Spring 2011 - Bude Canal

THE TUB BOAT
Newsletter of the Bude Canal & Harbour Society
No. 55
Spring 2011
THE TUB BOAT
Newsletter of the Bude Canal & Harbour Society
Forthcoming Events:
Sunday 15th May Visit to Pentewan & Ponts Mill organised by the Rolle Canal Society.
Cost £5.00 per person. See booking form enclosed.
Thursday 19th May Social Evening at the Parkhouse Centre at 7.30pm in Room 1.
Saturday 21st May Garden Tea Party at Barn House, Poundstock organised by the Bude
Canal Trust from 2pm to 5pm. Cost £3.50 each.
Sunday 5th June
Bude Motor Classic Event at the Rugby Ground with BCHS stall.
Sunday 26th June Devon Wildlife Trust Reserve day at Dunsdon Nature Reserve. Meet
at 11.00 for guided walk. Limited places. To book ring Fran
McMurray on 01822 613628. Donation of £3 expected.
Saturday 9th July Bude Canal Trust Open Day at Pancrasweek Village Hall.
Saturday 16th July Annual coach trip to Bristol including a boat trip. Cost £21 each.
Saturday 30th July Barbecue at Barton Gate organised by the Bude Canal Trust
Sunday 31st July
Cornish Day at Adventure International organised by Terry Bale to
raise funds for Stratton Hospital. Stallholders welcome.
Sunday 7th Aug
Bude Stratton Heritage Day (formerly Canal Day). BCHS stall and
display panels.
Saturday 20th Aug Bude Carnival with BCHS stall.
Saturday 27th Aug RNLI Weekend with BCHS stall.
Sunday 18th Sept Visit to Kelly Mine & Bovey Tracey Heritage Centre organised by the
Rolle Canal Society. Cost £5.00 per person.
Contributions for the next edition of the Tub Boat should be sent as an e-mail attachment
to info@bude-canal.co.uk or copied onto a USB memory stick or CD and sent to
Mike Moore (Tel: 01288 361878) to reach him by 25th June 2011.
Trustees:
Chairman
Vice-Chairman
Secretary
Treasurer
Events Secretary
Minuting Secretary
Other trustees
Membership Secretary
The Tub Boat Editor
Audrey Wheatley
David Phillips
Vacant
Chris Jewell
Betty Moore
Jill White
Bryan Dudley Stamp, Anne Longley
Ralph Daniel,
Pam Daniel
Mike Moore (non-trustee)
Vacant
The views expressed by the contributors to this newsletter are not necessarily those
of the Bude Canal & Harbour Society which does not accept responsibility for them.
Corporate Member of
Supported by
THE TUB BOAT
Newsletter of the Bude Canal & Harbour Society
No. 55
Spring 2011
CONTENTS
Creaks from the Chair. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Treasurer’s Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Membership Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
The Tub Boat Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Bude Canal Trust Partnership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Bude Valley Management Advisory Group. . . . . . . . . . . 5
TRAC Project. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Tenth AGM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Events Reports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Forthcoming Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Obituaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Woodland Tea Rooms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Letters Page . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Cover: The gig “Speculation emerging from Whalesborough Lock on the return trip to Bude
during the Navigation Event on 26th March.
Photo: Mike Moore
1
Creaks From The Chair
Readers have no doubt noticed that our magazine has undergone a change. For some
time now we have been concerned at the escalating costs of producing this small but
important booklet and have been looking around for alternative printers since it is the
printing which costs the money. All other bits of the finished article are produced 'in
house' as it were. A printer has been found, the finished article is what you see before
you and we shall be interested in opinions and/or comments if readers feel strongly
about anything. Do let us know.
We are experiencing a rare and lovely start to spring; my garden is a riot of daffodils and
the roadsides and banks everywhere are lined with them and also clumps of my
favourite flower of all, the primrose. In this part of the world the wild daffs are called Lent
lilies or so my West Country mother always told us.
On the canal the ducks have paired up, and as is common these days, there is the usual
preponderance of drakes so that mating for the females is more a fight for survival than
the natural continuation of the species. I have not yet seen a drowned duck thank
goodness; nor have I seen my first swallow though that cannot be too far away now. Our
otters are elusive as yet but the birds are nest -building with enthusiasm and singing
more and more each day.
