The Sankey Canal Restoration Society (SCRS) is inviting local volunteers to join their ongoing efforts to preserve and restore England’s first industrial canal.
Since 1985, SCRS has been working to maintain this historic waterway, which was authorised in 1755 and played a crucial role in the industrial development of St Helens, Newton-le-Willows, Widnes and the surrounding area. The canal helped establish these towns by bringing coal down to Liverpool’s growing chemical industries.
The society organises regular task team sessions along the canal’s length, with work parties taking place approximately every fortnight. Activities typically include cutting back vegetation, clearing debris from the canal channel, maintaining towpaths, and uncovering historic structures.
All necessary tools and safety equipment are provided by the experienced SCRS team, with volunteers only needing to bring old clothes, food and drink, waterproof gear and sturdy boots. The sessions offer a perfect opportunity to get some fresh air and exercise while contributing to an important community heritage project.
Next task team session
The next work party takes place on Saturday, 10 October 2026 from 10am to 2pm at Hey Lock (Lower Pound), where volunteers will be investigating the canal pipework near Newton Brook and starting a project to reveal the historic Hey Lock on the Sankey Valley Trail. A shorter session is also fine if you can’t stay for the full four hours.
Meet at Sankey Valley car park, 58 Tyrer Road, Newton-le-Willows, WA12 8SP (car park entrance is at the side of 42 Tyrer Road). Nearest facilities are at ALDI, 1 Vulcan Park Way, Newton-le-Willows, WA12 8AS.
For more information or to have a friendly chat before attending, contact Ian Hornby on 07753 289765 or Neil Viggers on 07917 754548.
All volunteers are covered by SCRS insurance, and task team leaders are Emergency First Aid trained. The activity is suitable for anyone aged 18 and over, with opportunities for younger volunteers available upon request.
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