EA & lock staff

[Actionmat]

Why do so many canoeists use locks? Even without portage they're easy to pick up and carry, especially those modern mini ones. I came across 2 groups of canoeists who'd gone through on self service and when I eventually reached the lock, found that they'd left the gates wide open.

I have't seen any of them asked if they have a licence this year. I've been asked twice on this cruise. And much to my annoyance, waved in by a lock keeper, only for his volunteer to give me the signal to stop. When I asked why, he said it was because Salters Steamers were on their way and they're on a timetable!

I am grateful to the majority of volunteers who give their time, but I don't think that they're all ideally suited to the job.

 

[oldgit]

Think the kayakers have got bulk deal via the BCU ?

 

[Ramage]

If a kayaker or canoeist is a member of Canoe England (part of BCU), their membership card covers registration for EA and CART waters.

 

[Actionmat]

I heard no ask for evidence of any of the above.

 

[SnowCat]

Most kayakists and canoeists carry their cards (ie licences) on themselves and will show them to the lock keepers. Many lock keepers recognise their frequent users, be they motorboaters, kayakists, canoeists, rowing clubs.....

 

[TrueBlue]

Is it not that canoeists' licence is issued on the basis of non lock use???

 

[boatone]

Is it not that canoeists' licence is issued on the basis of non lock use???

Nope, they are treated as unpowered craft along with rowers, paddle boards etc.