A NEW sculptural signpost has been installed in Vines Park to highlight the furthest navigable places a person could reach from the Droitwich canals, as well as being a work of art.

The signpost is made from oak and stands at three metres tall, designed and carved by Tom Harvey, who works as an expert in large scale wood carvings, and has produced many of the wooden sculptures in Wychavon’s parks.

The signpost was unveiled by district councillors Andrew and Wendy Dyke, who helped to raise the money required back in 2009 and 2010 when Andrew was chairman of Wychavon District Council and named Droitwich Canals Trust as one of his chosen charities.

Lynn Stevens, parks officer at Wychavon District Council, said: “The sign, which is as much a work of art as it is informative, points to the furthest places attainable on the inland waterway system in each direction, be that north, south, east or west. The boards mark the waterway distance in miles, as well as the number of locks, bridges and tunnels that a narrow boat would encounter along the way if it was to set-off from Droitwich.”

Councillor Andrew Dyke added: “I could not be more delighted with the new signpost. I know visitors to the area will stop and read the information and appreciate the artistry for many years to come. Over the years Wendy and I have visited all of the places mentioned on the signpost as we’ve travelled along our wonderful waterway system in our own narrow boat, the Lord Toulouse.”