Ashton-under-Lyne canal featured on TV programme

TAMESIDE’s canal network has been showcased to a national audience after featuring in the popular BBC documentary series Canal Boat Diaries.

The programme highlighted the rich heritage and deep history of the borough’s canal and features Hyde, Dukinfield and Ashton.

Episode eight explores routes across Tameside and features council officer Michelle Hill, who is a curator at Portland Basin Museum. Michelle shares insight into the 1917 Ashton Munitions Disaster and its impact on the canal and surrounding community.

They visited the 2010 memorial in Henry Square, located in Ashton-under-Lyne and close to the site of the tragedy. The memorial was designed by sculptor Paul Margetts, who drew inspiration from artwork created by pupils at St Peter’s School – seven of whom lost their lives in the explosion, back in 1917.

The programme explained how wartime pressures led to rushed production, reduced safety standards and ultimately the disaster.

Tameside Council Executive Member for Lifelong Learning and Culture Cllr Leanne Feeley said: “It’s fantastic to see Tameside featured on Canal Boat Diaries. Our canals are a huge part of the borough’s heritage, and it’s great to see our rich history explored and shared with a national audience.

“I would encourage residents and visitors to come and visit our canals and Portland Basin Museum to find out more – it makes for a great day out.”

Michelle Hill, Curator at Portland Basin, Tameside Council, said: “This was a great opportunity to be on Canal Boat Diaries highlighting the tragic story of the Ashton Munitions Disaster and its life-changing impact on the local community, it was great to delve into some of Tameside’s fascinating history.”

Residents and visitors can watch the episode on online streaming services and discover more about Tameside’s rich canal heritage by visiting the area in person. Find out more information about Tameside’s canal network.