VISITORS to Ulverston Canal will soon be able to discover more about its history and heritage thanks to a series of specially-designed totems, which are being installed along the towpath.

The pieces – designed and fabricated by Ulverston’s Chris Brammall – form part of a development and improvement programme led by the Canal Regeneration Group.

The installation marks the final stage in the latest phase of development that has already seen several walkways and pathways enhanced to improve visitor access to the site. Preparation of the site has already started and the totems will be fitted next week.

Five Weathering Steel vertical interpretation totems – manufactured at Chris Brammall’s workshop at Low Mill Business Park – will be installed, each designed to celebrate and bring to life the history and heritage of the canal. The three-metre tall entrance totem maps out the canal dimensions and its main historical features.

Artist and designer Mr Brammall said: “The totems are designed to educate and inspire visitors to the canal about its fascinating history and heritage such as the ironwork, ship building and trade.

"As with all our projects, these pieces have been designed to be site specific and we hope that visitors enjoy discovering more about the canal and are inspired to learn more about its past.

"With the support of the Regeneration Group – who work tirelessly to make Ulverston Canal a nicer environment for everyone to enjoy – we have been able to create something very special.”

Colin Smith, chairman of the Canal Regeneration Group, added: “The installation of the five interpretation totems marks a significant milestone in the redevelopment of the canal. As a group, we are dedicated to enhancing and improving Britain’s straightest canal to make it even more enjoyable for locals and visitors and we can’t wait to share this latest development with everyone.”

Activities and events hosted by Ulverston Canal Regeneration Group include The Anchor Festival (October 15-30) where local groups and schools make and decorate anchors that are displayed along the towpath and The Brolly Parade (Friday, December 2).