Oakham Angling Society is spearheading a campaign to tidy up Oakham's canal to improve the area for fishermen and walkers.

Work got under way on Saturday with nine volunteers helping to shift weeds and start clearing the towpath.

Organiser Keith Garfoot said: "Once we've finished it will make a huge difference to anglers because they will actually be able to fish on this part of the canal again.

"Walkers and cyclists will also benefit by being able to use the towpath without the risk of getting stung or scratched by overgrown nettles and bushes."

Rutland MP Alan Duncan turned out to support the volunteers.

Mr Garfoot's employers at Anglian Water are backing the project by donating £100 and rewarding his voluntary efforts through the company's Give Me 5 scheme.

It allows Mr Garfoot to work on the project and get paid by his employer for up to 30 hours each year.

He added: "This should allow us access to Anglian Water's expertise, sponsor materials and contractors which, along with the Heritage Lottery bid, can only be a winning partnership."

On Saturday the volunteers also set up protective nets to stop an influx of cormorant birds feeding on the fish.

Volunteers will be out in force for the next three Saturdays. Anyone who wants to help can contact Keith Garfoot on (01572) 770893 for details of when and where to meet.