Tom Rolt Centenary Celebration Rally , Chester

Chester was Tom Rolt’s birthplace so, in this, the Centenary Year of his birth, the Chester Branch of the Inland Waterways Association welcome all to their Centenary Rally at the city’s Tower Wharf.

The organisers hope to have significant numbers of vintage cars from the Vintage Sports Car Club as well as the possibility of an appearance by the Tom Rolt Steam Locomotive (on a low loader) from the Talyllyn Railway, reflecting Tom's involvement with these organisations. There will also be traders, live music including waterways music workshops with the young volunteers from The Waterways Action Team based at Ellesmere Port Boat Museum; WOW (Wild over Waterways) children's activities, angling taster sessions and refreshment stands.

Over 70 boats have already booked in to attend including several historic craft.  We also hope to have the concept hydrogen powered narrowboat from Birmingham University attending - courtesy of Tattenhall Marina.  "Heron" will also be joining us on her Cressy Re-enactment Cruise - following Tom & Angela Rolt's journey around the waterways in 1939.  This led to the publication of Tom's iconic book "Narrowboat" which resulted in the founding of the Inland Waterways Association in 1946.

There will also be a "Celebration Dinner" at the Guildhall, Chester on Friday 25th June - 7-30 p.m. for 8-00 p.m. Cost - £20 per person. Please see menu and download form.

Please use the links below to obtain information and application form to go on the Manchester Ship Canal Cruise. This is taking place after the Tom Rolt Centenary Event.

Download Entry Forms:

Boat Entry Form
Boat Entry Conditions
Trade Form
Trade Conditions
Tom Rolt Centenary Dinner Menu
Manchester Ship Canal Cruise
Manchester Ship Canal Form