A MAJOR investigation is underway following the sensational blockage of the Leeds to Liverpool canal in Whittle-le-Woods which has left many families on holiday stranded in their boats.

British Waterways inspectors have been at the scene since Monday afternoon surveying the impact of the blockage which may have a detrimental effect to local canalboat businesses throughout Chorley.

The incident happened when land next to the canal became too heavy, forcing the canal bed to rise to the surface -- a term waterways' inspectors refer to as an "inverted slippage".

The piece of land is currently being developed as part of a complex next to the Malthouse Farm pub on Moss Lane, Whittle-le-Woods.

Inspectors are unsure just how long it will take to clear the blockage, following claims from canalboat businesses that it could affect their livelihoods.

Shaun Smith, 31, who has owned Boatel Party Cruises of Chorley for the last ten years, says he will be seeking compensation if the problem is not sorted out quickly.

He said: "This blockage could well affect our trade because canal boats can not get through. "I'm still trying to find out the full facts, but I will be looking in to the possibility of compensation if this is not sorted out soon."

He added that his company is still open for business as the blockage only restricts the one route.

Another business which has been affected by the blockage is L&L Cruises in Charnock Richard.

Owner Diane Clulton, who has owned the boatyard since 1989, says it may have a serious affect on their trade.

She said: "There are a couple of families which are stranded further down the canal. If they can't get through soon, we will have to go and pick them up.

"I just hope this problem is sorted out soon."

David Young, a spokesman for British Waterways, added: "At the moment we can see the effect, but we don't know the exact cause.

"We have inspectors down in Whittle-le-Woods at the moment as we are conducting a full investigation to find out what exactly happened."