Tardebigge

Today's Canal - Worcester and Birmingham

Although we were off by our usual 9.30, two boats had already passed us and started up the flight so we knew that we would find most, if not all, against us, at least for the next couple of hours until, possibly, a boat or two might have stopped overnight above the flight. However, with the rivers closed it is only hire boats from the two main bases at Stoke Prior and Worcester that might be coming down. 

Immediately we started at the Bottom Lock!

Alongside the next lock we spotted a patch of pretty white violets (we think!)

For some time one of the locks has been known for very slippery edges when wet. We have almost been caught out by it in the past but today it was not a problem. However, as this sign has been displayed for some time, it seems that a solution (or one that i affordable) has eluded the best of CaRT engineers!

A hire boat had started up the flight not long after ourselves. They had a crew of five, plus two very young girls - spanning four generations. For the next locks one of the crew  came to set for them but quickly realised that helping us exit quickly by offering to close up the top gate was on their best interests! Alas, when he was replaced after about nine locks, the next crew kept to their own boat - interestingly, this meant that they fell behind us somewhat, despite that we had to stop and close the gates!

Just before the Tardebigge reservoir, we noticed that there was substantial water boil below the lock - and then a strong flow coming down the bywash. A few pounds earlier we had quite low levels so wondered if, perhaps automatically, water was being let down from the reservoir to compensate.

When we passed the overflow, the level seemed almost full but we still did not spot where the feeder joins the canal. Anyone know?

The general view of the reservoir was very much healthier than when we came down last October (see) although last spring it had been similarly full (see) although that was five weeks later in the year.

The bywash flows were still strong at the next few locks, above the reservoir level, so water must be coming from elsewhere. Perhaps from the Bittel Reservoir a little further ahead, which we should pass tomorrow.

We had been promised a sunny afternoon but the grey, overcast, cloud we reluctant to go away. A couple of locks from our planned overnight mooring (just one lock down from the summit) things started to improve.

By the time we passed the cottage by the former engine house, really blue sky was visible.

We moored just beyond the engine house - we had expected to go just beyond the next bridge where there is a known good mooring (albeit in the shade) but we suddenly spotted a couple of rings just before the bridge so quickly backed up and enjoyed the sunshine for the rest of the afternoon.

The 29 locks had taken us just over 4 and a half hours, non-stop. Last year we claimed to have competed all 30 locks in 3 hours 35 mins but we did have help and we were able to continue then for a bit further towards Birmingham. However - lest, dear reader, you are tempted to think that we are failing fast, we did have Andrew's help then and we did also keep well ahead of the well-crewed boat behind us.

2.0 Miles - 29 Locks