THE water of Whixall Marina played the perfect background last weekend as celebrations for its 50th anniversary were carried out by owners.

To celebrate the milestone occasion, Whixall Marina hosted a celebratory event for current moorers and people with a close connection to the marina.

Following an online call-out, people who share a history with the marina were invited to bring along historical photographs and memorabilia to the informal gathering.

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A photographic exhibition depicting historical changes Whixall Marina has seen over the last 50 years was showcased in the site’s waterside café where guests were also treated to refreshments.

Chris Chambers, the marina’s first manager who attended the event, and he was delighted to have the opportunity to recall his days at the marina during the 1970s.

He said: “I lived on-site for two years as the marl pit was dredged and moulded into the marina that we see today.

“It was great fun because we felt we were literally breaking new ground, creating on the one hand a lovely hidden canal community and, at the same time, meeting the predicted growth in the canal industry during the early 70s.”

Whixall Marina’s current property and estate manager, Louise Allmark, said the opportunity to put on a party to celebrate the memories and history of the site was too good to turn down.

She said: “The evening was an excellent way to recognise the rich history of the marina. It was great to bring together the community and provide the opportunity for people to reconnect and reminisce about our special site.”

A second event in celebration of the anniversary is being held later this month and is open to everyone who wants to celebrate the marina’s history.

A spokesman for the marina added: “Open to the public, the event will take place at the marina on Sunday, July 21 between 2pm-5pm.

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“Visitors can expect a barbecue, children’s games, and musical entertainment for the community to enjoy.”

Also at the party at the weekend was the marina’s owners Linda and David Grocott, the brother and sister management team who have been in charge since acquiring it in March 2017.

The pair opened up a new café on site in 2018 as part of its commitment to attracting tourism and boaters to the area.