Geoff Gilman bench

The Geoff Gilman Memorial Bench

Geoff Gilman was chairman of the Friends of the Montgomery Canal from its formation in 2001 until his death in August 2006.  However, Geoff was renowned for his many diverse interests and his enthusiastic involvement with lots of other organisations.  This towpath bench was commissioned in his memory by the ‘Friends’ on behalf of his many colleagues and friends.

The bench has been specially handmade and carved by local cabinet maker and sculptor, Barry Davies of Llanrhaeadr ym Mochnant.  Barry has used air-dried Welsh oak, well known for its character and variations in grain, which will weather to a wonderful silver grey colour.  The sturdy bench has a natural, rustic simplicity and will blend in beautifully at its location near Bridge 100 on the Montgomery Canal, close to Geoff’s home in Four Crosses and where he loved to stop on his towpath walks.

The bench is being paid for by subscription and thanks are due to the friends and organisations which have already contributed:

Sue Bell                                      Stephen Lees

Paul Corby                                 Michael Limbrey

Bill & Shirley D’Arcy                   Roy Mansell

Freda Davies                             John Martin

John Duggan                             Chris Merrett

Maggie Ellis                               Christine Palin

John Enser                                 Judy Richards

Pat & Alan Hill                             Peter Richards

Peter Kirkman                             Andy Talbot

Friends of the Montgomery Canal

Inland Waterways Association, Shrewsbury District & North Wales Branch

Llanymynech Amateur Dramatic Society

Macclesfield Canal Society

Shropshire Union Canal Society

If you would like to contribute please contact the Friends treasurer, Peter Richards       

on 01691 831455.