The restoration of a former Wiltshire waterway has received a major boost thanks to the donation of a dredger.
The Wilts & Berks Canal Trust recently took delivery of the 40ft, 13-ton craft at Templars Firs in Royal Wootton Bassett last week.
The workboat features a large digger arm on the bow, and steel outriggers to provide stability.
Once volunteers have been trained in its operation, it will be used to clear weeds and silt along the popular stretch which has already been restored on the southern edge of the town.
It will also be a vital tool in supporting the eventual extension of the waterway towards other restored sections on the outskirts of Swindon in the east.
Trustee Steve Bacon said: “It was a major task to arrange delivery to such a remote site, especially as we had to use a 100-ton mobile crane to lift the dredger from the transporter, over a hedge and down into the water.
The dredger being lowered into the canal. Photo by Alex Hutchings
“However, it will make a massive difference in supporting the ongoing maintenance of this stretch of the canal.
“The digger arm will keep the channel clear of weeds, which has been a big problem for many years, and will help to remove material which has washed down from neighbouring land.
“This will aid the movement of boats along the canal, which in turn helps to suppress weed growth, so it’s a virtuous circle!
“We hope people will enjoy seeing it in operation later in the year and perhaps be encouraged to learn more about our ambitious campaign to breathe new life into this wonderful waterway.”
The workboat was donated by River & Canal Services of Surrey, with the Canal Trust paying for the transportation and the digger arm.
The aim of the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust is to restore the waterway from the Kennet & Avon Canal near Melksham to the Thames & Severn Canal near Cricklade and the River Thames near Abingdon, connecting Chippenham, Calne, Royal Wootton Bassett and Swindon.
The stretch at Royal Wootton Bassett already includes a towpath, slipway, spillweir, bridges and locks, and is popular with local walkers, runners and anglers.
Volunteers are welcome to join the regular workparties.
Visit www.wbct.org.uk
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