Post on 22-Jul-2016
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The Magazine of the North Cheshire Cruising Club
CELEBRATIONS FOR
JUNE
BIRTHDAYS
1st Diane Sinclair – STEDI ALKEE
3rd
Viv Thorpe
8th
Martin Tattersall – QUANTUM
15th David Taylor – CAMPSIE LASS
18th Alan Fosbrook – CYGNET
20th
Lawrence Maloney
20th Michelle Wright – FLEUR DENISE
22nd
Edna Roberts – CINDY
22nd
Tim Taylor – FOXY LADY
29th Clair Webster – ROWTON MOOR
ANNIVERSARIES
1
St Val & Colin Buckland
2nd
Barbara & Adrian Palmer
3rd
Diane & Steve Sinclair – STEDI ALKEE 13
th Sheila & Tim Dawson – JAMBALAYA
26th Barbara & John Palmer – LOCK STOCK & BARRELL
27th Maggie & Derek Jones – CAPTAIN FLINT
28th Glenys & David Critchlow – WILD ROSE
CELEBRATIONS FOR
JULY
BIRTHDAYS
5th
Ron Axon – SHROPSHIRE LASS
11th Max Longton
12th Bob Blane - PAPILLON
15th Chris Pennington - DESTINY
16th George Griffin – LA VIE EN ROSE
18th Ian Spooner – LAZY DAYS
22nd
Babs Roberts
24th Jean Hunt – TAT
ANNIVERSARIES
1
st Lorna & Phil Maloney
5th
Ann & George Grifffin – LA VIE EN ROSE
17th
Lynne & David Taylor – CAMPSIE LASS 27
th Jean & Max Longton
28th
Audrey & Keith Meecham
CELEBRATIONS FOR
AUGUST
BIRTHDAYS
1st Jan Tattersall – QUANTUM
14th Pete Stonard
20th Phil Maddocks – MERSEY WATERS
25th Bob Lamb – MOONFLEET
27th Steve Clifford – BENNY
ANNIVERSARIES
1st Estelle & Ian Bruce – MOONLIGHT SHADOW
11th Lisa & Craig Jones
22nd
Denise & Keith Wright – HIRONDELLE
26th Liz & Lawrence Maloney
Commodore's Letter
Hi everyone, I am afraid that the good Spring weather we had earlier has been very poor recently. On the trip to Chester we only had one B.B.Q and most days we had the fire lit on the boat. I hope it will be better for everyone out cruising which ever direction you are going, some have gone to the Thames, others to Liverpool. If you wish to join us going to Stratford please let me know. On August Bank Holiday weekend we will have the Annual B.B.Q at the Club. The Bar will be open on Friday night and I am hoping to arrange entertainment on Saturday night Edna
From The chairman
Bonfires at Whiteley.
The board have asked me to remind members who intend to have a fire on the green at
Whiteley that these should only be lit in the area directly in front of the gate and well away
from the canal bank. This is to minimise any risk to moored boats or their occupants and not
to cause a smoke nuisance to boats or houses opposite the green.
Also, please do not cut any surrounding trees, branches or vegetation down to fuel your fire.
Garry Dockerty On behalf of the board.
Help Needed
As discussed in the open meeting recently the club is still struggling for volunteers to help out
with the running of the club. A big problem is with private functions which are great earners
for the club but a problem to manage without help, mainly cleaning the room before and
after events at weekends. If any members can help on the odd weekend for a couple of hours
when we have functions it would be a big help. Please let me or Brian know if you can help,
the bar is also lacking in volunteers to, so feel free to speak to John on that one. Thanks
Bill Jewsbury
Club Nights
Dear Members,
As you will recall through the last winter period club night was changed from Thursday to
Friday and has now reverted back to Thursday again. After a long discussion about the success
of this venture is has been decided that Friday nights were more suited to the majority of the
members for a variety of reasons. It has therefore been decided by the board to adopt Friday
as club night starting from the first week in September. That means that Thursdays will
continue for the moment but end on the 27th of August and the 4th of September will start the
Friday night sessions.
The Board.
