More than 120 walkers turned out for the 47th annual Poddle, which this year began and ended in Bramley.
The 12-mile route took participants through the Trust’s newly-acquired section at Birtley, where they were shown the headway being made in creating a 2.5km scenic circular walk and the site of a new lifting bridge. The bridge received planning permission earlier this year and is due to be constructed by volunteers by the end of 2019.
Lunch and afternoon tea were provided by Trust volunteers and the sun shone all day, making the event a resounding success. Proceeds, expected to be in the region of £8,000, will go towards funding repairs to Drungewick Lock, in West Sussex.
Wey & Arun Canal Trust chairman Sally Schupke paid tribute to the Poddle volunteers and organiser Margaret Darvill in particular for her hard work. “I’d like to thank Margaret, along with all the helpers both on the day and those involved in preparing for the walk, for their time and effort in putting the event together. Those who took part said how much they enjoyed the event and the beauty of the area.
“It was fantastic to be able to show off the transformation being made to the stretch at Birtley and give a glimpse of the benefits that can be achieved through the canal’s restoration.”
