A Tameside-based charity is looking forward to saying a heartfelt “thank you” to NHS workers following a £10,000 grant from the National Lottery.

The Wooden Canal Boat Society, whose 107-year-old boat Hazel is based at Portland Basin in Ashton, will be using the funding to take some of the people who kept the NHS going throughout the Covid pandemic on much needed Wellbeing trips completely free of charge.

Hazel’s skipper Chris Leah explained why they had applied for the lottery funding:

“During lockdown, Wooden Canal Boat Society members found it frustrating that they have been unable to operate their Wellbeing boat “Hazel” at a time when record numbers of people have needed mental wellbeing support.

“But as restrictions have lifted, thought has been given to how the boat can be of most benefit.

“When we were awarded the £10,000 National Lottery ‘Awards for All’ grant we knew we could use it to enable “Hazel” to carry on with her work of providing leisure time on the waterways, starting with giving NHS and care workers, who have been adversely affected by the crisis, time afloat and a small oasis of calm and tranquillity in their stressful lives.”

Anyone who would like to book some time aboard Hazel, travelling the canals of the North West can contact The WCBS on 07860 944 969 or at hazelthewellbeingboat@gmail.com

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