���˿���

Volunteer lock keepers are being sought to help maintain the Kennet and Avon Canal in Wiltshire.

The scheme by British Waterways follows a successful trial on the canal, which is now being rolled out with further opportunities in Wiltshire and Bath.

Duties include assisting boaters through the locks and helping maintain the lock area.

A British Waterways spokesman said the canal is "an important heritage asset that needs looking after".

In 2012, the canals, rivers, reservoirs and docks maintained by British Waterways in England and Wales will transfer to the ownership of the Canal and River Trust.

The spokesman added: "Volunteering will be integral to the success of the trust which will become one of the biggest charities in the UK, giving the local community a bigger say in the running of the Kennet & Avon Canal."