tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-62399892734077009092024-03-18T12:22:44.040+00:00nb AlchemyThe story of Mike and Christine's travels on AlchemyMike Toddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00067557327430064111noreply@blogger.comBlogger875125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6239989273407700909.post-63525223255972564322024-03-16T11:38:00.172+00:002024-03-18T12:21:48.883+00:00Another Quick Visit<p> It was time for another check on the boat - just in case and also we had a very short list of tasks to do, including re-filling the fuel tank and replacing the shower bar.</p><p>We have been having a tussle most winters with the heating system. We are reluctant to forego the protection of the frost stat entirely but out neighbour has reported that the heater comes on much more frequently than that (as if it was on its normal schedule) and we do 'lose' diesel from the tank.</p><p>When we left last time, with the help from Steve next door, we really did think that it was switched off but more diesel had been consumed. Thankfully, the tank was not quite empty as that makes re-starting the heater system rather tedious (usually needed to employ someone more agile than either of us to get to the appropriate recesses of the engine bay!) </p><p>First, however, was the shower. Right at then end of the last season, just before we were holed up at Alvechurch, the shower started to behave very oddly. When it was first turned on, no water emerged until the nearby wash basin tap was turned on just briefly. The shower would then work but all rather worrying. We did get the staff at ABC to take a look, which they kindly did whilst we returned home, but - despite being able to replicate the problem - they could not find a reason, other than to suggest replacing the shower bar, the combined on/off and temperature controller. Last week we bought a new one from our local Screwfix - we were advised not to bother with anything more expensive than the basis, the chap indicated that they all do the same thing but some look fancier! Andrew had advised that it would be a simple task but we have never attempted it before and, with our track record on plumbing work (ie avoiding it like the plague) it was with some trepidation that we made it the first task (apart from connecting up the hose pipe to ensure that we had some water to test out the shower!) The old bar came off without a hitch and the new one was soon in its place. Could it really be that easy? We put the immersion heater on, as we were connected to the landline, and gave the shower a test. Well, we did not actually disrobe to get in under it for a full run but it does have the appearance of having fixed the problem.</p><p>We checked the bilges but they were bone dry and for once the drain channels around the deck board remained clear of leaves. However, we did notice a strange back residue around the rain hole from the starboard stern locker. After the contents had been removed, mainly at the moment a small stock of coke and tonic cans, we were able to mop out a smallish amount of liquid. But why was it black? Where did it come from? Normally if anything gets into the lockers it is rain and usually remains quite clean. No obvious answer until we started to return the stock - one of the coke cans was empty but with the ring pull intact. Even so, the mystery was not completely solved as the can was not keen to be crushed so there was no obvious leak!</p><p>Meanwhile, Christine had been stowing away the partial stock of boat clothes to save time when we eventually start off the season. Time then for the rolls we had brought with us for lunch!</p><p>After that we cast off and cruised all of the few hundred metres to the fuel point by the office and, after filling up, back to where we started. But at least it was a cruise!</p><p>A month ago we switched to an electric car for the first time. So far we had only been to Swindon and back, well within the range. Coming to the marina we should have had plenty for the round trip but we had had a lengthy diversion resulting from a weekend road closure we did not know about until we reached it. In any case, we wanted to try out charging from a public point - the nearest (and the only one working according to one of the online maps/guides) was at Lidl in town. So we locked up the boat about three o'clock and found the charge point - fortunately not in use as there is only one at a time! We did have to download an app but, for once, it went without hitch after we had fed it with all the usual personal details and top-up! We then went to the adjoining B&M and Lidl stores to fill in time and pick up one or two items, including milk for home. </p><p>When we returned the charge session had finished - it had done as much as it could with the £10 top up we had put on, which put us back to just over 80%. We could then set off back without range-anxiety. In fact the road closure was only on the north-bound carriageway of the A419 so no additional miles needed.</p><p>We now plan to start our season cruising a week after Easter. We need to head northwards as we are booked in for an extensive boat re-paint, starting late May. (We had to book this two seasons back!) However, we have not been able to set off by now, even for a shakedown cruise, for two unrelated reasons. Firstly, we have had further health issues (more Mike this time) but a Consultant has prescribed medication (only available from last year) that appears to have had very beneficial results. Even without that, we could not have gone very far. There have been planned stoppages both north and south from Hanbury Junction on the Worcester and Birmingham, whilst the winter rains and flooding have closed the Droitwich with sediment that prevented lock operation. We understand that it is expected that all will be clear by Easter (unlike those hoping to do a route via the North Oxford) The River Severn remains closed to navigation and unlikely to recover to a safe level for some time so we do not have much hope of avoiding Tardebigge, yet again. we had hope to be able to avoid going all the way up to the Birmingham level and back down again at Wolverhampton - but we should have time to take it easy!</p>Mike Toddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00067557327430064111noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6239989273407700909.post-25202756586669112162024-01-17T14:37:00.001+00:002024-01-21T12:01:12.276+00:00Winter Checkup<p>Yesterday we made a brief visit to Alchemy just to be sure that no adverse effects of the winter had occurred! For the most part all was well but we did discover why diesel was disappearing when we thought that the heating system was turned off. This was due to a mis-reading of the not-always-user-friendly small user guide for Heat Miser! The result was that we had left it on frost stat settings that were not visible on the control panel. Hopefully we have now corrected that.</p><p>We took the opportunity to make sure that the drainage channels around the rear deck board were clear of leaves as this can lead to quite a lot of rainwater spilling into a engine bay. The bays themselves were almost dry and there were few leaves trapped in the channels but in the past6 this has been a problem.</p><p>In the process of all this we discovered yet again the willingness of boaters to look after each other. Thanks folks!</p><p>On the way back we called on a friend who now lives in Cheltenham and had a lovely light lunch with her. Alas, after an otherwise good journey back, with about five miles to go, something (we know not what) happened that led to our front left wheel hitting a kerb and the wing being reshaped by a tree! Fortunately we were only going at 20 mph around a series of tight bends and no human was damaged in the process. Hence we are temporarily car-less and can only get into town by taxi. A night to forget especially as it was very cold and icy indeed.</p>Mike Toddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00067557327430064111noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6239989273407700909.post-41523707536714748552023-12-02T15:30:00.132+00:002023-12-03T16:00:01.169+00:00Car Shuffle and Home<p>We arrived in the marina last night so no cruising today, but we did still have the car to retrieve from Alvechurch. Today was one of several train driver strike days but schedules were supposed to be published by yesterday - with some indicated that way. Mike found that the last trip of the morning using the 3 train route (in reverse) that he used when unexpectedly collecting the car from the marina just after the slippage at Shortwood was still due to depart just after 10 am. He booked etickets. (Droitwich->Bromsgrove->Barnt Green ->Alvechurch in 45 minutes) and a taxi from the marina to the station at 9.30.</p><p>We awoke to find a very different day, weather-wise, from the previous two days. There was a significant fog/mist with freezing temperatures. Just the conditions for chilling the lungs when doing anything energetic outside. At least we had made the right call on days to come down all those locks.</p><p>The taxi arrived on time but when Mike was dropped at the station he immediately saw that his train was CANCELLED! The schedule on the display was sparse and the next after the 10:03 only showed the destination, not the route. The further complication was that Three, the provider for Mike's phone, still did not have any data service - the outage had started some time yesterday, Fortunately Christine's is on a different network so we could book the tickets. The ticket office at the station was not manned this morning, either! Luckily a lady sitting next to Mike on the platform thought to look up his route and showed that the recommended option was to take the next train (actually a little earlier) into Birmingham Moor Street, walk to New Street and thence down to Alvechurch, </p><p>Of course, all trains today were extremely busy with limited standing room at times. As the phone network still had data outage, Mike was not able to display the QR code of his ticket but the train manager accepted the email. </p><p>This train was actually going to Stratford-on-Avon, on a long loop through Kidderminster, around Birmingham and then southwards. Just before we arrived at Smethwick Galton Bridge there was an announcement that suggested passengers for New Street could change here. A lot did! And there was a train ready and waiting at platform 4 on the lower level.</p><p>At last this meant not having to do the walk from Moor Street to New Street (which always seems to take longer than the five minutes officially allowed) and so there was time to pick up a warming cup of coffee.</p><p>The train to Alvechurch, the stop before the end of the line at Redditch, was on time and arrived as scheduled, just an hour later than the original plan. It could have been a lot worse.</p><p>Mike then drove back to the marina - the motorway was not busy, luckily as by the M5 the fog was thickening and the overhead signs warned drivers to slow down. Christine, meanwhile, had done a good job in making sure that what we needed to load into the car was ready for immediate collection. This was soon transferred before lunch. Then time to empty the last few drops of water in the tank (we had not taken on a full tank to avoid wasting more than we needed), empty the elsan and go through our pre-departure checklist.</p><p>We were away just a few minutes after 2, which is what we had hoped so that we could reach home whilst there was still daylight - sunset was just after 4. Again, traffic was moderate and not too much fog until we were about two miles from home. The fog bank, with a sharp 'edge' to it , was rather impressive.</p><p>When we left home on Wednesday we were still expecting not to be back until Sunday with at least one day of rain forecast. Since we had set the heating to Holiday and to come back on on Sunday, the house was really, really cold and it warmed up very slowly. We were very glad that our menu plan was to collect fish 'n chips from a local chippie - and boy, was it good!</p><p>We will need to return to the boat for some maintenance before the start of next season's cruising but w do not yet have a plan - just a growing list of things to attend to! The next fixed point on the agenda will be the boat painting, starting at the end of May 2024. </p>Mike Toddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00067557327430064111noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6239989273407700909.post-20362765830579827432023-12-01T17:10:00.005+00:002023-12-01T17:10:48.587+00:00Back to the Marina - at last!<p>Today's Canal : Worcester and Birmingham, Droitwich</p><p>After the coldest night yet - although tonight is forecast even colder - we awoke to find that the canal was covered with ice! What was this going to do to our plans - we hoped to be back on our marina mooring by sundown.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF78EN1sf3xqjRykreFPSj5os0HYDpy6kSKedfPomVCPjsePfOUPbzGBzAbw07lPSYlosIT_QiL9ZMhUuEgu_PAmkxio7Ho3cXFWVfG5QVm2TzXS_z03dwlawoZMDhL-jG_CYJ7qP0CBDqAGSulmPwFXhMvGh3MU_VzDcKAm0kIIkvd-Whw6AlnU0DabjY/s1000/dec01-a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF78EN1sf3xqjRykreFPSj5os0HYDpy6kSKedfPomVCPjsePfOUPbzGBzAbw07lPSYlosIT_QiL9ZMhUuEgu_PAmkxio7Ho3cXFWVfG5QVm2TzXS_z03dwlawoZMDhL-jG_CYJ7qP0CBDqAGSulmPwFXhMvGh3MU_VzDcKAm0kIIkvd-Whw6AlnU0DabjY/s320/dec01-a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQWaaOZfPftLimrLrimuP7-VTiSVDR5-RIRv1kmlX0-fu0-fOZfMQp_mCpUgs1UrN-_u9uYygRsQipef88R7cEqAiPBcqqKKmqvF6S8w9MVQHKFGNdIzNaMXb5aCethE8VbVsYrE4E-yKrulcpinGIESS04YSPLI78I5WGPcyUkGpYUfB55y4-jZcAZK2M/s1000/dec01-b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQWaaOZfPftLimrLrimuP7-VTiSVDR5-RIRv1kmlX0-fu0-fOZfMQp_mCpUgs1UrN-_u9uYygRsQipef88R7cEqAiPBcqqKKmqvF6S8w9MVQHKFGNdIzNaMXb5aCethE8VbVsYrE4E-yKrulcpinGIESS04YSPLI78I5WGPcyUkGpYUfB55y4-jZcAZK2M/s320/dec01-b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />A quick poke with a stick revealed that although it was extensive, the ice was only about 10 mm thick which we hoped would allow us to proceed.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-99L56ewfDzsA-e1RPlgfHDOezmhPX1uBQDi7_P1Xlih2a5mtfyVupNzBVrFuGOAgb_UtqGUpcjNDBKakcpmxl5RCbnbgfBJqiMwtVTHepnhkR1LNoHpm5h3MOuGJ3JOx5hEZvwD3DI8wgi1k7lX5WTE4Jvxmr1GPucN2hhlpHYDNafxpXzr_x6m5IDDg/s1000/dec01-c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-99L56ewfDzsA-e1RPlgfHDOezmhPX1uBQDi7_P1Xlih2a5mtfyVupNzBVrFuGOAgb_UtqGUpcjNDBKakcpmxl5RCbnbgfBJqiMwtVTHepnhkR1LNoHpm5h3MOuGJ3JOx5hEZvwD3DI8wgi1k7lX5WTE4Jvxmr1GPucN2hhlpHYDNafxpXzr_x6m5IDDg/s320/dec01-c.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />By the time that we were ready to leave, one of the boats that came down after us last night and moored a short distance ahead, had already left, so we assumed that progress was possible (unless it turned out to be a narrowboat shaped Tardis!) Casting off was interesting as the mooring ropes were frozen solid. Eventually we were on our way, accompanied by a gentle crunching of ice.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6XcsarQwTqnJ1d2QIO8yz7VDksY0kCN1K6mh1InxwW4eBD9CGEVWkg2RbsvEw3wijZBBWsjytxlplcpuzIlKSXNM4SuzKJT7z-PCOW-FwFo3H-qkPGTzrSm7xmjD934tLc6CT9j9GcVh7EwMXhGvcVDZvCScMCSLFaGva9hPZ6lM2E3k0JWczNc195T3-/s1000/dec01-d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="545" data-original-width="1000" height="174" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6XcsarQwTqnJ1d2QIO8yz7VDksY0kCN1K6mh1InxwW4eBD9CGEVWkg2RbsvEw3wijZBBWsjytxlplcpuzIlKSXNM4SuzKJT7z-PCOW-FwFo3H-qkPGTzrSm7xmjD934tLc6CT9j9GcVh7EwMXhGvcVDZvCScMCSLFaGva9hPZ6lM2E3k0JWczNc195T3-/s320/dec01-d.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />It was only a short distance around the corner to the start of the Stoke Locks - with a very wintry look. We knew that we would have to be especially vigilant working around the locks, to avoid slipping. As another boat was just ahead of us, finding all them empty and set against us was a no-brainer.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvKPEiv3EHyu3L_ispxXZXnxNhs6gs8WBNf4E4PI4BKAfrbwOmEBc9Ba0bbwhZP75FX30cfvcLz1JBPSHBD1-vfYOsSBd06l3czoDWMgx42DGRv87ViEw6cP5dI68i-_rviJC1JodbsPENyvIe1hEReSUlEMyzt5UfdvSPOQqBsjxbRCiShs_FBDrEFm2A/s1000/dec01-e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvKPEiv3EHyu3L_ispxXZXnxNhs6gs8WBNf4E4PI4BKAfrbwOmEBc9Ba0bbwhZP75FX30cfvcLz1JBPSHBD1-vfYOsSBd06l3czoDWMgx42DGRv87ViEw6cP5dI68i-_rviJC1JodbsPENyvIe1hEReSUlEMyzt5UfdvSPOQqBsjxbRCiShs_FBDrEFm2A/s320/dec01-e.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />At this time of the year, with the sun low in the sky, parts of the landscape in sunshine are brilliant bit strong shadows are cast elsewhere.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXHi7I7-VPBm7WIZceoaCGdAmwiwYtUOaSbLkpjJmoEgIAe0hR_I6xyscLulGInHkbGNikBsNHZSjXnWxbV1JiSxMXb0FVGJeu1zr53RvaTaS2glEQyphk6sYUeUkr3Pdr8F88-vyvbOP5iNRzkGdwGNf6qUR25114lrgBYkkDYrff96D39hfBnE3P-ceR/s1000/dec01-f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXHi7I7-VPBm7WIZceoaCGdAmwiwYtUOaSbLkpjJmoEgIAe0hR_I6xyscLulGInHkbGNikBsNHZSjXnWxbV1JiSxMXb0FVGJeu1zr53RvaTaS2glEQyphk6sYUeUkr3Pdr8F88-vyvbOP5iNRzkGdwGNf6qUR25114lrgBYkkDYrff96D39hfBnE3P-ceR/s320/dec01-f.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Another wintry landscape. really quite picturesque.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1RodidZxxX-nyqxhrQCL_pFY-VpwUfUXgx2IHUrNuV0-1toSw1iGMbbzie7bcH8r_BdzhgFlQ_Fs0xq8oDTvFdX3lEobHcXEWKd9ai2pq6kfsDA7sh06f4b_FlhggcL7ax23kyXW7moKVosq0yF4IHLaAKQNjJEviLZGuJ1cBZhi81N60zZAlclAm6oQs/s1000/dec01-g.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="551" data-original-width="1000" height="176" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1RodidZxxX-nyqxhrQCL_pFY-VpwUfUXgx2IHUrNuV0-1toSw1iGMbbzie7bcH8r_BdzhgFlQ_Fs0xq8oDTvFdX3lEobHcXEWKd9ai2pq6kfsDA7sh06f4b_FlhggcL7ax23kyXW7moKVosq0yF4IHLaAKQNjJEviLZGuJ1cBZhi81N60zZAlclAm6oQs/s320/dec01-g.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Just above one lock, the ice was right across as these ducks discovered. However, there were enough of them that they soon started to sink and they found a gap where they could paddle away.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAFpVRSwO17wrdDLGQFbSUC74hmHn1voBVhevTqsqjym3N2RN0F4ZKpTRgMzblurHkchp-SgbsJrSYsYbGbHdufWrvvJMsDTbkmv96KRm8KiTCTw9LEtnvX_5CJWbbOKmFI78dq9JyJ0YA-waHHYVIwZuq-s255gNxAwv_e4zCDhZuFWYY3EBGqs-o_yc6/s1000/dec01-h.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="551" data-original-width="1000" height="176" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAFpVRSwO17wrdDLGQFbSUC74hmHn1voBVhevTqsqjym3N2RN0F4ZKpTRgMzblurHkchp-SgbsJrSYsYbGbHdufWrvvJMsDTbkmv96KRm8KiTCTw9LEtnvX_5CJWbbOKmFI78dq9JyJ0YA-waHHYVIwZuq-s255gNxAwv_e4zCDhZuFWYY3EBGqs-o_yc6/s320/dec01-h.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />At the last Astwood lock we caught up with the boat ahead and discovered that they too were heading for the same marina.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4khyphenhyphenP6ub-72Qrt6zKmMtGBEz7vVoavwo8YL6OoWoOjmQ8z7SGlbtOR3FRkbryZx3DynVyhs50W1b_enHXmAiTc5szzb-qh-YyJcpUO1CE3Uel_ukHOPWU8QcnM-Dr4iS3Yv0xoWeJK-7mXbh6BUD1sFOWd0nrz9pd0SRq026DBVII1KuibKVvs4-_fYhz/s1000/dec01-i.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="592" data-original-width="1000" height="189" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4khyphenhyphenP6ub-72Qrt6zKmMtGBEz7vVoavwo8YL6OoWoOjmQ8z7SGlbtOR3FRkbryZx3DynVyhs50W1b_enHXmAiTc5szzb-qh-YyJcpUO1CE3Uel_ukHOPWU8QcnM-Dr4iS3Yv0xoWeJK-7mXbh6BUD1sFOWd0nrz9pd0SRq026DBVII1KuibKVvs4-_fYhz/s320/dec01-i.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The pound below the Atwood flight was long enough to serve up mugs of soup and chunks of bread to eat 'on the go'. It was already 2 o'clock where we turned onto the Droitwich canal at Hanbury so we needed to press on if we were to be tied up in daylight.<p></p><p>Just after we arrived at hanbury Top Lock another boat arrived, having come up from Worcester after yesterday an 'interesting' run up the<span> Severn from Tewkesbury. They too were heading for the marina.</span></p><p><span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8yedGG8mF-LoV1K8P3qe0vvLcsFM4-oMW1FMlG__0NdC5WtaPCd2SRErZo4YWwurYOp67egCSNWUC9WR2uhh3DzLc_z59L40OSr8cbFI5nvEwdrDKY7tSnDdfjq7B1PYwKunocMCYCFKQEc3caCco14X0M6aQL_DG7S3_NX6uuMqMmmaC-aiOJFZvCasl/s1000/dec01-j.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="569" data-original-width="1000" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8yedGG8mF-LoV1K8P3qe0vvLcsFM4-oMW1FMlG__0NdC5WtaPCd2SRErZo4YWwurYOp67egCSNWUC9WR2uhh3DzLc_z59L40OSr8cbFI5nvEwdrDKY7tSnDdfjq7B1PYwKunocMCYCFKQEc3caCco14X0M6aQL_DG7S3_NX6uuMqMmmaC-aiOJFZvCasl/s320/dec01-j.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The marina did not have much ice - we called at the service wharf first to fill up with fuel and to buy an electricity card. Then, with the sun setting fast, we cruised across the marina to our berth - no wind so it was somewhat easier than it can be to reverse into our slot.<p></p><p><span>We hooked up to the electric and stoked up the fire to ward off what promises to be a very cold night. Mike booked train tickers and a taxi for the morning so that he an collect the car. Despite the strikes, some trains are still running - we hope!</span></p><p><span>It has certainly been an eventful year of boating and it is rather later than 'normal' that we return to a winter mooring in December. Despite the cold, we have enjoyed these last three days with some quite special views.</span></p><p>4.7 Miles - 15 Locks </p>Mike Toddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00067557327430064111noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6239989273407700909.post-89522505239618507672023-11-30T17:45:00.005+00:002023-11-30T17:45:58.191+00:00Tardebigge<p>Today's Canal : Worcester and Birmingham</p><p>We awoke knowing exactly what we had to do today: 29 locks to the bottom of the Tardebigge flight! Not only is this the longest flight on the system (30 including the Top Lock which we did yesterday) but does not, except perhaps in an emergency, have anywhere to stop overnight between the next to top and the bottom locks.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd54byd-xHl9FgvT8topz7sPbV39Y5tL7PyN5sz1NhStnJrUTsFm1VQdkWo6gsBzLVfl4VcqAFd1nOr8NaM3SRSHZnNGmpBmxVKc0-YVk-3ZvxKR-j3NwFgVg3929IULadfFoTHRc-9xGxsRulplpoUCqlU0pWzLDg0LCKioUBtqk7ku5Zikek-A4tOBMh/s1000/nov30-a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd54byd-xHl9FgvT8topz7sPbV39Y5tL7PyN5sz1NhStnJrUTsFm1VQdkWo6gsBzLVfl4VcqAFd1nOr8NaM3SRSHZnNGmpBmxVKc0-YVk-3ZvxKR-j3NwFgVg3929IULadfFoTHRc-9xGxsRulplpoUCqlU0pWzLDg0LCKioUBtqk7ku5Zikek-A4tOBMh/s320/nov30-a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />It was was wonderful, bright autumnal - well wintery - day with cloudless skies throughout. It was also pretty chilly, there was a coating of frost and our ropes were quite solid. We wrapped with as many layers as we cold manage - almost Michelin Man! - gloves, scarf and wooly hats.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA22Jc6XQZba3LNsUfEW6Vp1xeao8X3vF98h_yYB71n15fiPEWsSCDUauL7M-pNCJvnO9mrIp1onGNDQ5Q6bktVzV-4nO4k0r4GsjWT0fQ6tWtJxknH14DZNOdajuT-fn3AlzwxYW7Xrpigkc34QDWELyfXiBFlMAI6GS-PSwXhULB7xFupHc8O6rV4VWq/s1000/nov30-b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA22Jc6XQZba3LNsUfEW6Vp1xeao8X3vF98h_yYB71n15fiPEWsSCDUauL7M-pNCJvnO9mrIp1onGNDQ5Q6bktVzV-4nO4k0r4GsjWT0fQ6tWtJxknH14DZNOdajuT-fn3AlzwxYW7Xrpigkc34QDWELyfXiBFlMAI6GS-PSwXhULB7xFupHc8O6rV4VWq/s320/nov30-b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />We also needed to be especially careful around the locks as it was slippery in places. The first lock was full, with the gate open but this was rarely the case and all but six of the locks were empty, needing to be filled before we could start down them.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjez_YySf0ZCGMoHPUh2FskulTT3sPIs9w8KO_AlIA6l9a-xZwDHoW4Il60dvbLAhhKo865CCianMfGsBZ-mDI8sEPIxkB6W3kmdSBv2PtRzUCIiwrWMna5fvHlfDyMhiKccg5t_2Pch9lBZixZA0b9wqbuAtvuhdIO0yjCT3d_nBkvk9ZOtpsa1nsBsHPw/s1000/nov30-c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="665" data-original-width="1000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjez_YySf0ZCGMoHPUh2FskulTT3sPIs9w8KO_AlIA6l9a-xZwDHoW4Il60dvbLAhhKo865CCianMfGsBZ-mDI8sEPIxkB6W3kmdSBv2PtRzUCIiwrWMna5fvHlfDyMhiKccg5t_2Pch9lBZixZA0b9wqbuAtvuhdIO0yjCT3d_nBkvk9ZOtpsa1nsBsHPw/s320/nov30-c.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Some of the locks in the flighty, by by no means all of them - have their number carved into a wingwall below the lock, as well as having the usual cast metal place on the balance beams.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYh0tIRm9egqGKG4AMmMkwRk5x5vBIP4SKFZE6w4xHs013nvP9bi8NHt58mofAshyKxNJw6ZVcirzPh-cgZ7tfsE5HfkNQEGl6hcHHQ2Na2ks-j9D_SEAjVm_882Wc7UT760rE0EVsmZd_UcmOzUqBabk8d9-vlz4FYYoPyaxctz1KP9ish2VkljItT_E9/s1000/nov30-d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYh0tIRm9egqGKG4AMmMkwRk5x5vBIP4SKFZE6w4xHs013nvP9bi8NHt58mofAshyKxNJw6ZVcirzPh-cgZ7tfsE5HfkNQEGl6hcHHQ2Na2ks-j9D_SEAjVm_882Wc7UT760rE0EVsmZd_UcmOzUqBabk8d9-vlz4FYYoPyaxctz1KP9ish2VkljItT_E9/s320/nov30-d.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Tardebigge Reservoir was much fuller than we have sometimes seen it but kit could perhaps still take a bit more to be sure of lasting through next summer.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX0qeeb1rqDs6q3HV9SKv0yVdGSBW0yUOsr9ftqAgWt4Xcz7WT1jGZ0NKsc9dnY66IGmr_yYPLLuRgmdY0gBB37-9oN8oG-Wln14JQtxyB-mXnFCuDKh3TFoW6Vfv076SsWGLnAq9d2n12Rl-5F8Aae_LAf9NPvh9yapqb1P5X5L3ysF7kh0-bOV9Y6C4E/s1000/nov30-e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="638" data-original-width="1000" height="204" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX0qeeb1rqDs6q3HV9SKv0yVdGSBW0yUOsr9ftqAgWt4Xcz7WT1jGZ0NKsc9dnY66IGmr_yYPLLuRgmdY0gBB37-9oN8oG-Wln14JQtxyB-mXnFCuDKh3TFoW6Vfv076SsWGLnAq9d2n12Rl-5F8Aae_LAf9NPvh9yapqb1P5X5L3ysF7kh0-bOV9Y6C4E/s320/nov30-e.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Someone may have been magnet fishing (but perhaps just fishing if it was made of aluminium) or was this left behind by the volunteer lock keepers, now stood down until the start of the 2024 season.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCWLo2FkmQnJp_p8MZPNUoXcAJInLprXgfqRIJteMXvpggtN-7-Bv5pdHPboH07MGYDnVgK05W-3ae1eoOjHN3i0tZzDy0XeWhhUZ-9J0GthHtXAiIlan7-NQZJ3lpU2eMLxzQmed-o37NdunYoupNra1z_h37LAz8OmzWE-sSPy5n5khZBXLktzON1RzL/s1000/nov30-f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCWLo2FkmQnJp_p8MZPNUoXcAJInLprXgfqRIJteMXvpggtN-7-Bv5pdHPboH07MGYDnVgK05W-3ae1eoOjHN3i0tZzDy0XeWhhUZ-9J0GthHtXAiIlan7-NQZJ3lpU2eMLxzQmed-o37NdunYoupNra1z_h37LAz8OmzWE-sSPy5n5khZBXLktzON1RzL/s320/nov30-f.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />In some ways, at this time of the year the trees and bushes are more interesting as they show their structure, which during the summer is hidden under their cloak of leaves.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7I6WhgPQpIChsqcbhqLSmOy69V-2Ss-mbIx2l31wg4XFNDXoGE-SHP9dtyiAS-Efa_OL5OaeH9UsKldJO4NwotohNtkT68fzaAUcQa441KgNXDqQyytiwmYoILKtw_H_d31pN1GQOyxVGKG_Rs7FHJrgfs0816-uJxFyMo1f1GOolMixHSm6etUGju1kj/s1000/nov30-g.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="625" data-original-width="1000" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7I6WhgPQpIChsqcbhqLSmOy69V-2Ss-mbIx2l31wg4XFNDXoGE-SHP9dtyiAS-Efa_OL5OaeH9UsKldJO4NwotohNtkT68fzaAUcQa441KgNXDqQyytiwmYoILKtw_H_d31pN1GQOyxVGKG_Rs7FHJrgfs0816-uJxFyMo1f1GOolMixHSm6etUGju1kj/s320/nov30-g.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The house with the aerials is an obligatory picture, never looking better with the almost cloudless blue sky in the background.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXt0-KQuNosa46rzrAjYiHSviOfzXYh3rlxeDToMD5BGkxWJW8Bd2UcHoLQt7Ui1rnVOrEfcRAcfiZtK-Z_lwXkVSFky8ptzajGwoVyewKSDHsZ6jayobYmYfAU6l6iOZRDFHlJI0NjwPNbBCoJEj7GOoK1dx9Xm3h6s8lLyMCpmISuPiJCrnS_C0mgSfU/s1000/nov30-h.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="535" data-original-width="1000" height="171" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXt0-KQuNosa46rzrAjYiHSviOfzXYh3rlxeDToMD5BGkxWJW8Bd2UcHoLQt7Ui1rnVOrEfcRAcfiZtK-Z_lwXkVSFky8ptzajGwoVyewKSDHsZ6jayobYmYfAU6l6iOZRDFHlJI0NjwPNbBCoJEj7GOoK1dx9Xm3h6s8lLyMCpmISuPiJCrnS_C0mgSfU/s320/nov30-h.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Eventually the end was close and at the penultimate lock we could see how close it was to sunset with the long, low light and shadow.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMdJ7Yy2LPWJFXrXd7vpTujTQlKSJ4WmfGOeO9M9YsQkbJq8sQGR110oaLsI9HbVSYeee0NnAZ0b69R6O5Z4hm7oDKl2yf_7PN54tHtNT-Fsg1EabHZ3v1q0fl5c-cCCwAESz2Z2iRF_gwn3mbl9Zi83pYTn51w9c7VH_pFMY8XVvXGiQ6wJ2eHkrFNG72/s1000/nov30-i.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="635" data-original-width="1000" height="203" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMdJ7Yy2LPWJFXrXd7vpTujTQlKSJ4WmfGOeO9M9YsQkbJq8sQGR110oaLsI9HbVSYeee0NnAZ0b69R6O5Z4hm7oDKl2yf_7PN54tHtNT-Fsg1EabHZ3v1q0fl5c-cCCwAESz2Z2iRF_gwn3mbl9Zi83pYTn51w9c7VH_pFMY8XVvXGiQ6wJ2eHkrFNG72/s320/nov30-i.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />And the bottom lock now appeared - hooray we might make it before sunset.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJYykPPGqhuoOxF24VLLO2u8HCvO_bRm6R1gDq9FzMeoK5S-XwPyXPMm7R6dNn4LZht3MxjjHfXIPPI5lXfXdbSl3_0zMg_ouW3AgpstbX-DL0vEFIKX3GYMKRJ2edjFF4NJmddyJ0pR-vn35EtkkX7UwNlJzxeqgws2V1d25zq65dfsglWn21RbDd_Eom/s1000/nov30-l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="559" data-original-width="1000" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJYykPPGqhuoOxF24VLLO2u8HCvO_bRm6R1gDq9FzMeoK5S-XwPyXPMm7R6dNn4LZht3MxjjHfXIPPI5lXfXdbSl3_0zMg_ouW3AgpstbX-DL0vEFIKX3GYMKRJ2edjFF4NJmddyJ0pR-vn35EtkkX7UwNlJzxeqgws2V1d25zq65dfsglWn21RbDd_Eom/s320/nov30-l.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Just!<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVaiackVPgK96TAyDW6FLz4utA8-x7fkCPnP0w057LPT-4WtwYZa0bF8DTnx2BvnTcZBtR0jm-YmhFDM4BYlyLTkWnqVNaIs3tIiqXrLuJ7Y_kNFKWs1gsed1q49XAMQITbDgzINfdzXYefSxuqSR0pniQiEg5Wj6iDpKA1FNMD7PlCzZ4MN1QzFqSLpiD/s1000/nov30-j.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="559" data-original-width="1000" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVaiackVPgK96TAyDW6FLz4utA8-x7fkCPnP0w057LPT-4WtwYZa0bF8DTnx2BvnTcZBtR0jm-YmhFDM4BYlyLTkWnqVNaIs3tIiqXrLuJ7Y_kNFKWs1gsed1q49XAMQITbDgzINfdzXYefSxuqSR0pniQiEg5Wj6iDpKA1FNMD7PlCzZ4MN1QzFqSLpiD/s320/nov30-j.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">i</div><br />So, here we are at the Bottom Lock. Last year we came down in 6 hours 13 minutes - but 6 weeks earlier, well before the clocks went back and a much later sunset. (We did make it up in 4 hrs 38 minutes in April but we had a lot of help from a large gang of volunteers. You only have to save just a bit on each lock to make a real difference overall) And this time? 6 hours 47 minutes which we though not bad given how so many were against us and that we did not encounter a single boat coming up.