The Canal Shop is owned by Richard and Lesley Saillet. Richard works in the shop every day (except Mondays). Lesley works mostly behind the scenes, but helps in the shop at weekends.

They originally had holidays on narrowboats back in the early 80’s, before starting their own narrowboat hire business in 1989. This was expanded along with a service and chandlery business at Welford during 1996 & 1997. Following a four year break running a Post Office, they returned to the canals in 2001 taking over the business of Whilton Chandlery and merging it with Saisons, their narrowboat hire business.

Assisting them on weekdays are Wendy, Linda, Jean, and Mike. These live on narrowboats so have a good understanding of boaters’ needs.

On Saturdays Mike and Matt or Jo help, while on Sundays Mike is on hand. On both days at weekends Jean helps too.