Boat for Sale
Nauticus 27 Cruiser for sale
5 berth, 1.5 inboard BMC Diesel engine,
£8,500 Ono. Very good condition, inside & out
Full inventory available
Ring to view
Maria Bailey - 07791 327130
Pete Wright - 07785902552
Mariabaileym@aol.com
Meandering on The Macc
Whilst hastily getting our house ready for sale the spring cruise was on the back burner but we
worked hard and decided we would have a week local and stay on the Macc aiming to be home
to have an agent around on the Friday, giving us 7 days on the boat. So it was the early train to
Stockport for me with Gill following in the car for my 4pm estimated finish, pit stop at Aldi for
supplies, back to work at 5pm to drop off the van key left in my pocket! then crawl to the NCCC
through bank holiday traffic. Boat loaded and bikes securely strapped to the back we headed to
Marple where we actually managed to moor, I fished while Gill prepared a meal including fish
and duck (no canal products were used). In the morning we walked to the shops for amazing
homemade sausages from the butchers and to visit the charity shops which is the only reason
we go shopping, hence this holiday actually being a charity mission, who needs sponsored
walks when you can just buy junk! We set sail at midday to Bugsworth where we bumped into
Alan (nb Sarah) who talked us into going for a pint or 3 with Chris and Doris, we left the pub to
go and barbie our sausages then went back to the pub for more! Sunday brought wind and rain
and a full English aboard Sarah. We decided to move to a more sheltered spot we hadn't
moored at before, so back in the shed we settled down with dvd's and a nice meal! Monday
arrived with sunshine so we got supplies and headed to Poynton, Tim and Sara (Foxy Lady)
were painting and said they may see us sometime this week as they want to go out. I spent
hours fishing at the wide spot at Poynton catching nothing so as we settled in for the evening a
familiar boat(Foxy Lady) arrived and squeezed into the gap next to us then joined us for drinks
till 1am. We decided to walk the 2 1/2 miles into Poynton at 10am, visit the charity shops
and Asda then have lunch in the Kingfisher which is a great pub and a Wetherspoons, so steak
Tuesday was a bonus! After a taxi to the boats we sailed to Bollington for a quick stop at the
Bridge end charity shop which is a short walk from the aqueduct where we found Kevin
(Nautilust) visiting. Back on board we sailed to Gurnett and its shallow mooring's,we met
Quantam,Stedialkee and Calluna all enroute to the Thames, we fished, fell asleep then had the
last hour in the newly refurbished Olde Kings Head which was very nice. Tuesday arrived with a
10am sail to Macclesfield to then walk into town and visit many more charity shops, a great
butcher, Aldi and a pub! After another full taxi back to the boats we had a lovely cruise to
Whitely Green for a bbq, but as we arrived the heavens opened so Tim and I fished then
cooked under my fishing umbrella while the girls kept warm on the boats, just as the food was
ready the rain stopped so we were able to sit outside and talk and fish till nearly midnight.
Thursday arrived with sunshine and our visitors Gill's mum and aunty from Oz arrived to cruise
back to the arm with us wearing there party hats, the sun shone all the way home. When we
got back we unloaded and I removed the bikes which were still secure a week later and we
headed home. We also did a few charity shops on Friday in Crewe then a lot in Chorlton on
Saturday so a very charitable week was had. To those new to boating and the Macc canal it's
amazing what is on our doorstep and we have only touched on a handful of interesting places
this week so if we all share our trips in the Ditchcrawler we can all enjoy what's around us.
Bill Jewsbury (Taylor Maid)
Friday July 24th Summer Cruise Strafford on Avon [ River Avon & River Severn
] Aprox 4 weeks
Friday August 28th to 31st Bank Holiday To be arranged
Marple Locks Festival is Sunday 5th July 10 am to 4 pm
Marple Locks Festival will be happening this summer,its a bi-annual event
celebrating and raising money for The Marple Locks Heritage Society, last time
we had a spot promoting the club and it was a good event. I think it would be
good for us to support this event again so if anybody wants to organise
something on behalf of the club for the festival then please let me know. I don't
know dates yet but thought i'd put it out there. Last time we had a gazebo with
old photo's and club leaflets. Thanks
Bill Jewsbury
We intend to spend as much time as possible on the water during
July and August getting to know ‘Daydream’ and hopefully benefiting
from some good weather so the next edition of Ditchcrawler will be in
September. We wish you all good cruising and look forward to
catching up at seasons end.
Jen & Bern
CHANGE OF DETAILS
If any members have changed their address or phone number please could you
let me know.
Pam Russell
Gas, Diesel, Electricity
Just a reminder to members that gas, diesel and electric cards can be purchased
from the club via Brian Bowker. Although there are no set selling times just ask
Brian or ring him and he will arrange your goods. Payment is by cash, cheque or
bank transfer. Cash sales have a £50 limit.
Bill
Vacancy for Quartermaster
There is a vacancy in the club for a Quartermaster, this involves being responsible
for NCCC items such as burgees, pens, patches etc and running a small stall on
club nights (at least once a month) selling anything that members may find useful,
new or used. If interested speak to Bill Jewsbury or Pam Russell.
Bill
Licences
Can I remind everyone to get their licence application to me to give me time to check and contact you if there are any errors to rectify. I have had a couple of applications reach me on the last day of the month which does not give any time for corrections.
Let hope we have a lovely summer for crusing. New fees listed below. Jen Budworth
Jen
UPDATE – RENEWING YOUR LICENCE
If you have registered your email address with CRT you will now receive your
licence reminder via email. You will need to print off your letter and send to me in
the usual way although I would be grateful if you could enclose an envelope with
your name and address as the new form does not contain these details. Once
your licence renewal has been processed CRT will email your licence to you asking
you to print off for display on your boat. If you have not registered an email
address with CRT you will receive your renewal notice in the usual way. Any
queries please give me a call.
Jen
Licence information below -
Rust Bucket Month 1
The first few days it never stopped raining, being a cruiser back with no pram cover plus a side
entrance the engine room filled up as fast as Allan emptied it.
The good news is we had lots to do inside if it was wet and lots to do outside if it was dry.
So whilst it rained we got rid of the dirty carpet on the walls the mucky mattress, curtains and
dinette cushions and covers and rusty radiators.
