tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16476556441920719032024-03-05T13:34:09.388+00:00Blue MoonJohn and Louisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306401098175678313noreply@blogger.comBlogger112125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647655644192071903.post-10953267820254341172014-10-09T19:25:00.000+01:002014-10-09T19:25:36.226+01:00And Finally..........<div style="text-align: justify;">
This seems a good point to wrap up our blog for 'Blue Moon' and start afresh with a new blog for our new boat. We have had a very enjoyable year of boating and the decision to swap boats was not foreseen at all. But, we have to say, we are absolutely delighted with what we have done and look forward to getting out and about even more next year. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The countdown to retirement continues and six months from today I will be able to say goodbye for the last time after 30 years service. Not wanting to wish my life away at all, but as each door closes another one opens I guess.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Checking the internet this afternoon, Blue Moon is now officially 'sold', so I suppose that also helps with the decision to close down this particular blog. I understand that the new owners are from the West Midlands and so we hope that we will cross paths at some point in the future.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
As for us, we'll just keep ploddin' along. Thanks to all of you that have visited us in blogland. Our new blog will be available soon at <a href="http://nbploddinalong.blogspot.co.uk/">nbploddinalong.blogspot.co.uk</a> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<br />John and Louisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306401098175678313noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647655644192071903.post-77588253615927126432014-10-09T19:10:00.001+01:002014-10-09T19:10:15.096+01:00All 'Thai'd up' in Loughborough<div style="text-align: justify;">
Over a month since our last blog.....really ?? Where does that time go.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Not much has been happening boating wise since we arrived back from our lovely trip on the Macclesfield and Peak Forest last month. Fiona is now the boat with no name as we have stripped the vinyl decals off the side panels and are awaiting our sign writer <a href="http://www.mwsignwriters.co.uk/" target="_blank">Jim</a> to finalize our new design and then it will be all systems go to get her painted up. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Last night we took the short drive over to Loughborough to meet up with Joe & Lesley on <a href="http://nbyarwood.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">Yarwood</a> and had a thoroughly enjoyable evening in their company. After a quick look at the improvements made to Yarwood over the summer (very nice too), we headed off around the corner to <a href="http://www.albionmyway.co.uk/" target="_blank">The Albion</a>, a pub we have passed on many occasions, but never ventured in. Apparently the building was originally a farmhouse dating back to the 18th century. I have to say that the landlord certainly knows how to keep a pint, and a pint of his guest pale ale went down a treat. Unfortunately they weren't doing food, but he highly recommended the <a href="http://www.thaigrand.co.uk/" target="_blank">Thai Grand</a> only a short distance away, and so after allowing us to leave the car in his car park (nice chap) off we went for a meal. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjupyNsdm6gSFJLVpk-pORSBudfpiMNVkU0O9mUGShmT2tf_cuxxWXUUj5sKUdNNk5mmnSufuJbh5D2wj7fPD01Nax9ABVmteug8QvelXRJjqEO96tT6omx1hC8YimTwElK1g-I5RSOio7Q/s1600/IMG_0379.JPG.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjupyNsdm6gSFJLVpk-pORSBudfpiMNVkU0O9mUGShmT2tf_cuxxWXUUj5sKUdNNk5mmnSufuJbh5D2wj7fPD01Nax9ABVmteug8QvelXRJjqEO96tT6omx1hC8YimTwElK1g-I5RSOio7Q/s1600/IMG_0379.JPG.jpeg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">'Himself' and Lesley about to demolish a starter</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq7zZXpbBDX2s5kou2E2qIgtfqB3chHDjKUZ-87lAcLQkDwVWLItBVOobe7vMXk4CQIL6fIrVpG_yIkeiP31F8j82Qjs7uauq0Rdb49HGA24nnQOVHTy8RD9hLFphZqeQGZHs9O_hcSNps/s1600/IMG_0382.JPG.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq7zZXpbBDX2s5kou2E2qIgtfqB3chHDjKUZ-87lAcLQkDwVWLItBVOobe7vMXk4CQIL6fIrVpG_yIkeiP31F8j82Qjs7uauq0Rdb49HGA24nnQOVHTy8RD9hLFphZqeQGZHs9O_hcSNps/s1600/IMG_0382.JPG.jpeg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Impressive knife work !!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The meal was first class and the service very friendly. If you are in Loughborough and like Thai food the place is an absolute must.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Back to The Albion for another pint, just to make sure it was as good as we thought it was, before we said our goodbyes. A lovely evening with lovely people. Good to see you both again and enjoy your 'winter' adventure.</div>
John and Louisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306401098175678313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647655644192071903.post-81894409062534109672014-09-03T23:41:00.002+01:002014-09-03T23:46:42.154+01:00Toothache, friends and back through Harecastle. <div style="text-align: justify;">
The first job for Monday was to try and get Louise an emergency dental appointment. The telephone lines opened at 9am and she managed to get a slot at 2pm in Macclesfield - marvellous. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We made the short trip back to Gurnett Aqueduct and moored up around midday. Taxi booked for 1.40pm (some 90 minutes later) for the 3 mile trip - planning. Off she trots down the steps to the Old Kings Head at 1.30pm in plenty of time for the pick up and at 1.55pm she's still stood there waiting !! Simply incompetent. Heavy traffic is to blame apparently........in Macclesfield ??</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Anyway the dentist was very good and sent her away with some strong antibiotics. We decided to stay put for the night and Jasper and I decided to go for a looooooong walk as the tablets took a bit of time to start working and we were best out of the way. I'm pleased to say (yes, I really am) she's now back on form, pain free and talking again. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX7RhspHJG3CdspTSuM6H4qMvxGUBVCgm5r9w9zft5hrFNKsDjcbmxoeG_giT84ZjkpgvDMK3WJByZBC8kcxwLGZbmjSf0b7lTo2sjvB0acQI2fk2mcRDcDT8txYk41dAtUCJLBYp57OkA/s1600/2014_+9_+3_23_+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX7RhspHJG3CdspTSuM6H4qMvxGUBVCgm5r9w9zft5hrFNKsDjcbmxoeG_giT84ZjkpgvDMK3WJByZBC8kcxwLGZbmjSf0b7lTo2sjvB0acQI2fk2mcRDcDT8txYk41dAtUCJLBYp57OkA/s1600/2014_+9_+3_23_+5.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leaving Macclesfield on a beautiful morning</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Tuesday was a fabulous day. We headed back to Bosley Locks and were pleased to see the top lock being opened for us as we approached.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R7Iy-CFOtaE/VAeQtVFC8yI/AAAAAAAABpw/jSTiCi8fDFk/s1600/2014_%2B9_%2B3_23_%2B5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R7Iy-CFOtaE/VAeQtVFC8yI/AAAAAAAABpw/jSTiCi8fDFk/s1600/2014_%2B9_%2B3_23_%2B5.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bosley Top Lock</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The first six or seven locks were all in our favour. Plenty of folks about and boats coming up the flight helped. The bottom half was a bit slower as we had to turn locks as there was a boat some distance ahead, but on this flight that really isn't a problem as you take in the scenery. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a_V4RvBjNJY/VAeQhxb9M3I/AAAAAAAABpg/l26FTg3C6TY/s1600/2014_%2B9_%2B3_23_%2B4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a_V4RvBjNJY/VAeQhxb9M3I/AAAAAAAABpg/l26FTg3C6TY/s1600/2014_%2B9_%2B3_23_%2B4.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jasper taking it easy towards Scholar Green</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We knew that our friends David & Sarah on nb The Hodma'dod were at Scholar Green and we managed to get in next to them before welcoming them aboard for drinks. Jasper was delighted as he entertained their two Border Terriers Tansie & Teasle. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-16k9g74BBSY/VAeQja8ev0I/AAAAAAAABpo/Zw7EfOY175w/s1600/2014_%2B9_%2B3_23_%2B4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-16k9g74BBSY/VAeQja8ev0I/AAAAAAAABpo/Zw7EfOY175w/s1600/2014_%2B9_%2B3_23_%2B4.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sarah with Teasle & Tansie (and a large wine)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Later we went to the nearby <a href="http://www.brilliantpubs.co.uk/risingsuncheshire" target="_blank">Rising Sun</a> for dinner. Good job that David had booked as it was packed. Excellent meal had by all and I can certainly recommend the 'trio of pork' - absolutely delicious. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Today we headed off about 9am after saying goodbye to David & Sarah. As we headed over the Red Bull aqueduct, four walkers smiled and said hello. I recognised one of them (or I thought I did) as a chap who I used to work with over 20 years ago. I called over to him and he confirmed it was indeed who I thought it was (phew) - another example of this small world we live in. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Back onto the T&M and first boat in the 'queue' for Harecastle Tunnel. Estimate was an hour before we could be let in, so time to have a wander round and take a few pics. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w2VGPWXP0-Y/VAeQPgePJwI/AAAAAAAABpQ/8mKAoiBc6Gc/s1600/2014_%2B9_%2B3_23_%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w2VGPWXP0-Y/VAeQPgePJwI/AAAAAAAABpQ/8mKAoiBc6Gc/s1600/2014_%2B9_%2B3_23_%2B1.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waiting in the orange water</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JX4BYMmmca4/VAeQfzK5t8I/AAAAAAAABpY/RiGGiibisQQ/s1600/2014_%2B9_%2B3_23_%2B3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JX4BYMmmca4/VAeQfzK5t8I/AAAAAAAABpY/RiGGiibisQQ/s1600/2014_%2B9_%2B3_23_%2B3.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Once out at the other end, everything was going well until we collected a piece of soft furniture, pillow, cushion or similar on the prop, so a trip down the weed hatch followed. Once cleared it was on to Etruria and the Stoke Locks. Very quiet today and we didn't see another boat until we exited the bottom lock. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9dcF9_xExEY/VAeRS2mHy4I/AAAAAAAABqI/eY5eeJVYqFo/s1600/2014_%2B9_%2B3_23_%2B7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9dcF9_xExEY/VAeRS2mHy4I/AAAAAAAABqI/eY5eeJVYqFo/s1600/2014_%2B9_%2B3_23_%2B7.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Etruscan Bone & Flint Mill dated 1857</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eZNIn-4_QPU/VAeRc14n12I/AAAAAAAABqQ/Yf2rqCpq4vQ/s1600/2014_%2B9_%2B3_23_%2B8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eZNIn-4_QPU/VAeRc14n12I/AAAAAAAABqQ/Yf2rqCpq4vQ/s1600/2014_%2B9_%2B3_23_%2B8.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bottle Kilns in amongst new housing</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We are now at Barlaston for the night. Some decent fishing and a very boring England performance against Norway have filled the evening. </div>
John and Louisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306401098175678313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647655644192071903.post-85120886436355493732014-08-31T21:40:00.002+01:002014-08-31T21:41:35.276+01:00All quiet back on The Macc<div style="text-align: justify;">
After a lovely couple of days at Bugsworth Basin with friends coming and going to take our minds off the wet weather, we are now heading back south on the Macclesfield Canal.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We hung around the basin on Saturday morning hoping the rain would clear as the forecast had promised. I took the opportunity of a walk around as the history and work which went into re-opening the basin is fascinating.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-taLb5e7UN0U/VAOFmdcTitI/AAAAAAAABoA/Y-iVWZFhhNo/s1600/2014_%2B8_31_21_29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-taLb5e7UN0U/VAOFmdcTitI/AAAAAAAABoA/Y-iVWZFhhNo/s1600/2014_%2B8_31_21_29.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P4YraI2Yh5k/VAOFqyN1fuI/AAAAAAAABoQ/amioYn7vzRE/s1600/2014_%2B8_31_21_29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P4YraI2Yh5k/VAOFqyN1fuI/AAAAAAAABoQ/amioYn7vzRE/s1600/2014_%2B8_31_21_29.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Interesting model of the basin</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OIpJbqpPXwQ/VAOFthPisII/AAAAAAAABoY/HFDw3cAsK-4/s1600/2014_%2B8_31_21_29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OIpJbqpPXwQ/VAOFthPisII/AAAAAAAABoY/HFDw3cAsK-4/s1600/2014_%2B8_31_21_29.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our mooring in the middle basin</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Before we left, one of my old work mates popped by again on his Indian built Enfield motorbike. You could certainly hear him coming from some distance away !!</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYyTrF-qNPg102-zstYXxNYPQ9u-1u7-42Re9-jCWADN4i3gUfvvnqEVB9_vXd5v438sWahLgluphLz0dDHXxsPMOf1VLckjfbGlkGqJ_CYeTw2GuG6ZO8FmOcVzDOadvQor4fym4dS1uJ/s1600/2014_+8_31_21_29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYyTrF-qNPg102-zstYXxNYPQ9u-1u7-42Re9-jCWADN4i3gUfvvnqEVB9_vXd5v438sWahLgluphLz0dDHXxsPMOf1VLckjfbGlkGqJ_CYeTw2GuG6ZO8FmOcVzDOadvQor4fym4dS1uJ/s1600/2014_+8_31_21_29.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eric and his Enfield</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We had barely seen any boats coming and going over the last couple of days, but having watered up, we appeared to have left at just the right time as we passed 8 boats heading for the basin before we reached Furness Vale. There was a boat ahead of us in the distance as we approached the first swing bridge. We were in view, so why oh why would you shut the bridge, jump back on your boat and clear off. Not once, twice or even three times, but all four swing bridges were the same. In the end I gave up shaking my head and just smiled, more in sympathy I think. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vW_cb3ZldW0/VAOGnwLebfI/AAAAAAAABpA/2muardgj6Po/s1600/2014_%2B8_31_21_32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vW_cb3ZldW0/VAOGnwLebfI/AAAAAAAABpA/2muardgj6Po/s1600/2014_%2B8_31_21_32.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We noticed this sign (you couldn't really miss it) near New Mills. Apparently if you brush against this stuff and then are subjected to sunlight, most people suffer severe blistering of the skin and it can take years for the symptoms to subside. No wonder the sign was so visible.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We weren't planning in going far, but the Peak Forest is so shallow and despite our best efforts we couldn't get in at locations which took our fancy and so ended up turning left at Marple Junction and back onto the Macc and mooring out in the country and mile or so from the junction.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Today has been a very lazy day. A bit of a lie in before we set off late morning. As we pushed away from the bank, Louise set off walking, she thought with Jasper, but he had other ideas and hopped back on the boat. He couldn't quite work it out why 'Mum' was walking without him and so went to try and find out with a wander along the gunwale. It's certainly the first time he's displayed any cat-like tendencies and I'm pleased to say that it ended well as he hopped off at the next bridge and resumed his walk with Louise. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iiSVAbSag8A/VAOF0Qe14vI/AAAAAAAABoo/ple-AQ7dXqg/s1600/2014_%2B8_31_21_29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iiSVAbSag8A/VAOF0Qe14vI/AAAAAAAABoo/ple-AQ7dXqg/s1600/2014_%2B8_31_21_29.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mum.......where are you going ??</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
There have been very few boats moving about today, despite the good weather. Plenty of Braidbar Boats at Higher Poynton where there seemed to be a bit of a gathering going on. A few day boats about with people enjoying themselves and lots of walkers, cyclists and runners, but other than that, very quiet indeed. It's even very quiet inside the boat too, as Louise is battling a bout of toothache and an emergency dentist may be needed sooner rather than later. There's only so many painkillers you can take in one day !!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
John and Louisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306401098175678313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647655644192071903.post-36148481043301015242014-08-30T00:19:00.001+01:002014-08-31T16:13:22.199+01:00Back on my old stomping ground<div style="text-align: justify;">
