It is currently looking for volunteer lock keepers for Marsworth, Napton, Stoke Bruerne, Braunston, Buckby, Hillmorton and Soulbury (pictured).
Encourage more
Bill Smith, British Waterways' Waterway Team Leader confirmed:
"Earlier this year we recruited a number of volunteer lock keepers who have already completed their training, and are out on the canal network helping to look after the locks, as well as welcoming visitors to some of the waterways most picturesque spots.
"The first group of volunteer lock keepers are working very well, and we'd like to encourage more people to come forward and volunteer with British Waterways at more sites and help care for their local, historic waterway."
Central to plans
Volunteering is central to British Waterway's plans in England and Wales to move the canals and rivers out of state control and into a new waterways charity by April 2012. It is hoping this move will attract new investment and give local people a greater role in how their waterways are run—including the opportunity to get involved in a growing number of volunteering prospects, with Caroline Killeavy, Head of Community Engagement for British Waterways explaining:
"Lock keepers are the face of the waterways. It is a great opportunity for volunteers wishing to get more involved in their local waterways, meet lots of people and spend time outdoors in some beautiful surroundings. With the new waterways charity launching in April 2012, this is an exciting time for volunteering at British Waterways."
Volunteer lock keeper opportunities are flexible, and British Waterways is looking for people to give their time during the week and at weekends. Full training will be given and all volunteers will also be given a uniform.