The Jabsco macerator toilet didn’t work it had been disconnected and a basic cassette toilet stood
alone in the bathroom. The bathroom unfortunately wouldn’t accommodate a thetford cassette so
the plan was to fix up the pump out, no easy feat as it had bits missing ,parts were ordered ,parts
arrived ,parts were wrong, parts were returned and new parts ordered , and eventually Allan got
it working . Jabsco were extremely helpful I cannot praise them enough no phone queue an
actual person on the other end who answered very quickly and knew the business.
Easter weekend proved fine so we battled on with the outside lots of grinding and starting with
the grab rails – to stop the rust running down the side of the boat .We even managed a sail on
Easter Sunday to Gurnett.
The chimney to the fuel fire had been leaking and we wanted to re-tile the hearth area anyway
but this little job ? turned into a major one.
It took hours to disassemble the fire and chimney and free the stove from its position,when we
removed the framework from the wall and began to knock off the tiles ,we were horrified to find
It hadn’t been fireproofed and the wood was burnt black. Thank goodness we had had a leak
otherwise we wouldn’t have discovered it and could have had a boat fire.
The radio worked so at least we had music whilst we worked.
One big thing we hadn’t bargained for was new windows the outsides reasonable a bit of
treatment around the frames and they<be fine , but the insides wre shot so bank holiday weekend
we are off to Crick boat show to see what deals we can do on 8 windows wish us luck!! we
would have loved to have sailed to Llangollen but alas and alack we will have to miss this one.
Sometimes it has felt like 2 steps forward and 1 step back but I guess that means we are making
progress.
Carole and Allan
The following is presented in its entirety as part was missed from the May
Ditchcrawler - Ed
Notes taken during the CRT Manchester & Pennine (South) Customer Forum
Venue: Macclesfield Rugby Club
Date/time: Wednesday 22nd April 2105 at 17-00 hours
Upon arrival at around 4-30pm along with two other folk I signed in, noting around fifteen or so names
on the guest list. One of the six or so circular tables was already occupied by CRT staff who prior to the
arrival of the majority of the guests were advised by David Baldicchino to split up and occupy different
tables.
Each guest was given an information pack containing leaflets promoting CRT’s services, notices of
stoppages, locations of interest and pre-printed responses to the questions which had been submitted
prior to the Forum. Whilst on the face of it this looked a ‘slick’ way of conducting the Forum it proved to
be otherwise. I moved to the table filled with the CRT staff prior to their dispersal and immediately
started to ask the occupants the questions I was responsible for pre-submitting. Though attempts were
made to give answers, those seated at the table weren’t in every case responsible for the answers,
hence discussion was limited. Many answers were provided by CRT staff who weren’t in attendance at
the Forum which gave me the impression that the event was to some extent ‘stage managed’.
Whilst the guests present occupied tables of their own choosing David Baldicchino’s earlier intervention
ensured that each table contained CRT representation. I shared a table with Brian, the skipper of the
coal boat Alton and George, who himself operated Alton prior to Brian before acquiring his current
traditional narrow boat which he uses for pleasure. The members of CRT staff seated with us were Paul
Bowerman (Rochdale, Ashton and MB&B Canals) and Keith Bernes whom I understand is responsible for
negotiating on behalf of CRT with other waterway stakeholders. The other tables also had a high CRT
presence, in fact I suspect that overall the guests were outnumbered by those working either directly or
indirectly for CRT. The reason for this became apparent with the arrival of CRT’s C.E. Rick Parry who
introduced himself informally to the guests occupying each table which I felt was an excellent gesture. I
suspect that David Baldicchino had instigated a ‘three line whip’ to ensure all his staff were in
attendance for the visit of Rick.
There followed a presentation by David Baldicchino during which questions were invited which in some
instances were fielded by other specialist members of CRT staff. For example there are difficulties with
the valve serving the Bosley Reservoir which are preventing CRT fulfilling their legal obligations
regarding the rate of ‘draw down’. CRT’s Civil Engineer Mary Body explained the difficulties in some
detail along with what is proposed to resolve this problem. During the presentation David Baldicchino
was emphatic that all boaters should report instances of running aground on the Macclesfield Canal to
him directly. This would identify ‘pinch points’ thus enabling a programme of ‘spot dredging’ to
eliminate these. Within the Manchester and Pennine region during the period between April 2014 and
March 2015 in total 514 volunteer days were recorded which translates to £250,000, representing a
truly commendable effort. During the presentation Rick Parry departed for another engagement
elsewhere.
After a break for refreshments the ‘Syndicate Table Discussion’ theme was concerned with how best
CRT may deal with anti-social behaviour. Following discussions, representatives of each table delivered
their findings. At around 7-30pm the Forum reached its conclusion, hastened no doubt by the arrival of
other parties who had booked this facility.
In total eleven questions were pre-submitted comprising five by my AWCC colleague Brian Pollard, two
by the Macclesfield Canal Society and four by myself. The questions and the CRT responses in each case
appear overleaf.
John Suggitt AWCC representative, n/b ‘Evenlode’
CRT Manchester & Pennine (South) Customer Forum – Macclesfield - 22nd April 2015 – Pre-Submitted
Questions
NAME /ORG QUESTION / ISSUES ANSWER
John Suggitt AWCC (NW)
1. Macclesfield Canal - Is the winding hole at the Adelphi Mill Bollington, North of Bridge28 still recognised as being for use by full length narrow boats despite the White Nancy restaurant boat and long term ‘end on’ moorings encroaching on this facility?
