THE early days of canals will be celebrated at the National Waterways Museum with the Horses At Work event.

Heavy horses will be visiting the museum to give a demonstration of horse-drawn canal boating on Sunday, August 5.

Visitors will also be able to see costumed performances, a harnessing demonstration and join tours of the site which highlight the horse-powered history of canals.

Horse-drawn cart rides will be running on the day, taking visitors on a loop of the waterfront, and for youngsters there will be pony rides available from Parkgate Pony Sanctuary.

Marketing manager Oliver Briscoe said: “Horses at Work has really carved out a place in our museum calendar over the last few years, and this year should be a good edition.

“It’s a real link back to the early history of canals – after all, the stables at the museum are among the oldest buildings in Ellesmere Port.

“The museum will be brought to life and there will be plenty for visitors to see and do – both experts and families will have a great day out at this atmospheric event.”

For more information, call 0151 355 5017 or visit www.nwm.org.uk.