Both men told BB they are looking forward to starting work. "It will be good to be able to get user's views acted upon, " said Fletcher.

Pridding told us: "Right now we have to look out for the needs of all BW user groups."

I will find Dave's experience invaluable, added Pridding.

Braunston Marina's Tim Coghlan added his own testi-monial for Fletcher, telling BB: "His role in BW, and the extra-ordinary things he achieved, are now increasingly being recognised."

Pridding and Fletcher will represent the views of BWAF's members in meetings with BW's senior management and board members.

And if BB's recent letters pages are anything to go by, there will be lots to talk about? "It is evident that there is a need for clear and coordinated representation of the diverse range of interest groups associated with the wider uses of the waterways network, " said Pridding. "The creation of the forum allows stakeholders to work together constructively and present their views to BW, while it will be for BW to demonstrate its commitments to openness and accountability."

However, he added, the challenge now presented to all is to seize the opportunity to work together and make the BWAF a true forum for meaningful, two-way communication.

The official BW statement said the BWAF "aims to allow proper opportunity for informed debate about issues of strategic and policy nature concerning British Waterways' stewardship of the canal and river waterway network".

"By ensuring that the most effective mechanisms are in place to aid transparency of our operations and improve dialogue with the many millions of people who come into contact with the waterways network each year, we can be assured that British Waterways' responsibility and commitment to exemplary business practice is protected and preserved, " said George Greener, current chairman of BW.