2. Macclesfield Canal - Are the new mooring pontoons at Macclesfield to be located sufficiently far North of Bridge37 to maintain the current line of site through the bridge arch which is positioned on the apex of a bend?
3. Upper Peak Forest Canal - Is Wood End Lift Bridge (Bridge24) to be re-built and if so what is the extent of any stoppages in connection with this work?
4. Upper Peak Forest Canal - Is
the length of towpath
It is our view that this site is not a formal winding hole. Historic paperwork and diagrams for the area dating back to the 1800’s indicate that this has always been a wharf. We accept that some have customarily turned here and there is no prohibition of that now if space permits. The bend in the canal towards the bridge is wide so there shouldn’t be a problem. There are plans to rebuild and replace the bridge May/June time. Approx. 3 weeks on site during May to replace the bridge foundations and approx., 2 weeks on site in June to install the new bridge. The towpath would need to be temporarily diverted and we are liaising with the local Council regarding this. We are working with our contractors to try to achieve a ‘navigation restriction’ only basis during the works but are awaiting their advice on what they need in order to efficiently complete the work. A restriction basis would also be dependent on how the work progresses and any issues developing during the works. The works currently being undertaken are between Brick changeover bridge and Strines Aqueduct, they are all works on embankment sections. The section of towpath you are raising concern with is in a poor condition, but is not an embankment and so wouldn’t be as
between the junction with the Macclesfield Canal (above top Lock) and Brick Bridge (Bridge 19) scheduled to be piled during the current round of bank upgrading?
great a risk as the embankment sections. It is not planned to do this work at this time although we are pushing to see it included in the future programme. The problem is that the project will be enormously costly and can’t be done by piling due to the high level of rock on the ground.
CRT Manchester & Pennine (South) Customer Forum – Macclesfield - 22nd April 2015 – Pre-Submitted
Questions
NAME /ORG QUESTION / ISSUES ANSWER
Bryan Pollard AWCC (NW)
1. Trent & Mersey Canal - Decision on unpowered craft through Barnton & Saltersford Tunnels, we need final decisions.
2. Trent & Mersey Canal - From Middlewich to Anderton there are many saplings (say 1” diameter) on the towpath side. They are too big to cut with the strimmer, should these have been cut down as part of any contract with Fountains?
3. Trent & Mersey Canal - Half a mile from the Salt Barge pub towards Anderton Boat Lift, the bank has subsided down to water level. Are there plans to rectify this issue, could any remedial action include the provision of additional mooring rings? ( raised in October ’14 water is still washing over the towpath)
4. Trent & Mersey Canal - New Marina (Towpath side near
Our Safety Advisor has been through the tunnel and advised new signage with instructions for unpowered craft which have been installed. Saltersford Tunnel is timed and unpowered craft should abide by the timings. Barnton has line of site and unpowered craft should follow the same safety rules as powered craft with the use of headlights. These are due to be cleared by Fountains around the middle/end of April. There are 3 crest raising priority notifications in this year’s programme in this area close to the Salt Barge. We anticipate that this will involve towpath improvement works in the location of the crest raising works. While these are in the programme this year we don’t have a confirmed date yet for the work to go ahead. ) ) ) ) Both of these marinas are due to open in Autumn of this year. Dates ) to be confirmed. ) )
Orchard Marina Rudheath) This marina looks very near completion, when will the Marina be open for boaters?
5. Trent & Mersey Canal - New Marina (at Billinge Green Flash). Work has started on this Marina, when will the Marina be open for boaters?
CRT Manchester & Pennine (South) Customer Forum – Macclesfield - 22nd April 2015 – Pre-Submitted
Questions
NAME /ORG
QUESTION / ISSUES ANSWER
Macclesfield Canal Society
1. Macclesfield Canal - In 2013 the society submitted a survey report listing (among other things) locations which would benefit from spot dredging. Since then a number of these locations have got worse, especially bridges 20 and 50, in which craft with standing drafts of less than 2ft 10ins are regularly getting stuck. When can we expect to see these sites dredged? What can we as a society and other users do to help get resources for dredging on the Macc?
2. Macclesfield Canal - There is a particular problem of rubbish disposal in Congleton, where for boaters approaching from the Stoke on Trent direction, it’s very easy to miss the facility at Etruria. This is leading to fly tipping and abuse of council litter
We continue to push for spot dredging of the Macclesfield Canal to be included in the programme but have not been successful in this year. We are aware of the new concerns and will make sure these continue to be highlighted. We have asked for people to tell us when they get stuck but receive very little first-hand feedback about this. We would urge people to email us and report problems to enquiries.manchesterpennine@canalrivertrust.org.uk Thank you for the feedback on this, we will review. What particular sites should be targeted? Whilst this is an ideal location for a bin store, there may be an issue with access for the collection lorry due to the slope. This hasn’t been raised before. Now that it has we will ask our contracts team to review and advise on likely costs. It is not planned this year so there is no
and dog mess bins. Can improved signage be placed at visitor moorings directing moorers’ to the nearest waste disposal facilities? Can refuse disposal for boaters be installed at Buglawton Wharf (perhaps by a Watermate lock to prevent abuse)?
certainty that a site could be developed this year but we will investigate.
