It’s been a busy summer on the cut, despite water shortages in some areas leading to canal closures.
There seems to be no shortage of interest and involvement in the canal system, however, with families holidaying and volunteers stepping forward to help clear weeds and litter. Various non-boating groups – paddleboarders, ramblers and even Morris dancers – have been discovering what the waterways have to offer.
The hot weather and the increasing number of people opting for ‘staycations’ could lead to a bumper year for British tourism, and the waterways will have surely played their part in creating a mellow mood of relaxation and enjoyment as the summer unfolded.
As the days begin to shorten, your September Towpath Talk is now available in chandleries and other outlets to keep that summer vibe going! It contains news, views and reviews of all that’s best about being on the water. Editor Janet Richardson has been making the most of the summer sunshine to meet boaters and find hidden gems such as Well Creek, a navigable link between the River Great Ouse and the inland waterway network. She’s also been on a journey along the Kennet & Avon Canal with single-handed boater Helen Hutt, whose hospitality and knowledge provided Janet with memories to last, long after summer’s end.
Swans and hedgehogs also feature in the latest issue, with news from the annual ‘swan upping’ event on the River Thames – revealing the swan population is doing rather well – and tips on helping the declining hedgehog population prepare for their hibernation with some suitable food.
On the subject of all things edible, there are suggestions for places to eat, and a delicious dish to create on board provided by Anna Pettigrew, resident recipe supremo for Towpath Talk’s sister publication, Kitchen Garden magazine.
Forthcoming events are listed across four information-packed pages, and our regular contributors always have something fresh and thought provoking to say… not least boat horse Cracker!
Finally, if you’re in the market for another (or even your first) boat, searching for a new marina, on the lookout for accessories, spare and repairs or simply some fresh furnishings, make sure you take a good look at our many pages of advertising! Towpath Talk is always full of great ideas for places to go, things to do, events to attend and ways to increase your boating enjoyment.
You can keep up to date with the latest news from your favourite waterways publication on smartphone and tablet as the latest issue is available via a FREE app now! The links for each mobile device are as follows:
Apple: http://mrtns.uk/towpathapple
Android:http://mrtns.uk/towpathandroid
Kindle:http://mrtns.uk/towpathkindle
Flick through the latest issue of Towpath Talk below
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