The portion of the Rochdale Canal in Oldham has closed to navigation due to vandalism.

The paddle was left open at Lock 65, near Alfred Street in Failsworth, leading to a closure since Monday.

The canal is closed to boat navigation between Lock 64 Kay Lane, near Firwood Park, and Lock 81 Butler Street, in Ancoats, Manchester.

Boaters have shared their frustration at the closure, meaning they cannot get through.

The Oldham Times: A map shows the extent of the closureA map shows the extent of the closure (Image: Canal and River Trust/Google)

As of Wednesday, March 29, the closure remains in place, with the Canal and River Trust waiting for water levels to replenish.

The towpath remains open to those wishing to walk or cycle.

The Canal and River Trust has promised a further update on the situation on Friday, March 31.

On the Rochdale Canal Facebook group, boaters shared their frustration with the closure.

Boater Daniel Farnworth said: "That's me stuck in Manchester for now, Rochdale Canals closed lock 64 to 81 as someone's left the paddle open. Update tomorrow hopefully won't take to long to fill the pound up."

Replying to another boater who shared her experience of being stuck for five weeks on a previous journey, Daniel continued: "Fingers crossed it only takes a day or two to fill back up. Hoping to get to Littlebourgh for weekend and Hebden Bridge for Easter Bank Holiday weekend."