There is also an appeal for old photographs, maps, documents and artefacts relating to the Lowgates area of Staveley

The Chesterfield Canal Trust is planning an archaeological dig in August in the hopes of finding a lost Cuckoo boat, after winning a £10,000 grant from the Aviva Community Fund.

The excavation will take place at the original Bellhouse Basin in Staveley, as it is believed at least one Cuckoo, which were unique to the Chesterfield, could be in the area. If found, it may be well preserved, allowing personal items to have survived.

From thousands of organisations bidding for funding, more than 9,000 people voted for the ‘Last Cuckoo Project’, which was put forward by CCT member Andy Robinson.

“I am absolutely delighted that we have won this money. We intend to involve lots of members of the local community, including children. This is a chance for them to learn first hand about how Staveley played a vital part right from the beginning of the Industrial Revolution.”

Andy is appealing for anyone with a past in the Lowgates area of Staveley, especially the bottom of Bellhouse Lane, to get in touch if they have old photographs, maps, documents, press cutting and artefacts. Contact info@hollingwood.org.uk.

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