<p></p><p>Needless to say we moored immediately after exiting the last lock. To our surprise two more boats arrived down a little later, the second by now in the dark.</p><p>2.4 Miles - 29 Locks</p>Mike Toddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00067557327430064111noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6239989273407700909.post-4105646651121371002023-11-29T17:59:00.006+00:002023-11-29T19:10:10.244+00:00Leaving Withybed Moorings<p>Today's Canal : Worcester and Birmingham</p><p>After a long wait whilst the land slip was being repaired just south of Shortwood Tunnel, eventually at the end of last week it was announced that navigation would resume at the end of last week. Given the scale of the task, that does seem to be good progress and a bot faster than originally suggested. However, we could not leave instantly (!) as Christine had an appointment at Salisbury for a routine ear check on Tuesday afternoon.</p><p>That meant the the earliest departure would could manage was 9 am today although we did as much as possible of the packing and car loading yesterday. We were away as planned and had a good run up to Swindon, across to the M5 and thence to Alvechurch. We stopped first at the bridge by Alvechurch Marina and the railway station, just to check on mooring space for unloading. Just as well we did check as there was no room at all! Most of the visitor mooring was taken up by pans that CaRT had been using to remove the landslip spoil.</p><p>At Withybed we loaded up a trolley and a wheelbarrow, about three quarters of what we needed to unload, and walked around to where our boat had been moored - right at the far side! All seemed to be well although the credit on the electricity had expired, but going by the State of Charge it must have been very recent.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv6tsuHAUHlsYbosGqwcjWkKoJFvK-Mg7fNFwZWYWfXMWzNfzDcoTqZQ5lX4Pf76gUjF2tBluaU3w6QIuxVMmPI44_p38hhDZRrv8HjtoY6facFyWg_hVYeo38k0UfJZ2LpAHF8X8CTnA9jdT-y2vsmCvn49IUuW7NNpAZnk-DuW4A89V512LgNCeiIZsI/s1000/nov29-m.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv6tsuHAUHlsYbosGqwcjWkKoJFvK-Mg7fNFwZWYWfXMWzNfzDcoTqZQ5lX4Pf76gUjF2tBluaU3w6QIuxVMmPI44_p38hhDZRrv8HjtoY6facFyWg_hVYeo38k0UfJZ2LpAHF8X8CTnA9jdT-y2vsmCvn49IUuW7NNpAZnk-DuW4A89V512LgNCeiIZsI/s320/nov29-m.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />By midday we were able to cast off and cruise across to the service wharf to add a bit of fuel to our tank as well as to retrieve out boat keys - the annual RCR service had been done whilst we were away. Both marinas were very helpful and pleasant, getting us out of our difficulty with having to leave the boat and return home. Thanks everyone and we recommend them both for their service.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie63dM82FIzax6w6KPOXsEVUEZ5xrLZtn170s8m7hzDfDIHLVnYa9X6h4dlGKY3sHmZNGvM9bgbL25Qec-WEWCKgnOqaPOKR2PsBq5qHfrlcYO8zqnEm8EiyhUoTMoOHH5sEirzUhgIp9locQJDJEuTA4Ck6v76L3JhqEzl1dOiPiKWYsn58vHeEeXpp91/s1000/nov29-a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie63dM82FIzax6w6KPOXsEVUEZ5xrLZtn170s8m7hzDfDIHLVnYa9X6h4dlGKY3sHmZNGvM9bgbL25Qec-WEWCKgnOqaPOKR2PsBq5qHfrlcYO8zqnEm8EiyhUoTMoOHH5sEirzUhgIp9locQJDJEuTA4Ck6v76L3JhqEzl1dOiPiKWYsn58vHeEeXpp91/s320/nov29-a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSz_msNGUACJ8u4hA00YgWd4aEnALTb8X6H8XAQQADJIcQm0Or1trFhUcsRFTQUDV6lYBecgwyheF_vowqdo7q8PV22Nk4ReQIJuqFwVws-2ML-tkb0-_zbAkqJ3mbyTp8cBKLtJmcmeOWR-XimusGrJY_L3NsjmAsoNHlTPysZqBPapShHLXWk_NlHaBN/s1000/nov29-b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSz_msNGUACJ8u4hA00YgWd4aEnALTb8X6H8XAQQADJIcQm0Or1trFhUcsRFTQUDV6lYBecgwyheF_vowqdo7q8PV22Nk4ReQIJuqFwVws-2ML-tkb0-_zbAkqJ3mbyTp8cBKLtJmcmeOWR-XimusGrJY_L3NsjmAsoNHlTPysZqBPapShHLXWk_NlHaBN/s320/nov29-b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Finally we were able to commence the remaining part of our 'Back to Base' trip that had been frustrated by the land slip. It was a bright and sunny day even if, when out of the sun, it was really rather chilly. It is definitely turning into winter. <p></p><p>Christine drove the car to the station car park so that Mike can come back by train from Droitwich to collect it at the end of this trip. Mike picked her up at Bridge 69, close to the station.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8P1Z50Gr8tMuJbXMHbZSlTUt8gpR1GXafWgjIKEsHcU00VBF3FWfWHA-x61OjfpEroT_P5449T6cp2mk9oSbfEwFHm2aFAPoZ1sZiLexs1WsoRvNSq4Rz24ojh4dLRZdjgteezLW_zuMK1LD6uE3tMeYA86iA-_-0CRDsW8Ee9uZzBf_UbXYcSJ_B8DZq/s1000/nov29-c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="563" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8P1Z50Gr8tMuJbXMHbZSlTUt8gpR1GXafWgjIKEsHcU00VBF3FWfWHA-x61OjfpEroT_P5449T6cp2mk9oSbfEwFHm2aFAPoZ1sZiLexs1WsoRvNSq4Rz24ojh4dLRZdjgteezLW_zuMK1LD6uE3tMeYA86iA-_-0CRDsW8Ee9uZzBf_UbXYcSJ_B8DZq/s320/nov29-c.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />ABC are continuing to update their fleet with several new boats nearing completion. Some already named and indicate that they are for Kings Orchard but others are still to be sign written.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEhOAnPlkDZTOfiOqds7yGK-cGOhNrxUhjqvvjCuP64JfgWd9uDkWUgaZ32wm37qcUZ2F4R87jZLTpQ5lFYsJo8xeLZ-G5c7vNnbSUWlE_fXr44pqz8gwh2VGFNYiRbksw36lxkagbvjsgjpCd2OO5zoC0IQ_3I0u2TJDeMLOFMyRObgjzSziCXRme0kt2/s1000/nov29-d.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEhOAnPlkDZTOfiOqds7yGK-cGOhNrxUhjqvvjCuP64JfgWd9uDkWUgaZ32wm37qcUZ2F4R87jZLTpQ5lFYsJo8xeLZ-G5c7vNnbSUWlE_fXr44pqz8gwh2VGFNYiRbksw36lxkagbvjsgjpCd2OO5zoC0IQ_3I0u2TJDeMLOFMyRObgjzSziCXRme0kt2/s320/nov29-d.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkZOYbemOHvnC08cq4ZYcd_HkPb4URCtX5Qqz2ilQIDCpFHREn2cHsyxd9PUXEZ0He5u5_9BeE97CTDSumpOKm2M_mOKt8QH4xsnWWwQR-gUy1cEJZy3WeSzoDW6E3SsmsTEul-ipi4rCPUCDKIfzsdtihBSha2FtlvC__FnRR1NKlhcSUMMY7tL3m0jGd/s1000/nov29-k.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkZOYbemOHvnC08cq4ZYcd_HkPb4URCtX5Qqz2ilQIDCpFHREn2cHsyxd9PUXEZ0He5u5_9BeE97CTDSumpOKm2M_mOKt8QH4xsnWWwQR-gUy1cEJZy3WeSzoDW6E3SsmsTEul-ipi4rCPUCDKIfzsdtihBSha2FtlvC__FnRR1NKlhcSUMMY7tL3m0jGd/s320/nov29-k.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />About 20 minutes later the entrance to Shortwood Tunnel came into sight. From this end we could not yet see any sign of the repairs.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrUXfYX7wqoRrnSXMbywsvpQhHzS0QT5vTi5EPX5ZW8oEPoOvs3cdzAQHoGkYd7tuUa3IeFqZ_qeuHsCcsPyoqv3_qq4bcSX9GJwRMP6yvbhk0v5hfe0gh3TW4okNSpUpw58t3PLnci-Ke6FajjCZ-jErO0JO5C9ml7YQsEXlVyH5LO513ozad8renUOK8/s1000/nov29-e.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrUXfYX7wqoRrnSXMbywsvpQhHzS0QT5vTi5EPX5ZW8oEPoOvs3cdzAQHoGkYd7tuUa3IeFqZ_qeuHsCcsPyoqv3_qq4bcSX9GJwRMP6yvbhk0v5hfe0gh3TW4okNSpUpw58t3PLnci-Ke6FajjCZ-jErO0JO5C9ml7YQsEXlVyH5LO513ozad8renUOK8/s320/nov29-e.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSnzexiy7tY4b4HvzTnIJUWAsiuSl3ZHrCtJgC2HOdURY1x6SjaMqTkCM6ZR3x37kaxul7gqC_Lp7vdYoslfhtfICH9-GPVsp8uWGVfBTHfV8ZR5eWUkD1DhAdqy8SFaUgANVMTSKR7mR7QGJ-mHD-uDUFINCSutmcMMHxkPxd4DxiPiekreFlgfSb6V1j/s1000/nov29-f.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSnzexiy7tY4b4HvzTnIJUWAsiuSl3ZHrCtJgC2HOdURY1x6SjaMqTkCM6ZR3x37kaxul7gqC_Lp7vdYoslfhtfICH9-GPVsp8uWGVfBTHfV8ZR5eWUkD1DhAdqy8SFaUgANVMTSKR7mR7QGJ-mHD-uDUFINCSutmcMMHxkPxd4DxiPiekreFlgfSb6V1j/s320/nov29-f.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOHbtjlstAjYTtvrFn7-SwERi5NC0vo2EXO0Z8c0iTvNoadfknBZcr5LqG5CogUhUnKLqvQi280hIMz46w8InY0sWcSMuUVTlwWqzXja8IJu0dEfHbq5zrSTxxsa6O0cyj6YsHtM9B29eftPLC0liPWCciWziatpqmzDHVx7KRNGwBBZvh_dsXubV8U3wH/s1000/nov29-g.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOHbtjlstAjYTtvrFn7-SwERi5NC0vo2EXO0Z8c0iTvNoadfknBZcr5LqG5CogUhUnKLqvQi280hIMz46w8InY0sWcSMuUVTlwWqzXja8IJu0dEfHbq5zrSTxxsa6O0cyj6YsHtM9B29eftPLC0liPWCciWziatpqmzDHVx7KRNGwBBZvh_dsXubV8U3wH/s320/nov29-g.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw92vX4pLL_fu4StbLqqFb4d1OLH6F5HkYmMYxUqqINlH4LM4wYWz7yQqf5MP4p0S2bkPXTiBhGj6MrDDKQLq9SqA4zVxEtrIoXcWhvLTNLR6Jl5XwnR85A8LU6WuJx_j4LOwx_lVqCZ13DGB7QAQHMipCx3y2MORpQFqBiJQm_Nl8k2Iot_Mdc29ILi4-/s1000/nov29-l.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="491" data-original-width="1000" height="157" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw92vX4pLL_fu4StbLqqFb4d1OLH6F5HkYmMYxUqqINlH4LM4wYWz7yQqf5MP4p0S2bkPXTiBhGj6MrDDKQLq9SqA4zVxEtrIoXcWhvLTNLR6Jl5XwnR85A8LU6WuJx_j4LOwx_lVqCZ13DGB7QAQHMipCx3y2MORpQFqBiJQm_Nl8k2Iot_Mdc29ILi4-/s320/nov29-l.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />However as soon as we emerged back into daylight we could see what has been behind our delay. As we understand it, trees on the steep bank to the tunnel portal were loosened by storm conditions and then excess surface water running down the towpath cause the land to slip into the canal. CaRT (with their contractors) have removed all of the spoil from the canal and re-opened the navigation. Obviously this was a priority but it seems that they have yet to come up with a plan for the bank, For the time being, large bags (of aggregate?) have helped to stabilise the bank but as yet the towpath remains unusable. The emergency drainage has been left in place to help prevent further damage from any more winter storms.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBNdt29nZy8ZGL6cxpxWpwySfDNLFOfnuP5569jHLn85aoaZujSMvi6vNc2o2PY_HM-DTBzUauIfiwd-mvKNcPhWfKbhbRT6UnQHO4qFA0NN9g2grsXBMGzBC7YXMcYHLeYMJkqwl0WO7ela7_ePvJkqN4pnFQ702HPKiamrwBVTxv93ArpCzqKPl2DDq5/s1000/nov29-h.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBNdt29nZy8ZGL6cxpxWpwySfDNLFOfnuP5569jHLn85aoaZujSMvi6vNc2o2PY_HM-DTBzUauIfiwd-mvKNcPhWfKbhbRT6UnQHO4qFA0NN9g2grsXBMGzBC7YXMcYHLeYMJkqwl0WO7ela7_ePvJkqN4pnFQ702HPKiamrwBVTxv93ArpCzqKPl2DDq5/s320/nov29-h.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />We continued on towards Tardebigge with yet another tunnel to transit. It was still very sunny but we paused on the lock landing for Tardebigge Top Lock just long enough to have a quick, but late, lunch.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn2IVdOpOTcgDkKjWCgux8NBBKLGIXrfppc2Amm6vp13DfQcfIT8QAQhRypA0f4b4cYV1c_T7IWZvdwd6JWpqiwJGzT3kpkpTjnZonLGEhkiu2rKOiyT5LCjv9ygkK1DvggZXkuqnDOF3NpPnEUG-xw9X015jR1t7hdl4ZkfoYtuxPjEK5RXM2lz4DHqUB/s1000/nov29-i.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="613" data-original-width="1000" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn2IVdOpOTcgDkKjWCgux8NBBKLGIXrfppc2Amm6vp13DfQcfIT8QAQhRypA0f4b4cYV1c_T7IWZvdwd6JWpqiwJGzT3kpkpTjnZonLGEhkiu2rKOiyT5LCjv9ygkK1DvggZXkuqnDOF3NpPnEUG-xw9X015jR1t7hdl4ZkfoYtuxPjEK5RXM2lz4DHqUB/s320/nov29-i.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioBcgxNVZ2uZ6oAu039yG6hVi8DyxThrIk7-0Z4wYDiScqmalooTtjYMcWOyTT1kMNCo9bRP7tOhh5BMXdl5quo9QkPl_PTSsirCUyAeQ8f0K0B3pkaNN-wnYtXYLJrt_KvmUjROQ_aRszQiXRzgUK_vfLTvf3awRjK5WYl0OoLHXJRqf2jIAp6lTnnFdH/s1000/nov29-j.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioBcgxNVZ2uZ6oAu039yG6hVi8DyxThrIk7-0Z4wYDiScqmalooTtjYMcWOyTT1kMNCo9bRP7tOhh5BMXdl5quo9QkPl_PTSsirCUyAeQ8f0K0B3pkaNN-wnYtXYLJrt_KvmUjROQ_aRszQiXRzgUK_vfLTvf3awRjK5WYl0OoLHXJRqf2jIAp6lTnnFdH/s320/nov29-j.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Still only a bit after 2.30 but the temperature was dropping quickly so we dropped down the lock to the visitor moorings in the pound below. These have rings to tie up to (those above the lock do not) and also this will give us a little bit more time to reach the bottom of the flight before dark tomorrow - sunset is now just before 4.<p></p><p>3.5 Miles - 1 Lock</p>Mike Toddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00067557327430064111noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6239989273407700909.post-21946556480995281612023-11-06T17:43:00.002+00:002023-11-08T10:51:15.634+00:00Moving Mooring<p>Now that we have the estimate for the length of time to clear the Shortwood landslip, we can make further temporary arrangements for the boat. Alvechurch have been very supportive - they are now not only storing their own fleet for the winter but also a number for other places whose hire boats have not been able to make it home. At the outset they could only promise a couple of weeks. They could have stretched it a little but we needed to sort something for the duration.</p><p>Withybed Moorings is a small marina about half a mile away and they had just one space available, a month at a time. So, we have taken that, initially for a month and then we can see how CaRT are progressing and whether they have a clearer estimate for re-opening navigation.</p><p>We planned to drive up on Thursday but were put off by the forecast conditions from Storm Ciaran. Driving on a motorway with lots of spray is not our idea of fun! Fortunately we could go on Friday instead and the drive up was actually quite pleasant.</p><p>We settled our account with Alvechurch and then Christine set off with the car, hoping to establish where we were to moor before Mike arrived. In the event, Mike did not take long and the marina person was down at the entrance to lift the footbridge when he arrived.</p><p>Everything went well and Mike even managed to reverse onto the mooring without touching the sides! (Not even the boat alongside) We did not have much to unload which was fortunate as it is quite a walk and the trolleys were all at the car park.</p><p>The journey home was uneventful - the first part was in pleasant weather but by the time we passed Swindon promised rain turned up and stayed with us for the rest of the journey.</p>Mike Toddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00067557327430064111noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6239989273407700909.post-57510361899764519322023-10-23T17:43:00.000+01:002023-10-23T17:43:02.681+01:00Back Home<p> An update - might add a photo later</p><p>Later on Friday, after we had posted blog, it became apparent that the blockage is serious and not likely to be cleared quickly. Indeed, CaRT did not promise an update until after the weekend - still nothing on the Stoppage list (end Monday).</p><p>The location is quite remote with no nearby road access. just outside the south western tunnel portal. Unless a repair can be effected by boat (which we suspect is unlikely) then an access agreement with the adjacent landowner is going to be needed. If it is a major landslip and not just a tree fall, then it may well be necessary to re-stabilise the bank to make it safe.</p><p>We also understand that several other Droitwich Marina moorers are similarly held up. </p><p>The staff at Alvechurch Marina have been incredibly supportive and we thank them for that. They have managed to find us a temporary mooring for the next two weeks which is most helpful as we have a number of items in the diary that do need attention - we had been planning to return home today or tomorrow before all this happened.</p><p>Yesterday we walked down to Alvechurch Parish Church for the 9.15 service. There were about 35 people there and it was a less formal 'family' service, even if the congregation was generally typical of its overall age profile! It was led by a lay worship leader and helped by a small music group, with use of slides projected on a screen (A new modernised AV system is about to be installed) Everyone was very welcoming and keen to make sure we stayed to have a cup of coffee - and a biscuit - afterwards.</p><p><br /></p>Mike Toddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00067557327430064111noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6239989273407700909.post-14164421552311614122023-10-20T15:30:00.000+01:002023-10-20T15:30:07.740+01:00Alvechurch<p>Today's Canal : Worcester and Birmingham</p><p>It had rained substantially overnight and we could see that the level of the canal had definitely risen. This stretch is part of the very long pound that forms the Birmingham Level, so changes in level involve a lot of water!</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmfdIxex0N8hXhkoTdWwte7eiJRZEjF6n6mW3WxSGZkj4yvhFd7slpGsy90xhLLwrvpYdSTRQ62QbVFPKNJdWHBe-GORYuOaxZ6xd09eAZRgfuJt_A0-oW3eGfm0JBm-D5tnFRRjA5uObrDgwn6_ZZG3kTMkNLPxRnwy1_w2MLM0t-SxGkkThe_rusvakL/s1000/oct20-a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmfdIxex0N8hXhkoTdWwte7eiJRZEjF6n6mW3WxSGZkj4yvhFd7slpGsy90xhLLwrvpYdSTRQ62QbVFPKNJdWHBe-GORYuOaxZ6xd09eAZRgfuJt_A0-oW3eGfm0JBm-D5tnFRRjA5uObrDgwn6_ZZG3kTMkNLPxRnwy1_w2MLM0t-SxGkkThe_rusvakL/s320/oct20-a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />At first it was still raining heavily but by mid morning it cleared enough to persuade Mike to make a start. It was not far to the entrance to Wast Hill Tunnel - at least we should be just about dry there - little did we know.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj95XQBJTA9jjHGehYCv_6eK9tOVmPYXpqDE-GA1eka3Z7pUropADyClBzImTbJ4QaDlA2tYqs3XkZ-0JQ8P49jJ5ARy6I9d37ME3babh0KZ0Mz-YQB0XuzS-2Vp1uvUl6Xhyphenhyphen4y0EL4cqnL1e5HBKdR1EbQGKqyYu3d8BNsOJW99HJSYimhyKo41mBS5BJK/s1000/oct20-b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="553" data-original-width="1000" height="177" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj95XQBJTA9jjHGehYCv_6eK9tOVmPYXpqDE-GA1eka3Z7pUropADyClBzImTbJ4QaDlA2tYqs3XkZ-0JQ8P49jJ5ARy6I9d37ME3babh0KZ0Mz-YQB0XuzS-2Vp1uvUl6Xhyphenhyphen4y0EL4cqnL1e5HBKdR1EbQGKqyYu3d8BNsOJW99HJSYimhyKo41mBS5BJK/s320/oct20-b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilzdKmXbxKBG1O1HnieYUjWTA38iCFNafc2Y4YlTOWe2mQHE7n4lZgQqW4t4abtKlHc572EGq9aX51f_yzab3sjci7hMki8P52WBSqlmzQGZ25dBPIq_38qkJWuZxJx3le0DhOElv_ICnrWWngVOwh255MGbrbRR25hsHqczozMP5Im1kYARwI62GiTvOT/s1000/oct20-c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="586" data-original-width="1000" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilzdKmXbxKBG1O1HnieYUjWTA38iCFNafc2Y4YlTOWe2mQHE7n4lZgQqW4t4abtKlHc572EGq9aX51f_yzab3sjci7hMki8P52WBSqlmzQGZ25dBPIq_38qkJWuZxJx3le0DhOElv_ICnrWWngVOwh255MGbrbRR25hsHqczozMP5Im1kYARwI62GiTvOT/s320/oct20-c.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />All of the channels that drain surface water into the canal were running at max - some were so strong that they pushed the boat sideways even more than a strong bywash. Others were doing their best to fill the canal to capacity.<p></p><p>We did not notice it at first, but as soon as we were in the tunnel it was obvious that we were going much slower than usual. After about four minutes another boat came into the tunnel behind us.</p><p>Juts before the mid point we still could not see the other end - a bit of a surprise as the tunnel is dead straight. However, it soon became apparent that there was a deluge coming down one of the ventilation shafts which was blocking the view. It was so strong that it covered the whole width of the tunnel and so we could not avoid it. Mike was very wet! About 400m from the far end another deluge, if anything even stronger. It was quite some physical sensation being hosed down so effectively, even if for just a few seconds. We cannot recall any other tunnel being anywhere near as wet as these two shafts.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIFxc-6fCrntRYP3AjrEFEc_CGEmnuIoR7_OSmsFjLsm0XkNu78GSv0I20bbDdnVoMg0Bk0RDaskBdcbbTRz0DKk5IH5VckV7n5QYAx5yX77qRA-eair3zZAzz9afrOQIO-MGUowtG0C5XYh0lt_TjvbmasB5q6WQr1VURhu6lr8uQrHPM7-0qHrMjTxiW/s1000/oct20-d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="586" data-original-width="1000" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIFxc-6fCrntRYP3AjrEFEc_CGEmnuIoR7_OSmsFjLsm0XkNu78GSv0I20bbDdnVoMg0Bk0RDaskBdcbbTRz0DKk5IH5VckV7n5QYAx5yX77qRA-eair3zZAzz9afrOQIO-MGUowtG0C5XYh0lt_TjvbmasB5q6WQr1VURhu6lr8uQrHPM7-0qHrMjTxiW/s320/oct20-d.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />We emerged 32 minutes later and the drain at the southern portal was equally fast flowing and we could see more clearly that there was a definite flow northwards. (That is not the other end of the tunnel, but the head light of the following boat)<p></p><p>The rain had now returned but Mike decided that as his trousers were already wet, he would continue for a while. In fact, the rain soon eased off and was only a light drizzle for the rest of the morning - at least until just as we eventually decided to moor.</p><p>There was not enough room for us at Withybed mooring (the towpath in this section is generally not very good for mooring at will) and it was a bit disappointing that the same proved to be the case at the net mooring just before the bridge at Alvechurch. Fortunately we remembered that there is a very short section designated as 2 days, just opposite the Marina base - most is No Mooring - and to our surprise it was entirely empty.</p><p>As Mike was tying up, a chap from the marina opposite called to Christine to tell us that the canal was blocked just ahead with a landslip an tree fall. As soon as we could we checked the Stoppage Notices and less than an hour ago CaRT gave out exactly that with, of course, no estimate at this stage of how long we are likely to be delayed. It had also bee announced that the Tardebigge flight was considered not safe to use with the risk that boats descending might flood the towpath, so it too was closed. So it looks pretty definite that we will not be progressing further today. Indeed, if the tree is substantial it can take a day or so to celar and if the landslip has blocked the canal then it is not looking good for a while. In addition, the weather forecast now shows rain every day until the end of the month! Even collecting the car from Droitwich is hampered with flood closing the rail line!</p><p>Time to light the stove.</p><p>5.8 Miles - 0 Locks</p>Mike Toddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00067557327430064111noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6239989273407700909.post-10725617317015360612023-10-19T18:21:00.003+01:002023-10-19T18:21:38.023+01:00Kings Norton<p>Today's Canal : Worcester and Birmingham</p><p>The forecast was not good for today (and the next two) but the chance of rain on the morning was quite low. The temperature was warmer than the last few days.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9RQDVbd2WLO3SqVn6H1J7lyvEv14WOPNyLy8nkURLWFmtzmUoY_my6ICB07fEkWHcxBCUJh0God7IsI7g-F8M_ex_Jm3uSlRbh5IUdxjTy5BZ6A3Lp9v2lqpWXzYkr1B3qJjE6bq-I1tOfI9r62xqnSksDA39GBzvBhTib6qvM-Dh32TNDB_MXzCUDkiL/s1000/oct19-a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="588" data-original-width="1000" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9RQDVbd2WLO3SqVn6H1J7lyvEv14WOPNyLy8nkURLWFmtzmUoY_my6ICB07fEkWHcxBCUJh0God7IsI7g-F8M_ex_Jm3uSlRbh5IUdxjTy5BZ6A3Lp9v2lqpWXzYkr1B3qJjE6bq-I1tOfI9r62xqnSksDA39GBzvBhTib6qvM-Dh32TNDB_MXzCUDkiL/s320/oct19-a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi820hTXx93DWffXEN4MpCGLitp_7vUIz_DuuKR8if7TobEdiZhxduVjrFu2YD9lKnM0WXpnGgYkD1V78GYzWNO_JFoSuKaSrUioB1koaV50MJFm-ghzCZ5Vp0SWShpIQpbxpeq9CMhRz17_G7dEH_82N304QzKbvPKg-S0rHAkGzGrpDZADNJbM82Vje8O/s1000/oct19-b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi820hTXx93DWffXEN4MpCGLitp_7vUIz_DuuKR8if7TobEdiZhxduVjrFu2YD9lKnM0WXpnGgYkD1V78GYzWNO_JFoSuKaSrUioB1koaV50MJFm-ghzCZ5Vp0SWShpIQpbxpeq9CMhRz17_G7dEH_82N304QzKbvPKg-S0rHAkGzGrpDZADNJbM82Vje8O/s320/oct19-b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />We began by reversing to Old Turn and then back down to Cambrian House to fill with water and do the usual disposals. A hire boat was already there but they were close to finishing. Nevertheless it was an hour before we could be on our way.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6TcQzvdDgovNvl8gNyLMVM4gn7OuSHEStmCO_p9ixx-mMFReSEdNQfKtRF6IjjCXx7S16DiMHeMrrF4MOxn-4js8skQR9HyHjWy1lBesTwd6mRDH_i39GGf2elvi-dpO0R1xGIeGbwXVfKc7y0UzWHSQLRc7m1Adb-4gTwD56z-Kg-MdV4elJRPjjOOsg/s1000/oct19-c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="590" data-original-width="1000" height="189" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6TcQzvdDgovNvl8gNyLMVM4gn7OuSHEStmCO_p9ixx-mMFReSEdNQfKtRF6IjjCXx7S16DiMHeMrrF4MOxn-4js8skQR9HyHjWy1lBesTwd6mRDH_i39GGf2elvi-dpO0R1xGIeGbwXVfKc7y0UzWHSQLRc7m1Adb-4gTwD56z-Kg-MdV4elJRPjjOOsg/s320/oct19-c.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Next to the Sea Life Centre we saw what we think is a new visitor attraction : the Park Experience. Sad to admit, but neither of us has had any experience of VR and so we can but imagine what you get for your money here (Around £40 each and you need groups of 4 or 6). We leave it to their web site to introduce themselves: <i>Embark on thrilling adventures with friends, family or colleagues as you tackle challenging quests together. Afterwards, unwind over a refreshing drink at the bar or enquire about our catering options.</i><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9dlsnifqDE3eKPehkkw6eWNOxnDLXyNiR84Ugk3jfzTarb-qSeOfHnEEpdXE97vvBKg0Ge1sDMK7e2Ct3vngPCuUsZhY7-_fRw8M4UPRAeGEp6GLW0hZlDR9ICvHp-3Mp8t9fXNbd7v5apydtIVLehsYG5ZM1f-5YlzPsHAfNOSTrbogb20D6PoqvPr-k/s1000/oct19-d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9dlsnifqDE3eKPehkkw6eWNOxnDLXyNiR84Ugk3jfzTarb-qSeOfHnEEpdXE97vvBKg0Ge1sDMK7e2Ct3vngPCuUsZhY7-_fRw8M4UPRAeGEp6GLW0hZlDR9ICvHp-3Mp8t9fXNbd7v5apydtIVLehsYG5ZM1f-5YlzPsHAfNOSTrbogb20D6PoqvPr-k/s320/oct19-d.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbZ2Z-xeojs_AoVeKwlN92UgX7Y0JiExHQXnxg4Lgiq9WT8NKb0nBUQP7JSE7LQSYA_2z77-WlKf1p7Oe-U_JgXKLXAWpBLYpWeX5el0m0MI4hT5qIDpdu_350zsaibRZMRYVhdsFcbx0U5gKmQBRr9KqCoTBT5oV2CPEytoDaq2gU1M5-8HtkDhoxWUAY/s1000/oct19-e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbZ2Z-xeojs_AoVeKwlN92UgX7Y0JiExHQXnxg4Lgiq9WT8NKb0nBUQP7JSE7LQSYA_2z77-WlKf1p7Oe-U_JgXKLXAWpBLYpWeX5el0m0MI4hT5qIDpdu_350zsaibRZMRYVhdsFcbx0U5gKmQBRr9KqCoTBT5oV2CPEytoDaq2gU1M5-8HtkDhoxWUAY/s320/oct19-e.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />After coming under Broad Street Bridge we passed through Worcester Bar. The pub here (no connection with 'bar' in the title - at one time the different canal companies insisted that goods had to be transhipped across a bar here) is usually very busy but perhaps the weather put off the early morning customers.<p></p><p>We think that this is the first time we have noticed the striking architecture of The Cube, a multi-function 'destination', next to the rather older Mailbox. A hotel, bowling alley, a Marco Polo White restaurant and other features including residential apartments are to be found somewhere on the 16 floors.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFGjfuZnTAdbFZin05OtGLOrN5A1gDTZYHLuyCslF6IA55Wf4cKtVB-d8PYZFDduCwkk5ibxV7gL_ezEeHMDxC_sCtmugW15PjNgOC3KMfGjdN744WvaWw1rCvPg-3sYNxSGlmHYJFFewaHBibWYPLYbYRdQiw0z5JFxWOvwEMiajezJTfEXnNo0jTjJ95/s1000/oct19-g.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFGjfuZnTAdbFZin05OtGLOrN5A1gDTZYHLuyCslF6IA55Wf4cKtVB-d8PYZFDduCwkk5ibxV7gL_ezEeHMDxC_sCtmugW15PjNgOC3KMfGjdN744WvaWw1rCvPg-3sYNxSGlmHYJFFewaHBibWYPLYbYRdQiw0z5JFxWOvwEMiajezJTfEXnNo0jTjJ95/s320/oct19-g.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Passing the Five Ways Station with a view that illustrates to diversity of a modern inner city.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6QwU7kQOjMWh6eabbjWVIOxIIBq-VsUtgaFXWsDYJ6hSjvwmvuesH51B4Zt4Y6BhFoGl7X6RLni0Zo6EVIQLIYKcpAzd2nYYv7rKLVoFHL7nzk7h-aGkbiU5A0Qu6M1S2yuYm2xaOUanTFxZ1yvqoJe7tft-1DWpOxHmxA8SVsebbMgZM98CKH1xmEQiQ/s1000/oct19-h.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="569" data-original-width="1000" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6QwU7kQOjMWh6eabbjWVIOxIIBq-VsUtgaFXWsDYJ6hSjvwmvuesH51B4Zt4Y6BhFoGl7X6RLni0Zo6EVIQLIYKcpAzd2nYYv7rKLVoFHL7nzk7h-aGkbiU5A0Qu6M1S2yuYm2xaOUanTFxZ1yvqoJe7tft-1DWpOxHmxA8SVsebbMgZM98CKH1xmEQiQ/s320/oct19-h.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The new University Station, with its rust-coloured footbridge to the main university campus, is all but complete - just a little final landscaping to go.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg3cVPzh95_lcrgDPCUzpp_XxOGuwdtXBmpkaapDUxfCzQj66H_oA0pwcPrG9mpDziV-ZZijXvjt0ILJpgE92Dk7wypX5Ec1vBFqnKVZvbbufC4iUan4NZWW3ZqPuB04-DYLW1Mhz-P500GdQB_vwvobfGrQzYVbjRkMv6Oo93yvm8ttHvrWq2TPGNvC7p/s1000/oct19-i.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="569" data-original-width="1000" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg3cVPzh95_lcrgDPCUzpp_XxOGuwdtXBmpkaapDUxfCzQj66H_oA0pwcPrG9mpDziV-ZZijXvjt0ILJpgE92Dk7wypX5Ec1vBFqnKVZvbbufC4iUan4NZWW3ZqPuB04-DYLW1Mhz-P500GdQB_vwvobfGrQzYVbjRkMv6Oo93yvm8ttHvrWq2TPGNvC7p/s320/oct19-i.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />We have often stopped at Selly Oak for shopping but this was the first time we could use the new Whitehouse Wharf - we spotted that we could moor quite close to the new footbridge and walk across to Sainsbury. Eventually this will provide a turning circle for boats joining this canal from the yet-to-be restored Lapal Canal. Progress is inevitably slow especially as it involves cooperation from large scale developments but the Trust seem determined to open up as far as a new marina at California.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Cg0mHM8NH5j8XMsfA1afXHFjO1ZxxKz71EGWF7mkzpmHEE1XRwPCixwAe3NwPQIHlVFX-qy47nbDn96fGYHdkuUKYoTvDfoBdOuPTxa76LuCasGjn_wvNNRt8nZZOvoJE7DIoT1rQm-BqPp30aSivKWWlvglcsQwRmGYAe7sL4ODxJnVrXwFnXA-oK34/s1000/oct19-j.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="569" data-original-width="1000" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Cg0mHM8NH5j8XMsfA1afXHFjO1ZxxKz71EGWF7mkzpmHEE1XRwPCixwAe3NwPQIHlVFX-qy47nbDn96fGYHdkuUKYoTvDfoBdOuPTxa76LuCasGjn_wvNNRt8nZZOvoJE7DIoT1rQm-BqPp30aSivKWWlvglcsQwRmGYAe7sL4ODxJnVrXwFnXA-oK34/s320/oct19-j.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />By the time we returned with our shopping we had lunch before setting off again. By now rain arrived and at first it was just a light drizzle. However, by the time we reached Kings Norton it was very much heavier and so we opted for an early finish to today's cruising at the mooring rings just after the Toll House.<p></p><p>6.6 Miles - 0 Locks</p>Mike Toddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00067557327430064111noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6239989273407700909.post-10726760402243348092023-10-18T19:00:00.001+01:002023-10-19T17:26:29.241+01:00Car Shuffle Day<p>Both Mike and Andrew needed to collect cars from the start of the trip. Andrew's was at Apsley whilst the other was next to the boatyard in Watford. After considerable discussion it was decided that they would both travel by train down to Apsley, Andrew would then drive them both to Watford after which they would separately drive to Droitwich Marina and finally Andrew take Mike to park his (Andrew's) car for a couple of hours close to where the boat was moored in the centre of Birmingham. After an evening meal he would then drive home. What could go wrong?