You can imagine then, what a pleasant occasion our first event on and around the canal
was. The brain child of an old member and friend of the society, Jean Hall of Exeter, it
took the form of a mass navigation from bottom to top of the barge canal and back, using
both inland locks there and back. Canoes, kayaks and Bude's two gigs took part plus the
odd electric boat from up country and lots of helpers and walkers. There will be an
account of this elsewhere in the magazine; a most satisfying occasion as you will read.
In my address at the recent AGM in February I stressed unreservedly the influence on
our present vibrant society of the early years, when all was struggle and not a little strife
to be overcome, in order to establish an identity and integrity all our own in the face of
the inevitable hostility and derision that all would-be pioneers experience. Many of the
old friends from these years continue to take an active interest in the society's doings as
this first event of the season has shown.
Our secretary of twelve years Bryan Stamp has resigned from the post though not from
the committee. He also remains a trustee. We are sorry to lose his services but will be
glad for his continued involvement in society affairs. We thank him for his work for the
society and hope for a year or two more! Hence we need a new secretary which we may
or may not, be able to recruit from the committee. What is really needed, however, is
new YOUNGER blood on the committee. Please search your soul and think if you can
find the time and interest to offer to this society. You won't find it difficult to be younger
and will be hugely welcome.
STOP PRESS.
th
Today, 5 April, I saw my first swallow along the canal in a small group of about six or so possibly all martins but looking right. Spring is well sprung and summer round a corner
or two.
Audrey Wheatley
2
Treasurer's Report - AGM
The balances of the accounts as at 31 December 2010 were as follows:
£
Account 1
2,350.02
Account 2 Educational Fund
612.03
Account 3 Project Fund
2,426.98
Account 4 Canal Day
221.29
Account 5 Archive Project
121.37
The accounts are all stable and the end of year balance for Account 1 is £417.94 more
than 2009. This is a good result and comes from extra activity by the Society and the
support from the members by continuing membership and donations. This support is
much appreciated by the Trustees
Account 2
This will be used to fund the exhibition at Bude from 2nd to 17th April 2011.
Account 3
Of the £2,426.98 there are two sums which are marked for specific projects.
1. £1000 towards a project to replace Rodds Bridge with a new bridge to allow
navigation.
2. £500 towards the cost of re-roofing the Barge Work Shop at Helebridge where
the Tub Boat is stored.
Account 4
From 2011, BCHS will no longer receive any financial support from Cornwall Council
towards the canal element of Bude-Stratton Heritage Day in August. This will have
an effect on the society's involvement in the event.
Account 5
During 2010, BCHS had a project to digitalise some of its slides and to acquire digital
equipment. This was funded by a grant from Cornwall Community Foundation of
£1,000, Bude Stratton Town Council of £100, a community grant and finally a
generous donation of £150 from a local member, the balance being paid for from this
account. The total cost of the project was £1,447.58. BCHS are truly grateful to CCF,
BSTC and our member for the monies provided.
Membership as at 20th February 2011
Total memberships including Life members = 125. Total members including Life
members = 141. Total Life members = 26.
The Treasurer then gave an update on the situation in relation to Higher Wharf.
There is no change. The owners, Cornwall Council, intend to sell the land for commercial
development when: (i) The land prices improve and (ii) The 'sitting tenants' have relocated. There is an estimate of two to three years for this to be achieved, which is
possibly the lower end of expectation. With regards to the provision of a slipway, David
Attwell, the local Cornwall Council Officer has a view that when the land is sold, it should
be possible by using planning procedures and Section 106 agreements with the
prospective developers, to achieve access to the canal. This, as you know, is contrary to
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the stated view of BCHS and many others including Town Council, which strongly feels
the land MUST remain in community use. Neither Cornwall Council nor the now defunct
North Cornwall District Council purchased the land. It was inherited from the previous
council by changes in the local government rearrangement during the last 40 years.
With regards to the replacement of Rodds Bridge to allow navigation, this matter also
faces a bleak future. Cornwall Council has 'no money' for such a project and it is
understood that they will not budget for officer time to pursue funding bids with grant
bodies such as the HLF. It would seem CC expects other bodies to do that. This is a bit of
a cheek when they are the owners of the Bude Canal and inherited the need to complete
the canal project, so that the canal is navigable and can realise its potential.
