VOLUNTEERS who helped save the Kennet and Avon Canal are once again working on the waterway.

The voluntary workers who carried out much of the labour that rescued the derelict canal originally are back in demand.

It was thanks to those who gave their time that crumbling locks were rebuilt and miles of dry waterway reclaimed.

Eventually the project to restore the 87 mile canal that connects the Bristol Avon with the River Kennet and the Thames was completed in 2002 and marked with a visit by Prince Charles in 2003.

Now a new Volunteer Partnership has been established and has started with some essential works to many of the canal locks.

At Crofton, by the historic beam engines, Kennet and Avon Canal Trust volunteers have been trained by British Waterways staff and are installing special metal handles to the lock gates.

These are essential additional safety features to assist in the opening of the gates as boats pass through. Terry Kemp of the Kennet and Avon Canal Trust said volunteering partnerships were not new along the waterway.

The history of the Kennet and Avon Canal Trust and the canal revealed a long and successful involvement with volunteering, he said.

Whilst in the past the focus would have been on the canal restoration mud digging activities, said Mr Kemp, in reality there was also a significant amount of political and fundraising volunteer work being undertaken as well.

Trust fundraising had continued, he said, with its operation of shops and boat trips on the canal.

Mr Kemp said: "However there is still an enthusiasm to be involved with towpath and waterway works, which British Waterways is keen to rekindle.

"The present lock works is the start of this programme."

Anyone wishing to join the Volunteer Partnership should contact the Kennet and Avon Canal Trust on (01380) 721279.