Amanda Milling learns more about local canal network. The Inland Waterways Association took local MP Amanda Milling and County Councillor Mark Winnington on a narrowboat trip from Armitage to the northern end of Rugeley, near to Brindley Aqueduct. The purpose of the trip was to introduce the Amanda and Mark Winnington to some of the volunteers who have worked so hard to improve the canal environment around Rugeley, and also to discuss future possibilities for improved access, ‘green’ through routes and the potential for tourism. At a brief stop around Leathermill Lane to view the damage caused by turning lorries and the difficulties faced by the disabled users trying to access the towpath. At the Official Rugeley Town Moorings just north of Leathermill Lane bridge, narrowboats were unable to moor because of bank erosion. This has been a concern for some years as tourist income from hire boats is a good boost to local shops during the summer months. The average spend from each person on a hire boat is £10 per day. With many hire boats being share by over 8 people that is over £80 per day lost by each boat unable to moor in the town. Everyone had an enjoyable morning, especially when the rain stopped and the cake came out. The Inland Waterways Association wished to thank Anglo Welsh Hire Boats who kindly provided their day boat for the trip. If you want to get involved with the Inland Waterways Association please contact Margaret Beardsmore, Volunteer Coordinator, Inland Waterways Lichfield Branch on 07581 794111. Amanda Milling Said, “It was a great trip and very helpful to see some of the issue faced by narrowboat and towpath users. I would also like to pass my thanks to the volunteers who do a great job maintaining the canal environment for everyone to enjoy.”