ONE in 20 boys believes octopuses lurk in Britain’s canals, while nearly one in five eight-year-olds thinks that the man-made waterways were built as homes for the ducks.
The findings are part of a poll for Wild Over Waterways (Wow), set up to educate children about Britain’s network of canals and rivers. The survey of more than 600 children aged seven to 14 found that almost half did not not know that canals were man-made.
Four out of 10 youngsters did not realise canals were built to transport people and goods, and 13 per cent of youngsters believed they were designed to cool down the earth or catch rainwater.
Roger Hanbury, chief executive of the Waterways Trust, said: “Many children nowadays know little of the fascinating history and diverse wildlife on Britain’s inland waterways.
“And yet Britain’s canals and rivers are an unrivalled education resource that spans science, technology and the arts. Today’s children are missing out on so much.”
Wow has been set up by British Waterways, the Waterways Trust and the Inland Waterways Association. As well as planning outdoor events for children, Wow has produced materials designed for use in primary schools.
Dave Fletcher, British Waterways chief executive, said: “We believe Wow will enthuse and inspire children, making use of teaching resources and methods in an exciting and appealing way, while bringing the wonder and charm of the waterways into the classroom.”
The survey of 646 seven to 14-year-olds was carried out by Access, the Omnibus Division of pollsters BMRB International.
