Tuel Lane Tunnel (West end)

Tuel Lock in Sowerby Bridge is the deepest single rise on the canal system. To conserve water the lower gates are a double set with the first pair used if less than 60 ft boats, otherwise the second apir are at 70 ft length. The lower gates are so heavy they are wound open and closed on geared mechanisms. The chamber has a single set of ground paddles that fill via a total of 6 sluices simultaneously to give a fast but smooth ascent. The cill on the upper gates is moulded from concete in a v shape to minimize the risk of rudder grounding on descent. The lock is manned full time by a very amiable lock-keeper. To steady the boats ropes are looped around riser cables on the lock walls