Photo of CanalAbility Volunteer John Thorn

CanalAbility Volunteer John Thorn

John Thorn joined CanalAbility in 2018 as a new volunteer and is keen to share his motivation for joining us and his experiences so far.

I first went on canal boat holidays with my parents, sister and our Jack Russell dog when I was (much, much) younger. We went every year for some years and were subsequently joined by my girlfriend (now wife) Alison and all had a great time.

Well, we have all got older, and in 2017 I suggested that we should go on a canal boat again whilst we could (although this time just for a long weekend as my parents aren’t as mobile as they were and my sister has three grown up kids).

We cruised on the Grand Union Canal in the Braunstone area and everyone (thankfully including the kids) enjoyed it. Happy memories of previous trips came flooding back and the opportunity to unwind and enjoy the change of pace was welcome. The narrow boat bug had bitten again and after returning home I subscribed to canal boat magazines and seriously considered buying a share in a narrow boat syndicate.

I work at Stansted Airport and my employer (Manchester Airports Group) is a big supporter of their staff volunteering in the community and actively encourages this. Imagine my surprise (and huge smile on my face) when I saw in the airport newsletter that CanalAbility were looking for volunteers.

Photo of CanalAbility volunteer John, who is raising money for the charity by running 50 miles in June

Having first attended in September / October 2018, I completed my CCC course (Competent Crew Course) and many RPDs (River Practice Days), all provided for free with CanalAbility. Everyone so far (be it Admin, Trainers, fellow crew on RPDs or fellow “newbies” on training) have been absolutely fantastic and so friendly.

Progress and Contributions

John’s dedication and enthusiasm have paid off. He is now fully trained as a Skipper, thanks to the free training provided by CanalAbility. He reflects on the shared aim among the team to make a real difference for their clients. Making a positive impact on someone’s life during a canal cruise is a rewarding experience for John and the entire CanalAbility team.

John believes that everyone benefits from these cruises—customers leave happier, CanalAbility gains more satisfied clients, and John feels fulfilled knowing he has made a difference.

He says, “Everyone that I have met so far seem to have the same aim which is to work at making a real difference for our clients. If people can go out on a cruise with CanalAbility and come back having enjoyed it we will have helped make a difference in their lives (and maybe I can avoid spending a fortune on narrow boat share!).”

Fundraising and Photography 

We are incredibly grateful for John’s remarkable dedication to our charity over the past two years. Through his unwavering commitment, he has taken on numerous fundraising runs and has raised an astounding total of over £1,500. His hard work and perseverance not only inspire us but also make a significant impact on our mission. Thank you, John, for your incredible efforts and for showing us what true determination looks like! Your contributions are changing lives and bringing hope to so many.

John also has a talent for photography, and he kindly provided all the photographs featured in this article, as well as many of the images featured throughout the website, on our publicity and on social media.

If you would like to find out more about volunteering for CanalAbility, contact us on 01279 424444, email us at or read more here