This afternoon brought brilliant sunshine to the Swansea Canal and proved to be a game of two halves. The main business was to open the Swansea Canal Centre but first we took a look at the Buried Lock.

Our guests – funders, supporters and friends – met in the car park to St Benedict’s Church. Gordon welcomed everyone before giving a brief introduction to the work of the Swansea Canal Society and the progress towards exposing and restoring the Buried Lock.

We then walked to the towpath where we observed the site. Space was limited but we could all see the tremendous achievements to date. The old lock is fully exposed and ready for restoration. It was wonderful to have John Evans with us. He was responsible for burying the lock so carefully in 1973 and today was the first opportunity for him to see what a good job he had done.

Now we all moved to the Swansea Canal Centre on Hebron Road for the Grand Opening.

Tonia Antoniazzi and Robert Francis-Davies spoke about their association with the Society and how pleased they were with the progress we have made. Then then cut the ribbon and declared the centre officially open.

Time to move inside where we were treated to drinks and fabulous cakes made by the volunteers. There was plenty of time to chat: maybe catch up with old friends or perhaps make new ones.

Another wonderful day on the canal and another magnificent milestone. Of course, none of this would be possible without the support of our funders. We are so grateful to them all.