Melksham volunteer named ‘unsung hero’ for canal work

A Melksham volunteer has been named an ‘unsung hero’ for his efforts in protecting the local waterways.

Howard Yardy, a wildlife officer with the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust, a charity aiming to restore the former waterway from the Kennet & Avon Canal near Melksham to the Thames & Severn Canal near Cricklade and the River Thames near Abingdon, has received the recognition.

He features in the April issue of national magazine Canal Boat, appearing on the ‘unsung heroes’ page, which highlights volunteers who go above and beyond to preserve and protect the waterways.

“I have always been fascinated by the history of canals and love working outside and keeping fit, so I was keen to get involved with the local restoration campaign,” said Howard.

Howard, 71 and a former policeman, joined the charity’s Melksham, Chippenham & Calne branch in 2021 after learning the Wilts & Berks once passed near the bottom of his garden.

He works with a team of other volunteers from Melksham – Graham Stroud and Andrew and Raine Vidler.

“I’m also very lucky to be supported by so many other fantastic volunteers – it’s truly a team effort,” he said.

Much of Howard’s time is spent on the restored stretch north of Lacock, creating new woodlands, wildflower meadows and ponds at Naish Hill. Over the past two years, the team has planted more than 1,000 trees and around 1,500 wildflowers. Many come from Howard’s own collection at home and his allotment. Nearly 100 bird and bat boxes, many made by Howard from recycled wood, have also been installed.

“I’ve made lots of new friends who share my passion for nature and even when I’m not volunteering, I still enjoy taking my dog for a walk along the towpath to see what’s happening and plan my next task. I’m slightly obsessed, but I love being there.

“Sometimes there are special moments, like an encounter with an otter or an unusual bird, or capturing a beaver on my wildlife camera, and it proves we’re doing the right thing.”

For further information on supporting the charity’s local environmental projects, email howard.yardy@wbct.org.uk.

People can take a closer look at the Pewsham Locks restoration when the charity hosts its first open day of the year on Saturday 11th April, which will include a pop-up café, guided tours and boat rides – water levels and weather permitting.

Visit www.wbct.org.uk/mcc-branch-events for further details, including a map and directions.