Ged Layfield

Following successful careers in the army (Royal Artillery) and the Police Service, the desire to operate his own canal related business had been maturing for some 25 years, in fact ever since he took his first canal boat holiday. The dream came true in 1999 and having really enjoyed the work and the lifestyle, he has deferred plans to retire in favour of further expanding Macclesfield Canal Centre and its sister company, Freedom Boats. Himself a keen narrow boater, he and Marilyn can be found aboard their 70 foot trad "Jigsaw" although the requirements of business do not allow as much time for cruising as they would wish.
Ged is a qualified Boat Master.

Nick Cope

Nick has been, throughout his career, in all aspects of retailing; the majority of which in retail management. Until recently, working for one of the largest fashion chains in Europe.
After 40 years in that business he decided to retire from High Street retailing and embark on something totally new. He invested in and became a director of Freedom Boats Ltd.
Narrow boating has been his long time passion and five years ago he bought a 65 footer, now spending as much time on it as his new role permits.
Nick is a qualified Boat Master.

Marilyn Layfield

Marilyn has always enjoyed a challenge, having raised 2 children whilst also building a career as a manager in Social work (care of the elderly). Soon after retiring she found herself involved in building the business base at Macclesfield Canal Centre with Ged. After briefly considering selling the business and moving into full time retirement, she now occupies herself in the management of the hire section of Freedom Boats, directing the financial affairs of the company and motivating the men - who all think she would have made a very good Clerk of Works! Freedom Boats is very much her special project. She has committed herself to ensuring that all our customers get the very best that we can provide. She has exacting standards and has applied a very personal touch to equipping and furnishing our boats. It is true to say that the hire boats are her pride and joy.