British Waterways is recruiting an army of volunteer rangers to work to work along key areas of the Leeds-Liverpool Canal including the iconic Five Rise Locks at Bingley.

In the first scheme of its kind, the volunteer rangers will be the organisation’s ‘face of the waterways’ and will be able to cycle or walk one particular stretch of the waterway to offer help and advice.

They will be expected to chat to people, offer information, promote the waterways and assist at key events and on educational projects.

The ideal volunteers will have an interest in the waterways, enjoy meeting people and like the sound of spending time outdoors in beautiful surroundings. They will be working from March until October and will ideally be able to offer two days a week.

Volunteering is an important aspect of British Waterways’ plans in England and Wales to move management of the nation’s canals and rivers out of state control and into a new ‘national trust’ for the waterways.

The charity, which is targeted to be up and running by April, 2012, will attract new investment and give people a greater role in how their waterways are run – including the opportunity to get involved in a growing number of volunteer opportunities.

British Waterways’ waterway manager for the north west, Debbie Lumb, said: “This is an exciting opportunity and we are expecting there to be a lot of interest.

“The role of volunteer ranger will be perfect for people who love chatting to people and being in the great outdoors. By opening up the role to volunteers we are hoping to tap into the great wealth of knowledge and passion that we know local people have for their canals.”

No prior experience is necessary, successful applicants will receive full induction, training and a uniform. The key attributes are enthusiasm and a willingness to learn.

For more information and to apply contact Cassie Weaver in British Waterways’ volunteering team on (01782) 779934 or e-mail cassie.weaver@britishwaterways.co.uk.

Closing date for expressions of interest is March 7. Information on all volunteering opportunities within British Waterways can be found on britishwaterways.co.uk/volunteer.