FRANCIS J. BATTEN

The untimely death of Francis J Batten on 9th September 2009 is a significant chapter in the River Stour Trust's history. We are saddened to have lost a friend and ardent supporter of the Trust's work. As a Vice President of the Trust, Francis made it his business to know what was going on and to offer advice and support. Francis was a founding member of the RST and served as Chairman of Council at a decisive time in the Trust's history. He represented the Trust when the water authority at that time sought to remove the right of navigation on the Stour. The subsequent successful hearing at the House of Lords ensured that the right of navigation continues to this day - unbroken since 1705.

He was totally committed to the restoration of the river and  his unwavering enthusiasm and interest in the current Stratford St Mary Lock restoration works, as demonstrated by his frequent site visits, has been a great source of encouragement to us and will be greatly missed.