FAMILY, friends and volunteers gathered to honour Norman Cornwell, a canal champion whose legacy continues to shape the Erewash waterways.
ABOUT 60 people met at Langley Mill, Derbyshire, for a ceremony commemorating the life of the late chairman of the Erewash Canal Preservation & Development Association.
A respected figure in the local waterways community, Mr Cornwell served in the position for 10 years, playing a central role in promoting and safeguarding the historic waterway.
He died suddenly on May 7, 2025, and a tree was later planted at Langley Mill in his name. It has now been dedicated at the memorial event, at which ECP&DA president Mike Harrison paid tribute to Mr Cornwell’s enthusiasm and commitment.
“Norman enjoyed work parties,” he said. “He wasn’t an engineer but was always interested in why and how things were done. He preferred to do the fetching and carrying of people and materials to keep things ticking over.”
Linny Beaumont, regional director at the Canal & River Trust, said his love of the Erewash Canal and of the waterways more broadly was inspiring. “His passion and depth of knowledge were remarkable, but what set Norman apart was the way those qualities were matched by his determination, his positivity, and above all, his kindness,” she added.
During his time as chairman, Mr Cornwell helped steer the association through important developments, including transitioning to charitable incorporated organisation status, acquiring and restoring a former work boat, and securing the purchase of Sandiacre Lock Cottages with strong community support. Under his leadership, the association was also awarded the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service in 2019, and he attended a garden party at Buckingham Palace to represent the group. In addition to his role as chairman, he also served as mooring officer.
Volunteer leader Steve John’s memories were shared at the event on his behalf: “It was always a pleasure to meet and work with Norman. He made everything feel easy and relaxed, always with a smile, and with endless enthusiasm – not just for the Erewash, but for canals and boating as a whole. Norman had time for everyone, something that isn’t as common as it used to be.”
Mr Cornwell’s wife, Shirley, was the ECP&DA’s membership secretary for 24 years and has recently resigned from the position. She said she was “very proud” of his achievements.
