A FAMILY-run leisure boat hire business based in Riley Green has expanded its narrow boat fleet.

Through a mix of business loans and grants, Canal Boat Cruises has seen its fleet grow from two narrow boats to five, winning a tourism award in the process.

Business co-owner, Lesley Yates said: “When we set up the business seven years ago, we had two narrow boats.

“However, as demand has grown so has our fleet and we now have five holiday hire boats and a cruising restaurant and trip boat.

“We have funded our two most recent boats through Royal Bank of Scotland, using a mix of a £60,000 business loan and grants. “We took the decision to get funding from the bank so that we didn’t overstretch our cash flow and it also meant that we were able to budget for a higher spec boat than we would otherwise have been able to afford.”

Winner of the Lancashire Tourism and Leisure Award for 2013, Canal Boat Cruises said its reputation and personal service are its strengths.

In addition, the company said it is finding narrow boat holidays are becoming increasingly popular, particularly among professionals.

Lesley said: “A narrow boat holiday provides the perfect opportunity to relax and unwind, while enjoying the beautiful Lancashire countryside.

“We are also finding an increasing number of our customers are coming from outside the UK.

“We regularly accommodate people coming from Europe as well as Africa, America and New Zealand.”

The family, which comprises Lesley and her husband John, plus their three children Ellie, Bridie and Louis, are hoping to expand the marina even further next year.

They are also planning to grow the fleet further in future years.

Stuart McNaboe, relationship manager for Royal Bank of Scotland, said: “Lesley and John originally set up Canal Boat Cruises as a lifestyle business.

“However, the business has gone from strength to strength and we have every expectation that their expansion will continue.

“RBS is delighted to support this enterprising family business.”