Page 1
Ouse News - Spring 2011 The Cambridge Branch Newsletter
covering the Great Ouse area
Campaigning for the conservation,
use, maintenance, restoration and
development of the Inland
Waterways.
The InlandWaterwaysAssociation
The views expressed in thispublication are notnecessarily those of theInland WaterwaysAssociation or of theCambridge Branch. Theyare, however, published asbeing of interest to ourmembers and readers.
Contents:
Branch Committee p2
Acting Chairman’scorner p3
Obituaries p4
Area AGM Agenda p5
Branch AGM Agenda p6
AGM Minutes 2010 p7
Chairman’s Report p8
Secretary’s Report p10
Accounts p12
Branch News p13
Cam Cleanup/Ely p14
IWA Festival 2010 p15
Festival Photos p16
Branch Committee
Acting Chairman:Keith AldertonHolly Cottage, 57 Globe StreetMethwoldThetford, IP26 4PQTel. 01366 727236 e-mail:[email protected]
Secretary:John Hodgson9 Beaufort Way, BrickhillBedford MK41 7XQTel 01234 344884e-mail: [email protected]
Treasurer:Enid Hodgson9 Beaufort Way, BrickhillBedford MK41 7XQTel 01234 344884e-mail: [email protected]
Navigations Officer:Keith AldertonHolly Cottage, 57 Globe StreetMethwoldThetford, IP26 4PQTel. 01366 727236 e-mail:[email protected]
Ouse News Editor:Carole AldertonHolly Cottage, 57 Globe StreetMethwoldThetford, IP26 4PQTel. 01366 727236e-mail: [email protected]
Ouse News Advertising
• • Do you want to contact
boating enthusiasts?
• • Circulation 350 within 30 miles of Cambridge
• • Adverts cost £30 per half page for a year
• • Three editions a year
• • Contact The Editor
Sales Officer: David Anderson21 Cambridge Street,St Neots, PE19 1JLTel 01480 477227e-mail:[email protected]
Membership Officer:Peter Webb35 Norfolk RoadEly, CB6 3EJTel 01353 658581e-mail: [email protected]
Member: Stephen Foote14 High Street, ChrishallRoyston, SG8 8RPTel 01763 838936e-mail: [email protected] @headlandgroup.com
Member: Derek Bradley24 Witchford RoadEly, CB6 3DPTel 01353 661601e-mail: [email protected]
Page 2
Ouse News - Spring 2011 The Cambridge Branch Newsletter
covering the Great Ouse area
Campaigning for the conservation,
use, maintenance, restoration and
development of the Inland
Waterways.
The InlandWaterwaysAssociation
The views expressed in thispublication are notnecessarily those of theInland WaterwaysAssociation or of theCambridge Branch. Theyare, however, published asbeing of interest to ourmembers and readers.
Contents:
Branch Committee p2
Acting Chairman’scorner p3
Obituaries p4
Area AGM Agenda p5
Branch AGM Agenda p6
AGM Minutes 2010 p7
Chairman’s Report p8
Secretary’s Report p10
Accounts p12
Branch News p13
Cam Cleanup/Ely p14
IWA Festival 2010 p15
Festival Photos p16
Branch Committee
Acting Chairman:Keith AldertonHolly Cottage, 57 Globe StreetMethwoldThetford, IP26 4PQTel. 01366 727236 e-mail:[email protected]
Secretary:John Hodgson9 Beaufort Way, BrickhillBedford MK41 7XQTel 01234 344884e-mail: [email protected]
Treasurer:Enid Hodgson9 Beaufort Way, BrickhillBedford MK41 7XQTel 01234 344884e-mail: [email protected]
Navigations Officer:Keith AldertonHolly Cottage, 57 Globe StreetMethwoldThetford, IP26 4PQTel. 01366 727236 e-mail:[email protected]
Ouse News Editor:Carole AldertonHolly Cottage, 57 Globe StreetMethwoldThetford, IP26 4PQTel. 01366 727236e-mail: [email protected]
Ouse News Advertising
• • Do you want to contact
boating enthusiasts?
• • Circulation 350 within 30 miles of Cambridge
• • Adverts cost £30 per half page for a year
• • Three editions a year
• • Contact The Editor
Sales Officer: David Anderson21 Cambridge Street,St Neots, PE19 1JLTel 01480 477227e-mail:[email protected]
Membership Officer:Peter Webb35 Norfolk RoadEly, CB6 3EJTel 01353 658581e-mail: [email protected]
Member: Stephen Foote14 High Street, ChrishallRoyston, SG8 8RPTel 01763 838936e-mail: [email protected] @headlandgroup.com
Member: Derek Bradley24 Witchford RoadEly, CB6 3DPTel 01353 661601e-mail: [email protected]
Page 3
Acting Chairman’s Corner
I regret that Stephen Foote has had a few health problems of late and has
asked to stand down as Chairman for a while. I hope that you are not too
disappointed to get me instead as stand-in!
I am pleased that despite our limited resources we are back on song with a full
colour edition of Ouse News for Spring 2011 which I hope you will find to be
of interest.
Well, it has been yet another bitterly cold winter that has kept all but the most
hardy amongst us tucked up in the warm away from the river. Many marinas
have been frozen solid for weeks on end and even the Great Ouse has been
completely iced over in parts. Roll on the spring!
We have had some excellent branch meetings so far this winter with a perform-
ance by the Half Cut Theatre and a talk about Wicken Fen by the National
Trust. The next meeting on the 24th February should also be fascinating, with a
talk on Fen Lighters by local expert John Wilson. All are welcome, please feel
free to bring along any friends who may be interested.
On the national scene, it would seem that the inland waterways will be ex-
pected to take their share of the painful expenditure cuts that will, without doubt,
result in both British Waterways and the Environment Agency having to make
some very difficult financial decisions in the coming months. Hopefully, we should
learn more as to how this will affect us locally when the EA make their annual
presentation to us following the branch AGM on the 24th March.
