Canal trust marks 75th anniversary with Semington stop

A commemorative narrowboat journey marking the 75th anniversary of the Kennet & Avon Canal Trust stopped in Semington this week.

Members of the Kennet & Avon Canal Trust passed through Semington Junction on Monday 15th June aboard the narrowboat Hannah as part of a journey from Bristol to Reading celebrating the trust’s milestone anniversary.

The crew were welcomed with tea, cake and a friendly handshake by volunteers from the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust.

Semington Junction holds an important place in the county’s industrial heritage. It marks the meeting point between the Kennet & Avon Canal, completed in 1810 to link London with Bristol, and the former Wilts & Berks Canal, which once connected the Kennet & Avon at Semington to the River Thames at Abingdon.

Although the Wilts & Berks Canal fell into decline and was officially abandoned in the early 20th century, volunteers have been working to restore sections of it for future generations.

The visit highlighted the shared commitment of both organisations to preserving and restoring the region’s historic waterways.

Chair of the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust Martin Holliss said, “The Kennet & Avon Canal clearly demonstrates the huge benefit that results when an abandoned canal is brought back to life.

“If you want to understand the economic, health and wellbeing, nature and biodiversity benefit the Wilts & Berks Canal will bring to our local communities, just look at the amazing vibrancy of the Kennet & Avon.

“The Wilts & Berks Canal Trust salutes the Kennet & Avon Canal Trust and sends many congratulations on their 75th.”

Pictured: l-r Graham Puddephatt – Chair of trustees of Kennet & Avon Canal Trust with Martin Holliss, Chair of Wilts & Berks Canal Trust