</p><p>They left the boat in good time to walk vua the ICC to New Street Station. Arriving in good time they were able to buy coffees before boarding the first train. This was the medium fast train to London Euston via Northampton. They alighted at Milton Keynes to change to a slow stopping train to Apsley. This all worked well and they arrived on time.</p><p>It was only a short drive to Watford where the other car was still safely parked in an unmarked space next to a recreation ground. It was all going so well!</p><p>Just as he was setting his SatNav for the next leg of the journey, Andrew spotted that there was a lengthy delay on the M40 so they decided to take an alternative via Aylesbury and join the motorway further on.</p><p>Andrew managed to persuade his satnav to take him to Junction 10, just where the problem (road down to one lane for crash barrier repairs) - Mike thought he was headed towards Banbury after a food and comfort stop at Aylesbury Tesco, but after a while found himself heading resolutely to Bicester and Junction 9. The intersection was a nightmare - it was almost gridlocked as southbound traffic was largely all leaving because there were other delays after that, and the traffic lights were quite unable to cope, changing frequently to no purpose! Finally, Mike made it onto the M40 which was moving at a snail's pace - at least it was moving but it was perhaps it was perhaps 90 minutes later than expected when he finally left the motorways (M40, M42, M5) just outside Droitwich. </p><p>Mike's delay was communicated to Andrew who was able to make use of the time to top up his new electric car, which he would anyway have needed to do before he could safely drive back from Birmingham. </p><p>They met up at the marina where Mike left our car ready for when we get there in a few days time. Although it was now dark and rain started to fall, eventually rather heavily, they had little problem navigating to the chosen car park and the short walk to the boat where Christine was already preparing the meal!</p><p><br /></p>Mike Toddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00067557327430064111noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6239989273407700909.post-17718988355230213002023-10-17T19:01:00.007+01:002023-10-17T19:10:09.146+01:00Birmingham<p>Today's Canal - Birmingham and Fazeley</p><p>A challenge lay ahead of us for today: to get as far as Old Turn Junction in the centre of Birmingham to moor for the night! Only 27 locks to go . . . </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL90qugQ32Qp0DJHc_J07WSZG63FrUbeXc7u8NH9oXhyphenhyphen0INkqVMcYBpmuH-zPXhpn0FPsD499b5GKZ-nkpeMvensbwI8v6ytsjLXvfYuNOyCaW7kEhbQLo6CnxtUOg6yVd2LCv_y8bmJPyTm6jN9chD4ec5ncQHNcK5yqjM11Md3IJZ5kNJlnO6fZey9U2/s1000/oct17-a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL90qugQ32Qp0DJHc_J07WSZG63FrUbeXc7u8NH9oXhyphenhyphen0INkqVMcYBpmuH-zPXhpn0FPsD499b5GKZ-nkpeMvensbwI8v6ytsjLXvfYuNOyCaW7kEhbQLo6CnxtUOg6yVd2LCv_y8bmJPyTm6jN9chD4ec5ncQHNcK5yqjM11Md3IJZ5kNJlnO6fZey9U2/s320/oct17-a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />As a result we started reasonably promptly, with thin high level cloud slightly covering what would otherwise have been a bright clear blue sky. Interestingly, it was less chilly than the last two days.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV31hPKYT3RRVnNSmz1yT-Y80dG1qxNw27aJCz89er2AeRArSPDbCHbNAw8sCMTZmF1E0a5L9w7X9hrkIG660JWPLeIEWhWHCEVRNmCPM9n5jsOBxT0XpXAQeLUZzgD5x-bNzWOeBmdHFSxE89mk3ZvcGmaqCpjGUYWmLiyxuGhsWoHRFMw_-43aSiSZ3E/s1000/oct17-b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="534" data-original-width="1000" height="171" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV31hPKYT3RRVnNSmz1yT-Y80dG1qxNw27aJCz89er2AeRArSPDbCHbNAw8sCMTZmF1E0a5L9w7X9hrkIG660JWPLeIEWhWHCEVRNmCPM9n5jsOBxT0XpXAQeLUZzgD5x-bNzWOeBmdHFSxE89mk3ZvcGmaqCpjGUYWmLiyxuGhsWoHRFMw_-43aSiSZ3E/s320/oct17-b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Shortly after Cuttle Bridge and very large new industrial unit looked on the skyline. As we came closer we could see that it is a new Amazon Fulfillment Centre. Located within a very short distance of two motorways and other dual carriageways, it seems to be well suited for this purpose. We found the Development Master Plan (<a href="https://impeddimore.co.uk/the-project/masterplan">here</a>) which shows potentially nine other units on this site.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgncmDflG1rfWFt0lPkqgj-TJYgS3yq2outnl4OfVe2lTM7rq6xmr_by8yvIDf2oqew5PzT2dcunlRfsJiT1dKgArx9rhoMwUKvyIKnZIRitbfK9LlJPQtvzGXnZA8gS_rvHj-liGXK_dPmccMjyGVkZ3qR9SsPI6nKiX1o7ZoHn4zSsAFQIjlDG__2xbkV/s1000/oct17-c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgncmDflG1rfWFt0lPkqgj-TJYgS3yq2outnl4OfVe2lTM7rq6xmr_by8yvIDf2oqew5PzT2dcunlRfsJiT1dKgArx9rhoMwUKvyIKnZIRitbfK9LlJPQtvzGXnZA8gS_rvHj-liGXK_dPmccMjyGVkZ3qR9SsPI6nKiX1o7ZoHn4zSsAFQIjlDG__2xbkV/s320/oct17-c.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Just three locks at Minworth. The land to the north of the canal is an established industrial area but has undergone extensive redevelopment. The old ¬Kingsbury Road (now replaced by the A38) is close on the opposite side and it seems that a number of access points across the canal were closed off when the dual carriageway was created. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0e5H893H5szBZnrm_E3xbpo4uP3pedOagfK5-Y6RtdyF8YhjzqipGX2Yiadon_mOOGMo5kgQaO2kh-AhQCEMZo0CITuejWvWatRUDR0oZmx4VnF8YFBGPKiL9X9JCtjCy3hFEbkxW_Lx6K37OMdJK4MqSk5eqT6x4YgS22UJXTaEUtaAXr1G5F3Vb2vWm/s1000/oct17-d.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0e5H893H5szBZnrm_E3xbpo4uP3pedOagfK5-Y6RtdyF8YhjzqipGX2Yiadon_mOOGMo5kgQaO2kh-AhQCEMZo0CITuejWvWatRUDR0oZmx4VnF8YFBGPKiL9X9JCtjCy3hFEbkxW_Lx6K37OMdJK4MqSk5eqT6x4YgS22UJXTaEUtaAXr1G5F3Vb2vWm/s320/oct17-d.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The bridge just below the first lock was apparently a substantial vehicle access (but not perhaps for modern large artics) but has been closed for some time.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCvrNsSyii30ssHyaDwIWgqppIg-_wgY1WifI7PsnsbHVlnt1g6I0j14tGHjpWSU7UTxH8BFmWzsVfXaOMSl6CPKabaJo4dmAkQpUF4goLDkHXJdRGCR3tIYwjA77Iw1fL7z1JW2Q0ivA0whpAeRSB6utQX7iOx2MIcHn8Z1ZulPkbNY3Mh-thyphenhyphen0SXkRUm/s1000/oct17-e.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCvrNsSyii30ssHyaDwIWgqppIg-_wgY1WifI7PsnsbHVlnt1g6I0j14tGHjpWSU7UTxH8BFmWzsVfXaOMSl6CPKabaJo4dmAkQpUF4goLDkHXJdRGCR3tIYwjA77Iw1fL7z1JW2Q0ivA0whpAeRSB6utQX7iOx2MIcHn8Z1ZulPkbNY3Mh-thyphenhyphen0SXkRUm/s320/oct17-e.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Another footbridge now closed was part of the former Cincinnati Works which has now been replaced by housing development. All that remains visible of the bridge are parts of its two footings.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtvSKJVP7zIRV-qxvan7nZSdfVxNg58RnlCWaTim4l5stS7G9uFLShZaOBe7H9IV1vGPTGxP9pR9tHlL9mLIu2Bc34qRLytb9JK8AoJnbffXaj-7TSFMWSlSjV2s-pN8ivP40AUDi7w1jh_wAgbC8tMJCaOpGHbSssRYOdeD-CdpSy6Xuw3R3Jsc_whxWq/s1000/oct17-f.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtvSKJVP7zIRV-qxvan7nZSdfVxNg58RnlCWaTim4l5stS7G9uFLShZaOBe7H9IV1vGPTGxP9pR9tHlL9mLIu2Bc34qRLytb9JK8AoJnbffXaj-7TSFMWSlSjV2s-pN8ivP40AUDi7w1jh_wAgbC8tMJCaOpGHbSssRYOdeD-CdpSy6Xuw3R3Jsc_whxWq/s320/oct17-f.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />As we came up the top lock we made a quick trip to the elsan unit just below. We opted to leave filling with water, if we run shirt of time then we could manage until tomorrow morning. The rubbish disposal has long been removed with a sign directing boaters to Cuckoo Wharf after Salford Junction.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXUIoJWy_Xl0T3wk2uhCda5v_m1KWjJjjxVvWcb4ryFBsxay4w913VQJR2N2EeLOFOmYq2a7JmjrdlQPWQDIWalfWhsTb6KG8iEjgFIL5eYLDW3OfTZGPLjL8QC-BckMgvmlQ2EUI5SGIj-vPDrurHBmNkrxE-xBPsC08IyM_Rtt_2abkQ4aEY_x1J2q3G/s1000/oct17-g.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="559" data-original-width="1000" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXUIoJWy_Xl0T3wk2uhCda5v_m1KWjJjjxVvWcb4ryFBsxay4w913VQJR2N2EeLOFOmYq2a7JmjrdlQPWQDIWalfWhsTb6KG8iEjgFIL5eYLDW3OfTZGPLjL8QC-BckMgvmlQ2EUI5SGIj-vPDrurHBmNkrxE-xBPsC08IyM_Rtt_2abkQ4aEY_x1J2q3G/s320/oct17-g.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Eventually the elevated M6 started to dominate the skyline, not to mention our ears. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPb25RdOw8ES4Y8csriNo2ECtiufApRmfP60PyBfyUyZ5lhsgXTjxlAHhX_gUcMHc8tczwlFFBmCbVyFJFA2kEArG10QqP1rMy6UDnPPLYXFETkOAi6w585afkRqRuya3MW7BiYw8wABBsMQiy3i2U1eP8mI2eWAuQZERNyThyphenhyphen5XgHGvbI70uXJlDwSaS5/s1000/oct17-h.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPb25RdOw8ES4Y8csriNo2ECtiufApRmfP60PyBfyUyZ5lhsgXTjxlAHhX_gUcMHc8tczwlFFBmCbVyFJFA2kEArG10QqP1rMy6UDnPPLYXFETkOAi6w585afkRqRuya3MW7BiYw8wABBsMQiy3i2U1eP8mI2eWAuQZERNyThyphenhyphen5XgHGvbI70uXJlDwSaS5/s320/oct17-h.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWzOYRo7RqE3h6yYZGnw91Qab3ga4g2Yl_jmUuXkf-2PB1LMECrrtAku5pjRlWKIMX6v6L_GhLkWrkza2jHlp18GlK4o40qMFh9LlCAQ9dy37Xi5IJC9rS8F-r1i67ynJiOoomBn6TibM7vGKRu7fWMg-cZE7eKpLTcsnDxbpVxHXel1yuSu8eSaW5Whhl/s1000/oct17-i.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="596" data-original-width="1000" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWzOYRo7RqE3h6yYZGnw91Qab3ga4g2Yl_jmUuXkf-2PB1LMECrrtAku5pjRlWKIMX6v6L_GhLkWrkza2jHlp18GlK4o40qMFh9LlCAQ9dy37Xi5IJC9rS8F-r1i67ynJiOoomBn6TibM7vGKRu7fWMg-cZE7eKpLTcsnDxbpVxHXel1yuSu8eSaW5Whhl/s320/oct17-i.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />As we neared the junction we spotted this advertising sign opposite the motorway level. Given the appearance of its age it is little wonder that no-one has decided that it is an effective selling device!<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjABPWDy671BpFM3vhwRoYeH7duYU2HgVhsR8KO1wOeYrGm6SMMa85Ha8OFdt1LyNNBwu4EKeMkP4tyJAtYC7m5NhhXDXoNmgaA9g6nPwM4d4xaABm9Lhp21bxn2OyCqOL1SIw8g-E8RpzFj59HcL6oI9-HToKzrGn0QYuwq4vDqX85TFU6yeVrd_GFxuqd/s1000/oct17-j.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjABPWDy671BpFM3vhwRoYeH7duYU2HgVhsR8KO1wOeYrGm6SMMa85Ha8OFdt1LyNNBwu4EKeMkP4tyJAtYC7m5NhhXDXoNmgaA9g6nPwM4d4xaABm9Lhp21bxn2OyCqOL1SIw8g-E8RpzFj59HcL6oI9-HToKzrGn0QYuwq4vDqX85TFU6yeVrd_GFxuqd/s320/oct17-j.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The canal junction is right underneath the motorway. One canal leds off to nechells and Bordesley Junction bypassing the city centre en route to the Grand Union southwards, which the Birmingham and Fazeley continues over the River Tame. Straight ahead is the Tame Valley Canal.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr8xuOQ3nu0t5C6r5dIUmpw58GNxAu9Jg3g7BzNrWqxAVQvZL0qQ2qBTcwM2Xndhy-gRDqE42Nq703u_eSqJu_b7RMru2xB4eKzGcBtmVXFKjjdX4wX2Js_RRvItr2CcZu37weyeYpyW-68BaIeVWrXXlTCPg3v4XJAdPOyk9m2vPqT4s0S0fyZOn3clL9/s1000/oct17-k.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr8xuOQ3nu0t5C6r5dIUmpw58GNxAu9Jg3g7BzNrWqxAVQvZL0qQ2qBTcwM2Xndhy-gRDqE42Nq703u_eSqJu_b7RMru2xB4eKzGcBtmVXFKjjdX4wX2Js_RRvItr2CcZu37weyeYpyW-68BaIeVWrXXlTCPg3v4XJAdPOyk9m2vPqT4s0S0fyZOn3clL9/s320/oct17-k.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The Aston flight has 11 locks - the first few are spread out with long intervening pounds, before gradually bunching up towards the top. The bottom lock is underneath one of many rail bridges on this route into the city.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFvQ_lUzm7DQ_BeEhvTxgSLAJQ2dO8NE5Xa3Uv0jICFLaillQ_1QOlEwaTY4xB6pDpv_FaQffLpo8OxgwJ9bfhvuoTzqJmGdGlfVFO3mjpvmuLBIy3nh5UXHgzyY5BZu3dKzKtcNV3icLSxvEhk9C2ZRdT-ldBlL_rC_Hqd8I6LC-8XYR3NPzvpTnbS6wo/s1000/oct17-l.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="493" data-original-width="1000" height="158" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFvQ_lUzm7DQ_BeEhvTxgSLAJQ2dO8NE5Xa3Uv0jICFLaillQ_1QOlEwaTY4xB6pDpv_FaQffLpo8OxgwJ9bfhvuoTzqJmGdGlfVFO3mjpvmuLBIy3nh5UXHgzyY5BZu3dKzKtcNV3icLSxvEhk9C2ZRdT-ldBlL_rC_Hqd8I6LC-8XYR3NPzvpTnbS6wo/s320/oct17-l.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The former lock cottage and the next lock has been painted a pleasant blue shade recently - five years ago it was bright red!<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPG9t6vZh-poyK1AHul4HoaHoHbqQm9Ya6Ofb_ZpMABxupdO6Zontp4_kWZ-d8dwszesJdAQCuUs_c4Ip6tQb1N1Nr4QGX8NCrUQD5bebrI0I_GHQaZ4G5_tabU8MMuzwbQ6ejno55OVEviN_0HGNEJj9E9MtZbEISMKUByJFeeSGXzfwa-WVwSsS_RjHG/s1000/oct17-m.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="490" data-original-width="1000" height="157" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPG9t6vZh-poyK1AHul4HoaHoHbqQm9Ya6Ofb_ZpMABxupdO6Zontp4_kWZ-d8dwszesJdAQCuUs_c4Ip6tQb1N1Nr4QGX8NCrUQD5bebrI0I_GHQaZ4G5_tabU8MMuzwbQ6ejno55OVEviN_0HGNEJj9E9MtZbEISMKUByJFeeSGXzfwa-WVwSsS_RjHG/s320/oct17-m.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />There are innumerable hump bridges in the towpath that spanned the entrances to short arms or wharves. The coping stones are almost all unnamed but just after the second lock we spotted a few bricks with their manufacturer stamped into the clay. They are not very clear - we think it says Cannock Colliery Walsall. we have not been able to pin down exactly who this was but there were several brick works that grew up alongside coal mines as a business diversification. In some cases they seriously undercut more traditional brick works.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc1ZjEk5NLfwfkowO2eMu_I33Edx-kednco8xyX7QSuWFH5sq434NVp8FahL_aQsQFhibb9sXkSsBYnVbsYgfXUE1qK3YzA2X-sIqTyE9dGuCfSN4OjyXH6ysWgUf9o72ZaMWUGZIQ_rrjVuNDlXWTVGsLddD0hEDjWXutSvFWUZk5VQeLgEJe5wTeeX-1/s1000/oct17-n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc1ZjEk5NLfwfkowO2eMu_I33Edx-kednco8xyX7QSuWFH5sq434NVp8FahL_aQsQFhibb9sXkSsBYnVbsYgfXUE1qK3YzA2X-sIqTyE9dGuCfSN4OjyXH6ysWgUf9o72ZaMWUGZIQ_rrjVuNDlXWTVGsLddD0hEDjWXutSvFWUZk5VQeLgEJe5wTeeX-1/s320/oct17-n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMX48lhl636vShlScX5GzE33D651HXZHtpkjS_zx_AGHIF87u8LAZkEe_iE_3yDlM0EctoW4MvHr3uvpcl_iZWzxrMGLGbyJW01jU_vTggJ-hILUOjslsCiG0UwjK3WmGXmFhRg-vUUAIjGIG7tk2Ee8KJf_Vhf8y8essho9qnBzaZgP72kgDu5VhbK0Vf/s1000/oct17-o.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMX48lhl636vShlScX5GzE33D651HXZHtpkjS_zx_AGHIF87u8LAZkEe_iE_3yDlM0EctoW4MvHr3uvpcl_iZWzxrMGLGbyJW01jU_vTggJ-hILUOjslsCiG0UwjK3WmGXmFhRg-vUUAIjGIG7tk2Ee8KJf_Vhf8y8essho9qnBzaZgP72kgDu5VhbK0Vf/s320/oct17-o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />A splendid turnover bridge heralded the arrival at the top lock. Just after the junction we moored to some bollards for a timely lunch break - another new soup from Christine to fortify us for the next flight. The flight took just under an hour and a half - including cruising the longer pounds near the bottom of the flight.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt3tLTByIJgqfMS7hQOHN5HrHo5WsFDjXkqa9SPJNcbkXRCgwHc8FtRR3erRDqOoppK6xG9B590-OM-G2gqdJ7jHYj0UAJmFb2fN5SydwxvVvfF-TQzqSWAiny1Z4dWrKBMvPCzn71DTnQ50XPwxOrspU7vj-UlJNU67c9uMT-yqQ8nYw2h16yCVKkDks9/s1000/oct17-p.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="707" data-original-width="1000" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt3tLTByIJgqfMS7hQOHN5HrHo5WsFDjXkqa9SPJNcbkXRCgwHc8FtRR3erRDqOoppK6xG9B590-OM-G2gqdJ7jHYj0UAJmFb2fN5SydwxvVvfF-TQzqSWAiny1Z4dWrKBMvPCzn71DTnQ50XPwxOrspU7vj-UlJNU67c9uMT-yqQ8nYw2h16yCVKkDks9/s320/oct17-p.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />After lunch we continued on the Birmingham and Fazeley with a level section before the main flight. We have not spotted this building before - the former Cliveland Road Flour Mill. A little bit of its history can be found <a href="https://birminghamhistory.co.uk/forum/index.php?threads/bullocks-mill-on-cliveland-street.36761/">here</a>, but we have not discovered its present use - even Google Street View does not help. the main flight arrived and all the locks are very close together.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKVCmTSRXh2iHJsQWBigtynpET-yubqzrjuv4F0KCozETc8EW6Bepe1MutL5DxduLNupFSH0Nxi7kFqqyZjvTIfzoVGuGx_8tUQ5WNGcUYOJew1Z2j42XblY19VDfbwvElqqSVXAozQaIP1jopVYkMdFGOaHtEWd0AZLTzCM1BsnRaS97Rd0lGESoyBof8/s1000/oct17-q.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKVCmTSRXh2iHJsQWBigtynpET-yubqzrjuv4F0KCozETc8EW6Bepe1MutL5DxduLNupFSH0Nxi7kFqqyZjvTIfzoVGuGx_8tUQ5WNGcUYOJew1Z2j42XblY19VDfbwvElqqSVXAozQaIP1jopVYkMdFGOaHtEWd0AZLTzCM1BsnRaS97Rd0lGESoyBof8/s320/oct17-q.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The canal gradually becomes overwhelmed by surrounding development -some well established some very new.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHdkfZKeSq6AwW6sY5HsJ5vJO7Lqo9sSaw1Eq_M73Zuq1IJiMdv_4GxqKJ9Cpz77zox4gR-fpbAOrwEt0snvcMBEKmQoJ_9po0hrKWQMPDUb5g71LLpyPTHDeyOLeyo_xn4YQ7qWK7LahYrbL8P6zIsLUpCuqnz7wyhKxbnM1DVtGENd5d49yE8RECl_oG/s1000/oct17-r.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="707" data-original-width="1000" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHdkfZKeSq6AwW6sY5HsJ5vJO7Lqo9sSaw1Eq_M73Zuq1IJiMdv_4GxqKJ9Cpz77zox4gR-fpbAOrwEt0snvcMBEKmQoJ_9po0hrKWQMPDUb5g71LLpyPTHDeyOLeyo_xn4YQ7qWK7LahYrbL8P6zIsLUpCuqnz7wyhKxbnM1DVtGENd5d49yE8RECl_oG/s320/oct17-r.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Here it seems as if an existing building is being re-purposed with several new storeys being added and the whole block made into apartments.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0y5L9UyeKxN96wwoF40WjlJs5HXYfHCq3uCG72SAENLv8asSqggJwE9-ih5Y4_JS-eEf8wrH8VYt-BCdyQcNd5pVakKFZu1AX6TTkDrli9XL6vni1pOghNPy6eGduA6rw3_dgXePzudzzm1RPJ4hqsCgk8t-USF5127GTP33RZeC9kXWOde2qmBKtbcib/s1000/oct17-s.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0y5L9UyeKxN96wwoF40WjlJs5HXYfHCq3uCG72SAENLv8asSqggJwE9-ih5Y4_JS-eEf8wrH8VYt-BCdyQcNd5pVakKFZu1AX6TTkDrli9XL6vni1pOghNPy6eGduA6rw3_dgXePzudzzm1RPJ4hqsCgk8t-USF5127GTP33RZeC9kXWOde2qmBKtbcib/s320/oct17-s.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The canal then almost disappears underground below Brindley House, part of the BT Tower complex.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEvATY8Jr3ZyhF_urg6N-js1_nn-TpTnHhGxZsNDsZCakELMz31Jnf0wLcB1_523YJ9U5HoFOFSGvFc5Sp7Y1k3dD-JSWCgPZ62bjW48b8bmasSfbzgeF2ErVqySovR9bTUMc-uGfPtkOMKY5tYkDuwrc_vMtysl2vwh9wwft5sSKPdxc483fntsIhU8Bm/s1000/oct17-t.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEvATY8Jr3ZyhF_urg6N-js1_nn-TpTnHhGxZsNDsZCakELMz31Jnf0wLcB1_523YJ9U5HoFOFSGvFc5Sp7Y1k3dD-JSWCgPZ62bjW48b8bmasSfbzgeF2ErVqySovR9bTUMc-uGfPtkOMKY5tYkDuwrc_vMtysl2vwh9wwft5sSKPdxc483fntsIhU8Bm/s320/oct17-t.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The sky was now bright blue but we only saw glimpses amongst the tall blocks all around.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhncmrR_H7-CUL8AKr-6Mc08dTQocHD4Pz17xWMqmQwYid9CfHJ60BjGuQeRfImCTaLgmU7pYGDMi4eIDsSL9tF2xp4ls8Ip4TUvD7dMPbX1SmBK3_SDRbEXx0MVYrtT7_reoGSkoGN6hEpSaO82bfPsl8ndWY485RWvMLl3C1oSy6Q9e9sJ147Ts1o0JlD/s1000/oct17-u.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="655" data-original-width="1000" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhncmrR_H7-CUL8AKr-6Mc08dTQocHD4Pz17xWMqmQwYid9CfHJ60BjGuQeRfImCTaLgmU7pYGDMi4eIDsSL9tF2xp4ls8Ip4TUvD7dMPbX1SmBK3_SDRbEXx0MVYrtT7_reoGSkoGN6hEpSaO82bfPsl8ndWY485RWvMLl3C1oSy6Q9e9sJ147Ts1o0JlD/s320/oct17-u.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Islington Place Footbridge should be gleaming white - as it has in the past - but alas it has not been cleaned in a while and is now a dirty grey.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8HFjTkMsEAA1g9RxtRbmQray0CPS6aq9-musRQMcCthIb-d5Oxqmo3SZk57jpQx75ac5vIUp3JdXxi7Zydqv5iZJeZuMvPcWU_lB4ooWyT-4Fywar3ynJBtXuJJCXSzBJ-zfuAHRZnVlquw53hZmRoK4zxocti9Zet6sQQiz4S043te381XMF4vSKi0bN/s1000/oct17-v.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8HFjTkMsEAA1g9RxtRbmQray0CPS6aq9-musRQMcCthIb-d5Oxqmo3SZk57jpQx75ac5vIUp3JdXxi7Zydqv5iZJeZuMvPcWU_lB4ooWyT-4Fywar3ynJBtXuJJCXSzBJ-zfuAHRZnVlquw53hZmRoK4zxocti9Zet6sQQiz4S043te381XMF4vSKi0bN/s320/oct17-v.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Eventually we arrived at Farmers Bridge Junction where, to the right in this photo, the Birmingham Newhall Branch used to go. Only the short basin now remains. The rest has long since been built over. The thirteen locks has taken us 70 minutes.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXjpHG3YCFljK4XVj-4CDpwoX3bHp7Z59R8uvl_1L1znB6VcZoTipF19T2Ji1Z8jaZvQ_aPwoZtW1KFbE7ohjWh00sn_pkEjzZqEkFXI9CYkgQ0hRZpTpJdMDALSdNZZmkgz1IhmdVCk0Gaf0xJbcAkpO8ZEyy2RwiEIIWtPKfSMR4jRSia2GKJYdgWZWl/s1000/oct17-w.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="563" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXjpHG3YCFljK4XVj-4CDpwoX3bHp7Z59R8uvl_1L1znB6VcZoTipF19T2Ji1Z8jaZvQ_aPwoZtW1KFbE7ohjWh00sn_pkEjzZqEkFXI9CYkgQ0hRZpTpJdMDALSdNZZmkgz1IhmdVCk0Gaf0xJbcAkpO8ZEyy2RwiEIIWtPKfSMR4jRSia2GKJYdgWZWl/s320/oct17-w.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />We paused at Cambrian House above the top lock to fill up with water. This took took time. When full we continued through Old Turn Junction (sometimes mistakenly called Farmers Bridge but also known as Deep Cutting Junction!) to find a mooring outside the Birmingham Arena where we frequently have found a space. As Mike was tying up he was greeted by Debby from <i>nb Bonjour</i> (see blog list right). They were moored just a few boats away and are also now heading back to Droitwich Marina for the winter,<p></p><p>9.3 Miles - 27 Locks</p>Mike Toddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00067557327430064111noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6239989273407700909.post-7406306867931358492023-10-16T18:30:00.001+01:002023-10-16T18:30:34.149+01:00Minworth<p>Today's Canal : Coventry, Birmingham and Fazeley</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgak6HPjSQw0Oszy8nonlfjL75udyUNWDJkcZuoCEzlQDPHcRPZnSPjziPIePYf97QfiOmaYPytipEOC6_6tNlaanOew1Pb86TqeDKUKmjwAWPqKjmVcErk28dU34i6m6ZBFt2fZC0p8BI74IxzHctwnBRY3hkUaZM7tg-RpcjJ9uCbOqDCChUcHKlLk0Po/s1000/oct%2016-a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="572" data-original-width="1000" height="183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgak6HPjSQw0Oszy8nonlfjL75udyUNWDJkcZuoCEzlQDPHcRPZnSPjziPIePYf97QfiOmaYPytipEOC6_6tNlaanOew1Pb86TqeDKUKmjwAWPqKjmVcErk28dU34i6m6ZBFt2fZC0p8BI74IxzHctwnBRY3hkUaZM7tg-RpcjJ9uCbOqDCChUcHKlLk0Po/s320/oct%2016-a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Still quite cold today and there was a thin layer of mist over the water early on which quickly dispersed. However, no blue sky as high level cloud stayed with us all day.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSAUoVqehdk79DfD6e4d1_bRUFIJtFvQj5viE-bn6WLufRw4JI8rMLoENuEz2mHaHclfA9M4OtUbgH6JCHKn7TunfS03k5SQo_PXOEzQ5EN0A9hNUWuIlvvVFQ-fGEj8G0vY-85F_r2F82cJgowclxVFomKgvG4TD5P5vhNjiONL7an7MnxufIT_zqefXg/s1000/oct%2016-b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSAUoVqehdk79DfD6e4d1_bRUFIJtFvQj5viE-bn6WLufRw4JI8rMLoENuEz2mHaHclfA9M4OtUbgH6JCHKn7TunfS03k5SQo_PXOEzQ5EN0A9hNUWuIlvvVFQ-fGEj8G0vY-85F_r2F82cJgowclxVFomKgvG4TD5P5vhNjiONL7an7MnxufIT_zqefXg/s320/oct%2016-b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />When we set off we almost immediately arrived at the two Glascote Locks which were in our favour. Now we are back in the swing of narrow locks, three crew can get through them at a good pace. However, we failed to take any pictures here or as we came around Fazeley Junction.<p></p><p>We needed to fill with water as Christine wanted to put the washing machine on as soon as possible. We debated whether to fill the diesel tank as well but initially we decided that it would last us back to base. When we reached Fazeley Mill Marina we spotted their price and went onto the towpath water point instead. No sooner had we connected up the hosepipe but there was a further debate about fuel. The route ahead does not have many places and the main one is at Alvechurch, another ABC marina so presumably the same price. Put the hosepipe back in its box and reverse to the marina entrance and then in to their service wharf. We filled up and also completed all the other usual services.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNnE8J0gduv-3Udbh-WFsBZFVn3YDq6pThWkE45CaVkyyYL2DJSipn0mGNy8m0Sm15vhk-5KZJlwb7YYchr695u86zxXqTdtHnv7h2tmq50DUPHBjPSR5-7WM_MJFPgKTxIacklnFIR3EEE2TDhZ-Fi47JO6ABtxJfHSjOJlMndhCxuMiBv3_UUJ5G4Vr0/s1000/oct%2016-c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="538" data-original-width="1000" height="172" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNnE8J0gduv-3Udbh-WFsBZFVn3YDq6pThWkE45CaVkyyYL2DJSipn0mGNy8m0Sm15vhk-5KZJlwb7YYchr695u86zxXqTdtHnv7h2tmq50DUPHBjPSR5-7WM_MJFPgKTxIacklnFIR3EEE2TDhZ-Fi47JO6ABtxJfHSjOJlMndhCxuMiBv3_UUJ5G4Vr0/s320/oct%2016-c.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Drayton Manor Bridge is another popular image. Its twin turrets each house a spiral staircase. It was built in the early 19C. The Tame Valley Wetlands <a href="http://www.tamevalleywetlands.co.uk/fairytale-canal-bridge-gets-a-makeover/">website </a>says <i>"The bridge dates to when Sir Robert Peel (British Prime Minister and founder of the police force) built his new mansion at Drayton Bassett. The canal ran through his estate so it’s widely thought that Sir Robert wanted the bridge to be a feature along the canal rather than the more practical styles typically seen along the waterways."</i><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOW7jv9ortB_1veK9dH-bIwvqiFr9y3idgZ31ax9bfth3aQX871i-ovF3-H3IFyVN_HLtuY0zgXb9Iz-U-d_gFXwDx7VQ_rQbZq7IilINrXLcigcDidqFj-kIghiGbWzNt32OM5u_ZlNHgMUxsOb657BD0-DP3GYnk6PUlUsFXbeFrcSYDzzbnvMzTWfp6/s1000/oct%2016-d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="524" data-original-width="1000" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOW7jv9ortB_1veK9dH-bIwvqiFr9y3idgZ31ax9bfth3aQX871i-ovF3-H3IFyVN_HLtuY0zgXb9Iz-U-d_gFXwDx7VQ_rQbZq7IilINrXLcigcDidqFj-kIghiGbWzNt32OM5u_ZlNHgMUxsOb657BD0-DP3GYnk6PUlUsFXbeFrcSYDzzbnvMzTWfp6/s320/oct%2016-d.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />John Smeaton was the engineer hired to construct this canal and he managed to devise a route that allowed mostly long straight sections. Most of the locks were gathered into a single flight. The architecture is quite conventional but frequent modern signposts guide walkers to various parts of the country parks created form former quarries that occupied most of the land to the east of the canal from Fazeley to the first locks. They were started in 1930s when farmers discovered they could make more money this way than from agriculture!<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWI2Ai-hjJeuF4B4GcqgHSY60JWvQWQyh7ELmX2XT8hjD0QUu9z6rqqB9R_0WrGTj3a9WuWlqzSvzjHpCiskHo3FglygJliw0A7-JOilTRiTGFsNS2a9YL5GOr-wY6PXbTIELnXW7Ay9SCLQAgcKNi6gsaMXKuORfPpXoZlY7EGSSzRgBgwt_RK2o-_BpS/s1000/oct%2016-e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="524" data-original-width="1000" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWI2Ai-hjJeuF4B4GcqgHSY60JWvQWQyh7ELmX2XT8hjD0QUu9z6rqqB9R_0WrGTj3a9WuWlqzSvzjHpCiskHo3FglygJliw0A7-JOilTRiTGFsNS2a9YL5GOr-wY6PXbTIELnXW7Ay9SCLQAgcKNi6gsaMXKuORfPpXoZlY7EGSSzRgBgwt_RK2o-_BpS/s320/oct%2016-e.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Gravel Pit Bridge is about the only visible reminder of this history of the area. Older guide books describe it as a conveyor bridge but later became a roadway. As far as we could see it is now derelict, not even a footbridge.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi289KP2CaSbA-JNO_Pi6kVasuNo40ePxbvoaVrNXYJ3WUj4fFW8DMt5mpMduWoyIE7nVl8a8a-Xj3YENr9b0-4N8hy2hZLjYqOOYEv6ehcS8xFUlY3Ib8kYIoCem0bmf8u4tswjaanQsLmugRvom8Lgu2cMajiHdAyyGhqsvVO5Q7n0RQS_ZYJTItw2sKt/s1000/oct%2016-f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="524" data-original-width="1000" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi289KP2CaSbA-JNO_Pi6kVasuNo40ePxbvoaVrNXYJ3WUj4fFW8DMt5mpMduWoyIE7nVl8a8a-Xj3YENr9b0-4N8hy2hZLjYqOOYEv6ehcS8xFUlY3Ib8kYIoCem0bmf8u4tswjaanQsLmugRvom8Lgu2cMajiHdAyyGhqsvVO5Q7n0RQS_ZYJTItw2sKt/s320/oct%2016-f.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEzvMZtF0UG5MIrKO5xxwfWhOj-uhBUg6RIBzTZnQB6mVawSbM6oEprqTKxezsWkBHtsC91bl1esXCi98WPmtaqFaF9-bBMmwUy6zA6jvXpnx_cNmhAFesDDcmakGSzHNvnJ4Hk6Zm0VHHO6z9oPtZd2OVzd1wd9GdVGZLDDYViX8EOs_CWolESe3Fd4ES/s1000/oct%2016-g.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="524" data-original-width="1000" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEzvMZtF0UG5MIrKO5xxwfWhOj-uhBUg6RIBzTZnQB6mVawSbM6oEprqTKxezsWkBHtsC91bl1esXCi98WPmtaqFaF9-bBMmwUy6zA6jvXpnx_cNmhAFesDDcmakGSzHNvnJ4Hk6Zm0VHHO6z9oPtZd2OVzd1wd9GdVGZLDDYViX8EOs_CWolESe3Fd4ES/s320/oct%2016-g.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />We arrived at the bottom of the Curdworth flight around 12:20. A boat passed us just before this so we were surprised that the first lock was full. We reached the moorings at the Dog and Doublet at one o'clock - just right timing for a lunch break.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPb_ravx6RKmazMi_hP1KMp7f19z-782i-FbXe165P1_a8VSijiGcifLNH0KRlDy_8rveUX0LRhWXDh91lYDCicpw3HuOUYQYO_kW49G_NWAhX5cQOjXAmWeh0iFgh89YEdketWhOCucD3fbHVeMBNjj0lbUbQox6YjfPKZmNK5mIUS3SBPQ_Jes93Vx0Y/s1000/oct%2016-h.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="604" data-original-width="1000" height="193" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPb_ravx6RKmazMi_hP1KMp7f19z-782i-FbXe165P1_a8VSijiGcifLNH0KRlDy_8rveUX0LRhWXDh91lYDCicpw3HuOUYQYO_kW49G_NWAhX5cQOjXAmWeh0iFgh89YEdketWhOCucD3fbHVeMBNjj0lbUbQox6YjfPKZmNK5mIUS3SBPQ_Jes93Vx0Y/s320/oct%2016-h.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Each of the locks has a tiny flower bed around the lock number, all differently planted and kept looking very smart.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk7O0a4gVoW6YEyJ9AhkcWCgPNcFy-i0zekdhjWYbiMtsgOCvbXgHA_Dt8foN7hLM5RzqeaO5l7Ntq8sJkU0yUR6GWUpVUNL7pjwYelQq1PywPM_NPRwvZnDGcrx-dzpVx7sqx9Mu-3Vq2gWB-JuApOWmLFjphuvX7CZGEbfjVM9yNTTAnv9eU1LktU1hM/s1000/oct%2016-i.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="604" data-original-width="1000" height="193" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk7O0a4gVoW6YEyJ9AhkcWCgPNcFy-i0zekdhjWYbiMtsgOCvbXgHA_Dt8foN7hLM5RzqeaO5l7Ntq8sJkU0yUR6GWUpVUNL7pjwYelQq1PywPM_NPRwvZnDGcrx-dzpVx7sqx9Mu-3Vq2gWB-JuApOWmLFjphuvX7CZGEbfjVM9yNTTAnv9eU1LktU1hM/s320/oct%2016-i.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Between Locks 5 and 6 is new crossing for HS2. We assume that the line will be carried on a viaduct across the canal - a short section over the nearby motorway is already in place. However, we nothing much happening, the scene is quite stark, almost as if it was from a wartime prison camp!<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjN3QTHZrBco7wYHpBcoxlKfdGWpaQ9S-tfML9TFelZQOMvoLVjEccB9rN8tyQeR6cn2mxYIgn4YQmI2G_hEkCCkS5SEsB481wuDkRaqjyFMgo1JkkIzVSv0gFzUjD_WLnX9OSi_o6buWH3qW98I8avwlJ3g5M-sWEfpgKyB1sNBvDHxQcsX7ZycidBRYl/s1000/oct%2016-j.