Wilts & Berks Canal Trust

Dragonfly

Issue 153: Spring 2020

Dauntsey Lock Canal Centre, Dauntsey Lock, Chippenham, Wiltshire SN15 4HDTel: 0845 625 1977 Email: editor@wbct.org.ukFor other contact details please go to our website: www.wbct.org.uk

Please follow us on facebook and twitter: facebook.com/wiltsberkscanal twitter.com/wbctcanal©2020 Wilts & Berks Canal Trust. All rights reserved. The Wilts & Berks Canal Trust is a charity registered with the Charity Commission no. 299595 and a company limited by guarantee registered in England & Wales no. 2267719.

The views and opinions expressed in this magazine do not necessarily represent those of the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust. The Editorial team reserves the right to edit or omit any material received.

Editorial Team: Robin Dunford Designer: Heather Ponting-Bather, In Touch Design & Print, Purton, Wiltshire. E: heather@intouchpurton.co.ukPrinter: Hulbert & Woodall Print, Templars Way Industrial Estate, Royal Wootton Bassett, Wiltshire. E: info@handwprint.co.uk

Cover photo: She said “Yes”! credit: Lynette Price

Spring on the horizon and the rain continues. The old curse goes along the lines of “may you live in interesting times”. As I write this, the ramifications of the coronavirus seem to be developing, with cancellations of events aplenty. (Since I wrote that, the situation has worsened such that the Board of Trustees had to take the decision to suspend face-to-face activities and work parties. Our ardent hope is that normal service can be resumed ASAP. In the meantime, we hope you stay safe for the duration of this awful period.)On the brighter side, the Boats team have done sterling work, continuing the cruise season well beyond the usual winter cut-off. NB Dragonfly has been out of the water for much-needed maintenance; our thanks to all concerned. I look forward to the resumption of boat trips when it becomes possible.If you haven’t yet been for a trip on Dragonfly to enjoy a cruise along the canal in Wichelstowe, please pencil that in the diary for later in the year.Talking of Swindon brings me to probably the most exciting news of the last few years. A bid has now

2 3

Wilts & Berks Canal Trust

2 Welcome from the editorial team3 Chairman’s thoughts from Brian Stovold4 TenyearsofNBDragonfly7 Melksham Food & River Festival 20208 Peterborough Arms update

Trust Dates for the Diary9 Growing up around the Stanley Aqueduct10 My Wilts & Berks with Chris Barry

Book sales at the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust Visitor Centre Love on board 200 Club winners

11 What are you doing to that hedge?12 News from Royal Wootton Bassett14 News from Melksham, Calne, Chippenham

branch and Foxham & Lyneham sub branch 15 From the Archives16 Received with thanks

LocationsmentionedinDragonfly

I’m delighted to welcome readers to the Spring 2020 issue of Dragonfly, or issue 153, for those who prefer to go by the numbers! When I wrote the first draft of this editorial, the country was just beginning to be gripped by the Covid-19 coronavirus. I should have been at London Book Fair that week, but the entire event was cancelled just a few days before the Fair was due to open. Since then, the situation has obviously escalated rapidly. I have worked from home for over 8 years, but I now find myself sharing my home office with my wife and my two teenage daughters, the older of whom is waiting anxiously to discover the outcome of the cancellation of her A-levels.It’s impossible to tell at this point how long this crisis will last, or what its final impact will be on the Trust’s activities. Public events are completely out of the question for now, of course, although those of us fortunate to live close to the line of the canal might still be able to pay a visit for our once-a-day exercise, for the moment at least, as long as we observe the appropriate social distancing protocols. Let’s hope that the pandemic has passed by before the summer has been and gone, and that it will still be possible to hold some of the events that we have been looking forward to. Of course, the Trust will do its best to keep supporters up to date if planned events are impacted by the virus.In this issue, we have the next in our series of “My Wilts & Berks”, where Chris Barry tells us what led him to get involved with the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust. We are looking forward to the warmer weather, with a preview of the Melksham Food and River Festival which, at time of writing, is still on! We also have news of what some of the branches have been up to, and their plans for the future.I’m pleased to say that the inclusion of captions and the location map in the last issue of Dragonfly appear to have gone down well with readers. There has also been continued growth in the number of people following the Trust on Instagram – numbers

Welcome from the editor...

have more than doubled since we started to post the photos from each Dragonfly issue on Instagram after publication. Photos from previous issues can be found using the hashtags #Dragonflysummer19 and #Dragonflywinter19, so why not check out our Instagram page and see what all the fuss is about?Once again, I’d like to thank all those who have contributed content for this issue of Dragonfly, and all those who have helped with the publication process. Please remember, if you have something that you think would be of interest to Dragonfly readers, please contact me at editor@wbct.org.uk; perhaps you have devised a particularly ingenious way to stay connected to the canal while the lockdown continues! Photos related to the canal are always most welcome; please send them at original resolution if possible, and please remember to include a caption for each image that describes what the photo shows, where it was taken and by whom, so that the photographer can be correctly credited if the picture is used in the magazine.RobinDunford,DragonflyEditor

Photo:DragonflyoppositetheHall&WoodhouseshowingoffhernewshuttersinFebruary2020.

Credit: Chris Barry

Issue 153: Spring 2020

Chairman’sthoughts

been made for funds from the Highways Agency for the first stage of achieving our own tunnel under the M4. Phase One funding would be for feasibility and design work prior to a second bid for funds to construct. The scope of the project is not only the tunnel but also the building of the canal to the south of the motorway through towards Hay Lane. Our thanks go to all those involved in the preparation of the bid and liaison with the Highways Agency.At the end of March, our temporary CEO Andrew Matters stood down. I wish to place on record my thanks for his endeavours over the last year. He leaves the Executive Committee and hence the Trust in a much better place. I am delighted to say that he will continue to help us on specific projects. Gordon Olson, Fundraising and Membership Director, has agreed to act as temporary CEO whilst we seek a more permanent replacement.There’s plenty going on out there, even in the lockdown – thanks for your continued support.Brian Stovold

Dauntsey Lock Canal Centre, Dauntsey Lock, Chippenham, Wiltshire SN15 4HDTel: 0845 625 1977 Email: editor@wbct.org.ukFor other contact details please go to our website: www.wbct.org.uk

Please follow us on facebook and twitter: facebook.com/wiltsberkscanal twitter.com/wbctcanal©2020 Wilts & Berks Canal Trust. All rights reserved. The Wilts & Berks Canal Trust is a charity registered with the Charity Commission no. 299595 and a company limited by guarantee registered in England & Wales no. 2267719.

The views and opinions expressed in this magazine do not necessarily represent those of the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust. The Editorial team reserves the right to edit or omit any material received.

Editorial Team: Robin Dunford Designer: Heather Ponting-Bather, In Touch Design & Print, Purton, Wiltshire. E: heather@intouchpurton.co.ukPrinter: Hulbert & Woodall Print, Templars Way Industrial Estate, Royal Wootton Bassett, Wiltshire. E: info@handwprint.co.uk

Cover photo: She said “Yes”! credit: Lynette Price

Spring on the horizon and the rain continues. The old curse goes along the lines of “may you live in interesting times”. As I write this, the ramifications of the coronavirus seem to be developing, with cancellations of events aplenty. (Since I wrote that, the situation has worsened such that the Board of Trustees had to take the decision to suspend face-to-face activities and work parties. Our ardent hope is that normal service can be resumed ASAP. In the meantime, we hope you stay safe for the duration of this awful period.)On the brighter side, the Boats team have done sterling work, continuing the cruise season well beyond the usual winter cut-off. NB Dragonfly has been out of the water for much-needed maintenance; our thanks to all concerned. I look forward to the resumption of boat trips when it becomes possible.If you haven’t yet been for a trip on Dragonfly to enjoy a cruise along the canal in Wichelstowe, please pencil that in the diary for later in the year.Talking of Swindon brings me to probably the most exciting news of the last few years. A bid has now

2 3

Wilts & Berks Canal Trust

2 Welcome from the editorial team3 Chairman’s thoughts from Brian Stovold4 TenyearsofNBDragonfly7 Melksham Food & River Festival 20208 Peterborough Arms update

Trust Dates for the Diary9 Growing up around the Stanley Aqueduct10 My Wilts & Berks with Chris Barry

Book sales at the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust Visitor Centre Love on board 200 Club winners

11 What are you doing to that hedge?12 News from Royal Wootton Bassett14 News from Melksham, Calne, Chippenham

branch and Foxham & Lyneham sub branch 15 From the Archives16 Received with thanks

