On the lookout for ‘friendly faces’ on River Lee

The Canal & River Trust are looking for people to volunteer on the waterway and help to welcome visitors and tourists to the area.

Volunteers will be based at their welcome station, on the waterside, a short walk from the town centre. The role will see the volunteers join the organisation and be on hand to talk to visitors, highlight points of interest and answer any queries people might have. There is also the option to help to look after the river, including working on towpath improvements and lock gate painting. Volunteers would ideally be able to commit to a minimum of one day a fortnight.

Debbie Vidler, Canal & River Trust volunteer development co-ordinator, says: ‘The River Lee in Ware is a beautiful spot away from the busy streets; a great place to relax and unwind. We’re on the lookout for volunteers to join us and become the friendly face of the river here, ready to welcome people and help them get the most out of their visit.”

Regardless of whether people are boating, running, walking or cycling, the Canal & River Trust believe that being by the water is a great way to spend your time. Their volunteers say that they get a huge amount out of working by the water too. It’s a chance to be outdoors and meet new people.

Make a real difference in the community
Eleanor Anthony is one of a number of volunteers currently working at the welcome station. She says: “since opening the Ware welcome station, it’s given us a chance to engage with the many varied people along the towpath. The team of volunteers we work with are also great fun and as well as trying to keep the towpath and surrounding areas clean we do have a laugh. All in all, it’s a worthwhile cause and would most certainly recommend it to anyone thinking about volunteering.”

Applications are now open, with a starting date of 1 June. To apply and to find out about other volunteering opportunities with the Canal & River Trust, visit www.canalrivertrust.org.uk