You may have read about the Government’s proposal to convert British Water-
ways into a charitable trust along the lines of the National Trust and there is
some talk of including the EA navigations under the same banner. This move
has been widely welcomed by most interested parties as it is seen as a means of
getting away from short term stop-go financial decision making.
However, nobody has yet has explained where the money is coming from!
Surely, boaters will not be expected to pay a membership fee on top of the
ever increasing navigation license? If not boaters, who else will pay? It
has always proved to be notoriously difficult to extract a contribution from
towpath walkers and cyclists. We await developments with much interest.
Such issues are being brought much closer to home with suggestions from
the Cam Conservators seeking to increase their income by altering the
long standing arrangement with the Environment Agency and possibly im-
posing a separate fee to navigate the Cam. Your committee has sent a
considered response to a consultation document circulated by the Con-
servators.
So, all in all it looks as though the year 2011 will bring some interesting
challenges! Have a great spring. Keith Alderton
It is with regret that we report the death of 3 members of the
Cambridge Branch.
Harold Wiseman joined the IWA in January l975 and was until the AGM
last year a member of the branch committee, and ably edited and printed the
“Ouse News” from May 2005. We attended his funeral and thanksgiving
service on behalf of the branch.
Alan Pearcey died in September, his health had been causing concern for
some time. Alan was an early member of both IWA and Cambridge branch,
having first joined in 1954. When he was still able to attend branch meetings
he was always very interested in the subject, and liked to keep abreast of
new developments.
David Sanders, moved away from Ely a couple of years ago, having sold
his narrowboat “Sanderling” and was living nearer family members in
Tamworth.
We send condolences to Margaret, Norma and Sheila. We feel privileged
to have all three men. Peter & Jean Webb
Acting Chairman’s Corner
I regret that Stephen Foote has had a few health problems of late and has
asked to stand down as Chairman for a while. I hope that you are not too
disappointed to get me instead as stand-in!
I am pleased that despite our limited resources we are back on song with a full
colour edition of Ouse News for Spring 2011 which I hope you will find to be
of interest.
Well, it has been yet another bitterly cold winter that has kept all but the most
hardy amongst us tucked up in the warm away from the river. Many marinas
have been frozen solid for weeks on end and even the Great Ouse has been
completely iced over in parts. Roll on the spring!
We have had some excellent branch meetings so far this winter with a perform-
ance by the Half Cut Theatre and a talk about Wicken Fen by the National
Trust. The next meeting on the 24th February should also be fascinating, with a
talk on Fen Lighters by local expert John Wilson. All are welcome, please feel
free to bring along any friends who may be interested.
On the national scene, it would seem that the inland waterways will be ex-
pected to take their share of the painful expenditure cuts that will, without doubt,
result in both British Waterways and the Environment Agency having to make
some very difficult financial decisions in the coming months. Hopefully, we should
learn more as to how this will affect us locally when the EA make their annual
presentation to us following the branch AGM on the 24th March.
You may have read about the Government’s proposal to convert British Water-
ways into a charitable trust along the lines of the National Trust and there is
some talk of including the EA navigations under the same banner. This move
has been widely welcomed by most interested parties as it is seen as a means of
getting away from short term stop-go financial decision making.
However, nobody has yet has explained where the money is coming from!
Surely, boaters will not be expected to pay a membership fee on top of the
ever increasing navigation license? If not boaters, who else will pay? It
has always proved to be notoriously difficult to extract a contribution from
towpath walkers and cyclists. We await developments with much interest.
Such issues are being brought much closer to home with suggestions from
the Cam Conservators seeking to increase their income by altering the
long standing arrangement with the Environment Agency and possibly im-
posing a separate fee to navigate the Cam. Your committee has sent a
considered response to a consultation document circulated by the Con-
servators.
So, all in all it looks as though the year 2011 will bring some interesting
challenges! Have a great spring. Keith Alderton
It is with regret that we report the death of 3 members of the
Cambridge Branch.
Harold Wiseman joined the IWA in January l975 and was until the AGM
last year a member of the branch committee, and ably edited and printed the
“Ouse News” from May 2005. We attended his funeral and thanksgiving
service on behalf of the branch.
Alan Pearcey died in September, his health had been causing concern for
some time. Alan was an early member of both IWA and Cambridge branch,
having first joined in 1954. When he was still able to attend branch meetings
he was always very interested in the subject, and liked to keep abreast of
new developments.
David Sanders, moved away from Ely a couple of years ago, having sold
his narrowboat “Sanderling” and was living nearer family members in
Tamworth.
We send condolences to Margaret, Norma and Sheila. We feel privileged
to have all three men. Peter & Jean Webb
Acting Chairman’s Corner
I regret that Stephen Foote has had a few health problems of late and has
asked to stand down as Chairman for a while. I hope that you are not too
disappointed to get me instead as stand-in!
I am pleased that despite our limited resources we are back on song with a full
colour edition of Ouse News for Spring 2011 which I hope you will find to be
of interest.
Well, it has been yet another bitterly cold winter that has kept all but the most
hardy amongst us tucked up in the warm away from the river. Many marinas
have been frozen solid for weeks on end and even the Great Ouse has been
completely iced over in parts. Roll on the spring!
We have had some excellent branch meetings so far this winter with a perform-
ance by the Half Cut Theatre and a talk about Wicken Fen by the National
Trust. The next meeting on the 24th February should also be fascinating, with a
talk on Fen Lighters by local expert John Wilson. All are welcome, please feel
free to bring along any friends who may be interested.
On the national scene, it would seem that the inland waterways will be ex-
pected to take their share of the painful expenditure cuts that will, without doubt,
result in both British Waterways and the Environment Agency having to make
some very difficult financial decisions in the coming months. Hopefully, we should
learn more as to how this will affect us locally when the EA make their annual
presentation to us following the branch AGM on the 24th March.
You may have read about the Government’s proposal to convert British Water-
ways into a charitable trust along the lines of the National Trust and there is
some talk of including the EA navigations under the same banner. This move
has been widely welcomed by most interested parties as it is seen as a means of
getting away from short term stop-go financial decision making.
