Working with staff from the Canal & River Trust, the charity that looks after the Kennet & Avon Canal, the young explorers will be helping out alongside friendly and experienced volunteer lock keepers to operate locks and aid boaters as they travel up and down the much loved flight of locks.
Taking place on Tuesdays throughout August, this free experience is open to anyone between the ages of 7-14. During the hour long session, the junior lock keepers will be shown how to operate the locks, discover exactly why we need locks on the canal and also and find out how we look after our locks and towpaths.
Fun day out for all
Elaine Stanley, education co-ordinator at the Canal & River Trust, said: “Caen Hill Locks is a beautiful spot on the Kennet & Avon Canal, and is ideal for any youngsters wanting to have a go at being a lock keeper. With 16 locks to work and a whole host of boats to help navigate their way down the canal, the experience will certainly keep any eager children and their parents busy and will hopefully be an enjoyable day for everyone.”
Junior lock keepers will need to wear sensible shoes and be accompanied by an adult. Full safety instructions and life jackets will be provided, and all participants will be rewarded with a goody bag and certificate at the end of their session. Families can also take part in other activities that don't require booking, including pond dipping, throughout the day.
Booking is essential, so to reserve your place please contact Elaine Stanley in the education team on 07733 124565 or email [email protected].
For more on the Trust's education programme and to find out how we can work with your primary school to bring the waterways to life log onto the education website at www.canalriverexplorers.org.uk.
