Waterway rangers sought

A CANAL charity is appealing for people to play a leading role on Leicester’s waterways, making sure they remain special places for people and wildlife.

The Canal and River Trust is recruiting a team of volunteer towpath rangers who will play an active role in welcoming visitors, pointing out the attractions and helping out with some light maintenance work.

With new developments going up all the time alongside the city’s waterways, and people increasingly heading to the towpath to keep fit and boost their wellbeing, the team of volunteers will play a crucial role in helping people to make the most of their visit, the trust said.

It said it is looking for friendly people with good local knowledge and a passion for their city.

A spokesman said: “With research showing time spent by water can help us to feel happier and heathier, the role is an opportunity for people to keep active, meet people and spend some tranquil time by the water.”

Andy Stone, volunteer development coordinator for the trust, said: “The canal running through Leicester plays a really vital role in the city, attracting wildlife and providing people living and working there with a place to escape to and give their mental wellbeing a boost.

“A lot of the time visitors to the towpath don’t know where the canal goes or appreciate how close it is to some of the city’s best-loved places.

“We’re looking for people who can bring that to life, help people to enjoy their time by the water and also pitch in with some light maintenance tasks to help improve the canal.

“We’re looking for people who are passionate about the city and who want to play an active role in caring for it and ensuring people have a great time when they visit.

“In return, they’ll get to work in some of the city’s most scenic spots and meet new people on a daily basis.”

For more information about the trust, visit: