Chance to snap our “lost wonders”

The trust has teamed up with The Inland Waterways Association to launch Lost Wonders of the Waterways World, a new contest aiming to capture scenes of the hundreds of miles of derelict canals across England and Wales.

Miles of waterways, once busy routes to and from the Dearne Valley’s collieries and other industry, make the Weekender’s news patch a potential hotbed of award-winning photos.

Jason Leach, enterprise and restoration manager, said: “There are hundreds of miles of abandoned waterways out there and we hope it opens up their imagination to the potential of how their local area could look if that canal was restored over time.”

Britain once boasted over 5,000 miles of navigable canals and rivers helping to transport goods and raw materials.  

The growth in railways in the 19th century and road transport in the 20th century led to around 2,000 miles of waterways being closed or abandoned.

Since the turn of the millennium volunteer groups have restored over 200 miles of inland waterways, however.

Mr Leach added: “There are some really inspirational volunteer groups out there who are leading the way in championing canal restoration as they realise the huge benefits the canals offer.

“We hope that they inspire others to get involved and create a lasting legacy for us all to be proud of.”

The deadline for entries to the Lost Wonders of the Waterways World competition is tomorrow, with winners announced in the week commencing May 11.

One outright winner will receive vouchers worth £500 and two runners up will scoop £250.

For details about how to get involved with a canal restoration group near you and for competition and prize details, visit www.canalrivertrust.org.uk/restoration.