The last few days have been great. Fabulous scenery, good company and the chance to catch up with some old work colleagues.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Bosley Locks was early on the agenda for Wednesday. We really enjoy this flight of 12 locks and it's hard to believe that they are the only ones, apart from the stop lock at Hall Green, on this 26 mile stretch of canal when you are surrounded by hills for most of its length. We were straight into the flight as a boat was just leaving the bottom lock as we approached. We shared the locking and the steering and met a couple of boats coming down, and only having to turn one lock as we ascended the flight. Without seeming to rush at all and taking in the views as we went, we were at the top in under 2 hours. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DQDpo--9eIY/VAEFfvdYsDI/AAAAAAAABmE/92y1NLSE7BE/s1600/2014_%2B8_29_23_53.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DQDpo--9eIY/VAEFfvdYsDI/AAAAAAAABmE/92y1NLSE7BE/s1600/2014_%2B8_29_23_53.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwrwAmW55ldFvgCN7YnIgkg2TIZZuO6AhcE0LygCYKwOnT-nCafgnFm5txmvSS9y1o2Lz4Pp1DJw78CSSvVHSKZKKXMmlLAhb0ZkJI6XARdxRX5x1ZP5fr9Q_bjTegHA7N4qZmXzWsdxOh/s1600/2014_+8_29_23_58.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwrwAmW55ldFvgCN7YnIgkg2TIZZuO6AhcE0LygCYKwOnT-nCafgnFm5txmvSS9y1o2Lz4Pp1DJw78CSSvVHSKZKKXMmlLAhb0ZkJI6XARdxRX5x1ZP5fr9Q_bjTegHA7N4qZmXzWsdxOh/s1600/2014_+8_29_23_58.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bosley Locks</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The phrase 'It's a small world' is often heard, and today was no exception. Louise was chatting to a couple of walkers half way up the flight who were watching us through a lock as they had a picnic lunch. Louise thought she recognised the lady, but couldn't place her. Turns out she works at our local supermarket in Derby. I'm sure the chap she was with would have been her husband..................</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Louise was again at the helm as we approached Fools Nook electric swing bridge. She's not a fan of technology - turning keys and pressing buttons and all that. Just one 'City Link' van held up for all of a minute or two, but looking less than impressed by the experience. I'm sure he appreciated my cheery wave and thank you as he sped off once the barriers raised. Slow down man !!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgym27ofW3ep6UrTQ9yr_3G6QXi4qjcWaBLfUrGkEimtAjmGCYhy2tOI6V6NLfMFnt0uxLxTxIUzUM1Pu2-LW7LSJY2fdHleudNXOpueoa-GOLXIVzq6KWatRVtLrpChBHsGz-L3SmoaGVW/s1600/2014_+8_30_+0_+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgym27ofW3ep6UrTQ9yr_3G6QXi4qjcWaBLfUrGkEimtAjmGCYhy2tOI6V6NLfMFnt0uxLxTxIUzUM1Pu2-LW7LSJY2fdHleudNXOpueoa-GOLXIVzq6KWatRVtLrpChBHsGz-L3SmoaGVW/s1600/2014_+8_30_+0_+2.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Approaching Macclesfield</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We were heading for Gurnett Aqueduct for the night and hoping there would be room. We were in luck as we rounded the bend, although the rings here seem to be awkwardly spaced and very wide apart. We were soon joined by our youngest son Luke and his girlfriend Annabelle who were going to be with us for a couple of days and we decided to try the <a href="http://www.brunningandprice.co.uk/suttonhall/menus/daily-menu/" target="_blank">Sutton Hall</a> pub close by. What a lovely place. 480 years old and a former convent amongst other things. A fabulous meal, a varied and interesting menu (Louise loved her tandoori Hake fillet with cauliflower bhajis) friendly service and dog friendly too. A definite winner.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J65Mu7VS9b0/VAEHTzwDy8I/AAAAAAAABmc/HssYHyXK6Vw/s1600/2014_%2B8_30_%2B0_%2B3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J65Mu7VS9b0/VAEHTzwDy8I/AAAAAAAABmc/HssYHyXK6Vw/s1600/2014_%2B8_30_%2B0_%2B3.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sutton Hall. Luke not really wanting to be photographed !!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Yesterday we moved on up to Bugsworth Basin. Sunshine most of the way apart from a very brief shower. Not many boats moving at all and of course lock free, so the new crew were pretty redundant. The old mills along this stretch are a reminder of the industry that once was. Clarence Mill at Bollington in particular is a magnificent building.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KETIwQX7dCk/VAEHxiQb5UI/AAAAAAAABmk/nZ1P4h_MFkU/s1600/2014_%2B8_30_%2B0_%2B5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KETIwQX7dCk/VAEHxiQb5UI/AAAAAAAABmk/nZ1P4h_MFkU/s1600/2014_%2B8_30_%2B0_%2B5.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clarence Mill</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We were at Marple Junction by early afternoon and turned right onto the Peak Forest. The water is a little down on this normally shallow water and we scraped the bottom on several occasions. The crew were soon in action on the swing bridges along here. The views out over the hills were fabulous once again.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l66r3qTXODg/VAEIINAgD1I/AAAAAAAABmw/sA9fS_4EcO8/s1600/2014_%2B8_30_%2B0_%2B7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l66r3qTXODg/VAEIINAgD1I/AAAAAAAABmw/sA9fS_4EcO8/s1600/2014_%2B8_30_%2B0_%2B7.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMiah5d3VElaXzRizOGo5kenft_-ZdbFrqSgecVHQ8QaGxG7pTjuF1MMC5yz3b4E9bT9hQh0MaoY2tZgwh13f0Uz6NN2idTh-CbpuSJ8MWMSJrV9gjWtvItP_J4QbACA315pyokv-fFzPD/s1600/2014_+8_30_+0_+9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMiah5d3VElaXzRizOGo5kenft_-ZdbFrqSgecVHQ8QaGxG7pTjuF1MMC5yz3b4E9bT9hQh0MaoY2tZgwh13f0Uz6NN2idTh-CbpuSJ8MWMSJrV9gjWtvItP_J4QbACA315pyokv-fFzPD/s1600/2014_+8_30_+0_+9.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Views across to the hills...........magnificent</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Passing through New Mills, the smell from the Swizzels sweet factory was lovely. I'm sure everyone has tasted a packet of 'Love Hearts' in their time. Well this is where they came from.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhteK5KaN9hvXJw-_M3Y0716pGbfEtBmMPKMMhLGCkj4-hp1N4KMX55fiX2A6HL66f7TbU6qXtfdWfbYvP2Xpf3s4K09ld3jD_j5wr3RBNidqcxVPbYP31oXGpm6kHMAMQLDdUlbxMN4vvU/s1600/2014_+8_30_+0_13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhteK5KaN9hvXJw-_M3Y0716pGbfEtBmMPKMMhLGCkj4-hp1N4KMX55fiX2A6HL66f7TbU6qXtfdWfbYvP2Xpf3s4K09ld3jD_j5wr3RBNidqcxVPbYP31oXGpm6kHMAMQLDdUlbxMN4vvU/s1600/2014_+8_30_+0_13.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Swizzels factory</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Bugsworth is a lovely spot to moor and pretty quiet at the minute. Just a handful of boats scattered around the basins.<br />
<br />
We ate last night at The Navigation, once run by Pat Phoenix of Coronation Street fame, before we were joined by our friends Paul and Jane for drinks. Today we have stayed put. We had always planned to stay here for a day or two as we have the time, plus the weather has been very wet. It was a chance to invite some of my old work mates along for a catch up. I worked up here as a young cop back in the 80's and have a lot of great memories and friends up here. We have had a steady stream all day and it's been great taking a trip back down Memory Lane with them. </div>
John and Louisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306401098175678313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647655644192071903.post-50508788236527620052014-08-26T22:25:00.001+01:002014-08-26T22:32:45.887+01:00The tunnel is alive with the sound of music. <div style="text-align: justify;">
The curtains were opened early this morning and it was very tempting to shut them straight away and go back to sleep. Grey skies, rain and wind greeted us, but the forecast was for an improving day and so we were soon up and way towards Stoke wrapped up in some warm wet weather clothing.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The five Stoke locks were all with us and no queues, but plenty waiting at the top lock to travel down. We headed on towards Harecastle Tunnel and were soon being 'chased down' by another boat. Now we don't travel what I would call slowly, but this guy was catching us hand over fist. Personally, I'd rather let quicker boats pass as I'm not keen on having a boat sitting on the back button, so as soon as an opportunity presented itself, I slowed right down and signalled for the steerer to pass. Now if we overtake another moving boat we do it slowly so that it makes it easy for both of us, but not this guy. Full steam ahead as he passed and to make it worse radio on full blast....it had to be that way so he could hear it over the engine.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Another couple of miles up to the tunnel portal and it turned out there were five boats ahead of us. As we arrived we knew it was midday as the news came on the radio.....not ours you understand, but our friend who was now moored ahead of us. We commented on the fact that at least he wouldn't get a radio signal in the tunnel !!</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKYvE2TZN6Xb_qRq2RQVH8W8qiuNqnRWMnV9apUMnON7DsLzRosIFQN4e3UfvAQmwU2RuAQz4IFXBluoM-x6L0kL_dKjmbn9VKpwGy09ElIMPIfXzOFY6vefUaabAVj8PDMAwAT3wSuBz1/s1600/2014_+8_26_22_+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKYvE2TZN6Xb_qRq2RQVH8W8qiuNqnRWMnV9apUMnON7DsLzRosIFQN4e3UfvAQmwU2RuAQz4IFXBluoM-x6L0kL_dKjmbn9VKpwGy09ElIMPIfXzOFY6vefUaabAVj8PDMAwAT3wSuBz1/s1600/2014_+8_26_22_+6.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Queuing at Southern Portal</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We had a wait of about half an hour before the oncoming boats had all emerged and we started to enter. We were tail end Charlie and all boats left a decent gap between. The fans were soon on and the air rushing back past us. The going was pretty slow and before long the sound of the fans was soon over ridden by the sound of music !! No radio signal, but we were 'treated' to the greatest hits of Nat King Cole for the entire length of the tunnel. Bearing in mind you have the noise of boat engines to contend with in such a small space, Louise could name half the songs as the music was so loud and clear (slightly worrying I have to say). It was certainly a different experience. We have travelled through Harecastle many times, but never accompanied by music. Maybe CaRT could consider a speaker system and play relaxing music for those not keen on tunnel travel or maybe they could just issue this joker with an ASBO !!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The journey was indeed a slow one. The tunnel keeper at the northern end informed us that the second boat through had held everyone up and had emerged 16 minutes after the lead boat. Maybe the lead boat didn't like Nat King Cole and the second one did ?? Thankfully most of the boats ahead stayed on the T&M and we turned left at Hardings Wood Junction, leaving our resident DJ on nb Eigerdancer to 'entertain' the other boats queuing at the locks. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe5V2k3nDU70LbP5uFMQBHCMIe1Qn5oY76LYq_iA0agg2YoDqJaBveR3BQY6C-cHhzElA08DK4pHyfXuqLaRs1nS7jZ0VPQrVRBrhw_FIkzjhoyFjhYTwf62BYFBTXtE5kdgOJrHBHlvQ1/s1600/2014_+8_26_22_+9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe5V2k3nDU70LbP5uFMQBHCMIe1Qn5oY76LYq_iA0agg2YoDqJaBveR3BQY6C-cHhzElA08DK4pHyfXuqLaRs1nS7jZ0VPQrVRBrhw_FIkzjhoyFjhYTwf62BYFBTXtE5kdgOJrHBHlvQ1/s1600/2014_+8_26_22_+9.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">If only our pictures had sound !!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Peace and quiet now regained, we headed up to the stop lock at Hall Green and then dropped onto the water point just beyond.<br />
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkPIiG6-BSo9sdwASoNnWBrP3pL7wOUyYHmj5KhKF4P9n9S8FiY5ycdmbwe6zIBUr7X6j7vhd0R077ZBg92NbGyn8cs02evVzEbeEvywWklMmX5lOS37J80F0yVsijesWg6fEER4SPTLbE/s1600/2014_+8_26_22_10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkPIiG6-BSo9sdwASoNnWBrP3pL7wOUyYHmj5KhKF4P9n9S8FiY5ycdmbwe6zIBUr7X6j7vhd0R077ZBg92NbGyn8cs02evVzEbeEvywWklMmX5lOS37J80F0yVsijesWg6fEER4SPTLbE/s1600/2014_+8_26_22_10.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hall Green Stop Lock - onto The Macc.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We were joined by nb AreandAre, a boat whose blog we follow. We soon got chatting to Barry who runs his <a href="http://www.thehomebrewboat.co.uk/" target="_blank">Home Brewing</a> business from the boat and I wasn't going to resist trying a sample of 'Evil Dog' at 7.1%. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcpSOtA7ihoPFehTj3NqdF-dd-NoU9D2FRtfzL9QDujWEbt8LV3SDxWqNmEnDUeBo7tIZNEgXhEzm-y_ycJGnbO0f_hF0VnofP9-daP4P-BIfYahdm5-XrsaYGFrHKYw6kxAtoJHkaD7Nn/s1600/2014_+8_26_22_12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcpSOtA7ihoPFehTj3NqdF-dd-NoU9D2FRtfzL9QDujWEbt8LV3SDxWqNmEnDUeBo7tIZNEgXhEzm-y_ycJGnbO0f_hF0VnofP9-daP4P-BIfYahdm5-XrsaYGFrHKYw6kxAtoJHkaD7Nn/s1600/2014_+8_26_22_12.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">'Cheers'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We enjoyed a chat whilst our tank filled and we shall be in touch on our return home as Louise likes the sound of trying to brew some wine which only takes five days to make, so she won't have to wait long !! We wished Barry well and headed off, soon passing Ramsdell Hall dating back to around 1760 and built by the Lowndes family before we moored up for the night near to bridge 81 in a lovely spot. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjBgiRts2x-XdjgLg0UG7hbgteXdP20lBExfD3a4UoF2gGAdF0qEaSpahV8_rCnNDqzDELIhQYBlso70xEDWvibWcv_hi7gB9wNzYmwKS-pIfjAQgw5EX7EHuyN0EmtU6OKoZDQW18iNGr/s1600/2014_+8_26_22_14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjBgiRts2x-XdjgLg0UG7hbgteXdP20lBExfD3a4UoF2gGAdF0qEaSpahV8_rCnNDqzDELIhQYBlso70xEDWvibWcv_hi7gB9wNzYmwKS-pIfjAQgw5EX7EHuyN0EmtU6OKoZDQW18iNGr/s1600/2014_+8_26_22_14.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ramsdell Hall</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
John and Louisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306401098175678313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647655644192071903.post-27031912313335037542014-08-26T09:41:00.001+01:002014-08-26T18:47:20.669+01:00Potteries & Peaks.<div style="text-align: justify;">
We are off on our last trip of the year, full of excitement aboard 'Fiona'. We are intending to take it easy with a trip through the Potteries and up into the Peak District via the Macclesfield and Peak Forest to Bugsworth Basin.</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We left Kings Bromley on Saturday morning with the intention of heading for Shugborough to meet Lisa & David and their daughter Kirsty aboard nb What a Lark. Plenty of boats about for the Bank Holiday weekend. Plum Pudding was negotiated carefully (don't want to scratch the new boat !!) and then a couple of sharp showers were endured as we headed through Rugeley.</div>
</div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaUupexm9IcDTBeQbH3VcJXGgM8ST0xsp9s4fdBeoJuaApYwdXZ33OQLFFL-_wrH1RFWwMoh0B-Rp9lhXExL18YRkXsfa86vKk3h01urgbXU7Ardeq25b7yKrqOL8JkjSm4ONe69gu1qaZ/s640/blogger-image--1785278842.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaUupexm9IcDTBeQbH3VcJXGgM8ST0xsp9s4fdBeoJuaApYwdXZ33OQLFFL-_wrH1RFWwMoh0B-Rp9lhXExL18YRkXsfa86vKk3h01urgbXU7Ardeq25b7yKrqOL8JkjSm4ONe69gu1qaZ/s640/blogger-image--1785278842.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plum Pudding</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Colwich Lock is always a bottleneck on this stretch, but as we arrived we were a little disappointed to be sixth in the queue, so a bit of a wait, but at least the sun was showing itself again and it was to be our only lock of the day.</div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
There was a nice gap behind What a Lark and before we welcomed Lisa & David aboard, Jasper enjoyed a run and swim in the river. Drinks and a guided tour of 'Fiona' completed, we all retired to the Clifford Arms for a very good and very reasonably priced meal and discussed plans for next Springs great adventure !!</div>
</div>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM8ech9G3VU5MDKNT_NA4z7PBrYQk9eW4ut36eQY9ppD_nb2-gjUy8QYim5u_NvBGWYB-KnXzfryG0qRkBqM2zVX2s5O76pFkjnZR5gM7L0EDT8tlx650QqIJKidib5sqELiQweedQTKrt/s640/blogger-image--2090072651.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM8ech9G3VU5MDKNT_NA4z7PBrYQk9eW4ut36eQY9ppD_nb2-gjUy8QYim5u_NvBGWYB-KnXzfryG0qRkBqM2zVX2s5O76pFkjnZR5gM7L0EDT8tlx650QqIJKidib5sqELiQweedQTKrt/s640/blogger-image--2090072651.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lisa, David and Louise<span style="text-align: justify;"> </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Sunday was lovely day weather wise. The first hour was spent searching What a Lark for a central heating header tank as David wanted to check the anti freeze content of the system and I had the gadget to do it. As the great Toyah Wilcox once sang 'It's a mystery' and despite searching high and low, the mystery was eventually solved with a text and phone call.......it hasn't got one (which I still find a mystery). But anyway we got away about 9.30am after saying our goodbyes and headed through the pleasant farmland towards Stone. </div>
</div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg46K7O8RjRl9rozFPMLmSWhkqMJS5Whvv7MszMLY1ACyn0bgDzU7oJEzqj6XhHKrGwOFsPTX6swPPPUobKJeOzX8_zuNo0PNGbjCvf3CngfstiRrDTDnIjdEkB-Ek9SJedwm3QBuZPfhkA/s640/blogger-image-1691508512.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg46K7O8RjRl9rozFPMLmSWhkqMJS5Whvv7MszMLY1ACyn0bgDzU7oJEzqj6XhHKrGwOFsPTX6swPPPUobKJeOzX8_zuNo0PNGbjCvf3CngfstiRrDTDnIjdEkB-Ek9SJedwm3QBuZPfhkA/s640/blogger-image-1691508512.jpg" /></a></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Sandon Lock has a serious leak on the bottom gates and it took a while to fill as a result. CaRT are aware but are hoping that it will last until winter works...can't see it myself. Aston Lock marks the mid-point of the Trent & Mersey Canal.</div>