However, nobody has yet has explained where the money is coming from!
Surely, boaters will not be expected to pay a membership fee on top of the
ever increasing navigation license? If not boaters, who else will pay? It
has always proved to be notoriously difficult to extract a contribution from
towpath walkers and cyclists. We await developments with much interest.
Such issues are being brought much closer to home with suggestions from
the Cam Conservators seeking to increase their income by altering the
long standing arrangement with the Environment Agency and possibly im-
posing a separate fee to navigate the Cam. Your committee has sent a
considered response to a consultation document circulated by the Con-
servators.
So, all in all it looks as though the year 2011 will bring some interesting
challenges! Have a great spring. Keith Alderton
It is with regret that we report the death of 3 members of the
Cambridge Branch.
Harold Wiseman joined the IWA in January l975 and was until the AGM
last year a member of the branch committee, and ably edited and printed the
“Ouse News” from May 2005. We attended his funeral and thanksgiving
service on behalf of the branch.
Alan Pearcey died in September, his health had been causing concern for
some time. Alan was an early member of both IWA and Cambridge branch,
having first joined in 1954. When he was still able to attend branch meetings
he was always very interested in the subject, and liked to keep abreast of
new developments.
David Sanders, moved away from Ely a couple of years ago, having sold
his narrowboat “Sanderling” and was living nearer family members in
Tamworth.
We send condolences to Margaret, Norma and Sheila. We feel privileged
to have all three men. Peter & Jean Webb
Page 4
Acting Chairman’s Corner
I regret that Stephen Foote has had a few health problems of late and has
asked to stand down as Chairman for a while. I hope that you are not too
disappointed to get me instead as stand-in!
I am pleased that despite our limited resources we are back on song with a full
colour edition of Ouse News for Spring 2011 which I hope you will find to be
of interest.
Well, it has been yet another bitterly cold winter that has kept all but the most
hardy amongst us tucked up in the warm away from the river. Many marinas
have been frozen solid for weeks on end and even the Great Ouse has been
completely iced over in parts. Roll on the spring!
We have had some excellent branch meetings so far this winter with a perform-
ance by the Half Cut Theatre and a talk about Wicken Fen by the National
Trust. The next meeting on the 24th February should also be fascinating, with a
talk on Fen Lighters by local expert John Wilson. All are welcome, please feel
free to bring along any friends who may be interested.
On the national scene, it would seem that the inland waterways will be ex-
pected to take their share of the painful expenditure cuts that will, without doubt,
result in both British Waterways and the Environment Agency having to make
some very difficult financial decisions in the coming months. Hopefully, we should
learn more as to how this will affect us locally when the EA make their annual
presentation to us following the branch AGM on the 24th March.
You may have read about the Government’s proposal to convert British Water-
ways into a charitable trust along the lines of the National Trust and there is
some talk of including the EA navigations under the same banner. This move
has been widely welcomed by most interested parties as it is seen as a means of
getting away from short term stop-go financial decision making.
However, nobody has yet has explained where the money is coming from!
Surely, boaters will not be expected to pay a membership fee on top of the
ever increasing navigation license? If not boaters, who else will pay? It
has always proved to be notoriously difficult to extract a contribution from
towpath walkers and cyclists. We await developments with much interest.
Such issues are being brought much closer to home with suggestions from
the Cam Conservators seeking to increase their income by altering the
long standing arrangement with the Environment Agency and possibly im-
posing a separate fee to navigate the Cam. Your committee has sent a
considered response to a consultation document circulated by the Con-
servators.
So, all in all it looks as though the year 2011 will bring some interesting
challenges! Have a great spring. Keith Alderton
It is with regret that we report the death of 3 members of the
Cambridge Branch.
Harold Wiseman joined the IWA in January l975 and was until the AGM
last year a member of the branch committee, and ably edited and printed the
“Ouse News” from May 2005. We attended his funeral and thanksgiving
service on behalf of the branch.
Alan Pearcey died in September, his health had been causing concern for
some time. Alan was an early member of both IWA and Cambridge branch,
having first joined in 1954. When he was still able to attend branch meetings
he was always very interested in the subject, and liked to keep abreast of
new developments.
David Sanders, moved away from Ely a couple of years ago, having sold
his narrowboat “Sanderling” and was living nearer family members in
Tamworth.
We send condolences to Margaret, Norma and Sheila. We feel privileged
to have all three men. Peter & Jean Webb
Page 5
EASTERN REGION ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
Notice is hereby given that the Annual General Meeting of the East-
ern Region of the Inland Waterways Association will be held on
Wednesday, 16th March 2011 at the Peterborough and District Indoor
Bowls Centre, Burton Street, Peterborough, PE1 5HA at 7.30 p.m.
AGENDA
1. Apologies
2. Approval of the Minutes of the AGM held on 18th March 2010
3. Matters Arising from those Minutes
4. Chairman’s Report
5. Election of Committee Members (see notes below)
Notes: [following the amendment of Region Byelaws which came into force
on 14/3/09]
a) The Chairman of the Region is elected in a separate ballot and the
Chairmen of each of the branches within the Region are members of the
Region committee ex officio. This is an election for the remaining members
of the Region committee.
b) There is no limit to the number of members of that committee
c) The period of office of the following elected members of the commit-
tee comes to an end at the 2011 AGM namely, Derek Bradley and Roger
Sexton. Both are eligible to stand for re-election.
d) It is no longer necessary for those who wish to be elected to the
committee to be nominated and seconded, but all who wish to stand
must agree to do so. Consents from members of the Region who wish
to stand for election at the AGM 2011 must be deposited with the
Region Secretary [Nigel Long, 7 Georgian Court, Peterborough, PE3 6AF
or by email at [email protected] ] before the start of the AG M.
CONSENT FORM
I agree to stand for election to the Eastern Region committee at the 2011
Annual General Meeting. I am a member of Eastern Region
(Sign) ——————————————Print Name ———————
Notice is hereby given that the Annual General Meeting of the
Cambridge Branch of the Inland Waterways Association will be held on
Thursday, 24th March 2011 at the Community Centre, Milton, Cambridge,
CB24 6BL at 8.00 p.m.
