New Wheelchair-Accessible ‘Pennine Queen’ Boat Launched at Hollingworth Lake
Hollingworth Lake has taken a major step toward inclusive outdoor activity with the launch of its first fully wheelchair-accessible Wheelyboat, the Pennine Queen. The new vessel, operated by YourTrust at Hollingworth Lake Activity Centre, was officially unveiled this week by the Mayor of Rochdale, Councillor Janet Emsley, who cut the ribbon before taking the boat’s inaugural trip on the water.
The launch marks a historic milestone for the Activity Centre, which has never previously offered a fully accessible boat for public use. The Pennine Queen will allow wheelchair users and people with mobility impairments to enjoy pleasure cruises, group sessions, and even powerboat training leading to recognised qualifications.
Participants from one of the Centre’s disability support groups were among the first to experience the boat in action on launch day, taking in the views of the lake aboard the modern, safety-equipped vessel.
Estelle Rowe, CEO of YourTrust, said the introduction of the Pennine Queen represents a significant leap toward inclusive recreation:
“We are incredibly proud to launch the Pennine Queen – the first fully accessible Wheelyboat at Hollingworth Lake. Inclusivity is at the heart of everything we do at YourTrust, and this boat has been designed to provide independence, flexibility and safety for everyone who uses it. We’re excited to see the boat take plenty of people on voyages in the months and years to come.”
The project has been supported by a wide range of charitable funders, including The Wheelyboat Trust, the ALA Green Charitable Trust, the Alpkit Foundation, the Anton Jurgens Charitable Trust, the Greenhall Foundation, the Harold and Alice Bridges Charity, the Lennox Hannay Charitable Trust, the Manson Family Charitable Trust, the Middlesex Sports Foundation and the WO Street Charitable Foundation.
The name Pennine Queen pays homage to Hollingworth Lake’s heritage, recalling a passenger boat of the same name that operated on the water during the 1950s, and celebrating the area’s position within the Pennine Township.
Councillor Susan Smith, Portfolio Holder for Communities and Cooperation, welcomed the addition:
“For residents living with disabilities, the Pennine Queen opens up new opportunities to enjoy nature, community and recreation on the water. It’s a fantastic addition to Hollingworth Lake and a real step forward for inclusive activity in Rochdale.”
Public trips aboard the Pennine Queen are expected to begin in Spring, with YourTrust set to release further details closer to the launch.
For more information, contact Hollingworth Lake Activity Centre on 01706 370499 or email holwac@yourtrustrochdale.co.uk