Ahead of his final week in post, volunteers and colleagues at Hatton Locks on the Grand Union Canal surprised chief executive Richard Parry by naming a new workboat in his honour.
Chief Executive Richard Parry on the Grand Union Canal with the boat that bears his name
It’s the ultimate tribute for a man who has spent the last 12 years battling to preserve our canals and rivers, helping to keep them safe, accessible and open to all.
The 30-foot work boat and hopper will join our fleet of maintenance vessels in the West Midlands, assisting us with essential tasks such as brickwork repairs, litter picking and offside vegetation clearance.
“I’ve had so many wonderful conversations with colleagues, volunteers and boaters since announcing my decision to step down, conversations that I’ll cherish,” said Richard, at the unveiling of his new namesake. “But I was really taken aback when I realised that the team was giving me the huge honour of naming a boat after me.”
Richard (pictured here with some of our volunteers) has made a lasting impression on our network
Richard joined us as chief executive in 2013, just a year after we took over the reins from British Waterways. In that time, he has overseen huge changes, spearheading numerous initiatives to keep our 250-year-old network open and accessible in the face of unrelenting passage of time.
“It’s been an honour to lead the Trust through such a key period,” says Richard. “I’ve loved working with such committed colleagues and our amazing volunteers, making so many friends amongst those who use our canals and share our passion for them.”
Richard’s impact cannot be overstated, taking the helm at such a critical, formative time in our charity’s history.
“Richard has made an unparalleled contribution to the cause, establishing the Trust as a much-admired national charity,” says our chair, David Orr. “It’s very fitting that the team took the decision to name the workboat after him. We thank Richard for his invaluable service and wish him the very best in the years ahead.”
Following a rigorous recruitment process, Richard’s successor Campbell Robb, will be joining us in early October. And, as Richard affirms, there’s still much to be done.
Our new chief executive, Campbell Robb, joins us on 6 October
“The work of the Trust continues to increase as we fight the unrelenting passage of time on our amazing but ageing waterways,” he says. “I’m very pleased that my name will be part of that effort as the team carries out important work to help keep our canal network open and navigable for boaters and all to enjoy.”
Just like Richard, Campbell, who has a background in government and social justice, joins us at a pivotal time for our charity. With climate change and funding cuts, the cost of maintaining our fragile aging infrastructure is greater than ever.
“I’m delighted that Campbell will be joining us as our new chief executive,” says David. “He brings a wealth of experience from across the charity sector, including 15 years in similar roles where he has successfully strengthened organisations to respond to challenges and opportunities. I look forward to working with him to secure the longer-term future of our canals.”
As Richard bids us farewell, we wish him all the best in his future endeavours. His incredible legacy will live on for years to come, not least in the form of Richard Parry, the sturdy work boat that proudly bears the name of one of our charity’s leading lights.
Last Edited: 27 August 2025
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