Thank yous
Doug began with a couple of thank yous. First, to the Wayland Estates Charity for their continued support with a grant that will enable the purchase of battery-powered equipment to maintain the hedges.
Crapper & Sons Landfill Ltd received the second thank you, for their latest Landfill Communities Fund (LCF) donation that will allow continued renovation of the aqueduct.
Cricklade Town Festival
Their Cricklade volunteers ran a successful stand at the town’s festival and even arranged for good weather! They saw plenty of visitors and a lot of interest – and maybe even a few new volunteers. Jan did a roaring trade with her plant sales and she has donated all the proceeds.
Next outing is the Melksham Food & River Festival on Saturday 31st August and Sunday 1st September.
Composting
As part of the group’s efforts to improve the site, a composting area has been built to take all the cuttings, which, when composted, will be used to improve the soil around the Basin.
The poisonous plant hemlock has been found growing in a hedge. The group has informed Wiltshire Council and as a precaution, taped off the area and indicated a short diversion. (Disclaimer: this information was received from the Latton Basin Project, but we, the WBCT, have no connection to the towpath closure).
Wednesday Work Parties
Vince Osgood, work site manager, and his team have been working on the wing walls of the lock. Anyone fancy making a lock gate for them? Volunteers are most welcome to join Vince and co at their regular Wednesday work parties. Contact vince.osgood@lattonbasin.info for details.
Fresh Air & Fun
The group is an effective band of volunteers dedicated to preserving a small piece of canal history, while also improving the towpath and canal bed for all to enjoy.
Aqueduct repairs are a priority, but they also need a team to manage hedgerows on either side of the canal. It’s a very worthwhile project to get involved in. Please contact Doug if you are interested at doug.small@lattonbasin.info
Funding
The group are always on the look-out for more funding opportunities. As the project progresses, so will spending. If you know of any potential sources, please contact Doug.
Next Meeting
Wednesday 17th July