by: Andrew Rendell
Thanks to the Volunteers from the different teams that have helped in the history making on the canal. Vessels through Griffin Mill Lock after 85 years.
Yet again, after 7 months of Wet Dredging on the Bowbridge lock to Griffin Mill lock pound. Both support and in support with the Dry Dredging team. Remember though the Wet Dredging excavator team we're working months before stretching across the canal from the offside between Stanton's Bridge to Griffin Mill lock. Making this part of the pound navigable.
The bund is no longer there. Thanks to the Dry Dredging team, Les, Andy, Ron, Paul and Frank.
The big Day Monday 9th July. It took 4days checking and correcting flow from up the canal, Andrew and Alex made sure water was not going into the river but was going over Ham Mill stop planks to the Griffin Mill to Ham Mill Pound.
So we just had enough water and the decision was made.
Firstly Dredger no 5 and Annette2 went through the lock east. Spectators from passing public were really pleased to finally see this great moment happen.
We had cheers and claps as the lower gates were closed and raised up to the top. A lot easier than some of the Stroud canal locks as boom could stay in front of the Dredger, Alex Hannam operating the Dredger after recently getting his Dredger operating licence.
The call came and Andrew was told to stand up front. John Sirett on Annette2 slowly powered us though the upper gate, what a moment.
Steve Jones, Ron Kirby and Rachel were the acting lock operators.
But the greatest motivator is the Public who show so much interest. Oh yes and the DUCKs
I'm so pleased to have got involved in the Canal and work with fellow Volunteers who step up to the mark.
Andrew Rendell (Wet Dredging Manager)
This all before I'll receive a new and second Dredger Patricia.
