The Latton Bugle - July 2024
In July’s Latton Bugle, Doug Small from the Latton Basin project gave a round-up of the latest news.
Next Meeting
Latton Basin’s next monthly meeting is on Wednesday 21st August at 10.00am. All visitors welcome.
Work Parties
Volunteers are most welcome to join Vince Osgood and his team at their regular Wednesday work parties. Contact vince.osgood@lattonbasin.info for details.
New Purchases
The group has purchased their new Hyundai battery powered equipment with the donation received from Wayland Estates.
Initial impressions of the new tools are very good!
Back by Popular Demand
Following their successful appearance at Cricklade WI, the group has been invited to give a talk to the Cricklade Historical Society on Wednesday 18th September at the Town Hall Annexe.
Melksham Food & River Festival
Not long to go! Always a great event and this year’s festival is on Saturday 31st August and Sunday 1st September. It’s organised by the festival committee, with support from the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust and the Wiltshire Youth Canoe Club. Doug is appealing for help setting up on Friday 30th August or over the weekend. Please email doug.small@lattonbasin.info Entry is free. See www.melkshamfoodandriverfestival.co.uk for more information.
The basin – Then and Now
See the Latton Basin in about 1947 (below left) and 77 years later in 2024 (below right).
Hemlock
The group was instructed by Wiltshire Council to remove the barrier they had placed round the hemlock. This they have now done. The council advised that hemlock, although prolific, is OK as long as it’s not cut or disturbed. Doug suggests that people do not touch the plant.
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
Lease Fund Appeal
Negotiations with the landowners involve substantial legal fees. If anyone would like to contribute to the Lease Fund Appeal, donations would be welcome to Latton Basin Restoration, 03856745, 30-95-36.
Book Sales
Doug runs an online bookshop where you can buy a number of books about the Wilts & Berks Canal, some of which are written by Doug himself. For more details, see www.latton-basin.site/Books