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Banbury has a significant place in the history of canals, most notably for being the location of Tooley’s boatyard and its association with canal restoration campaigner LTC (Tom) Rolt. However, the relationship between town and canal has not always been easy. Join me today, as we explore the town through the eyes of Temple-Thurston, Rolt, and Pearson, from the comfort of a coffeeshop window seat on a rainy Saturday afternoon.   

Journal entry:

7th May, Saturday

"Another early start.
 At least it is now beginning to get light when Donna leaves for work,
 Chalky whites and greys leaching the darkness and stars from the night. 

A busy day lies ahead. One from which I shrink. 
 And so I make another cup of tea and sit on the stern in the chill of first dawn.

The swans are still asleep. The cob tucked beside his mate on the nest.
 A breeze ruffles the deep umber water.
 A mallard swims over. 
 Chuckling to me, he eyes me with curiosity and caution.
 A swallow swims the air above the water and then alights on a boat's aerial. 

I stare at nothing. Hear nothing. Lost on the still waters of the mind.
 I want to hold this fragile moment forever, drink deeply from it,
 But I don't know how."

 Episode Information:

You can find out more about the history and current workings of Tooley’s Boat Yard at: Tooley’s Boatyard Trust. 

In this episode I cite or read short extracts from:

Michael Pearson (2003) Pearson’s Canal Companion: Oxford and Grand Union, published by Central Waterways Supplies.

L.T.C. Rolt (1944) Narrow Boat, first published by Eyre and Spottiswoode

E. Temple Thurston (1911) The Flower of Gloster, published by William Norgate.

Linda Aubry’s narrowboat themed fabric designs

Linda’s fabric designs, many of which have been inspired by traditional narrowboat canal art, including her toile designs, can be seen on her Spoonflower site: Designs by orangecookie. 

General Detai

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