Two Canal Events bathed in September Sunshine

September 29, 2015 No comments

In the past 10 days in my “local ” vicinity there have been two splendid canal side events.

On Saturday 19th & Sunday 20th September the Lichfield & Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust and Lichfield Cruising Club jointly held their biannual Heritage Gathering at the junction of the Lichfield and Coventry canals at Huddlesford near Lichfield. It was blessed with sunny, warm weather like the 2013 event. There were Historic Boats, visiting Private Boats, Floating Traders, various Stalls and supporting displays of Classic Vehicles and Field Events. Very popular was the variety of music entertainment from 11am to 5pm watched by an enthusiastic crowd.

The towpaths on the BCN Canal near Brindley Place in Birmingham were the scene of a floating market from 25th to 27th September, the third year of the event. Twelve boats selling both canalware and crafts benefited from an extra 50,000 visitors to the city. This massive influx was created by Birmingham Weekender festival of street events of arts, food, music and the opening of the massive £540m Grand Central shopping centre and John Lewis store above the revamped New Street train station. Some traders exhibited for the third year whilst some were newcomers. Business for the boat people was reported as outstanding helped by the warm Indian Summer weather. Anyone who regularly attends floating markets will no doubt recognise some of the traders.

Below are two galleries of photos I took at the events which I hope will convey the enjoyment that comes with canal events..