Finally, the Treasurer thanked the following: Mike Moore for help and assistance, Betty
Moore for her continuing efforts in relation to fund raising events and activities, John
Harris for inspection of the Society's Account and fellow Trustees and members for their
continuing efforts in running the Society and doing the best we can for the Bude Canal.
Any member who would like a copy of the accounts should contact the Treasurer. In due
course the accounts will be put on the society's website.
Chris Jewell
Membership Report
Following my request in the last newsletter, some members have still not renewed their
subscription and it does appear that the renewal rate for 2010/11 is not as good as in
previous years. This, along with a downturn in the recruitment of new members, does
not bode well for our finances for the coming year. The statistics show that we recruited
ten new members in 2009, five in 2010 and none so far in 2011 with the last member
joining in June 2010. If any members have friends or relations who they think may be
interested in joining the society, would they please let them have a Membership
Application Form (The Way Forward) which can be downloaded from our website
www.bude-canal.co.uk or by contacting me on 01288 361878. Your assistance would be
much appreciated.
Mike Moore
The Tub Boat Editor Vacancy
As you will be aware from the last newsletter, Geoff Turney has resigned as editor and we
have not yet been able find a replacement. We are therefore appealing again to our
members for a volunteer to step forward to take on this important role. The only
requirement, other than time and enthusiasm, is to have the necessary computer
equipment to receive contributions as text or Word files via e-mail or memory stick and
assemble them into one complete file to be submitted, along with suitable photographs,
for printing. Assistance will be given initially in setting this up and handing over to the
new editor.
This is a very important function in our society as for many of our members, especially
those who live outside the local area; the newsletter is their only contact with us. As I am
not in a position to continue to act as temporary editor indefinitely, the trustees will have
to decide what action to take to resolve the situation. The appointment of a permanent
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editor is vital to enable us to continue to produce a newsletter which is up to the
standard which you have become accustomed to over the years. Please think very
carefully about this and if you can be of any assistance please contact one of the trustees
or respond by e-mail to info@bude-canal.co.uk . Thank you.
Mike Moore
Bude Canal Trust Partnership
As you will know, the Society is a member of the partnership which comprises of local
authorities and other parties. Since its inception, the monies given by the funding
members have been held in a holding account administered by Torridge District Council.
Following cutback imposed on councils, Torridge District Council cannot budget for the
service it gave to the Partnership. Following various efforts to seek similar
arrangements, BCHS have offered to administer an account in the name of 'Bude Canal
Trust Partnership', to ensure the work of the Partnership with the Bude Canal Trust can
continue.
Chris Jewell
Bude Valley Management Advisory Group
The group met on 7th February 2011 and the main points covered were as follows:
· Cornwall Council is looking at 'partnerships' with other agencies and groups.
The object to seek best value.
The BVMAG will continue for the
foreseeable future.
· Whalesborough Lock - There is a leak
between the top towpath side gate
and the lock structure. This will
require attention, as it is NOT to do
with the gates expanding in the water
BUT a defect in the structure. There
is also a problem with one of the gate
paddles, which has become detached
The leak at Whalesborough Lock
Photo: Mike Moore
from the winding gear.
· Cornwall Council has submitted its bid for the 'Green Flag' award.
The decision will be announced in July 2011 for the 2011/12 awards. The bid
includes the amalgamated management plan for the canal and marshes, to show
better management.
· Licensing - Cornwall Council is formulating the new system, following consultation
with the main users. This will be a more effective system, with prescribed days of
use for some users. It will include an 'on the day' licence with a simple booking
system. The new licences will be effective from October 2011 and will include the
Code of Conduct.
· The group is looking into setting up a 'Friend of the Bude Valley' support group.
The next meeting is on 4th July 2011, including a site visit, starting from 1pm.
Chris Jewell
5
TRAC Project (Tourism and Rural Access in Cornwall)
On 2nd March 2011, a meeting of the TRAC Project Team was held. The main points
discussed were as follows:
1. The Underpass, A39 - Planning permission has been granted. The legal agreement
re the land is basically agreed. Work on this important element should start in the
near future and be completed in June 2011. This is a vital link that will ensure safety
and increased use.
