VOLUNTEERS have received special recognition for their progress in restoring a former Wiltshire waterway.

The Melksham, Chippenham and Calne branch of the Wilts and Berks Canal Trust has been presented with the annual Tony Davy Award given to the branch whose volunteers donated the highest number of working hours in the previous year.

Much of last year’s volunteer activity was centred on the open countryside between Melksham and Chippenham, where the towpath was improved and a culvert rebuilt.

Branch chairman Dave Maloney said: “This award is a marvellous tribute to all of our hardworking volunteers, not only those involved in the physical restoration of the canal but also those who help with our fundraising, talks and other events.

“It also clearly demonstrates the increasing level of public support for the charity’s campaign to bring this wonderful waterway back to life.

“Most of the hours are donated to our regular work parties where people enjoy the outdoor activity and the exercise."

On top of the countryside work one of the chambers at Pewsham Locks has been completely cleared of debris for an investigation by engineers prior to the next stage of restoration and youth groups have been involved in planting trees and bushes to repair hedgerows.

Mr Maloney added: “These dirty boots volunteers include plumbers, electricians, teachers, civil servants and students.

"Some want to get involved in specific areas such as bricklaying or vehicle maintenance while others simply enjoy cutting the grass.

“But we would also love to welcome more clean boots volunteers who can help with big public events such as the Melksham Food & River Festival and Chippenham Folk Festival, or manning stalls and displays.”

Supporters provided 8,860 hours of their time with an estimated value of £146,000 when applying for matched funding.