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjN3QTHZrBco7wYHpBcoxlKfdGWpaQ9S-tfML9TFelZQOMvoLVjEccB9rN8tyQeR6cn2mxYIgn4YQmI2G_hEkCCkS5SEsB481wuDkRaqjyFMgo1JkkIzVSv0gFzUjD_WLnX9OSi_o6buWH3qW98I8avwlJ3g5M-sWEfpgKyB1sNBvDHxQcsX7ZycidBRYl/s320/oct%2016-j.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Lock 2 looks as if it is the top of the flight as the next lock is some distance away.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpR1qBc7xWlRv8RHE54CgAKVINgC-OPk2A1L4sWbZS7h7DiAbO3NzCMPpT18uzgyAT3Fi9UxEW-1WKIpGkxI1mF33oQKYUR7GuPbOZs0sGFoha9q4IU21JRhOa2T_Q58bsHbqI94cdk6icYgI5z1MkoNoyJBQEhVfreaUT8OjJeejFk9tj6YRyv3O3QMKH/s1000/oct%2016-k.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="584" data-original-width="1000" height="187" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpR1qBc7xWlRv8RHE54CgAKVINgC-OPk2A1L4sWbZS7h7DiAbO3NzCMPpT18uzgyAT3Fi9UxEW-1WKIpGkxI1mF33oQKYUR7GuPbOZs0sGFoha9q4IU21JRhOa2T_Q58bsHbqI94cdk6icYgI5z1MkoNoyJBQEhVfreaUT8OjJeejFk9tj6YRyv3O3QMKH/s320/oct%2016-k.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />However, the top lock was originally much close but was moved when a motorway was built right over where it was.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4NF3pMxFEC_BVu5B-eoIeFLvBTiCgF_SR0kHZA3LKRYJqt11auaEUmOPrE2GR6fNVr33a1fWF4mp7jjf6h_AR03dTTO8CdYcEHft2JBzV7valwi4pKSf0h5ahVv0In236FN7PhNqa-g1e0oyNcTCA6FAoVURhwUryN7LL6LY61EEHBYBMrLhYcmU0YtVe/s1000/oct%2016-l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="572" data-original-width="1000" height="183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4NF3pMxFEC_BVu5B-eoIeFLvBTiCgF_SR0kHZA3LKRYJqt11auaEUmOPrE2GR6fNVr33a1fWF4mp7jjf6h_AR03dTTO8CdYcEHft2JBzV7valwi4pKSf0h5ahVv0In236FN7PhNqa-g1e0oyNcTCA6FAoVURhwUryN7LL6LY61EEHBYBMrLhYcmU0YtVe/s320/oct%2016-l.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Not long and we passed through the very short Curdworth Tunnel, all 53 metres of it. Not worth putting on the head light! Before long the surroundings become industrial (or even post industrial) and not the most comfortable places to be overnight. We kept an eye on our mobile phone signals and opted for a spot a little before the MInworth locks and not too close to the main road that follows the canal for some while.<p></p><p>8.4 Miles - 13 Locks</p>Mike Toddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00067557327430064111noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6239989273407700909.post-18660470063677221312023-10-15T18:06:00.005+01:002023-10-15T18:38:23.930+01:00Glascote<p>Today's Canal : Coventry</p><p>Today has been very bright and sunny with hardly a cloud in the sky. It was chilly to start with (time for extra layers) but by mid morning it was much warmer. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7XkILLNamy7z2iEQiisAkGStmeM05pGwlmbZNzIvpJ7NuMl-CfbFLU6SEtwmJVzCNbnXHMxuZphtxB6TWMwWUk6fkgydXcKHvFzfz9dxL2KkyLq6jduxZG1v6B8QLpg-iLgCuoMuUTll82ze5o_J0axP6N0aQjwQeGDZgZ5o-4G1i80Og5SRwbKpjso1m/s1000/oct15-a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7XkILLNamy7z2iEQiisAkGStmeM05pGwlmbZNzIvpJ7NuMl-CfbFLU6SEtwmJVzCNbnXHMxuZphtxB6TWMwWUk6fkgydXcKHvFzfz9dxL2KkyLq6jduxZG1v6B8QLpg-iLgCuoMuUTll82ze5o_J0axP6N0aQjwQeGDZgZ5o-4G1i80Og5SRwbKpjso1m/s320/oct15-a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />We set off in good time with a lot of level cruising ahead of us.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7n7OoQ-RnCmQi9OTC3QCZiLbKzPmBks98s_s8M2wDDw8wyU6uxmsEB1FJl4nrLRugcJVLA9vg7WM8Fm0rn_bTKEhUMQEH0M6hVxecA1X75OHVZftNm2dLm8WbR3IE7iKz-RKvtzN_vwGMWp985kQ9l_hCL7OsZs2OQm_mcDaNzJ634056_IKz913XNmvH/s1000/oct15-b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="746" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7n7OoQ-RnCmQi9OTC3QCZiLbKzPmBks98s_s8M2wDDw8wyU6uxmsEB1FJl4nrLRugcJVLA9vg7WM8Fm0rn_bTKEhUMQEH0M6hVxecA1X75OHVZftNm2dLm8WbR3IE7iKz-RKvtzN_vwGMWp985kQ9l_hCL7OsZs2OQm_mcDaNzJ634056_IKz913XNmvH/s320/oct15-b.jpg" width="239" /></a></div><br />Oh no! Not that pic again.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFyXaDmGiR_ykvNnpfPomAcXF4SMd8yUmAi8uEQZt_xJk7KtEn-Vz7iyGRuQMPLM1_9X0WXFf55eGXo8W0ZH7Is0j2N_HxWUdRbpmZWr8NyaAU91FHy8IlbbKWMjPKzfDdfO1jPhzczeOYeTfnO1howtRQ2qGsgULzwiwsfmLUK5HaZ4s5ku3Lmc6kQ-BM/s1000/oct15-c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFyXaDmGiR_ykvNnpfPomAcXF4SMd8yUmAi8uEQZt_xJk7KtEn-Vz7iyGRuQMPLM1_9X0WXFf55eGXo8W0ZH7Is0j2N_HxWUdRbpmZWr8NyaAU91FHy8IlbbKWMjPKzfDdfO1jPhzczeOYeTfnO1howtRQ2qGsgULzwiwsfmLUK5HaZ4s5ku3Lmc6kQ-BM/s320/oct15-c.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Bright autumn sunshine really dos highlight the scenic views, even if few leaves have turned yet. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheAsNtBBMbsh6XVdeSTzKhvmITla4jp0D9KAYVW43lkc8ibKnsqFxuE7bG9ywxzKy8jyf7cjfYujegvXFcbSMXQckNIaJlicDUbX-3rXu898tj0Kc-THFH9t0E6-SlCqWX_KkcjlV59YajW7JgtBQYd3kvAOnoStys0_zE6ZSwiWCIwvMbfV180_IhZhZZ/s1000/oct15-d.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="543" data-original-width="1000" height="174" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheAsNtBBMbsh6XVdeSTzKhvmITla4jp0D9KAYVW43lkc8ibKnsqFxuE7bG9ywxzKy8jyf7cjfYujegvXFcbSMXQckNIaJlicDUbX-3rXu898tj0Kc-THFH9t0E6-SlCqWX_KkcjlV59YajW7JgtBQYd3kvAOnoStys0_zE6ZSwiWCIwvMbfV180_IhZhZZ/s320/oct15-d.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Hartshill was once an important part of the canal's maintenance capability, firstly for the original canal company and later British Waterways. Modern management techniques, with an added layer of political interference, mean that much less use if made of workshops like this, staff are more mobile and a lot of work is put out to contractors. However, this depot does show again that utilitarian buildings can still be made to look attractive.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1HEiFzFLZml2Loej4qKKgan9s_yVLqFbIbJxhaZNDcnafWhGasDyYdiW03-FgoznhKl8GADmlDs_vf1d078z3tSJnJduhtB6wGjfS3XUpWdjN3bP8cz-JXyWyf9uTRayH4ce7zvRMcxK574u7q5hRRPTkRz8x-WrEuA3JRg_MHRqJE8dtplJ3n3ym5Su5/s1000/oct15-e.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="543" data-original-width="1000" height="174" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1HEiFzFLZml2Loej4qKKgan9s_yVLqFbIbJxhaZNDcnafWhGasDyYdiW03-FgoznhKl8GADmlDs_vf1d078z3tSJnJduhtB6wGjfS3XUpWdjN3bP8cz-JXyWyf9uTRayH4ce7zvRMcxK574u7q5hRRPTkRz8x-WrEuA3JRg_MHRqJE8dtplJ3n3ym5Su5/s320/oct15-e.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />One of the major contractors specialising in work on waterways is Rothen who have a base at Mancetter. As well as building a small marina they are gradually smartening up the maintenance base. It looks as if yet another work boat hull is being made ready for action.<div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDhXbiXeAli_wsyFYr00S-xgMmw0SCzt-m145FdQxxWsbXZYL40Y2AcLoGabtIY2GvZWAIDn4iZiQPJM4XRvXR1WvanP7LDqoGu6kPK8xtm_q9ZK2XQ30xc3S8DJpksm3mjWIb0qUZPNg7zGj5WENuLqQoo81K5z-EwxTwQVEYUrfSwU86TMKXeU1GgWMd/s1000/oct15-f.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="556" data-original-width="1000" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDhXbiXeAli_wsyFYr00S-xgMmw0SCzt-m145FdQxxWsbXZYL40Y2AcLoGabtIY2GvZWAIDn4iZiQPJM4XRvXR1WvanP7LDqoGu6kPK8xtm_q9ZK2XQ30xc3S8DJpksm3mjWIb0qUZPNg7zGj5WENuLqQoo81K5z-EwxTwQVEYUrfSwU86TMKXeU1GgWMd/s320/oct15-f.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Today we have long looks at the passing scenic views so you too can have another glimpse.<br /><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCbPVzzsq22HnlEOsP0V10SOjeoJ04r_Tdiig529oD8eyz9qBGAWdS1hjLA2lcygzoMILEzx3HRdXzt_UUxFJj7lmfSrWYXVvjLZoHlOige4-NhFHJdbMhp0ASE1QudQMXb-PMGt95m0YfNCxVVfAN01GnN8NOkwd_Xgy5iC6wb_DLB7cFme3g_Ba9HeVV/s1000/oct15-g.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCbPVzzsq22HnlEOsP0V10SOjeoJ04r_Tdiig529oD8eyz9qBGAWdS1hjLA2lcygzoMILEzx3HRdXzt_UUxFJj7lmfSrWYXVvjLZoHlOige4-NhFHJdbMhp0ASE1QudQMXb-PMGt95m0YfNCxVVfAN01GnN8NOkwd_Xgy5iC6wb_DLB7cFme3g_Ba9HeVV/s320/oct15-g.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />We arrived at the top of the Atherstone flight of 11 locks just on 11 o'clock. Only a couple of volunteers on duty today (we were told that it is much harder to persuade volunteers to sign up for weekend rosters) One had to look after the office and small visitor centre at the top lock leaving the other to see what help he could give on the first three locks. We were following a single hander but even so we made good progress.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6-HJUsvxg23VIU2Nm-HgD7sr7btlsVBkZsl6jSRB_EdaBXRr8vygsYkGN_xxFct7nnpguhhhMkBJU-7ioLpDv04ZyDURqL1Dbhxpp6PIwA8DtR6HTogPG1artXUTUZZxWyjclES1nN_HpQjmOxmAAG-IfXEhIR2x03L6fyRx3HMpdnEgieDfs0EpD9bVI/s1000/oct15-h.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="738" data-original-width="1000" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6-HJUsvxg23VIU2Nm-HgD7sr7btlsVBkZsl6jSRB_EdaBXRr8vygsYkGN_xxFct7nnpguhhhMkBJU-7ioLpDv04ZyDURqL1Dbhxpp6PIwA8DtR6HTogPG1artXUTUZZxWyjclES1nN_HpQjmOxmAAG-IfXEhIR2x03L6fyRx3HMpdnEgieDfs0EpD9bVI/s320/oct15-h.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Two of the locks have recently been fitted with these warning signs which seem to have sparked some discussion. We wonder how they are seen to be correct as it is when the gates are <i>closed</i> that the greatest danger exists, especially when trying to get around the end of the balance beam to work the bottom gate paddles. On the other hand, it may be being a little clever and taking into account that visitors not used to canal terms may see the balance beam, as a gate. Presumably an incident has given rise to this signage.<p></p><p>After Lock 5, Andrew popped to the nearby Co-Op which we have used several times before, leaving two of us to continue down the flight. It turned out that this store has closed and is to be converted into a tesco. Fortunately Andrew was able to get what was needed at and Aldi (not our favourite store usually) as well as Profiterole Gateau for tonight's meal. (That was not on his shopping list!) <i>Later update:</i> Andrew never expected to go to the Co-Op and planned on Aldi all along . . .</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTBbIm4yYWFj4bSW_Yb1Wq7cdtFLQpzskPj_w1CN1y84yaT5Sq2BtFptFttqaM7PP8vIt6Siv8eh773JinTgE6CRuZp6OPFjq8TYJN2L0Ni2n1TnbCepeg2Bp50kB0bLq-HFvj612tHA7vYRbA6BF2b5qksADc_zUQnvEAF-oVeFy-LdqJdYcLrVNOEWF4/s1000/oct15-i.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTBbIm4yYWFj4bSW_Yb1Wq7cdtFLQpzskPj_w1CN1y84yaT5Sq2BtFptFttqaM7PP8vIt6Siv8eh773JinTgE6CRuZp6OPFjq8TYJN2L0Ni2n1TnbCepeg2Bp50kB0bLq-HFvj612tHA7vYRbA6BF2b5qksADc_zUQnvEAF-oVeFy-LdqJdYcLrVNOEWF4/s320/oct15-i.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMqiTyqLS48xQTrVcBbuMP_8tffOmyPZnnt47DDLhIFab_kEFp1WLj7bVny7fwpFkIl7gkdkS6NIE1yJ2K2OXeWlhqga-NxqdnV2Ibzqxc1XkiRcymb2ox75F0p1g6ar1iqM8lzqZ_3UG-9PhcFIhVTv6syUYUxmRIqjUJ4Ubt9HNNVxOQB7gl6teyv8XN/s1000/oct15-j.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="692" data-original-width="1000" height="221" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMqiTyqLS48xQTrVcBbuMP_8tffOmyPZnnt47DDLhIFab_kEFp1WLj7bVny7fwpFkIl7gkdkS6NIE1yJ2K2OXeWlhqga-NxqdnV2Ibzqxc1XkiRcymb2ox75F0p1g6ar1iqM8lzqZ_3UG-9PhcFIhVTv6syUYUxmRIqjUJ4Ubt9HNNVxOQB7gl6teyv8XN/s320/oct15-j.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />All of the locks at Atherstone once had working side ponds (several years ago we did manage to make one work) but all have now been abandoned and most of the paddles removed to prevent temptation to try!<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDgO0bdYCai_mGgPu8UZ63VorMqx-Aw3pzRG4pTb0xm_vo5wsGYzx-Y6V7LAylWXuzXlT1_fNGD8PHfRui2JJuSrxUncgz1fVrPFHgjdfbPsmU3ZOdEzLB5ry_XgfOhcQVqaL1aXaFU3MwTgGJSX4oUkuMAqFupNGrfYix7W-QwKuI-6L39Wvcm2pudZad/s1000/oct15-k.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDgO0bdYCai_mGgPu8UZ63VorMqx-Aw3pzRG4pTb0xm_vo5wsGYzx-Y6V7LAylWXuzXlT1_fNGD8PHfRui2JJuSrxUncgz1fVrPFHgjdfbPsmU3ZOdEzLB5ry_XgfOhcQVqaL1aXaFU3MwTgGJSX4oUkuMAqFupNGrfYix7W-QwKuI-6L39Wvcm2pudZad/s320/oct15-k.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />These are yet another design - these cannot be filled in as they also provide the bywash channels. We assume that the idea was to keep the ponds topped up so that they were generally available to use for upcoming boats.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB7spsRTeSFTjBEL23KbQqWEdrEK3LDgjj9mPgniPLWysIKHWs9THm5UynOwHZBtSc5H8kSUXFeri9Z0UJjNNmb9Mm8B2UAWId6UnGDvHX_eloGq5dbe9W9_pozNMj4ZMkwN5zomgAi9THC1ygWr9Ghjf6b3bpN5vaRe9gMZCK1BI2hh4-hpYOLB99wWGH/s1000/oct15-l.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="561" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB7spsRTeSFTjBEL23KbQqWEdrEK3LDgjj9mPgniPLWysIKHWs9THm5UynOwHZBtSc5H8kSUXFeri9Z0UJjNNmb9Mm8B2UAWId6UnGDvHX_eloGq5dbe9W9_pozNMj4ZMkwN5zomgAi9THC1ygWr9Ghjf6b3bpN5vaRe9gMZCK1BI2hh4-hpYOLB99wWGH/s320/oct15-l.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Only Lock 10 has had the blue sign treatment - at all the others boaters have to rely on the numbers carved in to the balance beams to know where they are! What is special about this one?<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4UlebVfVjysbXV6P-gQn9jfaP2yqL-q2n4sX-Gpar4mU724jVAOTBX_21nRjRiKteCsWSDQR7Eu4T5MqVCYm7PpIWXRfQCwBpxDkFVodlFFrrDZEE-rWn1hXsCS4jctnS_4M4QWiNLmtRigbQcbYYKZ7KeyYm2wm0MkGA3eTEzkGJxDlPsszsDVWznLZd/s1000/oct15-m.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="608" data-original-width="1000" height="195" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4UlebVfVjysbXV6P-gQn9jfaP2yqL-q2n4sX-Gpar4mU724jVAOTBX_21nRjRiKteCsWSDQR7Eu4T5MqVCYm7PpIWXRfQCwBpxDkFVodlFFrrDZEE-rWn1hXsCS4jctnS_4M4QWiNLmtRigbQcbYYKZ7KeyYm2wm0MkGA3eTEzkGJxDlPsszsDVWznLZd/s320/oct15-m.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Here we are at the bottom lock - as you can see, Andrew re-joined us with the shopping after about three locks. We left the bottom lock two hours and 11 minutes after starting - not a world record but adequately respectable for us! We do not have many records (if any) of our time non-stop as mostly we seem to have spent time going into town.<p></p><p>Below the lock there was a good mooring - handy as it was now lunch time. When we set off again we only went a short distance before the Grendon service block for a quick empty of the elsan.</p><p>We were then back into level cruising mode again. The direction of the sun and sometimes its brightness made photos a bit difficult so only a couple of selected views. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgnIivEcrlEStfeqjspc9fGz1g2ELaOuX9VZI2WuL1hN98XJXOOU8VGhg5ZXVEke5hyfltfqfFU4DvdbgNrQLD1I15V9BZx9ylVBSbHc1TpGKfKIBozbjW_RDb-B4ZVzec60dUhyphenhyphenSQ2M54L-HvQ7L0NhWx5KfzFBe2w4-zUrPz2qRWVHZQif8PqNRenyGn/s1000/oct15-n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="567" data-original-width="1000" height="181" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgnIivEcrlEStfeqjspc9fGz1g2ELaOuX9VZI2WuL1hN98XJXOOU8VGhg5ZXVEke5hyfltfqfFU4DvdbgNrQLD1I15V9BZx9ylVBSbHc1TpGKfKIBozbjW_RDb-B4ZVzec60dUhyphenhyphenSQ2M54L-HvQ7L0NhWx5KfzFBe2w4-zUrPz2qRWVHZQif8PqNRenyGn/s320/oct15-n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />We passed Alvecote, the Samuel barlow and the large marina. This has long been a haven for odl canal boats, some restored, some re-purposed and otherwise made very smart. Just three of many more in one picture.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX5QJoPYVE87mMFgMw9Q_nN-0cGZCeOoz-67y9TXOa0G5lDMzrAKzKGS_zUoxJh70fgYJDqODpRNTgSWGVYdtHWwPCXo-yfwXZcz8YB5rLd9HLFfAl_5_cJra9Vi15OOWJRpMnNdyWtroKAco886N5HFCzBFutU107sr1yrMBM3ZA8F8Uv6KJshshTnttx/s1000/oct15-o.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="567" data-original-width="1000" height="181" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX5QJoPYVE87mMFgMw9Q_nN-0cGZCeOoz-67y9TXOa0G5lDMzrAKzKGS_zUoxJh70fgYJDqODpRNTgSWGVYdtHWwPCXo-yfwXZcz8YB5rLd9HLFfAl_5_cJra9Vi15OOWJRpMnNdyWtroKAco886N5HFCzBFutU107sr1yrMBM3ZA8F8Uv6KJshshTnttx/s320/oct15-o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />From Alvecote through to Fazeley the canal runs through a pleasant mostly modern suburb of Tamworth. It is unusual in the number of bridges that still remain - no sooner had we passed through one and we were lining up for the next!<p></p><p>By now the sun was quite low in the sky, even if still very bright, but occasionally making it difficult to spot oncoming boats. On a day with much later sunset we might have continued down the Glascote Locks but we felt that at this time of year that would be a bit of a stretch that might leave us with limited mooring options. Hence we stopped in a place we have used before, just short of the locks.</p><p>14.5 Miles - 11 Locks</p></div>Mike Toddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00067557327430064111noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6239989273407700909.post-59730540574239294242023-10-14T18:35:00.005+01:002023-10-14T18:35:56.713+01:00BedworthToday's canals : Oxford, Coventry<div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzKpc8UxAtB0tPvSHx4Tbwba_LuBQE0xUpRtQ68dfUeG90BPbEywG81doh-Gulgsj0iJRdfeS1CEB4mTcgZ3w1QQuydtI-aheYVCFXB9-O6icvKzBNgqqmTQSOryJabgKR4C-L0gnMFMwdaEm1Vf-OHc_TEzA7IPw0cj2FFjupDqNdSIMwQGsEaC04_YgN/s1000/oct14-a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="546" data-original-width="1000" height="175" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzKpc8UxAtB0tPvSHx4Tbwba_LuBQE0xUpRtQ68dfUeG90BPbEywG81doh-Gulgsj0iJRdfeS1CEB4mTcgZ3w1QQuydtI-aheYVCFXB9-O6icvKzBNgqqmTQSOryJabgKR4C-L0gnMFMwdaEm1Vf-OHc_TEzA7IPw0cj2FFjupDqNdSIMwQGsEaC04_YgN/s320/oct14-a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />We awoke to another very different day - the sky was already bright blue but very much chillier. The morning continued that way although by the afternoon the sun had warmed everything up somewhat. Extra layers still needed.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP6l9mE00-OYCaTP0MPDHd5ZQkrk1lZ3zqPCLlCK8NKQtnFfULw_Ucrc2caCmUnOgrKovEOL2k_-7EzDqVqZoAhYn8ojNlgid89JFVLc6XDlbxk6ChDCXeeso1bCDDJ6ABrzDYguOThPxN_nGhwA2C4tSIJmjiPHzdBY4uT_8nIwzoZIQL8CCBjcdfctrm/s1000/oct14-b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="565" data-original-width="1000" height="181" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP6l9mE00-OYCaTP0MPDHd5ZQkrk1lZ3zqPCLlCK8NKQtnFfULw_Ucrc2caCmUnOgrKovEOL2k_-7EzDqVqZoAhYn8ojNlgid89JFVLc6XDlbxk6ChDCXeeso1bCDDJ6ABrzDYguOThPxN_nGhwA2C4tSIJmjiPHzdBY4uT_8nIwzoZIQL8CCBjcdfctrm/s320/oct14-b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Armada Wharf had signs that they had sold out of diesel. Perhaps they have had a better end to the season than they expected. All reports do suggest that it has been difficult for canal related business to predict their level of trade this year, often varying dramatically from one week to the next.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdUT5GC-rmKVlfiyVEn-vAeaucAEiK35zLPZU12Cdox3BVy7xhcZrtG9F9gSo0zY0BmWELxzRPQejiifh5Aj_hF1HBtNz3MxD48Nzr7qnZ7PNoobP7k-8A5HQRhVB6RhN1nGcVBsofwYJa90NuVmMtP3uCPoZUUHnPp4YP-isrp5Lry6gSgM7lbC3wCMWU/s1000/oct14-c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdUT5GC-rmKVlfiyVEn-vAeaucAEiK35zLPZU12Cdox3BVy7xhcZrtG9F9gSo0zY0BmWELxzRPQejiifh5Aj_hF1HBtNz3MxD48Nzr7qnZ7PNoobP7k-8A5HQRhVB6RhN1nGcVBsofwYJa90NuVmMtP3uCPoZUUHnPp4YP-isrp5Lry6gSgM7lbC3wCMWU/s320/oct14-c.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Another sunny canal view - but not a boat, lock or bridge in sight! What is our photographer coming to?</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXG0io5i2hh1q58w-Px12FDV8HgmoLugOI26OddUuUCRwGndyhtPzqmyIB1yO0oeY7rH6T9LhgNlDBGOtUDDaHJJ4hZW1dHYEBfkkMNoVLIMATtLtneQPKKC_JUbLidwILDgcHGP-6vJtjI1MQE5h1gYoRltU08GafqvBOFCJyDBDYuc0MzccYEC4L-CdC/s1000/oct14-d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="674" data-original-width="1000" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXG0io5i2hh1q58w-Px12FDV8HgmoLugOI26OddUuUCRwGndyhtPzqmyIB1yO0oeY7rH6T9LhgNlDBGOtUDDaHJJ4hZW1dHYEBfkkMNoVLIMATtLtneQPKKC_JUbLidwILDgcHGP-6vJtjI1MQE5h1gYoRltU08GafqvBOFCJyDBDYuc0MzccYEC4L-CdC/s320/oct14-d.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />These three seem content that no rain is expected today.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6_0UXyOpD1XLhawDcuKQ2VHi8i9lrNLKpdtmb9UZuPJnB2q-AHYXYx6uL3Wxwr_Iv4u8rPIAM4p9hqA-Na4rDVCz1sOP76ywP7N0x2F4yyxhtM64HthWLEUQptsk9uLrpbEzsVXbNSGHgmIjKALEahiG6j8UH9MoRffcGUxUMlLfGdJEdJiN2XAgmZyII/s1000/oct14-e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="551" data-original-width="1000" height="176" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6_0UXyOpD1XLhawDcuKQ2VHi8i9lrNLKpdtmb9UZuPJnB2q-AHYXYx6uL3Wxwr_Iv4u8rPIAM4p9hqA-Na4rDVCz1sOP76ywP7N0x2F4yyxhtM64HthWLEUQptsk9uLrpbEzsVXbNSGHgmIjKALEahiG6j8UH9MoRffcGUxUMlLfGdJEdJiN2XAgmZyII/s320/oct14-e.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />We could not read the sign on this piece of fencing as it was in small print and facing the wrong way (for us). However, it seems to have been regularly ignored.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKUeJ2-lTQiXROMvVhSwaepKHZNhZIvBbRcWeUW0-bm6gAxgYD9vLby5JnovoaY0aRT1xZd3E7mGruMtwlrLuatppVeBkGR7e8llLohbbb4cACvX1Lco0Q5j2lsNhyphenhyphen9GFRxB9zrvkCaJObILNh8JiNY29C-NYabVL_FgQYfCO2x66BjPHtT4wTa5Yo76qC/s1000/oct14-f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="535" data-original-width="1000" height="171" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKUeJ2-lTQiXROMvVhSwaepKHZNhZIvBbRcWeUW0-bm6gAxgYD9vLby5JnovoaY0aRT1xZd3E7mGruMtwlrLuatppVeBkGR7e8llLohbbb4cACvX1Lco0Q5j2lsNhyphenhyphen9GFRxB9zrvkCaJObILNh8JiNY29C-NYabVL_FgQYfCO2x66BjPHtT4wTa5Yo76qC/s320/oct14-f.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />About 45 minutes later we came across this work site where it seems that the towpath is being renovated. Rothen seemed oblivious to the obstruction they were leaving over the weekend. No real need to leave the workboats doubled up. Just beyond we saw another piece of fencing with what looked like the same notice except that here the fence was now flat on the ground!</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg56l-b9MgUfk921_X93GINNuGxeyid-JvLpuOKUQ2AH3bxvGo0nhquehSAeAy7PwiK448TGtbz_ur41jcNqrgJLyl7lQskNyL7nKVD-_g89LGnUiPejy1hawPhttw-liwSw7Gy3aBc-wtaO2aXa4-5IN9VHh6vLBz7cDFq-tRnpiPJEabIAhe70r_2j1yA/s1000/oct14-g.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="559" data-original-width="1000" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg56l-b9MgUfk921_X93GINNuGxeyid-JvLpuOKUQ2AH3bxvGo0nhquehSAeAy7PwiK448TGtbz_ur41jcNqrgJLyl7lQskNyL7nKVD-_g89LGnUiPejy1hawPhttw-liwSw7Gy3aBc-wtaO2aXa4-5IN9VHh6vLBz7cDFq-tRnpiPJEabIAhe70r_2j1yA/s320/oct14-g.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The canal was definitely very much busier today and we gradually joined a line of boats - here you can just see two boats ahead and there were another two behind us.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBI1_BDTN0wTZ5pFYNakjimaHs6g2K8ReWab762TGZAOwiFOm40C2BKRNv_Ca94w7iQPHquM6HgasAFRZgYzkwhFeC6SIvKlpYqnuovdexJ2NKAmrTHBAtBt9LuXqA7pFvyfXSi0GW9GDdRD3ynDerrnCIusLWLVrdJhpiALx-G-nUoDJeww4vzAILRLuT/s1000/oct14-h.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="559" data-original-width="1000" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBI1_BDTN0wTZ5pFYNakjimaHs6g2K8ReWab762TGZAOwiFOm40C2BKRNv_Ca94w7iQPHquM6HgasAFRZgYzkwhFeC6SIvKlpYqnuovdexJ2NKAmrTHBAtBt9LuXqA7pFvyfXSi0GW9GDdRD3ynDerrnCIusLWLVrdJhpiALx-G-nUoDJeww4vzAILRLuT/s320/oct14-h.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />And then the two became three. We certainly found that, with almost no overtaking opportunities, the pace of the convoy is at the speed of the slowest!<span> And the slowest is always at the front . . .</span></div><div><br /></div><div>When we arrived at Hawkesbury Stop Lock there was inevitably a queue but we opted to have lunch by mooring just before. By the time we set off again the queue had disappeared. No pix of the lock as the sun was in the wrong direction and, with the service block having its own queue we were a little busy finding a way of emptying the elsan and then getting to an unoccupied water point.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivCxZcD6YkuuoA9H6tPBCx8C57qoDzm_ld8wzN5HbyIUkYXNg6yx8KTVKi9Y3ZVqhEyT92WN4rw80HWvTLzlL4vJbgkWoGem_Zr0AVgtP21a1rBv6HYRkIeyM3SW5r-EBHvTkBR2tp634SVZXf5TN7mOrEeDFPEChojV5e-Vn93gSBEa9lHVMoEQgcnTSd/s1000/oct14-i.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="559" data-original-width="1000" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivCxZcD6YkuuoA9H6tPBCx8C57qoDzm_ld8wzN5HbyIUkYXNg6yx8KTVKi9Y3ZVqhEyT92WN4rw80HWvTLzlL4vJbgkWoGem_Zr0AVgtP21a1rBv6HYRkIeyM3SW5r-EBHvTkBR2tp634SVZXf5TN7mOrEeDFPEChojV5e-Vn93gSBEa9lHVMoEQgcnTSd/s320/oct14-i.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />We continued up the Coventry Canal, with yet another obligatory photo opportunity, Charity Dock. We could not easily see all of it as there were boats moored - we do not recall them in that spot before.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRc6MFykfSLPv4FaTXiWls2WUWDRELlDHh3-_F7r0cTlw1KbsBobztvWLsxvZ-KbRsOwdRpBsU2NdUCyyqqHFmEKsUbO0ds98Yb7WshEKvUEUKXPeCbZZaBOoVrn-JPatokfACX4B2PHQuXqxEws8fP0OO6By_eE4TiVoZfmqqQhVIGWn2Juaq_rHlf1O5/s1000/oct14-j.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="638" data-original-width="1000" height="204" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRc6MFykfSLPv4FaTXiWls2WUWDRELlDHh3-_F7r0cTlw1KbsBobztvWLsxvZ-KbRsOwdRpBsU2NdUCyyqqHFmEKsUbO0ds98Yb7WshEKvUEUKXPeCbZZaBOoVrn-JPatokfACX4B2PHQuXqxEws8fP0OO6By_eE4TiVoZfmqqQhVIGWn2Juaq_rHlf1O5/s320/oct14-j.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The Stig is still there!</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEgNkMTW15Yak9qJuPOO8Ycq5m62XJEG1JafYv3zPG3s0AjR2frN8mTuwiuSN2n7ezaSAN5mNmU9RLYMG4pNnL0zshR0HtaTyofUvmQqdg3YGJIMnjsarXO4UX7CGGHEf2pCu6ZbAOwxqNj3iBft2WPu6k_67S37PmPzReuOskBa5LWdKhLDiDn19AnP49/s1000/oct14-k.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="589" data-original-width="1000" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEgNkMTW15Yak9qJuPOO8Ycq5m62XJEG1JafYv3zPG3s0AjR2frN8mTuwiuSN2n7ezaSAN5mNmU9RLYMG4pNnL0zshR0HtaTyofUvmQqdg3YGJIMnjsarXO4UX7CGGHEf2pCu6ZbAOwxqNj3iBft2WPu6k_67S37PmPzReuOskBa5LWdKhLDiDn19AnP49/s320/oct14-k.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />After Marston Junction this huge new industrial development began to loom into view.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFQ_7PYvSBGk4MF1HxPuqZwGpoCun-QJok2MRTAlcZiFZ9kygOsgMKZgxWutoZXb_BvFGLD7H5eZlz8rN5DPpEq_2gsCo56_mgqDVwiM1uuOIB5lFAp07sTLrfW0hUDcg6zfFxQ3Hi03eYL7jjxAzH_S0DNajbwnqP3nOZyMXUB8gGZEqtTcmPDCRBAFBE/s1000/oct14-l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFQ_7PYvSBGk4MF1HxPuqZwGpoCun-QJok2MRTAlcZiFZ9kygOsgMKZgxWutoZXb_BvFGLD7H5eZlz8rN5DPpEq_2gsCo56_mgqDVwiM1uuOIB5lFAp07sTLrfW0hUDcg6zfFxQ3Hi03eYL7jjxAzH_S0DNajbwnqP3nOZyMXUB8gGZEqtTcmPDCRBAFBE/s320/oct14-l.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />As we came close to the canal end of the site we could see that it is still being finished off. Rhenus is a German company providing supply chain logistical services on an international scale. Basically, a lot of big sheds, large fleets of trucks and significant computing power (perhaps located in one of the equally huge data centres we saw near Slough) Looking at old maps we see that it is built on former agricultural land. not one of the many coal mines or quarries that once dominated Bedworth.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhblmvqGhyphenhyphenUOiPjtL_4B1iW1TqMimUQvE4WJWSfdp2N2Ou7-44xTxte-YON_deReFbMT972M4qg8AV8eapOkQqcZtTwRzeb2lC0A-M1CBbkFHFs_kApm0lEtaPFWiNOf0eOZfgd6h99CCy6U_e1qflqNTV93ePwKLzFSkzxeItqEloY2nJg3s3aU9brxQMg/s1000/oct14-m.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="589" data-original-width="1000" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhblmvqGhyphenhyphenUOiPjtL_4B1iW1TqMimUQvE4WJWSfdp2N2Ou7-44xTxte-YON_deReFbMT972M4qg8AV8eapOkQqcZtTwRzeb2lC0A-M1CBbkFHFs_kApm0lEtaPFWiNOf0eOZfgd6h99CCy6U_e1qflqNTV93ePwKLzFSkzxeItqEloY2nJg3s3aU9brxQMg/s320/oct14-m.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />On the other side of the canal is a very large housing estate just beginning to take shape.</div><div><br /></div><div>With the sun close to setting we finally moored just after Boot Wharf, opposite the allotments.</div><div><br /><div>18.5 Miles - 1 Lock</div></div>Mike Toddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00067557327430064111noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6239989273407700909.post-89586595790300646392023-10-13T17:10:00.000+01:002023-10-13T17:10:07.250+01:00Rugby<p>Today's Canals : Grand Union, Oxford</p><p>We set off in good time, just after a wide beam that had been booked to come through the tunnel first thing (they are restricted to their use of the tunnel for safety reasons which underline the argument that this part of the Grand Union was never really intended for wide beam barges, above Berkhamsted)</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjltjMyVqqqov2vvNfG_r0AQ_Fl34LYSUfRBFSGZOseIcglBs7woIZIt4WPyWf31-RWqg5jRQS1LfMv_wqQwty2e1SwsAECyvCDZ72qBmhVjpNudjKJgNKJ8YBvvtwr3B0ZEbCg_hLZ7yyOuVy1yZoNNf53OyKVxynuhbnF97tBV3-lqBVcejCSL1ArIyFb/s1000/oct13-a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjltjMyVqqqov2vvNfG_r0AQ_Fl34LYSUfRBFSGZOseIcglBs7woIZIt4WPyWf31-RWqg5jRQS1LfMv_wqQwty2e1SwsAECyvCDZ72qBmhVjpNudjKJgNKJ8YBvvtwr3B0ZEbCg_hLZ7yyOuVy1yZoNNf53OyKVxynuhbnF97tBV3-lqBVcejCSL1ArIyFb/s320/oct13-a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />At the first lock we noticed on the bottom gates that they were installed in 1997, 26 years ago. Since they are expected to last around 30 and still seem in reasonable condition, apart from boater damage to the closing edges of the gates, that is not bad going.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ_FLrxxSXp_neV6kRakvLDPrDfi9Iq66rUIGQTA9ggnoP6IM8py1-K6G2tdd8QFcyAZ5pb5NlPkxfDSaDL4DPKh157tWtwSRSAfIc2ygq_aHVGqp8IGWfwTTXuByyAT8FjCp_yKfsokVegGW0XgKq383bp-hpMLf9JabAszeMyJiw9MWHj6_m4aeF99iJ/s1000/oct13-b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ_FLrxxSXp_neV6kRakvLDPrDfi9Iq66rUIGQTA9ggnoP6IM8py1-K6G2tdd8QFcyAZ5pb5NlPkxfDSaDL4DPKh157tWtwSRSAfIc2ygq_aHVGqp8IGWfwTTXuByyAT8FjCp_yKfsokVegGW0XgKq383bp-hpMLf9JabAszeMyJiw9MWHj6_m4aeF99iJ/s320/oct13-b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The weather forecast suggested that the morning would be fairly good and, indeed, the temperature was much warmer than yesterday, but that there was a high probability of heavy rain from between 2 and 3 this afternoon. Hence we planned to press on with lunch-on-the-go to get as far as we could in the dry. We even had a few blue patches in the sky at times.