Festival navigates canal’s glorious past

PUTTING on a show . . . Oldham Theatre Workshop performs “Reflections from the Past” to help celebrate the canal anniversary

AN amazing 200 years of the Huddersfield Narrow Canal was celebrated with a grandstand theatrical performance.

Professional actors, budding thespians and schoolchildren united at Diggle Tip for the bicentennial.

The performers from Oldham Theatre Workshop brought to life some of the characters who have influenced, and been influenced by the canal over the years.

The outdoor production was one of many highlights at yesterday’s festival — which has been a year in the making.

Children auditioned at a theatre workshop-led summer school at Diggle Primary where children also helped with making props and costumes.

The Huddersfield Narrow Canal runs through Saddleworth, connecting Ashton and Huddersfield.

At its centre lies the unique Stanedge Tunnel — the longest, highest and deepest canal tunnel in the country.

British Waterways ran boat trips into the tunnel throughout the day.

Oldham Mayor, Councillor Richard Knowles, opened the festival, organised by Huddersfield Canal Society and supported by Oldham Council.

Councillor Dave Hibbert, Cabinet member for housing, transport and regeneration, said: “This event was a fantastic opportunity for the people of Oldham to celebrate and re-discover the Huddersfield Narrow Canal and enjoy the many activities this historic waterway has to offer.”

Just before the end of the Second World War, the construction of a double railway tunnel saw the canal abandoned after 140 years of operation.

After 27 years of campaigning by the society, the Prince of Wales re-opened the canal after extensive restoration.

The festival also saw a traditional wood bodger demonstration and live music by Diggle Band.