The archive is extensive and we aim to make as many of these images available online as soon as possible.
We have Upcoming Events to raise awareness of the collection and our project.
PLEASE NOTE THAT THE 1st APRIL EVENT AND ALL FUTURE EVENTS HAVE BEEN CANCELLED until further notice.
CORONAVIRUS UPDATE, JUNE 2020: In line with Government easing of restrictions some volunteers are now able to access our archive rooms to digitise Burnley Express negatives for the website. We are looking at ways of safely allowing more access to the rooms so that we can return to normal or near normal activity.
50 years Ago
Mr. Ian Parrington of Burnley takes his craft "Clare-Monte" through the obstacle course.
It is great fun messing about in boats as the crowds who attended the boat rally at Finsley Gate marina on Sunday, 9th August 1970, will testify. About 40 craft from a wide area of Lancashire and Yorkshire took part in the rally.
Events included manoeuvring contests, obstacle races, and a competition for the most unusual boat won by the "floating duck." This was the craft "Julie", owned by Mr. and Mrs. Harold Bradshaw of 112 Waddington Avenue, Burnley. The duck's head, which had a great likeness to film star Donald, was made by their daughter-in-law, Susan. To complete the day's success "Julie" also won the manoeuvring class.
Another local winner was Mr. Ian Parrington, in his boat "Clare-Monte." Three trophies were won by Mr. David Taylor of Haslingden with his craft "Capri". He won the best dressed boat class, the best equipped for safety and the obstacle race. A drawing competition for the children was won by Adam Jackson and Lorraine Riley, both of Burnley. Prizes were presented by Mr. William Pemberton, former district inspector for British Waterways.
The event was organised by the East Lancashire and West Yorkshire Boat Club.
