His Royal Highness, The Prince of Wales, a long-time supporter of the waterways, will become the first Patron of the new Canal & River Trust, the body being set up to care for the historic canals and rivers of England and Wales.

The news was announced at the first meeting of the CRT's Council in Birmingham on Wednesday, where members confirmed the appointment of the charity’s founding Trustees.

The Trustees have released an update on their progress – it can be read here