CANAL & RIVER TRUST is requiring more volunteers at Foxton Flight.
To not only help the boaters through the locks but to welcome people and giving local information about the area.
The trust telling that volunteers provide an invaluable service in helping boaters through the locks and lending a hand to Canal & River Trust colleagues who look after the canals. With many people enjoying their local towpaths as a place to walk and relax, lock keeper volunteers also play a key role in making sure boaters and people enjoy their visit.
A busy year
Linny Beaumont, regional director, explained:
"It promises to be a busy year on our waterways with boaters heading out onto the water and people taking the opportunity to book boating holidays. Our volunteer lock keepers play a key role in keeping things running smoothly and helping visitors and boaters with their local knowledge, with the opportunity to chat with people face-to-face in the great outdoors.
"Volunteering at the trust is open to everyone, it is flexible and offers a rewarding experience where you can really make a difference. Those who help our charity are doing something positive for their local community, connecting, meeting new friends, and making a big difference to the canals and rivers that matter to them.
"You don’t necessarily need experience of boating or working on the waterways, the most important things we’re looking for are enthusiasm, willingness to learn and a friendly manner. It’s a wonderful opportunity to keep the tradition of lock keeping alive."
(Adjoining image by Canal & River Trust)
Full training
People of all ages (over 18) and experiences are encouraged to apply and full training will be provided. The trust is looking for people who have at least one day a week available, with lock keepers due to be on duty until October.
Visitors to the flight on the Leicester Section of the Grand Union Canal can find out more about the Inclined Plane at Foxton Canal Museum and enjoy something to eat or drink at the site’s pubs and cafes.