Donk to the rescue
GRANTHAM Canal Society volunteers were in for a treat when Donk, the Belgian draught horse, arrived to help.
This was to remove logs from Lock 13, with Jonathan Booty, from Park Farm Horse Logging, signing up to volunteer with the society when he spotted a unique opportunity to get involved, remarking:
Warm welcome
"After a warm welcome at the Woolsthorpe Depot, I decided to take a walk down to see the preparation work at Lock 13.
"I spoke to Tony Osbond, General Manager, and offered the assistance of a draught horse to remove felled trees. The use of draught horses has a much lower impact on the natural environment than modern forestry techniques."
The Grantham Canal Society were very keen to work on the canal using the same methods as when it was originally built, and Donk now has many admirers amongst the volunters.
Very impressed
With Mark Poyser member and volunteer Colin Bryan who volunteered alongside Donk on the day very impressed by how easy Donk made it look. agreeing:
"The old ways are quite often the best. What an amazing animal. ‘We can’t wait to have him join us again.
"He’s a solid worker and certainly made our job easier!."
Donk, ably assisted by Pete Woodman, made light work of clearing the logs and Lock 13 is now ready for the next phase of renovation. Volunteer workparties will be required five days a week during the next stage, so if you would like to find out more, email: