Email: Should be for all

We have been boating for over 20 years and have paid for full time moorings for the majority of that period.

Having recently retired early on a very tight budget we decided to live our dream and explore as many waterways as possible before we are too old. We gave up our moorings and became a continuous cruiser (apart from the winter months which are booked into a marina).

The lack of moorings and the state of the 15 canals we have so far cruised this year are a real concern. Our first eight weeks cruise ended in a £5,000 bill for damaged stern-gear and new gearbox (not a promising start).

Boating should be for everyone and not just the well off. We need to be more understanding of the wide variety of boaters and encourage all walks of life to enjoy the waterways, especially in these times of austerity.

Stewart and Kerry Downs
Nb Blue Griffin