James Brindley, sometimes called the Father of British waterways was responsible for the construction of over 4,000 miles of canals. This study looks at his life and work.'

Author Biography

Bradnop near Leek, James Brindley being one of the few men from thearea to achieve more than local fame, it was natural that Harold Bode, headmaster of Bradnop Parochial School, should become interested in this remarkable man. In 1963 a few enthusiasts, icnluding the author, set up the Caldon Canal Committee, now the Caldon Canal Society. In 1968 he started the agitation which led to Brindley Mill Preservation Trust, establish to restore the Leek Mill as a memorial to the great engineer. In 1972, bicentenary of James Brindley's death, harold Bode had the satisfaction of seeing the corn-mill taken over by the Trust and restoration started in earnest.