I first started my volunteering by joining a newly formed Towpath Taskforce team of one other back in 2011. I have always enjoyed being close to, or on, rivers and canals, so on learning that volunteer lock keepers were just starting to be introduced I eagerly joined the small group at Caen Hill, Devizes.
I usually spend two days a week locking and thoroughly enjoy my time doing it, meeting many interesting people both on the boats and along the towpath.
Over the years I have also undertaken some 'handyman' jobs in the depot, helped on our floating Information Centre, a widebeam named 'The Admiral', and have trained as a helmsman.
Runs through my veins
It was good to get back after the long break caused by Covid-19. I think I must have some canal water running through my veins because if I am away on holiday and near a canal I just have to visit it and quite often end up helping a boat lock through. I intend to carry on my volunteering for as long as possible before hanging up my windlass.
