Email: Dallow stoppage caused by ill-use

FIRSTLY I would like to say I'm no big fan of some things CaRT are doing but I think it's very unfair to blame the stoppages on lack of maintenance, writes Peter Orme.

I have been a maintenance engineer for over 40 years, so I do know what I'm talking about. Most of the breakdowns are caused by stupid or inexperienced people. There is no maintenance in the world that have prevented the recent gate failure at Dallow Lock.

The cast iron anchor plate that holds the gate collar has a clean break not caused by wear and tear. The Trent & Mersey is a very busy canal with many large marinas close by and Dallow is the first narrow lock many hirers and dayboat users encounter.

Many simply haven't got a clue.

I moor on a linear mooring close by and regularly see boats going past at warp speed cannoning from one bank to the other. What chance has 18th century technology got against 21st century idiots.

The team that repaired Dallow did a great job and should be congratulated.

Peter Orme, Nb Flying Eagle