AGENDA
1. Chairman’s welcome and apologies for absence
2. Approval of the Minutes of the AGM held on 18th March 2010
3. Matters Arising from those Minutes, not included on this agenda
4. Chairman’s Report - printed on page 8
5. Secretary’s Report - printed on page 10
6. Treasurer’s Report and presentation of accounts - printed on page 12
7. Election of Branch Committee
8. Close of Meeting
Notes: [following the amendment of Byelaws dated 14/3/09]
1. Accounts are audited by IWA Head Office. There is no need to
adopt the accounts or appoint an auditor.
2. There is no longer any limit to Committee numbers. Members serve
for 3 years after which they retire but may seek re-election.
3. Those due for re-election/election this year are: John Hodgson, Keith
Alderton, Enid Hodgson and Carole Alderton.
4. New Committee Members are most welcome. Those who would
like to stand must sign the consent form below and send to the Branch
Secretary, John Hodgson (Address on page 2) before the AGM
INLAND WATERS ASSOCIATION CONSENT FORM
I agree to stand for election at the Annual Meeting of the Cambridge Branch. I
am a member of the Cambridge Branch.
(Sign) .................................................. Print Name ............................
Date ...............................
Page 6
EASTERN REGION ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
Notice is hereby given that the Annual General Meeting of the East-
ern Region of the Inland Waterways Association will be held on
Wednesday, 16th March 2011 at the Peterborough and District Indoor
Bowls Centre, Burton Street, Peterborough, PE1 5HA at 7.30 p.m.
AGENDA
1. Apologies
2. Approval of the Minutes of the AGM held on 18th March 2010
3. Matters Arising from those Minutes
4. Chairman’s Report
5. Election of Committee Members (see notes below)
Notes: [following the amendment of Region Byelaws which came into force
on 14/3/09]
a) The Chairman of the Region is elected in a separate ballot and the
Chairmen of each of the branches within the Region are members of the
Region committee ex officio. This is an election for the remaining members
of the Region committee.
b) There is no limit to the number of members of that committee
c) The period of office of the following elected members of the commit-
tee comes to an end at the 2011 AGM namely, Derek Bradley and Roger
Sexton. Both are eligible to stand for re-election.
d) It is no longer necessary for those who wish to be elected to the
committee to be nominated and seconded, but all who wish to stand
must agree to do so. Consents from members of the Region who wish
to stand for election at the AGM 2011 must be deposited with the
Region Secretary [Nigel Long, 7 Georgian Court, Peterborough, PE3 6AF
or by email at [email protected] ] before the start of the AG M.
CONSENT FORM
I agree to stand for election to the Eastern Region committee at the 2011
Annual General Meeting. I am a member of Eastern Region
(Sign) ——————————————Print Name ———————
Notice is hereby given that the Annual General Meeting of the
Cambridge Branch of the Inland Waterways Association will be held on
Thursday, 24th March 2011 at the Community Centre, Milton, Cambridge,
CB24 6BL at 8.00 p.m.
AGENDA
1. Chairman’s welcome and apologies for absence
2. Approval of the Minutes of the AGM held on 18th March 2010
3. Matters Arising from those Minutes, not included on this agenda
4. Chairman’s Report - printed on page 8
5. Secretary’s Report - printed on page 10
6. Treasurer’s Report and presentation of accounts - printed on page 12
7. Election of Branch Committee
8. Close of Meeting
Notes: [following the amendment of Byelaws dated 14/3/09]
1. Accounts are audited by IWA Head Office. There is no need to
adopt the accounts or appoint an auditor.
2. There is no longer any limit to Committee numbers. Members serve
for 3 years after which they retire but may seek re-election.
3. Those due for re-election/election this year are: John Hodgson, Keith
Alderton, Enid Hodgson and Carole Alderton.
4. New Committee Members are most welcome. Those who would
like to stand must sign the consent form below and send to the Branch
Secretary, John Hodgson (Address on page 2) before the AGM
INLAND WATERS ASSOCIATION CONSENT FORM
I agree to stand for election at the Annual Meeting of the Cambridge Branch. I
am a member of the Cambridge Branch.
(Sign) .................................................. Print Name ............................
Date ...............................
Page 7
7. Election of Committee Members.
Stephen Foote, Peter Webb and Taff James were due to step down by
rotation after their 3 year term of office. Derek Bradley, having been co-
opted during the year following his retirement as Regional Chairman, was
eligible for election. Taff James has decided to retire from the Branch Com-
mittee. Nomination forms had been received, by the Secretary, for Stephen
Foote, Peter Webb and Derek Bradley. It was proposed by Keith Alderton
and seconded by Jack Maiden that all 3 be elected to the Committee. This
was passed unanimously.
The Chairman noted that there had still been no appointment as Social
Organiser and a volunteer would be welcome as would a volunteer to
become the Branch Treasurer.
The Chairman expressed his thanks, on behalf of the Branch, to Taff James
for his services during his terms on the Committee.
8. There being no further business, the Chairman closed the meeting at 8.21
pm.
Chairman’s Report 2010
Several issues have arisen during the course of 2010 which have kept the
IWA on its toes both nationally and locally. Nationally of course the ‘big one’
has been the future of the management of the waterways infrastructure in the
light of the funding cuts; locally the consultation into future licensing and charges
launched by the Conservators of the River Cam has caused considerable
controversy; Keith Alderton comments on both these items elsewhere in
Ouse News.
The National Festival this year was held at Beale Park, near Pangbourne on
the River Thames. A number of Cambridge Branch members attended both
by road and by water and despite some dreadful weather conditions both
before and after, the event itself was blessed with reasonable conditions and
a good time was had by all.
Minutes of the Annual General Meeting of the Cambridge Branch
of the Inland Waterways Association held on Thursday 18 March
2010 at the Community Centre, Milton, Cambridge at 8.15 p.m.
Present: Derek Bradley (Acting Chairman) plus 21 Cambridge Branch
members and visitors.
