All rather spoilt

WHEN Birmingham Live published the Canal & River Trust report of an increase in towpath use, Richard Parry took advantage, that was however rather spoilt.

He proclaimed:

"Our canals provide, for many people, a vital green/blue route on their doorstep, and the picture across our network is that many are switching to spend time on less-used canals in residential areas, and away from tourist hotspots and the busier city-centre locations.

"I particularly urge cyclists to only use the towpath for relaxed and responsible cycling during this pandemic.  Our canals can be a lifeline for people but only if we use them responsibly."

Pushed into the canal

But then Birmingham Live inserted a video from Sophie Watson who spoke out about being pushed into the canal by thugs, that rather spoilt it all, especially as there had been numerous reports of such instances around Birmingham.  The full report.

But many boaters have complained of allowing the narrow towpaths to remain open during the pandemic, where the then two metres distancing could very often not possibly be achieved.  The rather famous photograph below taken at the height of the pandemic clearly shows the dangers.