The team of volunteers are working in partnership with the Canal & River Trust to repair, tidy and lay fresh stone along the Mossley stretch of the Huddersfield Narrow Canal. Every week up to four volunteers from Emmaus take part in the maintenance tasks and since the start of the year more than 375 meters of towpath have been improved.
“We’re improving the towpath for all the walkers, bikers, dog walkers, wheel chair users and parents with push chairs. The thing I enjoy the most is seeing the benefit the work gives to local people.” Pete, one of the canal volunteers and a companion of Emmaus Mossley
Emmaus Mossley supports 26 companions (formerly homeless people) by providing them with a home and work in a community setting. The concept of solidarity, getting involved in volunteering and helping others less fortunate than yourself, is a central ethos of Emmaus and a motivation for the companions completing the canal improvement work.
“The Canal & River Trust are really grateful to the volunteers from Emmaus who are massively improving the canal towpath for the benefit of all users. Lots of local people have been commenting on how much better it is and that’s all thanks to the hard work that’s been put in.” Terry Sigsworth, Canal Operative from the Canal & River Trust
Over 60 tonnes of new stone supplied by the Canal & River Trust has been wheel-barrowed and laid into position along the towpath by the Emmaus volunteers. This year the team are aiming to complete canal towpath improvements down to the entrance of Scout Tunnel.
To find out more or support Emmaus Mossley head to www.emmaus.org.uk/mossley. If you would like to get involved or donate an item, please call 01457 838608 or visit the store at Longlands Mill, Queen Street, Mossley OL5 9AH.