Express & Star

Stourbridge canal capers are a cut above

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From canal boats to steaming traction engines and servings of ales to crunchy pork cracklings - the history of the Black Country was showcased by Stourbridge Navigation Trust.

Hundreds of people indulged in the region's culture at the trust's 31st annual open weekend next to the Bonded Warehouse in Canal Street, Stourbridge.

On both Saturday and Sunday, more than 100 canal boats were moored in the Stourbridge Extension Canal for visitors to see.

From pleasure boats to cargo boats, people were able to learn about their history as well as information on the canals from the owners.

Visitors also took advantage of canal boat trips, including Dudley borough Mayor Margaret Aston.

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As well as the narrow boats, there were displays of traction engines, classic cars and fairground organs.

A craft fair was also held, plus a bar was on site with a cafe inside the Bonded Warehouse selling warm soups and ploughmans.

Cliff Sherwood had his cargo boat, called the Bellatrix, on show. The boat was built in 1835 in Northwich, Cheshire, but was later used to cargo coal for the Grand Union Canal Company.

Mr Sherwood, who is from Wall Heath, purchased the boat 49 years ago. He uses it to travel the country's canals, going as far as London.

He said: "It's a pleasure coming to events like this and seeing old friends as well as meeting new ones."

Keith Allington was at the show, displaying a 1972 Mini Cooper. Mr Allington, aged 53, of Stourbridge Road, Kidderminster, has owned 25 of the cars.

He said: "They are the best cars in the world, and they were built just round the corner in Longbridge.

"I find my love for them is shared when I come to events like this."[gallery order="DESC"]