BOATERS who complete the 30 locks that make up the Tardebigge Lock Flight, which is the longest in the country, will now be awarded with a new certificate.

The Canal and River Trust, the charity that cares for the nation’s waterways, is launching the new certificate for boat enthusiasts who complete the two-and-a-quarter mile route.

Timothy Booker, Canal and River Trust waterway supervisor, said: “Tardebigge Flight covers such a scenic section of the Worcester and Birmingham Canal and navigating through 30 locks takes a lot of effort, so we want to recognise anyone who completes the challenge.

“Hopefully it gives further gravitas to the Flight, which is a bit of sleeping giant.

“It’s a major waterway landmark enjoyed by boaters and other visitors throughout the year.

“We think that life is better by water, it’s great that so many people are choosing to visit the canal in one way or other, and if recognition of their efforts can encourage more people then that’s great.”

The Flight is the longest in the country, with navigation of all the locks taking anywhere up to five hours.

The route enables boats to ascend or descend 67 metres in height, higher than the tower of Worcester Cathedral.

More than 1,900 people are estimated to have made the trip this summer.

Mr Booker added: “A special mention must also go to our team of volunteer lock keepers who give up their time to help people navigate the locks.

“With so many locks, a bit of help is often very much appreciated. As a charity it’s fantastic that so many people continue to support our work and bring extra life and enthusiasm to such a beautiful stretch of canal.”

Boaters keen to claim their certificate can do so by scanning on a QR code located on posters on the flight or by emailing timothy.booker@canalrivertrust.org.uk.