1. Apologies for absence.
The Chairman welcomed everyone to the meeting and noted apologies
for absence from: Stephen Foote, Jonathan Mead, Harold Wiseman,
Archie and Jennie Ferguson.
2. Minutes of the Annual General Meeting held on 19 March 2009
The minutes of the previous AGM were printed on page 7 of the Spring
2010 issue of the Branch newsletter “Ouse News” mailed to all mem-
bers. It was proposed by Jack Maiden, seconded by David Anderson
that these be adopted as a true record. This was agreed unanimously.
3. Matters arising from the AGM on 19 March 2009
There were no matters arising.
4. Chairman’s Report
The Chairman’s report was printed on page 8/9 of Ouse News. There
was nothing to add to those notes.
There were no questions for the Chairman
5. Secretary’s Report
The Secretary’s report was printed on page 9/10 of Ouse News. There
was nothing to add to these notes
There were no questions for the Secretary.
6. Treasurer’s Report.
The Treasurer’s report and accounts were printed on page 11 of Ouse
News. There were no questions for the Treasurer.
Page 8
7. Election of Committee Members.
Stephen Foote, Peter Webb and Taff James were due to step down by
rotation after their 3 year term of office. Derek Bradley, having been co-
opted during the year following his retirement as Regional Chairman, was
eligible for election. Taff James has decided to retire from the Branch Com-
mittee. Nomination forms had been received, by the Secretary, for Stephen
Foote, Peter Webb and Derek Bradley. It was proposed by Keith Alderton
and seconded by Jack Maiden that all 3 be elected to the Committee. This
was passed unanimously.
The Chairman noted that there had still been no appointment as Social
Organiser and a volunteer would be welcome as would a volunteer to
become the Branch Treasurer.
The Chairman expressed his thanks, on behalf of the Branch, to Taff James
for his services during his terms on the Committee.
8. There being no further business, the Chairman closed the meeting at 8.21
pm.
Chairman’s Report 2010
Several issues have arisen during the course of 2010 which have kept the
IWA on its toes both nationally and locally. Nationally of course the ‘big one’
has been the future of the management of the waterways infrastructure in the
light of the funding cuts; locally the consultation into future licensing and charges
launched by the Conservators of the River Cam has caused considerable
controversy; Keith Alderton comments on both these items elsewhere in
Ouse News.
The National Festival this year was held at Beale Park, near Pangbourne on
the River Thames. A number of Cambridge Branch members attended both
by road and by water and despite some dreadful weather conditions both
before and after, the event itself was blessed with reasonable conditions and
a good time was had by all.
Minutes of the Annual General Meeting of the Cambridge Branch
of the Inland Waterways Association held on Thursday 18 March
2010 at the Community Centre, Milton, Cambridge at 8.15 p.m.
Present: Derek Bradley (Acting Chairman) plus 21 Cambridge Branch
members and visitors.
1. Apologies for absence.
The Chairman welcomed everyone to the meeting and noted apologies
for absence from: Stephen Foote, Jonathan Mead, Harold Wiseman,
Archie and Jennie Ferguson.
2. Minutes of the Annual General Meeting held on 19 March 2009
The minutes of the previous AGM were printed on page 7 of the Spring
2010 issue of the Branch newsletter “Ouse News” mailed to all mem-
bers. It was proposed by Jack Maiden, seconded by David Anderson
that these be adopted as a true record. This was agreed unanimously.
3. Matters arising from the AGM on 19 March 2009
There were no matters arising.
4. Chairman’s Report
The Chairman’s report was printed on page 8/9 of Ouse News. There
was nothing to add to those notes.
There were no questions for the Chairman
5. Secretary’s Report
The Secretary’s report was printed on page 9/10 of Ouse News. There
was nothing to add to these notes
There were no questions for the Secretary.
6. Treasurer’s Report.
The Treasurer’s report and accounts were printed on page 11 of Ouse
News. There were no questions for the Treasurer.
Page 9
In 2011 the event will return to Burton upon Trent, but over the weekend
of July 29-31 instead of the traditional August Bank Holiday, in response
to comments from both visitors and exhibitors. And if there are any ama-
teur radio operators reading this - it is also proposed to hold a ‘Waterways
on the Air’ event over the same weekend.
Our annual Reach Fair Boat Gathering took place over the early May
Bank holiday weekend and was reported in the summer edition of Ouse
News. This year the event unfortunately clashes with IWA’s Campaign
Rally on the river Nene at Northampton but we hope that despite the com-
petition, we will have a good turnout of boats and members and look for-
ward to seeing you at Reach Lode in May. And here’s hoping for some
better weather!
At the end of February I attended an IWA seminar in Stoke-on-Trent for
branch committee members, at which a number of subjects were aired and
discussed including membership issues, branch activities and electronic com-
munications. The new IWA web-site has not been without its problems but
a seminar for members of Eastern Region Branch Committees will be held
in Cambridge during the coming April at which we hope to learn how to
update and improve the ‘Cambridge Branch’ content of the site.
Lastly some of you may know that I was unwell towards the end of last
year, and had a short incarceration in the heart unit at Papworth Hospital.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank Keith Alderton who has
generously stepped into the breach to assume the responsibilities of Branch
Chairman. I’m extremely grateful.
Best wishes to all for 2011 and look forward to seeing you on and around
the waterways.
Stephen Foote
Ouse News Page 10
As usual, the Branch was represented at Reach Fair on May 2 and the Ely
Aquafest on July 4. The Branch was represented there but, as always,
there were no significant funds raised. These events are important as they
maintain the profile of the Branch which is their main function. The gathering
of boats at Reach in conjunction with the Fair was, as usual, a feature of the
annual programme, albeit with a few less boats than is sometimes the case,
mainly because of the dreadful weather. The intended barbecuers and quiz
entrants decamped onto Gail and Jonathan Mead’s boat, Safina, where
they were entertained to lunch and the quiz was won by Keith and Millie
from NB Sir Christopher Wren.
