THIS year marks the 200th anniversary of the opening of the Union and Caledonian Canals, and Scottish Canals has now set sail on the celebrations.
The year of festivities includes online experiences, canal challenges, lighting structures, festivals and walking tours.
Catherine Topley, Scottish Canals chief executive officer, said: “Scotland’s inland waterways are treasured historic assets that belong to the people of Scotland and we’re inviting everyone to get involved in this year-long celebration.
“Whether you want to set yourself a canal challenge, attend one of the fantastic events that will be taking place or even host your own, there’s plenty of opportunity to be part of this once in a lifetime occasion.
“Since December more than 175 people have signed up for this year’s Canal Challenge 200 and will be walking and running 200 miles along our towpaths while others are committing to getting on to the canal 200 days out of the year.
“We have boaters who will be sailing the Caledonian Canal for the first time and paddlers attempting all five of Scotland’s canals.
“We even have a group of magnet fishers planning to pull 200 items safely from the canal.”
The Canal Challenge involves challenges such as paddling the Union Canal over a weekend, running the Ford and Clyde towpath and sailing the Caledonian Canals.
Topley added: “In May a colourful flotilla will bring vibrancy to the water, and The Falkirk Wheel will host an action-packed day of family fun as part of its 20th birthday celebrations; while in June a floating garden will travel along the Lowlands as part of the Dandelion event – so get involved as 2022 is shaping up to be a fantastic year on Scotland’s canals!”
Other celebrations mark Thomas Telford raising Loch Ness by 1.2m and The Walking Theatre Company telling the story of Burke and Hare down the Union Canal.
These are delivered in partnership with Scottish Waterways for All.
Stuart Rennie from Scottish Waterways for All said: “This really is an exciting time for all the volunteer organisations based on the canals, those who live on board, and the boaters and communities who simply enjoy the benefits that our canals bring to our health and wellbeing.
“We can’t wait to host our Union Canal 200 flotilla this May and to share the wonderful stories of Scotland’s canals with the communities they flow through.
“It’s not every day we get to celebrate a 200th anniversary, never mind two, so we’re encouraging everyone to rise to the occasion to help make 2022 a year to remember.”
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