FINAL PUSH NEEDED FOR ANDERTON BOAT LIFT APPEAL

Hundreds of canal enthusiasts and Cheshire residents have dug deep in their pockets for the Anderton Boat Lift Appeal, which was launched in May, but a final big push is still needed to complete the restoration works.

Local businesses too have responded to the call and all but £50,000 of the £7 million needed is now pledged towards restoring the magnificent Victorian structure, which will again connect the Trent & Mersey Canal with the River Weaver 50 feet below.

Powergen is just one of the companies who have pledged £1,000 or more to give a lift to the Anderton Appeal to become a 'Bronze Patron'.

Steve Wheat of Powergen said: "As part of the local community, Powergen CHP is pleased to make a contribution to the Anderton Boat Lift Appeal to ensure it remains part of our industrial heritage for future generations."

Appeal manager Rosslyn Colderley said: "We have been thrilled with the response so far, particularly from individual members of the public, both locally and nationally. It is great to see that national businesses with a high local profile are also willing to put their weight behind this appeal.

"But we mustn't rest on our laurels. There is still a significant amount to find before we can finish the work, which is now well under way. A completion date is due in September 2001."

For more information on how you can support the Anderton Boat Lift Appeal, pick up a leaflet or call 01606 77415.