Jubilee flotilla invite for Shropshire narrow boat trust

Charity bosses today spoke of their delight after one of their narrow boats was chosen to fly the flag for Shropshire during the major event to mark the Queen's Diamond Jubilee.

But officials at the Lyneal Trust today revealed they have still not decided which of their boats – Shropshire Lad or Shropshire Lass –should be given the honour of sailing along the River Thames.

The charity, based in Lyneal, near Ellesmere, has been chosen to take part in one of the largest flotillas ever assembled on the River Thames on June 3.

More than 1,000 boats are expected to take to the water, led by the Royal Barge baring the Queen, Duke of Edinburgh and other senior royals.

Lyneal Trust, which currently has the boats moored on the Llangollen Canal, provides holidays and canal boat trips for people with disabilities and their families.

The boat which takes part will be crewed by disabled civilians representing the charity and Army personnel who have been injured in the service of their country.

Anne Wignall, trustee of the charity, said: "We had to fill out an application form to be part of the event and when we found out the news that we had been successful we were delighted.

"The boat can hold up to about 14 people and we will do our best to do our bit for Shropshire on the day.

"We also hope it will promote the charity and get people to use the boats for holidays."

Both boats will make the 220-mile two-week journey to London, navigating through 190 canal locks along the way.

The charity will be part of the 1,000-strong flotilla and up to a million people are expected to line the route to witness the historic event.

Broadcast pictures will be shown live around the world as the flotilla passes down the river.

The Lyneal Trust has been awarded the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service and has been providing cottage and narrow boat holidays for families and groups at competitive rates for over 25 years.

The two vessels have disabled-friendly interiors and hydraulic steering that enables everyone, including wheelchair users, to take part in the running of the boats.