Big Splash Campaign continues
VOLUNTEER and charitable organisations play a major role in sustaining and maintaining Scotland’s canal network.
Practical work includes tree lopping, painting and towpath maintenance. The Big Splash is a fundraising appeal to support these groups, all of which had to cease activities during lockdown.
So far some £3720 has been pledged. Many of these organisations offer boat trips providing access to the canal to people who otherwise wouldn’t be able to gain access. In turn, these volunteer-led groups support other community organisations and social enterprises.
Currently 11 organisations are taking part in The Big Splash. Some look after community facilities, tearooms and tourist attractions, maintain and hire out self-drive day boats and encourage people to cycle and walk the towpaths. Volunteers organise and run canal festivals and are passionate about providing opportunities for everyone to take part in activities on and alongside the canals.
None of this would be possible without the commitment of the volunteer and charitable organisations involved.
Ronnie Rusack, chairman of Scottish Waterways for All, said: “The B i g Splash shines the spotlight on the organisations who have shown real commitment and dedication to the canal network in Scotland. It is only right that their efforts are supported.”
Information about all the participating organisations is available on scv-awards.co.uk
Pick your favourite group and your donation will go direct to them. Quoting Pete Waterman, who took part in Channel 5’s Celebrity Britain by Barge: “One has to remember that the existing of the Forth & Clyde and the Union canals today is without doubt down to the enthusiasm and hard work
of the volunteers.”