Towpath Ranger comes to Golborne
Joseph Young became London’s first Towpath Ranger six months ago, and part of his patch is the section of the Grand Union Canal that runs along the northern boundary of Golborne. You might already have seen him cycling on the towpath with his distinctive blue British Waterways jacket.
He’s been employed by British waterways to make sure that cyclists show respect and consideration for pedestrians on the towpath.
“Unfortunately, there are a minority of cyclists who simply go too fast along the canal,’ says Joseph, who previously worked as an anti-social behaviour officer for Genesis Housing Association and Islington Council.
‘The vast majority of cyclists show proper concern for pedestrians. It really is down to common sense – cyclists should always give way to pedestrians and they should warn them of their approach with a couple of rings on their bell.
‘British Waterways encourages cyclists to use the towpaths, which can be an ideal way to make journeys in London while avoiding congested roads which are not the best place for cyclists. But cyclists need to appreciate that a bike whizzing past pedestrians at high speed can be threatening and even dangerous.
‘I’m very happy to have this job,’ Joseph adds, ‘I really enjoy being outdoors so much, although I must admit I’m looking forward to the summer months!’
British Waterways