What will they find this time?

THE 'Open Week-end' at Banbury Lock in the town sees the first of the lock viewing season as Canal & River Trust shows off its lock repairs throughout the winter, but what will be found when it is emptied?

It was only two years ago that the lock was last repaired, and when drained a hoard of ten mobile phones, money and even a pair of handcuffs were found on a ledge below the water level.

New gates

During the week-end of the 18th and 19th of November it is to have new gates, with the public allowed to descend into the lock to inspect the work with staff on hand to explain exactly how it works and the way the old gates are removed and new ones installed. It will be interesting to see what will be discovered this time.

Also at this week-end, Tooley's Boatyard, regarded as the oldest dry dock in the country, will be open to the public, with demonstrations of the sort of work that is undertaken. To make it a 'day out', Banbury Museum will also be open, a short walk away.

First of 10

The open week-end at Banbury Lock will be the first of 10 scheduled for this winter, to acquaint people with the workings of the waterways. Visitors wishing to descend into the locks are advised to wear sensible shoes, as they will be somewhat grubby.