VOLUNTEER lock keepers are wanted to maange the Stanley Lock Flight on the Leeds-Liverpool canal.

The Lock Flight is grade one listed and the Canal & River Trust (CRT), the charity which takes over responsibility for 2,000 miles of waterways in England and Wales from April, needs local people to help look after it.

The volunteer lock keeper scheme is being rolled out across the country following a successful trial period.

Lock keepers have been a fixture on Britain’s canals for hundreds of years and are one of the oldest traditions of the waterways.

Their role is to provide a polite and friendly welcome to waterway visitors, assisting boaters through the locks and helping to maintain the area.

Steve Bergquist, fromcor British Waterways which was previously responsible for the country’s canals, said: "The task of a lock keeper is arguably the most symbolic on the waterways and the trials around the country have shown us that there’s huge public interest out there for the waterways.

"It’s a perfect opportunity for those who enjoy working in the outdoors and are perhaps looking for something different to do and want to help support the Canal & River Trust in what will be its first year."

He added: "The waterways in Merseyside are an important heritage asset that needs looking after and our volunteers have been able to provide so many additional benefits on top of the fantastic work our own staff carry out which is really beginning to make a difference.

"The key qualities we’re looking for are enthusiasm and a willingness to learn. Whether it’s helping a boat through the lock, talking to customers, litter picking or undertaking vegetation works, it can really make a great difference to a visitor’s appreciation of the waterways."

Volunteering will be integral to the success of the Trust which will become one of the biggest charities in the UK, giving local communities a bigger say in the running of their local canal or river.

A full list of volunteer lock keeping locations is available by emailing volunteer@britishwater ways.co.uk, visiting www.water scape.com/volunteerlockkeeper or calling 01827 252097.

No prior experience is necessary as a full induction, training and a uniform will be provided.