Wheelyboat Successful Summer update

Yesterday was apparently the last day of Summer and so we thought it would be good to enquire of the Wheelyboat operations throughout the summer from organiser Rodney Cottrell.

Readers will remember, that the Wheelyboat was launched on 17th June this year at the Overwater Marina, where it is based.
In order to be able to take wheelchairs etc a special dock was constructed involving sinking galvanised poles into the ground under the water, and so the Wheelyboat became fully operational towards the end of July.

Fifteen skippers (both men and women) have volunteered, some with no experience, some with canal boat experience and some with Audlem Lass experience, but Rodney says he is looking for a further 4 – 5 people if anyone could help. Training will be provided.

Following publicity through the canal press and Ableworld (and AudlemOnline of course!) the Wheelyboat now has some 60 customers. Care Homes both near and further afield have enquired about booking an outing, including Corbrook Court, and Care Homes from Stoke, Ellesmere, and Whitchurch.

As a result some 40 groups have sailed in August and September, with approximately one third people in a wheelchair, one third carers and one third walking disabled. Also some 6-8 groups had some learning disabilities.

No ticket fee is charged but many of the groups have made donations and also a number of kind people of Audlem to help with the running costs. Rodney is now setting about raising £1000 towards insurance for next year and £300 towards the Canal and River Trust fees ( who have kindly discounted their fee from £1200 to £300.

Many groups travelling some distance enjoy a sailing followed by a coffee or lunch in the Marina Cafe.

The last sailing this year is currently 7th October to what has been a very successful inaugural summer. Congatulations to the Organisers – Rondey Cottrell and his team if volunteers.

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