By Carmelo Garcia – Local Democracy Reporter
There are calls for more volunteers to get involved and join an “ambitious” canal restoration in the Cotswolds.
The Cotswold Canals Trust (CCT) is inviting new volunteers to join its “inspiring” mission to restore the historic canal route stretching from Saul Junction to Lechlade.
The volunteer-led charity is preserving a vital piece of Gloucestershire heritage.
And it counts on more than 350 active volunteers, a 6,000-strong membership, and a growing network of facilities including three visitor centres, two charity bookshops, two depots, and four boat trip bases.
The trust offers volunteering opportunities for everyone, from hands-on environmental work to community outreach, retail, and youth engagement.
“Whether you’re looking to work outdoors, help behind the scenes, or welcome visitors, there’s a role that fits your skills and interests,” a spokesperson said.
Key volunteer roles currently available include:
Towpath Maintenance (Eastern Section): Join a team restoring towpaths between Siddington and Latton—ideal for those who enjoy physical, outdoor work. A Team Leader role is also open, requiring coordination and planning skills.
Visitor Centre Volunteers (Saul Junction, Wallbridge, Eastern Centre): Meet the public, share the canal’s story, and help run the centre’s day-to-day operations.
Bookshop Volunteers (Stonehouse): Needed especially on Fridays and Saturdays to sort stock, serve customers, and keep this popular charity shop running smoothly.
Workboat Crew (Wookey Hole Team): Help maintain the canal near Capel’s Mill using the purpose-built Wookey Hole workboat—training included.
Canal Walk Guides: Lead guided walks, providing visitors with insight into the canal’s history, wildlife, and ongoing restoration efforts.
Events Team: Represent CCT at local events, engaging with the public and promoting the restoration cause.
Volunteer Engagement Team: Help onboard and support new volunteers, matching them with suitable roles and ensuring a positive experience.
Logging Team (Western Depot): Help split and deliver firewood to local customers—a physically active role with a strong community impact.
Project & Site Management Roles: Opportunities for those with leadership or infrastructure experience, including the Phase 1A Maintenance Manager role and future Western Depot admin support.
Youth Group Assistants: Support 12–16-year-olds in nature and conservation activities along the canal, helping inspire the next generation of volunteers.
“Get Involved. From waterway maintenance to bookshop retail, from youth mentoring to steering a historic workboat—volunteering with the Cotswold Canals Trust is a chance to make a lasting difference, build new skills, and become part of a passionate community.
“There’s a role for everyone,” says the Trust, and with a project of this scale and heart, that promise couldn’t be more true.
People can find out more or to join the volunteer team by visiting cotswoldcanals.org, call the trust on 01453 752568 or emailing volunteersupport@cotswoldcanals.org or stop by one of the Trust’s visitor centres.