Montgomery Canal work recognised

THE work over the past 10 years of a member of the Shropshire Union Canal Society has been recognised by the Inland Waterways Association.

It has made an award to Mike Friend, who for the past 10 years has been Montgomery Canal Project Officer, leading the  work parties in the restoration of the Montgomery Canal.

Tetlow Cup

The award, the Tetlow Cup, was presented at the Society's work party in front of a party of volunteers of the Shropshire Union Canal Society who had been spending the morning grading and lining the canal at Redwith Bridge.

The trophy is awarded to someone other than a member of the Inland Waterways Association who has made a major contribution to the waterways over a period of time.

Party organiser

In presenting the award Alan Platt, Chairman of the North West and North Wales Region and a Deputy National Chairman of the Inland Waterways Association referred to Mike Friend's 10 years as work party organiser for Shropshire Union Canal Society, being largely responsible for its work in the restoration of the Montgomery, as well as maintaining the profile of the canal especially during the current period when outside funds are so hard to come by.

This was echoed by Pat Wilson, Chairman of Shropshire Union Canal Society and by Michael Limbrey of the Montgomery Waterway Restoration Trust. Mike in his turn paid tribute to the volunteers themselves and especially to Jan, his wife, for her patience and support.