Volunteer lock keepers are needed to help the River Thames run smoothly this summer.

The Environment Agency wants people to help at the 44 locks, which include those at Molesey, Teddington and Sunbury, between May and September.

The lock assistants will work alongside professional lock and weir keepers, helping boats through and giving advice to visitors.

Andrew Graham, waterways volunteer manager at the Environment Agency, said the scheme attracted more than 80 volunteers when it launched last year.

He said: “People don’t have to live right next to the River Thames to volunteer with us; we want people who live in the wider community to get more involved too.

"As well as helping boats to pass through the lock, volunteers can use what they know about the Thames and its surroundings to help us to inform visitors about everything it has to offer.

“We are expecting a busy year with Thames with the Queen’s Jubilee pageant and the Olympic rowing at Dorney Lake, so the knowledge and enthusiasm of local volunteers will be invaluable."

Volunteers need to be fit, have an interest in river life and the environment and be willing to spend at least one day a week on the job, which will be based outdoors.

On-the-job training and a uniform will be provided to volunteers who will have the opportunity to increase their river knowledge.

For more information or an application pack email thames.volunteers@environment-agency.gov.uk or call 01491 828360.