Dandelion is shown cruising on the Soar north of
Loughborough on its maiden voyage after refit in 2003.
Dandelion was obtained by the Trust in late
2002. It was offered to us by Leicester City Council together with
narrow boat Charlotte. Both boats had previously been used for
community purposes but had fallen into disuse and then been badly
vandalised and/or sunk or suffered other water damage. The basis
of the acquisition was that the Trust would, if possible, restore the boats and
return them to community uses.
Throughout 2003 volunteers worked on Dandelion to
repair the engine and to refit the boat internally. In particular
the front saloon was extended and a disabled access toilet
provided. The galley was moved further aft. Dandelion was
returned to service in 2003 and has been in full operation since 2004.
The layout of the boat is shown below. The layout
was changed for the 2006 season with the
bunks being removed and the toilet being relocated so that space in the
forward saloon has been increased.
Narrow boat Dandelion is operated from the Pillings
Lock Marina in Quorn. Located at Flesh Hovel Lane in Quorn, LE12
8FE.
