Staffs & Worcs open again

THE stoppage at Debdale Lock on the Staffs & Worcs caused by the deteriorating condition of a gate (Staffs & Worcs closed) has now been lifted after work has been completed.

Graham Booth tells us that he took a look on Tuesday morning when Canal & River Trust people were setting up, with the person in charge telling him that the reason they were there was to get the paddle working.

Gate out of shape

Apparently the reason it had failed was that the gate had got out of shape. The only way they could cure this and get the paddle working again was to brace the gate, with Graham adding:

"I was passing again this evening (Thursday) and found that all the barriers, work boat, vans and workmen had gone. The 'BW Aware' tape had also gone and the whole lock appeared to be open for business again. The lock was empty but I could see no sign of any bracing. Perhaps it is all below the waterline.

"Anyway, hopefully the paddle will be easier to work and there won't be any delays this season."