End of season thoughts

THE boating season is now drawing to a close for the majority of the readers of narrowboatworld, and as a general observation, from my standpoint alongside the Staffs & Worcs. Canal, it has been a pretty good one, writes Orph Mable.

Contrary to the usual moans that the number of people out on the waterway is in rapid decline (for the previous three years I would have to agree), I have, this year, witnessed an increase in the number of boats actually travelling the system.

Increase in cruisers

Both Phil and Dave (the hairy engineers) agree that we have noticed an increase in the number of fibreglass cruisers in particular. Last year, you could count the number on two hands for the whole year. This season there have been many more! Looking at my records, the number of boats (steel and fibreglass) calling in for pump-outs and diesel is up on last year by over 10%. A very good sign.

An interesting observation, that does not involve narrowboats but does reflect that people are again looking towards the canals for their leisure activities, has been the huge increase in youngsters getting involved in the canoe club (Wolverhampton Canoe Club) directly opposite the boatyard. Not an iPad, mobile phone or computer in sight!

Decreasing facilities

On the down side of this is the decreasing number of facilities available on the canal between us at the junctions with the Shroppie and BCN towards Stourport. We have seen Limekiln Chandlery (Compton) re-locate to Stourport Basin last October which has caught out a few leaving the BCN at Aldersley Junction and heading South. For those planning a trip next year, please annotate your guide books.

Although the weather has been wet for the last 10 days or so, it has been mild, which has encouraged a more gradual tapering off of boating activity, which must be a good sign for those remaining waterside establishments like us. Additionally, I have noticed that there has been a very slight increase in boat-owners and consortia prepared to spend a bit more on boat maintenance and improvements which could indicate a little more cash around.

All in all, I am getting a warmer feeling for next ‘season' and these small improvements in outlook may help others to feel inclined to get involved in waterside activities.