Waterways legends at Historic Narrowboat Rally.
Nestled in the heart of England, lies the picturesque village of Braunston. For waterways folk, Braunston marina is an important hub, located where the Grand Union and Oxford canals come together. Once a year though, the working buzz transforms into a carnival atmosphere, as Braunston holds its Historic Narrowboat Rally. And this year, waterways royalty were on hand to open the event. Actors Tim West and Prunella Scales, of Channel 4’s Great Canal Journeys.
My mate Nick was showing his working boat, a beautiful heritage coal carrier. Moored alongside him, the storytelling boat had a steady stream of customers. There was so much to see and photograph. I managed to get myself into the right place at the right time to capture all they key highlights. As always, there was a charity cheque presentation and this year turned out to be a double celebration. The brass band played and the crowd sang to wish Prunella Scales a very Happy Birthday. Not a bad way to spend your 90th! She clearly enjoyed the whole thing enormously and to be fair everyone else had a brilliant day too. Let’s hope this last, lovely weekend in June sets the tone for some sunshine and simple pleasures through the summer.
Tags: BraunstonBraunston Historic Narrowboat RallyChannel 4Grand Union CanalGreat Canal JourneysOxford CanalPrunella ScalesTimothy WestTracey Welch Photography