2. Land at East Helscott - The legal agreement re land has not been finally agreed, but
is expected soon. The issue concerning the new bridges on this section is being
reviewed by the EA and is due the end of March. In principle, the EA agree that the
route is possible. The works across this land to Ball Hill should be completed by
Spring 2012.
This will leave the route to Titson to be finally agreed with land owners. The project has
to be finished by December 2013. There is the issue of maintenance to be decided, as it
will NOT be in the remit of Cornwall Council. The name for the trail from Titson to Bude
has yet to be decided, but it seems likely that it will be a compromise and be something
like 'The Ruby Atlantic Trail', to give cohesion to the large project for the South West area.
The 'jewel in the crown' of a multi use trail from Bude to Holsworthy is still to be achieved
and is a MUST to ensure the sustainability of tourism in this area.
Chris Jewell
Tenth Annual General Meeting
Another AGM but a different venue. The Bude Canal & Harbour Society plus 25
members and 5 visitors and guests, including the Mayor Cllr. Peter Moores, met in the
Education Room, Castle Heritage Centre on the 20th February 2011. The Chairman,
Audrey Wheatley, reminded everyone of the Society's origins as the Bude Canal Society
in 1990.
The Secretary, Mr Bryan Dudley Stamp, spoke about Cornwall Council who have taken
over management of the Bude Canal from NCDC. BCHS volunteers have manned the
Barge Workshop at Helebridge on Sunday afternoons, helped to organise Bude Heritage
Day and taken part in Bude Carnival and Lifeboat Day. Committee member, Anne
Longley spoke about the history of the Bude Archives and the meeting ended with a
digital presentation by Chris Jewell and Mike Moore of historical photos of the Bude
Canal.
Jill White
EVENTS REPORTS
Exhibition 'James Green's Canals' from 2nd to 17th April 2011
This exhibition was held in The Gallery at the Castle Heritage Centre, Bude from 2nd to 17th
April and it was open between 10am to 5pm with stewards available on each day to give
advice and information. The event was a joint enterprise for BCHS with Bude Canal Trust
and the Rolle Canal and Northern Devon Waterways Society, who displayed information
etc in relation to their waterway. The exhibition was well attended with 451 visitors who
came to see the wonders that James Green constructed in the 1820's.
Chris Jewell
6
Navigation Event 26th March 2011
On Saturday 26th March 2011, a flotilla of gigboats and canoes gathered in the Lower
Basin of Bude Canal to navigate the canal from the Basin to Helebridge using the inland
locks at Rodds Bridge and Whalesborough. Twenty eight members of the Bude Canoe
Club in a mixture of Canadian Canoes and kayaks and two gigboats (Bedehaven and
Speculation) with the youth members of Bude Pilot Gig Club set off on the trip at about
10.45am. As the day progressed, the weather improved to a fine sunny day. Both the gig
boats and most of the canoes were locked through both of the locks on the outward and
return trips in separate lockings for each group. All of the boats were back at Lower
Basin by 2pm, when the crews received refreshments. Overall, the event was well
received and successful. All the participants received a Certificate to mark this occasion.
The purpose of the event was two fold: (i) To highlight the need for a public slipway for
access to and from the canal and (ii) To make use of the restored inland locks by boats
(other than the contractors barges during the project). This event was the first time that
locks had been used by non-official boats since at least 1922, if not longer.
Finally, BCHS would like to thank Bude Canoe Club, Bude Pilot Gig club and Cornwall
Council Environment Services (East) for their participation and support in this event.
Chris Jewell
Canoes passing under Rodds Bridge showing restricted headroom, in Rodds Bridge Lock
and waiting for gates to be opened to leave Whalesborough Lock.
Photos: Mike Moore
7
The Navigation Event
on 26th March
1 - Gigs rowing back from the Sea Lock.
Photo: Chris Jewell
2 - Gigs Bede Haven & Speculation
leaving Rodds Bridge Lock
1
2
3 - Gig Speculation leaving Whalesborough
Lock
4 - Gig Speculation passing under the A39
at Helebridge with the old A39 bridge
in the background
3
Photos 2, 3 & 4: Mike Moore
4
8
Occasional Lockkeeper
On the Navigation Event on Saturday 26th March, I
took a stroll down to Rodds Bridge lock to find it full
of canoes and the upper gates being closed.
