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Public invited to 'unlock' iconic canal role

1st Dec 2011

Waterway lovers are being offered the chance to volunteer as a lock keeper for the Canal & River Trust, the charity that takes over British Waterways’ responsibility for 2,000 miles of waterways in England & Wales in April 2012.

A campaign will be launched at the beginning of January, looking for people to take on this iconic role on their local canals.

Lock keepers have been a fixture on the canals throughout their history. The role of the modern-day lock keeper is to provide a polite and friendly welcome to waterway visitors, assist boaters through the locks and help to maintain the area around the locks.

The roles are available in more than 50 locations across the country. Members of the public, canal societies and anyone with a passion for their local canal or river have the opportunity to be a part of with one of the oldest traditions of the waterways.

To find out more, email volunteer@britishwaterways.co.uk. Willing volunteers can start quickly and no prior experience is necessary as a full induction, training and a uniform will be provided.

Last updated: 08/12/2011

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