</div>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYoIG5E5xn0iTrkAMGB-wjvR_KNAtM93stlsWJtgzg0JXupOW6Et5Yb3NCYBrEhuJKfrkTXxWtE0ONPsCk0e4IflFhANjsK8h5iH0eX5BTJaAZMId7zl4oT_EV7ztR6xtAAl1GHEu6RdiX/s640/blogger-image-995521081.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYoIG5E5xn0iTrkAMGB-wjvR_KNAtM93stlsWJtgzg0JXupOW6Et5Yb3NCYBrEhuJKfrkTXxWtE0ONPsCk0e4IflFhANjsK8h5iH0eX5BTJaAZMId7zl4oT_EV7ztR6xtAAl1GHEu6RdiX/s640/blogger-image-995521081.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mid point milepost</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3pGufcf9xq_wvE6wVCY3vTrfZ10srxpSyFz7zm_9eMwlBN6kxyKnqr5RqsvFuGEpsax662oPmMk8M631cBgplRGjAVVRu9_5mvHxfUdDbjtfy5IB5e1nR8MAbkWH09paFfCnKHVgCtSsx/s640/blogger-image--1269786778.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3pGufcf9xq_wvE6wVCY3vTrfZ10srxpSyFz7zm_9eMwlBN6kxyKnqr5RqsvFuGEpsax662oPmMk8M631cBgplRGjAVVRu9_5mvHxfUdDbjtfy5IB5e1nR8MAbkWH09paFfCnKHVgCtSsx/s640/blogger-image--1269786778.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aston Lock</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The volunteer lockies were out in Stone and very appreciative we were of their help. Louise steered through the lovely Meaford Locks (and Jasper kept an eye on things) and then onto Barlaston, passing the fabulous boatyard which can't fail but to appeal. </div>
</div>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO2XPm6lhv7Amjdpc8pou0wV3oUAYhzoeRnezlDYr1DyYP04UneAD_c9iekEX8ro90ab8dybDd4x0kRYjAewtWdCpMgEUMFLK-mZhs8zK4_TRUMxI4g2ThVR6VoBK5-ATrB5ffXwF0C8Qj/s640/blogger-image--222205583.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO2XPm6lhv7Amjdpc8pou0wV3oUAYhzoeRnezlDYr1DyYP04UneAD_c9iekEX8ro90ab8dybDd4x0kRYjAewtWdCpMgEUMFLK-mZhs8zK4_TRUMxI4g2ThVR6VoBK5-ATrB5ffXwF0C8Qj/s640/blogger-image--222205583.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Meaford Locks</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0gS98bxZqjO7YuzU82-ACSYYDsFfZexdQIgR_VUS1tZx9i-xfQXQw8DxsNxYB6fsRUWG_fQI8kiXLL409hvHntHthFppUqrwarmZ-Y7sK4XUG3DUhNzzpMDCEjDelCplqcjZ2JI_PASdy/s640/blogger-image-1217905282.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0gS98bxZqjO7YuzU82-ACSYYDsFfZexdQIgR_VUS1tZx9i-xfQXQw8DxsNxYB6fsRUWG_fQI8kiXLL409hvHntHthFppUqrwarmZ-Y7sK4XUG3DUhNzzpMDCEjDelCplqcjZ2JI_PASdy/s640/blogger-image-1217905282.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Barlaston Boatyard</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Today has been a miserable day with rain all day. We decided to stay put rather than cruise in the miserable conditions. So it's been a day of Sudoku, letter writing to relatives, dvd's and odd jobs. We did have a good walk this afternoon thanks to a book we have on board written by the author and walker John Merrill, which took us around the old village of Barlaston and what a lovely walk it was. Through the Wedgewood estate, and then up into the village via a tree lined road with its old and unusual street lighting. </div>
</div>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioXRKBOhwUpcLrKJkSaQuKTZC1uCFGE_afqUdn0gKb3pzQfV8BhVVY3nxPmQo0DtmgHfoxemahgEP9Iu2hYHWvIB7H1w9p6ZQVJKdhjIxFofynrwtyJCkBKdgWTCzDryCJDzkYysE2aUp2/s640/blogger-image-1881425464.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioXRKBOhwUpcLrKJkSaQuKTZC1uCFGE_afqUdn0gKb3pzQfV8BhVVY3nxPmQo0DtmgHfoxemahgEP9Iu2hYHWvIB7H1w9p6ZQVJKdhjIxFofynrwtyJCkBKdgWTCzDryCJDzkYysE2aUp2/s640/blogger-image-1881425464.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP-_-cY58pMoN9DanN_X0QUq1WaHxf6_K2WtL_ZWg9WaWst0ErnGl6zA_p8qwI_tZ5ht6brCyLAWm5HerT2wRiWU_7dQeAHayiGPUs49g_S_dIW4K6gLHh4NjGqNnGpgZ-pARi_VRAQwtn/s640/blogger-image-324681995.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP-_-cY58pMoN9DanN_X0QUq1WaHxf6_K2WtL_ZWg9WaWst0ErnGl6zA_p8qwI_tZ5ht6brCyLAWm5HerT2wRiWU_7dQeAHayiGPUs49g_S_dIW4K6gLHh4NjGqNnGpgZ-pARi_VRAQwtn/s640/blogger-image-324681995.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Unusual street lights</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Sadly, the lovely old church looks unused nowadays. </div>
</div>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhorhJ806EYGxr8qVPrsPKgVgAclAeFX6zaDrNdjwTexiiZZ-Gq3F9x_m8InGCeNqn9mcoHNHqPvlt8iM0-3uCSPcyXTFJpOzKpUYY7jxrJ_2v7WTVtAm-CUsPxS44qsuS6v_fOgTN_-Mum/s640/blogger-image--828895663.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhorhJ806EYGxr8qVPrsPKgVgAclAeFX6zaDrNdjwTexiiZZ-Gq3F9x_m8InGCeNqn9mcoHNHqPvlt8iM0-3uCSPcyXTFJpOzKpUYY7jxrJ_2v7WTVtAm-CUsPxS44qsuS6v_fOgTN_-Mum/s640/blogger-image--828895663.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lovely church</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The spectacular Barlaston Hall was built in 1756 by Robert Taylor for Thomas Mills, an attorney from Leek, and is Grade One listed.</div>
</div>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKsdcIBwKNUV0RGcZKM0VkfdYYgtIt1VLnn-9AAKbu9O1xuF5yOA70y6g7RT_-AoQWnTtMWldBTZaTmVnZZVTDsasWVp6AOmG7D-vwjBPk4sNfmV3qwQ7kXhP48i4Ql-a9-veMBXu1NA7e/s640/blogger-image-1346735906.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKsdcIBwKNUV0RGcZKM0VkfdYYgtIt1VLnn-9AAKbu9O1xuF5yOA70y6g7RT_-AoQWnTtMWldBTZaTmVnZZVTDsasWVp6AOmG7D-vwjBPk4sNfmV3qwQ7kXhP48i4Ql-a9-veMBXu1NA7e/s640/blogger-image-1346735906.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Barlaston Hall</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">It was then on down to the village green. We spent some time reading the bye laws sign and were left wondering if there is actually anything you are allowed to do. We left thinking that there were eyes watching us from all angles in case we put a foot wrong !!</span></div>
</div>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj616kT2yHPCLqeAxNfjUG-ZK_T1RtshZxLorRJN5gRpE-DfgGMagXNvljPfaeS0qu2e1g0Uw3DX4PUun24zox7j2P-1hWT2Fy5jLl2CjBhQ9o7mDPTWGtsM5iEh6w-idsaKm-8fj-_YNQ/s640/blogger-image--2017978364.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj616kT2yHPCLqeAxNfjUG-ZK_T1RtshZxLorRJN5gRpE-DfgGMagXNvljPfaeS0qu2e1g0Uw3DX4PUun24zox7j2P-1hWT2Fy5jLl2CjBhQ9o7mDPTWGtsM5iEh6w-idsaKm-8fj-_YNQ/s640/blogger-image--2017978364.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Is there anything you can do ??</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The forecast for Tuesday is much better, so we will head up through Harecastle and onto the Macclesfield towards the Peaks. </div>
</div>
John and Louisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306401098175678313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647655644192071903.post-31374937704698611762014-08-17T21:40:00.002+01:002014-08-17T22:17:42.141+01:00First impressions of Fiona<div style="text-align: justify;">
We have spent the weekend making a leisurely trip back to Kings Bromley in our new boat. It was sad to leave Blue Moon behind yesterday morning as we pulled away from the jetty at Mercia Marina. She is now on <a href="http://www.newandusedboat.co.uk/used-boat.php?boatID=483" target="_blank">brokerage here</a> and will make someone a lovely boat, (although they are asking far too much !!) The sadness was soon replaced by a real sense of excitement though as we start to get to know 'Fiona' as we will call her, until we officially rename. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We had a short cruise with just a couple of locks before we moored at Branston near to the water park. We welcomed our first guests aboard in the evening as friends Steve and Mave popped in for drinks. They live in Branston and came bearing alcohol and so were very welcome indeed.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We left this morning about 8am in bright sunshine, passing a long line of moored boats. The engine on 'Fiona' is sooo quiet and at tick over it's difficult to hear at all, much to the surprise of the four anglers in their tents at the side of the canal. They certainly hadn't heard us coming and only some last second panic and speedy reeling in of lines prevented us from dragging some very expensive carp tackle into the cut.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Our first lock of the day was Tatenhill Lock, which always looks lovely as you approach from this direction. We used it to take our first picture of 'Fiona"<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHfiOj30olfHJi4HRT4d8Ybkj-OKG7JzDxgMBU0VPmpzlrHqjEd9pTrfGoPYML6ldFYGdHRVMWRSuJzrP1el3bfTdL-wnfZ5VHqCIVMv3zWPvly8zVmryFaZmQ-ocq4QZFWdpFXOcSsdBY/s1600/P1000555.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHfiOj30olfHJi4HRT4d8Ybkj-OKG7JzDxgMBU0VPmpzlrHqjEd9pTrfGoPYML6ldFYGdHRVMWRSuJzrP1el3bfTdL-wnfZ5VHqCIVMv3zWPvly8zVmryFaZmQ-ocq4QZFWdpFXOcSsdBY/s1600/P1000555.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tatenhill Lock</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Onwards to Fradley in quite a strong wind. Nev from <a href="http://nbpercy.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">nb Percy</a> was busy laying some decking at his mooring but spotted us as we passed. We moored on the visitor moorings at Fradley and he popped up to see us for a drink and guided tour. Great to finally meet up after so many near misses.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdWW2vEqgc2PQEim7wzljQdB2sCukAD_Rz_ADn67Zs09deUbgA-AayEW9nM8GSuJJcN5W5lejr8AC7LPjZIOg2TlI7UDFSHlbvuvd-PKa36T1KqwmeDha8E6NTIdSC2qmtX5mjZ941iiRl/s1600/P1000557.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdWW2vEqgc2PQEim7wzljQdB2sCukAD_Rz_ADn67Zs09deUbgA-AayEW9nM8GSuJJcN5W5lejr8AC7LPjZIOg2TlI7UDFSHlbvuvd-PKa36T1KqwmeDha8E6NTIdSC2qmtX5mjZ941iiRl/s1600/P1000557.JPG" height="217" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Fradley was busy with gongoozlers, motorbikes and the like, but these two 'Rollers' were absolutely fantastic to see. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0nApXTKiyJk-gx088uH0RvhOnQf9JK94olm4N2EIOTG2sfWwvIP1UXNweErPgRMETswCLnXowf5w9ypMNlgUuiJMIs4UhqbOLkfaB3S5AG4KLpHKzwAGw6PkYkWLauBUEv98U5zh6mMrk/s1600/P1000558.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0nApXTKiyJk-gx088uH0RvhOnQf9JK94olm4N2EIOTG2sfWwvIP1UXNweErPgRMETswCLnXowf5w9ypMNlgUuiJMIs4UhqbOLkfaB3S5AG4KLpHKzwAGw6PkYkWLauBUEv98U5zh6mMrk/s1600/P1000558.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6sVVob_zt_lm9psVOt-kmghDEuQvRadPet_ZgVqyUuAx5u9rzOz30u7G-QTnNANil6UM6WpXnvasNEPBX7mdhZXiZ1TioL76zwNMQC4RR1YAKv3fd0FvkBLkmjPBcrmMdR2CVczjPNLk7/s1600/P1000559.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6sVVob_zt_lm9psVOt-kmghDEuQvRadPet_ZgVqyUuAx5u9rzOz30u7G-QTnNANil6UM6WpXnvasNEPBX7mdhZXiZ1TioL76zwNMQC4RR1YAKv3fd0FvkBLkmjPBcrmMdR2CVczjPNLk7/s1600/P1000559.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Louise got some help doing the locks as is usual on a busy day at Fradley. She was particularly grateful at Shadehouse Lock where the bottom gates are so very heavy. The American 'tourist' was more than willing to help and surprised just how heavy the gate was to close. But how he let himself down as Louise started to open the top paddle as he called down to me "Do you ever risk letting your wife do the driving?"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
I politely told him that Louise was in fact quite good at the helm, but preferred the locking which seemed to come as quite a surprise to him !! If looks could kill, Louise would have had a victim.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
So 'Fiona' is now safely tucked up at Kings Bromley. Early impressions are very good and we can't wait to head off out next weekend for the Macclesfield and Peak Forest. Well Chuffed.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
John and Louisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306401098175678313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647655644192071903.post-7931657831954180142014-08-10T21:41:00.002+01:002014-08-10T21:44:33.104+01:00The rather sudden end of an era.<div style="text-align: justify;">
Well we certainly never envisaged that our last trip on Blue Moon would infact be our final one, but you never quite know what's hiding around the corner.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="page" title="Page 1">
<div class="section" style="text-align: justify;">
The last three and a half years have been wonderful. Our first 'owned' boat that has really done us proud and as we have eluded to in previous posts, we planned to have her repainted next year and we were also going to replace the windows and therefore spend quite a bit of money on her to coincide with my retirement. </div>
<div class="section" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="section" style="text-align: justify;">
However, out of the blue last weekend, we went and looked at another boat which was for sale close to home and to cut a long story short, the chance was too good to miss. We proposed a deal, a little tongue in cheek to the brokers, which surprisingly interested both them and the vendors and the deal is now done.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="section" style="text-align: justify;">
So this weekend has been hectic to say the least. Blue Moon moved from Kings Bromley to Mercia Marina yesterday and today we have spent the entire day transferring everything across to our new boat. We just didn't foresee how long that would take and how much 'stuff' we have accumulated over the last three and a half years. We haven't even had time for any photos !!<br />
<br />
Blue Moon will soon be on brokerage and will make someone a cracking boat. Our new boat is also an Aqualine, but this time a reverse layout with a semi-trad stern and less than two years old. We know she will give us many happy hours of cruising.</div>
<div class="section" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="section" style="text-align: justify;">
So next weekend we will make the return journey at a much more leisurely pace and take 'Fiona A' back to Kings Bromley and look forward to setting off for the Macclesfield and Peak Forest the weekend after. It was obviously meant to be.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6mZndPugBVi7uwVVIgxA-Ol-Q07rV5frzXAC1jxDb4WGjxDTBqF3Gak6B0qVfb3UwdaZJ5YSqs_VVZakc7uspATF3d6gpn2cx6hMyfHrwBjjeNabdXDFBiywdLv_L0fRkzQLvjEXjt6nM/s1600/Fiona+A.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6mZndPugBVi7uwVVIgxA-Ol-Q07rV5frzXAC1jxDb4WGjxDTBqF3Gak6B0qVfb3UwdaZJ5YSqs_VVZakc7uspATF3d6gpn2cx6hMyfHrwBjjeNabdXDFBiywdLv_L0fRkzQLvjEXjt6nM/s1600/Fiona+A.jpg" height="102" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fiona A......to be re-named</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div class="section" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="section" style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="page" title="Page 1">
<div class="section">
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
John and Louisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306401098175678313noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647655644192071903.post-21022366197631509542014-07-20T10:55:00.001+01:002014-07-20T23:08:51.082+01:00Ending our trip with a double celebration<div style="text-align: justify;">
We made it back home to the marina last weekend after a couple of pleasant days cruising in some lovely weather. We have been blessed with a couple of glorious weeks and thoroughly enjoyed our trip, meeting up with great friends along the way. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Friday saw us cruise between Grendon and Tamhorn. We soon passed Grendon Wharf and then fields full of poppies which looked fabulous. </div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiovyGm4Iz8sMxCgPZZ527BeNy7wHfbcZZ5pBrAub3Rf2nFDuiJfJD7BcELQ0T6n77U9fUonMOs96M6LxtbgqjyTTsIbp-ebMfHPuWOZnKq33nGlvHa5dmKZtCnJCSfh3D_WDPJAbpVz5-k/s1600/P1000462.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiovyGm4Iz8sMxCgPZZ527BeNy7wHfbcZZ5pBrAub3Rf2nFDuiJfJD7BcELQ0T6n77U9fUonMOs96M6LxtbgqjyTTsIbp-ebMfHPuWOZnKq33nGlvHa5dmKZtCnJCSfh3D_WDPJAbpVz5-k/s1600/P1000462.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grendon Wharf</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM2wgVlnX9VSFmrdZDjq3OvAKZ0Y8CAW5y_ptdlHZR0pafY9AHrATPcY7QGoD-TbcvOSS6vWJ0-SUcIsetltmR73MpK2w80tRCppX8Euksi-PGX7rkmoKxx8-b8uOjT3Md5Dh9ik_ryTcG/s1600/P1000466.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM2wgVlnX9VSFmrdZDjq3OvAKZ0Y8CAW5y_ptdlHZR0pafY9AHrATPcY7QGoD-TbcvOSS6vWJ0-SUcIsetltmR73MpK2w80tRCppX8Euksi-PGX7rkmoKxx8-b8uOjT3Md5Dh9ik_ryTcG/s1600/P1000466.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Poppy fields</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
By mid afternoon the sun had got the best of us as we tied up to get some shelter. A nice spot with some trees for shade as we sat out on the towpath with a bottle of wine and just the occasional boat passing us. One final piscatorial session brought this lovely chub to the net.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoebjERxCe5KLlDmOt8gGZWv6LW9jOxIdleTG-SykUEol2kKNhrRkytuZVcfajykp9QeHOChuFymQ99byFhSKjxuReXoQmYBLbBnUD30WjnPvEhvjAEWxy1iGwA0gzRws2NRp0qVLz4JEo/s1600/IMG_0319.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoebjERxCe5KLlDmOt8gGZWv6LW9jOxIdleTG-SykUEol2kKNhrRkytuZVcfajykp9QeHOChuFymQ99byFhSKjxuReXoQmYBLbBnUD30WjnPvEhvjAEWxy1iGwA0gzRws2NRp0qVLz4JEo/s1600/IMG_0319.JPG" height="320" width="220" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Saturday was a short trip back to Kings Bromley and the end of this particular trip. Normally we would be on a bit of a downer as we turn into the marina, but on this occasion it was just tinged with sadness as we had a couple of significant events to look forward to and celebrate.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
