A TOWN'S mayor is backing a bid for Lottery funds to remind people of their industrial heritage.

Coun Richard Morris has urged Droitwich people to "help put the Wych back into Droitwich Spa" by voting for a scheme to build a replica Wych barge in Vines Park.

Wych barges were used to carry Droitwich salt from the Vines area to the River Severn for distribution around the country, helping to build the town's prosperity.

The community project for a static barge containing picnic benches and information about the canals and salt industry is part of a plan to restore Droitwich canals.

Once built, it could enhance school history lessons, bring young and old together through reminiscence workshops and provide a centrepiece for community theatre.

The Big Lottery Fund and ITV have teamed up on a new television programme, People's Millions, giving people a chance to vote for projects that will benefit the community.

The Wych Barge project will face the public vote on Tuesday, November 1, on ITV Central News.

"I urge our townspeople to watch the programme and vote for this initiative," said the Mayor.

"Anything that supports the continuation of our unique history and tradition, I believe, is so important.

"Let's show the Midlands area how important our town is. We need everyone's vote to help Droitwich win."

Droitwich canals restoration plan is managed by British Waterways in partnership with the Waterways Trust, Droitwich Canals Trust, Worcester- shire County Council and Wychavon District Council.

Kim Chester, development manager with the Waterways Trust, said the project to create a replica Wych barge was tremendously exciting.

It would combine three elements, providing a place to relax, learn and play.

"This type of barge is unique to Droitwich as it was made to suit the size of canals in the town.

"There are none in existence today and this project is a fantastic way of capturing these memories before they disappear," she said.