The annual Training Weekend returns to Fosseway Heath at Lichfield for 2026, thanks to the Lichfield and Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust, who have once again made this possible. All training sessions will take place on Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th May, with accommodation available from Friday evening for those wishing to stay overnight.

Volunteers will be given an introduction to the wide range of skills commonly used on working weekends and Canal Camps. Our aim is to provide initial or refresher training in areas identified as priorities for projects in the coming year, as well as instructor training for those with several years of regular operator experience.

Training will be available in the following areas: 360-degree excavators (categories 30 and 31), articulated dumpers, ride-on rollers, minibuses, trailers, site tools, brick saws, bricklaying, and any other useful sessions identified by leaders over the coming months.

The WRG Training Weekend is ideal for anyone attending a Canal Camp this year where specific skills have been identified as useful by leaders, as well as for returning volunteers who would benefit from refresher sessions before the camp season begins. It is also well suited to those considering becoming instructors. Instructors who are able to volunteer and share their knowledge over the two days are warmly encouraged to get in touch.

To book a place, discuss opportunities, or volunteer as an instructor, please contact Ali Bottomley by email at: [email protected]