At the time of writing, parts of the Leeds-Liverpool Canal were out of bounds to all forms of boats because of a shortage of water… and of course it rained practically every day after the closure was announced.

Hopefully, the rain has halted and the reservoirs that feed the canal are full enough to open up the waterway as this September edition appears.

Poor weather is bad enough for those involved with tourism but the canal closure is even worse for those with business interests within the boating community. There’s nothing better than a glowing September to end the summer, and Yorkshire’s canals and surrounding countryside have plenty to offer where changing colours and bright skies are concerned, as can be seen from our photographic special on canals in this months edition.

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In the September issue:

Headteacher’s triple challenge
Sheila Bowker meets Brian Beresford to find out about his role as headteacher of three Dales primary schools.

On Fremington Edge
Chris Franks recalls a day’s walking when he shared his thoughts with the skies above him.

Walking with Dalesman
Keith Wood walks along Gunnerside Gill up to the remains of an industrial landscape.

Unique film preserved
The Yorkshire Film Archive has been building up a special collection for everyone now to view, finds Andrew Gallon.

Roses unite to create magnificent new route Sheila Bowker finds out about an exciting new coast-to-coast cycle way.

Village’s fruitful project
Helen Johnson visits Husthwaite to see how a
major project to return to its roots is coming along.

Love in the mist
Martin Hickes discovers how a passion for art has helped two people triumph over adversity.

Yorkshire’s stonehenge
Trish Colton ventures into the woods to explore a fascinating site.