A VOLUNTEER who played a leading role in the regeneration of the Monmouthshire, Brecon and Abergavenny Canal has been recognised with a national award.

Richard Dommett, MBE, has worked for 15 years in a voluntary capacity as the regeneration manager for the Monmouthshire, Brecon and Abergavenny Canal Trust.

Since retiring in 2002 he has campaigned and fundraised at a local and national level for the restoration of UK canals and waterways, including working on the Waterworks Project which aims to reopen the section of canal in Ty Coch, Cwmbran.

During his time as site manager, Mr Dommett has supported more than 200 volunteers, helping many young people who were not in education or education find jobs.

He was recently awarded the Christopher Power Prize by the Inland Waterways Association which recognises the person, society or trust who has made the most significant contribution to the restoration on an inland waterway.

Mr Dommett said: “I am very humbled by this award, but one person couldn’t have done this alone and it is really an award for the hundreds of volunteers and others who have worked so hard on this project.

“We are doing this for the community, to improve the local environment and ultimately give people the training and skills they need to get jobs. We have achieved a lot over the years but there is much more we could do and I hope that the project continues to secure funding to allow it to continue into the future.”