Hundreds have fun at Whitchurch boat rally

Hundreds of visitors flocked to Whitchurch for the town's annual boat rally at the weekend.

Colourful and decorated narrow boats were on display as visitors made their way to the Whitchurch arm of the canal for the festivities.

The event, which has been held annually since 1994, sees decorated narrow boats line the canal at Chemistry. It celebrates Whitchurch's rich canal heritage and attracts crowds of enthusiasts every year.

Organisers said about 18 boats appeared including trading boats selling cheese, cakes, honey, sausages and other produce.

Visitors also got to see the last remaining Shropshire Union Canal wooden flyboat, Saturn.

Music was provided by ceilidh band, Jigsmith, and visitors also got to meet Shetland ponies. A fun dog show was also held yesterday and was judged by Andy Nelson, of Leonard Brothers Veterinary Practice.

Lindsay Green, one of the organisers, said the event was held in support of the Whitchurch Waterway Trust.

She said: "Overall it was a very successful event.

"Saturday was a bit grim, but Sunday was a much better day which was good for the dog show and we had a few more entries than last year.

"We didn't make as much money as we normally do. A lot of people were looking, but didn't seem to be buying.

"Maybe that's because of the way things are at the moment.

"There were about 18 boats and the arm of the canal was full. I would say we had hundreds of visitors come to the event over the two days."

The Whitchurch Waterways Trust is dedicated to promoting the regeneration and rebuilding of the Whitchurch arm of the Llangollen Canal.

For more details e-mail wwtrust@tiscali.co.uk or visit http://www.whitchurchwaterway.org.uk/