LocationsmentionedinDragonfly

I’m delighted to welcome readers to the Spring 2020 issue of Dragonfly, or issue 153, for those who prefer to go by the numbers! When I wrote the first draft of this editorial, the country was just beginning to be gripped by the Covid-19 coronavirus. I should have been at London Book Fair that week, but the entire event was cancelled just a few days before the Fair was due to open. Since then, the situation has obviously escalated rapidly. I have worked from home for over 8 years, but I now find myself sharing my home office with my wife and my two teenage daughters, the older of whom is waiting anxiously to discover the outcome of the cancellation of her A-levels.It’s impossible to tell at this point how long this crisis will last, or what its final impact will be on the Trust’s activities. Public events are completely out of the question for now, of course, although those of us fortunate to live close to the line of the canal might still be able to pay a visit for our once-a-day exercise, for the moment at least, as long as we observe the appropriate social distancing protocols. Let’s hope that the pandemic has passed by before the summer has been and gone, and that it will still be possible to hold some of the events that we have been looking forward to. Of course, the Trust will do its best to keep supporters up to date if planned events are impacted by the virus.In this issue, we have the next in our series of “My Wilts & Berks”, where Chris Barry tells us what led him to get involved with the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust. We are looking forward to the warmer weather, with a preview of the Melksham Food and River Festival which, at time of writing, is still on! We also have news of what some of the branches have been up to, and their plans for the future.I’m pleased to say that the inclusion of captions and the location map in the last issue of Dragonfly appear to have gone down well with readers. There has also been continued growth in the number of people following the Trust on Instagram – numbers

Welcome from the editor...

have more than doubled since we started to post the photos from each Dragonfly issue on Instagram after publication. Photos from previous issues can be found using the hashtags #Dragonflysummer19 and #Dragonflywinter19, so why not check out our Instagram page and see what all the fuss is about?Once again, I’d like to thank all those who have contributed content for this issue of Dragonfly, and all those who have helped with the publication process. Please remember, if you have something that you think would be of interest to Dragonfly readers, please contact me at editor@wbct.org.uk; perhaps you have devised a particularly ingenious way to stay connected to the canal while the lockdown continues! Photos related to the canal are always most welcome; please send them at original resolution if possible, and please remember to include a caption for each image that describes what the photo shows, where it was taken and by whom, so that the photographer can be correctly credited if the picture is used in the magazine.RobinDunford,DragonflyEditor

Photo:DragonflyoppositetheHall&WoodhouseshowingoffhernewshuttersinFebruary2020.

Credit: Chris Barry

Issue 153: Spring 2020

Chairman’sthoughts

been made for funds from the Highways Agency for the first stage of achieving our own tunnel under the M4. Phase One funding would be for feasibility and design work prior to a second bid for funds to construct. The scope of the project is not only the tunnel but also the building of the canal to the south of the motorway through towards Hay Lane. Our thanks go to all those involved in the preparation of the bid and liaison with the Highways Agency.At the end of March, our temporary CEO Andrew Matters stood down. I wish to place on record my thanks for his endeavours over the last year. He leaves the Executive Committee and hence the Trust in a much better place. I am delighted to say that he will continue to help us on specific projects. Gordon Olson, Fundraising and Membership Director, has agreed to act as temporary CEO whilst we seek a more permanent replacement.There’s plenty going on out there, even in the lockdown – thanks for your continued support.Brian Stovold

4 55

10 years of NB Dragonfly, 2010-2020

2010 was the 200th anniversary of the Wilts & Berks Canal’s opening, so the Trust decided to purchase a boat to mark the occasion. We are lucky to have some photos taken at the time, thanks to Tim Pyatt, who, with Mike Lang and Chris Coyle, was heavily involved throughout. Funds for her purchase – seemingly impossible at the time – were raised by an appeal to Trust members and a large donation from the Underwood Trust, all thanks to the efforts of Kath Hatton. A plaque on the boat acknowledges this. She was designed and built for the Trust by Pinders at Worcester and fitted out by David Dare and others at Oxford Narrowboats at Lower Heyford, near Bicester, who very kindly let the Trust have her at cost. The

timetable for her launch and naming by the Duchess of Cornwall was set; the timescale was very tight, and during her fitting out Tim Pyatt sometimes slept at the boatyard to be on hand!

Dragonfly is a purpose-built steel narrowboat, 36 ft long and weighing 9 tons; the front doors are wider than normal to allow wheelchair access. One intriguing but invisible feature is that she has more ballast than usual. The ballast is in the form of paving slabs; it sits under the cabin floor, making her sit a bit deeper in the water than is normal. She has the extra ballast in order to pass the ‘tilt test’ – this simulates all 12 passengers plus two crew rushing to one side of the boat for whatever reason; she must not exceed

10 degrees of tilt, but she didn’t get past 7. Since then, the Maritime and Coastguard Agency has failed several trip boats, so it was a wise decision to give her the extra stability!

Tim’s photos chronicle her fitting out, in July–August 2010. She was brought by lorry on 7 September to the Kennett and Avon Canal at Semington where, the very next day, she was named by Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall. No bottles were broken, but in the picture it looks suspiciously like a bottle of real ale the Duchess is carefully pouring over her bow; Chris Coyle had researched the history – narrowboats were traditionally launched with beer! The boat then went for a spin, with the Duchess at the helm, accompanied

by John Laverick, John Bridgeman and Tim Pyatt. The same day, the Duchess dug the first sod of the Melksham Link. The head teacher of the local school brought all the pupils; the Trust had a poster-sized charter made up, which Camilla signed and presented to the school, who still have it. All the children were given a small facsimile. Chris kept the bottle and the engraved spade, and later donated them to the Trust.

The day after that, Dragonfly was brought to Swindon and was lowered into the canal from the bridge at Wichelstowe – at that time neither Waitrose nor the Hall & Woodhouse pub even existed; the field there was not much above the level of the canal. The land was later raised to where the pub now sits. The Trust was lucky to have Christine Hardisty as a member; they live in a house whose garden comes down to the canal near Kingshill and has a jetty; a perfect safe place to keep her! The canal had no winding hole apart from the wide stretch where Waitrose now is, so the Swindon Work Party constructed a landing stage at the furthest point where the ever-narrowing canal permitted the boat to turn – with a little encouragement by digging away the bank opposite. Then, and now, the boat turns with no more than a foot to spare!

For the first few years, the trip boat effort was run entirely by Sue Paine under the auspices of Swindon Branch. Later, Dragonfly acquired her own bank account as the number of skippers and crew – and trips – grew. In 2012, she was taken to the Stroud Festival to support our sister Trust, Cotswold Canals.

In January 2013, Dragonfly was taken to the Swindon Mini plant for their apprentice engineers to install a disabled lift. When the floor was removed to do this, it transpired that the inside of the hull was bare metal, so Rob Yeowell and Bob Howlett red-leaded it! Once that was done and she was back in the water, it became apparent that the boat listed to the left because of the extra weight of the lift – so some more paving slabs were installed on the right to redress the balance.

In 2014, she was craned out again and taken to the Melksham River Festival; because she was going from one body of water to another, she had to be properly cleaned, so she was taken through the bus wash, thanks to Rob Yeowell, who used to drive the buses! By this time, Waitrose had been built, and shortly afterwards the landing stage there was built by the Swindon Branch, supervised by Rod Hacker (design), Keith Walker, Ray Aldridge and others (construction). The Trust was fortunate in that Waitrose very kindly funded a third of the cost, and Hall & Woodhouse (who weren’t even there yet) another third, leaving the Trust to find only the remaining third. In July 2015, The Duchess of Cornwall came aboard Dragonfly again, this

Picturedtopfarleft:Dragonfly,July2010.Secondfromtop,farleft:Dragonfly’sfirstliftintothewater,September2010.Thirdfromtop,farleft:DragonflyarrivesatWichelstowe,September2010.Bottom,farleft:Camilla,DuchessofCornwallnamesDragonflyinSeptember2010.Mainphoto:CamillaDuchessofCornwallatthetiller,September2010.Allcredit:ChrisBarry

4 55

10 years of NB Dragonfly, 2010-2020

2010 was the 200th anniversary of the Wilts & Berks Canal’s opening, so the Trust decided to purchase a boat to mark the occasion. We are lucky to have some photos taken at the time, thanks to Tim Pyatt, who, with Mike Lang and Chris Coyle, was heavily involved throughout. Funds for her purchase – seemingly impossible at the time – were raised by an appeal to Trust members and a large donation from the Underwood Trust, all thanks to the efforts of Kath Hatton. A plaque on the boat acknowledges this. She was designed and built for the Trust by Pinders at Worcester and fitted out by David Dare and others at Oxford Narrowboats at Lower Heyford, near Bicester, who very kindly let the Trust have her at cost. The

timetable for her launch and naming by the Duchess of Cornwall was set; the timescale was very tight, and during her fitting out Tim Pyatt sometimes slept at the boatyard to be on hand!

Dragonfly is a purpose-built steel narrowboat, 36 ft long and weighing 9 tons; the front doors are wider than normal to allow wheelchair access. One intriguing but invisible feature is that she has more ballast than usual. The ballast is in the form of paving slabs; it sits under the cabin floor, making her sit a bit deeper in the water than is normal. She has the extra ballast in order to pass the ‘tilt test’ – this simulates all 12 passengers plus two crew rushing to one side of the boat for whatever reason; she must not exceed

10 degrees of tilt, but she didn’t get past 7. Since then, the Maritime and Coastguard Agency has failed several trip boats, so it was a wise decision to give her the extra stability!