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu4cjKfnOm49CsoxqasIgZp3dILXsNx2iDsmTSDJG-rVqoyDz2ZjXLughoALSpoNvzX_dRD7s71Wvri-KOHyk3XzWo9apzeBN2ov5DW1vElyDVen9aPxOCiO07Asvu5_kwPZhmVmw3i99CLZfdIUYHOReGl9rAgfeJb_lNAmlrAXXWRem07zr8lTAdwDQ9/s1000/oct13-c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu4cjKfnOm49CsoxqasIgZp3dILXsNx2iDsmTSDJG-rVqoyDz2ZjXLughoALSpoNvzX_dRD7s71Wvri-KOHyk3XzWo9apzeBN2ov5DW1vElyDVen9aPxOCiO07Asvu5_kwPZhmVmw3i99CLZfdIUYHOReGl9rAgfeJb_lNAmlrAXXWRem07zr8lTAdwDQ9/s320/oct13-c.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />After two locks all three of us were in action and we made good progress and exited the sixth lock at the bottom just a few minutes over an hour later.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvUXMQiFDrz4NkdYnGotUGpDBRKS039CixcDvECC50vgeSnXio-QTEh5RdGmqLg5XcSS3nRYr8DgTtlv87ngz6W_3l7OPh-tSCHwN8Z1g9rn1pg4WDy9JATvkCnSY13jSL2Heeobhn-SHQtmFJvAusJ99ULu5JmG45dqHFkzEt-POjQR5T0uBIIHxp4dKE/s1000/oct13-d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvUXMQiFDrz4NkdYnGotUGpDBRKS039CixcDvECC50vgeSnXio-QTEh5RdGmqLg5XcSS3nRYr8DgTtlv87ngz6W_3l7OPh-tSCHwN8Z1g9rn1pg4WDy9JATvkCnSY13jSL2Heeobhn-SHQtmFJvAusJ99ULu5JmG45dqHFkzEt-POjQR5T0uBIIHxp4dKE/s320/oct13-d.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The boatyard below the flight seemed to be busy with work - we were told a few days ago that one of the Wyvern boats was on its way to be overplated - the company makes its boats last as long as possible as can be seen from the quite early registration number of this one.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD_iXFD_52iCyLk0BpMI13-55g9Pctv8_M9zdz3Py0MPPueik896qPC6o_hOYgxyEHKLA5U00C_kqQ3UHu1nKwoXHzbEnrs-DHqQnoLy6oNitOnRi20ThZSdn2E8wg94U7zrTOO2Nvn4JLvPILtQQky-ZkBh5TyXVM7q_6vcHteqTvNbWpUTZgjKI4ZOhi/s1000/oct13-e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD_iXFD_52iCyLk0BpMI13-55g9Pctv8_M9zdz3Py0MPPueik896qPC6o_hOYgxyEHKLA5U00C_kqQ3UHu1nKwoXHzbEnrs-DHqQnoLy6oNitOnRi20ThZSdn2E8wg94U7zrTOO2Nvn4JLvPILtQQky-ZkBh5TyXVM7q_6vcHteqTvNbWpUTZgjKI4ZOhi/s320/oct13-e.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />This footbridge carries the towpath over a secondary entrance to Braunston Marina. As can be seen, it is quite a steep climb up and down, A few years back someone left money for it to be replaced by a more accessible form but, alas, the money turned out not to be enough and the discussion about what can be done seems to be continuing.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsOSs07snp-JEL8LA0QluhiVKFsM8YJVRCYEbxmUkRJxsc0C7KR2QxuB8XsPMc8Os3QAmBsmfBQrwD-8qlxBatWA7rtSd5NllZAhPUX_Q1FVLvx0bCdUYI9WNxrdH2t7w2y94lS4chqD3_QeeEUMvN89nSwAhHo6ynj6cIxdBrv_OhK1K2-ZNGzZwS2O9r/s1000/oct13-f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsOSs07snp-JEL8LA0QluhiVKFsM8YJVRCYEbxmUkRJxsc0C7KR2QxuB8XsPMc8Os3QAmBsmfBQrwD-8qlxBatWA7rtSd5NllZAhPUX_Q1FVLvx0bCdUYI9WNxrdH2t7w2y94lS4chqD3_QeeEUMvN89nSwAhHo6ynj6cIxdBrv_OhK1K2-ZNGzZwS2O9r/s320/oct13-f.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The obligatory photo of the iconic former toll house.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDsGoTPaCO2sM8xiy1PetqUAr_tYOK-Be8_9AGRdRjOk2CzcWwL_T1VDzCHK_xJcl12ffWrpZsPLHeaLaHw0zu5d7h1AwIocIhWJsm9tyG2DklehpgNlbW6eIHg3_ye2GC1RJg0nQlh2mdFzNonVBtLQ2SOOT7CmwGYx8IDDg8WxwWu4tpoI36ljDC6tOc/s1000/oct13-g.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDsGoTPaCO2sM8xiy1PetqUAr_tYOK-Be8_9AGRdRjOk2CzcWwL_T1VDzCHK_xJcl12ffWrpZsPLHeaLaHw0zu5d7h1AwIocIhWJsm9tyG2DklehpgNlbW6eIHg3_ye2GC1RJg0nQlh2mdFzNonVBtLQ2SOOT7CmwGYx8IDDg8WxwWu4tpoI36ljDC6tOc/s320/oct13-g.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />We made a good decision to stop to use the water point and elsan beside the towpath just before the junction as the main facility just ahead on its own mooring appeared to be out of action. We made a brief stop at Midland Chandlers for the annual supply of Elsan Blue and Marine 16.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-vN9P2XpY1Wpli_JNLVpJ6iO41sZ-M4Prl1fIb0ryGIa-NeQEm-xEuAUTZkFtJOJU5WlPjFOUFUE0_ij_L-KYAZpN9e4B65iF2XQKz0ONGpMCADw3-b4tj_dUt6D2_mGTRgndyhyv3MA8BRKbt2AWG4ZGKdbzlTq0txhAXOXVEWA4s3TL-Mq0oTy0GxWR/s1000/oct13-h.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-vN9P2XpY1Wpli_JNLVpJ6iO41sZ-M4Prl1fIb0ryGIa-NeQEm-xEuAUTZkFtJOJU5WlPjFOUFUE0_ij_L-KYAZpN9e4B65iF2XQKz0ONGpMCADw3-b4tj_dUt6D2_mGTRgndyhyv3MA8BRKbt2AWG4ZGKdbzlTq0txhAXOXVEWA4s3TL-Mq0oTy0GxWR/s320/oct13-h.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />After the junction we were now on the northern section of the Oxford Canal. Long ago straightening of the original contour canal also created wider (for boats) bridges which is why wide beam boats can make it to Dunchurch Pools, but not beyond. (At Hillmorton the locks are narrow). This bridge seems to have had some extensive damage to its parapets and a significant repair project is underway.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEIERpvv7WdILxguSK-7d7uGNMi-Y_UZLfS_t8yScZyi89jJmo9gOhP5rL_G96d4iIqneGE1JbnJf6aYHMgulsijHS3tmM1Emi_hUqARfkWLQgo7slNTBYUotX2Tfo2c39-UOTb6YxBbVTLbRpSlRIOG4pqETzEMLDonOXdb0MLz-DVf7DND0rWVzUvEmk/s1000/oct13-i.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEIERpvv7WdILxguSK-7d7uGNMi-Y_UZLfS_t8yScZyi89jJmo9gOhP5rL_G96d4iIqneGE1JbnJf6aYHMgulsijHS3tmM1Emi_hUqARfkWLQgo7slNTBYUotX2Tfo2c39-UOTb6YxBbVTLbRpSlRIOG4pqETzEMLDonOXdb0MLz-DVf7DND0rWVzUvEmk/s320/oct13-i.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />As we passed the entrance to Dunchurch Pools marina the projected heavy rain clouds were beginning to drift in rom the north, yet we were still much warmer than yesterday.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTpowvEhuChrd0g2Y4-jWdcgAnxhXQr0w2fG0X31k9TOp5aeyqVXn4VJmAHWWOa3fsbACBPEwS5ONp2beAGM8Y1ozmdoIbaQdMSyf0Gs4rpfYMB0nZonv-JAkHfKq5yfPUCK6ZY6L1GeOLqIjjC9hntUEoInQi1NDGnDMdc8mWRl_tIg0OyR7dRzGION3e/s4032/oct13-j.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTpowvEhuChrd0g2Y4-jWdcgAnxhXQr0w2fG0X31k9TOp5aeyqVXn4VJmAHWWOa3fsbACBPEwS5ONp2beAGM8Y1ozmdoIbaQdMSyf0Gs4rpfYMB0nZonv-JAkHfKq5yfPUCK6ZY6L1GeOLqIjjC9hntUEoInQi1NDGnDMdc8mWRl_tIg0OyR7dRzGION3e/s320/oct13-j.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />After two hours of level cruising - and meeting far more boats on the move than we have seen in a long while - we arrived at the top of the three paired Hillmorton locks. These were the first narrow locks we have passed through since leaving Oxford at the end of April. back to side ponds - the winding mechanism between the two locks once operated a paddle to let water flow from one lock to the adjacent one, acting as a kind of cheap side pond.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFImzPxMYUaSgZDvyIWN4JrUxKP1LmHvf2WteHjzUMUgAwBzph6Lse0MN7Us2r_OVNzIOTatQix2J0SWvf1Pg7bVyBeN_6yOuZlT-53hwzC9FSeQYneUuPvidoJPSsHiXrKXO_N7Ze6J3HvRyB5FAAnee8hZQAubsXRZ2HFHWi5Zoc3SO3Wjq5HbnXWtaa/s1000/oct13-k.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFImzPxMYUaSgZDvyIWN4JrUxKP1LmHvf2WteHjzUMUgAwBzph6Lse0MN7Us2r_OVNzIOTatQix2J0SWvf1Pg7bVyBeN_6yOuZlT-53hwzC9FSeQYneUuPvidoJPSsHiXrKXO_N7Ze6J3HvRyB5FAAnee8hZQAubsXRZ2HFHWi5Zoc3SO3Wjq5HbnXWtaa/s320/oct13-k.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />After Hillmorton we had another long level pound. Again, there were times when it was very bright and sunny.<p></p><p>We were fortunate to find a spare mooring close to the planned supermarket shop. Mike was allowed to catch up on the delayed two days of blogs whilst the other two went to tesco. The promised heavy rain, alas, arrived as they were walking back and we abandoned any ideas of moving on. Today is forecast to be much better weather.</p><p>11.1 Miles - 9 Locksa</p>Mike Toddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00067557327430064111noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6239989273407700909.post-45622457777582636132023-10-12T18:00:00.136+01:002023-10-13T11:20:55.459+01:00Braunston<p> Today's Canal : Grand Union</p><p>As with yesterday, we had no mobile signal for either network at our overnight mooring location. (We forgot to upload yesterday's earlier when we did have a signal so hopefully some time tomorrow we will manage to catch up - if you are reading this then you know that at some point we succeeded!)</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKewT3RZ_1BOfkkbF-b5adHNtIa7JXh4e2FHCZpDxy919NQCas69ISnkVTLSPIw9hTMF6pcYQJhwBfK8iSjg0eXO5bKQ2WymYIvQV-3SFp7IubDXMDxbqWgwqLjeuR6jREmUXHSfzUorseRwEo6d54pTAf4BYFEd_gXEa3ScSg51GqdiC5N-hofNBZHyze/s1000/oct12-a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="555" data-original-width="1000" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKewT3RZ_1BOfkkbF-b5adHNtIa7JXh4e2FHCZpDxy919NQCas69ISnkVTLSPIw9hTMF6pcYQJhwBfK8iSjg0eXO5bKQ2WymYIvQV-3SFp7IubDXMDxbqWgwqLjeuR6jREmUXHSfzUorseRwEo6d54pTAf4BYFEd_gXEa3ScSg51GqdiC5N-hofNBZHyze/s320/oct12-a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Another change in the weather as well: dry all day and still overcast but very much cooler. Almost time for more layers of clothing. We set off quite promptly and immediately entered into Blisworth Tunnel. This one is very straight and the far end can be seen even before getting into the tunnel. The building by the entrance was once a blacksmith and was operating until a few years ago. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiknSfN2nchBIkPMzhUP87Y74nIm2LdUXUAp8RI9JCdMriPyOdnQTKHNTaW0xayDQjAmb9ctLA1GpyXSxGgrTiNUo-Nbtkk1GI-Xlh0lpcxdVJzikaOik_wgHAeLBy3137bink4vObsdi978NwPHwIdeq4i0iOOSVTnvZRGT08bqhfko1aMMKVH0O_luVzs/s1000/oct12-b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="555" data-original-width="1000" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiknSfN2nchBIkPMzhUP87Y74nIm2LdUXUAp8RI9JCdMriPyOdnQTKHNTaW0xayDQjAmb9ctLA1GpyXSxGgrTiNUo-Nbtkk1GI-Xlh0lpcxdVJzikaOik_wgHAeLBy3137bink4vObsdi978NwPHwIdeq4i0iOOSVTnvZRGT08bqhfko1aMMKVH0O_luVzs/s320/oct12-b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Half an hour later and we emerged out the other end without having to pass an oncoming boat. A short distance and we passed through the village of Blisworth. The large building beside the main road bridge is now apartments but originally a lour mill and then as a warehouse in WW2.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxssy1DnxSfujdW01vDdXvFYJMCj_oHyP2Agta6k0ooaHyA5axmPPLTCVZabsb9YkKVLHRvND4QFo9fP2hii7pB_oyFbVgisPZw7nwWUDHSnupLS-w62f-1-6Z6Fas3zH1zFc2g2bNzV-iyYWWgWHGElfgSVqSd-Y51YzWA-j0kbt__dckWHMNbxBq_5M_/s1000/oct12-c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="570" data-original-width="1000" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxssy1DnxSfujdW01vDdXvFYJMCj_oHyP2Agta6k0ooaHyA5axmPPLTCVZabsb9YkKVLHRvND4QFo9fP2hii7pB_oyFbVgisPZw7nwWUDHSnupLS-w62f-1-6Z6Fas3zH1zFc2g2bNzV-iyYWWgWHGElfgSVqSd-Y51YzWA-j0kbt__dckWHMNbxBq_5M_/s320/oct12-c.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Next door is a small boatyard and moorings. At the back is an unusual vehicle - a Convoy Carriage.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRdPiL-9VU3RJEAZsuBqbT4lUi_WXMsGRrSUVGI0GkIGVi82B7hVRXRf5nqjRHR3UIZclH6VJbzP_58Skt6DmL3LeGZDBqVzzKap5OJn3FmVusca98smsvHV0xQy0ZwEcHGwhtWRyF29AiD_6GZU1_uOftdJH7e70u-uAfYqQcHtAdNVnK0yT784hfEcxg/s1000/oct12-d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="648" data-original-width="1000" height="207" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRdPiL-9VU3RJEAZsuBqbT4lUi_WXMsGRrSUVGI0GkIGVi82B7hVRXRf5nqjRHR3UIZclH6VJbzP_58Skt6DmL3LeGZDBqVzzKap5OJn3FmVusca98smsvHV0xQy0ZwEcHGwhtWRyF29AiD_6GZU1_uOftdJH7e70u-uAfYqQcHtAdNVnK0yT784hfEcxg/s320/oct12-d.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />We spotted the steering on this boat - quite unusual for a canal boat. We wondered about the gearing between the wheel and the rudder - does it need a lot of turns and if so how tiring is it to steer on canals where a boat is changing direction almost all of the time and often very sharply.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinWZs9af7kqRhyphenhyphenm3PRgYVuvgruHp7fhy7CRLye-VEdgD3yvXpWtVObO2IkLjuGftAkzuDicULmzR7aqnxwfXA60UEiuzeym3NXo7Tc1VUVwflrQ5Y7yXnBlgI-ryxaqT7jKpel4i4qOfUKINB5os0wn-mFv0duCgf3WNanmIqqlGL_CwFTEZ0Xd2v-YzJL/s1000/oct12-e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="494" data-original-width="1000" height="158" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinWZs9af7kqRhyphenhyphenm3PRgYVuvgruHp7fhy7CRLye-VEdgD3yvXpWtVObO2IkLjuGftAkzuDicULmzR7aqnxwfXA60UEiuzeym3NXo7Tc1VUVwflrQ5Y7yXnBlgI-ryxaqT7jKpel4i4qOfUKINB5os0wn-mFv0duCgf3WNanmIqqlGL_CwFTEZ0Xd2v-YzJL/s320/oct12-e.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Again the canal keeps close company with the main line with its very frequent trains. A little to the south the four track line divided into two, with the other line going through Northampton. It seems that all of the freight must go that way - there are certainly some large logistics bases on that route. Here the direct route to Birmingham passes over head, which is does in a number of places.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQH4AWOJjZT0KPOV99bP7s9ztaQS-PV8fQtoZsna3WyIQXyjgc0VF6pouUsITV8dMqem1MicRATAKSSQS8lmyBQuGHysDOHM329CrWtIqhIQNaj6WBNfYcrbhnFFCgltM9lPNs1i1HmZbKo8zKpwkzWoDnhtNBCpGOz0m1waPhkjRLILseP9Dq75WGB11_/s1000/oct12-f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="554" data-original-width="1000" height="177" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQH4AWOJjZT0KPOV99bP7s9ztaQS-PV8fQtoZsna3WyIQXyjgc0VF6pouUsITV8dMqem1MicRATAKSSQS8lmyBQuGHysDOHM329CrWtIqhIQNaj6WBNfYcrbhnFFCgltM9lPNs1i1HmZbKo8zKpwkzWoDnhtNBCpGOz0m1waPhkjRLILseP9Dq75WGB11_/s320/oct12-f.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Just after are the remains of another railway bridge - a branch line from Peterborough and Northampton that joined the main line nearby but was closed in the Beeching era.<p></p><p>We called very briefly at the services alongside Gayton Junction with the Northampton Arm, just klong enough to empty the elsan and dispose of rubbish. We did not even have time to tie up!</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxxq6qeO-Md_qBKLW7VGgR1rlF6BJjPAdRq1EOuhrL0726WlPc6H5VirODp6_jZGvxOEEwvxkfNY7ax-IRGkJzhZfedLLJakxyDNSVvZ8oC329UfkZS7TMUlMaDVgvPQdhrHSQPFnXixPOH0_i8W4us1FMqIe2wiyYeAwf5Lml2TW6MlwlpMiNrtkpeWSR/s1000/oct12-g.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="554" data-original-width="1000" height="177" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxxq6qeO-Md_qBKLW7VGgR1rlF6BJjPAdRq1EOuhrL0726WlPc6H5VirODp6_jZGvxOEEwvxkfNY7ax-IRGkJzhZfedLLJakxyDNSVvZ8oC329UfkZS7TMUlMaDVgvPQdhrHSQPFnXixPOH0_i8W4us1FMqIe2wiyYeAwf5Lml2TW6MlwlpMiNrtkpeWSR/s320/oct12-g.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Just beyond the junction is this splendid bridge that combines a local road bridge with a towpath turnover. We puzzled about the need for this as there is a towpath on both sides. Looking at the oldest OS map we can find online, the labels indicate that because there is no bridge across the joining canal at the junction, horses pulling boats headed down the mainline have no route. Instead, they cross over on this bridge, continue on he opposite bank for 200m or so and then cross back to the other side to continue on southwards.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKySyXw1yf_Li609tKsnCAhA2DTijbOxAMFjI62YHm-44Z_Dg_kvJHN91fkfsJMILkd_4g1abUCJ_gsbKSirj2X8fQCm1HTjZacw0R8Zba5MynKGQq-qTcMdDsARxjNWZwWX1EuOBjqtGico2RhGYwTtyY6a8xt-v7DBd7-qho2dxkAtSNHkhS2LQLAZTR/s1000/oct12-h.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKySyXw1yf_Li609tKsnCAhA2DTijbOxAMFjI62YHm-44Z_Dg_kvJHN91fkfsJMILkd_4g1abUCJ_gsbKSirj2X8fQCm1HTjZacw0R8Zba5MynKGQq-qTcMdDsARxjNWZwWX1EuOBjqtGico2RhGYwTtyY6a8xt-v7DBd7-qho2dxkAtSNHkhS2LQLAZTR/s320/oct12-h.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Sometimes we see features that we just cannot explain. This indentation seems to be a common erosion after the offside bank has collapsed - it is possible just to see the line of the bank below the waterline. However, the far end of the inlet has been built up with stone - why?<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUCRrZYAqTuG7V26atJM_KV24P-BNO5fcQiTd_04zle9CLqFEPe4a1oyYW19C-IuU7UHNEwVG5rGO-PH0yTPhV2oYW67osWAP4scBm86NpeqraKlFlrTk1kL1wxDw2UoTqbDUtBCPot-2X38mCG6AVBKFyC1AQ-5tdP8osZY9FNA8fK5hUoOvJyT6eUOxO/s1000/oct12-i.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="554" data-original-width="1000" height="177" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUCRrZYAqTuG7V26atJM_KV24P-BNO5fcQiTd_04zle9CLqFEPe4a1oyYW19C-IuU7UHNEwVG5rGO-PH0yTPhV2oYW67osWAP4scBm86NpeqraKlFlrTk1kL1wxDw2UoTqbDUtBCPot-2X38mCG6AVBKFyC1AQ-5tdP8osZY9FNA8fK5hUoOvJyT6eUOxO/s320/oct12-i.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The new Weedon bypass is now fully in operation and plenty of traffic was making use of it. But, although it is no doubt structurally sound, it surely cannot have won any prizes for its architectural merit? Sometimes we seem to have forgotten the concept that the Victorians taught us that functional buildings can also be made beautiful, or at least imposing.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjMzRopKv4mh9Mb76Bf6B3WBfbfh2FVU1tHAdAY8qXQaNcZ05aqR7l_BMAf05ZbiO8v0ObWw4gKtF9LdVMN3RVq83xoJljDX593bKwSjLFf9arhEw1q8cGZSxoiH7_Prcg6ibuv0Qww1zPuAi-ryFFG6R9skm_-H7m3zEbq2X2D3BHJKj8kzdvVs3t39Qy/s1000/oct12-j.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="664" data-original-width="1000" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjMzRopKv4mh9Mb76Bf6B3WBfbfh2FVU1tHAdAY8qXQaNcZ05aqR7l_BMAf05ZbiO8v0ObWw4gKtF9LdVMN3RVq83xoJljDX593bKwSjLFf9arhEw1q8cGZSxoiH7_Prcg6ibuv0Qww1zPuAi-ryFFG6R9skm_-H7m3zEbq2X2D3BHJKj8kzdvVs3t39Qy/s320/oct12-j.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Does this qualify as the boatyard with the fewest facilities?<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx3Jxt9e5GTY5WsyCBS74e58zjzyvwb8iVPafGdMzhmEcliHxN65XhjeAQ7DaiKdT6iA6yc6B9B49OhpPKu9dwRk0MUNEVG28YEnuUAOSQ3kLuE7I9Kp5KS-tOkt92wx2faq932EfP3Rp2AM1XeNqScn01Es5J7w8m0gMu5SJubqtsdrEE9__lo3AICC9L/s1000/oct12-k.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="547" data-original-width="1000" height="175" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx3Jxt9e5GTY5WsyCBS74e58zjzyvwb8iVPafGdMzhmEcliHxN65XhjeAQ7DaiKdT6iA6yc6B9B49OhpPKu9dwRk0MUNEVG28YEnuUAOSQ3kLuE7I9Kp5KS-tOkt92wx2faq932EfP3Rp2AM1XeNqScn01Es5J7w8m0gMu5SJubqtsdrEE9__lo3AICC9L/s320/oct12-k.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />We had lunch on-the-go just in time to start up the Buckby flight. At the bottom is a marina that specialises on being the most well known supplier of all grades of boats to the capital. (Often to newcomers to boating!)<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeZmuJv_Z95t9KkBhoDyuPIfKljgR5QE7BCxFINMxG2kmMPNHeQl4Jmh0Cif_v5PJbhcMH6FtpgnrAmK2eUHu2ywMu46q1SfZ4mOiFfFB_H1o57PVkAlqMCPnt38H5SpJ_FkE0W802GQBTt6h6fYqez-Qog_2GLPCItFs26lcTkYOuVgW_K_OBfw5C-xeB/s1000/oct12-l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="542" data-original-width="1000" height="173" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeZmuJv_Z95t9KkBhoDyuPIfKljgR5QE7BCxFINMxG2kmMPNHeQl4Jmh0Cif_v5PJbhcMH6FtpgnrAmK2eUHu2ywMu46q1SfZ4mOiFfFB_H1o57PVkAlqMCPnt38H5SpJ_FkE0W802GQBTt6h6fYqez-Qog_2GLPCItFs26lcTkYOuVgW_K_OBfw5C-xeB/s320/oct12-l.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />We arrived at the locks just after another boat we had been following for some time and they made great lock sharing partners, very happy to enter each lock together, which speeds up the process significantly as it is not necessary to take a line to the bank. At the second lock two surveyors were setting up to take some measurements. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4PhQnOQk3V9560E8Swa4MH12b8isAjoFE6mQRuOcIyZ3sCb1LSPebjvW6ueYbxzW6N2eqSngQz6QK5rEuFmp_Y99-pfSg60gONDykUeKcFAsFxk6SGMQLtw7ZrKPK2v_wCL2Zv3OaP1OkavKtOC0pWvS5tCdbVbJdhlbTX4C3fkgwvMbzF8NNjX1e2uzY/s1000/oct12-m.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="555" data-original-width="1000" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4PhQnOQk3V9560E8Swa4MH12b8isAjoFE6mQRuOcIyZ3sCb1LSPebjvW6ueYbxzW6N2eqSngQz6QK5rEuFmp_Y99-pfSg60gONDykUeKcFAsFxk6SGMQLtw7ZrKPK2v_wCL2Zv3OaP1OkavKtOC0pWvS5tCdbVbJdhlbTX4C3fkgwvMbzF8NNjX1e2uzY/s320/oct12-m.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Two very competent steerers smoothly entering the next lock.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD5t91ShEfAk1MPgINmEgsO4mIG4SB-xYiFY4CLPx6teMO3wksfh0AtBclrab8ATAKJAe6qWLX5AmoOMz_V0z4iPULAN-7yJRZswRZ6KYeqFJPO6LzoQbsnfw50E2HwdfW0LN-w3LfJ39U2oQ6gzcUO1Lqx5xuTsvP7AZAlmJEX9C6YlNW2g9CjgNkuhoi/s1000/oct12-n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="594" data-original-width="1000" height="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD5t91ShEfAk1MPgINmEgsO4mIG4SB-xYiFY4CLPx6teMO3wksfh0AtBclrab8ATAKJAe6qWLX5AmoOMz_V0z4iPULAN-7yJRZswRZ6KYeqFJPO6LzoQbsnfw50E2HwdfW0LN-w3LfJ39U2oQ6gzcUO1Lqx5xuTsvP7AZAlmJEX9C6YlNW2g9CjgNkuhoi/s320/oct12-n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Part way up the flight is a well-know must-photo garden with a red signal, red signal box and a cannon to repel boarders.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBh9gLW3cVAem4CxMEBTUJL0zvzHApaRnh35beStHDIM5fUNKv04DI_gI_3OSS6Zd199_0cfiCH8C4y19KCLKRzRRYuKLfBcHPur6oOZCg9fqZ16ngOPUzVqi8eTBEoK3af4SCtMIs0j51jBEWMK6XNGegQF37B2Qr6GsSbDTebuS1yNX78JCrO8IRpqz_/s1000/oct12-p.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="594" data-original-width="1000" height="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBh9gLW3cVAem4CxMEBTUJL0zvzHApaRnh35beStHDIM5fUNKv04DI_gI_3OSS6Zd199_0cfiCH8C4y19KCLKRzRRYuKLfBcHPur6oOZCg9fqZ16ngOPUzVqi8eTBEoK3af4SCtMIs0j51jBEWMK6XNGegQF37B2Qr6GsSbDTebuS1yNX78JCrO8IRpqz_/s320/oct12-p.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />We had wondered in the past why this particular lock uniquely in this flight has a footbridge across the bottom of the lock. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1jDTz1Ii8m79TTx7QcUmH_VNQABRPdItfiKCLl4wX-Cf0rO4z1oPiwF38zaCkUGqdYdouQCn5A_sJ8DLl7VSbRcqtBocBZkW0eiG2u6wxa5ayYZJRzqryYkwCQf5TMUB1Zv7gM5BTsRKmnbxQfGU5CYbBxmoD_Xp_7rQVF6SHLAFfuYFC-2tWdAtNEuxa/s1000/oct12-o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1jDTz1Ii8m79TTx7QcUmH_VNQABRPdItfiKCLl4wX-Cf0rO4z1oPiwF38zaCkUGqdYdouQCn5A_sJ8DLl7VSbRcqtBocBZkW0eiG2u6wxa5ayYZJRzqryYkwCQf5TMUB1Zv7gM5BTsRKmnbxQfGU5CYbBxmoD_Xp_7rQVF6SHLAFfuYFC-2tWdAtNEuxa/s320/oct12-o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Perhaps this sign gives a clue as it indicates that George Lane crosses here to give access to some cottages alongside the towpath just above the lock. Mike chatted to the chap with the wheelbarrow who lives in the cottage with the signal.He has been here for a long time and bought the signal from ebay and the phone box cost £175 with an advert in a local paper! When they first moved here the side pond to the lock was still in place, if by then disused. Later, when the cottage was connected to mains sewerage the waste was tipped into the side pond which he now tends as a useful quiet area to sit and watch passing boats!<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQGcXc99FL-11NdMzYQYQJYX9ccR2HUy4hDCUYxf6yf7NOP2yAspBieV782FtoEk2fq_RFZm-6U-rmXWv-vanhaD4Pl5Z5XNjtK4oWbXECEQEp8jSvBgrrJBZ_lhSlXtiCjLklLrWzPdqhyu0z3Pd2mQjGtherXge2G3x5-LA3kZL4eWMaegjavTsnZUja/s1000/oct12-r.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="535" data-original-width="1000" height="171" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQGcXc99FL-11NdMzYQYQJYX9ccR2HUy4hDCUYxf6yf7NOP2yAspBieV782FtoEk2fq_RFZm-6U-rmXWv-vanhaD4Pl5Z5XNjtK4oWbXECEQEp8jSvBgrrJBZ_lhSlXtiCjLklLrWzPdqhyu0z3Pd2mQjGtherXge2G3x5-LA3kZL4eWMaegjavTsnZUja/s320/oct12-r.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Another red signal!<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj1b4LKgNadCjT08vcegjw1lt7Ow-lv2sBGqVq_hD69WRySuvy7T-bSakwtmryGZV1srpc8UKNjFBp6nQxiFT6a-r_-P7LhNXMgAfGMdDypS7PEVnOWhq84-KApO1NryY7N7BArrCjn4veJiqG2Oq8OBWaP8fJuj8l-HMeZrmOv2PV9mbR_ochhJFDtqPI/s1000/oct12-r.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="535" data-original-width="1000" height="171" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj1b4LKgNadCjT08vcegjw1lt7Ow-lv2sBGqVq_hD69WRySuvy7T-bSakwtmryGZV1srpc8UKNjFBp6nQxiFT6a-r_-P7LhNXMgAfGMdDypS7PEVnOWhq84-KApO1NryY7N7BArrCjn4veJiqG2Oq8OBWaP8fJuj8l-HMeZrmOv2PV9mbR_ochhJFDtqPI/s320/oct12-r.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />At the top lock, where the busy A5 crosses the canal is the popular pub The New Inn. We have read that initially the pub for the boatmen in the flight was in one of the cottages at the bottom lock but was later replaced by this bigger and better establishment - the cottages reverted to being private houses.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirIXkJgbcvE8r9_9aJJNyzpyeRNnSonXxuHyPP5FYi8nC0UQPzhi4gstX3lzhqEBLqsnPBRNVKY3X2d8UqxdASwyqtQiYd_Tz4kHFHsLd0hnn2ICg9crbWVedyJn_ERHToFGXxdVNUfhNR-Erdshkq9uSfxgB2aiqQq-o_qZh3OUGH9NmOMKkPda8AJaGE/s1000/oct12-s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="535" data-original-width="1000" height="171" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirIXkJgbcvE8r9_9aJJNyzpyeRNnSonXxuHyPP5FYi8nC0UQPzhi4gstX3lzhqEBLqsnPBRNVKY3X2d8UqxdASwyqtQiYd_Tz4kHFHsLd0hnn2ICg9crbWVedyJn_ERHToFGXxdVNUfhNR-Erdshkq9uSfxgB2aiqQq-o_qZh3OUGH9NmOMKkPda8AJaGE/s320/oct12-s.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />After Norton Junction we continued along the main line to Braunston Tunnel. Unlike Blisworth this one is not as straight and sometimes it is possible to see through or spot the light on an on coming boat but agt other tines the bends block the view. We passed three boats coming the other direction, one of which was rather nervous at the prospect and came to a halt makes it much harder for them to avoid taking up more than their share of the tunnel.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIjt-7B3_knD189R5-XS8KrdIB5mkmcPLVBSECho-C2NosRR1idsxGAtJy2EXWR3RAhb6-SrdhtYHD3482sLORpHda9wqR_A9gXriefB7pweP0N6iq46ftX4s3zrTC7vZpYzOVMMmu9rWMpAT0Rsmv-1feHgSF-u0yzgeRqj8IbPSkYzcr_-7kYwcQtC1v/s1000/oct12-t.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="535" data-original-width="1000" height="171" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIjt-7B3_knD189R5-XS8KrdIB5mkmcPLVBSECho-C2NosRR1idsxGAtJy2EXWR3RAhb6-SrdhtYHD3482sLORpHda9wqR_A9gXriefB7pweP0N6iq46ftX4s3zrTC7vZpYzOVMMmu9rWMpAT0Rsmv-1feHgSF-u0yzgeRqj8IbPSkYzcr_-7kYwcQtC1v/s320/oct12-t.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Shortly after coming out of the tunnel we found our overnight mooring on the the 2 day Visitor Moorings right above Braunston Locks. Alas, yet again no mobile phone signal.<p></p><p>18.3 Miles - 7 Locks</p><div><br /></div>Mike Toddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00067557327430064111noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6239989273407700909.post-4708235488348743172023-10-11T18:00:00.270+01:002023-10-13T15:25:55.621+01:00Stoke Bruerne<p>Today's Canal : Grand Union</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizISlV0zv6vzWXsvHO4g-Fg2zLLFm8sGHGzJzdSvbvAMC-MQEJBKvUZHO088ZyouLR7rU5k_bf1kGNed3icwEm51UwQqcdWRUTeW1Q9lAcQ0d72tFdZVhKXzeBdyP9XXXlG2FEIwujw152H1dJkYovuS6urtzDHNLyRpMBT-oxcgEYwLf3UcDwzv1btIhO/s1000/oct11-a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizISlV0zv6vzWXsvHO4g-Fg2zLLFm8sGHGzJzdSvbvAMC-MQEJBKvUZHO088ZyouLR7rU5k_bf1kGNed3icwEm51UwQqcdWRUTeW1Q9lAcQ0d72tFdZVhKXzeBdyP9XXXlG2FEIwujw152H1dJkYovuS6urtzDHNLyRpMBT-oxcgEYwLf3UcDwzv1btIhO/s320/oct11-a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />It was quite grey as we set off and remained that way. However, it was far from cold.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix-3kvBzny6TxmUGVndWKSgPublFV6yijGRwhcxB4LhJRlv9vO8EEb1tgrZ4PmJd3laBjnN7EcJtBDPaH1NDgVrCCUjCxu06RH8XFt9BoGhIqY4eo0Nunc3aDd5bHd5pARVfBmZxBHloMz1RKu0Fy-ovBxRUgO1F5b35HnAdOzcGNkqGmURWjGb7PjApAQ/s1000/oct11-b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="575" data-original-width="1000" height="184" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix-3kvBzny6TxmUGVndWKSgPublFV6yijGRwhcxB4LhJRlv9vO8EEb1tgrZ4PmJd3laBjnN7EcJtBDPaH1NDgVrCCUjCxu06RH8XFt9BoGhIqY4eo0Nunc3aDd5bHd5pARVfBmZxBHloMz1RKu0Fy-ovBxRUgO1F5b35HnAdOzcGNkqGmURWjGb7PjApAQ/s320/oct11-b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Just around the corner we spotted <i>nb Free Spirit</i> - see right for their blog. We have not met them IRL, only virtually for some time now, and would have stopped for a brief chat but non-one seemed about. That's canal encounters for you!<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqxmZ1zIHBCX4sQMaCLfqNkPSHndL45gzsksIvqT11IUJiolQXuqeHTaMDF7Ypo1FX5yhIK4o9zA1XxU591z3-Muk1chakkUx3RdrGye5NeJBC6XA-_eCbcnyoNnAZFMH5utS-sFnW9QMUSXekU_cFxuT7HwoeFWQwQG50BSGEhsQYFmDcRwlgWSmRPWYy/s1000/oct11-c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="685" data-original-width="1000" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqxmZ1zIHBCX4sQMaCLfqNkPSHndL45gzsksIvqT11IUJiolQXuqeHTaMDF7Ypo1FX5yhIK4o9zA1XxU591z3-Muk1chakkUx3RdrGye5NeJBC6XA-_eCbcnyoNnAZFMH5utS-sFnW9QMUSXekU_cFxuT7HwoeFWQwQG50BSGEhsQYFmDcRwlgWSmRPWYy/s320/oct11-c.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Whoever thought that allowing people to hire e scooters a<span>nd abandon them at will needs a lesson - or two - in human behaviour. Let's hope that they do not take over from shopping trolleys as underwater obstacles for unwary boaters and their props.</span><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFHL42ZcYG3ORe9G_PzkRfVVdOM9w21P0oEIdg_TBwQfPvo500_3CI3-WUGpYV-SkzjJAbb4gT9eFXpxZQpsPFzojuRDpiddATXN_OY4c13CzSj7lNj3hJMFZ_oQanbYPI-M3AdK4LChnQw4K0L0Gk3TYg2f44f7Yg92RzjvgAVxRBOSss9wFITHU54B1K/s1000/oct11-d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="657" data-original-width="1000" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFHL42ZcYG3ORe9G_PzkRfVVdOM9w21P0oEIdg_TBwQfPvo500_3CI3-WUGpYV-SkzjJAbb4gT9eFXpxZQpsPFzojuRDpiddATXN_OY4c13CzSj7lNj3hJMFZ_oQanbYPI-M3AdK4LChnQw4K0L0Gk3TYg2f44f7Yg92RzjvgAVxRBOSss9wFITHU54B1K/s320/oct11-d.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Close by was this piece of open air art work. Not sure what the artist is telling us but it certainly brightens the location.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZYzY_LtjV87mA_zTVqXE4TSAO4eu1hVxM0FCNxiNL_H0WsxuiGC5aBSwSNqIonCfziB30gjs0ISR6_WjMK2p_U_7IHyILuDB6kfpvBzjMRDjL6u-OKnuo1Z_I8_qCl9q8iiCAsqC_YUlFVXFzHSD6LukOz4-8QCRAWV0A0rRdr1Y4ObwdOc9WezlyQ3fh/s1000/oct11-e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="603" data-original-width="1000" height="193" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZYzY_LtjV87mA_zTVqXE4TSAO4eu1hVxM0FCNxiNL_H0WsxuiGC5aBSwSNqIonCfziB30gjs0ISR6_WjMK2p_U_7IHyILuDB6kfpvBzjMRDjL6u-OKnuo1Z_I8_qCl9q8iiCAsqC_YUlFVXFzHSD6LukOz4-8QCRAWV0A0rRdr1Y4ObwdOc9WezlyQ3fh/s320/oct11-e.