Droitwich Canals restoration going swimmingly says Worcestershire MEP

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Tue 19th May 2009

Liberal Democrat MEP for Worcestershire and the West Midlands Liz Lynne today visited Droitwich Junction Canal to witness first hand the restoration project currently being undertaken. Liz is a vice-president of the Droitwich Canals Trust.

Work is well underway on this major project to restore the Droitwich Barge and Junction Canals which is due to be completed by summer 2010 and will help create jobs and increase visitor footfall in the area. Liz was accompanied by local Liberal Democrat Councillor Margaret Rowley who is Chairman of Droitwich Canals Trust.

Speaking after the visit Liz said:

"Nearly seventy years after these canals were abandonmed and after over 35 years of local camopaigning, it is wonderful to see one of these unique canals from Britain's industrial past now being brought back to life.

"I would like to congratulate the Droitwich Canals Trust and all the volunteers and campaigners for the hard work that they have put into this fantastic project, which will provide an important boost for the local area.

"I will continue to support the good work that is being done and look forward to working closely with the Canals Trust to see what European funding may be available for the canal in the future."

Margaret Rowley commented: "Liz has made several visits to the Droitwich Canals, including hiring the Trust's trip boat Pamela May for a 90th birthday party for her mother. She was delighted to see the progress that has been made and is looking forward to hiring the Pamela May for a longer trip when the restoration is completed next year. We would like to thank her for her continued support."