Grand Western Canal fundraisers not giving up cash fight (From This is The West Country)

Grand Western Canal fundraisers not giving up cash fight

7:00am Saturday 16th March 2013 in Devon By Mid Devon Star Reporter

FUNDRAISERS who helped convince council bosses to repair a collapsed Mid Devon canal say they will not stop fighting for cash to secure its future.

The Friends of Grand Western Canal have already arranged a fundraising Half Way Walk on April 13 to help pay for the long-term maintenance of the canal.

Devon County Council has announced a £3million refurbishment of the canal, which collapsed during heavy rains in November last year.

Friends' chairman Robert Hodgson told The Star: “Dredging the waterway to ensure water flows freely and boats can access the length of the canal has been an issue for a long time.

“Dredging requires equipment that is expensive and not always available at the right time to be brought to Mid Devon.

“We have set ourselves a target to increase the Rescue Fund to £20,000, with which we will buy silt barges and a small tug that can live permanently on the Grand Western for use whenever needed.

“These craft will have a host of other maintenance uses as well and we are sure that all who have contributed to the fund will agree that this is an appropriate use for their hard-earned donations."

Anyone interested in taking part in the walk should contact Mr Hodgson on 01884-821239 or 0771638441.

For more information see www.FriendsGrandWesternCanal.org.uk and to donate visit www.justgiving.com/gwcal.