Baswich-based River Canal Rescue (RCR) is giving the Stafford Riverway Link (SRL) a boost by hosting a £100 cash prize draw on its website. RCR is keen to raise awareness of SRL’s work to re-connect the one and a half mile waterway link between the river Sow and Staffordshire & Worcestershire Canal, enabling boats to enter the centre of Stafford.
To enter the draw, click on the Stafford Riverway Latest News link on River Canal Rescue’s website, answer a question about the work of the SRL and input some contact details. The winning entrant will be selected on 10 September.
The key focus for the SRL is Baswich basin, where volunteers are uncovering the old lock house foundations and reconstructing an aqueduct and lock to link the two waterways. After that, they’ll be making the river Sow navigable.
With its head office close to the basin, RCR is a staunch supporter of the SRL, assisting with manpower, equipment supply and storage, administration, marketing and fund-raising. RCR also paid for a finger post to be installed, pointing out where the new Stafford link will be.
In May this year, the SRL secured £735 from the 2020 Staffordshire EnviroGrant Fund which will be used by volunteer working parties to protect the natural habitat and enhance the appearance of the basin area. And over the next two to three years, new moorings, a new bridge and landscaping is on the agenda.
RCR managing director, Stephanie Horton, comments: “Once completed, the link and its moorings will bring huge benefits to Stafford; the area will be regenerated and boaters will be able to cruise into the centre of town and use its facilities.
“But this project does take time and money, which is why I’m calling for people to not only enter the draw, but find out more about the SRL’s work and either sign up as a member, join the volunteer parties, help with fundraising or contribute some cash.”
To find out more about the Stafford Riverway link visit www.stafford-riverway-link.co.uk
