Refurbished community boat is given a celebratory launch - The Worcester Observer
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Refurbished community boat is given a celebratory launch

THE WORCESTER-Birmingham and Droitwich Canals Society has unveiled its new-look community narrowboat ‘Cecilia’.

The refurbishment included a new floor and seating, a new engine and a fresh coat of paint.

To launch Cecilia on her maiden voyage, the society held a Champagne reception at Alvechurch Marina just after she returned from the printshop in Evesham.

The £25,000 refurbishment was completed this month by a team of volunteers.




Leader of Alvechurch Parish Council, Coun Marc Worrall said: “It’s a great privilege and pleasure of mine to be invited to the launch of this fabulous narrowboat.

“Now that she’s back home, over the coming months she will give a great deal of pleasure for many people that have never had the opportunity to enjoy the inlands waterways – we are privileged to have in this parish.”


Chairman of Birmingham and Droitwich Canals Society, David Wheeler, added: “It warms my heart to see Cecilia back in Alvechurch and being used as she should be.

“Well done to everyone who was a part of the restoration and the Cecilia volunteers who made this happen.”

‘Cecilia’ is a community narrowboat available for any community project to book for half and full-day boat trips along the Worcester and Birmingham Canal.

The boat is usually moored very close to Alvechurch Station by Bridge 60.

She is fully crewed by a small team of volunteers for anyone to use.

Visit wbdcs.org.uk or email [email protected] for more information.