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On what must have been one of the wettest Sundays this year, Inland Waterways Association, Lichfield Branch, together with supporting canal organizations, held a protest demonstration at Fradley Junction on the Trent and Mersey Canal.

In spite of the dreadful weather we were amazed at the number of public who came to support the event. A special activity walk was organized around the Pool at Fradley, and mums, dads and children dressed in full wet-weather gear proved their enthusiasm for the canals by going round the lake in the pouring rain.

Afterwards, they took part in a Colouring competition and learnt how to make rope traditionally.

Lichfield's Local MP, Michael Fabricant came along and got soaked along with everyone else. As a committed canal enthusiast he is determined that the cuts to the canal maintenance budget should be reversed. The overwhelming view was that the canal system is a joy and a pleasure to all - whether young or old, able bodied or disabled. They all agreed that proper funding should be restored so that the waterways remain as vibrant and attractive in the future as they are today.

Petition signatures gathered: over 100

Supported by: Lichfield and Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust, Save our Waterways, IWA Birmingham Branch, Birmingham Canal Navigation Society, Residential Boat Owners Association, Trent and Mersey Canal Society and the Guild of Master Knot Tyers.

Margaret Beardsmore
Chairman,IWA Lichfield Branch.