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Photos by Mike Stevens except the last one which is by Brian Holt

The protest at Banbury was organised by the Oxfordshire branch of the IWA and supported by representatives from the Banbury Canoe Club, the AWCC, RBOA, Thrupp CCC and a member from the Ipswich branch of the IWA (complete with narrowboat). In total a team of some 10-12 volunteers manned three points in Banbury.

A display stand in the Castle Quays shopping centre caught the eye of many en route to Somerfields, Boots and M&S. Throughout the day there were always 3-4 volunteers talking to passers-by, taking signatures and handing out leaflets. Everyone that signed the petition was awarded with a 'Save our Waterways for all' sticker.

For those shoppers that missed that lot, there was a small display with the salient points to see on the way back to the car park. A team of two were on standby to gather further signatures - they caught a fair few on their way into the centre as well.

An additional attraction at this point was a canoeing simulation machine staffed by members of the canoe club who encouraged passers-by to have a go. For those reluctant to try canoeing on tarmac there were canoes on the water demonstrating the finer points of this popular sport.

The third display was stationed on the other side of the canal on the towpath outside the General Foods social club. The fence sported a large banner with an additional smaller one on one of the narrowboats moored alongside. Once again, a dedicated team of signature gatherers was on hand.

Overall, there was a constant stream of interest with few helpers twiddling their thumbs for more than a few minutes - until the sun went down and it got a bit chilly. In total 1078 signatures were added to the cause.

Brian Green