PEOPLE were encouraged to take the water and make the most of their recently rejuvenated canal during a weekend event.

Saturday's Canal Awareness Day in Risca was a joint initiative led by the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal Trust.

Spokesman Chris Morgan said the idea was to show people how the local authority and bodies such as the canal trust, had put in time and effort to regenerate their canal.

"Over the last two years, Caerphilly council and ourselves have put a lot of work into the Crumlin arm of the canal," he said.

"Around £2-£3 million worth of work has been completed over the last two years, with extensive dredging and clearing operations."

Saturday's event focused on a stretch of canal in Risca, from Navigation Road to Gelli Avenue.

Two years ago the waterway was totally neglected, and clogged with weeds and rubbish.

Today, thanks to the work of a dedicated band of volunteers from the trust, and financial backing from the local authority, it was transformed.

"We want people to realise the canal's full potential for leisure activities, and enjoyment for the whole community, and the huge amount of people it attracts from outside the area," said Mr Morgan.