Members only
Barge Trips 2007 Report
It has been another successful year, and that is despite it being the wettest period since we started the barge trips eleven years ago.
We again used the boat called 'Hannah', owned by The Bruce Trust, fitted with a “joy stick” steering facility, which we financed a few years ago, to enable those who are not strong enough to use the tiller to steer the Barge.
20 different groups (one cancelled on the day due to exceptionally poor weather) experienced the challenge of the locks and steering, while enjoying the relaxing pace of the barge and beauty of the countryside.
Over the three weeks we cover 170+ miles, opening & closing 750 lock gates and swing bridges. Our guest groups ranged from profoundly disabled children to disadvantaged children through to elderly disabled with their carers, helpers, family members or friends. Almost 200 people benefited from the trips this year.
Rotarians, their family and friends contributed over 1,000 man and woman hours to ensure the safe and friendly passage of the barge. Some are retired but many took part of their annual leave or gave up their week-ends to help out. Such is the joy that we get out of it, the wise ones plan and volunteer early to again experience the challenge and satisfaction of helping others.
Rotarian John May
August 2007
Quotes from some guests following their day on the Barge:
Kingfisher School “We had a lovely time steering the boat and opening and closing the lock gates. We have lots of photographs to talk about, and remind us of a great day.”
Vale of White Horse PHaB club “Everyone asked me to thank you all, they all got a chance to make some contribution to the day, either working the locks, or steering the vessel or simply enjoying the relaxing trip. They enjoyed themselves so much we all ignored the rain we had towards the end of the journey. The first timers were very impressed and hope to join us again in 2008, they all said what a brilliant time they had.”
South & Vale Carers “From what I hear it was a resounding success with the young people being very keen to do it all over again immediately, including all the locks.”
Douglas House “Each member seemed to really enjoy themselves and even the least able were able to respond in a cheerful way as they were being taken along the canal in the barge.”
Oxford Sailability “All our group enjoyed it, and several did not realise we would be so tired at the end of the day – that is always a good sign.”