Branch Secretary’s report 2010
The Branch has had an interesting year in terms of activities and talks. So
far, however, attendances have been somewhat disappointing and it would
be good to see more members at future meetings. Details of all meetings
are to be found elsewhere in Ouse News. There is always a cuppa and a
biscuit which should not be overlooked! On this subject, the Branch still
has no formal organiser for these events so a volunteer would be welcome.
While mentioning committee members, we are all saddened by the passing
of our “Ouse News” editor, Harold Wiseman. Harold brought to the Branch
the expertise and enthusiasm to develop the newsletter to what it is today.
He was, simply, one of nature’s gentlemen.
He is replaced as editor by Carole Alderton, ably assisted by Meg Foote
who will be delighted to receive articles various from members of the branch!
During this year Jonathan Mead stood down as the branch treasurer due to
pressures from other directions and our thanks go to him for his efforts. He
is replaced by Enid Hodgson. The Committee would welcome other mem-
bers joining them as more ideas are always welcome!
Page 10
In 2011 the event will return to Burton upon Trent, but over the weekend
of July 29-31 instead of the traditional August Bank Holiday, in response
to comments from both visitors and exhibitors. And if there are any ama-
teur radio operators reading this - it is also proposed to hold a ‘Waterways
on the Air’ event over the same weekend.
Our annual Reach Fair Boat Gathering took place over the early May
Bank holiday weekend and was reported in the summer edition of Ouse
News. This year the event unfortunately clashes with IWA’s Campaign
Rally on the river Nene at Northampton but we hope that despite the com-
petition, we will have a good turnout of boats and members and look for-
ward to seeing you at Reach Lode in May. And here’s hoping for some
better weather!
At the end of February I attended an IWA seminar in Stoke-on-Trent for
branch committee members, at which a number of subjects were aired and
discussed including membership issues, branch activities and electronic com-
munications. The new IWA web-site has not been without its problems but
a seminar for members of Eastern Region Branch Committees will be held
in Cambridge during the coming April at which we hope to learn how to
update and improve the ‘Cambridge Branch’ content of the site.
Lastly some of you may know that I was unwell towards the end of last
year, and had a short incarceration in the heart unit at Papworth Hospital.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank Keith Alderton who has
generously stepped into the breach to assume the responsibilities of Branch
Chairman. I’m extremely grateful.
Best wishes to all for 2011 and look forward to seeing you on and around
the waterways.
Stephen Foote
Ouse News Page 10
As usual, the Branch was represented at Reach Fair on May 2 and the Ely
Aquafest on July 4. The Branch was represented there but, as always,
there were no significant funds raised. These events are important as they
maintain the profile of the Branch which is their main function. The gathering
of boats at Reach in conjunction with the Fair was, as usual, a feature of the
annual programme, albeit with a few less boats than is sometimes the case,
mainly because of the dreadful weather. The intended barbecuers and quiz
entrants decamped onto Gail and Jonathan Mead’s boat, Safina, where
they were entertained to lunch and the quiz was won by Keith and Millie
from NB Sir Christopher Wren.
Branch Secretary’s report 2010
The Branch has had an interesting year in terms of activities and talks. So
far, however, attendances have been somewhat disappointing and it would
be good to see more members at future meetings. Details of all meetings
are to be found elsewhere in Ouse News. There is always a cuppa and a
biscuit which should not be overlooked! On this subject, the Branch still
has no formal organiser for these events so a volunteer would be welcome.
While mentioning committee members, we are all saddened by the passing
of our “Ouse News” editor, Harold Wiseman. Harold brought to the Branch
the expertise and enthusiasm to develop the newsletter to what it is today.
He was, simply, one of nature’s gentlemen.
He is replaced as editor by Carole Alderton, ably assisted by Meg Foote
who will be delighted to receive articles various from members of the branch!
During this year Jonathan Mead stood down as the branch treasurer due to
pressures from other directions and our thanks go to him for his efforts. He
is replaced by Enid Hodgson. The Committee would welcome other mem-
bers joining them as more ideas are always welcome!
Page 11
Those of you who moor at the Bedford end of the system will be particularly
aware of the closures that have been applied during the present licensing
year. Cardington lock is, as I write, closed and has been since the beginning
of November 2010. It is not due to re-open until towards the end of Febru-
ary, a period of almost 4 months! This following a major shut down when the
gates were removed in March 2009. That in itself was not their first attempt.
In May 2010, Castle Mill lock was closed for a week and again for 3 weeks
June / July, another month in total. A total loss of amenity of the entire river
for those at Bedford, for almost 5 months out of the 12 in this licence year!
We must hope that the lock will be user friendly after this effort!
At present the Government is in the process of introducing more EU legisla-
tion concerning the sulphur content in diesel fuel oil. In simple terms there is
concern that the type of fuel it was originally proposed to permit would have
major detrimental effects to engines especially when left standing for a period
i.e. over the winter lay up period. There are modifications to the legislation
planned and further information will be made available later.
You will probably be aware by now that the committee is hoping to circulate
“Ouse News” by e-mail to as many members as possible who would prefer
to receive it in that format. This would, hopefully, save scarce Branch funds
being spent on paper and postage.
In the near future it is planned that the Branch will have its own area on the
Head Office web site: www.waterways.org.uk/Home please have a look
at the main site and later at our own part. When ours is available, notifica-
tion will be made in “Ouse News”
Finally, I would like to wish everyone a sunny and happy boating season
and hope to meet as many of you as possible somewhere on the system.
John Hodgson
Notes:
1. An item not listed above is the continuing commitment of £500 to the
restoration of River Little Ouse navigation to Thetford.
