Canals and waterways are integral to our local communities, and maintaining and preserving them must be a shared endeavour. 

That’s why when a flotilla of canal and river boats sailed to Parliament last week as part of #FundBritainsWaterways I was keen to show my support. 

The sail past highlighted the passion and enthusiasm people have for the future of our inland waterways and the importance of safeguarding and preserving them for future generations. 

Locally our canals provide so many opportunities for us all to enjoy the outdoors and it’s important to support them, and the work of the Canal & River Trust, Inland Waterways and many others who work to maintain them.    

And let’s not forget this years Brownhills Canal Festival organised by the Lichfield and Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust on 17-18 August. A great event with floating traders, historic narrow boats, land traders and stalls, and much much more.