There was also a Radio Ballad-type documentary called "They Brought The Sea To Manchester." I have it on reel-reel tape if I can find it. I think it features some songs too. In January 1894 Queen Victoria declared the canal open without leaving her carriage which was a par for the course for her. Apparently when the lock paddles were opened the pressure of the water was so great several villages / towns got well flooded as the canal filled up.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manchester_Ship_Canal