The Baldwin Trust Hosts VIP Event Celebrating Community Success on Board Halseyon Days
The Baldwin Trust, a Leicestershire based narrowboat charity, welcomed distinguished guests aboard their specially designed narrowboat, Halseyon Days, for a special VIP event celebrating a successful sailing season and raising awareness of its vital work.
Founded in 1983, the Baldwin Trust has over 40 years of service to the community, offering private, crewed narrowboat cruises for family, friends and community groups. As a volunteer-led charity, the Trust provides trips for individuals and groups who might otherwise face challenges and barriers to enjoying the therapeutic effects of time on the water.
The VIP event welcomed 12 guests, including local councillors and community organisations, with the Mayor of Charnwood, Cllr David Northage, as guest of honour. Guests had the opportunity to learn about the Trust’s history and achievements, view Halseyon Days’ facilities—including wheelchair lift and accessible toilet—and view a recently launched British Sign Language (BSL) signed information and safety video. To add to the experience, guests were invited to take the tiller and steer the boat during a short cruise along the river, receiving their own steering certificate to mark the occasion.
During the event, the Chair of Trustees, Richard Jayes, delivered an engaging talk outlining the highlights of the 2025 season, the ongoing challenges faced by the charity, and the profound impact of Supported Cruises. The talk emphasised the Trust’s commitment to supporting people of all ages, especially those with physical disabilities, learning difficulties, and individuals experiencing social isolation. Richard also reflected on the dedication of Baldwin Trust volunteers and the importance of continuing to improve accessibility and inclusion on local waterways.
The event aimed to raise awareness of the Baldwin Trust’s work and celebrate a season of approaching 200 trips delivered against a challenging backdrop of waterway closures from weather and other incidents. The gathering provided a platform for local leaders and stakeholders to discuss ways to support the Trust’s mission and ensure that future generations can enjoy the benefits of accessible boating.
Chair of Trustees Richard Jayes said: “We are proud of our volunteers and supporters, whose passion makes our work possible. We thank all guests who took time out to attend this event, to see for themselves what makes the Baldwin Trust such a special charity to be involved with and to support.”
Mayor of Charnwood, Cllr Northage said “It’s been a pleasure to see first hand the excellent facilities the Baldwin Trust offers on its narrowboats, and to hear how the Trust is benefitting such a diverse range of groups within our area.”
To learn more about the Baldwin Trust, book a cruise, or get involved as a volunteer or supporter, please visit https://www.baldwintrust.co.uk or email secretary@baldwintrust.co.uk.
