Andy G -- your trip down the Wye?

[Randy Fandango]

We were chatting about your planned Wye trip while drifting down the Thames the other week and I mentioned that the WCA has withdrawn from voluntary access agreements on Welsh rivers.
Here's the link to their website with loads of info on the matter (if you haven't found it yourself):

http://www.kayakingisnotacrime.org.uk/index.php

If you're not sure about their stance or if you need "access permission" per se to paddle, email Ash and he'll happily fill you in on the present situation.
Giles

[andy g]

Many thanks Giles ,
I have tried twice to raise Ash , I am sure he will get back to me soon.
Regards
Andy

[Randy Fandango]

My guess would be that he will tell you that its not his or the WCA's position to grant you access to paddle that or any other Welsh river (I assume the part you want to paddle is in Wales?)
Their stance after all is:
"We’ve made a commitment not to restrict paddling......
We’ve recognised that we’re not here to provide access: we’re technical experts......
We recognise that the majority of canoeing in Wales takes place outside formal access arrangements......
And we believe that paddlers should have the right to enjoy Welsh water......"

[alanpuds]

andy,

what part of the wye do you want to paddle.?????

i may have some usful contacts as i used to live up that way.........

[andy g]

Alan
Going from Hereford to Monmouth in 3 days
Hereford to Hoarwirthy
Hoarwirthy to Welsh Bicknor
Welsh Bicknor to Monmouth
Grateful for any info. This part of the river used to be considered a navigation, so the access issue did not arise , but now it seems all bets are off.
Regards
Andy

[Randy Fandango]

Andy,
Just follow the WCA's advice:
"And we believe that paddlers should have the right to enjoy Welsh water......"
Go on the trip and enjoy.
Its a beautiful part of the country.
Giles