WALKERS taking part in an annual sponsored event in aid of the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust hope to have raised hundreds of pounds.
More than a hundred people of all ages took part in the four-mile trek along the former route of the canal from Chippenham to Lacock on April 27, tracing the towpath through open countryside.
Along the way they passed abandoned locks and dry-docks which had been hidden in undergrowth for a century, before reaching re-watered sections and a rebuilt bridge.
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The walk began by The Buttercross in Chippenham Market Place and was officially started by Chippenham mayor Cllr Sandra Oakes.
Liberal Democrat prospective parliamentary candidate Duncan Hames also took part in order to learn more about the charity and its aims.
Trust volunteer and event organiser Peter Williams said: "We were delighted to see so many people taking part in this year's event, especially considering such wet weather had been predicted.
"In fact, we suspect that many more people would have taken part had it not been for the forecasts.
"Nonetheless, we were joined by grandparents, parents, young couples and individuals, not only from local towns but also from as far away as Sussex, together with teams from the sea cadets and air cadets.
"Some people just wanted to enjoy some light exercise in nice surroundings, others wanted to learn more about the canal restoration and to see how much has already been achieved just a short walk from their own homes.
"We hope the sponsored walk will have raised several hundred pounds to support our local projects, and would once again like to thank everyone who took part."
The charity's ultimate aim is to eventually link the Kennet & Avon Canal near Melksham to the River Thames near Abingdon and The Thames and Severn Canal near Cricklade, connecting Chippenham, Calne, Wootton Bassett and Swindon.
Supporters hope that it will provide a multi-million pound boost to the local economy through increased tourism and employment.
For further information on the local branch of the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust, visit www.melkshamwaterway.org.uk
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