THE first national water vole monitoring programme has launched along the Kennet and Avon Canal.

Volunteers are being encouraged to get involved in the People’s Trust for Endangered Species annual site survey to track their movements.

Water voles have rapidly disappeared over the last two decades and PTES hopes that people will get involved in their annual field survey and choose one of nearly 900 pre-selected sites across the country.

While no experience is required, participants taking part will need to learn how to identify water vole field signs.

To get involved, visit: www.ptes.org/watervoles