2. At the time the Accounts were required by IWA for auditing and publication,
the Treasurer was unable to ascertain from the Sales Officer the Branch Sales
income. Enid Hodgson
TREASURER’S REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2010Balance Sheet as at 31st December 2010
£ £
Balance at 1 Jan 2010 2,433.05 Current assets:
Debtors
Surplus/(deficit) for year (-554.86) Current account 100.00
Business Premium a/c 1,778.19
Cash, Sales Officer
Less liabilities
Creditors
Balance at 31 December 2010 1,878.19 1,878.19
INCOME & EXPENDITURE
INCOME £ EXPENDITURE £
Subs: Per capita re newsletter 336.53 Newsletter:
Collections at meetings 62.31 Production 303.72
Branch sales - Distribution 246.88
Donations: Guest speakers 40.00
Branch sales of donated goods Purchase of Sales stock 104.60
Meeting refreshments 47.00 Rotary Club: Aquafest 16.00
Ely Boat Chandlers: Advert Meeting costs 202.46
Raffle costs
Cash banked by Treasurer 7.27 Subscription: EAWA 10.00
Interest received 27.34 Officers expenses (Postage) 5.18
Stationery 6.48
Software for Ouse News 99.99
Raffle at Reach BBQ IWA Sales reconciliation
Excess of income expenditure ( -554.86)
Total Income 480.45 Total Payments 480.45
Page 12
Those of you who moor at the Bedford end of the system will be particularly
aware of the closures that have been applied during the present licensing
year. Cardington lock is, as I write, closed and has been since the beginning
of November 2010. It is not due to re-open until towards the end of Febru-
ary, a period of almost 4 months! This following a major shut down when the
gates were removed in March 2009. That in itself was not their first attempt.
In May 2010, Castle Mill lock was closed for a week and again for 3 weeks
June / July, another month in total. A total loss of amenity of the entire river
for those at Bedford, for almost 5 months out of the 12 in this licence year!
We must hope that the lock will be user friendly after this effort!
At present the Government is in the process of introducing more EU legisla-
tion concerning the sulphur content in diesel fuel oil. In simple terms there is
concern that the type of fuel it was originally proposed to permit would have
major detrimental effects to engines especially when left standing for a period
i.e. over the winter lay up period. There are modifications to the legislation
planned and further information will be made available later.
You will probably be aware by now that the committee is hoping to circulate
“Ouse News” by e-mail to as many members as possible who would prefer
to receive it in that format. This would, hopefully, save scarce Branch funds
being spent on paper and postage.
In the near future it is planned that the Branch will have its own area on the
Head Office web site: www.waterways.org.uk/Home please have a look
at the main site and later at our own part. When ours is available, notifica-
tion will be made in “Ouse News”
Finally, I would like to wish everyone a sunny and happy boating season
and hope to meet as many of you as possible somewhere on the system.
John Hodgson
Notes:
1. An item not listed above is the continuing commitment of £500 to the
restoration of River Little Ouse navigation to Thetford.
2. At the time the Accounts were required by IWA for auditing and publication,
the Treasurer was unable to ascertain from the Sales Officer the Branch Sales
income. Enid Hodgson
TREASURER’S REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2010Balance Sheet as at 31st December 2010
£ £
Balance at 1 Jan 2010 2,433.05 Current assets:
Debtors
Surplus/(deficit) for year (-554.86) Current account 100.00
Business Premium a/c 1,778.19
Cash, Sales Officer
Less liabilities
Creditors
Balance at 31 December 2010 1,878.19 1,878.19
INCOME & EXPENDITURE
INCOME £ EXPENDITURE £
Subs: Per capita re newsletter 336.53 Newsletter:
Collections at meetings 62.31 Production 303.72
Branch sales - Distribution 246.88
Donations: Guest speakers 40.00
Branch sales of donated goods Purchase of Sales stock 104.60
Meeting refreshments 47.00 Rotary Club: Aquafest 16.00
Ely Boat Chandlers: Advert Meeting costs 202.46
Raffle costs
Cash banked by Treasurer 7.27 Subscription: EAWA 10.00
Interest received 27.34 Officers expenses (Postage) 5.18
Stationery 6.48
Software for Ouse News 99.99
Raffle at Reach BBQ IWA Sales reconciliation
Excess of income expenditure ( -554.86)
Total Income 480.45 Total Payments 480.45
Page 13
May we remind
members to send
any changes of e-
mail addresses to:
tracy.higgin@
waterways.org.uk
We welcome
the following new
members to the
branch and hope
they will introduce
themselves to us
when coming to an event or
meeting.
Ms L Bennett, Ely
Mr M Snaith, Great Shelford
Mr H Warren, Cottenham
Mr S Hastings, Bury St Edmunds
THURSDAY, 24TH MARCH 2011
We start the evening with the Branch
Annual General Meeting, followed
by our annual update from the river
managers of the Environment
Agency.
SUNDAY, 1ST MAY 2011
Gathering of boats at ReachLode. This annual event, with its
lunchtime barbecue and quiz, has
become increasingly popular with
members who come by both boat
and car. Bring your own food and
drink.
Reach Fair is held on the
following day - Bank
Holiday Monday.
Branch News
Winter Meetings
are at 8 pm. on Thursday
evenings at the Cole’s Road
Community Centre, Milton
(North Cambridge) CB24 6BL.
Members & Visitors welcome.
THURSDAY, 24TH FEBRUARY 2011
A talk and slideshow by John Wilson
about Fen Lighters, which should
prove to be a very interesting
evening.
Ouse News Page 14
A well stocked Inland Chandlery with friendly and
knowledgeable staff catering for Cruisers & Narrowboats Come and see us (you'll find us 2 minutes walk from Ely waterfront), or have a look
at our easy to use mailorder website
Boat
Safety Scheme
Examinations
Mooring on ElyWaterfront
Boaters need to be awarethat the local authority arenow patrolling ElyWaterfront on a regularbasis, recording the namesof moored boats. Thosewho outstay the 48 hourlimit are being moved on.
This is surely good newsfor the vast majority ofboaters who play by therules.
Keith Alderton
Cam Cleanup
As you know the Cam Cleanup takes place annually and is a popularevent for local residents, community groups and the residential boatingcommunity. This year the event will take place on Saturday, 26thMarch between 10.00 am and 1.00 pm, culminating with a BBQ.
The 2009 Cleanup saw more than 200 volunteers collect over 400bags of recyclable and general rubbish from the river and its banks.Hard working grapple teams recovered a whopping 100 bikes fromthe riverbed and three motorised scooters were retrieved fromStourbridge Common.
