Dave Manby wrote in message ...
The majority of the population of Llangollen is on our side and the
chamber of commerce is involved. But a total boycott would emphasize the
benefit we bring to the town

What about some kind of small but noticable poster or window sticker
along the lines of "we miss the paddlers". Businesses (and homes) in
the town could display these in support of access to the river. This
show of solidarity from locals, if widely taken up, would be a real
coup.

Another idea would be a non paddling rally. Mass in the town one
Saturday; drink the beer, use the shops, eact the chips but most
importantly show strength of numbers. This is the of thing the media
will pick up. Walk the length of the river carrying your boats. A
similar stunt at Stanley (Tay, Scotland) was a success.

Obviously it could backfire if we create the sort of problems that we
know a large group of paddlers can create, but if it can be managed it
should make quite a statement.

What we would really like, I think, is to have access to the river
throughout the closed fishing season.

What, I think, you would really, really like is access 365 days a
year. Responsible access, free access. One day!