Leeds-Liverpool Canal: Walkers warned over icy paths

The Canal and River Trust is reminding people to stay safe along tow-paths

People are being reminded to take care while walking, running or cycling on icy paths along the Leeds and Liverpool Canal as the temperature drops.

Lizzie Dealey from the Canal and River Trust said the tow-paths are beautiful, but frost and ice can be slippery.

"If you are on the tow-path and someone falls in, please do not go into the water to help them, because you will become the second casualty," she said.

"Enjoy your winter walk but go prepared, wear that grippy footwear."

Ms Dealey was speaking near the Grade I-listed Bingley Five Rise Locks, where work is taking place to repair the wash walls.

"The tow-paths along the canals are beautiful, so come for a winter walk, it is absolutely gorgeous," she said.

Dog walkers are being reminded to keep their pets on a lead to avoid them going into icy water

"But at this time of year there are some key safety tips that we want people to enjoy the waterway safely."

The Canal and River Trust said instead of going into the water to help someone, people should call for help and use a stick or a scarf to reach them from the canal side.

The waterways charity also advises dog walkers to keep their pets on a lead in case they run on to ice, and to never follow their pet on to a frozen canal.

The warning comes as temperatures of between -3C (27F) to -6C (21F) were widely seen across the UK on Friday and are expected to remain low in the North of England all week.