At noon today, Saturday 2nd October, Michael Fabricant unveiled the new canal fingerpost at Huddlesford Junction near Lichfield. Amidst tooting of narrow boat horns in celebration, Michael said "This fingerpost points to Fradley and to Coventry. But the most important direction is to Ogley Junction: 6 miles, 7 furlongs and 30 locks away. At present the post has another sign bolted on it: ‘No Access’. But I hope it will not be too long before I am asked to unscrew that sign when the Lichfield and Hatherton canals are finally reopened".

Speaking later, Michael added: "Canals bring visitors from all over the world. I have recently met tourists from America, Australia, Israel, and South Africa on the canal system near Lichfield. The completion of the Lichfield and Hatherton canals will bring thousands of tourists to the heart of Lichfield with all the economic benefits to our City." Michael is a regular narrow-boater.

From left to right, Brian Kingshott Chairman of the Lichfield & Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust, Eric Wood President of the Lichfield & Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust, and Michael Fabricant.