Canal mysteriously drains

The empty pound at Lock 48 at Ealees, Littleborough

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This is the shocking image of an empty pound on the Rochdale Canal.

Taken on Friday morning (8 June), the pound at Lock 48 at Ealees, Littleborough shows plenty of mud, and very little water.

It is unknown why the pound drained suddenly, but is understood to have begun to refill by the afternoon.

Passerby Linda Glossop said: “I returned at 4.30pm and it was slowly filling in again. This happens on a regular basis, but the reason is not clear. The lock gates are extremely old and this factor could be a cause, plus youths have been known to get them slightly open.

“Responsible boat owners would not intentionally leave them so there are a few factors to consider. I walk that stretch a lot and it is distressing to see it suddenly drain.”

The Canal and River Trust has been contacted for comment.