Boating on the Wilts & Berks

IT MAY be a massive undertaking, but the disused Wilts & Berks canal is slowly coming into use.

For visitors will shortly be able to take boat trips along the restored section of the canal, Wilts & Berks Canal Trust volunteers having rebuilt more than a mile of the former waterway in the countryside between Chippenham and Melksham.

Starting this month

Starting on Saturday 12th May, from 11am to 3pm, the trust will be offering boat trips on the Mary Archard, that will then continue throughout the summer months.

There will also be tea, coffee and cake available, and the boat is wheelchair-friendly having a ramp in its bow.

There is no set charge for the boat trips or the refreshments, but any donations will be gratefully received and will of course help to continue the restoration of the canal.

The aim

The aim of the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust is to restore the waterway from the Kennet & Avon Canal near Melksham to the Thames & Severn Canal near Cricklade.