Pals of canal tragedy man call for safer waterways
FRIENDS of a young man found dead in a canal six days after going missing have launched a campaign to make waterways safer.
More than 10,000 people have already backed the call for CCTV and railings to be installed around canals following the death of Caspar Blackburn this month.
The 22-year-old’s body was discovered in the Bridgewater Canal in Sale on Saturday morning, almost a week after he disappeared following a night out with friends.
Described as an ‘amazing young man’ by those who knew him, pals are determined to prevent any further tragedies from occurring.
A petition, set up by friend Paris Lee, reads: “A friend of ours was found in the canal last week at just 22 years old. He was missing for six days before he was found. We believe that if CCTV was there we would have found him quicker and if there were railings and street lighting he may never have fallen in. We would like to raise awareness due to many people being found in the canal as it is a very dangerous place.”
Georgina Warner, from Macclesfield, said: “Totally agree, would be much safer. Shame it takes such tragic circumstances to make a difference.”
Danny Little added: “Casper was a good friend of mine and to prevent any more family or friends suffering this tragic accident there needs to be change.”
Lisa Keelan posted: “Lighting most definitely needs to be installed along the full canal to prevent any further devastating tragedies happening in the future.”
David Godfrey added: “I walk down the canal every day to work and it really isn’t safe, these measures need to be brought in.”
A spokeswoman for Trafford council said: “It has been devastating to hear the tragic news about Casper Blackburn. The council will continue to work with our partners in the Safer Trafford Partnership, including Greater Manchester Police, to consider all the options following this terrible tragedy.”
Caspar had been enjoying a night with friends at the Slug and Lettuce Waterside in Sale on Sunday, October 1. He was last seen at around 2am.
He had been sitting on a bench outside the pub with pals, but did not go back inside with the group.
Within hours of his body being discovered, floral tributes lined the banks of the canal. A message left by one mourner said: “Caspar, you were an amazing young man and the best friend to Robson. We will miss you deeply and will forever hold you close in our thoughts and hearts.”
A fundraising page set up in his memory to raise funds for his funeral has also raised £7,000.
To sign the petition, visit www. change.org/p/council-cctv-andrailings-for-canals.