Canal festival was a big hit

Folk on the Water took place along the Ring canal network between Leamington and Rugby in the summer, stopping at venues including Leamington’s Assembly, The Grand Union and Newbold Comyn Arms, the Two Boats in Long Itchington and The Bridge at Napton.

All of the concerts were free with donations amounting to £1,600 being collected for Zoe’s Place Baby Hospice in Coventry.

The festival’s founder and organiser, Dutch Van Spall, said: “This started out as a nice idea for a few friends to enjoy live music in a great setting. It caught the interest of musicians and the public alike and has continued to grow each year. It also gives us the opportunity to continue spreading the word about Zoe’s Place and I would like to thank everybody for their splendid generosity and support.

“This year we’ve been able to welcome aboard nine artists. Next year the festival will take place between June 20 to July 6 and any acts wishing to take part should visit our Facebook page facebook.com/folkonthewater.”

The crew and artists lived onboard the Samuel James narrowboat and travelled to each of the venues along Warwickshire’s Grand Union canal.

Warwick company Kate Boats the festival’s sponsor - has donated the use of the narrowboat each year since the first Folk on the Water launched in 2009.

Since then the festival has raised more than £4,000 for chosen charities.

Rebecca Howes, manager of Kate Boats, said: “We are extremely pleased to support the festival and such an amazing and worthy charity. What a fabulous concept it is.”

For more information about the festival visit www.folkonthewater.com or for more about Kate Boats visit www.kateboats.co.uk