The first Commissioners
The first meeting of the Commissioners, named by the Act, was held at the Blue Bell Inn (now called the Bell Hotel), Driffield, on 17th June 1767. They appointed William Porter's son Richard, as engineer. He was fairly quickly replaced by Samuel Allen. on John Grundy’s recommendation. He was replaced in May 1768 by James Dyson in Partnership with James Pinkerton. The work proceeded apace. On 21st November 1769, the YORK COURANT carried a report that the Canal had been completed to Wansford, after it had been inspected by four Commissioners led by John Outram. ‘to ascertain whether the respective workmen have fulfilled their agreements". On 25th May 1770, the paper carried a report that the line was open throughout its full length from Driffield to Fisholme. The Toll Collector, William Whitby, was appointed at a salary of £40 per year, and the Navigation was In business. To promote trade, and in keeping with the original object of providing an amenity to the town rather than making a profit, tolls were set well below the statutory limits with Coal at 2s. a chaldron, and Merchandise at 3s. per ton.