WOULD-be lockkeepers are being sought to control two locks in the Nantwich area.

The Canal and River Trust and ITV presenter Penny Smith are inviting people to take up the challenge to become a volunteer lock keeper this summer, working at some of Cheshire’s most popular historic canal locks.

The initiative hopes to find volunteer controllers for Hurleston Locks and Bunbury Locks on the Shropshire Union Canal.

Ideal candidates will enjoy spending time outdoors while meeting people in their local community. Penny Smith, who is backing the campaign, said: “I am a huge fan of Britain’s canals - they're fascinating and calming in equal measure. “As someone who is indoors a lot either in a studio at 6am when presenting my breakfast show on BBC London or working from home.

“I see the work of the volunteer lock keepers as a great excuse to get out into the fresh air, meet the locals, get fit and make new friends. You might fall in love, even if it's only with a heron!"

Interested parties should visit canalrivertrust.org.uk/volunteer