HARDWORKING volunteers are offering a rare glimpse of the restoration of a former waterway this weekend.

The Wilts & Berks Canal Trust is holding an open day at Dauntsey Lock, near Royal Wootton Bassett, on Sunday. Visitors will be able to enjoy boat rides, refreshments, stalls, displays and children’s games.

The open day is being organised by the Foxham and Lyne-ham branch of the charity, whose volunteers provided more than 5,000 hours of labour last year.

Branch chairman Rachael Banyard said: “This is the first time that we have organised a public event at Dauntsey Lock, but we hope it will be a big success and generate even more interest in the restoration campaign.

“There are currently no rights of way along this part of the canal and all of our activities have to be agreed with landowners.

“So this is a rare opportunity for people to take a look at an important piece of local history.

“We think people will be surprised to see just how much has been achieved by our volunteers – the charity has already rebuilt several lock chambers, a wharf, spillweir and even a lift-bridge, as well as upgrading the towpath.

“In addition, several hundred metres have been dredged and refilled with water and now provide a wonderful wildlife corridor.

“We want to showcase all the benefits of a restored canal and demonstrate that the Wilts & Berks can – and will – be brought back to life.”

The boat Willow will offer serene journeys along the rewatered section, costing £3 for adults and £2 for children.

The event also includes an illustrated talk on the history of the canal, taking place inside The Peterborough Arms, and a raffle offering a top prize of a boat trip for up to 12 people along a restored stretch on the southern side of Swindon. All funds raised will support the local restoration effort.

Rachael said: “We hope that people will want to learn more about the charity and how they can get involved, or simply come along to have a good time with their family and friends.

“If it proves to be really popular then we can even consider making it an annual event which will hopefully get bigger and better with every passing year.”

The ultimate aim of the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust is to restore the former waterway from the Kennet & Avon Canal near Melksham to the Thames & Severn Canal near Cricklade and the River Thames near Abingdon, linking Chippenham, Calne, Royal Wootton Bassett and Swindon.

The charity hopes it will provide a multi-million pound boost to the local economy through increased tourism and employment, as well as providing an amenity for local walkers, riders and anglers.

Sunday’s event runs from 10.30am to 5pm adjacent to The Peterborough Arms, where parking is available. Admission is free.

Visit www.wbct.org.uk or call 01249 892289 for more information.