PRINCE Charles will today host a reception to launch a local appeal for cash to help pay for the restoration of the old canal route which once linked the Rivers Thames and Severn.

It will be held at his Highgrove home and the public appeal will be £750,000.

The cash is needed to help restore the canals, which were abandoned half a century ago, back to their former glory bringing community, economic and ecological benefits.

A recent feasibility study announced that the project will cost £82m and the local effort will be one of many fund-raising schemes launched to help achieve this total.

Up to 80 guests will be at the reception representing local landowners, politicians and businesses, together with volunteer workers and members of the Cotswold Canals Partnership - the group established to drive restoration plans forward.

Roger Hanbury, the chief executive of the Waterways Trust, said: "The reception will help generate support for the restoration of the canals.

"They are an important national asset and must be managed in a sensitive and sustainable way. If left the structures will continue to decay and the ecology will change with more sections drying up threatening wildlife habitats.

"To do nothing is not an option. We must act to protect these priceless assets, otherwise we could lose them for ever."

Mr Hanbury added: "Local people are being asked to help put the canals back on the waterway map. With a gift of £3 or more a month, donors will help revitalise the communities that border the canal, boosting local businesses and creating new jobs, as well as improving the environment and leisure opportunities for local people and tourists alike."

Over the next few months thousands of leaflets are to be distributed asking for people to support the restoration project.

Anyone wishing to donate should call 0845 0700 710 or write to The Waterways Trust, Freepost NWW8200A, Ellesmere Port, CH65 4ZZ.