Narrowboat lowered into river for 2025 trips
The new narrowboat took its first voyage up the river in the sunshine
- Published
A new boat, which will be used for passenger trips on the river in Sleaford, has been lowered into place.
The new narrowboat was lowered into the river by a specialist team using a crane on Tuesday.
Chris Hayes, chair of the Sleaford Navigation Trust, said she was "relieved, amazed and delighted" to see the boat in the river.
The boat will be used for passenger trips on the River Slea between The Hub and Cogglesford Mill in 2025.
Hauiliers said getting the boat into the water and avoiding overhead power lines was "a bit of a test"
The project has cost £130,000 and has been funded by the government's UK Shared Prosperity Fund, external.
The money has paid for the new boat, its furnishings and work needed to make the river more navigable.
Ms Hayes said: "It's been a long time we've been trying to do this."
"It will give us a chance to show off what the river's like, and also a bit of the heritage of the navigation."
"It brought all kinds of prosperity, in terms of bringing coal in for industry and also allowing people locally to sell corn in a wider market. So it was very beneficial, and now it will be again."
Kevin Ellison, picture with his mascot Ralph, hoisted the boat into position
The operation to lower the boat into the river was a complex one, needing a specialist team operating a large crane.
Haulage contractor Kevin Ellison said: "It's been a bit of a test."
"We've had to use extra large crane footpads to make sure we're not collapsing the pavements."
Onlookers applauded as the boat was lowered into the river.
"Fantastic. It's great to see it here today," councillor Richard Wright, leader of North Kesteven Council, said.
"I think it's very good value for money because this is about improving communities. Just £130,000 brings a trip boat which will be here for many years and bring enjoyment for lots of people," he added.
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