Canal charity seeks new wave of volunteers

The Canal & River Trust, the charity that cares for the nation's historic waterways, is looking for volunteers to welcome people onto the towpath at Fradley Junction near Lichfield, explain the history of the surrounding canals and point out the nearby places of interest.

The volunteers will be based in a special 'Welcome Station' housed in the historic courtyard at the junction, which marks the point where the Coventry and Trent & Mersey Canals meet.

With the growing popularity of the nation's waterways, the team will offer visitors expert local knowledge during weekends and holiday periods.

Fradley Junction is a popular place for walkers, cyclists, boaters and anglers as well as families looking for a peaceful afternoon in the fresh air.

With the nearby Fradley Pool, the junction has also become a popular place for wildlife spotters.

Tom Freeland, volunteer coordinator for the trust said: "The canals around Fradley Junction are fantastic, full of wildlife and historical features and we really want people to get the most out of their visit.

"This role is all about being a friendly face for people and helping them to discover all the wonderful places dotted along the canal. It's a great opportunity to chat with people and help them to find the perfect picnic spot, canalside pub or quiet place to watch wildlife.

"No-one knows more about the area than local people so we really want to work with volunteers who can share their local knowledge, whether that be advising on the best pub garden or explaining about the history of the local canals."

The role is open to people of all ages and abilities and is ideal for those who are outgoing, love meeting people, are passionate about their local area and who would like to share their knowledge with visitors.

For more information go to www.canalrivertrust.org.uk/volunteer or email tom.freeland@canalrivertrust.org.uk