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />A little later we saw a pair of fuel boats pulling alongside a customer. They left us as much space as they could and we gingerly edged our way past. We did not see anyone on the customer's boat so perhaps this was a pre-arranged delivery with payment to follow. A number of the fuel boats offer this service to their regulars so that they can get a top up even if they are out at work. Just after we had left them behind then there was a crew decision that we ought to top up just in case, so we edged back, hoping that no-one else would appear wanting to get by. The crew quickly tied us to their side and efficiently delivered the fuel. A most helpful crew, friendly and chatty. A service that many liveaboard boaters come to depend on especially in the upcoming winter season.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi__e9B83qzfjFV4CVOgE4HSrCefWPUCGfzJ_g-ggk3afjFkyfh2L8e7ZTdVgL5hMMXPX0UORlWBPhAal6kOXc3QV-vw0DK-_iDzAr05AKicuPpo7f3Hv0aS52T5vQfxBQ-khOP5cDwZyUu_zroswvszmDpJNLQhTZOjipd5CfgsMoVMR52IwW-Mm_sdES0/s1000/oct11-f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="688" data-original-width="1000" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi__e9B83qzfjFV4CVOgE4HSrCefWPUCGfzJ_g-ggk3afjFkyfh2L8e7ZTdVgL5hMMXPX0UORlWBPhAal6kOXc3QV-vw0DK-_iDzAr05AKicuPpo7f3Hv0aS52T5vQfxBQ-khOP5cDwZyUu_zroswvszmDpJNLQhTZOjipd5CfgsMoVMR52IwW-Mm_sdES0/s320/oct11-f.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />We noticed the steering on this Dutch style boat, somewhat unusual on the canals. We wondered how tiring it might be as canal boats have to change direction very frequently often quite sharply.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYi0X-Lp5mfq3bIQVLg-ImyrCAJ_H499bmLv2fJToWQrI_uOod2viFcNBs0mXGaFAjSCxyCICqyGoPS5YHjiMpeFNB2BT6iBZzDAblA9Q8-5741_rouaE1NERDNGBuiHtdzpNJNQSH19glzUjMr9YnZyBjvyLbOXZHshigUGuKdGV3oIIRUaPNAgqnZ8d7/s1000/oct11-g.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="660" data-original-width="1000" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYi0X-Lp5mfq3bIQVLg-ImyrCAJ_H499bmLv2fJToWQrI_uOod2viFcNBs0mXGaFAjSCxyCICqyGoPS5YHjiMpeFNB2BT6iBZzDAblA9Q8-5741_rouaE1NERDNGBuiHtdzpNJNQSH19glzUjMr9YnZyBjvyLbOXZHshigUGuKdGV3oIIRUaPNAgqnZ8d7/s320/oct11-g.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Just occasionally we had a glimmer of sunshine.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2soJ_oxy8mrpDBPv0fnsVq3et7laClwsq1gmuieuGmkjr5SnucdJGedreOquhseS5MUbkIqUCK-adeNVzkXW2dGMomS2eiWYOOEs9R2Xczft-LlyShYEFdeF0EUM2Sgqc3MlAaS07K1wPpC2GOKaY0RhA1nuZzdykylS143GgvgKtqn775BeMQp4eNMPi/s1000/oct11-h.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="621" data-original-width="1000" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2soJ_oxy8mrpDBPv0fnsVq3et7laClwsq1gmuieuGmkjr5SnucdJGedreOquhseS5MUbkIqUCK-adeNVzkXW2dGMomS2eiWYOOEs9R2Xczft-LlyShYEFdeF0EUM2Sgqc3MlAaS07K1wPpC2GOKaY0RhA1nuZzdykylS143GgvgKtqn775BeMQp4eNMPi/s320/oct11-h.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Nearing Wolverton we passed yet again under the West Coast Main Line - Wolverton was once an important railway town with a substantial engineering works, but no longer.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbtW93u7kHABW8Nx-piFJHlavog7SpbgidftAMrsGwcG9r3RyQv2VijCiwq35uubWrE-jjJzhxIArOMP6q84lVyphbYFBepvlHco9rlTrGmMDiN4I6AgopcXyYrKSj7CNzTBPuC9t-CByXQjjHUDXyuq1Prlxy5AhjFHWJZ7Uw-xY6nEmQuLBhtp12QH0b/s1000/oct11-i.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="671" data-original-width="1000" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbtW93u7kHABW8Nx-piFJHlavog7SpbgidftAMrsGwcG9r3RyQv2VijCiwq35uubWrE-jjJzhxIArOMP6q84lVyphbYFBepvlHco9rlTrGmMDiN4I6AgopcXyYrKSj7CNzTBPuC9t-CByXQjjHUDXyuq1Prlxy5AhjFHWJZ7Uw-xY6nEmQuLBhtp12QH0b/s320/oct11-i.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>As we closed on the bridge we could see a team working on a floating platform, we think carrying out a, hopefully routine, inspection. HS2 will not be finished soon enough if there is a need to close this line.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkEmj1tRekyeocOdCFtyNxDafTVEdSSSt-Xg8i2BV6iJOyq4UwbrDjlnO6FXQHDGy1oS4zkOBax3tW_kSbjmox4r9s9NLWWQ97yd69imZejMYlZEzMBjv4TQJuI-xoQGrssBYLgITJVFt4P5nFZ13CKInWuYzIE857g6rlKEupLPbFiBR1d4PYz8MqAe9j/s1000/oct11-j.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="549" data-original-width="1000" height="176" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkEmj1tRekyeocOdCFtyNxDafTVEdSSSt-Xg8i2BV6iJOyq4UwbrDjlnO6FXQHDGy1oS4zkOBax3tW_kSbjmox4r9s9NLWWQ97yd69imZejMYlZEzMBjv4TQJuI-xoQGrssBYLgITJVFt4P5nFZ13CKInWuYzIE857g6rlKEupLPbFiBR1d4PYz8MqAe9j/s320/oct11-j.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Just beyond the bridge this railway connection over time is commemorated in Bill Billings well-known, and much photographed, mural, all in black and white and completed in 2011.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv4f-0C_K4ipJDAjxpgdHSxcsy4avIdOO3Wn5zYX-830HAQGEhTljsct8aB4zEZrMf6jGys4-YWOs6FaEsbk0qghs98M23xUPm_TNP3KQnw7fK1z_q8jkDunqInJHQF2-3VQ6e_2fVztz-oNsyQKm37VUqnFUyWjINO5erqqIYAKBkfAqClxDMdSPCKkaD/s1000/oct11-k.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="549" data-original-width="1000" height="176" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv4f-0C_K4ipJDAjxpgdHSxcsy4avIdOO3Wn5zYX-830HAQGEhTljsct8aB4zEZrMf6jGys4-YWOs6FaEsbk0qghs98M23xUPm_TNP3KQnw7fK1z_q8jkDunqInJHQF2-3VQ6e_2fVztz-oNsyQKm37VUqnFUyWjINO5erqqIYAKBkfAqClxDMdSPCKkaD/s320/oct11-k.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />We moored on the rings beside the footbridge that gives access to the main road above and a choice of three supermarkets - Tesco, Lidl and Asda. Leaving Mike to guard the boat Andrew and Christine went to Tescon for supplies, especially bread and milk, We seem to be getting through those rather quickly.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi04pwYiLigOkmzGU5tj3OXJv5pMKDh4_Zz9jUsAwIzZMa9K2BCRXr5Ck-FtcHPC0Nfoj7O1fxPfmkZxyLj7ryLnxkbhaVYpJYupvEtjxBzeWbH4KAI9TahT15WIMVSABxzWlKIOUtCaCZsDDjQcZSfrs0dQX3i6sxO0CI25oCmPpPwtAqYpq9ASfUr6wPk/s1000/oct11-l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="539" data-original-width="1000" height="172" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi04pwYiLigOkmzGU5tj3OXJv5pMKDh4_Zz9jUsAwIzZMa9K2BCRXr5Ck-FtcHPC0Nfoj7O1fxPfmkZxyLj7ryLnxkbhaVYpJYupvEtjxBzeWbH4KAI9TahT15WIMVSABxzWlKIOUtCaCZsDDjQcZSfrs0dQX3i6sxO0CI25oCmPpPwtAqYpq9ASfUr6wPk/s320/oct11-l.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCc9a9DvNJbv03FBHde8PDnxLbVSfeb8btAZb57Dqwz1H_0PolLnVKuYA7oqIv-Y4iIsjz3TZm2Mv7Q85C1-MBsPEZMG8WcUmusY62pHfiRcOchAx3n175UQTpvu3lg2Hk0JpyLst1oFBRLQ_OHJMbC6_4evA0Xswc5RTD6IYiUfW_d5k_wRe2IAYYTO27/s1000/oct11-m.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="620" data-original-width="1000" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCc9a9DvNJbv03FBHde8PDnxLbVSfeb8btAZb57Dqwz1H_0PolLnVKuYA7oqIv-Y4iIsjz3TZm2Mv7Q85C1-MBsPEZMG8WcUmusY62pHfiRcOchAx3n175UQTpvu3lg2Hk0JpyLst1oFBRLQ_OHJMbC6_4evA0Xswc5RTD6IYiUfW_d5k_wRe2IAYYTO27/s320/oct11-m.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Cosgrove Lock is not deep and is alongside the junction with the former Buckingham Arm.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNhm35WH5WZLEnIAdAzXRaXh8wJZRYo6_UZrIAonG8RFMQ5SJjHJDWmEDV33VJeiOmqrlPbFF8iYMXL3F78oKKfsKmAH6ZkFWu0VXLKh7e3yVXYD2_k8gkrPN5REl7ZF6BTQhgEsRUacRW7JJ06tFDqPTvEp45tKOSfTk2S7iZhLDax_PcJOscYeP4vj08/s1000/oct11-n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNhm35WH5WZLEnIAdAzXRaXh8wJZRYo6_UZrIAonG8RFMQ5SJjHJDWmEDV33VJeiOmqrlPbFF8iYMXL3F78oKKfsKmAH6ZkFWu0VXLKh7e3yVXYD2_k8gkrPN5REl7ZF6BTQhgEsRUacRW7JJ06tFDqPTvEp45tKOSfTk2S7iZhLDax_PcJOscYeP4vj08/s320/oct11-n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Also close is a former wharf which still has the remains of some tram tracks visible in the ground, once used to help speed up loading and unloading the boats.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7Bbi78cbzamdat7CwRMXCVRgYC_HDXrUwKIfzLhfmWwR4c0B0OUTIUqd6njojGwVcGsD1oovPbbm-WOJM0qbRpCEsKVCTpJpQqf0tNNSQ-Vk7JtcjZTXabMd1H65QoExGlhF5pUWKbjr2HGn-ZNGNwkPCw1ZcfSe7a0FfywyYotmWpEQQLOG_fOhOemQ3/s1000/oct11-o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="557" data-original-width="1000" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7Bbi78cbzamdat7CwRMXCVRgYC_HDXrUwKIfzLhfmWwR4c0B0OUTIUqd6njojGwVcGsD1oovPbbm-WOJM0qbRpCEsKVCTpJpQqf0tNNSQ-Vk7JtcjZTXabMd1H65QoExGlhF5pUWKbjr2HGn-ZNGNwkPCw1ZcfSe7a0FfywyYotmWpEQQLOG_fOhOemQ3/s320/oct11-o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Solomon's ornamental bridge was built from soft sandstone and much of the decoration is no longer visible. However, this time we did spot a little section that shows just how decorative it once was.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0njnAaP3LZJ2xABGef849RjFmzOEllgCqXZrf_1fEmMz4d7cM5DdMP5pvFTnmDq-m8tNX7MLwx_qSDdnYn0gT_3GB8W7Pa1ZNeqytk-gK0RiZqJv__6jslsFEz5xw-08aCg5prA0_xb2lVhQYjckYbK1-lXZ1iNKsQkUzQFnTMSWgQWeVv_YpxjgzfaNv/s1000/oct11-p.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="557" data-original-width="1000" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0njnAaP3LZJ2xABGef849RjFmzOEllgCqXZrf_1fEmMz4d7cM5DdMP5pvFTnmDq-m8tNX7MLwx_qSDdnYn0gT_3GB8W7Pa1ZNeqytk-gK0RiZqJv__6jslsFEz5xw-08aCg5prA0_xb2lVhQYjckYbK1-lXZ1iNKsQkUzQFnTMSWgQWeVv_YpxjgzfaNv/s320/oct11-p.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />At last we arrived at the seven locks at Stoke Bruerne. Part way up and the foliage alongside added some bright colour. Most of the trees have yet to gain their autumnal leaves. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUfC2cliW-rVbObtt7_Z-PNgwTbcRodF6C4z3g8X11iC3hB63sh9ylhMjTEJ9RewvOujCpt5NlgUOUEfIdshf3IgmATZC6ZK2BN0x7ScO6JzAJJat0nm8_IPDFMVhJ7sZzMHui8lTPH_U62QCLipyTKpvjquu5taw8YeuDNbh0dnbqgviJewRuZZjYOcmG/s1000/oct11-q.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUfC2cliW-rVbObtt7_Z-PNgwTbcRodF6C4z3g8X11iC3hB63sh9ylhMjTEJ9RewvOujCpt5NlgUOUEfIdshf3IgmATZC6ZK2BN0x7ScO6JzAJJat0nm8_IPDFMVhJ7sZzMHui8lTPH_U62QCLipyTKpvjquu5taw8YeuDNbh0dnbqgviJewRuZZjYOcmG/s320/oct11-q.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />We wrote about side ponds in an earlier blog. On this flight they are well preserved, even if no longer used. This picture shows a bit more clearly how they worked - unlike those at Hanbury, these ponds have two chambers and a paddle for each has to be opened and closed in turn. The extra effort to save some of the water was not popular with the boatmen and women and the canal companies found the extra cost and maintenance not to be good value. Hence they were gradually abandoned but still stand as testament to the inventiveness of engineers in the canal era who continually sought to improve the system. Sometimes innovations worked well but not quite always!<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibJk4rrJGp_UvGSfrmHsvyjizmZUTjmA9IbphJjFJdoUPDl1btWqiEW9j22f8s8foPIRyllNd_9wXcZBRvOFqTqvLYOwQMDzNotMC7RZiKj7LMoIJadhmTOrRlRMZcumQwwgii33rtlwY3pH2tpE12aU2E8A6XhE00sXibIKyjvy_4qI7t0lAYOQQkda9_/s1000/oct11-r.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibJk4rrJGp_UvGSfrmHsvyjizmZUTjmA9IbphJjFJdoUPDl1btWqiEW9j22f8s8foPIRyllNd_9wXcZBRvOFqTqvLYOwQMDzNotMC7RZiKj7LMoIJadhmTOrRlRMZcumQwwgii33rtlwY3pH2tpE12aU2E8A6XhE00sXibIKyjvy_4qI7t0lAYOQQkda9_/s320/oct11-r.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />We followed a boat up the flight but they did not spot us until almost at the top but they kindly waited for us to share the last lock.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyMkZ8tpLR2yLK-0gQQ1OHg6Cr97MA6RNAUMbMO7E6ftzjT23GQVS7C-Dc6aakri7Vcf6VsXOgfuDD2notS3Ng_CDmfwJGUT78-V3JUmAe9Tk8iV7452BXXYMWgAMWlx9iTCRzXKHbvDvYXgo7e8TZRmjnf2afqO9lllwakMDrAbJ0zpDH8DFuRVvhNVbh/s1000/oct11-s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="591" data-original-width="1000" height="189" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyMkZ8tpLR2yLK-0gQQ1OHg6Cr97MA6RNAUMbMO7E6ftzjT23GQVS7C-Dc6aakri7Vcf6VsXOgfuDD2notS3Ng_CDmfwJGUT78-V3JUmAe9Tk8iV7452BXXYMWgAMWlx9iTCRzXKHbvDvYXgo7e8TZRmjnf2afqO9lllwakMDrAbJ0zpDH8DFuRVvhNVbh/s320/oct11-s.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />In the line of moored boats before the tunnel we spotted the Laundry Boat - not seen one offering that service before.<p></p><p>We wondered if we would find a space to moor for the night or would we have to go through the tunnel? We hoped not as by then it would have been quite dark. However, around the corner was plenty of space for both boats to moor up. The down side was that we did not have a signal on either of the networks we use.</p><p>Although we could not upload this blog, Mike still prepared the photos and the text, carefully saving the immortal prose in a file for use tomorrow. The next day we also were out of range and so Mike used the text file as a template for the next episode. As he started he made a mental note to be very careful not to overwrite the previous edition. A while later he checked back on a detail from the previous day only to discover to bhis horror that he must h<span>ave instinctively 'saved' before changing the title! At least the photos were OK. So, if you think that this blog has a sense of frustration about it, please forgive the errant writer . . . </span></p><p>18.3 Miles - 8 Locks</p>Mike Toddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00067557327430064111noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6239989273407700909.post-88984678861705129142023-10-10T18:58:00.003+01:002023-10-10T19:01:20.977+01:00Milton KeynesToday's Canal : Grand Union<div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXM2l4wUHIfz6JFGotjWMUtz43FM5IQmTATG8Ofo_3cjHcYYfgxDQGh3faRzaq6EbB1LSofyI94eBNjHvpSFtyVTmT80T2OEGCnd5BHZUIU7dUmyoEW57FLtBYN4ymmBN9yWotcBF2zDXc5fYcQfzNjEuGwNVov3L41mqNIWfJf15ZcSRiSVWYfBXRa5zb/s1000/oct10-a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXM2l4wUHIfz6JFGotjWMUtz43FM5IQmTATG8Ofo_3cjHcYYfgxDQGh3faRzaq6EbB1LSofyI94eBNjHvpSFtyVTmT80T2OEGCnd5BHZUIU7dUmyoEW57FLtBYN4ymmBN9yWotcBF2zDXc5fYcQfzNjEuGwNVov3L41mqNIWfJf15ZcSRiSVWYfBXRa5zb/s320/oct10-a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />We set off in good time this morning, with the bright sunshine burning off the last of the early mist.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHU4PBk2_GBqGLcH4LqhzNSvgtOBy6_bUAcQ3oV34b35VSkwUncO8o_pmtM8SnjNkdupvrwnrvnZ64qJWkNw0dBEN9mW67OwSqVAGeGyzHt4FDL5ALkUZsbEQxwvio5hv8TVDxXr7Wtnrk5MJmuLnkpRJW8kZ8zjTFGjktaPCQ07Sa3qzTGKoWXu-eCNdi/s1000/oct10-b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="535" data-original-width="1000" height="171" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHU4PBk2_GBqGLcH4LqhzNSvgtOBy6_bUAcQ3oV34b35VSkwUncO8o_pmtM8SnjNkdupvrwnrvnZ64qJWkNw0dBEN9mW67OwSqVAGeGyzHt4FDL5ALkUZsbEQxwvio5hv8TVDxXr7Wtnrk5MJmuLnkpRJW8kZ8zjTFGjktaPCQ07Sa3qzTGKoWXu-eCNdi/s320/oct10-b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqH0oCpV8UpwGApdkpmKkUMOscE7wrRr3JmMQUROrpiMIIvJfl7yubcGLQAh8-_ti1HichQUu78O7XivRpWSIpWJKacQNYT-mBGZqfHLL3pDqMipbkxU3F2Zhyphenhyphen3uFuive24dbupzCljH365BmA-ORdkmgz_O2x4nrvqfFWJr15D8x70P0SzSZziRSEySdz/s1000/oct10-c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqH0oCpV8UpwGApdkpmKkUMOscE7wrRr3JmMQUROrpiMIIvJfl7yubcGLQAh8-_ti1HichQUu78O7XivRpWSIpWJKacQNYT-mBGZqfHLL3pDqMipbkxU3F2Zhyphenhyphen3uFuive24dbupzCljH365BmA-ORdkmgz_O2x4nrvqfFWJr15D8x70P0SzSZziRSEySdz/s320/oct10-c.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The first lock today was Church Lock (now named by CaRT as Grove Church). The small church alongside the lock - hence the name - was closed some while ago and has been sympathetically converted into a private house.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjciK6r-BY8RQD9BUgA13Wi9uOw5zzxDPfaaJ17O4ShAXh9YJV3aThjt4R3bkVP0ylqxbafo4_bnaDnXEc5fSJL_sGCjjF6wRTGRZH54JRoYoznaWxFGYTq4BFk_p3l5juDz1cBhlW_Ea7Eo3CYbtpkxwusARcLk9h4qkf8Qw7jXd6HucgmnZKCAL_KlUyf/s1000/oct10-d.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="535" data-original-width="1000" height="171" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjciK6r-BY8RQD9BUgA13Wi9uOw5zzxDPfaaJ17O4ShAXh9YJV3aThjt4R3bkVP0ylqxbafo4_bnaDnXEc5fSJL_sGCjjF6wRTGRZH54JRoYoznaWxFGYTq4BFk_p3l5juDz1cBhlW_Ea7Eo3CYbtpkxwusARcLk9h4qkf8Qw7jXd6HucgmnZKCAL_KlUyf/s320/oct10-d.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />As Mike was preparing Grove Lock, Andrew spotted that the small marina office had bags of solid fuel and so Christine went in to buy just the one bag. The weather is expected to turn much more seasonal in the next couple of days, perhaps even tomorrow, so we may well want to light the stove in the evenings.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEielMiFPn7uP2oEnsRJR1IqEI3KvEugmi8rBFYluu6MaI20G0zhhaQc2ym9sNoIe4mCCVneYhwdGfaG_jgwxLe3zrg0LvdMDcRr_xpQiFU004GW4ixd0fg2B0bUupRv3ZT3Kl5tAbXUQaCjXI2YUwZKgyjPTWiyquGgMhBW-kLS7URgupZCWNvShpNGrJgn/s1000/oct10-e.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="593" data-original-width="1000" height="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEielMiFPn7uP2oEnsRJR1IqEI3KvEugmi8rBFYluu6MaI20G0zhhaQc2ym9sNoIe4mCCVneYhwdGfaG_jgwxLe3zrg0LvdMDcRr_xpQiFU004GW4ixd0fg2B0bUupRv3ZT3Kl5tAbXUQaCjXI2YUwZKgyjPTWiyquGgMhBW-kLS7URgupZCWNvShpNGrJgn/s320/oct10-e.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The lock has a popular pub alongside, although just a few customers (having coffee?) this early in the day.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMdkFtA28qtguaVIJ2Fs4n0eY8wFgUjk4uetzl7v_HEuo2XhWfngeoyAxhQJPQXmXIbG9VRkUzM6grd64tA1UxN9zI5IM7z2RZK5WB0EItgcSylPjSOKMzwgPjUPeDglU5cvNEA10rX0lwZJmwXzXvLgyxXJhiwe9dR_9Reezw_Pezhsjzr5lv323R9mLS/s1000/oct10-f.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="572" data-original-width="1000" height="183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMdkFtA28qtguaVIJ2Fs4n0eY8wFgUjk4uetzl7v_HEuo2XhWfngeoyAxhQJPQXmXIbG9VRkUzM6grd64tA1UxN9zI5IM7z2RZK5WB0EItgcSylPjSOKMzwgPjUPeDglU5cvNEA10rX0lwZJmwXzXvLgyxXJhiwe9dR_9Reezw_Pezhsjzr5lv323R9mLS/s320/oct10-f.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Immediately below the lock is a winding hole. As we were waiting for the lock to empty a boat arrived from the north to turn around. Fortunately the steerer was obviously quite skilled as he made it around although it was quite difficult as a very large wide beam had moored right opposite!</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip2YcWnyE6bwBFCDyxf4WGAFMfi_tJoOTpHjknDrU2tl2_EPuZ40fh3wSbJosmrzP1Wxs3VF0e8_fapD4LpFpy2WYfN6D6gmXJwHZoPLBtWRnyCtuq7mNCyLoeBLvKf4qakem7sMB3ue93FshYnbkGmtCJsEBtxNb0uZKqlxL834zEoOkMzBqyhwqR9rL6/s1000/oct10-G.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="587" data-original-width="1000" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip2YcWnyE6bwBFCDyxf4WGAFMfi_tJoOTpHjknDrU2tl2_EPuZ40fh3wSbJosmrzP1Wxs3VF0e8_fapD4LpFpy2WYfN6D6gmXJwHZoPLBtWRnyCtuq7mNCyLoeBLvKf4qakem7sMB3ue93FshYnbkGmtCJsEBtxNb0uZKqlxL834zEoOkMzBqyhwqR9rL6/s320/oct10-G.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Just before we reached Leighton Buzzard we passed the first of three places that look as if they were once loading wharves. The first one has some remnants of narrow gauge rail track along the edge. We have seen these before but not discovered anything about them. This time our research revealed a little about them. In the 19C, the land to the west of the town was the site of several quarries producing high quality sand. The canal was a major means of transporting the sand to wider markets. The arrival in 1848 of a line from Dunstable to join the West Coast Main Line nearby allowed a rapid expansion and soared further in the First World War as imported supplies were restricted. Wartime rules allowed it to be carried on the local roads to the rail and canal loading places, causing considerable damage. After the war the quarry companies were told that hey would have to pay for future repairs and so they built a network of narrow gauge tracks instead, with one running down to the canal. The lines can be seen on older editions of OS Maps.</div><div><br /></div><div>This network continued in use until 1969 and then a group of rail enthusiasts gained permission to operate a small narrow gauge service, mainly as a Preservation Society and it continues to entertain visitors to this day.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg66-lf1Ufd7KCUF_ih-5FTjU5f0sBjP2sTuaELF75J7C27X883HLgjt2MqNGuQrb-HcNo_gS-DKmEiqWV_YvFfUWHt4zHcV9b6F7M0KRGkie_IyrXMpK3iLSduryEUB8rZDGFfkA05OsOr3VKciGFVg_UWkc42A5Zui3FCrfKEvpHf5ugS88HYtfoh5eER/s1000/oct10-h.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="550" data-original-width="1000" height="176" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg66-lf1Ufd7KCUF_ih-5FTjU5f0sBjP2sTuaELF75J7C27X883HLgjt2MqNGuQrb-HcNo_gS-DKmEiqWV_YvFfUWHt4zHcV9b6F7M0KRGkie_IyrXMpK3iLSduryEUB8rZDGFfkA05OsOr3VKciGFVg_UWkc42A5Zui3FCrfKEvpHf5ugS88HYtfoh5eER/s320/oct10-h.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />This former rail bridge is now a local footpath and previously we had assumed it linked at one time with the narrow gauge railway. We now know that this was then Dunstable standard gauge line as mentioned above. In fact the narrow gauge lines kept entirely, so far as we can see from old maps, to the east of the canal.</div><div><br /></div><div>We had originally intended to visit a large Tesco alongside the canal in the town but when we reviewed the list we decided that shopping was not need today. (Note, the site on which the supermarket is built was once a car factory making the famous Morgan sports cars)</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1sSKveP3MnSfGzuCixUWgafgM5TUfmDKVTn4hbouSCP4fQ0f3uNVRZVAM84xIsk8c8y_Na01OWZEUv0RIzRs8fcBNl9kUsgdu61B_otPNDX1oUulEPaO3dCpENiL-pkAxrVKW0Hc0ZRmaY3k5iV9OROW5RqbiXC4wbWJUqMUQN3-kWfGGyxE3z6toh1fh/s1000/oct10-i.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1sSKveP3MnSfGzuCixUWgafgM5TUfmDKVTn4hbouSCP4fQ0f3uNVRZVAM84xIsk8c8y_Na01OWZEUv0RIzRs8fcBNl9kUsgdu61B_otPNDX1oUulEPaO3dCpENiL-pkAxrVKW0Hc0ZRmaY3k5iV9OROW5RqbiXC4wbWJUqMUQN3-kWfGGyxE3z6toh1fh/s320/oct10-i.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />This boat has rather splendid artwork all along the side of its cabin.</div><div><br /></div><div>As we passed the Wyvern Shipping Company base we spotted at least three boats that we hired way back before we bought <i><a href="https://takefiveboat.blogspot.com/2008/09/introduction.html">Take Five</a></i> - including <i>Poppy</i> that was our home for six weeks on what we called our <a href="https://takefiveboat.blogspot.com/2008/09/introduction.html"><i>Canal 40</i> </a>trip.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisZgPoALElBn7e8xh5T_v47ptv0NyXv-G42sNSgVIntaC8Laa4yJ9Gh_gh-CVnmGiylL4Yy1wfpjQYvZhEFdN8_sPC5JTsFmfqFoWXZ-jhwc3ezNffK3n6K8DOMKkCar_YQfU4AJeZS_Vl-YgzkaTduT7ID4kJRGPQ1I94dFsdjLUVY3kLZiTT0lQuOlbF/s1000/oct10-k.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="554" data-original-width="1000" height="177" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisZgPoALElBn7e8xh5T_v47ptv0NyXv-G42sNSgVIntaC8Laa4yJ9Gh_gh-CVnmGiylL4Yy1wfpjQYvZhEFdN8_sPC5JTsFmfqFoWXZ-jhwc3ezNffK3n6K8DOMKkCar_YQfU4AJeZS_Vl-YgzkaTduT7ID4kJRGPQ1I94dFsdjLUVY3kLZiTT0lQuOlbF/s320/oct10-k.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />We arrived at the top of Soulbury Three Locks at 12:03 and were greeted by two volunteers who helped us down the flight.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXrU32C3ChFUABrPrxz5LvJedcETa65bZDDofdXEAqau_n13R5C9t6FkimUp32qfwRCGT7nCQ6vCzXmsvTb2yU4Fghxo4aadLtfxzgRSTiuWem7Exx86HPy3ERGOYmpGU68rJRXfU-NZUwwgpvvaqF-MG1xMz0XNTC2VRrx5eJjrvjI0E-N0qpSKNdxy8v/s1000/oct10-l.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="621" data-original-width="1000" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXrU32C3ChFUABrPrxz5LvJedcETa65bZDDofdXEAqau_n13R5C9t6FkimUp32qfwRCGT7nCQ6vCzXmsvTb2yU4Fghxo4aadLtfxzgRSTiuWem7Exx86HPy3ERGOYmpGU68rJRXfU-NZUwwgpvvaqF-MG1xMz0XNTC2VRrx5eJjrvjI0E-N0qpSKNdxy8v/s320/oct10-l.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />In the middle of the flight is the <a href="http://www.discovermiltonkeynes.co.uk/uploads/1/0/3/9/10393340/pdf_panels_v6.pdf">Pumphouse</a>, built in 1838 but renovated in 2019. It still houses pumps (now electric) that return water from below the flight that is used to bring boats up and down the flight.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMdzeXnqxbH0hwOI63G_WfGZCXkq-Dvfwe6zIWcvfuLwoOKedDt7OqkVZf1AeZ60E29r-o8QS5BTL4XgYiSWlhvyeAoKdsxE64VyVxBXMHSWHU9rp9PuouiKP-AcOKiHVTXxBG80YOI8tG2BTCQex6M-JU1SEWh4pwKZsPydrXGEZETrN1jkI1dwk8QeIY/s1000/oct10-m.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="1000" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMdzeXnqxbH0hwOI63G_WfGZCXkq-Dvfwe6zIWcvfuLwoOKedDt7OqkVZf1AeZ60E29r-o8QS5BTL4XgYiSWlhvyeAoKdsxE64VyVxBXMHSWHU9rp9PuouiKP-AcOKiHVTXxBG80YOI8tG2BTCQex6M-JU1SEWh4pwKZsPydrXGEZETrN1jkI1dwk8QeIY/s320/oct10-m.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />We exited the bottom of the three locks at 12:27, a remarkably quick transit thanks to having the volunteer help in addition to ourselves.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtrayXY7r2Lwtxy0ezHrLiYO7UYQFqQDet3CS3VNkCABnxHrcZ-bJ6tc4WcdneGTm1Z_-N8pQEOTJg57NmCfnQMJpkeIkMae0ZBsEAr-7XerkVkBbkQyVSlMyGn2oDWVN_MJ-IIgwnMmiaR9A8Ayk_DkJrWaeXCo-Z6Dib9KeVuZEXw8kD7ZrYv5wsZFst/s1000/oct10-n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtrayXY7r2Lwtxy0ezHrLiYO7UYQFqQDet3CS3VNkCABnxHrcZ-bJ6tc4WcdneGTm1Z_-N8pQEOTJg57NmCfnQMJpkeIkMae0ZBsEAr-7XerkVkBbkQyVSlMyGn2oDWVN_MJ-IIgwnMmiaR9A8Ayk_DkJrWaeXCo-Z6Dib9KeVuZEXw8kD7ZrYv5wsZFst/s320/oct10-n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />This meant that we had time to go through Stoke Hammond Lock before lunch. Here, as at Soulbury, the name board is surround by a well maintained flower bed. In the background can just be seen another pumphouse, this time covering just the one lock.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVNCl7uBY4c2Ngi0CLub7Mw8F9WFXpTaA-AghxOFGF40qUXVWnIOfIO-T1qERjnu2-UQiUvoVDkDR8aaPkPKP4WjBNgS2Vpsu1cjg3kJvvHY34ENf1eLtvN5LglzV6xhiq8h1KgxP3FzxyTXnEcQC1_FvgEiTMAowIq8_sBR3oVL5gFZ9hh_TDtoHXFurs/s1000/oct10-o.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="593" data-original-width="1000" height="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVNCl7uBY4c2Ngi0CLub7Mw8F9WFXpTaA-AghxOFGF40qUXVWnIOfIO-T1qERjnu2-UQiUvoVDkDR8aaPkPKP4WjBNgS2Vpsu1cjg3kJvvHY34ENf1eLtvN5LglzV6xhiq8h1KgxP3FzxyTXnEcQC1_FvgEiTMAowIq8_sBR3oVL5gFZ9hh_TDtoHXFurs/s320/oct10-o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />In the afternoon we continued northwards, first passing through Fenny Stratford. A modern apartment development alongside Watling Street still regains as a feature the former Fenny Basin. As far as we can discover this was mainly used in the transport of coal. It is shown on the earliest map we can find online but is neither named nor described. But it is attractive.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_4CMmMV5iwk1-2Yz4PpbbijjRtfMXU6bMlxRd6p8mPspdfjCNRW7zFGIQHfo6KoCjM1g9vVvhdFu17yr7ncuAJdxBlVYGBSjt72Mf56iSK8g4GEmdZG0yd_U7ThhEsOCDea7qwEqvAxB6u1foaOdKiBeLRLz9jgdAiYsEn1ISYc6AfeyAEnVDQ7WbyNu6/s1000/oct10-p.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_4CMmMV5iwk1-2Yz4PpbbijjRtfMXU6bMlxRd6p8mPspdfjCNRW7zFGIQHfo6KoCjM1g9vVvhdFu17yr7ncuAJdxBlVYGBSjt72Mf56iSK8g4GEmdZG0yd_U7ThhEsOCDea7qwEqvAxB6u1foaOdKiBeLRLz9jgdAiYsEn1ISYc6AfeyAEnVDQ7WbyNu6/s320/oct10-p.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The very shallow Fenny Lock has a swing bridge across the middle, serving just the cottage on the opposite side. Unfortunately anyone wanting to use it has to wait until boa<span>ts have passed through or walk over the gates.</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihMgA1mUEJIFEf_GBSWtyN3z1RwWjnZvbq578o35FitQj1ANmxH3FscQ2Gu17dmwbBXmf36H_-ttsL5JiNpkxX_N86Qn2KnU-MH0b7jv_1ITohfB7mqG8FhPpj8l3_Cxcqa8sTR8pN17r1k7OV4HgJq78zm5r8I70m6zIFB3X6XjrnMlL5AUdsUh6YB3B8/s1000/oct10-q.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="593" data-original-width="1000" height="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihMgA1mUEJIFEf_GBSWtyN3z1RwWjnZvbq578o35FitQj1ANmxH3FscQ2Gu17dmwbBXmf36H_-ttsL5JiNpkxX_N86Qn2KnU-MH0b7jv_1ITohfB7mqG8FhPpj8l3_Cxcqa8sTR8pN17r1k7OV4HgJq78zm5r8I70m6zIFB3X6XjrnMlL5AUdsUh6YB3B8/s320/oct10-q.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7F7Xtt1vW1siufh_xR_jATKtVeKCSJY-7AKaQ3xBQHxw2619xMLyg_duhhDmh0w9zah-lVU-KVyIKkQgKctfcVPwzUKGJp_Zl3ZvXMCH_bN6TcYwWL_gkDCZ-o09IjfDdQoFgDcB6N2MS7urR3g9OLiMDG05ClVPqLHZlWUkJ9jdEAMAEDXom6f-ogIE9/s1000/oct10-r.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="593" data-original-width="1000" height="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7F7Xtt1vW1siufh_xR_jATKtVeKCSJY-7AKaQ3xBQHxw2619xMLyg_duhhDmh0w9zah-lVU-KVyIKkQgKctfcVPwzUKGJp_Zl3ZvXMCH_bN6TcYwWL_gkDCZ-o09IjfDdQoFgDcB6N2MS7urR3g9OLiMDG05ClVPqLHZlWUkJ9jdEAMAEDXom6f-ogIE9/s320/oct10-r.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />We were now on the long level pound all the wat through Milton Keynes. There are innumerable bridges - ranging from the older and picturesque to the large stark concrete structures that carry the main grid roads for which Milton Keynes is well known.</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>Cloud cover gradually became more extensive and the temperature dropped very quickly.</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZtWsXDrXQVP4WGOQ0eTpqxSe5NYqRFqs7OsOxtqoJztJNcT5sqYDMaBTxxDMuT4STU3L6KD3nU-LmjyOYIq2O1whX2o-OHnCZDVUNBg_8KZUC9C-y-PQUjSmlEbkpsAbbl8ttsFpnplXoqsg5PK7kMXTL257fHDZedFaHtS4MHbV4_cIP_6knNJZL6ovK/s1000/oct10-s.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZtWsXDrXQVP4WGOQ0eTpqxSe5NYqRFqs7OsOxtqoJztJNcT5sqYDMaBTxxDMuT4STU3L6KD3nU-LmjyOYIq2O1whX2o-OHnCZDVUNBg_8KZUC9C-y-PQUjSmlEbkpsAbbl8ttsFpnplXoqsg5PK7kMXTL257fHDZedFaHtS4MHbV4_cIP_6knNJZL6ovK/s320/oct10-s.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />One of the more recent developments is the Campbell Wharf sets of <a href="https://www.crestnicholson.com/pdf/media/brochures/20498-development-brochure.pdf">apartments</a>, some still being completed. Alas, the set of pontoons to the front looked good on the original architect's plans buy no-one seem to have worked out how to use them!</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8fp9xHLPlSpYd8xzlvgByKlCUQUo0MbGgNgJIg3o5hxNVsCapPXVHhlIjR0-a7NlgBdGJX73T8x2AFYpLf0dRa89EWSq1KytpSeQIP9Q98g4WjEks5Eg0YK3qEQ4xuE5pOj-ysloyJc3mmIDeUq55tJdnMMcQx_srkDv188P55uWmTeAk3Pye1RKWJJP0/s1000/oct10-t.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8fp9xHLPlSpYd8xzlvgByKlCUQUo0MbGgNgJIg3o5hxNVsCapPXVHhlIjR0-a7NlgBdGJX73T8x2AFYpLf0dRa89EWSq1KytpSeQIP9Q98g4WjEks5Eg0YK3qEQ4xuE5pOj-ysloyJc3mmIDeUq55tJdnMMcQx_srkDv188P55uWmTeAk3Pye1RKWJJP0/s320/oct10-t.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Immediately opposite, however, the Parks Trust has developed a marina with 111 berths and a dramatic footbridge across the canal. It was opened in 2019.</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>We went just a little further to Campbell :park where we pulled onto a designated Visitor Mooring for the night.