Tim’s photos chronicle her fitting out, in July–August 2010. She was brought by lorry on 7 September to the Kennett and Avon Canal at Semington where, the very next day, she was named by Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall. No bottles were broken, but in the picture it looks suspiciously like a bottle of real ale the Duchess is carefully pouring over her bow; Chris Coyle had researched the history – narrowboats were traditionally launched with beer! The boat then went for a spin, with the Duchess at the helm, accompanied

by John Laverick, John Bridgeman and Tim Pyatt. The same day, the Duchess dug the first sod of the Melksham Link. The head teacher of the local school brought all the pupils; the Trust had a poster-sized charter made up, which Camilla signed and presented to the school, who still have it. All the children were given a small facsimile. Chris kept the bottle and the engraved spade, and later donated them to the Trust.

The day after that, Dragonfly was brought to Swindon and was lowered into the canal from the bridge at Wichelstowe – at that time neither Waitrose nor the Hall & Woodhouse pub even existed; the field there was not much above the level of the canal. The land was later raised to where the pub now sits. The Trust was lucky to have Christine Hardisty as a member; they live in a house whose garden comes down to the canal near Kingshill and has a jetty; a perfect safe place to keep her! The canal had no winding hole apart from the wide stretch where Waitrose now is, so the Swindon Work Party constructed a landing stage at the furthest point where the ever-narrowing canal permitted the boat to turn – with a little encouragement by digging away the bank opposite. Then, and now, the boat turns with no more than a foot to spare!

For the first few years, the trip boat effort was run entirely by Sue Paine under the auspices of Swindon Branch. Later, Dragonfly acquired her own bank account as the number of skippers and crew – and trips – grew. In 2012, she was taken to the Stroud Festival to support our sister Trust, Cotswold Canals.

In January 2013, Dragonfly was taken to the Swindon Mini plant for their apprentice engineers to install a disabled lift. When the floor was removed to do this, it transpired that the inside of the hull was bare metal, so Rob Yeowell and Bob Howlett red-leaded it! Once that was done and she was back in the water, it became apparent that the boat listed to the left because of the extra weight of the lift – so some more paving slabs were installed on the right to redress the balance.

In 2014, she was craned out again and taken to the Melksham River Festival; because she was going from one body of water to another, she had to be properly cleaned, so she was taken through the bus wash, thanks to Rob Yeowell, who used to drive the buses! By this time, Waitrose had been built, and shortly afterwards the landing stage there was built by the Swindon Branch, supervised by Rod Hacker (design), Keith Walker, Ray Aldridge and others (construction). The Trust was fortunate in that Waitrose very kindly funded a third of the cost, and Hall & Woodhouse (who weren’t even there yet) another third, leaving the Trust to find only the remaining third. In July 2015, The Duchess of Cornwall came aboard Dragonfly again, this

Picturedtopfarleft:Dragonfly,July2010.Secondfromtop,farleft:Dragonfly’sfirstliftintothewater,September2010.Thirdfromtop,farleft:DragonflyarrivesatWichelstowe,September2010.Bottom,farleft:Camilla,DuchessofCornwallnamesDragonflyinSeptember2010.Mainphoto:CamillaDuchessofCornwallatthetiller,September2010.Allcredit:ChrisBarry

6 7

NOTE:Attimeofpress,theFestivalisstillgoingahead.Pleasecheckwww.melkshamfoodandriverfestival.co.ukforupdates.

This year’s Festival will be held over the weekend of 5 and 6 September but, as usual, the work starts long before that weekend. A year’s worth of planning and a week of site preparation, by Festival and Trust members, is already well under way to help make the weekend a great success. Thank you to the Festival Committee for their ongoing support!

The Trust’s Festival will start on Friday 4 September with the site set-up and, following on from last year’s successful launch, a series of charter trips, which last year contributed £90 to our weekend total. These are only available by prior arrangement, so pre-booking is essential.

The Festival proper starts on Saturday morning where, this year, around 90 stalls will be on site, selling a whole range of food and drink, as well as demonstrating the many crafts and skills that are on hand throughout Wiltshire, including stands and possible displays by the emergency services.

The Trust’s boat trips will begin by hosting a trip for the Melksham Carnival Royal Family. This year we will be back to running two trip boats, with Mary Archard again joined by Damselfly following her refit. These trips will be running throughout both days, subject to other river events; a timetable of trips will be published nearer the dates, but will be bookable in advance or on the day, subject to availability.

Saturday will also host the Festival Raft Race, sponsored by Foxhanger Canal Holidays. Do you want to enter a team? Entries for this can be made via the website at www.melkshamfoodandriverfestival.co.uk. The website will be up closer to the date of the event; if you cannot access the relevant page for entries, please try again a few days later.

Don’t let a disability put you off from enjoying a river trip; as last year demonstrated, the Mary Archard is a boat specifically designed to accommodate wheelchairs. Early booking, while not essential, is desirable, if this is likely to be a requirement for you. The adaptability of the Wilts & Berks team was proved last year when a partially sighted couple, complete with guide dogs, came up with a request we had not anticipated: “Will you please describe what we cannot see?” Bob Howlett stepped up admirably to take on this particular challenge to demonstrate another example of Community Engagement in action.

Both days hold lots in store, both on and off the river; there will be canoeing demonstrations and, subject to numbers, the flotilla will provide a parade of boats. While on land there is the opportunity to savour various refreshments as you wander around the site.

Last year, this great weekend was enjoyed by an estimated 6000 visitors. This year, we are anticipating even more, so don’t miss this opportunity to come and join us!

This weekend does not happen without our wonderful volunteers, who work tirelessly over the weekend. If you feel you can contribute to this effort, please contact me (Alan Lank) at alan.lank@wbct.org.uk.

Alan Lank

time as a passenger, to bring her to the ceremony by water. Wendy Cole and Annie Ireland had the privilege of crewing. There had been a prolonged dry spell, and some of us were very nervous about whether Dragonfly might run aground with the Duchess aboard; a few of us walked the towpath alongside, chatting amicably to Camilla’s security detail. We needn’t have worried – Thames Water had released large amounts of water into the canal overnight – and on the day it rained anyway! Sue Paine had the privilege of presenting the Duchess with a Dragonfly jigsaw – her concept!

All good things come to an end, and shortly after that Sue resigned – one of a number of people to do so around that time. It is amazing to consider how she ran the boat and its trips virtually single-handedly, doing the publicity leaflets and merchandising, organising the rota, banking the takings to the Swindon Branch account initially, and then setting up a separate account as takings increased. She was assisted only by Rob Yeowell, who looked after the mechanicals, and his wife Cheryll, who looked after provisioning the boat and collating the information from the log sheets. The same tasks are now done by a Committee with roles of Chair, Treasurer, Rota Organiser, Bookings, Maintenance, Publicity, Supplies and Statistics, and Meetings Secretary – plus Santa present organiser and a few actual Santas!

Is it worth it? You bet! Since she began doing trips, the Dragonfly accounts have passed well over £37,000 to Trust funds – that’s clear profit, which was much needed last year. The foresight of those involved at the time has been richly rewarded. And it’s not just about raising money for the Trust – Dragonfly has carried around 10,000 adults and children over nine trip seasons, 2000 of them in 2019, our best year so far. Therefore, a lot of people have become aware of the Trust and what we are doing; the publicity is invaluable and, no doubt, through her the Trust has acquired quite a lot of new members and volunteers!

Chris Barry

Picturedtopleft:They’reoff!Topright:WiltshireYouthCanoeClub‘trycanoeing’sessions.

Pictured top right: The work party take a breather, having installed the ‘Camilla Stone’, below, commemorating the inauguration of the Wichelstowe landing stage

Above right: Sue Paine presents Camilla Duchess of CornwallwiththeDragonflyjigsawBelow:DragonflyarrivesatWichelstowe,September2010.Allcredit:ChrisBarry

Melksham Food & River Festival 2020

This column:1.RaftRaceBestDressedentry winners, The Rivermead Mermaids, with medals and certificate,presentedbyAdrianne Westbrook, Chair of theFestivalCommittee.2.ThewinningRaftRaceteam,Chippenham Young Farmers ‘A’,withAdrianneWestbrook.3.TheMaryArchardearning herkeep.4.Paddleboardentrants.Allcredit:MalcolmHitchinson

1

2

3

4

6 7

NOTE:Attimeofpress,theFestivalisstillgoingahead.Pleasecheckwww.melkshamfoodandriverfestival.co.ukforupdates.

This year’s Festival will be held over the weekend of 5 and 6 September but, as usual, the work starts long before that weekend. A year’s worth of planning and a week of site preparation, by Festival and Trust members, is already well under way to help make the weekend a great success. Thank you to the Festival Committee for their ongoing support!

The Trust’s Festival will start on Friday 4 September with the site set-up and, following on from last year’s successful launch, a series of charter trips, which last year contributed £90 to our weekend total. These are only available by prior arrangement, so pre-booking is essential.

The Festival proper starts on Saturday morning where, this year, around 90 stalls will be on site, selling a whole range of food and drink, as well as demonstrating the many crafts and skills that are on hand throughout Wiltshire, including stands and possible displays by the emergency services.

