Braunston historic rally to miss second year

HOPES that the Braunston Historic Narrowboat Rally and Canal Festival would be the first major boating event of 2021 have been dashed.

Organiser Tim Coghlan has reluctantly decided to postpone until 2022 due to insurmountable problems trying to arrange an event so soon after social distancing restrictions are due to be lifted on June 21.

The rally had been due to take place over the weekend of June 26-27. “At first I thought there was room for manoeuvre but it is very tight and a lot of the volunteers who help at the rally don’t want to come and mix in a social gathering such as this so soon,” Tim explained. “We are now looking forward and everyone is very keen to hold the rally in June 2022. It provides an essential focal point for those involved with the preservation of these historic boats.”