</span></div><div><br /></div><div>15.4 Miles - 8 Locks</div>Mike Toddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00067557327430064111noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6239989273407700909.post-10213559450202214862023-10-09T19:24:00.003+01:002023-10-09T19:26:46.784+01:00Slapton<p>Today's Canals : Wendover Arm, Grand Union</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWc8gGffcS65XBXhfB8qHPCLl9DUmz5XW66jG_luET1w9wxOekVkxTgoDNYCl_suC-9bnMy65o01oZEY9uBYSe9aMa9LHQk1iqnFf8yxUbXcS0JdhnWTox2STXK6RmcuudeVVgCkcENPFM9RBv2B9ijO1-Wubi-cLsCdd7p6MvGxnKFfFm8NaYWlmJWxu_/s1000/oct09-b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWc8gGffcS65XBXhfB8qHPCLl9DUmz5XW66jG_luET1w9wxOekVkxTgoDNYCl_suC-9bnMy65o01oZEY9uBYSe9aMa9LHQk1iqnFf8yxUbXcS0JdhnWTox2STXK6RmcuudeVVgCkcENPFM9RBv2B9ijO1-Wubi-cLsCdd7p6MvGxnKFfFm8NaYWlmJWxu_/s320/oct09-b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />We promised some pictures of the Little Tring end of the Arm, where we moored overnight. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrLY7SJXaz8SGvcXgHxeQRXcYmLgQ0NGh90L1VHOgIHapeG3IflfkfZjTGjNhtq6zg34RVkmrJ-fhDwKS7YIeMe7xQvczsUHHY3qj-vTCJS-1HKA7TJsndvfuOg3hGC3IjVR36Y-68ThM_-1skg_n61CAHFobz6Vzvkndup4MjOSU20AolF_U96hk9irkr/s1000/oct09-a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrLY7SJXaz8SGvcXgHxeQRXcYmLgQ0NGh90L1VHOgIHapeG3IflfkfZjTGjNhtq6zg34RVkmrJ-fhDwKS7YIeMe7xQvczsUHHY3qj-vTCJS-1HKA7TJsndvfuOg3hGC3IjVR36Y-68ThM_-1skg_n61CAHFobz6Vzvkndup4MjOSU20AolF_U96hk9irkr/s320/oct09-a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaXHsIJ-83g8C68NjvXrRpkjBdMG580nnKTWynfOStN7JSUp8Mp5uaeKoFMuBPurBKYAyTvjYlnYxZRE7HlkKMqITGr0LwOZbpg_6hIY18rGytNLMvo0Z4FDN21v9e8Xf5dmJmhliKQhBtxd8I1SpspurVO8xp9VYOG_rx09jK1JFyDSwn-NJgu8r67NlX/s1000/oct09-c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaXHsIJ-83g8C68NjvXrRpkjBdMG580nnKTWynfOStN7JSUp8Mp5uaeKoFMuBPurBKYAyTvjYlnYxZRE7HlkKMqITGr0LwOZbpg_6hIY18rGytNLMvo0Z4FDN21v9e8Xf5dmJmhliKQhBtxd8I1SpspurVO8xp9VYOG_rx09jK1JFyDSwn-NJgu8r67NlX/s320/oct09-c.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Just before the end is a large winding hole and mooring area.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhmzWPIvBau0ra3959_h5pZAPrHYXh5DMV1qBGU1MhXpnIR1gW5rDRX0OeK7xvgh38KFFTrpeBT1JCkoqloTXlU1niOlCa34BzbA_RWQ7cIF6s5KT6yY4WPKRCvM-p0vheGBunGEAlLAZubYMzli4IHWNM9rnO_8iNKyV493g6MU9F6pG8nlKNNLfmaGaq/s1000/oct09-d.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhmzWPIvBau0ra3959_h5pZAPrHYXh5DMV1qBGU1MhXpnIR1gW5rDRX0OeK7xvgh38KFFTrpeBT1JCkoqloTXlU1niOlCa34BzbA_RWQ7cIF6s5KT6yY4WPKRCvM-p0vheGBunGEAlLAZubYMzli4IHWNM9rnO_8iNKyV493g6MU9F6pG8nlKNNLfmaGaq/s320/oct09-d.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Mike and Andrew set out early (ish) to walk part of the next section of the Wendover Arm that is still under restoration. Wendover Arm Trust (WAT) have made considerable progress and had been expecting to complete the next phase and open to navigation in 2025. They have been working back to the base in Little Tring from the place where the existing in-water section from the centre of Wendover comes to an end. Almost all of the route has been excavated - the far part of the above photo is where eventually they will break through to join the currently navigable part.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMvse4YPbHptfj5vulVuC_PDZ_T7HP1skSN5b9vI1F-0BzFMwhcXfPUejWwkpuWMzzm2sX_RcA9ElgbQtH1V4hUZRyTeWpUrPCHjhoIFPZKv4eKM5EQLYdIRCACVnL3_kc7kKnCtZi4w33l1nkS3LN6JQLF97fJu_NslKeUV36nqrPW3vVXjR7S1SdOFwd/s1000/oct09-e.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="1000" height="173" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMvse4YPbHptfj5vulVuC_PDZ_T7HP1skSN5b9vI1F-0BzFMwhcXfPUejWwkpuWMzzm2sX_RcA9ElgbQtH1V4hUZRyTeWpUrPCHjhoIFPZKv4eKM5EQLYdIRCACVnL3_kc7kKnCtZi4w33l1nkS3LN6JQLF97fJu_NslKeUV36nqrPW3vVXjR7S1SdOFwd/s320/oct09-e.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />All of thee principal structures work is now complete although one will need a little remedial work to make it fully watertight. The majority of the work now is laying the lining to the canal which is done in 40m sections.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6UewUWK3zvDr3_EsfSglW01Epv-sx0yMpUVQSR-flyhtHSaq1DBRYWBn3c2EE3ieb31Of5MjX9_xH4IQy9Vv0Z7jAbKRStY94F54Px5EzUD9nNeJUJy6a-xWoy5gf2bcLGuyN8NNuOOCEyeu2FtcTPfzA0VSrgaRS-8y6S0EjCXuMVpTN5-QBSEwtUfMt/s1000/oct09-f.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6UewUWK3zvDr3_EsfSglW01Epv-sx0yMpUVQSR-flyhtHSaq1DBRYWBn3c2EE3ieb31Of5MjX9_xH4IQy9Vv0Z7jAbKRStY94F54Px5EzUD9nNeJUJy6a-xWoy5gf2bcLGuyN8NNuOOCEyeu2FtcTPfzA0VSrgaRS-8y6S0EjCXuMVpTN5-QBSEwtUfMt/s320/oct09-f.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />At intervals layby moorings have been constructed as the canal will remain quite narrow and there were no provisions for mooring originally.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipsu_YO4Nm34wWg5WHVlpprtDI-UaQnYh7RF_s7lqDvfc6OShCGLunCU11gTHVYB5-RftkabkFJMn8zYOr826cJv4cTuuoy1Em4uQ3lFENuWCeFZ9xR_TeO0QMBD1HM6NheeSXRyEeD_qqXJjK7_0UHQ8JV7B6-Rbd9BLA7bULbtx9asfySN12rhX0tzaf/s1000/oct09-g.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="1000" height="173" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipsu_YO4Nm34wWg5WHVlpprtDI-UaQnYh7RF_s7lqDvfc6OShCGLunCU11gTHVYB5-RftkabkFJMn8zYOr826cJv4cTuuoy1Em4uQ3lFENuWCeFZ9xR_TeO0QMBD1HM6NheeSXRyEeD_qqXJjK7_0UHQ8JV7B6-Rbd9BLA7bULbtx9asfySN12rhX0tzaf/s320/oct09-g.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Whitehouses Pumping Station - or at least the remains of it - have been restored. Work was still underway when we came here two years ago.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibnSG4v82dmlEvW2ZIb4-qO-GZBpgNtNlenP6T6OCxL1RiEO8wNzf0HCGSGMG_gJhThT3cuELWvf_sv941J2Hb2lLm0sj6-26tF7BwRQ-B4q4cm_W1XJ4zcMJM3xbWXvZgjTjOgT20Ym73ILRWY7BhdXLU1u9akCGxxigKvk-vzgXUv8Jo3uCvVk1tSiCh/s1000/oct09-h.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibnSG4v82dmlEvW2ZIb4-qO-GZBpgNtNlenP6T6OCxL1RiEO8wNzf0HCGSGMG_gJhThT3cuELWvf_sv941J2Hb2lLm0sj6-26tF7BwRQ-B4q4cm_W1XJ4zcMJM3xbWXvZgjTjOgT20Ym73ILRWY7BhdXLU1u9akCGxxigKvk-vzgXUv8Jo3uCvVk1tSiCh/s320/oct09-h.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />This is now the point, under one of the two new timber footbridges, where the already re-watered section currently ends. The dry section between the two bridges was unintentionally filled earlier this but it did give WAT the chance to check out how watertight their work is. Andrew returned to the boat from here so that he could have his sausage wrap breakfast!)<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKRqblW9IWb2axVarKY6uZ4KjWMbaj8odXy35cgsDnFBSaZ6Ey5BOqNzY9OwAXCXlWtYhVIjp2jx4T5SkFfPA8LML8y3scat1IKXfKStaAhugTujf3JOVWgm5wmJOcNTTnKLgiPdv8fGly6CBKzqK5YGBYdGOJluej3jIIVu7LrRvaOzNg9iCSZVO-iqDg/s1000/oct09-i.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="626" data-original-width="1000" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKRqblW9IWb2axVarKY6uZ4KjWMbaj8odXy35cgsDnFBSaZ6Ey5BOqNzY9OwAXCXlWtYhVIjp2jx4T5SkFfPA8LML8y3scat1IKXfKStaAhugTujf3JOVWgm5wmJOcNTTnKLgiPdv8fGly6CBKzqK5YGBYdGOJluej3jIIVu7LrRvaOzNg9iCSZVO-iqDg/s320/oct09-i.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />This is what the laybys look like once re-watered.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS3s8hj5cRADyu0Pjyu7TukEVzGfK0MBvlIJqvtUuGycfEhiA6pm7pV_R9xRPjmvFyXBUV1Xxqds7WrtWeqqZaLtVhyvMg634rNRHyqo3ytmk9HhdO7_E23e64BeTGab7GBrJK40Pj-LqMLl6vJbAn9QFr2pYRZVGb9PRdd3pjLmkZgTxx9rng0YL75k8r/s1000/oct09-j.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="582" data-original-width="1000" height="186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS3s8hj5cRADyu0Pjyu7TukEVzGfK0MBvlIJqvtUuGycfEhiA6pm7pV_R9xRPjmvFyXBUV1Xxqds7WrtWeqqZaLtVhyvMg634rNRHyqo3ytmk9HhdO7_E23e64BeTGab7GBrJK40Pj-LqMLl6vJbAn9QFr2pYRZVGb9PRdd3pjLmkZgTxx9rng0YL75k8r/s320/oct09-j.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Mike continued on the Drayton Beauchamp Bridge . . .<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYWC11rKT2Vk8xH34Ey5Qd0LI9PmADW3DGfpM5lO0seajJk8WNW2JzS9Rd0EEc0ehq1yuqw2cnYGNAKrI3AodHlVeutmcy2DTNcq5oGELQy44KFo6t90q-5uy3YgUBrdOBR3uPGcz672mhBzJ1sP3OCQUpHt-k5yIRGEsnb9Flz6DOVRQh-wFNKY_SAupl/s1000/oct09-k.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="611" data-original-width="1000" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYWC11rKT2Vk8xH34Ey5Qd0LI9PmADW3DGfpM5lO0seajJk8WNW2JzS9Rd0EEc0ehq1yuqw2cnYGNAKrI3AodHlVeutmcy2DTNcq5oGELQy44KFo6t90q-5uy3YgUBrdOBR3uPGcz672mhBzJ1sP3OCQUpHt-k5yIRGEsnb9Flz6DOVRQh-wFNKY_SAupl/s320/oct09-k.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />. . . with a longer view of the in-water canal (but still only at a minimal depth to protect the work).<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkF8b86pS7tfjmuLaOzRSUGvq8O_AMSET2Udnqa4xyq7_Kca_zXHJt0jWbz91Ej1ai5d89hJhlWIKoHOP4CUX-ZTPoYXafZ6s2-Lol_jTmMGe1oDv_WAJBVa_diWN3gVibj9vf7tuFAF_bMwlXKIHPIappjGPrUq3w-A0C-bt-hVCzRn0Ny5cxSauKQjyI/s1000/oct09-m.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="1000" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkF8b86pS7tfjmuLaOzRSUGvq8O_AMSET2Udnqa4xyq7_Kca_zXHJt0jWbz91Ej1ai5d89hJhlWIKoHOP4CUX-ZTPoYXafZ6s2-Lol_jTmMGe1oDv_WAJBVa_diWN3gVibj9vf7tuFAF_bMwlXKIHPIappjGPrUq3w-A0C-bt-hVCzRn0Ny5cxSauKQjyI/s320/oct09-m.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />On the way back Mike passed a small working party and chatted to the team leader. This brough out unwelcome news. The central section of this Arm had a severe leakage problem right from the outset. various attempts were made to seal the canal bed. In the Victorian period, the last real attempt used a substance made with coal tar. The aim was to lay what might have looked like a tarmac road surface but alas they put n right onto the chalk base. Chalk ground is always on the move as rain and sun change the water table and so this new surface quickly cracked and failed to do any good, leading to the closure.<p></p><p>WAT agreed a working method with CaRT some time ago to prevent the coal tar from contaminati<span>ng local water supplies. However, recent attention to environmental standards has led CaRT to demand a review and WAT had had to stop work since May this year until they are given the all clear after further testing of the ground.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhhtwy3BAitEk5pIjxbeFabRZj8vg7e0AmocAvJ8pDJz50NkHM931My_SjMJb_VHJHMSeYXAsv01E8xKYQFL_4ujCXD_77ojgbS7m6HfxUgh5WLh5gsbmF-_1tkBNa7hf7PslFA0TGMHOB7VMP3bSo-WqBk27V4vtu4r3HRs019ApQYNqm3iOj4XaBB_1Z/s1000/oct09-n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhhtwy3BAitEk5pIjxbeFabRZj8vg7e0AmocAvJ8pDJz50NkHM931My_SjMJb_VHJHMSeYXAsv01E8xKYQFL_4ujCXD_77ojgbS7m6HfxUgh5WLh5gsbmF-_1tkBNa7hf7PslFA0TGMHOB7VMP3bSo-WqBk27V4vtu4r3HRs019ApQYNqm3iOj4XaBB_1Z/s320/oct09-n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />A little later than intended Mike made it back to the boat but the other two were still just finishing breakfast! We then set off to return - slowly - back to Bulbourne Junction, passing alongside the Heygates flour mill. (See a previous <a href="https://takefiveboat.blogspot.com/2014/10/little-tring.html">blog </a>for some details)<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrkZdxXH-XFqLE9d6njOZtHdI4_NuP_vvTXf0fb3Pc5qDEAYaeW1EhTEk2UhQG5DVugGxxQ4H5VP-qBRGhXmOMccouJdDgeY9wWgJgWOc_OcsuKQ-gyyEa1jbZbwHQctnBDh0tIVvAFaZmDYSj60KNJgapiWwXPZTgzdAhx7SJKzCBtwD2gqgDdWrgBifx/s1000/oct09-o.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="587" data-original-width="1000" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrkZdxXH-XFqLE9d6njOZtHdI4_NuP_vvTXf0fb3Pc5qDEAYaeW1EhTEk2UhQG5DVugGxxQ4H5VP-qBRGhXmOMccouJdDgeY9wWgJgWOc_OcsuKQ-gyyEa1jbZbwHQctnBDh0tIVvAFaZmDYSj60KNJgapiWwXPZTgzdAhx7SJKzCBtwD2gqgDdWrgBifx/s320/oct09-o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />At the junction we turned left and immediately into the Marsworth flight. A single hander was already waiting and we shared locks down most of the flight. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPD6NizdcENumOOScoKZn73Pd7WtMDpQ1FsdWwmCZULUNnPLYN41L7njoNimEezKWUELfUXsuzP4NMf1QKmOUO5B6kwjEsnLHF1KCaWGZu5PO1bU1Y7SxdhDEuGCNhAnnLngNjyLchIyHWq6-7IA4-XlZ0Wd-kRxoMKvs9VC2mLgLLoxPnYsK4kNPktFy0/s1000/oct09-p.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="539" data-original-width="1000" height="172" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPD6NizdcENumOOScoKZn73Pd7WtMDpQ1FsdWwmCZULUNnPLYN41L7njoNimEezKWUELfUXsuzP4NMf1QKmOUO5B6kwjEsnLHF1KCaWGZu5PO1bU1Y7SxdhDEuGCNhAnnLngNjyLchIyHWq6-7IA4-XlZ0Wd-kRxoMKvs9VC2mLgLLoxPnYsK4kNPktFy0/s320/oct09-p.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Two volunteers were on hand today to help us - they were especially useful as one stayed behind at each lock to close up whilst the other went ahead to set the next lock. As a result we progressed very smoothly.<p></p><p>At Marsworth Wharf we pulled in to use the services. After a batch of laundry our tank was quite depleted by we found that the flow from the tap was very feeble (Not sure why as the pressure inside the block was pretty good) After half an hour we were still only half full so we gave up but in so doing really set our target for today as Slapton where the next water point is located.</p><p>We had by now lost our locking partner who opted to moor in the 'long pound' above the last lock. After two more locks we found a place to moor for lunch - the first time on this trip that we have used Armco and chains. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimTVrAOy0Geh8_hn4mDk2C19WjBxRuGNuH6OSVQF2cuf2IWhpSntGRhFitMCp885Jcn8TALQv2O6cnA1CX1Xm_AS_bREMJ8DmD0nWmSmxU9XK1GAs3Ob3TXPE4-ciXOAn2UJW22rBZFKFFbowSCLQSkZqBLKioR4zPC-4YFQV0DU1GiEubnmEgb9vcx1LD/s1000/oct09-q.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="569" data-original-width="1000" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimTVrAOy0Geh8_hn4mDk2C19WjBxRuGNuH6OSVQF2cuf2IWhpSntGRhFitMCp885Jcn8TALQv2O6cnA1CX1Xm_AS_bREMJ8DmD0nWmSmxU9XK1GAs3Ob3TXPE4-ciXOAn2UJW22rBZFKFFbowSCLQSkZqBLKioR4zPC-4YFQV0DU1GiEubnmEgb9vcx1LD/s320/oct09-q.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />After setting off after our lunch break we soon reached the only swing bridge for a long time. A single hander was now just ahead of us and passed though, leaving the bridge open (not sure whether he had actually spotted us and we did not see how he opened it - not easy for single handers). Signs make it clear that the bridge must be closed again after a boat has passed through as this is a popular footpath used by local residents to avoid a long detour. There is no other way to cross the canal and no lock landing on the side where the bridge is operated. Andrew brought the boat carefully to the bank just before the bridge and Mike managed to make a (giant?) leap ashore! It was fortunate we made the effort because as we were doing so a local walker arrived and did say that they are regularly put out by boaters failing to close up after themselves.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUIVctnoD_RyJ3f5EVGzxAuAahwkeKoAfVx1MPTPnbu62IZlWmQrPvNWP-rrFWWYS4VOOXdEszTTvGVm6M-ovg5KCI9KW1iw1c3HFRblJZ26GP74o_PVHibxyqD9bnOUVIxLOauURRI75_u7fXRmqFmXeXERTOi8omfdCgzyzcVQrdV0if3nzFuyRUESXj/s1000/oct09-r.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="561" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUIVctnoD_RyJ3f5EVGzxAuAahwkeKoAfVx1MPTPnbu62IZlWmQrPvNWP-rrFWWYS4VOOXdEszTTvGVm6M-ovg5KCI9KW1iw1c3HFRblJZ26GP74o_PVHibxyqD9bnOUVIxLOauURRI75_u7fXRmqFmXeXERTOi8omfdCgzyzcVQrdV0if3nzFuyRUESXj/s320/oct09-r.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Locks come quite frequently but mostly spaced out such that there little more than a breathing space between them, no enough time to doing anything else! By the time we reached the two Ivinghoe locks the sun was quite low and the sun lit the landscape with an autumnal feel that belied the very hot sunshine we had for all afternoon.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUY2fQ30NtVqbbPHxmbiqj_xvX_QMx1_SbcPaaaVp3M2qjqlOdWzRRvtKZkTL-dka67ELlhNFVS7k2f_wsDiwJWOZ5hs8tdz878i2ig7VJAAWlKygqG7Q0Rbv_aR-2K95PdRdrGmeD83TP0nH3p1JD4x7fX4-3Tv3JuZy2dsS8HwkICjYizovWSTSoddp9/s1000/oct09-s.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="547" data-original-width="1000" height="175" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUY2fQ30NtVqbbPHxmbiqj_xvX_QMx1_SbcPaaaVp3M2qjqlOdWzRRvtKZkTL-dka67ELlhNFVS7k2f_wsDiwJWOZ5hs8tdz878i2ig7VJAAWlKygqG7Q0Rbv_aR-2K95PdRdrGmeD83TP0nH3p1JD4x7fX4-3Tv3JuZy2dsS8HwkICjYizovWSTSoddp9/s320/oct09-s.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Several large fields below the locks had been given over for almost a year to a large film set. We think that this is a two-part film of <i>Wicked</i>, described as a musical spin-off from <i>Wizard of Oz</i>, complete with a yellow brock road, s1tarring Ariadne Grande. It seems that the film is now complete and that the re-creation of Munchkin Land is already being demolished but we could still see large sets - even if they look very uninteresting as the parts that the camera saw faced the other way! We understand that the first film is due for release in November 2024. We have seen a report that Ivinghoe has hosted sets for Star Wars and Killing Eve.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZwFFnakF98Wf60s6DXGYaeRS-wmPn7kFCVYny6cUYLZoRLpgjuFurv5HgpoyIht5Pb9sPy21aorS4GXaW5yjbSDZT8F0vFzO6tsiTYboKQ9MWbBJtY6Qcadh_kacCSxLys4_doXPzvn4wPCVto82XJ2C9dosWO8EUwXnH6iKT1_tLcI2djraWF2wiRzJ8/s1000/oct09-t.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="565" data-original-width="1000" height="181" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZwFFnakF98Wf60s6DXGYaeRS-wmPn7kFCVYny6cUYLZoRLpgjuFurv5HgpoyIht5Pb9sPy21aorS4GXaW5yjbSDZT8F0vFzO6tsiTYboKQ9MWbBJtY6Qcadh_kacCSxLys4_doXPzvn4wPCVto82XJ2C9dosWO8EUwXnH6iKT1_tLcI2djraWF2wiRzJ8/s320/oct09-t.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />We were looking out for the Dunstable Lion - it is even more shabby and indistinct than <a href="https://nbalchemy.blogspot.com/2021/07/little-tring.html">last </a>time. (It is above and slightly to the right of the footpath sign, just below the skyline)<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbSYqD60AJzQswa1eouF3hUzojLC23V_UjElEOraYXxHtqKyygVkj9Eyg-S-uAD_cXejUkfxGGI1Psz6iHKRaOC5UuxqMkbmRjOJwY1jCKxLn5RM43W1aFzZ76lZm_5-SLsOau6lWE0SqvKFK9oG38h-0XAYB_ja6u96rOvzdRKsWZDW7EKZWiOqKRC5yw/s1000/oct09-u.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="548" data-original-width="1000" height="175" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbSYqD60AJzQswa1eouF3hUzojLC23V_UjElEOraYXxHtqKyygVkj9Eyg-S-uAD_cXejUkfxGGI1Psz6iHKRaOC5UuxqMkbmRjOJwY1jCKxLn5RM43W1aFzZ76lZm_5-SLsOau6lWE0SqvKFK9oG38h-0XAYB_ja6u96rOvzdRKsWZDW7EKZWiOqKRC5yw/s320/oct09-u.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The locks this side of the summit were bult with side pond and although they are all now out of action, they can still be seen alongside. However, at Horton Lock it has been filled in and, apart from these remnants of the paddle gear, now invisible. A casual viewer might wonder what on earth these two pieces of cast iron are/were for!<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF7SIrrq00Eh0afujkpsC5YolZJDL2ko273lDsKGWPs7pmh-ZfGdj2M8B9XKHt0emUofld39nni8odQmQ5QCZbnrrSeV2VYQkW6UdeHPFgBQlmNlXDxKMPIr3DYEfrUrN7RZrEpaUQThN0KvaulGq2vlsadbVLyF_O-xQ66LIX3j7FzOUIegO26rTd6JvI/s1000/oct09-v.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="582" data-original-width="1000" height="186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF7SIrrq00Eh0afujkpsC5YolZJDL2ko273lDsKGWPs7pmh-ZfGdj2M8B9XKHt0emUofld39nni8odQmQ5QCZbnrrSeV2VYQkW6UdeHPFgBQlmNlXDxKMPIr3DYEfrUrN7RZrEpaUQThN0KvaulGq2vlsadbVLyF_O-xQ66LIX3j7FzOUIegO26rTd6JvI/s320/oct09-v.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The awaited water point is just beyond the bridge at Slapton. We had to manouevre around a very large wide beam that was about to reverse under the bridge to turn around in the winding hole. This tap was quite the opposite of the one at Marsworth. We hardly had time to take breath before our gauge was showing the tank about to overflow!<p></p><p>There is no space to moor between the water point and Slapton Lock so we had to work down to moor just below.</p><p>7.3 Miles - 16 Locks</p>Mike Toddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00067557327430064111noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6239989273407700909.post-36225260822152974442023-10-08T21:13:00.002+01:002023-10-08T21:16:31.744+01:00Little TringToday.'s Canals : Grand Union, Wendover Arm<div><br /></div><div>It is surprising for how many days now that we have been to say that it was very warm and sunny, hot even.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFbi3Z2cDx7-gTInyLUspnNTYNtNxYvQh9QUdD_M6Pwcje4h1bIwYnWEMKolanzzbuS1FY_1ZAcXdQ_yObJtVpy5kFvKNuYCrI8wGMeMW8Z7GgrqyySRxflIcqjcmJQk0ntZyg8NBrwWdhwpDvQywrDmw4fI4Z4N9P1MtjmjT8MCT5n5J62H3XU55hBMaU/s1000/oct08-a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFbi3Z2cDx7-gTInyLUspnNTYNtNxYvQh9QUdD_M6Pwcje4h1bIwYnWEMKolanzzbuS1FY_1ZAcXdQ_yObJtVpy5kFvKNuYCrI8wGMeMW8Z7GgrqyySRxflIcqjcmJQk0ntZyg8NBrwWdhwpDvQywrDmw4fI4Z4N9P1MtjmjT8MCT5n5J62H3XU55hBMaU/s320/oct08-a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The last bridge we passed under yesterday just before we moored still has the graffiti that we recorded 10 years ago. Back then it was bright and fresh, easily seen with little vegetation around the bridge. Now the de<span>coration is still visible but much faded and the vegetation has really grown.</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGJFWzyzyPIBptwLuUP5CcIGvovLemnj2MwUnyPjzALIjTs56-XpKbIRAOLUs08kIOYeCjfHIXfg5MwVfT6KeWit-HYJB1Yx2Sz72QWPAD5rBMHYO2Uh2kyUe679_VLH3VtUuQM-rod6cjXhuzVcamUWepX6ithM8tJxT6K8wFQuNnGybn6YTkvxmafT1e/s1000/oct08-b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGJFWzyzyPIBptwLuUP5CcIGvovLemnj2MwUnyPjzALIjTs56-XpKbIRAOLUs08kIOYeCjfHIXfg5MwVfT6KeWit-HYJB1Yx2Sz72QWPAD5rBMHYO2Uh2kyUe679_VLH3VtUuQM-rod6cjXhuzVcamUWepX6ithM8tJxT6K8wFQuNnGybn6YTkvxmafT1e/s320/oct08-b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />From the road over the bridge there is a splendid view of our mooring. Look closely and you will perhaps spot the gangplank.</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxVV5i2JELLkfLtCWMHBMB8eEItM6QWLqBgKewD0c4oRgc5IkZUUAJKG6gHxi2WsLNBS8VtRu7cgfBibLtelN-72KmHHvg7yFtjRrMLATzL9co2CyIvwKoMwvTJHLU_jOjiI1QFl2bRub0C6Peem4ceeqaMwf4njabYEKqmMgKxKiEt1XsNjY1okoFG0fz/s1000/oct08-c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="597" data-original-width="1000" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxVV5i2JELLkfLtCWMHBMB8eEItM6QWLqBgKewD0c4oRgc5IkZUUAJKG6gHxi2WsLNBS8VtRu7cgfBibLtelN-72KmHHvg7yFtjRrMLATzL9co2CyIvwKoMwvTJHLU_jOjiI1QFl2bRub0C6Peem4ceeqaMwf4njabYEKqmMgKxKiEt1XsNjY1okoFG0fz/s320/oct08-c.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The first lock is called Sewer Lock - a large treatment plant is on the offside and discharges into the canal below the lock. Although the water is no doubt clean enough to do this but there is still enough residue to create a steady stream of foam.</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbqbEBDEMOh5bsMxP0dL73iEMeFeR0P89qpBWDdBsM1WgdSSU6AYLrngsyAOqOOy-iYH-E5frjiq1-06RXK7GtSpyDUm0Lo6vXeYzrKiRSkmgv0Q20len2QnRhkStvLI9icWZt8ZWYzA9GFSEfxnt5SAfi1MdAmYxK4O9V4f7mwjxwfynVzFHlTLjHIDlI/s1000/oct08-f.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="561" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbqbEBDEMOh5bsMxP0dL73iEMeFeR0P89qpBWDdBsM1WgdSSU6AYLrngsyAOqOOy-iYH-E5frjiq1-06RXK7GtSpyDUm0Lo6vXeYzrKiRSkmgv0Q20len2QnRhkStvLI9icWZt8ZWYzA9GFSEfxnt5SAfi1MdAmYxK4O9V4f7mwjxwfynVzFHlTLjHIDlI/s320/oct08-f.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Bank Mill Cottage is midway between locks. It seems that the owners have not always appreciated boats as there is a large roughly drawn sign saying NO MOORING! Presumably they failed to persuade CaRT that their view should be kept clear - to the detriment of boaters!</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdCA0uAPFFgKbCU7v1M9-4exPYnPKE547TJgYnMrbCrEq0OI8PYjzN0aj4a6Xfw20zBXyhwNDe_h4s8LZavbvYFnFhSV1QRVvXZHUqNsoO3Lzgz8_G7Xm57TyMvxFtW9sw55SuhyQbckieYzrLPsIEdOKTLoFBYfVnqnVXuIgGX3XKVSoQPiaw-XBevutM/s1000/oct08-g.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="659" data-original-width="1000" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdCA0uAPFFgKbCU7v1M9-4exPYnPKE547TJgYnMrbCrEq0OI8PYjzN0aj4a6Xfw20zBXyhwNDe_h4s8LZavbvYFnFhSV1QRVvXZHUqNsoO3Lzgz8_G7Xm57TyMvxFtW9sw55SuhyQbckieYzrLPsIEdOKTLoFBYfVnqnVXuIgGX3XKVSoQPiaw-XBevutM/s320/oct08-g.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Two tidy rows of plastic storage boxes filled with black solid fuel. Perhaps they say that they burn 'clean coal'!</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitouCkh16dtmtMnz3w3vPKtxdXjrLqTGMzRmG9-IWn7AsqqBEurZh80Shx6r_8AZr-ql9Gk3PALkWEcJFeu_TzjLrqrVJNrFbU8h1hhHUVGHoyOhBoZvUqlAQ0cdUZbmXRhasibNzV4_U1LOyDuiW63EyT1ETaxxCPkNRibHlhvHLHE-d3eTb8a4KVILwb/s1000/oct08-h.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="1000" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitouCkh16dtmtMnz3w3vPKtxdXjrLqTGMzRmG9-IWn7AsqqBEurZh80Shx6r_8AZr-ql9Gk3PALkWEcJFeu_TzjLrqrVJNrFbU8h1hhHUVGHoyOhBoZvUqlAQ0cdUZbmXRhasibNzV4_U1LOyDuiW63EyT1ETaxxCPkNRibHlhvHLHE-d3eTb8a4KVILwb/s320/oct08-h.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The brightly painted bridge that proclaims the entry into the Port of </span>Berkhamsted is still kept in pristine condition. It is perhaps only from London to here that the every proliferating wide beams boats can claim entitlement. That section was specifically designed to allow wide barges popular around the Thames. From here on towards Birmingham the companies concerned opted for cheaper structures that were only ever expected to be used by narrowboats, although two travelling side by side became common place. Wide beam boats are mostly a modern development, increasingly fuelled by more affordable housing demands.</div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKEJX0weR23oiZ7ZBxVC9G5eltWe_q7fkuUfXTxq5tNvK1KxplcyZk4MIwhXa5kQCxqSeBrerkSTcp7hvgREsh4UY84QTUpu9GO6EfB5QRwyvqXJjqWu83uEHmEy9s9eYt5c0ajWkTWmEJnveeKN4hpIfgCWQGOxjdlc4lJsi7orfoOI4ecT6Nk6JLCTHL/s1000/oct08-i.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="639" data-original-width="1000" height="204" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKEJX0weR23oiZ7ZBxVC9G5eltWe_q7fkuUfXTxq5tNvK1KxplcyZk4MIwhXa5kQCxqSeBrerkSTcp7hvgREsh4UY84QTUpu9GO6EfB5QRwyvqXJjqWu83uEHmEy9s9eYt5c0ajWkTWmEJnveeKN4hpIfgCWQGOxjdlc4lJsi7orfoOI4ecT6Nk6JLCTHL/s320/oct08-i.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />It is obligatory to include a photo of the totem pole. It is an original dating from 1968 and was a thank you gift from people in Vancouver Island (that is, not an indigenous artefact that has be misappropriated!) Today it can best be seen from the canal, or the pub opposites, as recent housing development means that there is no direct public access. At least it is less likely to be vandalised.</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>There is a specially designated shopping section with direct access to Waitrose. When we arrived it was entirely free - helpful as the street before was quite full. By the time we had completed our shopping it was near enough to lunch time for us to eat before setting off again.</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi9Fdb4piMkzRCw9McLHuHbETrVQr41lSG71jWRKc5Wctxjf79EifANx7Zn28gdvfB-5gD9j0ilUBHnjzMXlQe4g5X5R3xhCus5O2agiT1OKQd_n3Z5HpwozHuVVXbW2BDYOwY-uZt_0KHQ8Nlvfj46eO9z2outPAG2lQ1xfLT8NC5Nh96T2ptqko6BSVX/s1000/oct08-j.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="632" data-original-width="1000" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi9Fdb4piMkzRCw9McLHuHbETrVQr41lSG71jWRKc5Wctxjf79EifANx7Zn28gdvfB-5gD9j0ilUBHnjzMXlQe4g5X5R3xhCus5O2agiT1OKQd_n3Z5HpwozHuVVXbW2BDYOwY-uZt_0KHQ8Nlvfj46eO9z2outPAG2lQ1xfLT8NC5Nh96T2ptqko6BSVX/s320/oct08-j.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The next two locks are called Gas 1 and Gas 2. The first Berkhamsted town gas plant was built near to the town centre and gradually housing and a school, grew up around it. Naturally this made the gas company very unpopular at the same time as demand for the convenient sources of energy outran the plant's capa<span>city. With no room to expand, the company found a <a href="https://maps.nls.uk/view/101449807">space </a>next the the railway and the other side of the canal, just above these two locks. A short branch line was used for horse drawn skips to deliver coal from the main rail line whilst more came by canal. The works finally closed in 1959. (More history <a href="https://tringlocalhistory.org.uk/Tring/Appendix.htm">here</a>)</span></span></div><div><span><span><br /></span></span></div><div><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFtEq24LlDhSfmcfMrtDjAf3wAuFmHaquDXojy0_UQY_h4OxA4qmYuXjEny6AO-PoeA-TdQ6qMUgxAwdTIgG5n05TdlA7_BMzNeCgMca1cX_Q2wVxQQFI3nZf-FzpQIszt79Zn6X1HjU8TMPsCiHISa_6fQZ6GUN5NZI1giKGxuFxGR4Gm-vOcl5ivKJZi/s1000/oct08-k.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFtEq24LlDhSfmcfMrtDjAf3wAuFmHaquDXojy0_UQY_h4OxA4qmYuXjEny6AO-PoeA-TdQ6qMUgxAwdTIgG5n05TdlA7_BMzNeCgMca1cX_Q2wVxQQFI3nZf-FzpQIszt79Zn6X1HjU8TMPsCiHISa_6fQZ6GUN5NZI1giKGxuFxGR4Gm-vOcl5ivKJZi/s320/oct08-k.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN-amYO1S_sfq7d5bByc6QOKKQa8bUBJ7KfaBCzQUmfvRnaXCuTwBW18yyeP-1wMtkLnTKAgq_zf5Ovs8_OnBvxw2jx5dI3eavZcsHlawSl-znJqw7SeKmFTyUXYQfjK_rFwl-glNWxtN5eGl8OgJEirdd8itvnhX9-UycMHGfIJP7K4as87Dr9VJEV35_/s1000/oct08-l.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="548" data-original-width="1000" height="175" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN-amYO1S_sfq7d5bByc6QOKKQa8bUBJ7KfaBCzQUmfvRnaXCuTwBW18yyeP-1wMtkLnTKAgq_zf5Ovs8_OnBvxw2jx5dI3eavZcsHlawSl-znJqw7SeKmFTyUXYQfjK_rFwl-glNWxtN5eGl8OgJEirdd8itvnhX9-UycMHGfIJP7K4as87Dr9VJEV35_/s320/oct08-l.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The gas works site was later </span></span>enveloped as a set of modern industrial units, with the land next to the locks given over to vegetation.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgua5OzhlUsH8Mnh-ROqTKfRrSF7pX5ObRSIwPuvBmxNsT6mMsPMT2CgKVY6MrgZOHx6FmG7j9jDI6aSQKpKax6qSE3VIPxCrQXYefHfbDCIn5-DG_SPKH1ejf5DTK7fKvN_BTbAV1jrjGr7oMyS4SXj2HdONEFqTRyBEvk2ukzCY8giLCTOPzei4RE_aY_/s1000/oct08-m.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="548" data-original-width="1000" height="175" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgua5OzhlUsH8Mnh-ROqTKfRrSF7pX5ObRSIwPuvBmxNsT6mMsPMT2CgKVY6MrgZOHx6FmG7j9jDI6aSQKpKax6qSE3VIPxCrQXYefHfbDCIn5-DG_SPKH1ejf5DTK7fKvN_BTbAV1jrjGr7oMyS4SXj2HdONEFqTRyBEvk2ukzCY8giLCTOPzei4RE_aY_/s320/oct08-m.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />At Northchurch the pumpings station built in 1840s to provide a feed to the canal from the deep chalk aquifers. There is a similar station alongside Cowroast Lock.