Lock sharing plan to save Kennet and Avon canal water

Advice is also being given on correct lock use

Users of the Kennet and Avon canal in Wiltshire are being encouraged to share a lock in an attempt to save water.

British Waterways is placing signs along the route from Caen Hill, Devizes, to Bath asking people to think about the measure.

Waterways manager Mark Stevens said using less water will not be the only benefit of the scheme.

"The less water that we have to pump the smaller my electric bill is and the more other work I can do," he said.

"Wait for someone, share a lock and make a new friend."

Hire boat firms are also being asked to stress the importance of the correct usage of locks to their less experienced customers.