Welcome from the Heart of England section of the LDWA.

We would like to thank you for your interest in the Birmingham Canal Canter 2014 - 26 or 18 miles from The Ackers Trust, Golden Hillock Road, Birmingham B11 2PY 

     Did you know that Birmingham has more miles of canals than Venice. This low cost transport network, the equivalent of today's national motorways, fuelled the industrial revolution. Most are now quiet back waters, linear arms of the country that penetrate deep into the heart of the city. Never dull, the backdrop varies from rural landscapes to our industrial heritage to state of the art developments. We invite you on these walks/runs with a difference exploring Britain’s second city from a new perspective. Both this years routes are circular starting and finishing at Ackers Trust Residential Centre.Taking in the Cole Valley Way, Stratford on Avon Canal, Birmingham and Worcester Canal, Birmingham Wolverhampton Main Line Canal and Soho Loop (26 miles only), Fazeley Canal and returning via the Grand Union Canal. They  pass Sarehole Mill (inspiration to Tolkien’s Middle Earth), Gas Street Basin, home of the International Convention Centre, the award winning Brindley Place development and under the dark bowels of Spaghetti Junction.  They are 97% off road with very few crossings, no stiles and probably the least ascent and descent you will do this year!!
Did I mention the catering? Well the catering includes a breakfast stop, our cake competition at CP3 (26 miles only) and a hot meal on completion. Overnight accommodation bunkhouse style (bring towel and sleeping bag) including breakfast and food (Pizza) on Friday evening £15.

There will be five checkpoints (26.2 mile) en route. All will supply cold drinks and simple food, some will supply hot drinks but entrants should carry their own supplies to supplement these.

Please note: IT IS ESSENTIAL TO BRING A MUG as cups will not be provided.

There will be hot drinks and a meal at the finish including a vegetarian option. Showers and changing rooms also available on completion

Entry for LDWA members is £8,  non members £12  and OTD entry is priced at £15. Cheques should be made payable to "Heart of England LDWA". SEF accepted or Sportident entry + £1, or for even more choice use the entry form link provided here: BCC 2014 Entry Form.

Start 0830 walkers for 26 miles, runners both courses and walkers short course 0930.

Bring that essential mug and don't forget a healthy appetite !

Showers and baggage storage during the event - free secure car park or for not afraid to walk a little more then its only a 5 min walk from Small Heath station.

Entry secretary Alan Athey, 23 Yeomans Close Astwood Bank Redditch B96 6ET.  email alan.athey@googlemail.com or tel  0758 403 6547