CELEBRATIONS to mark next year's bi-centenary of work starting on the construction of the Tavistock canal are being planned by a group from Tavistock Forward.

The canal bi-centenary working party is appealing to anyone who has paintings, sketches, book illustrations, artefacts, indeed anything associated with Tavistock canal, to come forward to supply items for an exhibition.

The working party would particularly like more information about the barges which used the canal.

An outline description has come to light, but there is no illustration or precise detail of the craft.

It is hoped with more information, a model canal barge could be commissioned to feature in the exhibition.

The group is also planning to extend a programme of events marking the bi-centenary from next June through to the end of August.

Proposals have been put forward for major improvements to the canal towpath, and if they are completed in time, a programme of guided walks along the towpath could be held during the bi-centenary celebrations.

Lectures about the canal might also be arranged, focussing on the role of John Taylor, the manager of the Wheal Friendship and Wheal Betsy mines, who surveyed a route for the canal and was appointed its construction engineer.

The first sod marking the start of work on Tavistock Canal was cut on August 29, 1803, a month after the Tavistock Canal Act 1803 received the Royal Assent.

A grand official opening ceremony was finally held in June, 1817.

Graham Kirkpatrick of the canal bi-centenary working group would be happy to hear from anyone who can provide material for exhibition during the celebrations.

Mr Kirkpatrick can be contacted on 01822 614525.