CANAL and narrowboat fans flocked to Stourbridge’s annual boat rally at the weekend.

Thousands of visitors turned out for the popular Stourbridge Navigation Trust open weekend held at The Bonded Warehouse in Canal Street on October 15 and 16.

Stourbridge News:

The Stourbridge Arm Canal was awash with narrowboats and other attractions at the fun-filled family event included a display of vintage and classic vehicles including steam engines and organs, street stalls, children's rides and a large craft fair.

Stourbridge News:

Trust volunteers worked hard to get the historic grade II listed venue ship shape, for the 33rd annual event, after it suffered thousands of pounds worth of damage when it was hit hard by flash floods in June.

Stourbridge Navigation Trust treasurer Chris Dyche said: "It was an excellent weekend, with a very high turn out of visitors.

"This was certainly helped by the completion of our newly laid towpath, which encouraged many more local residents to walk along the canal into the site.

"We now look forward to next year's event, when we will be celebrating the 50th anniversary of the opening of the Stourbridge Canal mainline between Stourton and Brierley Hill."

Meanwhile, the Trust will be running its popular Santa Boat Trips taking place on December 10, 11, 17, 18 and 22.

Tickets for the festive boat trips cost £8 each for adults and children - and they include a present from Santa for the little ones and a hot drink and a mince pie for adults.

For more information or to book call Stourbridge Navigation Trust manager Heide Barratt on 01384 395216.