WRG on the Chelmer & Blackwater

THE Waterway Recovery Group volunteers of the IWA are carrying out towpath improvement works on the Chelmer & Blackwater Navigation.

A group of around 15 volunteers from all over the country, came to work on a 550 yards stretch of the Chelmer & Blackwater Navigation at Heybridge.

Resurfacing

The intention was to clear overgrown brambles and branches to open up and widen the available tow path to allow it to dry ahead of the local council resurfacing it. Work was also carried out to remove overhanging branches from the off-side of the navigation that were obstructing passing boats.

The volunteers, some of whom were attending as part of their gold Duke of Edinburgh Award, received training in the safe use of tools, including petrol-powered brush cutters, and completed the task in good time to the appreciation of passing tow path users.

Canal Camps

WRG have another 22 week long working 'Canal Camps' planned for 2013, and are a great experience for anyone who loves being outdoors and enjoys meeting people from different backgrounds and of different ages from 18 upwards. They offer volunteers a chance to learn new skills such as bricklaying; stone walling; machine operation and restoration techniques!

For more details call 01494 783 453 ext 604.