SUMBA Launches "Cheshire Towpath Gardens"

Richard Parry, Canal & River Trust's Chief Executive, visited Aqueduct Marina on Saturday September 1 to launch SUMBA's (Shropshire Union Middlewich Branch Adopters) first "Cheshire's Towpath Garden".

SUMBA initiative and project for the Shropshire Union Middlewich Branch within its adoption of the 5 1/2 miles from Barbridge Junction to Morris Bridge 11.

SUMBA will be creating "Towpath Gardens" at mooring sites, locks and bridges on the Middlewich Arm to provide spring colour and fresh fruit for all canal users.

Mr Parry planted two historic Cheshire apple trees, a Bee Beech and Minshull Crab, both cookers, in the towpath opposite Aqueduct Marina.
Ten SUMBA volunteers then completed the first "Towpath Garden" by planting five further apple trees, 200 daffodil bulbs and hedging whips to repair and extend the hedgerow.