The Trust’s boat trips will begin by hosting a trip for the Melksham Carnival Royal Family. This year we will be back to running two trip boats, with Mary Archard again joined by Damselfly following her refit. These trips will be running throughout both days, subject to other river events; a timetable of trips will be published nearer the dates, but will be bookable in advance or on the day, subject to availability.

Saturday will also host the Festival Raft Race, sponsored by Foxhanger Canal Holidays. Do you want to enter a team? Entries for this can be made via the website at www.melkshamfoodandriverfestival.co.uk. The website will be up closer to the date of the event; if you cannot access the relevant page for entries, please try again a few days later.

Don’t let a disability put you off from enjoying a river trip; as last year demonstrated, the Mary Archard is a boat specifically designed to accommodate wheelchairs. Early booking, while not essential, is desirable, if this is likely to be a requirement for you. The adaptability of the Wilts & Berks team was proved last year when a partially sighted couple, complete with guide dogs, came up with a request we had not anticipated: “Will you please describe what we cannot see?” Bob Howlett stepped up admirably to take on this particular challenge to demonstrate another example of Community Engagement in action.

Both days hold lots in store, both on and off the river; there will be canoeing demonstrations and, subject to numbers, the flotilla will provide a parade of boats. While on land there is the opportunity to savour various refreshments as you wander around the site.

Last year, this great weekend was enjoyed by an estimated 6000 visitors. This year, we are anticipating even more, so don’t miss this opportunity to come and join us!

This weekend does not happen without our wonderful volunteers, who work tirelessly over the weekend. If you feel you can contribute to this effort, please contact me (Alan Lank) at alan.lank@wbct.org.uk.

Alan Lank

time as a passenger, to bring her to the ceremony by water. Wendy Cole and Annie Ireland had the privilege of crewing. There had been a prolonged dry spell, and some of us were very nervous about whether Dragonfly might run aground with the Duchess aboard; a few of us walked the towpath alongside, chatting amicably to Camilla’s security detail. We needn’t have worried – Thames Water had released large amounts of water into the canal overnight – and on the day it rained anyway! Sue Paine had the privilege of presenting the Duchess with a Dragonfly jigsaw – her concept!

All good things come to an end, and shortly after that Sue resigned – one of a number of people to do so around that time. It is amazing to consider how she ran the boat and its trips virtually single-handedly, doing the publicity leaflets and merchandising, organising the rota, banking the takings to the Swindon Branch account initially, and then setting up a separate account as takings increased. She was assisted only by Rob Yeowell, who looked after the mechanicals, and his wife Cheryll, who looked after provisioning the boat and collating the information from the log sheets. The same tasks are now done by a Committee with roles of Chair, Treasurer, Rota Organiser, Bookings, Maintenance, Publicity, Supplies and Statistics, and Meetings Secretary – plus Santa present organiser and a few actual Santas!

Is it worth it? You bet! Since she began doing trips, the Dragonfly accounts have passed well over £37,000 to Trust funds – that’s clear profit, which was much needed last year. The foresight of those involved at the time has been richly rewarded. And it’s not just about raising money for the Trust – Dragonfly has carried around 10,000 adults and children over nine trip seasons, 2000 of them in 2019, our best year so far. Therefore, a lot of people have become aware of the Trust and what we are doing; the publicity is invaluable and, no doubt, through her the Trust has acquired quite a lot of new members and volunteers!

Chris Barry

Picturedtopleft:They’reoff!Topright:WiltshireYouthCanoeClub‘trycanoeing’sessions.

Pictured top right: The work party take a breather, having installed the ‘Camilla Stone’, below, commemorating the inauguration of the Wichelstowe landing stage

Above right: Sue Paine presents Camilla Duchess of CornwallwiththeDragonflyjigsawBelow:DragonflyarrivesatWichelstowe,September2010.Allcredit:ChrisBarry

Melksham Food & River Festival 2020

This column:1.RaftRaceBestDressedentry winners, The Rivermead Mermaids, with medals and certificate,presentedbyAdrianne Westbrook, Chair of theFestivalCommittee.2.ThewinningRaftRaceteam,Chippenham Young Farmers ‘A’,withAdrianneWestbrook.3.TheMaryArchardearning herkeep.4.Paddleboardentrants.Allcredit:MalcolmHitchinson

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8 9

Trust Dates for the Diary

Growing up around the Stanley Aqueduct

With the coronavirus situation changing by the day, events may have to be postponed or cancelled. Please check the Trust website at http://wbct.org.uk or call 0845 625 1977 for the latest information on upcoming events.

WBCT Quiz NightThe Melksham, Chippenham & Calne branch is hosting the Trust’s annual quiz night on Friday, 17 April, at The Neeld, High Street, Chippenham SN15 3ER. The quiz starts at 7:30pm, with doors open at 7. Entry is £15 per team of up to four; refreshments and a licensed bar will be available. Teams must register by 10 April, and should email quiz@wbct.org.uk.The next quiz night is planned for Friday, 16 October 2020.

Royal Wootton Bassett Branch Annual General MeetingThe annual meeting of the RWB Branch will take place at 7:30pm on Monday, 4 May 2020, at the Angel Hotel, High Street, Royal Wootton Bassett, Swindon SN4 7AQ.

WBCT Annual General MeetingAlthough it may seem a long way off at the moment, preparations are already underway for the Trust’s Annual General Meeting. The AGM will be held on Saturday, 17 October 2020, at the Memorial Hall, Station Road, Royal Wootton Bassett, Swindon SN4 8EN. Trips will commence from 10.00am, and the AGM will take place at 2.00pm.

Local resident Dave Britton kindly sent his computer-generated impression of the valley of the River Marden, in the area around the long-collapsed Stanley Aqueduct. Dave tells us: ‘As a boy growing up in Chippenham, during the summer holidays, with other kids I ventured up to Blackbridge. Besides placing pennies on the railway for the engine to flatten, we explored climbing up the bridge the hard way and walking along the inspection “Little” bridge to cross the river underneath. All went well until a train driver grassed us all to my dad. No one ever got injured and all great fun, with lots of stories to tell our school mates after the holidays. I once travelled on the “Calney Bunk” to get to a Scout and Cub jamboree in Calne. It was great fun to sit comfy in the Edwardian seats, all plush velvet and open, all seats with tables between, and they were 3rd class.’

‘Our fun was to try and ride up Bremhill without standing on the pedals of my first and only three-speed Raleigh straight-handlebar bike. We all managed to get half way, but never managed Tour de France standard. Coming down was another challenge. How fast could one go without using the brakes? We all survived, somehow, and no one was injured. The bike survived, as I needed it for my paper round!’

The collapse of the Stanley Aqueduct in 1901 was one of the death knells for the canal as a commercial enterprise, although the canal was not formally abandoned until 1914.

If you would like to contribute any memories of growing up along the Wilts & Berks, please email the Editor at editor@wbct.org.uk. Photos are always welcome; at original resolution please, where possible!

Image: Computer-generated reconstruction of the Stanley Aqueduct carrying the canal over the River Mardenbeforeitscollapsein1901.Credit:DaveBritton

Since the last edition of Dragonfly, the small band of dedicated volunteers have moved to the top-floor letting rooms to start refurbishment. One room has been fully decorated and down-lighters installed. Its en-suite has been re-plastered (thanks Frank and John!); we need to tile the room and install replacement fittings, including a new shower unit.

Fiona has spent many an hour in the top loft clearing out old insulation (including straw!!), which amounted to over 140 bags, and removed 80 buckets of rubble. David, Janet and Stef have assisted with decorating and door/window sill installation and numerous other jobs.

Bedroom 3 needed an en-suite and, luckily, right next door was an old store/nursery room. This will be converted into the new en-suite with separate store for linen/towels, etc. We have had to cut two new doorways into this room and remove the lathe and plaster ceiling. Old floorboards had to be removed due to wood worm and beams treated.

Donated ply sheets were hauled up two flights of stairs so that Richard could start laying a new floor, whilst sheets of plasterboard (how heavy are these?) took the same route so that Chris and Kevin could install the new ceiling.

While all this was going on downstairs, Dave and Mike tackled the myriad cables in the roof space. Many of them are no longer used, but had just been discarded. Ensuring

they were safe to cut prior to removal was of course paramount, but finding a reliable live cable tester was a challenge. Existing cables have been raised to beam level so that they are above the new loft insulation. The top floor will have down-lighters throughout, and a few pounds have been saved by purchasing items in the Homebase closing down sale early in 2019.

As you can imagine, we still have a way to go, with a stud wall to build, plumbing in new units and the challenge of connecting the new toilet to the existing system, which is not exactly close by.

We are bolstered by Fiona’s delicious cakes and the odd packet of jam dough nuts and have made ourselves comfortable in a first-floor letting room that doubles as our crew room before we start refurbishing it during the summer.

We plan to have a small fair in the spring/summer to help raise much-needed funds to complete the refurbishment, and hope that some of you can pop along and support us. Look out for details in social media or the Trust website.

