The Rose is a 55′ wide beam boat, owned by the Kennet and Avon Canal Trust, that offers private charters and regular public trips along the Kennet and Avon Canal from Hungerford Wharf. The Rose carries over 6,000 passengers a year and contributes about £40,000 to the Kennet and Avon Canal Trust. The boat is entirely run by fully trained volunteers who do it because they thoroughly enjoy it. Every penny raised by The Rose goes directly to the Trust.
January 2022 Update
Christmas Eve saw the last of our sell-out Father Christmas trips and thanks must go to everyone for supporting us, not only with these, but throughout 2021.
We’ve survived this difficult and uncertain year predominantly by being flexible enough to adapt to frequently changing situations whilst being careful to observe guidelines and restrictions. As in the whole country there were many varying views on what changes should or should not be made and we tried to be sensitive to people’s feelings, both passengers and crew.
Plans are underway for the 2022 season which starts with a special trip on Mothering Sunday 27 March, with regular trips starting at the beginning of April.
We are lucky enough to have a stalwart group of volunteers who run The Rose. They are lucky enough to have already discovered the combination of good things that being a member of the crew brings. We work hard to raise funds for the Kennet and Avon Canal Trust by offering regular public trips and private crewed charters from Hungerford Wharf; but more than that, we have fun. We train hard, but there are always smiles and laughter; we work as a close-knit, friendly and supportive team but individuals have the opportunity to do different roles and train further to gain qualifications, if they wish. There are regular crew social events such as a summer al fresco lunch, a pub supper or a winter crew quiz. Crewing on The Rose must be one of the most enjoyable ways to volunteer; helping our passengers, young and old, enjoy their time on board while appreciating the beautiful Kennet and Avon Canal, its flora and fauna as well as its fascinating history.
Volunteers are all ages (over 16), from various locations, careers and experiences and we are now searching for new crew members. If you are interested, or would like to find out more about crewing on The Rose please email rose.volunteer@katrust.org.uk with your name, address, telephone number and email. We would be pleased to organise for you to come out with us one day to see if you enjoy it. There is no need to have any experience as full training will be given.
One of the most popular features is the crew booking system. Rather than having a regular fixed commitment, there is an online roster so the crew can find times that suit them.
One of our long standing supporters sent me this poem about volunteering which I thought I would share with you:
It’s not for money, it’s not for fame;
It’s not for any personal gain.
It’s just for love of fellow man;
It’s just to give a helping hand.
To give a little of oneself
Is something you can’t buy with wealth.
Like hard-earned medals worn with pride,
This, too, makes you feel good inside.
It’s your reward, there in your heart,
It’s feeling that you’ve been a part
Of helping others far and near.
That makes you want to VOLUNTEER!
Do come and join us. We’d love to hear from you and you would be very welcome.
More information available on our website at rose.katrust.org.uk/help-us and also on Facebook and Instagram on our official pages @theroseofhungerford.
Trips
Trips vary in length and give passengers the chance to enjoy a slow and relaxing view of the canal, and all it has to offer; bridges, locks, wildlife and spectacular scenery. The Rose has a galley and licensed bar and can offer hot and cold drinks and snacks; charter trips can be catered or self-catered. The boat has an electric wheelchair lift and facilities on board.
Would you like to volunteer?
The Rose is currently recruiting new volunteers so now’s your chance if you’re interested in joining the crew. No experience is necessary as full training is provided for the various roles. If you are over 16 (essential as there is a licensed bar on board), enjoy working as part of a team and being outdoors this could be for you. It is clear to see that the crew have a great time and enjoy being on The Rose, on the Kennet and Avon Canal and looking after their passengers.
If you would like more information about what is involved and would like to go out on a trip to see if you enjoy it you can email rose.volunteer@katrust.org.uk.
Any general enquiries about The Rose of Hungerford can be emailed to rose@katrust.org.uk.
Further information and photographs are on all major social media sites and The Rose’s website rose.katrust.org.uk
