VOLUNTEERS restoring part of the Wilts & Berks Canal near Chippenham have unearthed a turbulent past.

Excavators of Top Lock discovered a side wall had a section completely destroyed, despite the heavy compacted soil behind it, giving weight to rumours that the Pewsham locks were used as targets for explosives practice during World War Two.

The chamber can now be clearly seen after volunteers using diggers and dumpers completely emptied it of 100 years worth of accumulated rubbish, debris and silt.

And next month, on May 10, they will be showing off the hard work they have done since planning permission was granted in February 2014, at a sponsored walk that will fund their onward progress.

Canal Trust member Peter Williams discovered a Western Daily Press article dated March 23, 1931, detailing how members of the South Midland Royal Engineers Bristol had blown up ‘an old lock on the Avon Canal’ at ‘Persham’ near Chippenham.

He said: “There is also a report from May 27, 1931. Apparently one of the sappers involved in the demolition was seriously injured during the exercise. He was struck by a flying brick, was taken to Chippenham Cottage Hospital and later transferred to the Bristol General, where he was still seriously ill two months later. The lock wasn't going down without a fight!”

Project manager Ray Canter said: “We were amazed to see the extent of the damage caused by the explosion.

"Remarkably, most of the walls stayed intact, but a section of one side was almost completely destroyed, with the base completely shifted out of line so that the lock now has a distinct bend at one end.

“We hope that as many people as possible will come on the sponsored walk to see the progress we have made. Volunteers will be on hand to talk about the history of the locks, as well as our restoration plans.”

The annual walk to the Bell Inn at Lacock on May 10 leaves the Buttercross, Chippenham at 10.30am on Sunday May 10. It covers five miles, including a 1.5 mile stretch alongside the restored canal, with mid-morning tea, coffee, cake and a portable toilet available at Pewsham Locks.

Walkers can either retrace their steps to Chippenham or,for a small donation, take a minibus trip back.

Entry fee is £5 per person, £10 per family group, or free for anyone raising £20 of sponsorship money. Registration is from 10am. Sponsorship forms are available at www.melkshamwaterway.org.uk