A storm-damaged canal culvert in Chippenham is being repaired thanks to a donation from plastic pipes company Wavin.

A project to restore a 30-metre section of the Wilts and Berks Canal at Pewsham was thwarted by heavy rain.

But Wavin stepped in and supplied drainage products to divert a stream running underneath the canal, so 10 metres of exposed culvert can be rebuilt and the towpath restored to its original position and level.

Ray Canter of Wilts and Berks Canal Trust said: “With the heavy winter rains last winter, the century-old brick-built culvert sprung a leak which needed repairs.

“Wavin very kindly donated the pipe system, which is being used as a temporary measure during the repair.”

The canal links the Kennet and Avon Canal at Semington to the River Thames at Abingdon.

The trust is installing fencing, connecting bridges and drainage and removing trees.