history and heritage of the boats, how the working boat people lived, the traditional crafts they used and a host of other tasks. It is great fun and a really interesting way of learning more about your local waterways."

Anybody who would like to get involved in the project can contact Richard on 07876 035 420 or at richard.lacy@britishwaterways.co.uk.

Last updated: 22/10/2008