Health & Safety
REMINDER NOTICE
I have been informed by the Board that members and non members
are smoking at the top of the fire escape. Please note this is a non
smoking area. Could you please smoke at the bottom of the fire
escape or front entrance of the Club House.
Thank You - George Griffin : Health & Safety Officer
Of Interest to High Lane Residents
"Councillor Kenny Blair will be holding a monthly surgery in High Lane the
second Monday of each month at High Lane Village Hall between 6pm and 7pm
to discuss any issues you may have"
Thank you.
Regards
Pam
Archive Corner June 2015
Cometh the hour cometh the man! (continued)
In last month’s Ditchcrawler, I described how during a February week-end in 1961 the Hewitt
family travelled in their cruiser ‘Nippy’ from their moorings just above Marple Locks to the top of
Clayton Locks on the Ashton Canal. The purpose of their trip was in part to support a campaign
to highlight the very poor state of the Lower Peak Forest and Ashton Canals at the time, which
meant that it had taken them almost two days to cover eleven and a half miles and nineteen
locks. They were bound for Clayton Arm near their home and considering Jim’s work
commitments the following day, the time remaining to cover the further two miles and six locks
was fast running out.
Lock 15 Droylsden viewed from the tail of Lock 16 which abuts Edge Lane Bridge. The
steel reinforcing beams indicate the passage of heavy traffic in this area which hosts a
variety of industry, operational to this day
Having cleared Lock 15 ‘Nippy’ and her crew were confronted with a lock which had part of its
balance beam missing, which they were aware of due to their survey conducted on foot a
couple of weeks earlier. A pre-prepared length of steel tubing was clipped to the damaged gate
and ‘Nippy’ proceeded through Lock 14 despite the bottom gates having to be cleared of
debris. This took some time and was undertaken using the dingy which was unloaded, carried
round the lock chamber and re-launched below. .
Next, a really bad lock was encountered, this being Lock 13 at Crabtree Lane, Clayton which
required a combination of resourcefulness and physical effort to negotiate. Thanks to debris
which had been thrown in the canal by vandals, both sides of the bottom gates were badly
fouled.
James Hewitt tackled this problem by means of a sill rake off the dingy which he had launched
below the lock and following hours of clearing managed to manoeuvre it into the empty lock.
The bottom gates were then closed and the upper paddles were opened very slightly and the
dingy slowly ascended the lock enabling James to nail timber patches over the many gaps in
the gates, together with the large hole which had been noted in the earlier survey. By forcing
the gates open and propping them in the open position it was possible to get ‘Nippy’ through
the lock.
Lock 13, Crabtree Lane Clayton, the ‘Stawberry Duck’ pub is to the left of the lock whilst
the swing bridge has been removed. The distant Lock 14 had part of its balance beam
missing
Lock 12 looking west from Lock 13. Both sides of the canal are flanked with industry.
The subsequent Lock 12, was not passable without difficulty which included the removal of a
five gallon drum filled with bricks. Nightfall was fast approaching and being Sunday evening, in
readiness for work the following morning Jim returned home with his wife. The area is not
particularly ‘boater friendly’ consequently James remained overnight to ‘stand guard’ so to
speak.
Lock12 Clayton with Locks 11 and 10 visible below. After ‘Nippy had descended this lock
James Hewitt remained on board overnight to repel any ‘unwanted miscreants’
Lock 11 Clayton which was rendered impassable in the days following ‘Nippy’s’ descent.
Shortly afterwards a determined gang of canal enthusiasts physically lifted out the
cruiser ‘Bruce’ and carried her round the lock, re-launching her in the pound below.
At dawn on the Monday morning James began to clear the next lock, Lock 11 of debris using all
the mental ingenuity and physical dexterity he had accumulated since leaving Marple.
The BW staff based at the nearby Gorton Depot were asked to assist one two occasions but
declined to respond and having cleared Lock 11 with great difficulty, the final lock on their
journey awaited them, this being Lock 10, one of the deepest locks on the system which due to
its poor state of repair proved to be almost impassable.
A view of the junction with Stockport Branch Canal which joined the Ashton canal below
Lock 11, along which BW’s Gorton Depot was located. Lock 10 is visible in the distance.
Despite employing all the techniques within their capabilities it wasn’t quite possible to fill Lock
10 due to the leaking bottom gates which could not be repaired as the supply of timber brought
along for gate patching purposed was now exhausted. Thankfully a gang of men who were
recruited from a nearby factory lent a hand and their cumulative ‘brute strength’ was sufficient to
force the top gate open. Once ‘Nippy’ was in the lock with the top gate closed, the leaking
bottom gates caused the water level to drop rapidly with the bottom paddles in the closed
position and James quickly scrambled aboard.
Lock 10 at Clayton which was negotiated only with the help of a group of factory workers
Once Lock 10 was finally cleared, following the collective ‘sigh of relief’ by the skipper and the
crew, ‘Nippy’ was soon back within the relative sanctuary of Clayton Arm. No doubt they all felt
battered and weary thanks to their three day ‘marathon ordeal’.
Lock 10 viewed from below. Its proportions resemble those of the summit Locks at
Etruria and Tardebigge. One can imagine the difficulties created by the depth of the
gates which leaked water at a similar rate to that flowing into the lock with the upper
paddles fully open.
