A NEW picturesque picnic area has opened by the canal at Saul Junction.

The new area in Frampton has been designed to provide space for up to four wheelchairs at the adapted tables at the mid-point of Gloucester & Sharpness Canal.

Volunteers from the Canal & River Trust have spent eight months building the new picnic spot.

Malcolm Humphries, lead volunteer for Saul Junction at the Canal & River Trust said: "The new wheelchair-friendly picnic area is a great addition: we want everybody to be able to enjoy the benefits of spending time by the water. 

“Our volunteers have done a fantastic job in building this accessible space which is sure to be a popular spot for visitors throughout the summer. 

The project was supported by the People's Postcode Lottery and two local firms who donated materials. 

The Cullimore Group provided the hardcore and pre-mix concrete that makes up the foundations of the area. 

Meanwhile, Highfield Garden World in Whitminster donated plants that have been planted in an old dinghy, gifted by the Cotswold Canal Trust, which has been split into two planters.

The new picnic area follows previous support of the People’s Postcode Lottery. 

Projects at Saul Junction also include the creation of a wildlife pond to attract great crested newts, hedgerow work and towpath improvements.

He added: "We are grateful to the players of People's Postcode Lottery, the Cullimore Group and Highfield Garden World for their support. 

“Without their contributions it would not have been possible to build this accessible space and, as a charity, we welcome the help of organisations who can support our work.

"Our volunteers do a wonderful job making Saul Junction a fantastic place to be. 

“They look after mowing, strimming and the upkeep of planters, while picking up litter and maintaining a stretch of the canal from Fretherne Bridge towards Longney."

A ceremony to officially open the picnic area will take place on Monday, April 8 at 2pm.

Representatives from Cullimores and Highfields will join volunteers and colleagues from the Canal & River Trust.