Read with total disbelief

I READ the report on the clearance of the top end paddle at Woodend Lock with total disbelief, writes Roger Fox.

Obviously I did not see the two tyres and their location but it does read as if an experienced canal man with a sturdy boat-hook could have cleared the paddle many years ago.

Not empowered or equipped

Is it an example of CaRT staff not being empowered or equipped to sort things out for themselves? It is quite possible that the management layers above the man on the ground have no concept of the consequences of failing to sort this out quickly, and it was much easier to close the paddle and ignore the negative publicity on narrowboatworld.

I hope that there are many shouts of jubilation at the clearance and much discomfort at the CaRT offices.