The renaissance of Wiltshire's waterways will be discussed at a major conference organised by the Wilts and Berks Canal Trust on Saturday April 23.

The future of the region's largest waterway project is due to come into the spotlight so supporters and other stakeholders are invited to attend the event and find out about the progress of the mammoth scheme, which is expected to eventually cost more than £100 million.

Right across the county long forgotten canals are being dug out, renovated and restored, bringing a part of Wiltshire's industrial heritage back into the light.

Ken Oliver, chairman of the trust, will reveal the charity's Ten Year Plan and the strategies in place to reopen the entire waterway within the next 20 years.

Colin Fletcher, chairman of the Melksham, Chippenham & Calne branch, appealed to both active and armchair supporters to attend the event, which will run from 9.30am to 3.30pm.

He said: "This will be the largest public conference that we have ever held, and reflects the rapid progress we have been making in recent years.

"There was a time when most people either didn't know about the Wilts & Berks Canal, or didn't think it could ever be restored.

"Now, the vast majority of people that we speak to are aware of our aims and objectives and they are as keen as we are to see the waterway brought back to life for everyone's benefit.

"It's no longer a case of 'if' the canal will be restored, but 'when'."

The free event will be held at Ellendune Community Centre, Wroughton, near Swindon.

The audience will discuss the ongoing restoration of the former Wilts & Berks Canal from the Kennet & Avon Canal in the south to the Thames & Severn Canal and the River Thames in the north, connecting Melksham, Calne, Wootton Bassett, Swindon, Cricklade and Abingdon.

The charity currently has more than 1,700 members, with work parties clearing stretches and rebuilding structures all along the line of the old canal.

For further information on the conference, call Jan Flanagan on (01793) 523048 or visit www.wbct.org.uk.