Regent's Canal Towpath

The public are being asked to keep up a centuries-old tradition by manning one of the busiest locks on the historic Regent’s Canal.

The Canal & River Trust, the charity that now runs the canal after taking over from British Waterways last summer, is calling for volunteer lock keepers to be stationed at City Road Lock in Islington.

Recruits will be expected to welcome visitors both by towpath and by water, offering a little canal knowledge and ensuring the lock is properly used and well maintained.

They will be continuing a tradition that has been a fixture throughout the canal’s 200 year history.

Debbie Vidler, volunteer coordinator at the Canal & River Trust, said: “It’s a very important role and as well as welcoming visitors and providing some local knowledge, volunteers will help to ensure the lock is being properly used.

“This is important in order to conserve water and also to make sure it doesn’t get damaged. The way people move through the lock affects the amount of water that is used and over the summer, it’s very important to conserve water.”

Ms Vidler added that no experience is necessary and training will be given. Visit www.canalrivertrust.org.uk/volunteer or ring 0303 040 4040 to sign up.