A 183-year-old lock has reopened following specialist repairs.
Bevere Lock on the River Severn, near Worcester, is now fully operational after essential works were carried out by the Canal & River Trust.
A recent inspection revealed a faulty paddle that was preventing the lock from filling properly, affecting boaters travelling between Stourport and Gloucester.
Located below the waterline, the fault required specialist divers to remove the paddle so it could be repaired on land before being reinstalled.
During the closure, improvements were also made to the lock gate gearing mechanism, and all other paddles were inspected to ensure they were functioning correctly.
Bevere Lock (Image: Canal & River Trust)
Rob Labus, contract manager south at the Canal & River Trust, said: “The repairs required at Bevere Lock were particularly challenging because of the work that needed to be carried out underwater.
“This was undertaken using specialist teams and equipment.
“Our teams worked hard to complete the repairs and reopen the lock to navigation as quickly and safely as possible.”
Bevere Lock, built between 1843 and 1845, is the furthest upstream of four locks on the River Severn and is operated electronically.
In 2020, a 100-metre fish pass was constructed alongside the lock as part of the Unlocking the Severn project, allowing migratory fish such as the twaite shad to travel upstream safely.
The repairs come as the Canal & River Trust is also investing £355,000 in lock gate repairs at Diglis Small Lock in Worcester.
Mr Labus said ongoing investment is essential.
He said: “The locks on the River Severn play a vital role in supporting navigation.
“Given their age, and the increasing challenges posed by climate change and extreme weather, it is essential that our charity is able to continue to invest in their maintenance so they can serve boaters and local communities for many years to come.”
More information is available at canalrivertrust.org.uk.
