Lengthsman

Employed originally by the 'Lords of the Manor' and latterly by parish councils, they would keep grass and weeds down in verges, keep drainage ditches clear and repair fences.

[3] Lengthsman tasks on land in the 21st century are/were biased towards tending areas of a central "common" or greens and minor drainage matters.

This has proven far more cost effective and resulted in far speedier conclusion of work than going through the usual system of contracting though or via the higher tiers such as the District or County Council.

[4] Lengthsmen were used specifically on the English canal system from its inception in the late 18th century, being responsible especially for lengths of towpath and, in the absence of a lock-keeper, for locks, their trappings and surroundings.

Potential GU lengthsman groups and individuals were identified en route at the Slough Arm, at Coxley, Stoke Breurne and Blisworth.