Rail and Canal meet for
National Community Rail Weekend

The South Pennines Rail Partnership and Huddersfield Canal Society are hosting 2 guided walks along the Huddersfield Narrow Canal between Stalybridge and Greenfield. The events take place on the 17th and 18th May, as part of the National Community Rail Weekend. Community Rail weekend celebrates the role that rural railways play in the local community. This year in the South Pennines, there will be a series of events run that will encourage people to explore the area (all accessible by train). There will be free guided walks, music trains, music festivals and a film!

The South Pennines Rail Partnership was established to provide a sub regional link between rail routes in the region, and promote community involvement with three lines: the Penistone Line, the Huddersfield to Manchester Victoria Line, and the CalderVale line. Rowena Chantler, Community Rail Officer for the partnership has organised the guided walks in conjunction with the Huddersfield Canal Society to promote the service available on the Huddersfield to Manchester Victoria line, and to promote sustainable tourism by encouraging people to use public transport to visit the area. For information on other events being held in the South Pennines on Community Rail Weekend, please see www.southpenninesrail.co.uk

Said Rowena ‘These events give people an ideal opportunity to use the train to explore their local waterway’.

Huddersfield Canal Society Administrator, Dr Bob Gough, who will be leading the walks, has recently completed a new towpath guide to the Huddersfield Narrow Canal!

Huddersfield Canal Society first published a guide in 1981 and since the Narrow was re-opened to full navigation in 2001 a new version has been long overdue.
With a foreword by British Waterways Chief Executive Robin Evans, the new 90 page guide has over 500 full colour photographs and detailed maps covering the length of the Narrow. The financing of the guide has been subsidised by the Society as part of its aim to promote the canal for the enjoyment of all.

Said Dr Gough ‘The 8km walk from Stalybridge to Greenfield will be great , not only dramatic pennine scenery but many  fascinating items of canal history to see as well’

The walks commence from Stalybridge Railway Station, and finish at Greenfield Railway Station. For information on start times, trains to catch and to book a place on these walks ring Rowena on 07912 753817. Please note that places are limited, and booking is essential.