All aboard ice-breaker Moonraker!

BREAKING through the canal ice, the narrow boat Pennine Moonraker

Saddleworth commuters are still knee-deep in the stuff — but, despite horrendous conditions, one form of transport cuts a serene path through the winter chaos.

Boatman John Lund steered hundreds of passengers on stimulating trips on his 70-foot narrow boat, Pennine Moonraker, along the Huddersfield Canal from his base at Uppermill.

And the 4mph journey through snow-laden countryside gave him time to take these stunning picture postcard images — a unique view of the area.

The well-equipped craft, which was extensively refurbished 13 years ago, ran a series of Yuletide trips along the Huddersfield Narrow Canal.

John said: “It was tough going and the canal was under thick ice in parts.

“But I was determined visitors would not lose out on some enjoyment to brighten up their Christmas.”

John used his smaller boat, Dizzy, as an icebreaker and attached it to the bows of the Pennine Moonraker and cut a path through the ice-glazed canal.

“I was up just after dawn, clearing snow off the narrowboat itself and making sure everything was ship-shape for visitors.

“They were delighted with the trips. The canal took on a unique mantle in the snow and although some parts were completely solid with ice I did complete all the trips. Passengers said it was a fabulous experience and the stunning scenery and hot drinks and snacks on board made up for the bad weather.

“It was good to see that my little craft could get through and give passengers an exciting journey where Eurostar failed,” he quipped.