SimonTaylor

Neither, not now or every. I’m just a boater who doesn’t think fondly of those who give people the impression we are all self-entitled grumps who can’t simply say “no thank you today, but I appreciate the offer” when encountering volunteers.

**duplicate in error - mods please delete**

What does this have to do with the question asked Nick? You seem to have a dislike of volunteers and try twist any thread you can into having a pop at them. I suspect for most it’s not a case of it being their “playground”, but rather them giving up their free time to make a difference in their community. Those litter picking, vegetation clearing or painting help make the area look more appealing to the general public, resulting in a safer environment for us boaters. And the lock keepers I’m sure are a welcome sight to must come rain or shine. As for the Standedge Tunnel, I’m sure you’ll be aware that until recently the chaperon role was carried out be paid staff. If it’s deemed essential those using the tunnel do so with a chaperon and CRT no longer wish to pay people to do this, then I suppose you’d prefer to see the tunnel closed rather than someone volunteering to take on the role. With a live important railway line running alongside, which is accessible from the canal tunnel, I can fully understand the need for a chaperon just on this count alone. I’m sure those doing the role these days are fully competent to do so. If we don’t like it then no ones making anyone go through that way. Plus at the end of the day let’s face it. Most of us are only skippering a narrowboat or at most a widebeam on an inland waterway network at 4mph. We’re not talking supertankers on the open ocean, it’s not that difficult. Driving a vehicle on the road takes more skill these days.