'These eight people have a far-reaching task ahead in helping to shape the waterways for the future. We wish them fair cruising'

摘要

One of the great things about this country is that we have a wonderful array of characters in all walks of life. Plenty enliven the waterways and, indeed, many people in general think of the world of the waterways as somewhat idiosyncratic, although we of course know better. But sometimes there are characters who really do stand out and Richard Williams, the man who has built the narrowboat 'U-boat' moored on the Leeds & Liverpool (see page 48) is certainly one of them. He had an idea, discovered that it wouldn't work then found a way of turning it into reality and, in the process, brought something to the canals that can't help but raise a smile.