British Waterways has dropped the idea of seeking funding for two huge gateway sculptures at either end of the Kennet and Avon Canal after consultation events gave it the thumbs down.

The sculptures, planned to be erected at either end of the canal to commemorate its 200th anniversary next year, were costed at £140,000, which would have to be raised through grants.

But members of the public attending roadshows at Bath, Devizes, Reading and Newbury in January preferred something more practical and less expensive.

British Waterways communications manager Susie Mercer said: “The plan now is to completely rewrite the brief to achieve exactly that: a pleasing, visual welcome to the waterway that commemorates this important milestone in its history and has some kind of use or function within the waterside environment.

“It could be a bench, a gate or some other artefact that makes up the canalside setting.”

But destination panels at sites along the length of the canal have fired up parish councils much more.

In Wiltshire councils at Devizes, Bishops Cannings, Bradford on Avon and Rowde have all pledged funds towards the project.

Ms Mercer said: “All Cannings is keen to take part and has set aside £250 and is hoping to raise the other £250 through local events and sponsorship and Great Bedwyn has appointed a special community fundraiser to raise their £500 contribution.”

Some parish councils have already chosen wildlife to feature on their panel. Rowde managed to get in first to choose the kingfisher.

Ms Mercer said: “Rowde also deserves a special mention for having already raised a further £375 in corporate sponsorship towards their panel from local businesses.”