In preparation for the planned restoration of Hey Lock we are investigating the material used to fill it in, in approximately 1975.

If anyone can shed light upon this, please get in touch as soon as possible. Also, we know there was a lock cottage on the site, west of the canal, which had been demolished probable in the 1950’s, whilst the sugar boats were still using the waterway.

We know that the last family in the cottage were named Mottram and, thanks to an elderly man who stopped to chat whilst we were inspecting the trial holes, we know that they used to live on Wargrave Road, but moved out over a year ago. Does anyone have contact with anyone from the family? Please let us know, as we would like to see if they can add to our information on the lock site, or could contribute to our Cuttings series on the lock cottages and their families.

Via the internet we have received a request for information about Penkford Farm, near our work sites at Newton Common. The mother of the enquirer was brought up there, and he is seeking further information - and, especially, a photograph of the farm. Please get in touch if you can help him.