Dave Maloney, Refurbishment Team

Pictured above: Ongoing refurbishment work at thePeterboroughArms.CreditDaveMaloneyPe

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CANCELLEDCANCELLED

8 9

Trust Dates for the Diary

Growing up around the Stanley Aqueduct

With the coronavirus situation changing by the day, events may have to be postponed or cancelled. Please check the Trust website at http://wbct.org.uk or call 0845 625 1977 for the latest information on upcoming events.

WBCT Quiz NightThe Melksham, Chippenham & Calne branch is hosting the Trust’s annual quiz night on Friday, 17 April, at The Neeld, High Street, Chippenham SN15 3ER. The quiz starts at 7:30pm, with doors open at 7. Entry is £15 per team of up to four; refreshments and a licensed bar will be available. Teams must register by 10 April, and should email quiz@wbct.org.uk.The next quiz night is planned for Friday, 16 October 2020.

Royal Wootton Bassett Branch Annual General MeetingThe annual meeting of the RWB Branch will take place at 7:30pm on Monday, 4 May 2020, at the Angel Hotel, High Street, Royal Wootton Bassett, Swindon SN4 7AQ.

WBCT Annual General MeetingAlthough it may seem a long way off at the moment, preparations are already underway for the Trust’s Annual General Meeting. The AGM will be held on Saturday, 17 October 2020, at the Memorial Hall, Station Road, Royal Wootton Bassett, Swindon SN4 8EN. Trips will commence from 10.00am, and the AGM will take place at 2.00pm.

Local resident Dave Britton kindly sent his computer-generated impression of the valley of the River Marden, in the area around the long-collapsed Stanley Aqueduct. Dave tells us: ‘As a boy growing up in Chippenham, during the summer holidays, with other kids I ventured up to Blackbridge. Besides placing pennies on the railway for the engine to flatten, we explored climbing up the bridge the hard way and walking along the inspection “Little” bridge to cross the river underneath. All went well until a train driver grassed us all to my dad. No one ever got injured and all great fun, with lots of stories to tell our school mates after the holidays. I once travelled on the “Calney Bunk” to get to a Scout and Cub jamboree in Calne. It was great fun to sit comfy in the Edwardian seats, all plush velvet and open, all seats with tables between, and they were 3rd class.’

‘Our fun was to try and ride up Bremhill without standing on the pedals of my first and only three-speed Raleigh straight-handlebar bike. We all managed to get half way, but never managed Tour de France standard. Coming down was another challenge. How fast could one go without using the brakes? We all survived, somehow, and no one was injured. The bike survived, as I needed it for my paper round!’

The collapse of the Stanley Aqueduct in 1901 was one of the death knells for the canal as a commercial enterprise, although the canal was not formally abandoned until 1914.

If you would like to contribute any memories of growing up along the Wilts & Berks, please email the Editor at editor@wbct.org.uk. Photos are always welcome; at original resolution please, where possible!

Image: Computer-generated reconstruction of the Stanley Aqueduct carrying the canal over the River Mardenbeforeitscollapsein1901.Credit:DaveBritton

Since the last edition of Dragonfly, the small band of dedicated volunteers have moved to the top-floor letting rooms to start refurbishment. One room has been fully decorated and down-lighters installed. Its en-suite has been re-plastered (thanks Frank and John!); we need to tile the room and install replacement fittings, including a new shower unit.

Fiona has spent many an hour in the top loft clearing out old insulation (including straw!!), which amounted to over 140 bags, and removed 80 buckets of rubble. David, Janet and Stef have assisted with decorating and door/window sill installation and numerous other jobs.

Bedroom 3 needed an en-suite and, luckily, right next door was an old store/nursery room. This will be converted into the new en-suite with separate store for linen/towels, etc. We have had to cut two new doorways into this room and remove the lathe and plaster ceiling. Old floorboards had to be removed due to wood worm and beams treated.

Donated ply sheets were hauled up two flights of stairs so that Richard could start laying a new floor, whilst sheets of plasterboard (how heavy are these?) took the same route so that Chris and Kevin could install the new ceiling.

While all this was going on downstairs, Dave and Mike tackled the myriad cables in the roof space. Many of them are no longer used, but had just been discarded. Ensuring

they were safe to cut prior to removal was of course paramount, but finding a reliable live cable tester was a challenge. Existing cables have been raised to beam level so that they are above the new loft insulation. The top floor will have down-lighters throughout, and a few pounds have been saved by purchasing items in the Homebase closing down sale early in 2019.

As you can imagine, we still have a way to go, with a stud wall to build, plumbing in new units and the challenge of connecting the new toilet to the existing system, which is not exactly close by.

We are bolstered by Fiona’s delicious cakes and the odd packet of jam dough nuts and have made ourselves comfortable in a first-floor letting room that doubles as our crew room before we start refurbishing it during the summer.

We plan to have a small fair in the spring/summer to help raise much-needed funds to complete the refurbishment, and hope that some of you can pop along and support us. Look out for details in social media or the Trust website.

Dave Maloney, Refurbishment Team

Pictured above: Ongoing refurbishment work at thePeterboroughArms.CreditDaveMaloneyPe

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CANCELLEDCANCELLED

10 11

My Wilts & Berks Book Sales at the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust Visitor Centre

Some 30 years ago, we had a share in a narrowboat and had many enjoyable holidays on her. I joined the Trust in the 1980s, but was a passive member until I retired. I’d been aware of NB Dragonfly via this magazine, which I read avidly, so in 2013 I offered to become a skipper. To my horror, I was told I had to do a 3-day residential course (on a boat) to obtain a licence! I was most indignant – why should I have to do this? But it was the only way, so I reluctantly turned up to the Kennet and Avon at Great Bedwyn – then really enjoyed the course, learning a lot!

While skippering, I was amazed at how few of our passengers knew there was a canal in Swindon at all. Having previously been a Parish Councillor, I expressed an interest in doing something on the planning side; I started going to meetings, and before I knew it I was getting involved in the New Eastern Villages section. Meanwhile, the Dragonfly Boat Team was being formed, following Sue Paine’s resignation, and I found myself as Chair. As such, I was invited onto the Exec itself. This in turn was an eye-opener, and I became one of those recently retired people with too much to do! But it’s enjoyable and stimulating, and it’s a great feeling to be part of such a worthwhile, albeit ridiculously ambitious, project. And I still love skippering Dragonfly!

Chris Barry

Unfortunately, the book sales at the Visitor Centre are one of many events that have had to be cancelled as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. Please check the Trust’s website and other communications channels for news of future events, once things start to return to normal.

The Visitor Centre is the new name for the former WBCT information centre. The Trust was hoping to open the centre for sales of second-hand books on the first Friday and Saturday of each month from April to October. We have a stock of books of all kinds so, once we are in a position to start accepting donations again, we will only be able to accept further specialist canal books or children’s books in good condition; thank you for your understanding!

The business of running the Trust’s activities still goes on, despite the lockdown. Volunteers for future book sales are very welcome. Anyone interested in staffing the book sales once they are able to restart would be very welcome. Please contact Helen Thomas via the Trust office (phone 0845 625 1977 or email info@wbct.org.uk). We plan to have two shifts of 3 hours per day, so that’s a lot of people!

The centre is opposite Swindon Central library, at 1 Regent Circus, Swindon SN1 1QN.

What are you doing to that hedge?

Followers of the Trust’s Facebook page might have seen this picture in early March, showing the fantastic hedgelaying job that the Swindon work party has done at Wichelstowe. It shows how the nature of rural living has changed that some passers-by took exception to how the poor hedge was being treated! Fortunately, they seemed reassured once the purpose of the laying process was explained, but this is an indicator of the decline of the art and extent of hedgelaying during the 20th century.

Before the introduction of wire fencing in the 19th century, laying a hedge was the best way of producing a stock-proof barrier; even new-born lambs will struggle to escape through a well-laid hedge. The process of laying the hedge involves cutting part-way

through the stem of the hedgerow trees so that they can then be laid down towards the horizontal. Some of the bark and sapwood must be left intact to keep the cut stem (or pleacher) alive, but the main new growth will come from the stump where the stem has been cut; the laid pleachers form a barrier and support for the new growth. Stakes are added at regular intervals to support the newly laid hedge, and the tops of these stakes are often kept in place by weaving binders around the tops of the stakes. Laying should be done before birds start to nest in the hedge (October to March), and stakes and binders are generally prepared over the winter months as byproducts from coppicing and other woodland maintenance tasks. Laying a hedge is not only good for producing a sturdy barrier

Love on boardDragonfly has been running very successful weekend trips in the New Year, but no one quite expected her to form the backdrop to a marriage proposal! But that’s what happened in February during a charter trip. We wish the happy couple (also pictured on the cover) many congratulations and all the best for their future life together! For information on Dragonfly trips, call the boat team on 07401 220076 or email boat.bookings@wbct.org.uk. The weekend trips had already been suspended before the coronavirus lockdown so that Dragonfly could undergo some much-needed maintenance. The Trust has also launched an appeal to help fund Dragonfly’s upkeep - donations can be made via the Trust website at www.wbct.org.uk/get-involved/dragonfly-10-appeal

The draws for this year’s Wilts & Berks Canal Trust 200 Club started in March, and carry on through to December. This month’s lucky tickets were:

1st Prize, £120 – Ticket no. 1582nd Prize, £60 – Ticket no. 1993rd Prize, £30 – Ticket no. 28

Well done to all our lucky winners!

