COMMUNITIES are being encouraged to adopt one-mile stretches of canals by the organisation which looks after 2,000 miles of waterways across the country.

The Canal and River Trust has joined up with former Countryfile presenter Julia Bradbury to help boost the profile of its project which aims to have one quarter of its canals adopted by local people.

Three organisations have adopted sections of canal in Gloucestershire, including Gloucestershire College which looks after the canal at Saul Junction.

Julia Bradbury said: “Two hundred years ago, canals helped to transform the face of Britain, bringing about unprecedented change to our economy and society.

“The legacy we have today is amongst the finest examples of industrial heritage in the world, yet the biggest threat our waterways face is apathy.

“Last century it was pioneering volunteers who rolled up their sleeves to help save the waterways from being lost forever.

“And today when I’m out exploring and taking in the waterways I’ve seen what a difference it makes when local communities come together and make their stretch come to life.

“I’d encourage anyone with a community spirit and a bit of time to spare to see how they can get involved.”

Across the country, 170 sections of waterways have been adopted by community groups and the Canal and River Trust is aiming to boost this to 500 by 2025.

Richard Parry, chief executive of the rust, said: “Volunteering on the canals is a win-win for everyone.

“The love for the outdoors is very much alive across the nation, but there aren’t always easy opportunities to get stuck in.

“Waiting lists for allotments are testament to this, or the number of people who would love a garden but aren’t able to get one.

“Even outdoor volunteering experiences can be in short supply in some areas.

“We think our adoptions could provide an answer, benefitting you, the waterway and the community.”

For more information visit canalrivertrust.org.uk/volunteer/adopt-a-canal