Called ‘Richard Parry’ the 30ft work boat and hopper will be used for operational maintenance, such as brickwork repairs, litter picking and offside vegetation clearance in the West Midlands. Its nameplate includes reference to Richard’s service as chief executive between 2013 and 2025.
Back in January Richard announced his decision to stand down after serving 12 years in the post having joined us a year after our creation. A recruitment process for our next chief executive got underway and his successor, Campbell Robb, joins us in early October.
A huge honour
Speaking about the unveiling of the new workboat Richard Parry said: “I have had so many wonderful comments and conversations with colleagues, volunteers and boaters since announcing my decision to step down; conversations that I will cherish. But I was taken aback when I realised that the team was giving me the huge honour of naming a boat after me.
“The work of the Trust continues to increase as we fight the unrelenting passage of time on our amazing but ageing canal network. I am very pleased that my name will be part of that effort as the team carries out important work to help keep the West Midlands’ canal network open and navigable for boaters and all to enjoy.”
Unparallel contributions
David Orr, chair of the Canal & River Trust, comments: “Richard has made an unparalleled contribution, establishing the Trust as a much-admired national charity. He has made a great many friends across the waterways community and it is very fitting that the team took the decision to name the workboat in his honour. We thank Richard for his 12 years of service and wish him the very best in the years ahead.”