Entries for the 2020 200 Club are now closed. Details of how to sign up for 2021 will be posted later in the year.

200 Club Winners

Picturedtop:ThenewlylaidhedgeatWichelstowe.Credit:ChrisBarryPicturedabove:ThetopofahedgelaidintheSouthofEnglandstyle,showinghazelheatheringsandstakes.Credit:MatthewChatfield

10 11

My Wilts & Berks Book Sales at the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust Visitor Centre

Some 30 years ago, we had a share in a narrowboat and had many enjoyable holidays on her. I joined the Trust in the 1980s, but was a passive member until I retired. I’d been aware of NB Dragonfly via this magazine, which I read avidly, so in 2013 I offered to become a skipper. To my horror, I was told I had to do a 3-day residential course (on a boat) to obtain a licence! I was most indignant – why should I have to do this? But it was the only way, so I reluctantly turned up to the Kennet and Avon at Great Bedwyn – then really enjoyed the course, learning a lot!

While skippering, I was amazed at how few of our passengers knew there was a canal in Swindon at all. Having previously been a Parish Councillor, I expressed an interest in doing something on the planning side; I started going to meetings, and before I knew it I was getting involved in the New Eastern Villages section. Meanwhile, the Dragonfly Boat Team was being formed, following Sue Paine’s resignation, and I found myself as Chair. As such, I was invited onto the Exec itself. This in turn was an eye-opener, and I became one of those recently retired people with too much to do! But it’s enjoyable and stimulating, and it’s a great feeling to be part of such a worthwhile, albeit ridiculously ambitious, project. And I still love skippering Dragonfly!

Chris Barry

Unfortunately, the book sales at the Visitor Centre are one of many events that have had to be cancelled as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. Please check the Trust’s website and other communications channels for news of future events, once things start to return to normal.

The Visitor Centre is the new name for the former WBCT information centre. The Trust was hoping to open the centre for sales of second-hand books on the first Friday and Saturday of each month from April to October. We have a stock of books of all kinds so, once we are in a position to start accepting donations again, we will only be able to accept further specialist canal books or children’s books in good condition; thank you for your understanding!

The business of running the Trust’s activities still goes on, despite the lockdown. Volunteers for future book sales are very welcome. Anyone interested in staffing the book sales once they are able to restart would be very welcome. Please contact Helen Thomas via the Trust office (phone 0845 625 1977 or email info@wbct.org.uk). We plan to have two shifts of 3 hours per day, so that’s a lot of people!

The centre is opposite Swindon Central library, at 1 Regent Circus, Swindon SN1 1QN.

What are you doing to that hedge?

Followers of the Trust’s Facebook page might have seen this picture in early March, showing the fantastic hedgelaying job that the Swindon work party has done at Wichelstowe. It shows how the nature of rural living has changed that some passers-by took exception to how the poor hedge was being treated! Fortunately, they seemed reassured once the purpose of the laying process was explained, but this is an indicator of the decline of the art and extent of hedgelaying during the 20th century.

Before the introduction of wire fencing in the 19th century, laying a hedge was the best way of producing a stock-proof barrier; even new-born lambs will struggle to escape through a well-laid hedge. The process of laying the hedge involves cutting part-way

through the stem of the hedgerow trees so that they can then be laid down towards the horizontal. Some of the bark and sapwood must be left intact to keep the cut stem (or pleacher) alive, but the main new growth will come from the stump where the stem has been cut; the laid pleachers form a barrier and support for the new growth. Stakes are added at regular intervals to support the newly laid hedge, and the tops of these stakes are often kept in place by weaving binders around the tops of the stakes. Laying should be done before birds start to nest in the hedge (October to March), and stakes and binders are generally prepared over the winter months as byproducts from coppicing and other woodland maintenance tasks. Laying a hedge is not only good for producing a sturdy barrier

Love on boardDragonfly has been running very successful weekend trips in the New Year, but no one quite expected her to form the backdrop to a marriage proposal! But that’s what happened in February during a charter trip. We wish the happy couple (also pictured on the cover) many congratulations and all the best for their future life together! For information on Dragonfly trips, call the boat team on 07401 220076 or email boat.bookings@wbct.org.uk. The weekend trips had already been suspended before the coronavirus lockdown so that Dragonfly could undergo some much-needed maintenance. The Trust has also launched an appeal to help fund Dragonfly’s upkeep - donations can be made via the Trust website at www.wbct.org.uk/get-involved/dragonfly-10-appeal

The draws for this year’s Wilts & Berks Canal Trust 200 Club started in March, and carry on through to December. This month’s lucky tickets were:

1st Prize, £120 – Ticket no. 1582nd Prize, £60 – Ticket no. 1993rd Prize, £30 – Ticket no. 28

Well done to all our lucky winners!

Entries for the 2020 200 Club are now closed. Details of how to sign up for 2021 will be posted later in the year.

200 Club Winners

Picturedtop:ThenewlylaidhedgeatWichelstowe.Credit:ChrisBarryPicturedabove:ThetopofahedgelaidintheSouthofEnglandstyle,showinghazelheatheringsandstakes.Credit:MatthewChatfield

12 13

– it also promotes fresh growth of the hedgerow trees and produces a dense habitat for wildlife.

There are several distinct styles of hedgelaying practiced in Britain and Ireland (and to a limited extent on the near Continent and in Australia). The hedge at Wichelstowe looks to have been laid in the Midland style (although without binders), which is the style most commonly seen in central-southern England and the Midlands, particularly suited to enclosing beef cattle. Some styles, such as the “quick and dirty” Isle of Wight hedge, have virtually disappeared from the countryside.

Hedgelaying declined after the Second World War as a result of several factors, including lack of labour, increased mechanisation of farming and the availability of artificial barriers. By the 1960s there was a serious shortage of skilled hedgelayers, and lack of maintenance meant that many hedges became tall and gappy with little growth at the base; in effect, they became avenues of trees. However, even these

“former hedges” can often be renovated by laying, and brought back to vigorous growth. A laid hedge does require some sympathy when cutting – for instance, a mechanical hedge cutter must be used in the direction of laying, to avoid ripping out the stakes and binders.

The National Hedgelaying Society exists to promote the art and skill of hedgelaying, as well as to organise competitive hedgelaying championships. They can also help you to find a hedgelayer or to find training courses if you would like to have a go for yourself. Several years ago, I took a training course organised by the West Berkshire Countryside Society, and I can guarantee you a rewarding experience and one that will certainly help you to work up a thirst. Since then I have laid several hedges, although I cannot hope to come close to professional speeds of up to 50 metres per day!

See the website of the National Hedgelaying Society at www.hedgelaying.org.uk for more information.

Robin Dunford

I mentioned in the last Dragonfly (Issue 152, Winter 2019) that we had been having problems following the destruction by vandals of our footbridge which crosses Hancocks Water just before it flows into the canal. We have been lucky enough to receive some generous donations, including one from the Royal Wootton Bassett (RWB) Town Council, towards the cost of a new bridge, backed up with a generous loan from one of our members. We had good advice and guidance from our Engineering Committee, and it was decided to purchase a bridge kit from a company in Ross on Wye, which was delivered in early September; all the parts were in one huge package, which reminded me of the old MFI days!

This is the third bridge we have erected in this location; the first two were constructed out of scrap timber we had acquired in various ways and then bridged the gap over the stream as best we could. However, things are different now, and a different approach would be needed. Our stream is classed as a main river, so it becomes more important; the banks had eroded since the previous bridge was built, so would need reinforcing, and foundations made of substantial concrete slabs would be needed.

We started work in early November, clearing and strimming the site and creating a large compound. We decided to reinforce the stream banks with heavy

concrete blocks that we would make ourselves. To do this, we would have to transport five tons of ballast to the site using the pontoon towed by our work boat. The ballast was shovelled into manageable-sized plastic sacks that had to be handled about five times before arriving at the compound. One of our work party team made up four moulds, each of which could hold a dozen blocks. Each week for five weeks, we emptied the moulds and refilled them for the next week. Once they had ‘cured’, we were able to place them in the stream bed and against the banks to prevent further erosion, with two people in a metre of water in waders and a chain of people handing them down – not much fun in December! Making the blocks used up all our gravel, so we started the New Year by transporting a further six tons to the bridge site. The holes were dug for the foundations and filled with concrete reinforced with steel mesh. We also filled numerous sandbags with concrete to top the concrete blocks and secure them in place. We then had the problem of how to transport the six-metre, quarter-ton beams and the rest of the

timber to the site. The pontoon was the only answer, as the paths were almost unwalkable because of the mud. Unfortunately, just before we were due to move the bridge kit, the compound at Templars Firs was broken in to and a few pieces of decking timber were stolen, with considerable damage to the compound fencing. A couple of rough sleepers had set up camp nearby and spent a number of weeks in a tent in the coldest and wettest part of January. Our stolen timber helped stoke their camp fire and provide some warmth. Desperate times for them, and sobering thoughts for us. Seeing their predicament did temper our anger at having our timber pinched.