Happening to have my lock windlass with me I
wound up both lower gate paddles and when the
lock emptied I opened one gate while two boys
opened the other. While the canoes were leaving I
closed the gate paddle on my side and when all the
canoes had left closed the gate and watched the lock
fill. When the gigs had entered and the upper gates
closed, I opened the gate paddles and watched the
water level lower. I opened the gate and as the gigs
left closed the gate paddles for the last time.
I had long thought my days of working locks were
well over so I was delighted to find I had worked as
well as ever and wonder if the council would like a
ninety-year old occasional lock-keeper!
Lawrence Wheatley
FORTHCOMING EVENTS
The Society's Tenth Anniversary
On 18th May 2011, it will be the tenth anniversary of the formation and registration of our
Society as a registered charity. Since then, many things have occurred, either directly or
indirectly involving the canal:
· The completion of the Regeneration Project in 2009
· The establishing of the walking routes, giving better access to the inland sections.
· The establishment of a Bude Canal Day, now part of the Bude Stratton Heritage Day.
The Society continues to work where possible in partnership with Cornwall Council and
Bude Stratton Town Council on issues of common interest, as it has done in years past.
To celebrate this anniversary, the Society is planning two events:
1 A members social evening on 19th May at the Parkhouse Centre, Bude
2 A special annual visit to Bristol on 16th July including a 3 hour cruise on the River
Avon and some free time in Bristol. Full details and booking form in this issue.
We hope you can support these events and celebrate what has been achieved and look
forward to the next ten years and the many things that need to be done for the benefit of
the Bude Canal and the local community.
Chris Jewell
Members Social Evening on 19th May
As part of our Tenth Anniversary Celebrations, we are holding a members social evening
in Room 1 at the Parkhouse Centre, Bude starting at 7.30pm on Thursday 19th May.
Although details are still to be finalised, we hope to show a selection of slides and have a
celebration cake. We look forward to seeing many of our members at this special event.
Betty Moore
9
Tenth Anniversary Celebration Coach and Boat Trip on 16th July
This year, as it is our tenth anniversary, for our annual outing we have arranged a special
coach trip to Bristol for a 3 hour boat trip on “The Flower of Bristol” through the Floating
Harbour, then along the canal and River Avon as far as Hanham Lock and back. When we
first arrive at Bristol there will be time to take lunch or explore the area before we board
the boat for our trip. There will also be a short break of one hour after the trip and before
we board the coach for our return journey. A bar will be available on the boat and there
may be a small selection of snacks and refreshments.
The itinery is:8.30am Leave Bude by Coach from the Crescent Car Park allowing for a stop on route
11.30am (approx)Arrive at the car park near the SS Great Britain
1.30pm Board boat at Wapping Wharf near the SS Great Britain
4.30pm Return to Bristol
5.30pm Board coach to leave Bristol for Bude
8.30pm (approx) Arrive at Bude allowing for a stop on route
The total cost for the whole trip including the boat is £21 per person.
If you wish to join us on this trip please complete the enclosed booking form and return it
to us with your remittance by 30th June 2011. Please book early as we need to fill the boat
to make the trip financially viable as we will have to pay for the hire of the whole boat
irrespective of the number of passengers taken. Thank you for your support.
Betty Moore
Bude-Stratton Heritage Day on Sunday 7th August
The planning committee for this annual community event has been made aware that
Terry Bale has been asked to organise a funding raising event on behalf of the Stratton
Hospital League of Friends. This Cornish Day event will take place on Sunday 31st July in
the Adventure International marquee and include Cornish wrestling, a Cornish marching
band; Celtic musicians and choirs; retail stalls; beer tent; cream teas etc.
The planning committee agreed that this charity event will impact on our planned twoday event, the following weekend, therefore Saturday 6th has been cancelled but a oneday event will still take place on Sunday 7th August.
The programme is still be put together but will include classic cars and steam engines;
brass bands; children's entertainers and fairground amusements; Cornish musicians; a
number of stalls relating to canal/water and local history interests; local food producers
and examples of WWII USA military vehicles. The day starts at 11am and goes through
until 5.00pm.
