The Story of the Kennet And Avon Canal From Inception Up To Today

TALK: The first serious attempt to build the ‘Western Canal’ in 1788 failed for lack of interest. By 1792 the Canal Mania was sweeping the country and plans and funding were in place. This story of NIMBYism on a grand scale is well documented and the rise of the canal secured before opening fully in 1810. There is a period of great success but then a decline as rail took over from canal. Then, in the 1960’s a great public movement to restore the canal for pleasure started of which we celebrate the 75th anniversary this year.

SPEAKER: David Throup retired from a management role in research for a world renowned company in Newbury, David, amongst his other interests, took a step back to Georgian technology by volunteering at Crofton Beam Engines. The picture shows the crowning glory of the Canal – Caen Hill locks. Unable to leave his research brain behind, this talk results from many hours of research completed largely without leaving home.