A TEAM of volunteers are heading out onto the Leeds-Liverpool canal twice a week as part of a huge spring clean of the waterway.

The six week trial, led by hire boat operator Lee Shepherd of Hapton Valley Boats, will see a team of volunteers cleaning up areas in Blackburn, Hyndburn, Burnley and Pendle.

Working with British Waterways, who have provided a litter boat, the volunteers are targeting hotspots along a 23 mile stretch of the canal to ensure it is in tip top condition for the coming summer.

Mr Shepherd said: “This is one of the most beautiful stretches of canal in the country and we want more people to come here and enjoy all it has to offer.

“We are working hard ahead of the summer to ensure the canal is clean and tidy. "We are mid-way through the trial at the moment and we are hoping to make it a regular thing in the future.”

Debbie Lumb, waterway manager for British Waterways North West, said: “It’s a sad fact some people do not appreciate what an asset the canal is for this area and do not always treat it with the respect it deserves.

“Canals are sometimes used as dumping grounds and as British Waterways faces huge economic challenges priority has to be given to maintenance and safety works so the work Lee is doing with his team of volunteers is invaluable.

“As British Waterways moves towards becoming a charity we will need to work more and more with local groups to help us look after the nation’s canals.

“Lee’s project is pioneering and we are hopeful it will become a permanent activity along this stretch of canal and beyond.”

More volunteers are always needed and anyone wishing to get involved with the project should contact Lee Shepherd on 07777 658732.