Local volunteers encouraged to swap lockdown for ‘locking down’ as canal charity prepares for bumper summer of boating

Waterways and wellbeing charity, the Canal and River Trust, has launched a campaign to recruit more volunteers to take on the iconic role of lock keeper as it prepares for a busy year on the North West’s waterways.

With coronavirus restrictions scheduled to ease over the coming months, and more people expected to be taking boating holidays in this country, the charity is appealing for volunteers to help keep North West waterways - including at Diggle Lock Flight in the Saddleworth - running smoothly.

Lock keepers have been part of waterway life for hundreds of years and today volunteers provide an invaluable service in helping boaters through locks and also lending a hand to the Canal and River Trust staff who look after the canal.

With many people discovering their local towpath as a local place to escape and relax, the volunteers also play an important role in welcoming people and giving local information about the area.

The Trust is specifically looking to recruit volunteers at:

Diggle Lock Flight, Saddleworth on Huddersfield Narrow Canal

Barrowford and Greenberfield on Leeds and Liverpool Canal

Blackburn Locks on Leeds and Liverpool Canal

Middlewich on the Shropshire Union Canal

Redbull, Church Lawton on the Trent and Mersey Canal

River Weaver Navigation

Volunteer lock keepers give time, ideally a day a week, on a shift basis between April-October, while many stay on over the winter months to help the Trust with other work.

The roles are covid secure and full training will be provided virtually.

People of all ages (over 18) and experiences are encouraged to apply.

Steve Bergquist from the Canal and River Trust said: “It promises to be a busy year on the North West waterways with boaters starting to head out onto the water as restrictions allow and people taking the opportunity to book boating holidays.

"Our volunteer lock keepers will play a key role in keeping things running smoothly and helping visitors and boaters with their local knowledge.

“It’s the perfect post-lockdown role as in most cases you’ll be socially distanced as part of a small team, but with the opportunity to chat with people face-to-face in the great outdoors.

“You don’t necessarily need experience of boating or working on the waterways, the most important things we’re looking for are enthusiasm, willingness to learn and a friendly manner.

"It’s a great opportunity to keep the tradition of lock keeping alive while looking after your health and mental wellbeing.”

To apply for a volunteer role, or to find out more, visit: www.canalrivertrust.org.uk/volunteer

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