A PROJECT to restore a historic crane in Worcester, along the River Severn, is well under way.
The project is being carried out by the Canal and River Trust at Diglis Island.
Works have seen repairs made to the cab and the motor of a Scotch Derrick crane which has been a distinctive feature on this section of the river for over 70 years.
Visitors will be able to discover more about the crane’s role on the manmade island in the middle of Britain’s longest river through new interpretation boards.
Built by Butters Brothers in Glasgow, the crane spent time at Cardiff Docks before it moved to Diglis Island during the 1950s, serving a vital role in lifting heavy loads, including lock gates and timber beams to and from boats on the Severn.
In over 60 years it had just four operators and remained in use until 2005.
It has been listed on Worcester City Council’s local list of heritage assets, it still stands at Diglis as a local landmark.
Morgan Cowles, heritage and environment team manager at Canal and River Trust said: “The restoration of the crane cab is part of a long-term project to conserve this magnificent example of our industrial heritage, to secure it for the future and to enable people to appreciate and understand the role it has had in the history of Diglis Island.
“Along the way we’ve been supported by many people whose passion for our heritage has played a part in helping to make this restoration happen, including Joe Underhill, who first worked on the crane when he was 17 and is still involved today.
“The crane is a widely recognised landmark in this part of Worcester, and this work will ensure its historic importance and presence continues to stand out for decades to come.”
