Warning as canal closures ignored

Walkers are putting their lives at risk by ignoring warning signs put up by workers repairing part of the Stourbridge canal which collapsed in heavy storms.

British Waterways staff are at the breach in Primrose Hill, between Stourton and Stourbridge.

Walkers and cyclists are using the closed towpath - even pushing past British Waterways staff who warn them it may be dangerous, it is claimed. When the breach occurred on September 7, there were issues with youngsters scaling fencing and damaging barges.

Carol Hutchings, aged 65, whose Black Country Narrowboats business in Prestwood Drive, is nearby, said most problems were caused by older people and families.

She said: "Right opposite our boatyard a cyclist came and a British Waterways man stood in front of him and told him it was closed - he just manoeuvred his bike around him and carried on."

British Waterway's communications manager Nicky Lister said the disruptions were prolonging the work and people were putting themselves in danger.