Charity boat in the balance

Published: Thursday, 01 April 2010

THE future of the South West Herts Narrowboat Project Dick's Folly is in doubt owing to requiring expensive repairs.

The 23 years old narrowboat is used to give day and evening trips on the Grand Union Canal at Abbots Langley to charity organisations such as special needs people, Alan Tilbury reports.

Sewage overflowed

The plumbing failed during February  in the frost and the sewage tank overflowed causing the pine interior to be stripped off owing to the damage, and £50,000 is needed to upgrade the interior and the plumbing.

The organisation, that is run by volunteers also needs a further £50,000 to spend on the mooring which needs underpinning as water has started to erode the wooden structure.

Entirely by volunteers

Chairman Ray Cutler, explained:

"The project is entirely run by volunteers—we maintain, clean and prepare the boat for users, look after the base, crew as necessary and offer training. As we give all our time for free, we are able to let community groups use the boat in return for a donation to cover running costs.

"Unfortunately, as the boat is getting old it has started to fall into disrepair. The sewage tank overflowed, which was rather messy, and ruined the interior. We've ripped out the inside of the boat, but now we can't afford to refit it.

"We've managed to raise about £10,000 and have been applying for grants where and when we can, but we're considerably off our target. We're all happy to muck in and do the work, we just can't afford the materials needed, and while the boat is left like this, we can't offer community groups the chance to experience life on a narrowboat."

To help raise money for Dick's Folly email:

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call Pete James 07905 307107.