We were able to transport each beam to the pontoon on our small trolley before sliding them on to the deck. At the bridge end, we slid them off the pontoon on to some black composite beams donated by Swindon branch, which were to be used to sit the ends of the beams on when in position. The beams were then in perfect position, in the sunshine, for us to sit on for lunch after first making another trip to collect the rest

of the bridge components. We were then able to slide the beams to the compound on the black composite beams, with a considerable amount of grunting and groaning. We even managed to span the stream to install the beams on the foundations before securing the rest of the bridge parts, after which we called it a day.

After all the preparation work we had done, putting the bridge together was a more straightforward task, without too many problems, and was completed in a further three work party days. In early March, we were able to remove some of our compound fencing

and leave the bridge open to the public. There is still some work to do, and we will have to replace some of the temporary deck planks when we receive the replacements for the ones used as firewood.

What a huge effort made through the worst of a wet winter by a group of not young but very enthusiastic volunteers, to persevere with a difficult project and to find ways of getting things done! In fact, typical of so many WBCT volunteers doing so many different things to help achieve our goal of a restored canal.

JohnBower

News from Royal Wootton Bassett

Pictured right: Laying the decking on the new bridge, on26February.Handrailshavebeen installed at either end of the newbridge.The bridge ready for use, with reclaimed timber temporarily standing in for the missingdecking.The bridge approaches have been designed to be accessible by mobilityscooter.All credit: Steve Bacon

12 13

– it also promotes fresh growth of the hedgerow trees and produces a dense habitat for wildlife.

There are several distinct styles of hedgelaying practiced in Britain and Ireland (and to a limited extent on the near Continent and in Australia). The hedge at Wichelstowe looks to have been laid in the Midland style (although without binders), which is the style most commonly seen in central-southern England and the Midlands, particularly suited to enclosing beef cattle. Some styles, such as the “quick and dirty” Isle of Wight hedge, have virtually disappeared from the countryside.

Hedgelaying declined after the Second World War as a result of several factors, including lack of labour, increased mechanisation of farming and the availability of artificial barriers. By the 1960s there was a serious shortage of skilled hedgelayers, and lack of maintenance meant that many hedges became tall and gappy with little growth at the base; in effect, they became avenues of trees. However, even these

“former hedges” can often be renovated by laying, and brought back to vigorous growth. A laid hedge does require some sympathy when cutting – for instance, a mechanical hedge cutter must be used in the direction of laying, to avoid ripping out the stakes and binders.

The National Hedgelaying Society exists to promote the art and skill of hedgelaying, as well as to organise competitive hedgelaying championships. They can also help you to find a hedgelayer or to find training courses if you would like to have a go for yourself. Several years ago, I took a training course organised by the West Berkshire Countryside Society, and I can guarantee you a rewarding experience and one that will certainly help you to work up a thirst. Since then I have laid several hedges, although I cannot hope to come close to professional speeds of up to 50 metres per day!

See the website of the National Hedgelaying Society at www.hedgelaying.org.uk for more information.

Robin Dunford

I mentioned in the last Dragonfly (Issue 152, Winter 2019) that we had been having problems following the destruction by vandals of our footbridge which crosses Hancocks Water just before it flows into the canal. We have been lucky enough to receive some generous donations, including one from the Royal Wootton Bassett (RWB) Town Council, towards the cost of a new bridge, backed up with a generous loan from one of our members. We had good advice and guidance from our Engineering Committee, and it was decided to purchase a bridge kit from a company in Ross on Wye, which was delivered in early September; all the parts were in one huge package, which reminded me of the old MFI days!

This is the third bridge we have erected in this location; the first two were constructed out of scrap timber we had acquired in various ways and then bridged the gap over the stream as best we could. However, things are different now, and a different approach would be needed. Our stream is classed as a main river, so it becomes more important; the banks had eroded since the previous bridge was built, so would need reinforcing, and foundations made of substantial concrete slabs would be needed.

We started work in early November, clearing and strimming the site and creating a large compound. We decided to reinforce the stream banks with heavy

concrete blocks that we would make ourselves. To do this, we would have to transport five tons of ballast to the site using the pontoon towed by our work boat. The ballast was shovelled into manageable-sized plastic sacks that had to be handled about five times before arriving at the compound. One of our work party team made up four moulds, each of which could hold a dozen blocks. Each week for five weeks, we emptied the moulds and refilled them for the next week. Once they had ‘cured’, we were able to place them in the stream bed and against the banks to prevent further erosion, with two people in a metre of water in waders and a chain of people handing them down – not much fun in December! Making the blocks used up all our gravel, so we started the New Year by transporting a further six tons to the bridge site. The holes were dug for the foundations and filled with concrete reinforced with steel mesh. We also filled numerous sandbags with concrete to top the concrete blocks and secure them in place. We then had the problem of how to transport the six-metre, quarter-ton beams and the rest of the

timber to the site. The pontoon was the only answer, as the paths were almost unwalkable because of the mud. Unfortunately, just before we were due to move the bridge kit, the compound at Templars Firs was broken in to and a few pieces of decking timber were stolen, with considerable damage to the compound fencing. A couple of rough sleepers had set up camp nearby and spent a number of weeks in a tent in the coldest and wettest part of January. Our stolen timber helped stoke their camp fire and provide some warmth. Desperate times for them, and sobering thoughts for us. Seeing their predicament did temper our anger at having our timber pinched.

We were able to transport each beam to the pontoon on our small trolley before sliding them on to the deck. At the bridge end, we slid them off the pontoon on to some black composite beams donated by Swindon branch, which were to be used to sit the ends of the beams on when in position. The beams were then in perfect position, in the sunshine, for us to sit on for lunch after first making another trip to collect the rest

of the bridge components. We were then able to slide the beams to the compound on the black composite beams, with a considerable amount of grunting and groaning. We even managed to span the stream to install the beams on the foundations before securing the rest of the bridge parts, after which we called it a day.

After all the preparation work we had done, putting the bridge together was a more straightforward task, without too many problems, and was completed in a further three work party days. In early March, we were able to remove some of our compound fencing

and leave the bridge open to the public. There is still some work to do, and we will have to replace some of the temporary deck planks when we receive the replacements for the ones used as firewood.

What a huge effort made through the worst of a wet winter by a group of not young but very enthusiastic volunteers, to persevere with a difficult project and to find ways of getting things done! In fact, typical of so many WBCT volunteers doing so many different things to help achieve our goal of a restored canal.

JohnBower

News from Royal Wootton Bassett

Pictured right: Laying the decking on the new bridge, on26February.Handrailshavebeen installed at either end of the newbridge.The bridge ready for use, with reclaimed timber temporarily standing in for the missingdecking.The bridge approaches have been designed to be accessible by mobilityscooter.All credit: Steve Bacon

14 15

News from Melksham, Calne, Chippenham Branch and Foxham & Lyneham sub branchWork continues on the Pewsham Locks site, where we are just finishing off the chamber for bottom lock bywash. We are finalising the Project Control Document for the Top Lock Bridge, having carried out some exploratory work, and, by the time you read this, work should have started on the bullnose and fore walls of Top Lock prior to bridge constructions. We are indebted to Mike Lee and John Shrives from the Engineering team for their invaluable input.

After much investigation, we finally tracked down the leak at Pewsham which caused us so much hassle last year and are confident, subject to Hannah’s stream continuing to supply us water, that we will be able to run boat trips using the Mary Archard. These trips will run on the second Saturdays of each month from April to September 2020 from 10.30am on these days. There will also be a chance to grab refreshments at our Pop Up Café on the wharf. [Ed: as with all other public Trust events, boat trips are suspended until further notice because of the coronavirus situation.]

Whilst not yet accessible to the general public, we have started work on removing the ramshackle building at our Queenfield Farm site. The first job was to remove thirty asbestos cement boards, and we were lucky enough to get advice and practical help from Steve

Leake, who has experience of such work. Peter Holley dealt with the all-important Risk Assessments and Methods Statements that enabled five volunteers to safely carry out this unusual (for WBCT) task.

Now that a new lease has been sorted, our work on the A4 north section has recommenced, and we hope to have the 50-plus tree stumps removed from the tow path in due course. Access to the site has proved impossible to date, even with 4×4 vehicles, due to the volume of lying water.

Meanwhile, Bill P, our maintenance guru, continues to maintain our powered equipment and plant. His extensive overhaul of our Winget 4 dumper means that it will be “online” soon.

Our forestry team and other volunteers have successfully logged a large amount of timber, which will be available in the autumn, in return for donations.

Thanks to a radio interview earlier in the year and subsequent newspaper publicity, we have recruited a number of new active volunteers who have joined the work parties along our section of the line.

Destination Lacock is a project to reopen the towpath between Melksham and Lacock. Presentations have been made to local councils and Wiltshire County

Council’s Planning Department. These presentations have been well received, and engagement with local landowners is ongoing.