Patricia Wright, Manager, The Castle Heritage Centre, Bude
Bude Canal Trust Events
Garden Tea Party on Saturday 21st May
This garden event will be held on from 2pm to 5pm at The Barn House, Poundstock to
raise funds for The Bude Canal Trust. The Barn House is on the Widemouth Bay to
Millook road. Turn left or straight on at Widemouth Manor Hotel towards Millook then
10
follow the road for ½ mile, past the square house on the left. At the top of the rise, turn
left and The Barn House will be clearly signed. The route will be signposted from the
Widemouth Manor Hotel. Entrance will be £3.50 to include a cream tea. There will also
be a raffle, cake stall, and maybe one or two other stalls.
Devon Wildlife Trust Reserve Day on Sunday 26th June
Devon Wildlife Trust have organised a Reserve Day at Dunsdon Nature Reserve on
Sunday 26th June meeting at 11.00am for a guided walk. Places are limited so please book
by ringing Fran McMurray on 01822 613628. A donation of £3 is expected.
Open Day on Saturday 9th July
Bude Canal Trust Open Day at Pancrasweek Village Hall.
Barbecue on Saturday 30th July
This event, organised on behalf of The Bude Canal Trust will be held at Barton Gate (just
on the Devon side on the Bude to Holsworthy road) from 6pm on Saturday 30th July.
Come and enjoy a social evening and meet members of the Trust over a hotdog, salads
and puddings! Non-alcoholic drinks available or bring your own wine if you prefer. The
cost is £5 per person.
Rolle Canal Society Events
Visit to Pentewan & Ponts Mill
A guided trip to the St Austell area has been arranged by the Rolle Canal Society on
Sunday 15th May 2011 to which our members and friends are invited. We make our own
way to Pentewan in the morning meeting at 10.00am in the village car park for a guided
walk of the harbour conducted by Roger Evans. Following a pub lunch (cost £7.50 if
required) we then travel to Ponts Mill at 2.00pm for a guided walk of the Luxulyan Valley
conducted by John Smith of Cornwall Council. The cost for the visit will be £5.00 per
person. If you are interested in this visit please complete the enclosed booking form and
return to The Membership Secretary, The Rolle Canal & Northern Devon Waterways
Society with your remittance.
Visit to Kelly Mine & Bovey Tracey Heritage Centre
A guided trip to the Bovey Tracey area has been arranged by the Rolle Canal Society on
Sunday 18th September 2011 to which our members and friends are invited. We make
our own way to Kelly Mine (on the A382 between Moretonhampstead and Bovey Tracey)
in the morning for a visit when guides will be available. Vehicles for the mine visit to be
kept to a minimum so please arrange to share vehicles wherever possible. Please wear
old clothes and boots and note that there are no toilet facilities available at the mine.
Following lunch at a venue to be arranged, we then travel to the Bovey Tracey Heritage
Centre which is on the site of the old railway station in Bovey Tracey. The cost for the visit
will be £5.00 per person.
11
The Bude Motor Club Classic Motor Show on Sunday 5th June 2011
Bude Motor Club will be holding its 3rd Classic Motor Show at the Rugby Ground in Bude
on Sunday 5th June 2011. This year the show will again be totally FREE to all entrants and
visitors alike. Entries are invited from all interested parties, including clubs and
individuals. Vehicles (and visitors!!) of all types, age and condition are most welcome!
BCHS will have a stall at this event selling our usual canal books and mugs etc as well as
our bric-a-brac stall including second-hand books.
The show site has full bar and food facilities. Camping for entrants is available at the
venue if required. Instead of sending out entry forms to those who would like to attend
the show with their vehicle, the club have decided to hand out the forms on arrival for
completion on the day. If you wish to attend could you please e-mail the Bude Motor
Club giving details of the vehicle(s) you are showing - but this isn't mandatory.
Once again, any monies raised during the event, by collections, donations and bring and
buy sales etc. will be donated to the club's chosen charity for 2011 which is Shelterbox.
