West
Vale Branch |
Ho Hum! The days are now shorter, colder and wetter (thank goodness you may say). The unusually long dry summer left us with very little water in the sections at Shrivenham, in fact most was totally dry. No so now as I write in late November. The grass has returned to its more natural green colour and water is again in the cut.
I am pleased to report that we were visited by the KESCRG group in October for a weekend work party. A very willing bunch of volunteers indeed! They helped us make a good start on the new towpath between Station Road and Steppingstone Lane Bridge, which we have continued in subsequent Branch work days. This new towpath will be a blessing to all of us that make use of the Shrivenham Circular Walk (30% alongside the Canal) as it will enable us to keep out of the very sticky mud that was the temporary path on the south side of the canal.
Unfortunately I have little to report on with regard to progress at Steppingstone Lane Bridge as the engineering plans are still with Oxfordshire County Council. The wheels of government do grind exceedingly slowly I am afraid. Also, despite meetings, letters and e-mails, we have not made much progress in obtaining suitable long leases for Savernake Brake section and the section west of Station Road. We must remain positive and not be deterred, perseverance is the watchword I am sure.
On the social front, November saw the Annual Skittle Challenge taking place between the East Vale and West Vale branches at the Plough near Shrivenham. This years event, well organised by Jan Mable, saw the favourites West Vale ousted from the winners position by a well supported East Vale. This was possibly due to the usual “anchor” (George Eycott) bowling better than usual and not having the lowest score. This honour went to Jean Norris from the West Vale team who only managed to score 14! On receiving the beautiful “Das Bot” trophy, Roy Murrell spotted that it was 10years since this event was conceived! Next years event will be hosted by the East Vale Branch.
To keep abreast of the progress at Steppingstone Lane Bridge and other aspects of our branch activities please visit our web-site at www.westvalecanal.fsnet.co.uk . If anyone feels like helping out in any area whether it be digging or writing, please contact the Branch Chairman or Work Party Organiser or attend our monthly meetings at Shrivenham Bowls Club.
Orph Mable - Branch Project Co-ordinator
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