This week in our Spotlight on Volunteers campaign, we meet the Anglian Waterways Volunteers group who work on the River Ouse in spring and summer.
The volunteers spend their spring and summer weekends helping boaters safely use the locks on the River Ouse.
They can often be found in areas such as St Ives, Houghton and Godmanchester, assisting people who are travelling on the river.
A recent survey was conducted by the Anglian Waterways Volunteers to see what they enjoy the most in their role.
Some of the of answers included seeing the beautiful countryside settings in Huntingdonshire, as well as getting gentle exercise in the spring months.
Lots of the volunteers enjoy meeting boaters out and about on the River Ouse, as well as spending some time with fellow volunteers.
Recommended Reading: Spotlight on Volunteers: Diamond Hampers in Huntingdonshire
Roger Green, who has been volunteering with the Anglian Waterways Volunteers group for five years, said:
"Being able to volunteer outside in some of our most environmentally precious and picturesque locations is a real bonus for us.
"Meeting and helping boaters is rewarding, sometimes the conversation delays the locking!"
The Anglian Waterways Volunteers operate from April to September, so there's still time to get involved before the spring season arrives.
The volunteers also have the chance to choose how often they decide to go locking.
Potential volunteers do not need any previous experience of boating or locks to be able to take part in the scheme.
All of the training and safety equipment for volunteers is provided by the Environment Agency.
Anyone who would like to find our more about the Anglian Waterways Volunteers group can contact Rachael Brown, who is the scheme co-ordinator. She can be reached at:
rachael.brown@cambsacre.org.uk
01353 865037
Any volunteering groups who would like to feature in our Spotlight on Volunteers campaign can get in touch at:
francesca.herring@newsquest.co.uk
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