On Monday we travelled down to Cardiff and booked into a very nice hotel overlooking the castle. We have got to know Cardiff quite well over the last three years as our eldest son has been at university there. It just so happened that his graduation fell the day after our Silver Wedding anniversary, and so we celebrated both events with the city break and had an absolutely wonderful time.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAIYnCQ0exDdhzkLOlKElqie_uSUpnJz10fvEm_YleouEvm-BI5JvuydkwyOKzE4SSkrfIx2TfAa6Kj45uKq_eT82hyoRxCHRv2RO_8RSv2uWr_Fiusmo2nAd-vlE0FuhPnXMl0E4us0uT/s1600/IMG_0267.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAIYnCQ0exDdhzkLOlKElqie_uSUpnJz10fvEm_YleouEvm-BI5JvuydkwyOKzE4SSkrfIx2TfAa6Kj45uKq_eT82hyoRxCHRv2RO_8RSv2uWr_Fiusmo2nAd-vlE0FuhPnXMl0E4us0uT/s1600/IMG_0267.jpg" height="320" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The 'still' happy couple</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Tuesday was our anniversary and we spent it relaxing and wandering around the city. You can't keep us off the water and the best mode of transport was the water bus along the River Taff from the city down to Cardiff Bay, a 25 minute trip for just £3 seemed excellent value. Cardiff Bay was vibrant and the regeneration is just fantastic. On our return we met both our sons who had travelled down by train and we all enjoyed a family meal together in the evening.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP_gPQ7R71d6fEShHud4DG30eofZoem2ILmeLhjcFAwEf6MFFp0PnVHNLygX5w4PmS5N7roX9u8HLAIS4pTDHyo4f6cjprmIpCC5iSFrbKJGL4CHLy7HSrPpA3meqW3DNnhx2zx7kwYDR7/s1600/P1000484.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP_gPQ7R71d6fEShHud4DG30eofZoem2ILmeLhjcFAwEf6MFFp0PnVHNLygX5w4PmS5N7roX9u8HLAIS4pTDHyo4f6cjprmIpCC5iSFrbKJGL4CHLy7HSrPpA3meqW3DNnhx2zx7kwYDR7/s1600/P1000484.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Passing The Millennium Stadium on the Water Bus</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUZoZ__aYV1e8wN-iEdeas8oEexkWVM2qzg_ysMjPr3hlDJu_rIO12Tc0vON8VkYpi8qHifLoOazjfnAjXMl_uKGadWd2oM5Dj07glNRd4Z0jkGnbJJa21Z2grdRlif-kLHWP6F6GSMSpE/s1600/P1000490.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUZoZ__aYV1e8wN-iEdeas8oEexkWVM2qzg_ysMjPr3hlDJu_rIO12Tc0vON8VkYpi8qHifLoOazjfnAjXMl_uKGadWd2oM5Dj07glNRd4Z0jkGnbJJa21Z2grdRlif-kLHWP6F6GSMSpE/s1600/P1000490.JPG" height="86" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Panoramic view of Cardiff Bay</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Wednesday was 'proud parents day' or graduation. Cardiff University put on a great event at St Davids Hall which ran meticulously well and for us all to be together celebrating Liam's achievement was indeed one of our proudest days.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9UwvAqlVO4AobJKSW69ueSqfrLBf_WMMflyD7iu8IV_2e7lNIjy6Tkfy4URoE3RHQB2hTFV2BNeZKT2Cd4svX-c65lFlKljF6R5KTkmxh91k2uA_gO_KI7q9eWyCevmJfJKWZYaWOuRcF/s1600/IMG_0320.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9UwvAqlVO4AobJKSW69ueSqfrLBf_WMMflyD7iu8IV_2e7lNIjy6Tkfy4URoE3RHQB2hTFV2BNeZKT2Cd4svX-c65lFlKljF6R5KTkmxh91k2uA_gO_KI7q9eWyCevmJfJKWZYaWOuRcF/s1600/IMG_0320.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So, after all the goings on, it's back to reality and work. How depressing !! Still, on the bright side, we have now firmed up our plans for our re-paint next year, it's just five weeks until we head out again and 266 sleeps until retirement. It'll be here before we know it.</div>
John and Louisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306401098175678313noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647655644192071903.post-35983817046656839662014-07-11T15:58:00.001+01:002014-07-11T16:03:35.135+01:00Afternoon meeting at Mancetter. <div style="text-align: justify;">
We started the morning doing the last couple of miles down to Marston Junction before turning right onto the Coventry Canal again. Another beautiful morning greeted us, as did boat after boat after boat after....you get the idea, and quite often at a bridge as always seems to happen. One boat we met was Marbury, a boat we used to own a share in until we decided to go it alone three years ago. A lovely boat but absolutely no regrets in our decision.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gzKWHJeV_pU/U7-cG5i4cmI/AAAAAAAABcs/ZWBsLCD19kM/s1600/2014_+7_11_+9_+9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gzKWHJeV_pU/U7-cG5i4cmI/AAAAAAAABcs/ZWBsLCD19kM/s1600/2014_+7_11_+9_+9.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We had made arrangements over he last few days to meet up with our friends David & Sheena on nb Tombee Too around lunchtime today somewhere in the vicinity of Atherstone. They were heading towards us and we actually met out in the country near Mancetter, which couldn't have been more perfect. Having tied up, the bar was very quickly opened and we spent the next three hours sat on the towpath with deck chairs and table having a great catch up, swapping tales and putting the world to rights. The perfect afternoons 'boating' if ever there was one. Great to see you both and get 'blogging'. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I7KhGRFmd-8/U7-cpzSh8qI/AAAAAAAABc4/M0fXzUIrWBM/s1600/2014_+7_11_+9_11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I7KhGRFmd-8/U7-cpzSh8qI/AAAAAAAABc4/M0fXzUIrWBM/s1600/2014_+7_11_+9_11.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our afternoon social.......fantastic.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Sadly we had to leave them as we need to get back home by Saturday afternoon, so reluctantly we untied and headed for Atherstone Locks about 4pm, which meant a bit of a later finish, but well worth it. Halfway down the flight Louise nipped to the nearby shops to find something for tea as I carried on single handed for a couple of locks.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXb5ygc6qBfF1ditHaDWAco3w1TIUpSSpigjIgG3KFtXwOR5HrP9T1VziX5oRc8tJgzs-yF_ARPxxdrCr5eyVFFtes09CRpopKt-tACxzz5FjWqfLEa5zfQyHX09K-6L12waKwEVjQlmeY/s1600/2014_+7_11_+9_26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXb5ygc6qBfF1ditHaDWAco3w1TIUpSSpigjIgG3KFtXwOR5HrP9T1VziX5oRc8tJgzs-yF_ARPxxdrCr5eyVFFtes09CRpopKt-tACxzz5FjWqfLEa5zfQyHX09K-6L12waKwEVjQlmeY/s1600/2014_+7_11_+9_26.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Atherstone Locks</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I was actually very pleased to see her when she caught up again !! We spent the night down at Grendon and just as a footnote, Jasper would like me to post this picture for all his 'fans' around the system. He's quite proud of this one. What a handsome chap - well you know what they say about dogs and owners ;-)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YNNNRS3mCcA/U7_5u2i-jwI/AAAAAAAABfc/i620dPUdaiw/s1600/2014_+7_11_15_50.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YNNNRS3mCcA/U7_5u2i-jwI/AAAAAAAABfc/i620dPUdaiw/s1600/2014_+7_11_15_50.jpg" height="320" width="288" /></a></div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
John and Louisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306401098175678313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647655644192071903.post-27543244383633070702014-07-10T23:01:00.002+01:002014-07-10T23:05:35.436+01:00Lazy days on the Ashby. <div style="text-align: justify;">
Gosh where does the time go. I've been chastised tonight for not keeping up to date. Well the week so far has been fabulous. Good weather, good boating and good fun. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Monday we headed into Rugby so that we could visit Mr Tesco and stock up on provisions (and alcohol). Hillmorton Locks were quiet and the lockie helped us down all three locks. Nice chap but VERY LOUD. The moorings in Rugby were full both sides so we had a bit of a walk, but were soon back and away again. Lots of boats on the move and we finally picked a spot approaching Ansty for the night close to the railway line but we never heard a thing after lights out. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Tuesday we headed off towards Hawkesbury. I managed to re-stock on maggots from the fishing shop at bridge 4 - really handy and a well stocked shop if you're that way inclined and we negotiated the junction at Hawkesbury easily enough.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjoWNpaLb5-D4RuN8oyJiITB7vlbikWHsY6rAVDmfdahhcHy-vNLQkMDjR_LKaI9JHYC_djZguCiIhXEDEXSYtPBYJHJ5byfOy0ivboKzZWICRI009PdcvvXZrvAXOLVWjexw994YDuWQ6/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjoWNpaLb5-D4RuN8oyJiITB7vlbikWHsY6rAVDmfdahhcHy-vNLQkMDjR_LKaI9JHYC_djZguCiIhXEDEXSYtPBYJHJ5byfOy0ivboKzZWICRI009PdcvvXZrvAXOLVWjexw994YDuWQ6/s1600/image.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hawkesbury Junction - easy when there's no wind. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After watering up using the slowest tap known to man, we headed off to Marston Junction passing the old Navigation pub which is now a fantastic residence and the <strike>lovely</strike> lousy Charity Dock before turning onto the lovely Ashby Canal.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTTMgX7iwhtyDnJkvCJe4p4zKQdOKBh_DnLDP2sljPyjnfinhDvC7CnnLWLdFjKPvU5-PFQ09YFYezMyPozxviHUTjg658PCn_ysp0BJUzBD_OXSavH2Tjyxo1frd2sgetFhxR8fhe3HKa/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTTMgX7iwhtyDnJkvCJe4p4zKQdOKBh_DnLDP2sljPyjnfinhDvC7CnnLWLdFjKPvU5-PFQ09YFYezMyPozxviHUTjg658PCn_ysp0BJUzBD_OXSavH2Tjyxo1frd2sgetFhxR8fhe3HKa/s1600/image.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Very nice !!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwTN8wkkzMe99ajndSozv3sTTEapAw6NZjOWI2Kxe_y7WaFEXA4T2PD3XTwlzEuKD9T3spM-nu9ZMbxzUC-aULySx0uCA1Hn0m6yjqguso9mahMxmrhom7_vbRqoNdv2rCFqtg0tdw35v9/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwTN8wkkzMe99ajndSozv3sTTEapAw6NZjOWI2Kxe_y7WaFEXA4T2PD3XTwlzEuKD9T3spM-nu9ZMbxzUC-aULySx0uCA1Hn0m6yjqguso9mahMxmrhom7_vbRqoNdv2rCFqtg0tdw35v9/s1600/image.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Charity Dock !!<span style="text-align: justify;"> </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU6DM16bHH_me-EOBEK3Fi5fHM1r812beSs7kPlDN9KkOT3RmtmFBnK11x2Twv-9OA7ZjQKlqhHuvJ-IZ3i_y_3xusuDqEO604vYyd0tV9trvucwaDItcmx3kiAG4te2q6RmJxqLg9ix-t/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU6DM16bHH_me-EOBEK3Fi5fHM1r812beSs7kPlDN9KkOT3RmtmFBnK11x2Twv-9OA7ZjQKlqhHuvJ-IZ3i_y_3xusuDqEO604vYyd0tV9trvucwaDItcmx3kiAG4te2q6RmJxqLg9ix-t/s1600/image.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Well it's available if you can find it.......</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Nice to see that CART were repairing the flag stones around the junction which have been damaged over the years by boats making the difficult turn onto the Ashby. I wonder how long they will last. We really do love it up here. 22 lock free miles and almost entirely rural. We ended up at Stoke Golding for the night in a lovely spot and watched the most bizarre World Cup semi final between Brazil and Germany which of course the Germans won 7-1. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Wednesday we had arranged to meet Louise's Mum and cousin Paul at Sutton Wharf so that they could come out with us for the day. They duly arrived on time and off we set towards Market Bosworth. Paul has steered before and did a good job in quite a strong and sometimes challenging wind whilst Louise entertained her Mum inside. We seemed to keep meeting boats at bridge 'oles and we have never seen so many boats on this stretch of canal, both moving and moored. We winded at Market Bosworth and had a good look at the new marina being built there which is watered and well on the way to being completed. It did cross my mind though that seeing the canal this busy and the marina to house 150 boats just what impact this will have. I suppose we will just have to wait and see.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BeauKH1iDLA/U78Kzpz-MMI/AAAAAAAABcA/tdbDfzQdhcs/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BeauKH1iDLA/U78Kzpz-MMI/AAAAAAAABcA/tdbDfzQdhcs/s1600/image.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New marina entrance</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
On the return we stopped off at the Battlefield mooring for lunch before returning to Sutton Wharf which was busy with folks. We were treated to coffee and cake and ice creams before saying our goodbyes and then headed off south and eventually moored at Burton Hastings for the night and watched the other semi final between Netherlands and Argentina. What a dull affair in comparison. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X9YUYURBbUg/U78K4FCWsqI/AAAAAAAABcI/o4dj_RSMoEc/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X9YUYURBbUg/U78K4FCWsqI/AAAAAAAABcI/o4dj_RSMoEc/s1600/image.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sutton Cheney Wharf coffee shop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IjL3ELTw0EM/U78LK6mohII/AAAAAAAABcQ/GP6ALYg_xl0/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IjL3ELTw0EM/U78LK6mohII/AAAAAAAABcQ/GP6ALYg_xl0/s1600/image.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cruising on the Ashby</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Our short trip onto the Ashby was all too brief this time around, but of course we will be back sooner rather than later. </div>
John and Louisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306401098175678313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647655644192071903.post-70304559222984721432014-07-06T23:11:00.000+01:002014-07-11T23:02:41.444+01:00Birds, Braunston and Bloggers. <div style="text-align: justify;">
We have been sort of planning to be in the Braunston area this weekend for a catch up with some fellow bloggers and a plan was coming together which meant that we needed to get down towards Norton Junction on Saturday. The trip from Welford Junction to Watford Locks is one of about five hours, but then the uncertainty of lock queues can scupper plans, so off we set mid morning along the summit level. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We could never get tired of cruising this particular stretch. So much wildlife to see if you keep your eyes open. Yelvertoft Marina always looks appealing and people we know that moor there rate it quite highly. Maybe a future 'home'......who knows. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3xPUStiw0G8/U7nD1qPNMpI/AAAAAAAABaQ/CxNcSmtWcWQ/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3xPUStiw0G8/U7nD1qPNMpI/AAAAAAAABaQ/CxNcSmtWcWQ/s1600/image.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There's a Reed Warbler in there somewhere</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcfmFS183AIeWHJwraeOuUOeLfkDGYRxiMLE_WN-pZdo9C2A8gSJcyV57aVLo91h8XjZj4RglA_t6qIgg1ORrk3bpSWQe4Mzw-TvKcdfiwO94QJSxFeEyn3oUjmKOkfcVWZr8IOhta_vxy/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcfmFS183AIeWHJwraeOuUOeLfkDGYRxiMLE_WN-pZdo9C2A8gSJcyV57aVLo91h8XjZj4RglA_t6qIgg1ORrk3bpSWQe4Mzw-TvKcdfiwO94QJSxFeEyn3oUjmKOkfcVWZr8IOhta_vxy/s1600/image.jpg" height="185" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No introduction needed here</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As we approached Watford Locks, there was one boat ahead of us. Would we be held up as we were at Foxton yesterday? As it happened the Lockie was already raising the paddles of the top lock as he saw us approaching and so both boats were straight in. Just time to empty a cassette and get rid of a bag of rubbish before Louise brought Blue Moon into the top lock and then through this pretty flight of locks before we knew it. A couple of boats at the bottom as we got towards the final lock and one lady who thought I'd stolen her water until it was pointed out that she needed to book in with the lock keeper as displayed on the numerous signs. What a shame she'll miss out on all the wildlife on offer !</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NxXDLSO9Lm8/U7nD0BQcQEI/AAAAAAAABaI/Gx7a9DZUuF8/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NxXDLSO9Lm8/U7nD0BQcQEI/AAAAAAAABaI/Gx7a9DZUuF8/s1600/image.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Watford Top Lock</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We turned right at Norton Junction and moored before the tunnel which we would tackle in the morning. There was lots of boat activity all evening and until quite late. As we shut up shop about 10pm, one boat came from the direction of Braunston, passed at tickover with a cheery wave and all lit correctly. Personally we have never cruised at night, but I can see the attraction. You would think that would be the last of the boats, but oh no. 12.45am and we are woken by another boat, not exactly at tickover either - now that takes the p!ss. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
After our broken nights sleep, we headed off just before 8am this morning only to be soon halted by a CART employee at the tunnel entrance as a wide beam boat was travelling towards us through the tunnel which was pre booked. Once clear we headed through and were soon at the top lock at Braunston where we teamed up with nb Soporific. There are some weird and wonderful names of boats and we quite often google them.....try it and see unless you're really clever and understand such words. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Braunston was full of boats, some left from last weekend at the historic boat show and it is a place we quite like to travel through than stop off at. We headed to Willoughby before taking the short walk into the village and <a href="http://www.therosecountrypub.co.uk/" target="_blank">The Rose Inn</a> where we met up with Lesley & Joe from <a href="http://nbyarwood.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">nb Yarwood</a> Lisa & David from <a href="http://nbwhatalark.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">nb What A Lark</a> and their 'boat sharers' Amanda & David - read the blog - it's a great read and you'll understand.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7pzmaieZZ-W9kKENeka38j3dsffelHtnkQEl1rVPy-Ekh24-N5ubwlISmQXpVevZ-MR6c87hYHE9f_nXDWoppYj8Cqw6DZjV4qL-L4mq58En3E0xHijqIxa_rduSoF43oiEbhHf1OwWnw/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7pzmaieZZ-W9kKENeka38j3dsffelHtnkQEl1rVPy-Ekh24-N5ubwlISmQXpVevZ-MR6c87hYHE9f_nXDWoppYj8Cqw6DZjV4qL-L4mq58En3E0xHijqIxa_rduSoF43oiEbhHf1OwWnw/s1600/image.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Is there a name for a group of bloggers ?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
