Nick Thomas-Symonds joined MPs, peers, and representatives from the Canal & River Trust to celebrate the charity’s tenth anniversary and to learn more about its work in Torfaen.
The Canal & River Trust protects and preserves more than 2,000 miles of waterways across England and Wales – a network that is used by millions of people. Their network includes the Mon and Brecon Canal which runs through Torfaen.
The Torfaen MP took the opportunity to discuss the work of the Bridge 46 to Five Locks Canal Group with the Canal and River Trust. The group is run by local volunteers with the aim of raising awareness of the Mon and Brecon Canal, to promote its use, and to preserve its place within Torfaen’s industrial history and heritage.
Under the Trust’s stewardship, canals across England and Wales now have more boats than ever before and are used by more people than at any time in history. The Trust brings vital green and blue space to the doorstep of millions of people in towns and cities where access to this space is vital for improving community wellbeing and to tackle health inequalities.
Speaking about the reception, Nick Thomas-Symonds said: “It was great to join the Canal & River Trust to celebrate the nation’s waterways on their tenth anniversary, and to learn more about the amazing work they are doing locally here in Torfaen.
The Mon and Brecon Canal is a fantastic local asset, and I know so many people who use it for the benefit of their physical and mental health.
I was delighted to get a chance to talk to the Canal and River Trust about the local Bridge 46 to Five Locks Canal Group, and I thank them for all the work they do in promoting and preserving this wonderful resource on our doorstep.”
Mark Sullivan of the Bridge 46 to Five Locks Canal Group said: “It is fantastic that local MP Nick Thomas-Symonds got to talk to representatives from the Canal & River Trust at their 10th anniversary celebration about the work of Bridge 46 to Five Locks Canal Group.
By engaging with the Canal & River Trust, Monmouthshire Brecon Abergavenny Canal Trust, and Torfaen Council, we can make our waterways and canals even better. Over the past two years, people have sought refuge along the towpath for their own health and well-being, with many exploring this beautiful green corridor for the first time.
Bridge 46 to Five Locks Canal Group hold events and work parties, which are advertised on our Facebook page. If you would like to get involved, please visit our page, look up the Canal & River Trust, Monmouthshire Brecon Abergavenny Canal Trust (MBACT) or Torfaen Canal Volunteer Group.
We thank Nick Thomas-Symonds for his continued support of this group and his efforts in raising awareness of the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal within Torfaen”.
