THE BASINGSTOKE CANAL

The Surrey & Hampshire Canal Society

Contents Attractions Index

The Pinkerton's Progress The Maiden Voyage (a report by Dieter Jebens, BC News 80, June 1978)

'JOHN PINKERTON' Introduction Public Cruises Charter Cruises A Charter Day Out Conditions of Hire Pinkerton's Progress TRIP BOAT REVENUE All proceeds go towards maintaining and improving the canal 1978 The first season (24 weeks) - nearly 10,000 passengers. Income = over £6,000 1985 Full season - over 14,000 passengers. Income = £14,000 1990 Income = £20,500 1999 Since 1978 nearly 200,000 passengers carried; total income over the period - more than £200,000 (in today's money)

Throughout the twelve years during which the Society has fought and worked to save the Basingstoke Canal, no previous victory or achievement can match the satisfaction of seeing the 'John Pinkerton' ready to sail on her maiden cruise. Lord Montague of Beulieu After the months of planning, debates, outspoken criticism, fears, set-backs and the tensions of the last few weeks of preparation, the scene at Colt Hill, Odiham, on 20th May 1977 was a complete contrast. In the stillness of a glorious spring morning, villagers and visitors lined the bank to admire the 'John Pinkerton' and wish her 'bon voyage'. Nobody present would fail to catch the atmosphere of charm, serenity and sense of a special occasion created by the splendid 67-foot narrowboat, her paint and brasswork gleaming in the brilliant sunshine. And as she slid gracefully from her moorings below Colt Hill Bridge and chugged quietly up the canal, the 'John Pinkerton' brought a new sense of life and purpose back to this long disused length of the navigation. To all those people who helped build her by their contributions in cash, kind or through their own efforts, the 'John Pinkerton' is a magnificent reward. She will also be a lasting and appropriate tribute to the volunteers who have and continue to spend much of their spare time restoring the waterway.

Crewing the trip boat The trip boat is entirely crewed and run by volunteers. New crew members are always welcome - and needed. Would you like to take part? [more]. 'JOHN PINKERTON' Introduction Public Cruises Charter Cruises A Charter Day Out Conditions of Hire Pinkerton's Progress

As a commercial venture, the trip boat is, without doubt, going to be a sound investment and an outstanding success. Forty bookings have already been made for the first two months of operation which will bring in £1.000 and the income from sales on board will double that figure. Less easy to quantify, but of equal importance, is the publicity value. To thousands of people, whether as passengers, bystanders or those who simply read about the boat, the 'John Pinkerton' is a practical demonstration of the Society's aim. In the words of our Chairman, speaking at the naming ceremony, Robin Higgs said, "The successful completion of the 'John Pinkerton' once more demonstrates the widespread support that exists for restoring the canal. She also symbolises the purpose for which the canal is being restored - as a valuable and much needed recreational amenity". BACK TO - Pinkerton's Progress Contents Attractions Index

Last updated March 2000