A CLEAN-UP operation for a stretch of the Leeds & Liverpool Canal running through Brierfield had to be abandoned — when a workboat was left stranded.

Borough-council officials in Pendle and a host of environmental campaigners were due to remove litter and debris from the canal’s towpath on March 21, from Brierfield Mill through to Lomeshaye Road.

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But the Canal & River Trust confirmed that the canal needed to be drained from Finsley Gate to Manchester Road bridge in Burnley to identify the source of a leak.

David Walker, the council’s environmental-services manager, said that this meant a workboat, which was needed to reach inaccessible spots along the canal banks, was no longer available.

Another clean-up day is being planned for Brierfield, on a date to be confirmed in April, in association with the trust.