The Canal & River Trust are looking for volunteers to join towpath taskforce teams

The Canal & River Trust are appealing for volunteers to join towpath taskforces at canal visitor hotspots in Chester, Audlem, Anderton Boat Lift, near Northwich, and at Trevor Basin, looking after the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and the Llangollen Canal World Heritage Site.

As the busy summer season approaches, they’re keen to recruit new volunteers who enjoy the big outdoors to help with the challenging task of caring for 2,000 miles of canals across England and Wales.

No experience is necessary to join one of these practical work parties, which meet at least once a month, to carry out tasks such as hedge-laying, repairing bridges, grass cutting, vegetation clearance and painting lock gates.

Volunteering opportunities are available with the Chester Towpath Taskforce which meets on the last Saturday of each month, Audlem on the second Saturday, Anderton Boat Lift on the first Wednesday and Trevor Basin on the second Wednesday.

Jason Watts, Canal & River Trust volunteer coordinator explained: “We have a mammoth task keeping our canals looking their best for visitors. Volunteers play a vital role in ensuring essential maintenance tasks get carried out so everyone enjoys these popular waterside locations.

“The camaraderie amongst the teams is great and for people who enjoy working outdoors in the fresh air, it is the perfect way to make a positive contribution to your local community and do something really worthwhile.”