Shortly after ‘Nippy’ had successfully returned to Clayton, the IWA announced that it was
organising a ‘Protest Cruise’ appealing for a number of pleasure craft to navigate the Aston
Canal at Whitsun. The Hewitt family responded to this proposal by informing the IWA of the
condition of each of the Ashton Canal locks they had navigated and the gate repairs needed to
assist the fleet of craft which were likely to take part in the ‘Protest Cruise’. At this time the
Hewitt’s received a somewhat threatening letter from BW’s second in command, condemning
outright their trip from Marple to Clayton on the grounds of water wastage and using locks which
were in a dangerous state. Moreover, were they to attempt the return journey by canal rather
than road they may face prosecution. Needless to say, the Hewitt family were aggrieved, but
more importantly their resolve was strengthened. Their strongly worded reply to BW described
work they had undertaken to make the trip possible whilst declaring their intent to make their
return journey to Marple by canal.
Subsequently, BW completed repairs to the lock gates highlighted by the Hewitt’s whilst a group
from the NCCC removed the remaining bricks from the bridge at Dukinfield, thus the stage was
set for the 1961 IWA Whitsun ‘Protest Cruise’. However, there followed a bizarre event that
could only be described as ‘totally inexplicable’. The bottom gates on Lock 11 were set on fire
by persons unknown and their remnants remained within the lock chamber, meaning that the
‘Protest Cruise’ could proceed no further than the top lock at Fairfield Junction. However,
undeterred by the seemingly impossible situation a group of ‘diehards’ with a cruiser from the
Midlands named ‘Bruce’ bow hauled their craft down the lock flight and lifted her out of the
water at Lock 11, manhandling her around the lock chamber to the pound below. After re-
launching her they proceeded to Ducie Street Basin, thereby making the last recorded passage
of a boat along the full length of the Ashton Canal prior to its restoration and re-opening during
the mid 1970’s.
What lied in store for the Hewitt’s and their plucky little vessel ‘Nippy’ now? This unfinished
story involving fact stranger than fiction is as near as you will get to a ‘cliff hanger’ in the rather
mundane world of ‘archives’, therefore I’ll leave you (no doubt with ‘bated breath’) until the next
edition of the Ditchcrawler, when the answer will be revealed. I hope you’re not disappointed!
John Suggitt, ‘Evenlode’
Ahoy There
Ahoy there! Pat here (one of your new members who helped run your bar last Thursday!). I wondered whether you could publish this A5 advert for me as members kept asking me what I did for a living (other than helping out at NCCC bar events) Mant thanks Pat Legg Owner soon to be of Two Hoots! 57 ft new build stern cruiser
The Last Voyage of Columbus
Day 1 (23.05.15)
Nic and I left the arm at 8am (a long time since that has happened) for a long and busy journey.
The aim was to make it to the bottom of the Macc today. Had a pleasant, if cold, run to
Hurdsfield when the fun started! The engine temperature started creeping up! The last time
this happened to the two of us we were on the Middlewich Arm and were enveloped in clouds
of steam which resulted in a call to Noel for help and bow hauling the boat a mile to the
nearest road access. (his tool box was too heavy to carry far!!) The water pump impeller had
failed. Visions of a similar catastrophe flashed through our minds, especially as the stern of the
boat was regularly shrouded in clouds of white steam/smoke. What were we to do? Having
cleverly set off without the club handbook the next step was to phone that font of all
knowledge, Brian, who we had seen moored at Whiteley Green with Ron. He didn’t answer
first time so an emergency call to Val for other numbers followed. Contact was finally made and
long discussions followed. After several phone calls back and forth a decision was made; Ron
and Eric Sutton would meet us at Fool’s Nook.
When we arrived at Fool’s Nook we found a previously unnoticed drip in the engine
compartment, along with a large amount of water. Worrying! Enter two men with large red
tool box (stage left). Eric and Ron were brilliant, the source of the drip was located and fixed,
thanks to Noel’s large collection of spares and Nic’s lip balm to grease a seal (we couldn’t find
the Vaseline!)and two damsels in distress were rescued for little more than a cup of coffee and
a chocolate hobnob. So on we went towards Bosley. We had a brilliant run down, making the
bottom in an hour and a half – in the sun. Next stop Hall Green; clear the prop, pour large gin.
Objective achieved by 7.30pm thanks to a lot of help from amazing club members.
24 Miles
12 Locks
Day 2 (24.05.15)
Is it really only day 2? Sitting here at the top of the Stone flight at 8.30pm drinking our second
glass of red wine it sounds perfect, but that doesn’t say the half of it. We were up at 6.30am to
make our way down to the tunnel and be sure of getting through in the first southbound
group! However........ when we started the engine the oil warning light wouldn’t go out. Help!
Is 6.45 too early to call NCCC rescue? Probably. After passing through the stop lock we decided
to carefully head towards the aqueduct, we sped up a bit and amazingly the light went out and
stayed out. We had found our own solution to the problem, go faster. We can do that!!
