FAMILIES made the most of the autumn sunshine and turned out to enjoy some watery fun on a Gwent canal at the weekend.

Saturday's boat rally at Five Locks, Cwmbran, was organised by Monmouthshire, Brecon and Abergavenny Canal Trust.

According to trust spokesman Chris Morgan it's all part of an ongoing campaign by the Trust to encourage more local people to make use of the canal and help in its conservation.

"We've got to look after the canal otherwise it will become overgrown," said Mr Morgan.

Around 13 boats of all sizes from Monmouthshire and Torfaen made the trip - the furthest afield came from Gilwern.

The trust is currently in the process of regenerating parts of the canal in Cwmbran and Newport, with the aim of making it navigable from Brecon to Newport.

Mr Morgan said volunteers had worked tirelessly to restore it to its former glory.

Saturday's initiative combined a boat rally stalls and entertainment, including boat rides and a live jazz band.

"The event was sponsored by Torfaen council's local members who have been very supportive," said Mr Morgan.