What a great little pub. Friendly staff, excellent food and terrific company to top it all off. What a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon. Back to Blue Moon then as Amanda had brought freshly baked scones from home and after the process of whipping cream was expertly demonstrated by Lisa, Amanda and David, before we enjoyed afternoon tea.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RmemwNboLZY/U7nEC5OGVuI/AAAAAAAABbU/pcepHAQhDno/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RmemwNboLZY/U7nEC5OGVuI/AAAAAAAABbU/pcepHAQhDno/s1600/image.jpg" height="214" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The 'Whipping Team' Lisa, Amanda and David</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OLVz8hyUnkw/U7nD98Q6gEI/AAAAAAAABa4/8h0rOjiignU/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OLVz8hyUnkw/U7nD98Q6gEI/AAAAAAAABa4/8h0rOjiignU/s1600/image.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our very welcome guests</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
A final treat before we all went our separate ways as nb Nuneaton and butty Brighton owned by the <a href="http://www.narrowboattrust.org.uk/" target="_blank">Narrow Boat Trust</a> passed us heading for London with a cargo of coal. What a fantastic sight to see these large 'Northwich' and 'Woolwich' boats doing what they do best.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SPJPtExMrkQ/U7nD7cLQJpI/AAAAAAAABao/81oBA8V7HL4/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SPJPtExMrkQ/U7nD7cLQJpI/AAAAAAAABao/81oBA8V7HL4/s1600/image.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MUASKRiGDOA/U7nD9dCPKgI/AAAAAAAABa0/V-n_ybxRflI/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MUASKRiGDOA/U7nD9dCPKgI/AAAAAAAABa0/V-n_ybxRflI/s1600/image.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IVYv5YvV5Po/U7nD_5uq-ZI/AAAAAAAABbA/nOKuFLBpafs/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IVYv5YvV5Po/U7nD_5uq-ZI/AAAAAAAABbA/nOKuFLBpafs/s1600/image.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UUtctfKXPZc/U7nEDNNqQ4I/AAAAAAAABbY/puHfuT5_Q_o/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UUtctfKXPZc/U7nEDNNqQ4I/AAAAAAAABbY/puHfuT5_Q_o/s1600/image.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YSzUBXoS4Cs/U7nEClvs7TI/AAAAAAAABbQ/DTzXcnZbHyo/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YSzUBXoS4Cs/U7nEClvs7TI/AAAAAAAABbQ/DTzXcnZbHyo/s1600/image.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br /></div>
John and Louisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306401098175678313noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647655644192071903.post-52451018589983071592014-07-05T10:29:00.001+01:002014-07-05T10:29:11.835+01:00Up Foxton........eventually......and on to the summit. <div style="text-align: justify;">
We left our mooring late on Thursday morning and after a brief stop at the service point, we started the climb up towards Kibworth Top Lock. The weather was again glorious and it was good to see the towpath had been mowed as so many seem to have been left to get out of hand. A couple of the pounds between locks were a bit low and there was again a distinct lack of traffic travelling towards us. At Taylor's Turnover Lock we caught up a couple of single handers and helped them through. For one of them it was his first single handed trip and they travelled together from Thorne. Chatting away at the next few locks, he had just given up work and now hadn't got a care in the world, although he was still up and about at 5.30am every morning. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgLMtx4liI8bem-fDnoxO91FNSJAJLtjaj1MWqkIqCcIOLIj9Ps3YY1D8ZsihyphenhyphenmeKGkWYk4C9-goYqpG1I7D2QKu8Z6KyEihmo3sVIout2ZzX-_ShvRE_O3s7FcvIm11SQ9V4LxuvwJa-V/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgLMtx4liI8bem-fDnoxO91FNSJAJLtjaj1MWqkIqCcIOLIj9Ps3YY1D8ZsihyphenhyphenmeKGkWYk4C9-goYqpG1I7D2QKu8Z6KyEihmo3sVIout2ZzX-_ShvRE_O3s7FcvIm11SQ9V4LxuvwJa-V/s1600/image.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Saddington Tunnel</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
They moored up just after Kibworth Top Lock and we carried on through Saddington Tunnel and found a really lovely mooring near to Debdale Marina - just room for one in a cut out in the reeds - marvellous. A good evening of maggot drowning produced this lovely Tench, probably my favourite fish to catch. I've spent many hours fishing for them on lakes in Ireland and to catch one in the canal was great. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-khjy1fluxCY/U7e_2GQlhFI/AAAAAAAABZo/PWVb8dFa81E/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-khjy1fluxCY/U7e_2GQlhFI/AAAAAAAABZo/PWVb8dFa81E/s1600/image.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mooring at Debdale</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7OpZ-647wXY/U7e_i-o0PaI/AAAAAAAABZY/zN9GENNSBSg/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7OpZ-647wXY/U7e_i-o0PaI/AAAAAAAABZY/zN9GENNSBSg/s1600/image.jpg" height="320" width="252" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption">Prize catch</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Over the last few days we've barely seen any boats. We had an early morning walk down to Foxton on Friday and it was all quiet. One boat passed us before we decided to set off for the flight so we were a little shocked to find that at 11.10am we were 8th in the queue to go up !! The basin at the bottom of the locks was chocka with boats and there were another four descending. There are worse places to get held up though, and we decided to observe the fun from the beer terrace of the Bridge 61 pub with a pint and a baguette. It seems that the other boats had all come out from Market Harborough and every boat that came down headed that way too.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e4UOjsTp4k4/U7e_7vLNkSI/AAAAAAAABZw/zKBDt860ziY/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e4UOjsTp4k4/U7e_7vLNkSI/AAAAAAAABZw/zKBDt860ziY/s1600/image.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lunch at Bridge 61</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8x-HmUOMoAQ/U7e__WkXfPI/AAAAAAAABZ4/JUSzg_dc55s/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8x-HmUOMoAQ/U7e__WkXfPI/AAAAAAAABZ4/JUSzg_dc55s/s1600/image.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jasper enjoying the scenery too</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We finally got in the flight at about 1.30pm and enjoyed the views as we climbed. This place never disappoints for us and you can only marvel at the engineering and vision of those responsible. We couldn't resist an ice cream at the top and then we headed off towards Husbands Bosworth and Welford, enjoying the views over towards Theddingworth. </div>
John and Louisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306401098175678313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647655644192071903.post-58021343143278858582014-07-03T10:45:00.001+01:002014-07-03T10:45:58.250+01:00Through Leicester...Bandits, Beer Cans or just myths?<div style="text-align: justify;">
The first decision for today was whether we tackle Leicester in one big hit, or have just a a couple of hours to Thurmaston and then do Leicester the following day. In the end we decided to go for it. I have to say that the rumours and myths about the potential for problems in Leicester are probably aired more than the good experiences, but you are always on your guard just in case. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The first few miles were very pleasant, Mountsorrel and Sileby Mill are lovely locations and the amount of wildlife around the overgrown bank vegetation was vast. We met a charity trip boat at Thurmaston Lock. "Are you going through Leicester today?" asks one of the crew. "Yes" was the reply. A wry smile was followed with the words "Don't stop". Safe to assume he's not working for the local tourist board, but his comment was based on what I wondered. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OALXLSaP1zc/U7UgrFTmmdI/AAAAAAAABYg/GdPVnXd5cko/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OALXLSaP1zc/U7UgrFTmmdI/AAAAAAAABYg/GdPVnXd5cko/s1600/image.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mountsorrel</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GzJCuYpthZE/U7UgzWSZGVI/AAAAAAAABYo/YsqR9ThY8Pk/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GzJCuYpthZE/U7UgzWSZGVI/AAAAAAAABYo/YsqR9ThY8Pk/s1600/image.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sileby Mill</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
When we came through Leicester last year, Belgrave Lock was simply a disgrace. Full of cans, plastic bottles and plastic, but today it was unrecognisable from that scene. There were two rafts of people picking up the rubbish and doing a great job of making the place look tidy....well done to them and Leicester should be thankful.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cB7Y-TItCbY/U7Ug-H9FaQI/AAAAAAAABY4/P1qRDQz6JfY/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cB7Y-TItCbY/U7Ug-H9FaQI/AAAAAAAABY4/P1qRDQz6JfY/s1600/image.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Space Centre near to Belgrave Lock</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O4jEBfawG98/U7Ug6xT7BWI/AAAAAAAABYw/N-almJQPNCo/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O4jEBfawG98/U7Ug6xT7BWI/AAAAAAAABYw/N-almJQPNCo/s1600/image.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The litter pickers doing a great job<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
On into the city and the old textile mill is being converted into apartments by the looks of things. New windows and clean brickwork really stand out.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q3P4xwFKpCs/U7UhDxKx1jI/AAAAAAAABZA/H26PN1lvgA0/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q3P4xwFKpCs/U7UhDxKx1jI/AAAAAAAABZA/H26PN1lvgA0/s1600/image.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Renovated Textile Mill</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The locks are quite heavy and some of the paddle gear missing, but we got into a good routine of working the double locks alone. Lots of folks speaking and offering help, which we took at every opportunity. We met a few boats coming the other way, and each commented on us being the first boat they had seen all day. So why is it that we had to turn nearly every lock as it was full when we arrived? Yes lock gates leak, but not that much. We still haven't got an answer, apart from the obvious one that there was in fact a boat ahead and nobody saw it. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We eventually ended our big day just short of Kilby Bridge in a lovely peaceful spot. A glass or two of wine and feet up was about all we were good for.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QdnjyH2PFBU/U7UhFSrUroI/AAAAAAAABZI/UGSUbV-lQD4/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QdnjyH2PFBU/U7UhFSrUroI/AAAAAAAABZI/UGSUbV-lQD4/s1600/image.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tonight's mooring.....lovely</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Our experience of Leicester today was another good one. Our only observation was the amount of folks who use the waterways area to go and drink. Leicester must be the centre of the universe for those that drink Carlsberg Special Brew, Stella Artois and Holsten Pils, and we know where they usually chuck their tins........</div>
John and Louisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306401098175678313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647655644192071903.post-62248773368506963832014-07-01T20:54:00.001+01:002014-07-13T11:50:10.143+01:00Bowled over to be back aboard.<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Well we're back in 'Blogland' and back on the water after what seems far too long. We've been busy over the last few weeks,but not boating, and the blog has fallen by the wayside a little, but until they invent more hours in the day, something will have to give.</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We've actually been out since last Saturday and have made our way from Kings Bromley and are now moored at Barrow on Soar where we were fortunate to drop onto the last available spot for the night.</div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Louise has been a bit of a 'bowls widow' so far this trip.....let me explain. The game of Crown Green Bowls is unique to this country, in fact to certain 'pockets' of this country, all situated above Watford Gap. For instance it is played in Derbyshire, but not in Nottinghamshire or Leicestershire. It is played in North Wales but not in South Wales, so one thing is for sure, we won't get beaten at this game by the likes of Italy and Uruguay and the World Champion WILL ALWAYS be British. Also, don't think old folks in silly white trousers and white shirts with cucumber sarnies.....think whippets, flat caps, and lots of banter around the green with a pint or two of a good northern bitter and you're getting the picture. Basically it's a good old northern game. </div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So Saturday was an early start as we had to get to Burton as I had a game for one of my clubs that afternoon a stones throw from Dallow Lane Lock. We made it in good time and moored at Shobnall Fields. That completed we carried on as far as Findern for the night and enjoyed a lovely meal at Nadee Indian Restaurant. </div>
</div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_uduWohpmy3MiK5y4fQVp5vZd2GE3FyjsuPASTJPWMo06WTq8DTwgqNXcrwnudx2KAwPDanWz9UWF8dWnHGeDqyDDJy1dzVEzG0fF_DhonoKVyJtg-ppq9h8IoeTkq32W4pyW4HtVbPbg/s640/blogger-image-1959725966.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_uduWohpmy3MiK5y4fQVp5vZd2GE3FyjsuPASTJPWMo06WTq8DTwgqNXcrwnudx2KAwPDanWz9UWF8dWnHGeDqyDDJy1dzVEzG0fF_DhonoKVyJtg-ppq9h8IoeTkq32W4pyW4HtVbPbg/s640/blogger-image-1959725966.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Early on Sunday, I was whisked away to a big competition I had qualified for in Derby. Good old Louise found time to wash the boat before I got back (her choice before I'm shot down) and then we welcomed friends aboard for drinks in the evening, funnily enough friends from ours bowls club. </div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5D3RiSK7HIvXGBVbR7TOdN6ePfiVyJymIUGk8BAEJ4-PnIvtP6ANAXnt67aGU6XjJb-33I6RpAdQjGjMzWHJbNi-jcL5HpBSrMfzsJU7x7g06gOGqsNUsafo2OMfLpTxwvbyiCY1d1BRm/s640/blogger-image-1430163473.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5D3RiSK7HIvXGBVbR7TOdN6ePfiVyJymIUGk8BAEJ4-PnIvtP6ANAXnt67aGU6XjJb-33I6RpAdQjGjMzWHJbNi-jcL5HpBSrMfzsJU7x7g06gOGqsNUsafo2OMfLpTxwvbyiCY1d1BRm/s640/blogger-image-1430163473.jpg" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</span></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Monday was a very pleasant trip down to Shardlow where we lucky to have lock buddies all the way for the deep wide locks. We were joined by Luke and Annabelle for tea at The Clock Warehouse...nice food but awfully slow service, which made us (Luke and I) almost late for Mondays bowls match in Derby for my other club !! All in all a logistical masterpiece. </span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I'm pleased (or Louise is) that the bowls are away for the next couple of weeks and we can settle down properly into our little trip around the Leicester Ring.</div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Today is Louise's birthday. 21 again plus VAT and a few hidden charges, but she enjoyed opening her cards and presents this morning and then walked down from Shardlow to Sawley (she's not a big river fan).</div>
</div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7_v83WuqD_Z1rTgkCa5YfDMVKKcMHHluHwrX6ftJ8ICV_yfA9q3vd7LsEcCYKi9xP6P8luyYa9YREDZP-Ds8OxPrwBq0Y3jw_Azpzygaz1cPmG-9SQ-T5HQomoeW5b5jjLS-36XPrSMSV/s640/blogger-image--553289789.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7_v83WuqD_Z1rTgkCa5YfDMVKKcMHHluHwrX6ftJ8ICV_yfA9q3vd7LsEcCYKi9xP6P8luyYa9YREDZP-Ds8OxPrwBq0Y3jw_Azpzygaz1cPmG-9SQ-T5HQomoeW5b5jjLS-36XPrSMSV/s640/blogger-image--553289789.jpg" /></a></div>
</div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
The lock cottage at Sawley Locks is to be opened as a Coffee Shop by the end of the year. The work they have been doing looks good.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtB6L2sJFUtegaRMUccnH0bYt91g78W_y1Fy7vT84rVwmM6ektzWzbfk3Bo5RSutoZRCfXCTeLqj7-eunXbqcAajp6aw7lODRKtOn_GSRzNbg8HtkiDJuiTTHPbVbQw6SV06Kc0smK-F5t/s640/blogger-image--1285194660.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtB6L2sJFUtegaRMUccnH0bYt91g78W_y1Fy7vT84rVwmM6ektzWzbfk3Bo5RSutoZRCfXCTeLqj7-eunXbqcAajp6aw7lODRKtOn_GSRzNbg8HtkiDJuiTTHPbVbQw6SV06Kc0smK-F5t/s640/blogger-image--1285194660.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This couple out for a picnic at Zouch looked at little nervous surrounded by cattle whilst sat in their deck chairs.</div>
</div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMn9_3Zx4JclfWtrDnm06YGqWPRkEOgdsIC670K1l9e1MYuhbbDXnwb5sEBwr5Hics_MJdEtNDDyLa_MRqW9C1dV6ZsgAR4i95ax-tfKwcB7KdYj1KBNbitmoB477NxZdW2H11OlFGPhpM/s640/blogger-image-1218405551.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMn9_3Zx4JclfWtrDnm06YGqWPRkEOgdsIC670K1l9e1MYuhbbDXnwb5sEBwr5Hics_MJdEtNDDyLa_MRqW9C1dV6ZsgAR4i95ax-tfKwcB7KdYj1KBNbitmoB477NxZdW2H11OlFGPhpM/s640/blogger-image-1218405551.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
This splendid looking Piper built Dutch Barge followed us up into Loughborough. A wide beam water yes, but it still looked a bit of a squeeze.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZhl16tUSayCSOpxQngmihv3z8kSTYgrze5XZGVDdc9k4fvXsdQkSBqGnWDZOOOt_jfChVab8Grpz16cGaeJ8_VHbUsp1ystL5GSIsWR9d4zimjV8UiZBY5gqPu_3l-2v_dPwnV7Ap8Y5f/s640/blogger-image--1067485425.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZhl16tUSayCSOpxQngmihv3z8kSTYgrze5XZGVDdc9k4fvXsdQkSBqGnWDZOOOt_jfChVab8Grpz16cGaeJ8_VHbUsp1ystL5GSIsWR9d4zimjV8UiZBY5gqPu_3l-2v_dPwnV7Ap8Y5f/s640/blogger-image--1067485425.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Homemade curry followed by Strawberries and Champagne aboard tonight. Well, it is Louise's Birthday after all......</div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
