COTSWOLD Canals Trust formally handed back Lodgemore Bridge to Stroud District Council yesterday after completing an upgrade to the bridge control system.

The bridge has been converted from manual hydraulic to electrical hydraulic by volunteers from the Trust (CCT).

The charity has over 250 specialist engineering, maintenance and technical volunteers, and during the challenge, the team replaced the whole console, which houses both electrical and hydraulic equipment which was redesigned, built and fitted.

Councillor Simon Pickering, Chair of Stroud District Council’s environment committee said: "The canal is good for residents, businesses and visitors, so it needs to be as user friendly as possible.

"Boaters visiting Stroud in future will be thankful for this great piece of work."

Reg Gregory, maintenance director of CCT, said: “Because of this project Lodgemore Bridge will be operational for navigation of boats up and down the canal.

"A new electrical supply was required and installed with the new console fitted and with new hydraulic pipes installed, we were then able to commission the system.

"Operation of the bridge will now be much easier to use which will help increasing traffic as we get towards completion of the canal."

The project was also supported by ATH Hydraulics Ltd, who have supported the Trust for many years with hydraulics.

Chris Clark, CCT Volunteer said: “We could not do what we do without their support.

"We are also grateful to production manager John Hoyle, and Duncan Kettle, CEO from WSP Textiles Ltd, as well as the colleagues who have been very patient while the works to the bridge have been ongoing."

Phase one of the the project to restore the Stroudwater Navigation Canal between Stroud and Saul Junction between Brimscombe and Stonehouse was completed thanks to a grant from the Heritage Fund.

The partners are now working to secure a further £9million from the National Lottery Heritage Fund to complete the Stonehouse to Saul stretch.

If you would like to become a volunteer to help CCT complete the canal project, call 01453 752568.