LHCRT News 2021

A Lichfield woman's idea to create a special place to celebrate her best friend's life has resulted in the restoration of a picnic table at Fosseway Heath and a much-needed cash boost for the city's Canal Trust.
Beth Toovey launched an appeal on JustGiving to sponsor the restoration of a picnic table at Lock 18 on the Fosseway Heath section of the Lichfield Canal as a way to remember her friend Geraldine Agnew.
Geraldine, originally from Grimsby and the mother of Olivia and Ruari, was gym manager at Lichfield Health and Fitness Club for many years, and, said Beth, she became a huge part of the community, known and loved by so many.
“I had the pleasure of Geraldine as my best friend. We shared so many good times together and were also keen runners.
“Many of our runs were along the canals and that particular spot is really close to one of our favourite longer runs.
“It is in a beautiful spot with great views – Geraldine would definitely approve!
“I wanted to do something that was easy for friends and family of Geraldine to get involved with and feel part of creating a special place where we can remember and celebrate Geraldine's life.
“We also arrange walks and runs just to get together and thought it would be lovely to incorporate this stretch of the canal as part of the route.”

Beth said: “If you would like to contribute it will really help Lichfield and Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust restore this whole area and get the canal moving again.
“We hope to arrange a walk to celebrate Geraldine as soon as we are able along the canal route.”

The response to the JustGiving appeal astonished Beth, with £603 raised within 12 hours, smashing her target of £500, and it has so far attracted over £960 of donations.
  
Anyone wishing to make a donation should visit A bench for Geraldine.