All ABOARD!

Narrowboater EMMA CULSHAW BELL on making waves on the waterways

- TESS LAMACRAFT

NARROW ESCAPES 

NEW MONDAY-FRIDAY, 4PM, C4 FACTUAL

Have you ever wondered what it's like to navigate the world of narrowboat living? Well, a new C4 series, Narrow Escapes, is set to showcase the realities of life on board as it embarks on a voyage to meet some of the people who have made the UK's canal network their home or workplace.

Among those sharing their stories during the 20-part run is Lancashire-based decorative artist and solo boater Emma Culshaw Bell, who's the proud owner of recently renovated 30ft narrowboat Dawn Piper.

Here, in an exclusive interview, Emma, 57, who has three grownup children, tells TV Times all about her floating abode...

What attracted you to narrowboating, Emma?

I kind of fell into it! I had friends with narrowboats and I'd always thought it was a great idea. Then, two and a half years ago, I made the impulsive decision to buy my own. I had this romantic idea that I'd restore it all myself. It took about six months to do that and I went 300% over my budget! 

Did you start to have second thoughts?