Our Melksham Link project team have had some encouraging correspondence and even telephone conversations with the Environment Agency (EA). We have also had a useful meeting with the head of planning at Wiltshire Council. The result of these recent deliberations is that it has been agreed in principle that all but one of the outstanding issues can be dealt with by planning conditions. The one exception relates to the fisheries specialist who, apparently, has not had enough time to consider whether a planning condition would be appropriate. So, once more, we wait !

Meanwhile, we have said we will put some more detail on the outline plans in the masterplan regarding possible wetland habitat creation downstream of the new weir to mitigate its negative effects. Not being wetland experts, we have contacted Slimbridge Wetland Centre, and a meeting with their experts on site is planned in March. Judging by the river levels over the past few weeks, creating wetland habitat in the flood plain shouldn’t be a problem!

In view of the more helpful attitude of the EA recently, we haven’t progressed the official complaint against them, but we will keep this under review.

Finally for this edition, the branch has a list of events for 2020 ranging from boat trips on the river Avon at the Chippenham Folk Festival and the Melksham River Festival to supporting runners at local events. We also have a number of social events such as the annual skittles match against our friends at the local Kennet and Avon Canal branch and our summer dinner, which will be held at the Bell Inn, Lacock, in June. More details of these events can be found on the Trust website and, if you’d like to be in involved in any way, don’t hesitate to contact us!

Dave Maloney, Chair MCC and F&L branches From

the

arc

hive

s The Swindon Advertiser of Saturday, 1 September 1894, carried a report of an inquest held at the Peterborough Arms at Dauntsey Lock. The inquest concerned the death of 18-year-old Albert Robbins, who had drowned in the canal. There was still a station at Dauntsey at that time (the GWR station was closed as part of the Beeching cuts in 1965, and most of the buildings were demolished in 1977), and Albert had arrived at the station on the previous Wednesday evening with two other men to unload some cattle that had arrived from Scotland by train.

Unfortunately, a gate to one of the pens was not closed properly, and some of the cows had taken the opportunity to explore their new surroundings. Some of the cattle took to the towpath of the Wilts & Berks, and Albert and his colleagues set off in the darkness to round up the escapees. By midnight, when Albert had not returned, the alarm was raised. All that could be seen was Albert’s stick, floating in 10 feet of water near the lock. It was 2:30 in the morning before Albert’s lifeless body was recovered from the canal. A verdict of accidental death was returned, with a recommendation that a gate should be installed to prevent a repetition of the tragic events of that night.

Robin DunfordPictured left: The forestry team get busy with lumberAbove:GearedupforasbestosremovalatQueenfieldFarm. Both credit: Dave Maloney

14 15

News from Melksham, Calne, Chippenham Branch and Foxham & Lyneham sub branchWork continues on the Pewsham Locks site, where we are just finishing off the chamber for bottom lock bywash. We are finalising the Project Control Document for the Top Lock Bridge, having carried out some exploratory work, and, by the time you read this, work should have started on the bullnose and fore walls of Top Lock prior to bridge constructions. We are indebted to Mike Lee and John Shrives from the Engineering team for their invaluable input.

After much investigation, we finally tracked down the leak at Pewsham which caused us so much hassle last year and are confident, subject to Hannah’s stream continuing to supply us water, that we will be able to run boat trips using the Mary Archard. These trips will run on the second Saturdays of each month from April to September 2020 from 10.30am on these days. There will also be a chance to grab refreshments at our Pop Up Café on the wharf. [Ed: as with all other public Trust events, boat trips are suspended until further notice because of the coronavirus situation.]

Whilst not yet accessible to the general public, we have started work on removing the ramshackle building at our Queenfield Farm site. The first job was to remove thirty asbestos cement boards, and we were lucky enough to get advice and practical help from Steve

Leake, who has experience of such work. Peter Holley dealt with the all-important Risk Assessments and Methods Statements that enabled five volunteers to safely carry out this unusual (for WBCT) task.

Now that a new lease has been sorted, our work on the A4 north section has recommenced, and we hope to have the 50-plus tree stumps removed from the tow path in due course. Access to the site has proved impossible to date, even with 4×4 vehicles, due to the volume of lying water.

Meanwhile, Bill P, our maintenance guru, continues to maintain our powered equipment and plant. His extensive overhaul of our Winget 4 dumper means that it will be “online” soon.

Our forestry team and other volunteers have successfully logged a large amount of timber, which will be available in the autumn, in return for donations.

Thanks to a radio interview earlier in the year and subsequent newspaper publicity, we have recruited a number of new active volunteers who have joined the work parties along our section of the line.

Destination Lacock is a project to reopen the towpath between Melksham and Lacock. Presentations have been made to local councils and Wiltshire County

Council’s Planning Department. These presentations have been well received, and engagement with local landowners is ongoing.

Our Melksham Link project team have had some encouraging correspondence and even telephone conversations with the Environment Agency (EA). We have also had a useful meeting with the head of planning at Wiltshire Council. The result of these recent deliberations is that it has been agreed in principle that all but one of the outstanding issues can be dealt with by planning conditions. The one exception relates to the fisheries specialist who, apparently, has not had enough time to consider whether a planning condition would be appropriate. So, once more, we wait !

Meanwhile, we have said we will put some more detail on the outline plans in the masterplan regarding possible wetland habitat creation downstream of the new weir to mitigate its negative effects. Not being wetland experts, we have contacted Slimbridge Wetland Centre, and a meeting with their experts on site is planned in March. Judging by the river levels over the past few weeks, creating wetland habitat in the flood plain shouldn’t be a problem!

In view of the more helpful attitude of the EA recently, we haven’t progressed the official complaint against them, but we will keep this under review.

Finally for this edition, the branch has a list of events for 2020 ranging from boat trips on the river Avon at the Chippenham Folk Festival and the Melksham River Festival to supporting runners at local events. We also have a number of social events such as the annual skittles match against our friends at the local Kennet and Avon Canal branch and our summer dinner, which will be held at the Bell Inn, Lacock, in June. More details of these events can be found on the Trust website and, if you’d like to be in involved in any way, don’t hesitate to contact us!

Dave Maloney, Chair MCC and F&L branches From

the

arc

hive

s The Swindon Advertiser of Saturday, 1 September 1894, carried a report of an inquest held at the Peterborough Arms at Dauntsey Lock. The inquest concerned the death of 18-year-old Albert Robbins, who had drowned in the canal. There was still a station at Dauntsey at that time (the GWR station was closed as part of the Beeching cuts in 1965, and most of the buildings were demolished in 1977), and Albert had arrived at the station on the previous Wednesday evening with two other men to unload some cattle that had arrived from Scotland by train.

Unfortunately, a gate to one of the pens was not closed properly, and some of the cows had taken the opportunity to explore their new surroundings. Some of the cattle took to the towpath of the Wilts & Berks, and Albert and his colleagues set off in the darkness to round up the escapees. By midnight, when Albert had not returned, the alarm was raised. All that could be seen was Albert’s stick, floating in 10 feet of water near the lock. It was 2:30 in the morning before Albert’s lifeless body was recovered from the canal. A verdict of accidental death was returned, with a recommendation that a gate should be installed to prevent a repetition of the tragic events of that night.

Robin DunfordPictured left: The forestry team get busy with lumberAbove:GearedupforasbestosremovalatQueenfieldFarm. Both credit: Dave Maloney

16

Wilts & Berks Canal Trust

1. Great Bedwyn2. Semington3. Melksham Link4. Queenfield Farm5. Bell Inn, Lacock6. Pewsham7. Stanley

Aqueduct, Blackbridge, Bremhill

8. Dauntsey Lock, Peterborough Arms

9. Hancocks Water, Templars Firs

10. Hay Lane11. Kingshill12. Canalside,

Waitrose, Landing Stage, Hall & Woodhouse Pub

13. New Eastern VillagesFor more detailed location information, check out the WBCT Interactive Map at www.wbct.org.uk/ the-canal/interactive-map.

Details of all the photos included in the Summer and Winter 2019 issues of Dragonfly, including captions and photo credits, are available from the Trust’s Instagram feed (@wiltsandberkscanaltrust); use the hashtags #Dragonflysummer19 and #Dragonflywinter19.

Locations mentioned in Dragonfly

It’s time to inspire and excite... #wiltsandberkscanal

Received with thanksBrian Wright, trust volunteer, was delighted to receive a Community Donation cheque from Chippenham Town Council in February. Their citation reads ‘Wilts & Berks Canal Trust are a charity working to preserve, conserve and improve the route of the canal. They are holding a quiz night at the Neeld Community & Arts Centre and will use the grant money to pay for the hire of the venue, so all proceeds raised can go directly to the charity.’ Unfortunately, the quiz night has had to be cancelled as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. See Dates for the Diary for news of the next scheduled quiz night. Our thanks to the mayor, Councillor Desna Allen, for presenting the cheque and to Chippenham Town Council for their generosity.

Pictured: Brian Wright receives a Community Donation from the mayor ofChippenham,CllrDesnaAllen.Credit:ChippenhamTownCouncil