John and Louisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306401098175678313noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647655644192071903.post-39098647256569487022014-05-17T23:36:00.003+01:002014-05-18T08:07:56.522+01:00No canals....just rivers and oceans<div style="text-align: justify;">
Whilst the weather makes a weekend at the boat a very tempting proposition, we will leave you all to enjoy the canals and the wonderful weather and take a bit of time out to do other things.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Music, especially live, may not be our first love, but it comes a very close second, and last night we travelled to Shrewsbury for an 80's flashback with Billy Ocean. The venue was <a href="http://www.thebuttermarket.co.uk/" target="_blank">The Buttermarket</a>, a relatively small, but ideal venue, reopened in 2012 after a £2 million refurbishment. The punters were in early and the tickets were sold out. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A fantastic couple of hours rolling back the years followed. Big arenas are good, but somehow the intimacy of small venues is really appealing and the crowd were really into the show from the start. Banging out the hits, the crowd singing and dancing along and Billy and his band with huge smiles on their faces all night. The 80's was such a great era for music. Ive pinched a couple of pics from the website as they're better than mine.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjohfnFIwNGH3V1hBjYtbPbRDOk64FL_jECukFEKrwKbZutI0G2TW7QoLZqJS83VktBakH6hjQwBZXuybLncKTOmDexcjtfD6qiQy0bEiWb12ENK-lNsPVLs4Zij8zSxF8t3VGIVDZH81Hk/s1600/10014845_697763186948649_6504854888637438790_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjohfnFIwNGH3V1hBjYtbPbRDOk64FL_jECukFEKrwKbZutI0G2TW7QoLZqJS83VktBakH6hjQwBZXuybLncKTOmDexcjtfD6qiQy0bEiWb12ENK-lNsPVLs4Zij8zSxF8t3VGIVDZH81Hk/s1600/10014845_697763186948649_6504854888637438790_o.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The man himself </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwVvb6Qu3MppV5LaUVrN1nGGZo7biQzGKkYO1Wky9EoPcyMrAiqk39Z5k60Z8Jl-D9oD6yeemiADnoAGqshJOpLlLKQjavUtchyphenhyphenJOjaMrvHLJKwEsb7IGW3kI3tfl72E-o4ljzY4vyS735/s1600/10359127_697763820281919_789085854899187230_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwVvb6Qu3MppV5LaUVrN1nGGZo7biQzGKkYO1Wky9EoPcyMrAiqk39Z5k60Z8Jl-D9oD6yeemiADnoAGqshJOpLlLKQjavUtchyphenhyphenJOjaMrvHLJKwEsb7IGW3kI3tfl72E-o4ljzY4vyS735/s1600/10359127_697763820281919_789085854899187230_o.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We're in there somewhere...can you spot us ??</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Another beautiful day today, and before we headed for home, we took the option of a cruise on the River Severn aboard 'Sabrina'. A 45 minute cruise form Welsh Bridge, around the town to English Bridge and back, made all the more pleasant with a pint and a G&T...how very civilized !!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeaXZCJy2GJFQ9eKyLjdp6lqtguxKGzugwLjhlwen0CkrU3hizlxvBpNMAepQf4W5OPfMl1Win1FOj1LdUOzicOqqzlcemYbbBYwRVc28Lr_dfYqvBsyHPK5alI83YCfFFPI6CI9HWPrVe/s1600/P1000250.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeaXZCJy2GJFQ9eKyLjdp6lqtguxKGzugwLjhlwen0CkrU3hizlxvBpNMAepQf4W5OPfMl1Win1FOj1LdUOzicOqqzlcemYbbBYwRVc28Lr_dfYqvBsyHPK5alI83YCfFFPI6CI9HWPrVe/s1600/P1000250.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">'Sabrina' is the patron goddess of the River Severn</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
On the way back upstream, the Captain gave an extremely interesting commentary about the history of landmarks, bridges, churches etc. Famous Shrewsburians (is that a word) include Charles Darwin, and Percy Thrower whilst John Peel Michael Palin and Michael Heseltine were educated here.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzOu5ZGtoiNuqmWPUFtX0RRMupSQEkmDfh7wdQawYAloUF3wNeDA70RXH3v5GSGthchmnba05gcNJAbELIiCscpJxzuSFS12qN_3YFkuVgYvHHEE5grY-YtdTz6aGymEaF8g3RJcgZnIMq/s1600/P1000227.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzOu5ZGtoiNuqmWPUFtX0RRMupSQEkmDfh7wdQawYAloUF3wNeDA70RXH3v5GSGthchmnba05gcNJAbELIiCscpJxzuSFS12qN_3YFkuVgYvHHEE5grY-YtdTz6aGymEaF8g3RJcgZnIMq/s1600/P1000227.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At first we thought it was a Stegosaurus but it's called 'Quantum Leap' </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwlDK9HZpzJG-5h20SMnbwr3rH-rj5ypCr5gnS1mHs4iKka6I4KA080mFjWEc2Na6McGZpYLOn1SSFumouyrsP7Y-81NFLsA5LW9kA4t-NuUNzwkVBMhG9PdT-qUpp8I9CJzH2SoThgZdu/s1600/P1000233.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwlDK9HZpzJG-5h20SMnbwr3rH-rj5ypCr5gnS1mHs4iKka6I4KA080mFjWEc2Na6McGZpYLOn1SSFumouyrsP7Y-81NFLsA5LW9kA4t-NuUNzwkVBMhG9PdT-qUpp8I9CJzH2SoThgZdu/s1600/P1000233.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">St Chads church built 1792. Darwin christened here in 1809. The large house in the centre used to be home to Percy Thrower but now HQ to the Shrewsbury Flower Show. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO-SpuiE1EyvUHhiR41UDcGUFu3YWJLXF1tPk2nb-4yJznqprTJBVkoxEGu0GnklQeTDUUjLenUO_mqTb_Ecx0N0Bbd1kh2oB2mPOHja9yzIkchX6cb4WgWSWk9ljuR2PT-Z4fxkQFlErh/s1600/P1000240.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO-SpuiE1EyvUHhiR41UDcGUFu3YWJLXF1tPk2nb-4yJznqprTJBVkoxEGu0GnklQeTDUUjLenUO_mqTb_Ecx0N0Bbd1kh2oB2mPOHja9yzIkchX6cb4WgWSWk9ljuR2PT-Z4fxkQFlErh/s1600/P1000240.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">English Bridge. Originally built in 1774 and rebuilt in 1926 </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvXo1RXASmGcjYZ9YmhNBVrnq4w_d_zjtwtl86NR8fLchsxUUisiv_C1_UvJUZHnRANreUeQgcJ3JrT1adifqZ8P31P0NabRYK_sB9Cs7gA3b76goOhOmWfant4aJtP0gNBUy14cbfsWux/s1600/P1000241.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvXo1RXASmGcjYZ9YmhNBVrnq4w_d_zjtwtl86NR8fLchsxUUisiv_C1_UvJUZHnRANreUeQgcJ3JrT1adifqZ8P31P0NabRYK_sB9Cs7gA3b76goOhOmWfant4aJtP0gNBUy14cbfsWux/s1600/P1000241.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The 'tide mark' is the height of the river in recent floods</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGP_ucr6-HhQlZCJKLF6_znDF1dQXVxhkSEVBX3RkT88qAUri3m5oVTC6LB1UiFqmcSGTAKzKaldDfmQFiNO42nd1lTyBJphB6WQgIf5R84v2iIf-rT2UEUGWPVDJprejxc8KT5azjHk3W/s1600/P1000243.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGP_ucr6-HhQlZCJKLF6_znDF1dQXVxhkSEVBX3RkT88qAUri3m5oVTC6LB1UiFqmcSGTAKzKaldDfmQFiNO42nd1lTyBJphB6WQgIf5R84v2iIf-rT2UEUGWPVDJprejxc8KT5azjHk3W/s1600/P1000243.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Old Brewery...now luxury apartments</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxsr-LcQwB84hJKfLcmLs3y85bUins3LKJ_UzX0zPAoEeMcyLcmoiEUHltr8utBoQaxwsEKL1VxW8A8TaMwR7clskiDd5f1WTXA4tks0d-xiyun-tBxN1WNrevXDKNwMkJg2h_o0pPoiSN/s1600/P1000245.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxsr-LcQwB84hJKfLcmLs3y85bUins3LKJ_UzX0zPAoEeMcyLcmoiEUHltr8utBoQaxwsEKL1VxW8A8TaMwR7clskiDd5f1WTXA4tks0d-xiyun-tBxN1WNrevXDKNwMkJg2h_o0pPoiSN/s1600/P1000245.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shrewsbury Boys School and their Boathouse. £30,000 a year !! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm5NA3BgQ0I9BN9kXkNO6IRS6tErRjQJLOiEwU4n32oX0UvWCVSmy_Mp3n6fy9qSuZpPKgm-n97j53rbqO1BEpvt508qbBzKEm14D3UPVusGmDxtPWXwsOoduLlQG7KdtMWEkNsL6X1DT_/s1600/P1000247.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm5NA3BgQ0I9BN9kXkNO6IRS6tErRjQJLOiEwU4n32oX0UvWCVSmy_Mp3n6fy9qSuZpPKgm-n97j53rbqO1BEpvt508qbBzKEm14D3UPVusGmDxtPWXwsOoduLlQG7KdtMWEkNsL6X1DT_/s1600/P1000247.JPG" height="275" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Statue of Hercules.....cover your eyes children.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
What a shame that the River is not navigable as far north as Shrewsbury. We were quite taken with it all. Lets hope Mr Ocean decides to return for another gig in the future.<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
John and Louisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306401098175678313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647655644192071903.post-13533633407232916772014-04-25T17:18:00.001+01:002014-04-25T17:18:22.722+01:00Early start...early finish. <div style="text-align: justify;">
Quite an early start today. One, to beat the forecast rain and two, we moored in the middle of a rookery last night and they were having one hell of a shouting match this morning, although it beats waking to the noise of traffic by quite a distance. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The weatherman said rain before lunch. The map said 3.5 hours to Tixall Wide and the bread maker said 3 hours 15 mins to bake a loaf. That's a plan then and we were off about 8am after the compulsory cuppa. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
First lock of the day at Park Gate always looks pleasant. Louise struck up a conversation with a chap loitering with intent. Turns out he was 'killing an hour' before going to a six hour meeting and that he would gladly swap places with us. We politely declined, especially when he predicted his lunch would be a turned up sandwich and we had a freshly baked loaf on the go. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vhn2B4_N5Mw/U1p8IdjDw0I/AAAAAAAABS4/xy05e65EtQo/s1600/2014_+4_25_16_15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vhn2B4_N5Mw/U1p8IdjDw0I/AAAAAAAABS4/xy05e65EtQo/s1600/2014_+4_25_16_15.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Park Gate Lock</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This unusual post at the bottom of Shutt Hill Lock was once used to help turn boats into a small wharf at that location (thanks Nicholsons).</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BVleJ40VOAw/U1p8NN8H6nI/AAAAAAAABTA/sSgrfq0HjSA/s1600/2014_+4_25_16_15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BVleJ40VOAw/U1p8NN8H6nI/AAAAAAAABTA/sSgrfq0HjSA/s1600/2014_+4_25_16_15.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
As we passed The Moat House at Acton Trussell the loitering chap was just getting out of his posh Mercedes in the car park and called across as we both waved politely (but quite smugly). There was quite a chill in the air today and we took it in turns to walk with Jasper and set the locks. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YAIL9SZzjsM/U1p8g-3vk8I/AAAAAAAABTQ/Pt4ulWxRVoY/s1600/2014_+4_25_16_16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YAIL9SZzjsM/U1p8g-3vk8I/AAAAAAAABTQ/Pt4ulWxRVoY/s1600/2014_+4_25_16_16.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Deptmore Lock</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5hVRNnnBWM0kO2Y-o6kSDPCrXd_AyXiY4oM1bpQLU7yy7yCq8Fuzg2rjLMMDqdafFWqRsg1mO2JhzTWkt134LTnNFJLyKRzuNIKG1MXx1i3fNPUpFZ3fkmSQVuiASKKXhAxrU7130LjMq/s1600/2014_+4_25_16_27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5hVRNnnBWM0kO2Y-o6kSDPCrXd_AyXiY4oM1bpQLU7yy7yCq8Fuzg2rjLMMDqdafFWqRsg1mO2JhzTWkt134LTnNFJLyKRzuNIKG1MXx1i3fNPUpFZ3fkmSQVuiASKKXhAxrU7130LjMq/s1600/2014_+4_25_16_27.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rain must be on the way</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This 'craft' was a bit of a concern as it wasn't tied up to stop it from drifting further into the channel although it had a patrol notice attached !!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlu0KywUClhXjQecfrn94Xf7FXhiLW1ab2cVq8j-kI1GQo1yg9kxiwHwWWNbQNggPZPqxTvPcNFJp7U-DVK38dsUDYOaRHudPtadjxt43yhzU5CUuk1C2Guq-e9cEkeBz7A8efVAkKzRMV/s1600/2014_+4_25_16_23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlu0KywUClhXjQecfrn94Xf7FXhiLW1ab2cVq8j-kI1GQo1yg9kxiwHwWWNbQNggPZPqxTvPcNFJp7U-DVK38dsUDYOaRHudPtadjxt43yhzU5CUuk1C2Guq-e9cEkeBz7A8efVAkKzRMV/s1600/2014_+4_25_16_23.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I say 'craft' as I reckon it was more of a caravan/butty that we've seen before. Wonder if he realises he's lost it ??</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eC8j5kPiRh4/U1qI1Him2bI/AAAAAAAABUk/9xJcDuWFeJE/s1600/2014_+4_25_17_+9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eC8j5kPiRh4/U1qI1Him2bI/AAAAAAAABUk/9xJcDuWFeJE/s1600/2014_+4_25_17_+9.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
As we approached Tixall Lock the rain started but we managed to get moored up before the heavier stuff arrived. The freshly baked loaf was perfect to make a sausage and egg sarnie which helped us miss a lot of the afternoon rain with a snooze. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Hopefully we'll get out for a walk later......to the pub. </div>
<br />John and Louisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306401098175678313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647655644192071903.post-90853619473870243882014-04-24T21:45:00.002+01:002014-04-24T21:48:22.912+01:00Stourbridge, Stowaway and The Staffs & Worcs. We've had a good few days cruising since our last post and are now well into our stint on the Staffs & Worcs. Our guests have now all departed so some semblance of calm has returned.<br />
<br />
Tuesday was a locking day. 28 locks from Merry Hill down to Stourton Junction, a drop of 262 feet no less. We had arranged to meet our friends Fiona and Rob again and they joined us as planned as we descended the Delph Flight. The locks were made easy by a willing crew even though all locks were against us.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-euYXUbFjVUQ/U1l0Obav64I/AAAAAAAABRg/TgsjIyaMssg/s1600/2014_+4_24_21_29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-euYXUbFjVUQ/U1l0Obav64I/AAAAAAAABRg/TgsjIyaMssg/s1600/2014_+4_24_21_29.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Top of the Delph Flight</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
During the run to the top of the Stourbridge flight, Luke cooked a full English breakfast for everyone and we had a break at the top of the flight for refuelling. Very nice it was too and much appreciated by all concerned.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VuNdUA9UlZk/U1l0RcH7DUI/AAAAAAAABRo/evBR-7aYT-I/s1600/2014_+4_24_21_29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VuNdUA9UlZk/U1l0RcH7DUI/AAAAAAAABRo/evBR-7aYT-I/s1600/2014_+4_24_21_29.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Breakfast for our locking guests</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The Stourbridge flight, like Delph, was really pleasant, made even more so by the good weather. The remains of the once busy glass industry much in evidence as you descend the flight.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDUO05h6bnbJyp_VQ31MjfJeoijby6NDGHUTVkGpLygNfNrR-UyBgjqpiTbqu6ORIdOTR8H-rGjD4dfKtbp7z9m15ohsoMKdJKyOIHvpsc7N_xJlOeCeGOLFr71wiOmgp4AYgSREuv2G38/s1600/2014_+4_24_21_30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDUO05h6bnbJyp_VQ31MjfJeoijby6NDGHUTVkGpLygNfNrR-UyBgjqpiTbqu6ORIdOTR8H-rGjD4dfKtbp7z9m15ohsoMKdJKyOIHvpsc7N_xJlOeCeGOLFr71wiOmgp4AYgSREuv2G38/s1600/2014_+4_24_21_30.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Stourbridge Flight...lovely. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We found our little 'stowaway' on the gunwale as we entered a lock. Not exactly sure how long he had been there, but it's a long time since I've seen a newt. Louise reckoned that I quite often take after one......not sure what she means !!!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1_E9A9Nm_kOOXDYYNCK3E1nydI5wX7KD64gqWc0i4kK1q2CbjnyRymtl6JzFhDT8Cj7UxyL5fyxMz-FUi4lSKBP53HTDrjtsgDH5gDwHgqOBuD_A8SN9WFpCtqwW4o18G0UD8DnlomPhv/s1600/2014_+4_24_21_30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1_E9A9Nm_kOOXDYYNCK3E1nydI5wX7KD64gqWc0i4kK1q2CbjnyRymtl6JzFhDT8Cj7UxyL5fyxMz-FUi4lSKBP53HTDrjtsgDH5gDwHgqOBuD_A8SN9WFpCtqwW4o18G0UD8DnlomPhv/s1600/2014_+4_24_21_30.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Awww...how cute </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Once we reached Stourton we reversed onto the visitor moorings above Stewponey Lock and had a well deserved drink (or two). Before we knew it, it was time for our guests to leave. Fiona and Rob kindly ran Luke and Annabelle to the train station for us and we headed off to find a peaceful mooring for the night at Prestwood.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ye17IBVCOtQ/U1l0ZbzDLGI/AAAAAAAABSA/jvhwFzaIa5Q/s1600/2014_+4_24_21_30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ye17IBVCOtQ/U1l0ZbzDLGI/AAAAAAAABSA/jvhwFzaIa5Q/s1600/2014_+4_24_21_30.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fiona, Rob, Annabelle, Luke and Louise</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The last couple of days have been leisurely and we have seen little boat traffic. We made our way up to Wightwick on Wednesday where we had arranged to meet our friends David and Sarah on nb The Hodmadod (East Anglian dialect for Snail). We bought Blue Moon from them three years ago and have become good friends, so it was lovely to see them. We enjoyed a good meal and catch up at The Mermaid.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nbfYkB-Y9u8/U1l0cnlN1QI/AAAAAAAABSI/9aFSosNTvVI/s1600/2014_+4_24_21_30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nbfYkB-Y9u8/U1l0cnlN1QI/AAAAAAAABSI/9aFSosNTvVI/s1600/2014_+4_24_21_30.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rocky Lock</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i5CUw6LExQg/U1l0fZ9gdjI/AAAAAAAABSQ/0WY2hCVRkOo/s1600/2014_+4_24_21_30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i5CUw6LExQg/U1l0fZ9gdjI/AAAAAAAABSQ/0WY2hCVRkOo/s1600/2014_+4_24_21_30.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Botterham Staircase</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Having said goodbye to them this morning, we have had a relaxed day with some decent weather. We thought our eyes were deceiving us as we approached Aldersley Junction as it looked like there was a person 'flying' across the water. As we got closer it was a group of children enjoying activities at an outward bound centre.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JE9W7jPn-7E/U1l0hzMcCyI/AAAAAAAABSY/jkL7qBiEnKs/s1600/2014_+4_24_21_30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JE9W7jPn-7E/U1l0hzMcCyI/AAAAAAAABSY/jkL7qBiEnKs/s1600/2014_+4_24_21_30.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looks good fun</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We started to see more boat traffic after we passed Autherley Junction. Gailey was all a bit tight with all the hire boats double breasted. We'd have thought there would be more of them out considering it's still the Easter holidays for some.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie8DgGKTFaY5jR1Zm6Vv14V-TmasC68m2LjPTxI8nvF7HQbyL3WS0hzF98WlS6Nwk6LUnags5a22DHErPx9IU8qYbbWLtG0Mruf66w4G97JWXksBtwT3rqw6JEDTplKVRGOTyOAtt1ckho/s1600/2014_+4_24_21_31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie8DgGKTFaY5jR1Zm6Vv14V-TmasC68m2LjPTxI8nvF7HQbyL3WS0hzF98WlS6Nwk6LUnags5a22DHErPx9IU8qYbbWLtG0Mruf66w4G97JWXksBtwT3rqw6JEDTplKVRGOTyOAtt1ckho/s1600/2014_+4_24_21_31.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Breath in !!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hBDNHOI9hrY/U1l0np2Jr3I/AAAAAAAABSo/ITlXuEizqDU/s1600/2014_+4_24_21_31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hBDNHOI9hrY/U1l0np2Jr3I/AAAAAAAABSo/ITlXuEizqDU/s1600/2014_+4_24_21_31.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Galley Roundhouse</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
