NEW volunteer lock keepers are being sought for locks at Northwich, Middlewich, Crewe and Nantwich.

The Canal and river Trust is seeking to recruit keepers on the canal network across Cheshire, Shropshire, Powys and Denbighshire.

Lock keepers have been part of canal life for hundreds of years, and volunteer lock keepers play an important role in keeping the age-old tradition alive.

The role of the modern day volunteer lock keeper is to help look after the waterways, including assisting boaters through locks, providing a friendly welcome to visitors and keeping the canal looking its best.

Volunteer lock keepers are being sought for Bunbury Locks, Shropshire Union Canal, mid Cheshire; Hunts and Vale Royal Locks on the Weaver Navigation, Northwich; Cholmondeston Lock, Shropshire Union Canal, Middlewich Branch, Nantwich; Hurleston Lock, Llangollen Canal, Nantwich; Audlem on the Shropshire Union Canal, Crewe; Middlewich Locks, Trent and Mersey Canal.

Local waterway manager Wendy Capelle said: “Volunteer lock keepers do a fantastic job.

“They really are the friendly face of the Trust and boaters love them. The role involves talking to boaters, helping them through locks, telling them about the local area and the history of the canal.

“The volunteers all receive training before the seasonal role gets under way around Easter time. They play a vital role within our waterway team, keeping customers happy and the canals in good working order.

“Volunteers can be of any age, as long as they’re reasonably fit and healthy, enjoy working outdoors and meeting new people.”

For more details visit canalrivertrust.org.uk.