We arrived at the North end of the tunnel at about 7.30am just as it started to rain heavily –
time for bacon butties and more coffee to gird our loins for the trauma to come (remembering
my last passage through!). Our leisurely breakfast was rudely interrupted by the tunnel keeper,
North end was going first and we were to be first boat in, get ready please, so we entered the
portal at 8.22am. The journey was impeccable no touches, scrapes or drama, hurrah! Feeling
proud we left the tunnel at 8.55 amazed at how ahead of ourselves we were. How little we
knew! We had just passed under the big road bridge going down the straight when Nic notices
the exhaust was smoking/steaming again and no water was coming through. We have learnt
one thing - this was not a good sign, so we stopped immediately. The daily round of phone calls
to various club members ensued and we tried our best to follow all instructions to no avail. It
was decided that the problem lay with the raw water inlet being blocked.
The decision was made to bow haul the boat (oh not again!) to Westport Park Lake, about half
a mile ahead. Here we were to be met by ‘NCCC Rescue’ in the form of Eric Sutton, Ron Axon
and Brian Bowker. Several phone calls ensued as they navigated round the mysterious roads of
Tunstall but they arrived, clutching the large red tool box and also, this time, a selection of bits
of bendy metal/wire. A frantic hour followed as they poked, prodded, blew and poured water
down the filter inlet, but no joy. It was well and truly blocked. As a last resort we turned the
boat and all stood on the starboard side while Brian, who had the longest arms, lay flat on the
towpath and reached under the boat to try and clear the blockage. After many attempts and
finally submerging even his nose in the water he emerged triumphantly waving a 9 inch square
piece of white plastic which had been firmly attached to the water inlet! This was the cause of
all our troubles. The consensus from all parties involved “I’ve never had that happen in all my
years of cruising” (why did it have to be us?).More coffee and chocolate hobnobs were
produced as a reward and we were sent on our way South.
After all this trauma we deserved the trouble free and speedy descent of the locks at Stoke and
the sun even came out by the time we moored above the locks at Stone just after 6pm.
Exhausted and definitely ready for a gin we wondered what tomorrow would bring.
15 miles
11 locks
1 tunnel
Day 3 (25.05.15)
Well what a boring, uneventful day. Val slept with the club handbook under her pillow for
nothing. The engine worked, the water ran and we didn’t need any visits from NCCC Rescue. As
instructed by Eric yesterday, we topped up the oil before leaving and headed off down the
locks at Stone by 8.45am. We had an easy run meeting a boat coming up in every lock. By the
time we reached Great Haywood we were glad we were travelling South not North as every
lock had a queue at the bottom. At Hoo Mill Lock there were nine boats in the queue and we
met another three between there and the junction. Fearing that a similar number would have
headed South off the Staffs and Worcs were relieved to find no queue at Haywood Lock. Our
luck held all the way past Rugeley, despite boats passing us heading North we saw nothing
going our way until then. However we made good speed and moored above Woodend Lock just
after 5pm, in time for a spot of boat cleaning and general maintenance and of course, a gin!
20 miles
10 locks
Day Four (26.05.15)
We set off from the mooring just after 8am having consumed bacon butties. It was another
fairly uneventful day, in that we have gone 2 days without breaking down, said while touching
wood. It was significantly busier today. We followed a single hander down the first locks at
Fradley but he turned off onto the Coventry Canal. However our speedy progress was to be
short lived. We had to wait a short time at most locks but arriving at Barton Turn we found
ourselves fifth in an ever lengthening queue. It was slow going and we thought the boats would
have spread out through the locks, especially as the one in front of us pulled in for water,
however we quickly caught up a Canaltime boat that took the art of going slow to a whole new
level. In tick over we rapidly caught them and had to keep knocking it out of gear. The growing
queue of boats behind us were equally frustrated. By the time we reached Tattenhill Lock there
were at least four of them drifting along behind us, all wondering what was going on. Having
made inexorably slow progress through that lock we decided that at the next lock we would
explain our predicament and try to pass them. At Branston Lock Nic attempted to help them
but was told in no uncertain terms that they were on holiday to learn and didn’t want or need
any help! So she left them to it. When they decided to stop at Shobnall we breathed a sigh of
relief, headed off to Stenson Lock and after an hour or so of boat cleaning had a pleasant meal
at the Bubble Inn.
18 Miles
14 Locks
Day Five (27.05.15)
Up early again today and left the mooring by 7.30am. We were going to have breakfast first,
but the golden rule of never let a full lock with an open gate go to waste was too ingrained in
our minds. (and we didn’t know where the Canaltime boat was !) So we set off down the locks.
The sun was shining and the wind had dropped.
On arrival at Swarkstone Lock our progress was halted by a sudden clunking noise and an awful
juddering. Oh no!! It was all going so well. Fearing the worst we pulled in below the lock to
investigate – visions of something dropping off the engine flashed through our minds. We
discovered we had a long rubber narrow boat fender, complete with 2 ft of rope and a wooden
block, round the prop. It took us 30 minutes hard work with a Stanley knife, and lots of
unladylike language, to remove it. This was our only issue on what was a beautiful, warm and
sunny day. We met a narrow boat at Weston Lock and shared with them the rest of the way.
We arrived at Sawley at about 12.30pm and moored on the river opposite the marina. We then
proceeded to clean and scrub the boat within an inch of its life and throw away lots of rubbish
(that we thought was useful when we bought it!!). Customary gin consumed we settled down
for our last evening on board – end of an era, We will be glad to hand over tomorrow and get
home for a rest.
9 Miles
6 Broad locks
Total: 1 tunnel, 88 miles, 53locks ( 3 bottles of wine and ½ bottle of gin)
Pat Christopher and Nicola
We are all very sad to see Columbus leave the arm –Ed.
