The extra funding comes as the restorers of Wappenshall Wharf, Shrewsbury and Newport Canals Trust (SNCT), prepare the final steps before putting the East Basin back into water after almost 60 years.
Wappenshall wharf dates back to the late 1830s. Wappenshall Junction became an important and busy interchange between the Shrewsbury Canal and the Newport Branch of the Birmingham & Liverpool Junction Canal. This is now known as a part of the Shropshire Union.
Michael Haig, Chairman of the Shrewsbury District and North Wales Branch of IWA said: “We’re pleased to be adding to our previous donation of £3,000 in 2019, especially considering what a challenging year it has been for our volunteer fundraisers. Virtually all our activities had to be suspended in the spring and summer. Fortunately the seasonal charity shop at St Mary’s Church in Shrewsbury is set to open on October 23rd and we’re looking forward to having our regular presence there.”
Bernie Jones, Chairman of SNCT said: “2020 has clearly been a difficult year for the Project Team, and we have had to change our working practices significantly for the restoration volunteers to comply with coronavirus restrictions. This grant is most welcome as it should enable us to complete the rewatering of the basin at Wappenshall Wharf by the end of the year.”
Branch Fundraising
In normal years the local IWA branch raises funds through the sale of calendars, cards and other merchandise at canalside events and locations throughout the region, but these were all cancelled in 2020 and the future next year remains unclear. However, canal well-wishers can still support the work of IWA in protecting and restoring Britain’s 7,000 miles of canals and navigable rivers by donating to our charity.
