Barrow upon Soar is home to the Baldwin Trust’s boat: Dandelion. Dandelion arrived at the Trust in 2002 after being purchased for the princely sum of £1! Since then, it has been fully refurbished to meet the Trust’s high standards of accessibility and began giving day trips soon after this work was completed.

In the 20 plus years since, Dandelion has given thousands of deserving people much needed time on the water, getting away from daily challenges, connecting with others and learning something about the beautiful Charnwood area and nature along the way.

During the most recent closed season, Dandelion underwent significant maintenance, including a full lift out of the water for hull inspection and re-paint, engine realignment, electrical upgrade and more; maintenance volunteers have done a tremendous job to ensure Dandelion is fit for use for many years to come.

To celebrate this piece of local history, the Baldwin Trust is offering some four-hour cruises during July and August for just £150 – total price of up to 12 passengers (a brilliant 10% saving on the normal price)

To take advantage of this offer, visit the website at www.baldwintrust.co.uk to book online, or call the Bookings Officer on 07923 817718.

The Baldwin boats are operated by a team of almost 90 volunteers, many of whom live in Barrow and the surrounding villages – so please give them a wave when you next see them on the water!

Volunteers meet every Monday from 7.30pm to 10.00pm at Birstall Social Club, Wanlip Lane, Birstall LE4 4JS. Please contact John Phillips on 07738 526757 for more details, or just pop along to the Birstall Social Club any Monday.

Karisa Krcmar