Water way to celebrate canals

WITH less than three weeks to go organisers of the Hayes Canal Festival are promising visitors a splashing good time for all the family – on and off the water.

Visitors will have plenty of opportunities to take to the water and explore the Grand Union Canal and all it offers on Sunday September 25. Canoes and stand-up paddleboards will cater for those with a sense of adventure, while free trips boats will allow others to sit back and relax as they cruise slowly along the waterway.

There will also be a chance to discover what lies beneath the water with fishing taster sessions led by licensed coaches. Shore-based there will be lots to keep you entertained including face-painting, balloon modelling, swing-boats, henna painting, papercraft, circus skills, canal side-walks and much more.

There will also be stalls, food and drinks, music from ‘Pimp My Jazz’ and ‘Bus Pass to Broadway’, as well as Indian dancing and Dhol drumming.

Jeannette Brookes, Canal & River Trust development and engagement manager, said: “I am really excited about the festival. Not only does it offer a great introduction to the waterways but it also provides a fun and enjoyable day out for all the family.”

The free event now in its third year runs from 11am to 4pm at High Point Village, Station Road, Hayes. It is supported by Hillingdon Community Trust, Southern Grove and Hurlington Property, and Botwell & Townfield Ward councillors.