Success for volunteers restoring the Wey and Arun Canal - despite lockdowns

Working parties of the Wey and Arun Canal Trust, boat crew and office volunteers were stood down during the spring lockdown and again at the end of the year.

But, despite that, the volunteers carried out almost as many hours’ work as in the previous year.

When regular working parties were able to resume, teams were kept to small groups to manage the restrictions, but several working parties increased the number of days they operated.

One group which usually operates on a Thursday, began working five days a week with reduced numbers to make up for lost time on the Harsfold Bridge project at Wisborough Green.

And, despite winter storms, flooding and the pandemic hampering construction, the team managed to complete the project on time in late summer.

Volunteers were also able to work across several days at the latest major project, the Tickner’s Heath road crossing at Alfold.

Operating during the pandemic also created extra hours for the directors and back office volunteers, as they worked on how to operate the Canal Centre, boat trips and working parties safely.

Their efforts meant the Canal Centre operated and boat cruises were able to run from August through to the end of December, bringing in much needed funds.

Chairman Sally Schupke said: “The thousands of hours put in by our loyal volunteers is truly inspiring. Without them we wouldn’t be able to achieve the successes we continue to make.

“The past year has been challenging for so many, and our volunteers have stepped up and carried on, and I thank them for that.”

The Wey & Arun Canal Trust was formed in 1973 with the aim of restoring the 23-mile navigable link between the Rivers Wey and Arun, recreating the direct water link between London and the south coast.

So far 22 bridges and two aqueducts have been reconstructed, 11 locks restored and a new one built, several culverts rebuilt and many miles of canal bed cleared and dredged.

Anyone who wants to volunteer for the trust can email [email protected]