Water weekend sailed successfully at Slough
Slough Canal Festival 2007 was a successful event, enjoyed not only by the people of Slough, but also from outside of the borough too. It raised over £850 from people making donations for the activities they took part in, which will go towards the Mayor of Slough’s charities.Enjoying a smooth sail in Slough
On the weekend of 8 and 9 September, Slough was transformed into the countryside next to the Slough Canal in Bloom Park, Middlegreen Road, which hosted approximately 2000 visitors over the weekend. Two boats provided short and long trips for both days, which proved very popular with tickets going as soon as they were available.
Children were delighted as they watched the ferrets antics racing in the tubes to reach the finish line, as well as the pony rides. “One little girl always wanted a pony ride, and because of this event she got her wish,” reported the events manager, Susan Duncan.
There were Slough children’s workshops in the play marquee such as, canal art and circus skills. Other activities included bouncy castle, trampolines, climbing wall, balloon modelling, face painters and Punch and Judy shows. A small funfair and static steam engines were nearby, all attracting audiences.
Happy with his catch!
The Environment Agency based in Hatfield, Hertfordshire was on hand with all kinds of advice and fishing lessons by experienced fishermen. Over 100 children took advantage of this activity, with many coming back for a second go. Matt Hart, technical officer in the fisheries section of the Environment Agency was extremely happy with the amount of children interested in the fishing lessons. He said: “We are absolutely thrilled with the response we had received and are looking forward to next year’s event!”
The Eagle Claw Association from Maidenhead, Berkshire, who have people from the Slough surrounding areas, performed Kung Fu demonstrations and a Lion dance to the amazement of the crowds.
Charities and arts & crafts stalls were positioned in the L shaped marquee filled with something for everyone. One member of the public commented that it would have been nice to have a lot more charities in the Arts and Crafts marquee, reported the events manager. The events team will be looking into attracting more charities for future Canal Festival events.
Spud the Dulux dog always popular with the children
Sunday saw the appearance of Spud, the Dulux dog. The children swarmed around him all waiting to stroke and talk to him said the events manager and added: “This very popular annual event attracted over 2,000 visitors over the 2 days. Sun, straw bales, boat trips, pony rides, ice cream and so much more made this year’s event very enjoyable and as another member of the public said, a truly relaxing day.”
The Slough Canal Festival is sponsored by ICI and supported by Inland Waterways.
If you are a charity organisation and are interested in having a stand in any future Canal Festivals then please contact Susan Duncan on (01753) 875571.
Slough Borough Council