The first boat to go through Chaddington Lock for 100 years, rowed by Chaloner Chute with passengers Oliver and Doreen Darby Picture Ref: 76958-48 FOR the first time in more than 100 years, a boat has passed through Chaddington Lock, near Wootton Bassett.

Just a few years ago the lock was an eyesore filled with debris and overgrown.

But now this part of the Wilts and Berks Canal has been returned to its Victorian glory.

Volunteers from the Wilts and Berks Canal Trust have restored the lock.

Chaloner Chute, North Wiltshire District Council's canal officer said: "It's been a fantastic effort. The lock was overgrown, although the foundations were mostly in place.

"Volunteers have worked for years to bring it back to working order.

"It goes to show that work on the canal is beginning to quicken and that this project can work."

Dozens of townspeople from Wootton Bassett, including local councillors, turned out to witness the historic occasion and watched as a bright blue and yellow ribbon was cut and a 105-year-old skiff boat, called Emily, passed through the lock gates.

The project marks a milestone in restoring the canal between Wootton Bassett and Swindon.