Major Stourbridge event saved despite freak floods

9:22am Thursday 2nd October 2008

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A MAJOR Stourbridge event will go ahead despite freak floods which left the venue under several feet of water.

Just three weeks ago Stourbridge Navigation Trust was counting the cost of a deluge which swamped their headquarters causing thousands of pounds worth of damage at the Bonded Warehouse in Canal Street, as both the River Stour and the canal burst their banks.

The Trust’s annual open weekend at the site was in jeopardy after flooding during storms on September 6 but, following a massive effort from boating enthusiasts, the event was saved.

Chris Dyche, from Stourbridge Navigation Trust, said: “We have had a terrible mess to clean up in Canal Street following the flooding last month, which also caused the breach in the canal.

“However 2008 marks the open weekend’s 25th anniversary and we are determined that it will go ahead.

“This is a very popular local event, providing an excellent weekend of entertainment.”

The Trust receives no external income and the open weekend provides a vital funding lifeline.

Chris said: “The event is important to keep the profile of the Trust up, we only spend what we earn and the show must go on.”

During the storms the Stourbridge canal bank burst, causing millions of gallons of water to escape and the canal remains closed near Wordsley while repairs are carried out.

The closure means narrowboat access to the Bonded Warehouse is limited - which will cut the number of boats able to attend the event by half to around 50.

Despite the problems, the open weekend still has much to attract visitors including a boat rally, display of classic and vintage vehicles, fair ground organs, children’s rides, trade stalls, boat trips to Wordsley and a craft fair.

The open weekend runs for two-days at the Bonded Warehouse from Saturday October 18, entrance is free.