With the weather forecast not as good for tomorrow we decided to continue a bit further than planned and have moored near to Tedddesley Park. I'm not sure what it is but Penkridge never seems to make us want to stop and spend the night there, although there were plenty there today that did.John and Louisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306401098175678313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647655644192071903.post-40921225899265203262014-04-21T22:25:00.004+01:002014-04-21T22:29:03.927+01:00Birmingham & The Black Country<div style="text-align: justify;">
We've spent the last couple of days in the concrete jungle of Birmingham and it's surroundings. Now that might not sound appealing to some, but we have to say that we actually enjoy the inner city area and what it has to offer. It can be hard work getting there, but the effort is more than worth it, especially when we had cracking company meeting us there too.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The weather forecast for Sunday was not great, so we made the early start about 7am. We were soon through the three locks at Minworth and onto Salford Junction and then started the 150 feet climb of Aston Locks and Farmers Bridge.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GlgWW-wMIhc/U1V-TBW1wlI/AAAAAAAABPg/ZiamnKCVNB0/s1600/2014_+4_21_21_22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GlgWW-wMIhc/U1V-TBW1wlI/AAAAAAAABPg/ZiamnKCVNB0/s1600/2014_+4_21_21_22.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Salford Junction</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Aston Locks are new to us, but they were in our favour and far more pleasant than we had expected. The paddles were well greased and some of the gates new with very little leakage at all. All we needed was the sun which had made a hasty retreat from yesterday.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp9nEUSqqfm3nWnddCgAIKoujsVTT3Us1BtW4uv2msGoONk2ax1hG_31B5wjjH09HdY7YndPGcYcGcRrl6ceKz6RpmtwidO1TMxU4oO6hDJp8X6hfKXcnY0ItfP1Q3b_4Xo5ne2jzzulmS/s1600/2014_+4_21_21_23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp9nEUSqqfm3nWnddCgAIKoujsVTT3Us1BtW4uv2msGoONk2ax1hG_31B5wjjH09HdY7YndPGcYcGcRrl6ceKz6RpmtwidO1TMxU4oO6hDJp8X6hfKXcnY0ItfP1Q3b_4Xo5ne2jzzulmS/s1600/2014_+4_21_21_23.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aston Locks</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A brief respite before we continued the climb up the Farmers Bridge flight. Unfortunately we had to turn the bottom half of the flight, but when the locks are so close together it's easy enough to empty the lock ahead whilst the current one is filling. It is strange to be actually under buildings. We had quite a bit of interest from passers by which is always nice, especially when you can enlist the help of the younger ones watching to open and close the gates.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Qwg90Mqqhfc/U1WBmCr_7TI/AAAAAAAABRQ/wFT8lBmC2MQ/s1600/2014_+4_21_21_37.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Qwg90Mqqhfc/U1WBmCr_7TI/AAAAAAAABRQ/wFT8lBmC2MQ/s1600/2014_+4_21_21_37.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An unusual picture of James Brindley</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cgVAh1FfON8/U1WBM9c8e5I/AAAAAAAABRA/Qor65cAMi3g/s1600/2014_+4_21_21_35.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cgVAh1FfON8/U1WBM9c8e5I/AAAAAAAABRA/Qor65cAMi3g/s1600/2014_+4_21_21_35.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Almost at the top of Farmers Bridge as the rain starts. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
As we were reaching the top of the flight we were joined by our youngest son Luke and his girlfriend who had travelled by train to join us for a couple of days. Great timing once all the work was almost done! We managed to moor opposite the NIA just as the heavens opened, so the early start was well worth it.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k94zWzphvZk/U1WBbbi_qXI/AAAAAAAABRI/aUiuHIh8V10/s1600/2014_+4_21_21_36.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k94zWzphvZk/U1WBbbi_qXI/AAAAAAAABRI/aUiuHIh8V10/s1600/2014_+4_21_21_36.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our spot for the night. Plenty of boats here. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Later we were joined by our very good friends Rob & Fiona, armed with wine and a freshly baked cake....oh welcome aboard. They live in Stourbridge and popped over to see us and join us for dinner which we had at The Malt House....very average at best. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This morning we had a bit of time to spare and enjoyed an early morning amble around the area. It was so quiet with it being a bank holiday. Rob & Fiona joined us again about 10.30am before we headed off. They were aghast at where the canal travelled out of Birmingham on the New Main Line, and could identify so many landmarks having never realised that the canal was actually there at all.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UwznI2v1Xto/U1V-27j_evI/AAAAAAAABPw/k6ddAWXnPK4/s1600/2014_+4_21_21_25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UwznI2v1Xto/U1V-27j_evI/AAAAAAAABPw/k6ddAWXnPK4/s1600/2014_+4_21_21_25.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Turn Junction</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zQKLS5lWIl0/U1V_lxwRcbI/AAAAAAAABQA/6JaJ8_SLw2o/s1600/2014_+4_21_21_28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zQKLS5lWIl0/U1V_lxwRcbI/AAAAAAAABQA/6JaJ8_SLw2o/s1600/2014_+4_21_21_28.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I've not quite worked this one out yet</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn-cd71f0jYpIPFZmXOMJHzV7336mP0qKBjm2Wj_yyywSWeZAnhSU-TBfbP4aScWrCpBrqoF8w98NfY68yJ_ZKKqq9WZJt_tL83KbeyrJ6kokGiFHnV7fRcfBCSfGWm7RuseR7cy9AYcBP/s1600/2014_+4_21_21_29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn-cd71f0jYpIPFZmXOMJHzV7336mP0qKBjm2Wj_yyywSWeZAnhSU-TBfbP4aScWrCpBrqoF8w98NfY68yJ_ZKKqq9WZJt_tL83KbeyrJ6kokGiFHnV7fRcfBCSfGWm7RuseR7cy9AYcBP/s1600/2014_+4_21_21_29.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fiona & Rob taking the helm</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We turned left and towards the Netherton Tunnel which we had never travelled through ourselves. We met several people walking through the tunnel which was a strange experience. The new tunnel light did a sterling job and about 40 minutes later we emerged into the sunshine at Windmill End where we had a brief stop for water and a leg stretch. Fiona soon realised where she was, as at the back of the Bumble Hole Conservation Area was a pub (now apartments) they used to visit each and every week twenty odd years ago and she never realised the canal was there.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-evKzMnzb9KU/U1WAAdY4XtI/AAAAAAAABQY/vBvRWcveQWU/s1600/2014_+4_21_21_30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-evKzMnzb9KU/U1WAAdY4XtI/AAAAAAAABQY/vBvRWcveQWU/s1600/2014_+4_21_21_30.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entering Netherton Tunnel</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHYWsct2XwYCTlUUxpmaYZ0ovtBmUSl7imrtLs0EUpwG6NVE3rJF5YZeLkgAC7Ae3OShoSeh2lozHTH__YIGxtXr8zHzilv1xV1Y4dA3W1hcr0Cv9o5aRIosdhbAMF6G2nOyHF1_6s59yv/s1600/2014_+4_21_21_31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHYWsct2XwYCTlUUxpmaYZ0ovtBmUSl7imrtLs0EUpwG6NVE3rJF5YZeLkgAC7Ae3OShoSeh2lozHTH__YIGxtXr8zHzilv1xV1Y4dA3W1hcr0Cv9o5aRIosdhbAMF6G2nOyHF1_6s59yv/s1600/2014_+4_21_21_31.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And out the other side into sunshine</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hMivpIcHHbI/U1WAiUgSwgI/AAAAAAAABQo/Nwbjq7v1s8g/s1600/2014_+4_21_21_32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hMivpIcHHbI/U1WAiUgSwgI/AAAAAAAABQo/Nwbjq7v1s8g/s1600/2014_+4_21_21_32.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Windmill End</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The run up to Park Head Junction was pleasant and then the sharp left turn into Blowers Green Lock, our only one of the day. Tonight we have moored at The Waterfront at Dudley. Quite a nice mooring but what a shame nearly all the retail units are empty. The only two that are still in use are a Wetherspoons pub and The Brewers Wharf (2 for 1) pub which we decided to try...so much better than last nights choice and we'll worth a visit. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimwf8Yd21kvV8yCKD16znnZu4xNSBgsScHFEwsfWXVO7NEKTNLfIemqyZSo7BjX7PhfzG1lgSZXkrAGRt4xgEFwq0CiEG_gXOvylb-__cRilICKWLd3NcxWCgb0AeW1VjiF6ik_KJI0Jhb/s1600/2014_+4_21_21_33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimwf8Yd21kvV8yCKD16znnZu4xNSBgsScHFEwsfWXVO7NEKTNLfIemqyZSo7BjX7PhfzG1lgSZXkrAGRt4xgEFwq0CiEG_gXOvylb-__cRilICKWLd3NcxWCgb0AeW1VjiF6ik_KJI0Jhb/s1600/2014_+4_21_21_33.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blowers Green</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NuKwKcQlSVU/U1WA_Bd44vI/AAAAAAAABQ4/mwN5jRFbeTo/s1600/2014_+4_21_21_34.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NuKwKcQlSVU/U1WA_Bd44vI/AAAAAAAABQ4/mwN5jRFbeTo/s1600/2014_+4_21_21_34.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Waterfront, Dudley</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Tomorrow we will drop down the 28 locks to the Staffs & Worcs. Rob & Fiona had such a great day today, they'll be back for more tomorrow. Ooh good, we never turn down some free lock monkey help....</div>
John and Louisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306401098175678313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647655644192071903.post-76363357081702850232014-04-19T22:13:00.002+01:002014-04-19T22:25:43.454+01:00Curdworth Locks...It must be the air.No rush to get away this morning. We weren't planning on a big day and were glad of a of a lie in as the natives were a bit restless in Hopwas last night keeping us awake until the small hours.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Jasper eventually persuaded John to take him for a walk in the nearby woods so he could do a bit of squirrel chasing (his favourite sport) before breakfast. The first 'craft' to pass us this morning was this chap paddling a surfboard....takes all sorts I guess. </div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RHW7N3yWlfQ/U1LijPxPHWI/AAAAAAAABPQ/T8oCiSFnxlI/s1600/2014_+4_19_21_53.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RHW7N3yWlfQ/U1LijPxPHWI/AAAAAAAABPQ/T8oCiSFnxlI/s1600/2014_+4_19_21_53.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
David and Sheena on nb Tombee Too then appeared and stopped off briefly for a chat before heading off towards Polesworth and we eventually got going about 11am. Where had the sun gone ? Very disappointing after the beautiful weather of yesterday. A brief stop at Fazeley services and then the<br />
right turn onto the Birmingham & Fazeley where this artwork has appeared since we were last this way.</div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmLEhBpTZC35tM1IC9rAOGGi3fHI23TCrrkECwU7GJ_o8YMIOfuOBao_a3eYjE8s6kZ13Ih8UzNjO0gUlLI3YaJg5DS33vHqd6Q4FX5yKd_yj-_Ru2RDtV96vMBlcS2ViQ15aC_WUSmmft/s1600/2014_+4_19_20_57.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmLEhBpTZC35tM1IC9rAOGGi3fHI23TCrrkECwU7GJ_o8YMIOfuOBao_a3eYjE8s6kZ13Ih8UzNjO0gUlLI3YaJg5DS33vHqd6Q4FX5yKd_yj-_Ru2RDtV96vMBlcS2ViQ15aC_WUSmmft/s1600/2014_+4_19_20_57.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
We were soon passing the ornate bridge at Drayton Manor, now of course best known for its theme park. The original Drayton Manor was once home to Sir Robert Peel, former PM and founder of the modern police force, but I believe the original manor is no more. </div>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOPw0cZNqWVgQTRhcSc-XlcWB-7xT5i3JMyFRk8zeeOcyq6s6HQD_IifeNi2J5XfBF9RhB4rg43ucfTrfxaeqVZkkZn00OmBmZB-GxtwJxfpDwqN9nAdsoCh0RCdx20wJauK4iaa1BWwUL/s1600/2014_+4_19_20_58.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOPw0cZNqWVgQTRhcSc-XlcWB-7xT5i3JMyFRk8zeeOcyq6s6HQD_IifeNi2J5XfBF9RhB4rg43ucfTrfxaeqVZkkZn00OmBmZB-GxtwJxfpDwqN9nAdsoCh0RCdx20wJauK4iaa1BWwUL/s1600/2014_+4_19_20_58.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Drayton Manor Swingbridge</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
We were soon at the bottom of Curdworth Locks and set about the ascent. The locks were in our favour which was great. Jasper is not much of a fan of locks. He can get a bit agitated if we as much as brush a gate or wall on the way in. Sometimes we will have him off the boat as we work the locks, but it is easier if he's inside. As Louise worked Lock 8 and we were almost about to leave, she took a quick look in through the window. With a big grin she looked at me and said 'Would you mind going inside and removing Jasper from the kitchen work top'. How he had got up there is a bit of a mystery, and very sheepish he looked too as he was lifted down. Okay Jasper.....you win. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Curdworth Locks are actually quite pleasant and just the one gate top and bottom. We came through a fishing match in the long pound between locks 8&7. The fishing couldn't have been much good. How men can look so miserable with one head is beyond me.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z7lO0cNKYWc/U1LRm-Q1X9I/AAAAAAAABNs/yRbFKRK76CE/s1600/2014_+4_19_20_42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z7lO0cNKYWc/U1LRm-Q1X9I/AAAAAAAABNs/yRbFKRK76CE/s1600/2014_+4_19_20_42.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
We then met our first candidate for 'selfish git of the day'. This was moored on a single rope right in the middle of the lock landing so that absolutely nobody else could make use of it. Fortunately we didn't need to as the lock was in our favour, but that's not the point. Totally thoughtless.<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5jX2o1dtYYeJqjUgrmMW2FNcyo4EX7xj3Ut-SVGHWumn29CG2gbS7GmiKZa6mbTL1GFr2471fYK2OxLPu-15ea3LtC9crsKKOC-d2AUSzzUuFDDbR1ERO2WFa9LpqlR6nZT6MDNEt7EGu/s1600/2014_+4_19_20_42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5jX2o1dtYYeJqjUgrmMW2FNcyo4EX7xj3Ut-SVGHWumn29CG2gbS7GmiKZa6mbTL1GFr2471fYK2OxLPu-15ea3LtC9crsKKOC-d2AUSzzUuFDDbR1ERO2WFa9LpqlR6nZT6MDNEt7EGu/s1600/2014_+4_19_20_42.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
We could see that there was a boat coming down the locks ahead so we stayed put until we were able to pass in the pound between locks. We seemed to be waiting for ages and in fact water started to pour over the bottom gates of the lock above.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfaMXd7pgYOV_arZ76bRSFgJz4m_LiEYmdbJYJXd_OW7cAxWI95AwXxtOidFb558s0RMLoYC7A151VTsWitL8X1VPtFAPhsuKRX0UXmItFH3kkeWz5e3PqrDTYAFTWorxmfbXJ6vAW2E1e/s1600/2014_+4_19_20_42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfaMXd7pgYOV_arZ76bRSFgJz4m_LiEYmdbJYJXd_OW7cAxWI95AwXxtOidFb558s0RMLoYC7A151VTsWitL8X1VPtFAPhsuKRX0UXmItFH3kkeWz5e3PqrDTYAFTWorxmfbXJ6vAW2E1e/s1600/2014_+4_19_20_42.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You can just make out the water coming over the gates</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Strange we thought, but after some time, the boat came into the lock and descended. We passed in the pound exchanging pleasantries and continued on. It was only after we got two locks further on that we could see the problem. The water coming over the gates was from the now half empty pound above as paddles had been left open top and bottom. Many thanks candidate number two !!</div>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sOvYXxdUn8g/U1LR0n2XVEI/AAAAAAAABOM/ZaemnkCxGvo/s1600/2014_+4_19_20_43.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sOvYXxdUn8g/U1LR0n2XVEI/AAAAAAAABOM/ZaemnkCxGvo/s1600/2014_+4_19_20_43.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Low water levels</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
We ran some water down to refill the pound before we met our third and final candidate, (things really did come in threes today) nb Astbury moored on the lock landing above Lock 2. Why do people do it?</div>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mQYToOwZGDM/U1LR-bj-BXI/AAAAAAAABOc/tWt-RsqGXTM/s1600/2014_+4_19_20_43.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mQYToOwZGDM/U1LR-bj-BXI/AAAAAAAABOc/tWt-RsqGXTM/s1600/2014_+4_19_20_43.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Named and shamed !!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
Anyway, moaning over. We have moored just beyond Curdworth Tunnel for the night and are heading into Birmingham tomorrow, so lots of locks for us (and Jasper) to tackle. Early start on the cards, so an early night too. </div>
