A boating wonder land! (From Warrington Guardian)

A boating wonder land!

TENS of thousands of people are set to descend upon Runcorn this weekend to attend the National Festival and Boat Show.

The three-day event, which runs from August 27 to 29, is to be held on the banks of the Bridgewater Canal at Preston Brook and organisers expect to attract more than 500 boats from all over Britain.

Jenny MacGillivray, of the National Festivals Publicity Team, said: "Everything to do with boats and waterways will be at the festival, including the latest in boat building, fitting and equipment.

"A packed programme of entertainment and attractions offers a great day out for everyone, with an activities programme for young visitors, craft and antiques fairs, canal crafts, art exhibitions, arena events, theatre and live music."

The site is close to the birthplace of Lewis Carroll, the author of Alice In Wonderland. With this in mind the 'Alice' theme has been chosen for the event and many of the boats will be decorated to reflect this theme.

Festival Chairman, Tony Hirst OBE, said: "The Inland Waterways Association prides itself on giving a local flavour to this premier national event, holding it in Lewis Carroll country has given us a wonderful advantage."

Adult day tickets will cost £7.50 and £5 for senior citizens with three-day tickets priced at £15.

Children under the age of 16 will be admitted free of charge as long as a full-paying adult accompanies them.

The entrance for the public will be at Windmill Hill.

To book tickets, go to the festival website at www.waterways.org.uk/festivals or call 0870-240 2438.

james.hanley@worldgroup.co.uk