The Huddlesford Heritage Gathering has once again successfully shone a spotlight on the vital restoration work of the Lichfield & Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust (LHCRT). The biennial event, a popular fixture in the local calendar, brought together historic boats, classic car enthusiasts, floating traders, and live music, all powered by the dedication of volunteers.
The spirit of the event proved strong, even with challenges from the summer’s dry weather. With low water levels restricting some historic boats from attending, it was a test of resilience. However, the event’s organisers ensured the show went on, with land traders and classic cars sticking by the gathering, and boat trips continuing to delight visitors.
The gathering provides essential funds and awareness for the Trust, whose progress is accelerating across the restoration route. Carole Mills, Chair of the LHCRT, explained that the volunteers are seeing their hard work pay off across the district.
We’ve got a great team of volunteers and we’re making a real difference here in Lichfield
A prime example is the Ecology Park at Darnford Moors, which has become a hugely popular spot for walkers, cyclists, and wildlife lovers. The kilometre-long stretch is a little taste of what the fully restored canal will offer. Furthermore, massive strides are being made at the Tamworth Road section, which is expected to be “in water” and finished by this time next year.
The efforts of the Trust are now more focused than ever, with a new strategic plan that has broken the huge task of restoration into manageable chunks. As Carole Mills commented, this allows the Trust to make “faster, more tangible progress,” which is highly motivating for the volunteer workforce.
The success of the Huddlesford Gathering itself is a direct result of volunteer effort, something that Christine Howles, Communications and Marketing Trustee for the LHCRT, knows well.
The sheer commitment of the public is also evident in the financing of key restoration projects. The new lift bridge, which is due to be installed in October, was totally crowd-funded by public donations, showcasing the enormous support the Trust receives
The Gathering is not only a celebration — it’s also a vital fundraiser for Lichfield & Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust (LHCRT), supporting our work to restore the Lichfield Canal. The event takes place at Huddlesford Junction, one end of the canal route, which will be reconnected all the way to Brownhills. Every visitor, volunteer, and stallholder helps bring that vision closer to reality. – Christine Howles
However, more help is always needed. While the ground teams welcome anyone keen on “a bit of weeding,” the Trust particularly requires people for their events team to help with setting up gazebos, selling merchandise, and generally assisting with the smooth running of these vital fundraising days.
With work on the Cricket Lane bridge due to commence in early 2026, and continuous progress being made on various phases, the vision of a fully restored Lichfield and Hatherton Canal is closer than ever.
The Huddlesford Heritage Gathering is held every two years, with the next one scheduled for 20-21 September 2025. It is an event truly dedicated to celebrating the pure love of the waterways.