Betty Moore
Bill Young 1919 -2010
Six members of the BCHS committee attended the Memorial Service for Bill Young at St
Andrew's Church, Stratton on Saturday 19th March. The service, which was also well
supported by local members of BHF, was led by Father David Standen and reminiscences
were given by Bill's sons Nigel and Martin with Joan Heard and Barbara Simpson. We
were reminded of Bill's love of Bude and Stratton and his subsequent career as an
author. A fitting tribute to a well-known local character.
Mike Moore
Liz Whitfield
Elizabeth Mary Whitfield, nee Maxwell, was born on
21st June 1936 at Bideford, Devon, where she grew up.
After qualifying as a State Registered Nurse, she trained
to be a midwife, which she practised in the Barnstaple
area. In 1960, she met her husband to be, Ian Whitfield
and in 1962 they married and in the next few years had
their two children. In 1970 they moved to Bude where
they were both able to exercise their love of the
countryside, coast and the heritage of Cornwall. They
joined the Bude Canal Society in its early days in 1990
and remained members through to the present time.
Ian was the inspector of the Society's accounts between 1994 and 2001.
In 2008 Liz contracted cancer and surgery followed however in late 2009 the illness
became a major concern again. Nursing was carried out at home by Ian and his family
and Liz died at home, as she had wanted, on 6th January 2011.
I remember Liz cycling to Summerleaze Beach with Ian on a daily basis - a kind and good
lady. The Society reaffirms its condolences to Ian and family and wishes them peace in
the years ahead.
Chris Jewell
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Miss Joan Rendell, MBE
The funeral of local writer and historian Joan Rendell took place at the Parish Church St
Martin of Tours, Werrington on Tuesday 15th February. Miss Rendell died tragically as a
result of a fire at her home at Tremarsh on 4th May last year, at the age of 89. She had
worked for the Old Cornwall Society for 30 years and had served as Parish Clerk for
Werrington for 63 years as well as writing many books including at least two on the Bude
Canal.
Mike Moore
Woodland Tea Rooms
Following a number of enquiries
about the new building which has
appeared overlooking the new lake
at Whalesborough we can confirm
t h a t i t i s to b e a w i l d l i fe
interpretation centre with tea
rooms/restaurant which will take
over the from the Woodland Tea
Rooms by the end of May. Although
it will be sad to see the old tea
rooms close, they were very
attractive due to their secluded
The new building under construction
position; we wish the new venture
at the end of March Photo: Mike Moore
every success and hope it will be as
popular as the original tea rooms.
Mike Moore
LETTERS PAGE
E-mail from Paul Niblett of Stoke-on-Trent dated 23rd January 2011
Hello
My wife Kathy and I have belonged to
the Society for some years now and
have enjoyed various visits to the
Canal, including a special event with
you in October 2008 when we were
part of an IWPS weekend in Devon.
Recently, I had reason to inspect my
1920 copy of The Dunlop Book, a
large tome designed to provide
motorists with information about
t o w n s a n d ga ra g e fa c i l i t i es
A copy of the Bude page in the Dunlop Book
throughout the British Isles.
showing a drawing of Nanny Moores Bridge
The entry for Bude is attached with its fine image too! The artist's name, which appears
on the majority of the sketches in the book, is CG Harper.
Best wishes, Paul Niblett.
13
THE TUB BOAT
Newsletter of the Bude Canal & Harbour Society
To Bideford
A39
Tamar Lake
Kilkhampton
Virworthy Wharf
B3254
Dexbeer
Puckland
To Bideford
BUDE
Sea Lock
A388
Burmsdon
Stratton
Red
Post
Chilsworthy
Blagdonmoor
Wharf
Vealand
Stanbury
Wharf
Hobbacott
Helebridge
HOLSWORTHY
Marhamchurch
Merrifield
Widemouth
Bay
River Tamar
Whitstone
A39
North Tamerton
To Wadebridge
A388
Boyton
Werrington
Bude Canal as built
Rivers
Inclined Planes
B3254
Druxton
Wharf
LAUNCESTON
Published by BUDE CANAL & HARBOUR SOCIETY
Enquiries to the Hon. Treasurer (Tel 01288 352298)
4A The Crescent, Bude, Cornwall EX23 8LE
www.bude-canal.co.uk · info@bude-canal.co.uk
Registered Charity Number 1086646