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Do something different in 2011.... working holidays for only £56 per week!

It's been a chilly start to the winter but Waterway Recovery Group (WRG) are already busy planning a summer full of canal restoration.

Every year WRG runs over 20 week-long working holidays called ‘Canal Camps’ with the aim of restoring the derelict waterways of England and Wales. 'Canal Camps’ are a great experience for anyone who loves being outdoors and is interested in having fun, whilst meeting people with different backgrounds and from different countries. Our camps also offer you a fantastic chance to learn new skills such as bricklaying, stone walling, machine operation and restoration techniques.

In 2011 there will be 22 week-long working holidays.

Volunteers will undertake projects such as restoring a length of the Montgomery Canal in Shropshire using Bentonite matting, clay and geotextiles; continuing the restoration and rebuilding of Eisey Lock on the Cotswold Canals; constructing a slipway on the River Avon in Warwickshire; as well as working with the Essex Waterways team to maintain the Chelmer and Blackwater Navigation, by assisting in bank protection, painting, towpath clearance and repairs.

Volunteers will also be involved in a new project just off the River Thames at Lechlade, helping restore the derelict Inglesham Lock, which is seen as the gateway to the Cotswold Canals. Work will include construction of a site compound, landing stage and dam. Volunteers will also start rebuilding the upper wing walls of the lock. These canal camps give volunteers the opportunity to get their hands dirty right at the start of an exciting project!

Volunteering with WRG is a unique opportunity so why not do something different in 2011 and become a 21st century Navvy!

Each Canal Camp usually runs for seven days, each volunteer is asked to contribute £56 for the week (or £8 per day) towards the cost of their accommodation and the three meals a day that are provided. Most accommodation, which is best described as basic, is in sports centres, schools or village halls.

Anyone is welcome to volunteer for a Canal Camp; the only restriction is that they must be over 18 and under 70 years of age. No previous skills or experience are required.

Free information pack avaliable from Jenny Black at Waterway Recovery Group, Island House, Moor Road, Chesham, HP5 1WA

Tel: 01494 783 453

e-mail: enquires@wrg.org.uk

Alternatively you can refer to our website www.wrg.org.uk for further information, and a look back at what WRG has already achieved.

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