THOUSANDS flocked to Dudley Canal Trust's popular narrowboat festival which took place over the weekend.

This year's festival, which took place on September 26, 27 and 28 at Parkhead Locks, Dudley, coincided with the Trust's 50th anniversary - but was tinged with sadness following the recent death of Canal Trust stalwart and chairman Vic Smallshire at the age of 69.

Steve Bingham, who is chairman of the Festival's organising committee, admitted: "Vic's death is a great loss to the Trust and he will be badly missed. He was well liked and well thought of.

"If it wasn't for Vic, then there probably wouldn't be a Black Country Museum today. It was his idea and he got the ball rolling. This year's festival was dedicated to his memory".

More than 70 narrowboats were at the festival and visitors were invited to take trips into Dudley Tunnel and see five-year-old shire horse Carolyn towing narrowboats up and down three locks plus a traditional coalboat.

Other attractions included a display of vintage and classic vehicles, demonstrations from Sandwell Model Boat Club, the Great Dudley Duck Race and a brass band.

Steve Bingham, who is also vice chairman of the Canal Trust, added: "The weather was excellent and dry, which always helps. The idea of the festival is to try and educate people as well as giving them a good time.

"We want to give people an insight into how the canal worked 60 years ago ranging from horse, to steam and then diesel, while giving visitors a sight and smell of the Black Country at the same time".