About

It began in 1975 when the Prince of Wales' Committee in partnership with The Variety Club of Great Britain, arranged for the apprentices of Cammell Laird to build a 70ft canal boat specially designed to carry disabled children. It is thought to be a world first! It was named HEULWEN, which is Welsh for 'Sunshine' and was launched by HRH the Prince of Wales. The scheme was set up to last ten years, after which local people would assume responsibility to continue the good work.

The Heulwen Trust, formed in 1985, took on this task under the Chairmanship of Claude Millington (he sadly died in 2004) who enthusiastically led a team of volunteers. Our main source of funding is from our annual Country and Western Music Fesitvals. We strive to make each festival to be the best ever. During all these years our presenter of the festival entertainment has been Steve Farrar. Steve has also been responsible for selecting the artistes and continues to do so.

The trust had raised sufficient funds to buy, in 1992, enough canal-side land to provide a much needed private wharf for the boats. In 1993 delivery was taken of a second 70ft. narrow boat which was launched and named Heulwen II by Prince Charles in May of that year.

Heulwen II is operational Monday to Friday throughout the year. To date more than 45,000 persons with disabilities have enjoyed free daily trips on the canal. The boat is in continual demand by special schools, hospitals etc. from a wide area of Wales, Shropshire, and the West Midlands. Heulwen I is also available to disabled persons.

There is no doubt that the trips give immense pleasure and benefit to the groups who use this service. This in turn gives much pleasure to members of the Trust who see themselves working for such a beneficial cause.