John and Louisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306401098175678313noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647655644192071903.post-25921742394983322122014-04-19T11:06:00.000+01:002014-04-19T16:49:15.070+01:00Friday wasn't just Good...it was fab. We're finally out with the masses for the Easter break and what a lovely day we had. A Good Friday it certainly turned out to be.<br />
<br />
John had made the short drive over to Hopwas to pick up our guests for the day, Mark & Jane. Mark is a work colleague of Louise and he has plenty of boating experience, albeit on rather larger vessels, namely The Royal Yacht and HMS Coventry, on which he served during the Falklands conflict.<br />
<br />
We didn't hang about once everyone was aboard, fully expecting to find the usual bank holiday log jam at Fradley. However it was not to be as we sailed through without any hold up at all - why can't it always be like that. Let's hope our luck holds out for the rest of the trip.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CI_rBNuGCRM/U1I_cNa_ysI/AAAAAAAABLA/3r3xDDvthoc/s1600/2014_+4_19_10_18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CI_rBNuGCRM/U1I_cNa_ysI/AAAAAAAABLA/3r3xDDvthoc/s1600/2014_+4_19_10_18.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Louise talking 'paint' with Stanley</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiObm_diUQFNQh4XBXNNVakgEWRUJCbDX5hy5XNHIPppaunsLFFtXbd7_Nb9D4PnScgGudPJKA2DXDreTy9gZ_jcVZ-zOby1K1nNwyWChx5ViWcgMaR2zM4xCGUfk8r5oOJfiSheCkW5zGS/s1600/2014_+4_19_10_18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiObm_diUQFNQh4XBXNNVakgEWRUJCbDX5hy5XNHIPppaunsLFFtXbd7_Nb9D4PnScgGudPJKA2DXDreTy9gZ_jcVZ-zOby1K1nNwyWChx5ViWcgMaR2zM4xCGUfk8r5oOJfiSheCkW5zGS/s1600/2014_+4_19_10_18.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The standard picture of the Mucky Duck</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We passed countless boats travelling towards Streethay. Everyone was in good spirits with the lovely weather. Just beyond Streethay there was a boat moored and as we approached Louise jumped up out of the cratch waving her arms. It was nb Tombee Too who we had travelled with last September through Leicester. David and Sheena were aboard so we had to stop and say our hellos. It was lovely to see them again and we all had a very pleasant hour chatting away and enjoying a beer or two in the sun.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9azImM7hAJmr4olJtwR2VTq8psPvIFNaaOifWI_7_eqNdom6i_wln8-jFbIACiSwI35HmTd82vmesQNwOaGxZTa7Of_Ei4dAeh6Ih0Z4plqSK2z5Ft3jV3COD4oa1OMTvkrNshTDixcfa/s1600/2014_+4_19_10_19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9azImM7hAJmr4olJtwR2VTq8psPvIFNaaOifWI_7_eqNdom6i_wln8-jFbIACiSwI35HmTd82vmesQNwOaGxZTa7Of_Ei4dAeh6Ih0Z4plqSK2z5Ft3jV3COD4oa1OMTvkrNshTDixcfa/s1600/2014_+4_19_10_19.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sheena, David, Louise, Mark & Jane - Streethay Branch of AA</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L9GoFmFh1NQ/U1I_sxyKM1I/AAAAAAAABLw/93bOOx9UVGk/s1600/2014_+4_19_10_19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L9GoFmFh1NQ/U1I_sxyKM1I/AAAAAAAABLw/93bOOx9UVGk/s1600/2014_+4_19_10_19.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More meat on Niki Laudas ears</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This chap got the girls talking, out for a run in his 'budgie smugglers'</div>
<br />
That is what boating is all about, made all the more enjoyable being unplanned, and Mark & Jane could quite get used to the lifestyle I think.<br />
<br />
There were a number of boats heading our way, so unfortunately time was such that we had to make a move as we had a table booked for dinner at the Tame Otter at Hopwas at 5pm.<br />
<br />
Whittington Wharf looked resplendent with all it's bunting and flags. It looked like they had some sort of event on over the weekend.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yFh2srkhQUg/U1JAE8cJeUI/AAAAAAAABMQ/k2lsmRfZn4c/s1600/2014_+4_19_10_21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yFh2srkhQUg/U1JAE8cJeUI/AAAAAAAABMQ/k2lsmRfZn4c/s1600/2014_+4_19_10_21.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Whittington Wharf</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As we left Whittington and it's poly tunnels we joined the back of a convoy of boats, the first three of which were all travelling together. The pace of life almost ground to a halt. One of the boats suddenly found itself broadside across the canal for no apparent reason, but would they allow those behind to pass......would they heck as like. So it was a very slow, but not too painful journey into Hopwas. The embankment above the River Tame is a lovely spot amongst the trees. We were certain that the village moorings would be taken, so moored just short of the village and walked the short distance in to the pub.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Qdp0KZUM_2U/U1JAKLxijHI/AAAAAAAABMg/HE1RfshS3fY/s1600/2014_+4_19_10_21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Qdp0KZUM_2U/U1JAKLxijHI/AAAAAAAABMg/HE1RfshS3fY/s1600/2014_+4_19_10_21.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We got ourselves a convoy...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We enjoyed a very nice meal and a few more drinks in the Tame Otter before saying our goodbyes to Mark & Jane and walking back to the boat past the entirely empty visitor moorings !!John and Louisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306401098175678313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647655644192071903.post-698518364005043322014-04-14T21:10:00.000+01:002014-04-14T21:10:37.599+01:00All ship shape and ready for the off.<div style="text-align: justify;">
Well we're thoroughly looking forward to getting out of the marina for our first proper trip of the year later this week. We are going to head up into Birmingham via the Birmingham and Fazeley and then wend our way down to Stourton Junction via Netherton Tunnel and the Stourbridge Canal before heading back up on the Staffs &Worcs, which is where it all began for us a number of years ago when we hired a 'yellow peril' from Viking Afloat at Worcester, so we always have a soft spot for this canal.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfucpjUtkImMUAbGcjiV0QXDBJauOBqQL1qjoow-mwDhX2BsTA2MB7P1TV-Rw0BATrdjbCutGaMMp0ZiabHfFGaU6AJzAdqC6q67u2xfkZYUFPJt2YFQGOAyGBlSKPnoRNDT8Mtae5EIU1/s1600/Taken+from+Bullocks+Lane+Bridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfucpjUtkImMUAbGcjiV0QXDBJauOBqQL1qjoow-mwDhX2BsTA2MB7P1TV-Rw0BATrdjbCutGaMMp0ZiabHfFGaU6AJzAdqC6q67u2xfkZYUFPJt2YFQGOAyGBlSKPnoRNDT8Mtae5EIU1/s1600/Taken+from+Bullocks+Lane+Bridge.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Where it all began</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We like to explore new bits of the waterways and the trip heading off from the New Main Line, through Netherton Tunnel and then down the Delph and Stourdridge Locks will be a new experience for us and we are looking forward to it and hope to have a bit of help along the way, if things go to plan.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In preparation for 'the off' Blue Moon has been treated to a bit of a spring clean. Cratch board sanded down and re-stained, a new <a href="http://www.autoelectricalpartsuk.co.uk/products/Lighting/LED_Worklamps/LED_Round_Worklamp_042065.html" target="_blank">tunnel lamp</a> as the old one probably wouldn't have seen us through the season (or tunnels) and this one looked worth a try. The cratch cover has also had a good scrub with <a href="http://www.fabsil.com/" target="_blank">fabsil universal cleaner</a> and it's come up a treat. Engine fully serviced and even the squirrel stove has been treated to a polish. We just hope we don't need to use it whilst we're out. Just a bit of varnishing on the rear doors to do tomorrow and the weather looks ideal for that, and then it will be time to chill and relax out on the cut. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig-sjrrxlzJnCbnk4FpwT7DOIOhvyRHdoRLyJJhLgpRC6_S8fCdbtz8LxnQ8FWiPjGESKRxWrhhlD6JIf8ekd3Kl3vQm9vnuU6ymZsh_TLWUVayb8M_vUl6mdiPk1ANttBwqsVyacg6HTX/s1600/IMG_0759.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig-sjrrxlzJnCbnk4FpwT7DOIOhvyRHdoRLyJJhLgpRC6_S8fCdbtz8LxnQ8FWiPjGESKRxWrhhlD6JIf8ekd3Kl3vQm9vnuU6ymZsh_TLWUVayb8M_vUl6mdiPk1ANttBwqsVyacg6HTX/s1600/IMG_0759.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That looks better.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Can't wait.........</div>
John and Louisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306401098175678313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647655644192071903.post-60611845580046472932014-04-06T22:01:00.000+01:002014-04-06T22:01:12.943+01:00Derby 10k Experience - Mo Farah watch out !!<div style="text-align: justify;">
I mentioned in a post a few weeks ago that I had gone off for an early Sunday morning run whilst we were moored up at Shugborough as part of my training plan for the Derby 10k road race which I was running in memory of my parents. Well, today it was the real deal as race day arrived on what would have been my Dads 93rd birthday. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I signed up for the race (one I was never going to win of course) six months ago and did my first training run on New Years Day when I struggled to do half a mile and regretting ever having the ridiculous thought of entering. I had also coerced our youngest son Luke to enter to give moral support and purposely made the fact known that we were doing the race amongst family and friends so that I was prevented from changing my mind !!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In return, we decided to do the run for charity - <a href="http://www.justgiving.com/maccalad538" target="_blank">Sight Support Derbyshire</a> as my Dad was registered blind from the early part of my childhood onwards and it would have been his choice of charity and <a href="http://www.justgiving.com/Luke-McNeilly" target="_blank">Macmillan Cancer Support</a> in memory of my Mum who we lost last year and who received fantastic care from them during her final days.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_qG_U9HFv-66T1KF_CrNgZCocAdDBtmTj4Ha7LlI1n_Gx2O-gKVgZtymkus8JUT_aurC-3TBU7SLFBwn91nAuI_Vy5c5_1ViBMyUCaPW_dsW3D4Tni2WRItCk3J4fc2UiNktrjJ-BoI1M/s1600/IMG_0664.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_qG_U9HFv-66T1KF_CrNgZCocAdDBtmTj4Ha7LlI1n_Gx2O-gKVgZtymkus8JUT_aurC-3TBU7SLFBwn91nAuI_Vy5c5_1ViBMyUCaPW_dsW3D4Tni2WRItCk3J4fc2UiNktrjJ-BoI1M/s1600/IMG_0664.jpg" height="307" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What the day was really about (taken on our wedding day).</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So we were up bright and early this morning, porridge for energy and off to the iPro Stadium where the race was due to commence at 9am. 5,000 entries and lots of folks we knew with pre race nerves. The weather was kind to us and the crowds were great to keep us going. My concern was a slight injury I had picked up in training ten days ago to my calf, but it held firm up to 8k, so just the last 2k were a bit painful. The buzz of finishing inside the stadium to lots of cheering was great, if not a bit emotional.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ_R2J7bobXtbuSzFDsh2190Vz7wV2r1fXaoxFjnaGeDxjmDny5TjZPfhmx6HF3spN_oEfat8pBzCwBn6SC5Ml4wuikKjapbgojfaLffBKpJSF5zEH3i727Zjvw2o4zJL6FXSL5T-D9f0j/s1600/P1000049.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ_R2J7bobXtbuSzFDsh2190Vz7wV2r1fXaoxFjnaGeDxjmDny5TjZPfhmx6HF3spN_oEfat8pBzCwBn6SC5Ml4wuikKjapbgojfaLffBKpJSF5zEH3i727Zjvw2o4zJL6FXSL5T-D9f0j/s1600/P1000049.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Legends....oh and Cloughie & Taylor of course</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMpB89N4oxKivnMF1gdfGSQvxYaNoufPeCEENYxYP-UhR4j1GMF4rFkKyTZ7OBuaJroidNmKWIlZovNfh23UvEMEKpN0q6O5qPHBIleV5THsTxjTyQnSbQTOkj_eSo1VvWWkwnBf7tNlJ7/s1600/P1000056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMpB89N4oxKivnMF1gdfGSQvxYaNoufPeCEENYxYP-UhR4j1GMF4rFkKyTZ7OBuaJroidNmKWIlZovNfh23UvEMEKpN0q6O5qPHBIleV5THsTxjTyQnSbQTOkj_eSo1VvWWkwnBf7tNlJ7/s1600/P1000056.JPG" height="222" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In full flow with 2k to go</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We were determined to enjoy the experience of our first ever 10k and we both really did that. I said the time didn't matter and, in the scheme of things, it didn't, but I had hoped to be able to run the distance in under an hour (I'd got close in training). All runners had a timing chip on their shoe to get an accurate time, so after a nervous wait and the results being placed on the internet, I was delighted to see my time as 58.55 and Luke just ahead on 58.16 and to round it all off our charities have benefitted in the region of £1,000. What a great day in memory of two great people.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
If you would like to make a donation to either of our charities, please click on either of the links above.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
John and Louisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306401098175678313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647655644192071903.post-30410114925911633732014-03-23T20:57:00.000+00:002014-03-24T15:57:01.089+00:00A weekend busy doing..........very little<div style="text-align: justify;">
Well this weekend we were supposed to be looking forward to seeing Paul Carrack in concert at Derby Assembly Rooms, but due to a recent <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-derbyshire-26583719" target="_blank">large fire</a> the performance was cancelled and has been rescheduled for July, so as we were at a bit of a loose end we headed off down to Blue Moon for a lazy weekend.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We dodged the showers to leave the marina, keeping one ear on the events taking place at the iPro Stadium as Derby County were <strike>playing</strike> demolishing Nottingham Forest 5-0. How I am going to enjoy work on Monday morning !! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We made the quick hop down to Ravenshaw Wood and moored up in our favourite spot and spent the rest of the afternoon doing odd jobs around the boat, listening to music and just generally being lazy. Jasper kept an eye on things and welcomed all passers by. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYqBZ22dsyFzX2Of39Gqq2Splkyj3G7-v8F-9mDgTkKJscqd19weMbX6Q9QqS4xo3A_6MSzuV93CGYqLi4fg_2tia1py4dXdLWNrMX6QGf5m12MLhiOXoO_hEBAj9mQwFxePC7CqWsbWtJ/s1600/P1000021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYqBZ22dsyFzX2Of39Gqq2Splkyj3G7-v8F-9mDgTkKJscqd19weMbX6Q9QqS4xo3A_6MSzuV93CGYqLi4fg_2tia1py4dXdLWNrMX6QGf5m12MLhiOXoO_hEBAj9mQwFxePC7CqWsbWtJ/s1600/P1000021.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ravenshaw Wood</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1KXqiMxquQblBOzUInmGqRK305k-Xt3ktbUgH-nf5pQdn5wm8_1AKlIRdTRVeSgSSGzjDb0LftAMu5YAp8ywS4yGKuYexeE2sPNns_tTG5Cko8jw17G2LeWAERmuJcGZlSU9G6aFW-c0O/s1600/P1000014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1KXqiMxquQblBOzUInmGqRK305k-Xt3ktbUgH-nf5pQdn5wm8_1AKlIRdTRVeSgSSGzjDb0LftAMu5YAp8ywS4yGKuYexeE2sPNns_tTG5Cko8jw17G2LeWAERmuJcGZlSU9G6aFW-c0O/s1600/P1000014.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Keeping watch</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It's hard to believe that this view from our galley window is the route for the blasted HS2 train line which is ear marked to cut a swathe through this lovely stretch of countryside. We just hope and pray it never happens.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmFLuBK6tJjl8wzRRDUKHT1nG1jHJ6IVn0Tix2E0Iyy6Wx0IRPWYkSLB7igqRbf7YJPFyuyQxxsqxQwAI2qpfsSwyGMnzQHu00WR0-fNKkRbMKC0D0dcE-zgh5LK-Mdra4ilZO5Hh3aY8w/s1600/P1000020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmFLuBK6tJjl8wzRRDUKHT1nG1jHJ6IVn0Tix2E0Iyy6Wx0IRPWYkSLB7igqRbf7YJPFyuyQxxsqxQwAI2qpfsSwyGMnzQHu00WR0-fNKkRbMKC0D0dcE-zgh5LK-Mdra4ilZO5Hh3aY8w/s1600/P1000020.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This morning I took Jasper for a walk before breakfast and was surprised to see what I initially thought was a pile of rubbish left on the towpath. As we got closer it was apparent that it was actually someone asleep. Not what you expect to find on an early morning walk and Jasper couldn't quite work out why I put him on his lead as we passed, but I'm sure the chap wouldn't have thanked him for waking him up with a big lick. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNOnuorscgH6-UrzV9X0v1lT_iS0vb8rvAMHOxaoc1toatS-cXfZ2idVLQFLXTa4aCg9ZvxQ5EwZakLlBj5RFrCVLasXxazg3Ubcjyycbld8YBMkZaw23nFLeC0RHbHony1MnswPtqyJxS/s1600/P1000026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNOnuorscgH6-UrzV9X0v1lT_iS0vb8rvAMHOxaoc1toatS-cXfZ2idVLQFLXTa4aCg9ZvxQ5EwZakLlBj5RFrCVLasXxazg3Ubcjyycbld8YBMkZaw23nFLeC0RHbHony1MnswPtqyJxS/s1600/P1000026.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We had a quick run down to Fradley late morning and turned outside The Swan. I bet the owners of this boat were happy after the football yesterday too. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo6D1XHlzSE-sgkTVilWdQVe8Ut4Bg_X2IqkJD6BP80lEdsxUriosn3rC6Fhx28U06i_MbFlLx5BYi0Vn2HfWZB_VAEszxBUPR4c162faDsJ2bXY3vrOS-y2Jc9iLjnE2moLwkK5qLZiMa/s1600/P1000030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo6D1XHlzSE-sgkTVilWdQVe8Ut4Bg_X2IqkJD6BP80lEdsxUriosn3rC6Fhx28U06i_MbFlLx5BYi0Vn2HfWZB_VAEszxBUPR4c162faDsJ2bXY3vrOS-y2Jc9iLjnE2moLwkK5qLZiMa/s1600/P1000030.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We spent the afternoon back at Ravenshaw Wood before reluctantly heading home. We'd not been far, but the batteries, both ours and on the boat, have had a bit of a re-charge.</div>
John and Louisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02306401098175678313noreply@blogger.com1