Trentham Gardens and Shugborough was an enjoyable day out and Barbara thanked Ruth McPartlin for organising the outing.

The speaker Julie Brandon explained how "Roses and Castles" came to be the decorations on canal barges.

Canals were used in the 18th century when Francis Edgerton, a mine owner near Manchester realised that he could transport 25 tonnes of coal in one load - this was normally delivered by horse and cart.

As help was expensive and difficult to hire, living quarters were built to accommodate the family, the children were tied to the boat to prevent them falling into the canal and they all had jobs allocated to them.

To make the living quarters more comfortable, the bargees began to decorate plates, water kettles and panels which were hinged to make into tables.

The roses represented Cottage Gardens and the Castles - the home where they hoped to live once they retired.

Julie explained how she became interested in the art after a visit to Wigan Pier and demonstrated how to pain a rose on wood.

The winner of the competition was Pauline Tarpey.

The next meeting is July 22 - anyone welcome to join.

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