Couple stranded on canal as heat closes bridge

Michael Smith and Linda Leetham have been stuck in Keadby Lock since Tuesday

A couple are stuck on their narrowboat in a Lincolnshire lock after high temperatures forced engineers to close a bridge.

Michael Smith, 64, and Linda Leetham, 61, from Thorne, South Yorkshire, arrived at Stainforth and Keadby Canal on Tuesday but found the Vazon Sliding Railway Bridge in Keadby, near Scunthorpe, had been closed.

A Network Rail spokesperson apologised for the disruption, adding the bridge was "operating with temperature restrictions following recent equipment issues".

The spokesperson added it would reopen once temperatures dropped to 16C (60F) or below.

Mr Smith and his partner were travelling on their 67ft (20m) narrowboat up the River Trent from Chesterfield Canal to their moorings in Thorne when they came to a halt.

"We can get off the boat, we can walk down to Keadby, there's a couple of little shops. So we're alright for the basics like bread and milk," said Mr Smith.

The Keadby bridge is the only one of its kind in the UK, according to Network Rail

In February last year, work was finished to strengthen the walls and replace the rails and track. But in August that year, it had to close again after a fault was found.

The Network Rail spokesperson said: "While the structural abutment works completed in 2024 have prevented further settlement and reduced vibration, the bridge continues to face challenges with its mechanical equipment and temperature sensitivity.

"The more recent works have focused on addressing issues with the rolling wheels and removing temporary rolling plates."

The original sliding bridge dates to the 1860s but was adapted in 1925

Mr Smith said he usually avoids the bridge due to its frequent problems but was left with no choice as most Pennine canals were closed due to low water.

"We've now moved on [the boat] and our travel options are getting smaller literally by the week," he said.

"The canal users are suffering more than anybody else."

A spokesperson for the Canals and Rivers Trust said they have had to close some locks to boats due to the "effects of the drought and prolonged dry weather".

"We need sustained rain to top up the reservoirs that feed the canals. But, as soon as water levels allow, we'll get them back open for boating.

"We know how frustrating navigation restrictions are and we're grateful to boaters for their support," the spokesperson added.

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