WALKERS in the Huntington Road area of York may have thought they had travelled back in time when a barge was steered up the River Foss.

The former Grand Union Canal Company freight carrier Victoria became the first vessel of its type for decades to enter the river at Castle Mills Bridge. Owner of the 1931 barge, Michael Askin, who is travelling the canals of Britain, wanted to experience navigating what once was a busy city route for traders.

Victoria is still in the condition it was in its working days and is powered by a Lister JP2 engine, giving the barge a very distinctive sound when under way.

Mr Askin was accompanied by his father, Colin, who along with his narrow boat, Kismet, provided back up in case of difficulties that might have been encountered.