Two voluntary organisations that are working on the Montgomery Canal between Welshpool and Oswestry are asking people to join them.

The Thursday Restoration and Maintenance Project Supporters (TRAMPS) group and volunteers at Llanymynech Canal Wharf keep the canal area in order and are seeking more help for their projects.

TRAMPS carry out work for the national charity Canal & River Trust, maintaining the canal and trimming vegetation on the towpath around Welshpool.

Chris Bushnell, CRT’s lead volunteer for the group said: "Now that bird nesting time is coming to an end, we can start reducing the hedges on the towpath to make them more accessible.

"However, at this time of year it is a battle for the volunteers to keep up with the rapid vegetation growth."

Volunteers look after the canal   (Image: Supplied)

Mr Bushnell added that misconceptions about who owns the upkeep of the towpath are prevalent.

He said: "Many people think that the Council is responsible for clearing undergrowth.

"But, the towpaths are owned by the Canal & River Trust and allow the public free access.

"The Trust has limited resources so we, as local volunteers, play a big role in helping them out.

"Our volunteers are stretched over 12 miles of canal, and we are on the lookout for volunteers who could help, particularly around the Llanymynech area."

For those looking to help, Mr Bushnell assures there are opportunities to make a real difference.

Similarly, Llanymynech Canal Wharf also needs volunteers to operate a narrowboat and visitor centre, providing the public with experiences of the Montgomery Canal's history and wildlife.

The Wharf located in the Llanymynech Heritage Area provides light refreshments and offers boat trips.

Those interested can email news@themontgomerycanal.org.uk stating their group of interest.

Further information is available online at theMontgomeryCanal.org.uk.