Volunteers have rescued a local relic that was hidden for years beneath trees and undergrowth near Liskeard.
A former lock chamber on the old canal that used to flow between Moorswater and Looe dating back to 1828 had been at risk of deterioration and ultimate collapse, because of the encroachment of uncontrolled vegetation and trees.
Over the last week, more than 20 volunteers have come together to cut back the vegetation. Underneath, the lock, last used for navigation in 1860, was in surprisingly good condition, considering its long period of neglect.Volunteers who turned out this week battled with the rain, but managed to clear the site, removing a number of large tree roots, to reveal the stonework of the 19th century canal builders.
Project leader, Peter Murnaghan said: ‘We are really pleased with the level of help and support that we have received from Network Rail, that enabled us to get access to the site.
‘I would describe this work, not as a restoration, but as a rescue project. We have stopped the deterioration and exposed the lock for public view.’
Find out more about the history of the canal and the lock rescue project in the current edition of the Cornish Times - and also look out for Friday’s paper, which will contain more fascinating historical images of the old canal.