Write a commentA veritable feast of fun is in the offing with Newry's Canal Fest organised by the Inland Waterways Association Newry & Portadown Branch.
Canal Fest Events take place in Newry week commencing Monday 18th – Saturday 23rd July 2011.
Celebrating the areas historic waterways the week long events will bring together a range of heritage, sporting and cultural events not to be missed!
The waterways will be a buzz of activity with the Bath Tub Race which takes places on Saturday 23rd July.
This event is open to the entire community of the greater Newry & Mourne area so come along and participate in a truly entertaining day of water based activities on the Canal.
The race commences at Needham Bridge beside the Quays Side Inn and finishes at the Savoy Bridge beside Grounded. It couldn’t be easier: crafts and propellers must be homemade; two people per craft and entrants must wear buoyancy aid which is essential.
Entry forms can be obtained by contacting Newry City Centre Management on Tel: 028 3025 0303 or alternatively visit the Newry IWAI on www.facebook.com for more details. .
Afterwards the day’s entertainment will be relocate to McClelland Park on Catherine Street for the presentation of trophies to the lucky winners, music, children’s entertainment and bbq.
Programme of Events Monday 18th – Friday 23rd July 2011
Presentation on the Visual Future for Newry Canal
Presentation on the sinking of the Alder
Quiz Night in the Canal Court with Aidan O’Rourke
Curry & Ships Night at Albert Basin
History of Newry Canal in Words, Images and Music
The Bath Tub Race on Newry Canal followed by an array of entertainment at McClelland Park
Programmes of events will be available shortly at various outlets across the greater Newry area or alternatively email: donna@newry.com or visit the Newry IWAI on www.facebook.com
Chairman of IWAI Newry and Portadown Paul McKeown commented "We are calling on the support of the entire community and to encourage as many people across the business community, voluntary and community groups, schools, sporting groups and families etc to come along and participate in our actives as we hope to build upon the success of last year’s event." Mr McKeown also took the opportunity to thank Mr Vincent Waddell, Managing Director of SureFrieght LTD for sponsoring the trophies and Newry & Mourne District Council for all their help and support in organising the event.
Mayor, Charlie Casey stated "The Council were delighted to be involved and welcome back the 2nd annual Bath Tub Race. Newry & Mourne District Council will provide logistical support to ensure the smooth running of this festival." He went on to congratulate the Inland Waterways Association – Newry & Portadown Branch and Newry City Centre Management for organising this festival which will be "a true celebration of the long historic history of Newry Canal and will be a wonderful kick start to the summer festivities." Mayor Casey hopes that the entire community of the greater Newry area will come along and support what will be a truly family fun day out in Newry City.
Last year’s entrants Pat Courtney and Graeme Finnegan stated that they both really enjoyed getting involved with Bath Tub Race last year. "With about 10 or more entrants, this year we will be working in partnership with the Inland Waterways Association and Newry City Centre Management to encourage as many local businesses within the area to come on board and join in the community spirit."
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