Following a period of in-activity due to Trust commitments elsewhere, restoration and maintenance of the Yarkhill section recommenced in December 2005. A team of volunteers who, meet at least weekly, have notched up well over 500 work parties under the guidance of team leader Chris High.

 

The Yarkhill team, assisted by the Waterways Recovery Group on several occasions, have re-claimed the canal towpath, bed and banks. Work continues with pulling tree-stumps from the canal banks, keeping vegetation in the canal under control and general maintenance of mowing and strimming. The towpath is now a pleasant walk attracting an ever increasing number of walkers.

 

Open Days are held at Yarkhill in August each year, and are an opportunity for the volunteers to show their achievements to the wider public. In 2008, restoration work saw the installation of a replica milestone at Yarkhill. This event was marked by a formal ceremony during the Open Day on the site in August.

 

Future intentions
To profile and seal the canal bed, banks and towpath so as to regain the original form. To find and seal any remaining leaks. To find a reliable source of water and return the Yarkhill stretch permanently to water.