Ferry back in business

THE chain ferry across the Avon at Stratford is back in business after its much needed overhaul.

It was way back in 1937 that the original ferry was launched, and it is the same person who first cut the ribbon to originally launch the ferry, Simon Reynolds, who relaunched it this week.

He was then a four years old boy, living in the area, but came down from North Yorkshire to do it all again 73 years later.

Cannot take avoiding action

The ferry, as its name suggests, is pulled across by chain, and boaters using the river have always been on the look-out for it crossing across their paths, as of course it cannot take any avoiding action.

Stratford District Council chairman Councillor Gillian Roache  related:

"We're here to celebrate the relaunch of the ferry Malvolio which has been enjoyed by residents and visitors for over 70 years. It gives us the chance to celebrate another part of Stratford's heritage being saved for future generations."

The boat was relaunched using a chocolate champagne bottle to  avoid the threat to wildlife of glass in the river and on the banks.