For more information see http://www.camboaters.co.uk/camcleanup/index.htm1 or http://www.cambridge-news.co.uk/Home/Wave-of-
trash-is-cleared-up.htm.If you wish to volunteerp lease emai [email protected]
Peter Webb
Page 14
May we remind
members to send
any changes of e-
mail addresses to:
tracy.higgin@
waterways.org.uk
We welcome
the following new
members to the
branch and hope
they will introduce
themselves to us
when coming to an event or
meeting.
Ms L Bennett, Ely
Mr M Snaith, Great Shelford
Mr H Warren, Cottenham
Mr S Hastings, Bury St Edmunds
THURSDAY, 24TH MARCH 2011
We start the evening with the Branch
Annual General Meeting, followed
by our annual update from the river
managers of the Environment
Agency.
SUNDAY, 1ST MAY 2011
Gathering of boats at ReachLode. This annual event, with its
lunchtime barbecue and quiz, has
become increasingly popular with
members who come by both boat
and car. Bring your own food and
drink.
Reach Fair is held on the
following day - Bank
Holiday Monday.
Branch News
Winter Meetings
are at 8 pm. on Thursday
evenings at the Cole’s Road
Community Centre, Milton
(North Cambridge) CB24 6BL.
Members & Visitors welcome.
THURSDAY, 24TH FEBRUARY 2011
A talk and slideshow by John Wilson
about Fen Lighters, which should
prove to be a very interesting
evening.
Ouse News Page 14
A well stocked Inland Chandlery with friendly and
knowledgeable staff catering for Cruisers & Narrowboats Come and see us (you'll find us 2 minutes walk from Ely waterfront), or have a look
at our easy to use mailorder website
Boat
Safety Scheme
Examinations
Mooring on ElyWaterfront
Boaters need to be awarethat the local authority arenow patrolling ElyWaterfront on a regularbasis, recording the namesof moored boats. Thosewho outstay the 48 hourlimit are being moved on.
This is surely good newsfor the vast majority ofboaters who play by therules.
Keith Alderton
Cam Cleanup
As you know the Cam Cleanup takes place annually and is a popularevent for local residents, community groups and the residential boatingcommunity. This year the event will take place on Saturday, 26thMarch between 10.00 am and 1.00 pm, culminating with a BBQ.
The 2009 Cleanup saw more than 200 volunteers collect over 400bags of recyclable and general rubbish from the river and its banks.Hard working grapple teams recovered a whopping 100 bikes fromthe riverbed and three motorised scooters were retrieved fromStourbridge Common.
For more information see http://www.camboaters.co.uk/camcleanup/index.htm1 or http://www.cambridge-news.co.uk/Home/Wave-of-
trash-is-cleared-up.htm.If you wish to volunteerp lease emai [email protected]
Peter Webb
Page 15
The focal point of the IWA festival at Beale Park this year was the Heritage
Wharf to celebrate 200 years
since the Kennet & Avon
opened.
Volunteers from the Kennet &
Avon Canal Trust built the rep-
lica wharf in the two weeks be-
fore the Festival from scratch
using sheets of plywood and
timber. It was then painted to
give the appearance of being
stone built. Even one of the cranes was constructed from timber.
The wharf was named after Barry Green who died recently. Barry was one
of the Festival Directors, in-
volved with the Broads Au-
thority Committees and he
had been a former Eastern
Region Chairman.
The Grand Opening took
place at the wharf where
many historic boats were
moored alongside.
The wharf buildings were filled
with K & A displays and arte-
facts and some of children’s
WOW activities took place
there.
Peter and Jean Webb
Memories of Beale Park September 2010
The Inland Waterways Association is a non-profit distributing company limited by
guarantee. Registered in England no 612245 Registered as a charity no 212342
Registered Office: Island House, Moor Rd, Chesham, HP5 1WA. Phone 01494 783453
Page 16
The focal point of the IWA festival at Beale Park this year was the Heritage
Wharf to celebrate 200 years
since the Kennet & Avon
opened.
Volunteers from the Kennet &
Avon Canal Trust built the rep-
lica wharf in the two weeks be-
fore the Festival from scratch
using sheets of plywood and
timber. It was then painted to
give the appearance of being
stone built. Even one of the cranes was constructed from timber.
The wharf was named after Barry Green who died recently. Barry was one
of the Festival Directors, in-
volved with the Broads Au-
thority Committees and he
had been a former Eastern
Region Chairman.
The Grand Opening took
place at the wharf where
many historic boats were
moored alongside.
The wharf buildings were filled
with K & A displays and arte-
facts and some of children’s
WOW activities took place
there.
Peter and Jean Webb
Memories of Beale Park September 2010
The Inland Waterways Association is a non-profit distributing company limited by
guarantee. Registered in England no 612245 Registered as a charity no 212342
Registered Office: Island House, Moor Rd, Chesham, HP5 1WA. Phone 01494 783453
The focal point of the IWA festival at Beale Park this year was the Heritage
Wharf to celebrate 200 years
since the Kennet & Avon
opened.
Volunteers from the Kennet &
Avon Canal Trust built the rep-
lica wharf in the two weeks be-
fore the Festival from scratch
using sheets of plywood and
timber. It was then painted to
give the appearance of being
stone built. Even one of the cranes was constructed from timber.
The wharf was named after Barry Green who died recently. Barry was one
of the Festival Directors, in-
volved with the Broads Au-
thority Committees and he
had been a former Eastern
Region Chairman.
The Grand Opening took
place at the wharf where
many historic boats were
moored alongside.
The wharf buildings were filled
with K & A displays and arte-
facts and some of children’s
WOW activities took place
there.
Peter and Jean Webb
Memories of Beale Park September 2010
The Inland Waterways Association is a non-profit distributing company limited by
guarantee. Registered in England no 612245 Registered as a charity no 212342
Registered Office: Island House, Moor Rd, Chesham, HP5 1WA. Phone 01494 783453
