33 episodes
The Waterways World Podcast Waterways World
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- Society & Culture
From city centres to remote countryside, Britain’s canals and rivers provide a peaceful, slower pace of life, while offering fascinating insights into our industrial past. Waterways World editor Bobby Cowling explores the rich culture of our inland navigations in a series of fortnightly interviews with personalities from around the network. Whether you’re a boater, walker, nature-lover or heritage enthusiast, each episode will bring you closer to this unique world.
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Buying and selling boats: Ian Parrott
Ian Parrott is the general manager of the New & Used Boat Company’s office at Mercia Marina, and he has spent 15 years in the boat-brokerage business. He is also a keen waterways enthusiast with his own heritage craft. In conversation with WW editor Bobby Cowling, he provides a fascinating insight into his industry.
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Female boat trainees of WWII: Mike Constable
Mike Constable is an authority on the female trainees of World War II who volunteered to work cargo-carrying boats and, in so doing, experienced a completely new way of life. In conversation with editor Bobby Cowling, Mike provides insights into the role of the trainees and dispels the myth that they were ever disparagingly referred to as the ‘Idle Women’.
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Pets on boats: Tony Jones
WW features writer Tony Jones has a keen interest in animals and has previously worked as a zoo-keeper. In conversation with Bobby Cowling, he discusses the practicalities and considerations of keeping pets on boats, plus some of the more exotic species you might find living afloat.
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Living afloat with a family: Richard MacKenzie
Richard MacKenzie is the owner of a narrowboat-based business selling handmade jewellery. But he also lives aboard his boat with his wife and two children – and, as the kids are home-educated, the family are free to continuously cruise the network. In conversation with WW editor Bobby Cowling, Richard provides an insight into family life afloat.
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Today’s waterway restoration scene: Andrew Denny
There are over 50 waterway restoration schemes active in England and Wales – some making rapid headway, others facing significant difficulties. In conversation with Bobby Cowling, WW news editor Andrew Denny provides an overview of the contemporary restoration scene, with a focus on the projects that have recently been in the headlines.
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Series 3 of Canal Boat Diaries: Robbie Cumming
Popular boat vlogger and TV star Robbie Cumming recently completed filming of the third series of BBC Four’s ‘Canal Boat Diaries’, which sees him cruise from Wigan in Greater Manchester to Ripon in North Yorkshire. In conversation with WW editor Bobby Cowling, he discusses the highlights of his trip and his passion for the waterways of north England.