The IWA’s 66th annual general meeting at the Jubilee Conference Centre, Nottingham, welcomed more than 100 attendees in person and online – and also celebrated waterways excellence through the presentation of awards. IWA’s Amy Tillson reports…
NATIONAL chair Mike Wills opened the event, followed by campaigns and public affairs director Charlie Norman outlining campaigning priorities heading into 2026. The focus will be on addressing the declining state of parts of the inland waterways network while highlighting new opportunities.
The audience then heard updates from the IWA’s Freight and Sustainable Boating groups, which praised the advocacy efforts of Fund Britain’s Waterways.
Hannah Rigley and Paul Thomas, from the South Wales Region, reported on the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal campaign. Following unprecedented water restrictions this summer, the IWA worked with the CRT, local communities, and the media to mitigate risks to waterways, businesses and ecosystems.
Meanwhile, members approved the minutes of the 2024 AGM, received an update on financial statements, and confirmed the reappointments of trustees Mike Wills and Dave Chapman for further three-year terms.
The AGM also hosted the presentation of the IWA/Towpath Talk Sustainable Boating Awards and IWA National Awards. The winners were:
- Non-Commercial Award: Fountainbridge Canalside Community Trust – for pioneering strategies to convert boats to electric drive.
- Commercial Award: Lynch Motors – for developing an affordable system to retrofit diesel boats with electric propulsion.
- National awards: Richard Bird Medals – Nigel Hardacre, Nick Parker, Andrew Phasey, Jeanne and Derek Smith and Verna Smith; Christopher Power Prize – Helen Watson-Moriarty; Branch Achievement Award – IWA Leicestershire Branch; and Cyril Styring Trophy – Helen Whitehouse.
“These individuals and groups exemplify the dedication, innovation, and passion that keep our waterways alive,” said Mr Wills.
Following the formal proceedings, presentations were delivered on sustainable boating practices, water management, and restoration efforts. Highlights included updates on HVO fuel, grey water recycling initiatives, and the achievements of IWA’s Waterway Recovery Group during Canal Camps. Attendees also enjoyed an afternoon visit to the restored Canal Cottages at Draycott, hosted by the Derby & Sandiacre Canal Trust, and the Beggarlee Extension restoration site, organised by the Friends of the Cromford Canal.
