Pictured: Raffy Tentindo, manager of the Living Environment Trust

One of the Midlands most unusual meeting venues is set for a buoyant future after undergoing a £20,000 refurbishment.

The Coventrian narrowboat, which is operated by the Living Environment Trust, has undergone a complete makeover in order to prepare it for its latest Maritime and Coastguard Association (MCA) safety inspection.

The improvements, which were funded by a host of local organisations and contributors, included modifications to the hull and engine room, the replacement of cabin lights and new flooring.

Improvements have come just in time for the boat as it gears up for a surge in demand for hire in the run up to Christmas on top of the regular business meetings and themed cruises hosted by the Midlands' floating meeting venue.

It holds up to 24 people seated or 40 standing and is fully equipped with a kitchen, licensed bar and tables and chairs, with music and karaoke available and is now experiencing hire demand. 

Raffy Tentindo, manager of the Living Environment Trust, said: "We are expecting a big surge of bookings ahead of the festive season as our Christmas cruises are always extremely popular with families, groups and businesses.

"These improvements will allow us to continue to host the myriad of events and cruises we offer and provide the highest quality surroundings to our guests."

Measuring 25-metres-long, the Coventrian is also a venue for entertainment, hosting a wide range of themed cruises all year round, and serves as a water taxi for supporters of Coventry City FC heading to the Ricoh Arena.

A second phase of improvements is scheduled for later in the year when the interior of the boat will be decorated before the third and final phase takes place when the outside of the boat is given a new lick of paint.