Boat Cleaning at Woodend Travelling Light !
Ron and Eric at work
The Last Lock
Volunteer numbers soar in the North West
The number of volunteers who help keep the canal system in good shape in the North West is rising…
For the number of volunteer hours has increased by 13.75 per cent over the past 12 months to a staggering 70,777 hours – or 10,111 days - in the Canal & River Trust’s North West and Manchester & Pennine Waterway areas.
This includes the Leeds & Liverpool Canal, Lancaster Canal, Rochdale Canal, Ashton Canal, Macclesfield Canal and Peak Forest Canal.
Canals and rivers offer a unique opportunity for local people to get involved to help create a real community asset and to make their waterway a great place to take time out away from the hustle and bustle of every day life and enjoy the rich flora and fauna.
Huge range of tasks
Volunteers take on a huge range of tasks that are integral to the upkeep of the canal system, including helping to keep towpaths clean and tidy, cutting back the vegetation that grows along the canal and river banks, being volunteer lock keepers and looking after people visiting the North West on boating holidays.
Groups of volunteers, organisations and local businesses are also helping out by adopting sections of the canal, with 33 sections of canal in the region now being formally adopted and making a positive difference.
Over 75 different groups of all ages and interests ranging from Leeds & Liverpool Canal Society, Crooke Village Residents Association, Victoria Anglers, local businesses to ‘Can we Dig it’ a local hospital group whose patients volunteer as part of their recovery programme, are now working with the Trust, ensuring that the region’s historic canal system is maintained for future generations to enjoy.
A friendly face
Canal & River Trust waterway manager Chantelle Seaborn said: “We are very grateful to everyone who volunteers with the Canal & River Trust. They make the waterways a nicer place to visit, including providing a welcome friendly face for everyone using our wonderful waterways.
Quick & easy hot-and-sour chicken noodle soup
Prep:25 minsCook:15 mins
Ingredients
140g dried wholewheat noodles
1 tbsp groundnut oil
2 tbsp grated ginger
1 medium red chilli, deseeded and finely chopped
4 skinless, boneless chicken thighs, chopped into small chunks
1 tbsp Shaohsing rice wine
700ml hot vegetable stock
4 chestnut mushrooms, sliced
1 tsp dark soy sauce
2 tbsp light soy sauce
2 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp cornflour mixed with 2 tbsp cold water to make a paste
1 handful beansprouts
2 spring onions, sliced
Method
Bring a small pan of water to the boil and cook the noodles following
pack instructions. Drain, rinse under cold running water to stop them
cooking further, then drizzle over a little oil to prevent them sticking
together. Divide between 2 deep bowls.
Heat a wok over high heat and add the rest of the oil. When it starts to
smoke, add the ginger and chilli, then stir-fry for a few secs. Add the
chicken and stir-fry for 2 mins. As the meat starts to turn brown, add
the rice wine and cook for 3 mins more. Add the vegetable stock, bring
to a simmer, then add the mushrooms. Season with the dark soy, light
soy and rice vinegar.
Bring back to a simmer, then add the cornflour paste. Simmer and stir
until thickened. Stir in the beansprouts and most of the spring onions,
then ladle the soup over the noodles. Serve immediately, scattered
with the remaining spring onions.
NCCC Board of Directors 2014 / 2015
The Board
Chairman Garry Dockerty 01663 767810 chairman@nccc.uk.net
Company Secretary Pam Suggitt 0161 427 9906 secretary@nccc.uk.net
Finance Director Bill Jewsbury 07812 368887 finance@nccc.uk.net
Bar Director John Fenton 0161 998 0391 bar@nccc.uk.net
Land & Water Space Director
Eric Roberts 01457 855929 landandwater@nccc.uk.net
Membership Services Director
Pam Russell 0161 998 0391 membershipdir@nccc.uk.net
Premises Director Brian Bowker 01663 763595 premises@nccc.uk.net
Director without Portfolio Geoff Lamb 0161 483 7943 dwp@nccc.uk.net
Commodore
Edna Roberts 01457 855929 commodore@nccc.uk.net
Company Officials
Archivist John Suggitt 0161 427 9906 archivist@nccc.uk.net
Assn of Waterways Cruising Clubs Rep
John Suggitt 0161 427 9906 awcc@nccc.uk.net
Ditchcrawler Editor Bernie Budworth 01925 764377 dc@nccc.uk.net
Food Safety Officer Janet Tattersall 01457 861085 Foodsafety@nccc.uk.net
Fundraising Co-ordinator Sheila Barlow 01663 765731 fundraising@nccc.uk.net
Health & Safety Officer George Griffin 0161 355 6830 health@nccc.uk.net
Kitchen Supervisor Pam Russell 0161 998 0391 kitchen@nccc.uk.net
Licensing Agent Jen Budworth 01925 764377 licenses@nccc.uk.net
Membership Secretary Pam Suggitt 0161 427 9906 membership@nccc.uk.net
Moorings Officer Bob Barlow 01663 765731 moorings@nccc.uk.net
Quartermaster Vacant
Web Master Garry Dockerty 01663 767810 postmaster@nccc.uk.net
Wharf Supdt. Brian Bowker 01663 763595 wharf@nccc.uk.net