Campaigners said funding cuts to British Waterways will mean canals and rivers will not be properly maintained.

Canal boats will blockade the Johnson's Hill Lock Flight between Wigan and Blackburn on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal in protest.

Defra said the British Waterways grant had to be cut after an overspend amid bird flu fears and new farm subsidies.

The weekend protest has been organised by Wheelton Boat Club.

Less safe

Jack Carr, of the club, said: "We have seen it all once before when waterways were neglected through a failure of government to adequately invest them.

"This government says it's made a difference by providing adequate funding over the last few years, so why is it now letting this success slip from its fingers?

"Uncared for waterways are less attractive, less popular and less safe, and this shouldn't be allowed to happen."