Brian Jones

Many thanks for your reply and many thanks to others for their replies. I won't be using the can(s). I just want it/them to be expertly painted in the traditional manner. I'll start looking.

Does anybody know where I can find a new galvanised water can, ie suitable for painting?

Well, I've just spoken to Margaret. What a nice lady. Many thanks for your pointer. And thankyou others for your responses. Yesterday I went on a pilgrimage, inspired by Tom Rolt's "Narrow Boat". To Napton, including a very good lunch at "The Folly", and Braunston. I was surprised by how many boats were moored and locking, and by how many had painted cans and other articles. I enjoyed helping people through the locks. I must have a painted can. Margaret, I'll be in touch. It is sad in a way that the "Bull and Butcher" name was lost to Napton. But the building survives and there is a photo of the original by the bar. Thanks, again. Brian

I saw a couple of cans today, very nicely decorated by "Margaret of Middlewich", according to their owner. But who is she and where can I find her? Google no help.