Dukinfield Cleanup commemorates ‘Ashtac’.

The Manchester Branch of The Inland Waterways Association (IWA)in partnership with the Canal & River Trust is planning a weekend canal clean up event at Dukinfield Junction over the weekend of 13th and 14th October 2012.

As well as being a practical way for people to get involved in helping clean up the waterways that meet at Dukinfield Junction, it is also an opportunity to celebrate the 40th anniversary of that even bigger canal clean up, ASHTAC. Ashton Attack (ASHTAC for short) in 1972 saw approximately 1000 people work on the Ashton Canal and the Lower Peak Forest Canal over a single weekend in March 1972.  The event contributed to the Cheshire Ring being re-opened to navigation just two years later.

Clearing the Ashton Canal in 1972

Clearing the Ashton Canal in 1972

Ian Price, Chairman of IWA Manchester Branch said “Initially, a Work Party Taster Day is to be held at Dukinfield Junction on Saturday 15th September, where community groups, waterway societies and local residents will have the opportunity to talk to the Canal & River Trust about what volunteering opportunities they would like to see on the local canals.  This will be followed by a preparatory work party to clear some of the saplings growing out of the towpath edge in preparation for the canal clean up event a month later.”

Steve O’Sullivan, Volunteer Co-ordinator for the Canal & River Trust said “This is a great opportunity for people who care about their local canal to come down and get involved with helping the Trust take care of this fantastic historic network, have a lot of fun and do something really worthwhile!”.

Over the weekend of 13th and 14th October volunteers will work in all three directions from Dukinfield Junction – on the Ashton Canal, the Lower Peak Forest Canal and the Huddersfield Narrow Canal.  Rubbish and debris will be pulled out of the canal and put into workboats.  Those preferring a lighter task can have a go at litter picking.  Work boats to put the rubbish in will be provided by the Canal & River Trust, along with all tools and equipment required for the event. For both events volunteers are advised to wear stout footwear and bring waterproofs in case of rain.

More information: Alison Smedley, IWA Branch Campaign Officer, by email

alison.smedley@waterways.org.uk or phone 01538 385388/07779 090915.

Information from: IWA Manchester Branch press release, 17 August 2012

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