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhISu42zH5hIojGAand-VM_oI-Hysg3m4NLuVXNA0A5Jf21Kw9b1QueSMHBWMYmqygBCxQCl8K_f7h0yfDf3E8F5MjD41qDbVCechjMZ8FZGQezkntvHp2lFN-7klFfiA5QX58-E94o_f2LUe0JAUhoUU2S8FjjW4XTCaKp502fTJ1L8RZpmWDW2Myd-Tej/s1000/oct08-n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhISu42zH5hIojGAand-VM_oI-Hysg3m4NLuVXNA0A5Jf21Kw9b1QueSMHBWMYmqygBCxQCl8K_f7h0yfDf3E8F5MjD41qDbVCechjMZ8FZGQezkntvHp2lFN-7klFfiA5QX58-E94o_f2LUe0JAUhoUU2S8FjjW4XTCaKp502fTJ1L8RZpmWDW2Myd-Tej/s320/oct08-n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Cowroast Lock took us up to the summit pound. Another boat ahead of spotted us coming and kindly waited to share with us. Mike was too distracted with dumping some rubbish that he forgot to take 'nice' photos of the lock and the attractive cottages.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR0gwgOBTs0DAfC7Ikha0yJcqA6WF9i3ENEB9KKKGXe54crWm8aAPxNiIOeb4V1cBTJuDH787nZP08I8yuTAOB2_ma-ojbl0otI3OWav57DRu1_jc56qUq0Rwv6G3QBzLIYM4lcXirUtecMuXuN3yT8OR20EBmFnnOR88DRHgFJ_fBuuKBPYc0X9NjVTWj/s1000/oct08-o.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="587" data-original-width="1000" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR0gwgOBTs0DAfC7Ikha0yJcqA6WF9i3ENEB9KKKGXe54crWm8aAPxNiIOeb4V1cBTJuDH787nZP08I8yuTAOB2_ma-ojbl0otI3OWav57DRu1_jc56qUq0Rwv6G3QBzLIYM4lcXirUtecMuXuN3yT8OR20EBmFnnOR88DRHgFJ_fBuuKBPYc0X9NjVTWj/s320/oct08-o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />We continued along the summit pound, much of which is in a wooded cutting. Whilst it is possible to moor here, the probable lack of a decent phone signal prompted us to carry on to Bulbourne. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmilDyIBN6IH1RnbuBxqkzLKwQ9IiTmE7ah7twfVm6DmnsOuLVdJJL06CLE6J7uMCBXdGyGd0bBMO-1WHQISjGxq0YRGRJmDV0AqLdPCEfeoSz7xXrgQI2lDc0komaNPJnhMGp4gLIVMB7X72oo5EuHWVNFAI2pq-qhspJqBlnVZdBAP6p15lOKqqltN8J/s1000/oct08-p.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="656" data-original-width="1000" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmilDyIBN6IH1RnbuBxqkzLKwQ9IiTmE7ah7twfVm6DmnsOuLVdJJL06CLE6J7uMCBXdGyGd0bBMO-1WHQISjGxq0YRGRJmDV0AqLdPCEfeoSz7xXrgQI2lDc0komaNPJnhMGp4gLIVMB7X72oo5EuHWVNFAI2pq-qhspJqBlnVZdBAP6p15lOKqqltN8J/s320/oct08-p.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />There is a large winding hole just before the former Bulbourne base. Perhaps this boater did not spot the sign - as usual winding holes should be kept clear in case someone needs to use them. It is often some distance to the next one. Howeve<span>r, this did raise some doubts in our minds that there may be a lack of space closer to the junction and the next long flight of locks.</span></div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzfS1pgHu9d4ylY1KPp8W_56V7HFK-E0v29VO2qW14rFtF-chjn8z-LOAi-LS0igMas_LSycDvvVAkyBLr_FWQsEPQ5PtUNrGfcQT9h6bZz62VVv5bmErGGLERb7loM6Yq-f1Eq4CsPbqL_jPTfCFIfQqsPuWfO0qfP7TgexBvPQTc8JhiVU_GB10a73QV/s1000/oct08-q.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="588" data-original-width="1000" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzfS1pgHu9d4ylY1KPp8W_56V7HFK-E0v29VO2qW14rFtF-chjn8z-LOAi-LS0igMas_LSycDvvVAkyBLr_FWQsEPQ5PtUNrGfcQT9h6bZz62VVv5bmErGGLERb7loM6Yq-f1Eq4CsPbqL_jPTfCFIfQqsPuWfO0qfP7TgexBvPQTc8JhiVU_GB10a73QV/s320/oct08-q.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The former wharf and workshops we handed over to developers a few years ago and project is nearing completion. The above photo is the iconic workshop which many feared might be swept away for a new housing block but happily it has been re-purposed.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpl0ekoBH1KYhVyxEFGX163bXnUZxj2L2on4pnEKm4a8abGFNUCN1LkcC-k6F1nozmeD2i9yNFJGwHM8DPq9UyZkO_9PK0Xv1mN9GqV1WRlMWC79QtmzoNrUH4u1yD7I3lZuu2PoHxRPDRvw8UBfgkp30HIOdhYYIiqZKdVH8HsJ4ZU8XGA4xpyZD9EuJf/s1000/oct08-r.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="1000" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpl0ekoBH1KYhVyxEFGX163bXnUZxj2L2on4pnEKm4a8abGFNUCN1LkcC-k6F1nozmeD2i9yNFJGwHM8DPq9UyZkO_9PK0Xv1mN9GqV1WRlMWC79QtmzoNrUH4u1yD7I3lZuu2PoHxRPDRvw8UBfgkp30HIOdhYYIiqZKdVH8HsJ4ZU8XGA4xpyZD9EuJf/s320/oct08-r.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />And one of the workshops has gained two extra floors.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqsN_echBnV7KrjHsvCaK0tl8ziSiyWAZurhwdPgq9ZdDGvvHP-OFyb7Kfo3N3We7zxjn3z8_p3DL1kPWK3OgLLsCuxHJQKj_473-dd5EshYR_YVZQTzW2I-YM3S8FNqHWDUQldrQhCfG5etJ4pW1uRwFdkj9Y9WGOLHGMl0sTgUeX7wayUfuzFi6qXeAz/s1000/oct08-s.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqsN_echBnV7KrjHsvCaK0tl8ziSiyWAZurhwdPgq9ZdDGvvHP-OFyb7Kfo3N3We7zxjn3z8_p3DL1kPWK3OgLLsCuxHJQKj_473-dd5EshYR_YVZQTzW2I-YM3S8FNqHWDUQldrQhCfG5etJ4pW1uRwFdkj9Y9WGOLHGMl0sTgUeX7wayUfuzFi6qXeAz/s320/oct08-s.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />These are the houses on the far side of the site. Whilst the development does not perhaps have the deep seated sense of history that might have been, but it has managed to keep much of the feel amongst an harmonious overall design. Arguably, better than the development just down the flight agt Marsworth Junction.</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_2r4DLfdfFtiHVSyc0n5lks452d7jD7COEafM9_q69ymH4P4wVUyyZycDrkGJf-tNVPx0iKulzDiOP0ptaV7jdBPuapCqmLumlKKO5jmX6BHjjh6PkcbOXL63meXp6-MnsPf9N2GhZkIFDA3tP5-cxW7EvIyzyNur4CFyd4ojMqjSR-q-8mN7gmDhzmE0/s1000/oct08-t.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_2r4DLfdfFtiHVSyc0n5lks452d7jD7COEafM9_q69ymH4P4wVUyyZycDrkGJf-tNVPx0iKulzDiOP0ptaV7jdBPuapCqmLumlKKO5jmX6BHjjh6PkcbOXL63meXp6-MnsPf9N2GhZkIFDA3tP5-cxW7EvIyzyNur4CFyd4ojMqjSR-q-8mN7gmDhzmE0/s320/oct08-t.jpg" width="320" /></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>No spaces turned up before the locks and we felt that it was now too late to start down the flight of nine locks. So, we turned left onto the Wendover Arm and made our way towards Little Tring. Progress was very slow and we wondered whether we would make it but reversing would have been even riskier.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_9oqJsWVzw8Ywwuhvgc_IyWWITVNSSpeK0NmY2QO2iE5l89CuIaQ-vOuLiU4seHL4pr6bjkubnO5U4GGLIpQfEQ9y8RVYABILZiF8suSEs66DKZlUofoS8AqlfU_g43lZ91qrHnTGKHztx1JXgJVQIBNkulvp6K6lzWGDJ6AAZ7BJ1XtimR_BshliT9Zm/s1000/oct08-u.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="512" data-original-width="1000" height="164" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_9oqJsWVzw8Ywwuhvgc_IyWWITVNSSpeK0NmY2QO2iE5l89CuIaQ-vOuLiU4seHL4pr6bjkubnO5U4GGLIpQfEQ9y8RVYABILZiF8suSEs66DKZlUofoS8AqlfU_g43lZ91qrHnTGKHztx1JXgJVQIBNkulvp6K6lzWGDJ6AAZ7BJ1XtimR_BshliT9Zm/s320/oct08-u.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />This bridge indicates that we were near to the winding hole and the limit of how far we could go. Although progress towards the end was much better we also remarked on the number of moored boats - but perhaps only about a dozen altogether. After turning around we immediately moored. By now the light was going an d so we did not take any photos . Perhaps we will rectify this omission in the morning before we leave!</div><div><br /></div><div>9.2 Miles - 13 Locks</div>Mike Toddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00067557327430064111noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6239989273407700909.post-64451423029849489452023-10-07T19:32:00.002+01:002023-10-07T19:32:39.982+01:00Bourne End<p>Today's Canal : Grand Union</p><p>Another warm - even hot - autumnal day, back to shirtsleeves, especially when working locks. We had a target for today, or at least lunch time as we have arranged to meet with Andrew who will be with us for the next part of our return trip.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx18rMy9DnHjBw5dHKoio5aQcWL5wLYMk6ymqu3RELNnMMFis7Vt_FyzRRJMzvnRTOGWxe43fH0k0xqSSHycWidRHhFBotWIB3N6_kx_8qZwzG6Y8hUkwyWDO1385dYtl8efIXuwfnMeX4lpHZ8Icdi_CD8ipqi0Xir3BiknAt5YXWleqSAuas4D75L_Vk/s1000/oct07-a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx18rMy9DnHjBw5dHKoio5aQcWL5wLYMk6ymqu3RELNnMMFis7Vt_FyzRRJMzvnRTOGWxe43fH0k0xqSSHycWidRHhFBotWIB3N6_kx_8qZwzG6Y8hUkwyWDO1385dYtl8efIXuwfnMeX4lpHZ8Icdi_CD8ipqi0Xir3BiknAt5YXWleqSAuas4D75L_Vk/s320/oct07-a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />This modern set of homes, built in an E shaped layout, was once the site of the original Ovaltine factory. The development retained the art deco frontage of the factory and can be seen on the <a href="https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.7115357,-0.4413905,3a,60y,253.77h,125.73t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sH67u08Q1PidWVyjcqkhYXQ!2e0!7i13312!8i6656?entry=ttu">Street View</a> of the other side the canal.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFEslgPk9Wgk4WDHt-mz0F6Yiaq_ImT9LNcFaQ4auToltyUkcbVgcRkTgbT5b8GarPMpIENBJeGwyHazvXS9Ctm1hZquml7tdvYJjv18mHWrFxBoH5lLsshLwMTMwxjw76zPCPitLLUalZEnOM2OnRrbK1W9Cu6Kz6co0PvMQt97NgGTILe4JBlySGltrs/s1000/oct07-b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFEslgPk9Wgk4WDHt-mz0F6Yiaq_ImT9LNcFaQ4auToltyUkcbVgcRkTgbT5b8GarPMpIENBJeGwyHazvXS9Ctm1hZquml7tdvYJjv18mHWrFxBoH5lLsshLwMTMwxjw76zPCPitLLUalZEnOM2OnRrbK1W9Cu6Kz6co0PvMQt97NgGTILe4JBlySGltrs/s320/oct07-b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />What was once called Red Lion Lock (after a nearby pub) has been renamed Nash Mills Bottom Lock. The top gates still have what is becoming and increasingly popular means of extending the life of lock gates where the balance beams have failed but the gates are still serviceable or a little longer. Judging by the weathering of the timbers this must have been one of the earlier experiments in this technique.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-p9_tDzQBdrKD2yZ1O1iS8lEgHNqjSSZTY1BDNQFG9fmZSs6r1ghlDbZZLcxgs4kykjc4Qy79INbawCnL5AU0KEafF0UUHg-oFJEsbIvE4NR986hNl75n09C86EsVMp1KA0NrXqcuOgHmnnV4pgrCmmBRaGtRM7YFasl2Q7NwVWo3rjMd7qQ5x1fBfqnQ/s1000/oct07-c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="648" data-original-width="1000" height="207" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-p9_tDzQBdrKD2yZ1O1iS8lEgHNqjSSZTY1BDNQFG9fmZSs6r1ghlDbZZLcxgs4kykjc4Qy79INbawCnL5AU0KEafF0UUHg-oFJEsbIvE4NR986hNl75n09C86EsVMp1KA0NrXqcuOgHmnnV4pgrCmmBRaGtRM7YFasl2Q7NwVWo3rjMd7qQ5x1fBfqnQ/s320/oct07-c.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />It was repeated some while later (looks like very recently, even the bolts were bright and shiny) on the opposite gate!<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdkDPjAaKCGqz0N9XP0vbiXzgPGS0nkBFYugR7RCp4Up2Yv70DqR2sumHc2g-w-eZgzJD5vurfr9-XyMoaK52m2qXuNLgF2ulZ2mAg_LhNGdFMlm82URQxHB-kxFwMQsqjiXRCu00VN4Z1B-u4jLBjF5ZVF45JjFpH3dNGpsf1XaQeh4ye-FBb5cShxw1o/s1000/oct07-d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdkDPjAaKCGqz0N9XP0vbiXzgPGS0nkBFYugR7RCp4Up2Yv70DqR2sumHc2g-w-eZgzJD5vurfr9-XyMoaK52m2qXuNLgF2ulZ2mAg_LhNGdFMlm82URQxHB-kxFwMQsqjiXRCu00VN4Z1B-u4jLBjF5ZVF45JjFpH3dNGpsf1XaQeh4ye-FBb5cShxw1o/s320/oct07-d.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The land between here and what is now Nash Mills Top Lock was once a large paper mill, part of the huge Dickenson empire, and made paper from 1769 to 2006. John Dickenson had a number of similar factories along the River Gade. The process needed huge quantities of water which he gained the right to take from the river, discharging it afterwards downstream. He came into conflict when the canal arrived as it deprived him of the certainty of supply and he sued, winning large amounts of damages. Over the past few years we have seen the site gradually develop, starting on the side furthest away from the canal and now almost complete - it looks as if some of the last to be finished have only very recently become occupied.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQUAutSfDylrJ7zm3344fzIXV7XbqykKsUCK09iFjIVSFbSzGR3rmEolQNYmHjEXxFApSdL76mcul8GMuAu7lRc77PV4hDuoNB7wt3h3hTGgmup9BBmXnvi0K3N2xF-asDEqFNGMRsDUWzJ_admBQ66St9gPGAfm6XHlj7QnJf6nBe7Op_zZ2Lam17JG0-/s1000/oct07-e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQUAutSfDylrJ7zm3344fzIXV7XbqykKsUCK09iFjIVSFbSzGR3rmEolQNYmHjEXxFApSdL76mcul8GMuAu7lRc77PV4hDuoNB7wt3h3hTGgmup9BBmXnvi0K3N2xF-asDEqFNGMRsDUWzJ_admBQ66St9gPGAfm6XHlj7QnJf6nBe7Op_zZ2Lam17JG0-/s320/oct07-e.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The Top Lock was fitted with new gates, perhaps last winter. The gates were very smooth but the paddle gear was extremely unkeen to move. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHdhcHp_y93gsxzIxFV63eYW0XM2T4JOKgIYQpI_3lUZBKpZuw82Sm3MgZgGoGxrXeuzqDbyMMxtCriIBSqjmWyRT-z7rwZ5W9Y_p8JvwELqANvDCdkOB-cRHlQxJ3u3JCZWJrecd6_dE8twPpgq3l-fuz1rlpenzIm8sU4lR8c5S0hRHosYB85-MjPma8/s1000/oct07-f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="643" data-original-width="1000" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHdhcHp_y93gsxzIxFV63eYW0XM2T4JOKgIYQpI_3lUZBKpZuw82Sm3MgZgGoGxrXeuzqDbyMMxtCriIBSqjmWyRT-z7rwZ5W9Y_p8JvwELqANvDCdkOB-cRHlQxJ3u3JCZWJrecd6_dE8twPpgq3l-fuz1rlpenzIm8sU4lR8c5S0hRHosYB85-MjPma8/s320/oct07-f.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The old balance beams have been re-purposed as substantial seats for passers by!<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJlARJLekcCgufLk59nZ-xHkb4ZahahLv3EeSo1uDnfyoU06n7UEIjA4hrtUAe2X3BfHk-H5dYO-ysMRNG_L8avMnm-YT3v4oXilAxZmVKSJ7f6Z_pi8__ATH5llfj74oPHBEDGvEcy-F-PdglnpYQmVD3XeZSi_yHJzQWlwNGlDbYs7-Fi1OnzuujvBYW/s1000/oct07-g.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJlARJLekcCgufLk59nZ-xHkb4ZahahLv3EeSo1uDnfyoU06n7UEIjA4hrtUAe2X3BfHk-H5dYO-ysMRNG_L8avMnm-YT3v4oXilAxZmVKSJ7f6Z_pi8__ATH5llfj74oPHBEDGvEcy-F-PdglnpYQmVD3XeZSi_yHJzQWlwNGlDbYs7-Fi1OnzuujvBYW/s320/oct07-g.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />We arrived at Apsley Lock much according to our schedule and pulled onto the service mooring for water, elsan and rubbish.<p></p><p>Andrew was expected in the next hour and we were able to find just one remaining slot a coupleof boats ahead where we could wait without blocking the services. Mike then went to Sainsburys just across on the other side of the canal.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgadw3FYGjrWKcpnLwuDUqUuG9kUcIUQ8O_S0JWtGCMcNHYn86iaPvn3Sv7nmtj0Aejb-gFp9E0V4D_p5fZQBfnCLYKhSCZaavZIxMnKWbHz8emz4_KSblknj0ahdzjGzi3bnQ-SECYdzAj8oINYLwvgjFnwkdGKF2T2PxnkAg7hag-oPAl6GBGOThd8z1U/s1000/oct07-h.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="728" data-original-width="1000" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgadw3FYGjrWKcpnLwuDUqUuG9kUcIUQ8O_S0JWtGCMcNHYn86iaPvn3Sv7nmtj0Aejb-gFp9E0V4D_p5fZQBfnCLYKhSCZaavZIxMnKWbHz8emz4_KSblknj0ahdzjGzi3bnQ-SECYdzAj8oINYLwvgjFnwkdGKF2T2PxnkAg7hag-oPAl6GBGOThd8z1U/s320/oct07-h.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />This too was the site of another of John Dickenson's mills - as this reminder display shows. With a now enhanced crew we set off for the next part of our journey.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwDI92YHx8lzOhlCf3NFwmwfvR2DH5684sIXjOa-bXB5XCXbye1gYGn8RGUrIafMeAgWUEYB3Uj-wu_BiH8v8ha3v6LDAPVYxPbGLqiYUtfun1ZJ_A3we8zBj4tZCbhFdDNIbw5XJbj_CR6MSF9PB0WRxhiqLCLGa4s2FS_p_tMTTdyAIQXG15lbEg64om/s1000/oct07-i.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="599" data-original-width="1000" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwDI92YHx8lzOhlCf3NFwmwfvR2DH5684sIXjOa-bXB5XCXbye1gYGn8RGUrIafMeAgWUEYB3Uj-wu_BiH8v8ha3v6LDAPVYxPbGLqiYUtfun1ZJ_A3we8zBj4tZCbhFdDNIbw5XJbj_CR6MSF9PB0WRxhiqLCLGa4s2FS_p_tMTTdyAIQXG15lbEg64om/s320/oct07-i.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Alas, this lock cottage seems to be all but abandoned. When we came by in 2021, it looked as if something was happening but perhaps that hope has now died.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguh_2kjWRHZdyhQRiEp0Erwxi1CZV_qgDdor2jyn3kMMFKomDQksSA5ZwchdUPibJWOdbra23MR3R6Ij19C1W93teIeTaUQtMKABqlW9SdWYbZ7Lt3GoYmV7rvcPY95oyOczKE3yP49lhOjpCttNlklvLxlqQAKpgG32g5xbgPz7EA5BTPDUCNnq6TBfhY/s1000/oct07-j.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguh_2kjWRHZdyhQRiEp0Erwxi1CZV_qgDdor2jyn3kMMFKomDQksSA5ZwchdUPibJWOdbra23MR3R6Ij19C1W93teIeTaUQtMKABqlW9SdWYbZ7Lt3GoYmV7rvcPY95oyOczKE3yP49lhOjpCttNlklvLxlqQAKpgG32g5xbgPz7EA5BTPDUCNnq6TBfhY/s320/oct07-j.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />On the opposite side is a new development - in some ways the architecture is a bit more interesting than plain boxes but the impact is spoilt by the very enclosed and tiny back gardens, detracting from the broader sweep of the houses themselves.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnpaxa89TdzT2N6XZEW_DRlNpoIaYHgBRRicNwDok5QzQtJklZi-e0TK7cJXM3dtqJ1m7RsHb6RYEDU5bL6Wf5zjieAhP4GNiE87brajG6HFWNMNLRe4RUHvtNwPpKuy0yUljpV9kJtfmrDsgJ5zuDOohWMrCCMDdoHdic1t4sN1UuqH50M1-O6Yy_DewH/s1000/oct07-k.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnpaxa89TdzT2N6XZEW_DRlNpoIaYHgBRRicNwDok5QzQtJklZi-e0TK7cJXM3dtqJ1m7RsHb6RYEDU5bL6Wf5zjieAhP4GNiE87brajG6HFWNMNLRe4RUHvtNwPpKuy0yUljpV9kJtfmrDsgJ5zuDOohWMrCCMDdoHdic1t4sN1UuqH50M1-O6Yy_DewH/s320/oct07-k.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The space alongside the main road bridge across the canal into Hemel Hempstead was once a significant trading wharf, with plenty of traffic coming up from the docks in London. A variety of goods once dominated in their time but one of the last trades to survive was the delivery of lime juice imported into London and used in a nearby factory to make lime cordial.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNtTU28xQOl7Z3oiR9lM2SC22I-Hkr9oh7xIOwDUTvgXzzRwCxWl61Nny-g96K5fq2bLYn6CRaaWCcCf3bnX6myN6GRM_zJN0R5VV0lpRwjxSpFBKKcaVvwRPtFum4hOG1bVFu4RTQP8KYKjNWag3a-NWJJLocjYJwTBbDmxgRXYTu6FN984Qm8y7_i3hP/s1000/oct07-l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="685" data-original-width="1000" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNtTU28xQOl7Z3oiR9lM2SC22I-Hkr9oh7xIOwDUTvgXzzRwCxWl61Nny-g96K5fq2bLYn6CRaaWCcCf3bnX6myN6GRM_zJN0R5VV0lpRwjxSpFBKKcaVvwRPtFum4hOG1bVFu4RTQP8KYKjNWag3a-NWJJLocjYJwTBbDmxgRXYTu6FN984Qm8y7_i3hP/s320/oct07-l.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The fuel prices at the boatyard in Winkwell must be amongst the best at the moment (assuming they are up to date) They must be at least recent as it is not that long ago (pre Ukraine invasion) that a gas bottle was well under £30. Our most recent one was £45.50.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu5OoS32i7UMlg0f_RtSNH876VgmdojNqvQp2OiWF6VrEiVgTT_TB0ge98gTnRYs8Y2vEKWs6qeehjyYwo39zRXFTqZBCGjQ0KKNxm5rRfFej38QGxtP8Z6TK4zGdsWTK0kh37fuSO9lfM5W3q4Y5tcaSGbvjIMK_xaGhBoInBuOEtXwLc_manFL6yDphA/s1000/oct07-m.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="685" data-original-width="1000" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu5OoS32i7UMlg0f_RtSNH876VgmdojNqvQp2OiWF6VrEiVgTT_TB0ge98gTnRYs8Y2vEKWs6qeehjyYwo39zRXFTqZBCGjQ0KKNxm5rRfFej38QGxtP8Z6TK4zGdsWTK0kh37fuSO9lfM5W3q4Y5tcaSGbvjIMK_xaGhBoInBuOEtXwLc_manFL6yDphA/s320/oct07-m.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Our last lock of the day was Bourne End Bottom Lock (there is now no Top Lock!) as little short of Berkhamsted. As the picture shows we were able to recruit a couple of cyclists taking a break, to help close up as this was also another 'Leave Empty' lock. We were by now in a more rural location and ter were gaps along the towpath. Alas, the first we tried we could not get anywhere near enough to the bank and then, here, it still took a while to find anything usable, and then we had to deploy the shorter gangplank!<p></p><p>5.2 Miles - 12 Locks</p>Mike Toddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00067557327430064111noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6239989273407700909.post-25293904313023233162023-10-06T17:59:00.000+01:002023-10-06T17:59:20.364+01:00Home Park, Kings LangleyToday's Canal - Grand Union<div><br /></div><div>Today the weather was more like late spring or even some summer days - bright and eventually very warm.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOPLTDvrVrSzTqi_p_7srFYiA6D5S3EBECFAIaKcki_d5CqOnhnyvKyTSdT07OyLbDzDg4r3VLCtJfs4g122bCgVQ_otjArsSBl5udcXGE12PeDkRNPfrWBy_wDDgpzgshShOrSrJetetJNSz5bR76F_xReaGJwKKF0grEyESjW3idQUMG5jZE1sCu4Alq/s1000/oct06-a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOPLTDvrVrSzTqi_p_7srFYiA6D5S3EBECFAIaKcki_d5CqOnhnyvKyTSdT07OyLbDzDg4r3VLCtJfs4g122bCgVQ_otjArsSBl5udcXGE12PeDkRNPfrWBy_wDDgpzgshShOrSrJetetJNSz5bR76F_xReaGJwKKF0grEyESjW3idQUMG5jZE1sCu4Alq/s320/oct06-a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />We had been moored under the high viaduct which carries almost the last part of the Metropolitan line to Watford underground station (not the very much busier main line Watford Junction). There were well advanced plans to re-route this final part so that it ran into Watford Junction as the present station is not in much demand and rather out of the way, the suburb having developed perhaps rather differently than the original constructors anticipated. Alas, a few years ago the project was cancelled almost as the diggers were due on site. Hence trains still run overhead here. In fact we were not really disturbed as they run quite slowly as the approach the end of the line, are not that frequent and are well up above the canal/</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSX5Q90-x1kPzr_XbJrk1sj8yiC5N0A2IaDfLpK7VcYm7Wp3xeczykzx85xHdTiw3mjTI5NzTnqCy9CWWmIlZqLMvr_GuHs7hGrfv1I7Uo00E79lsKCofWZYSsgTae0yXOzG4oKVetx6nEUXR4vwatdScKFV4rDp12F2z-hh8KFW0SdFDM9knvbhbC3IQk/s1000/oct06-b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSX5Q90-x1kPzr_XbJrk1sj8yiC5N0A2IaDfLpK7VcYm7Wp3xeczykzx85xHdTiw3mjTI5NzTnqCy9CWWmIlZqLMvr_GuHs7hGrfv1I7Uo00E79lsKCofWZYSsgTae0yXOzG4oKVetx6nEUXR4vwatdScKFV4rDp12F2z-hh8KFW0SdFDM9knvbhbC3IQk/s320/oct06-b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />A magnifying glass might reveal that our first lock of the day was only a couple of boats away. As we waited for the lock to fill we managed to capture one of the trains on the viaduct. Above the lock we stopped at the water point to fill our rather empty tank. Alas it was a very slow tap and even after three quarters of an hour we were still not full but patience ran out as we had enough to take us to the nect point in Apsley.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW6CSAnwyqbs3QUVx2u0Go-QayCAt56bZ7oxP6HEa3XerQFgGu_mWZG-QqCrGo6z7M-mbecramO7zLQN9DxuNalavoPVp0-84FO4ML1IFsOUEb2oy4Dgg7tB_VX3F1dzwDQUt0nIApKhsWYnh07tCtRGXsKNm5MvENnB-MJYUdTpTE3l6zcpOfJvJMr_fF/s1000/oct06-c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="561" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW6CSAnwyqbs3QUVx2u0Go-QayCAt56bZ7oxP6HEa3XerQFgGu_mWZG-QqCrGo6z7M-mbecramO7zLQN9DxuNalavoPVp0-84FO4ML1IFsOUEb2oy4Dgg7tB_VX3F1dzwDQUt0nIApKhsWYnh07tCtRGXsKNm5MvENnB-MJYUdTpTE3l6zcpOfJvJMr_fF/s320/oct06-c.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Most of the lock cottages along here seem to be occupied but this one is empty and in a bit of a sorry state. Hopefully something will happen soon or it will deteriorate beyond economic repair.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizdjUim4k5OXPFu9jLikaqHPfws7J6sG9FsuK-Ny5suTYE1SrOW9aMTrOGzrKcQbDBtZvjy30xUNd7de-2Im9IWfUDDMfxSrLVm7uoBpYfVibk2wPBDlVa2eAY8cRrGxA6L5BAypCjxA3DcYnDgiNLZjRDEieed_H4FMG9ZKKx2sjfEU3XRMUp9c4-RGFZ/s1000/oct06-d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizdjUim4k5OXPFu9jLikaqHPfws7J6sG9FsuK-Ny5suTYE1SrOW9aMTrOGzrKcQbDBtZvjy30xUNd7de-2Im9IWfUDDMfxSrLVm7uoBpYfVibk2wPBDlVa2eAY8cRrGxA6L5BAypCjxA3DcYnDgiNLZjRDEieed_H4FMG9ZKKx2sjfEU3XRMUp9c4-RGFZ/s320/oct06-d.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />As we approached Iron Lock in Cassiobury Park we were surprised not to see lots of onlookers - every time we have been through here before it has always been busy. The park seems to be especially popular with local residents. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiowkImGOyJKE42Y84G8iKID1HQRoHCAtttVz8brvBpWteH44RXYlU_qlXwzHhlztzohX2qR8kHO2s5Tpuw-8gqU2aeMg8EcZIlrQQJICWB-WjlGBN7-ltEtRyCo_CIRIMCLudFJ4zWdeUJP8z4TujP8hWiUh6cntPsTfa4_msRmYccwc1lD4xgyncLwVJi/s1000/oct06-e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiowkImGOyJKE42Y84G8iKID1HQRoHCAtttVz8brvBpWteH44RXYlU_qlXwzHhlztzohX2qR8kHO2s5Tpuw-8gqU2aeMg8EcZIlrQQJICWB-WjlGBN7-ltEtRyCo_CIRIMCLudFJ4zWdeUJP8z4TujP8hWiUh6cntPsTfa4_msRmYccwc1lD4xgyncLwVJi/s320/oct06-e.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />How wrong could we be? Not long after we entered the lock lots of people arrived, including several small groups from a nearby school. We did 'borrow' one of the lads to help open the bottom gate as it proved rather stubborn. A temporary notice on the top gates explained that the top ground paddle culverts were almost blocked and we should expect that it would take at least 20 minutes to fill. It did! However we had plenty of interest chatting to onlookers (one lady was interested in Sun Printers in Watford) and a couple of young ladies filmed themselves doing a short dance - it took many takes before they were satisfied. perhaps it is now on TikTok.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7t0WFEFTAW9bOQgcZYOVco2oAx9Gp_Dhta6KTsDZGRnJvLnP5GyFDrXIN9TVpmwU1FEAvM5AMXdsIBbnUXzAMuDnGY3SGcHBm97Ln2RwfJ6yDjYliI9-p2eh1RYTtWZN6lfPUX5Ifm96RSJ5kqEqn-P7DZz5yljRX8IIaFz9aE8psojMv8vpj0-DP7PJ8/s1000/oct06-f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="561" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7t0WFEFTAW9bOQgcZYOVco2oAx9Gp_Dhta6KTsDZGRnJvLnP5GyFDrXIN9TVpmwU1FEAvM5AMXdsIBbnUXzAMuDnGY3SGcHBm97Ln2RwfJ6yDjYliI9-p2eh1RYTtWZN6lfPUX5Ifm96RSJ5kqEqn-P7DZz5yljRX8IIaFz9aE8psojMv8vpj0-DP7PJ8/s320/oct06-f.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Most of the locks from here to the summit are spaced out, with the occasional pairs closer together as here at Cassiobury Park, Bottom and Top. We had a wait at the first as a single hander was already coming down from the top, the Bottom Lock having been set for him by a member of CaRT staff - who then carried on to whatever he was doing out of our sight.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_GGGuy8JWdD3b8M65amUVUw5y3sDRvdn0P1swMyvblAvy4mPu8f91Ln3cxNRqqCP5vo3ATvnqRnfnIkftveE1oaMaVxRhpm6ar8uP7ARNpcz6mlTi4v3rTMte7TgCQ_5VKWsNmsRTFo4D9rBzaabCTsUpqdyqpcYmcHz0yNgKKDeFgETDTqUShd_m61QW/s1000/oct06-g.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_GGGuy8JWdD3b8M65amUVUw5y3sDRvdn0P1swMyvblAvy4mPu8f91Ln3cxNRqqCP5vo3ATvnqRnfnIkftveE1oaMaVxRhpm6ar8uP7ARNpcz6mlTi4v3rTMte7TgCQ_5VKWsNmsRTFo4D9rBzaabCTsUpqdyqpcYmcHz0yNgKKDeFgETDTqUShd_m61QW/s320/oct06-g.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The Top Lock, like several today, is required to be left empty with a paddle up. Although earlier ones had indicated some unspecified water management issue, this one makes it clear that it is to do with water loss through the lock walls. This seems to have been a common problem on this part of the Grand Union where the lock cottages were built 'upside down' that is, with the upper floor are canal level and the main living areas down below. These rooms can get rather damp, we have read, if locks are left full.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiItMpUe1SJugLw55y38WJrUqHAym2gBnNo6kDSwvWV5bKs9VWuvYZyW_IkabroohiyGY_VxRE0DCptF93QdQjpMTwaqp7s6V4EOmwfagYuA1j1pyVmAUU_mUG5qL5i6EqwfSztmpn52_AX0xil1X9zKZtcC3DHzTcGH2jAkkVmx0z5TYVCRyhf29eNOU56/s1000/oct06-h.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="561" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiItMpUe1SJugLw55y38WJrUqHAym2gBnNo6kDSwvWV5bKs9VWuvYZyW_IkabroohiyGY_VxRE0DCptF93QdQjpMTwaqp7s6V4EOmwfagYuA1j1pyVmAUU_mUG5qL5i6EqwfSztmpn52_AX0xil1X9zKZtcC3DHzTcGH2jAkkVmx0z5TYVCRyhf29eNOU56/s320/oct06-h.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The splendid former Grove Mill is now apartments (no doubt up market).</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjMQ3EN0LRNfWIh5u58US9lgbOPJPr3Y2eMDzhYOEa-laOD7J2Rqvt27CFp_Gs9G4CEUb0wwdb8UVe7uo5HcMoj1hXUphMRctd-v4aZLI0xe8epMfc3Ivvdg9RPEQr0IqMqb3w2tF6xikm2rhTkzeChUeAEU1vmAlZIWX8z2vTXYCfwQzh05Y2mwIAkgFf/s1000/oct06-i.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="579" data-original-width="1000" height="185" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjMQ3EN0LRNfWIh5u58US9lgbOPJPr3Y2eMDzhYOEa-laOD7J2Rqvt27CFp_Gs9G4CEUb0wwdb8UVe7uo5HcMoj1hXUphMRctd-v4aZLI0xe8epMfc3Ivvdg9RPEQr0IqMqb3w2tF6xikm2rhTkzeChUeAEU1vmAlZIWX8z2vTXYCfwQzh05Y2mwIAkgFf/s320/oct06-i.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Just beyond, the ornamental Grove Bridge is no longer easy to photograph in the way in which scenic pictures used to depict it. The canalside vegetation has been allowed to grow freely and the best views are no longer open!</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT7EiFTAvTlbpnterWXEAv43c5u3PdxvWAW9kMQNYSA5Myn4ec6dBOjDVHOZyOFkpN_oc1bludlcU7JnsDo27awDnT_L4arLA8DVOUIpNjR-7l0O2AP3YWT-pi5v20qxt5hwGgoSNv-xqH2haNOt2Nhq-e31u82PBExsMuImxhJA2ibcz_E0AT1Ujj8wc0/s1000/oct06-j.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="579" data-original-width="1000" height="185" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT7EiFTAvTlbpnterWXEAv43c5u3PdxvWAW9kMQNYSA5Myn4ec6dBOjDVHOZyOFkpN_oc1bludlcU7JnsDo27awDnT_L4arLA8DVOUIpNjR-7l0O2AP3YWT-pi5v20qxt5hwGgoSNv-xqH2haNOt2Nhq-e31u82PBExsMuImxhJA2ibcz_E0AT1Ujj8wc0/s320/oct06-j.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />We came up Lady Capel's Lock and then moored for lunch. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjocWdvVbeBeUMQKIFue2r1djTBcnWs-O9dtMA8VykfF9-bcY0kjlDHE2QglkpMcHEhbrIPj4OzV_LJVGRcteUV2yrEJTE8xBAr5aSCYeGAVeKz4zH5CzMfMna1TiEtxz9PVzntituAilaCb78oYwArExNbUmWoLzsoidqdhmeMDmvzW5yfVoJq1Md5yd7u/s1000/oct06-k.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="562" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjocWdvVbeBeUMQKIFue2r1djTBcnWs-O9dtMA8VykfF9-bcY0kjlDHE2QglkpMcHEhbrIPj4OzV_LJVGRcteUV2yrEJTE8xBAr5aSCYeGAVeKz4zH5CzMfMna1TiEtxz9PVzntituAilaCb78oYwArExNbUmWoLzsoidqdhmeMDmvzW5yfVoJq1Md5yd7u/s320/oct06-k.jpg" width="180" /></a></div><br />The dates on bricks set as foot holds by the gates amused us - did it really take two years to progress three bricks?</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmLDq81nzCvtx3RGEg6lnuAel3xuaApH7zfMlAJhGqDOgQWkBXbBPEEgOnJINcb8COmVbQWtdx35mctNXcasShSnbV6vqUaEPrTK4SVNJ1AE0Wa32RqOwXWICv53iM6XQtUjsQg1kLxVlZ4jcR7oHdQWw7pkQiG3vNqdxDA1-I5vli9lxcv_EBJiEZo6mB/s3352/oct06-l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1941" data-original-width="3352" height="185" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmLDq81nzCvtx3RGEg6lnuAel3xuaApH7zfMlAJhGqDOgQWkBXbBPEEgOnJINcb8COmVbQWtdx35mctNXcasShSnbV6vqUaEPrTK4SVNJ1AE0Wa32RqOwXWICv53iM6XQtUjsQg1kLxVlZ4jcR7oHdQWw7pkQiG3vNqdxDA1-I5vli9lxcv_EBJiEZo6mB/s320/oct06-l.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Lunch was rather late - 1.30 by the time we were moored so our afternoon session was also delayed! At Hunton Bridge Bottom Lock we met a young couple coming down who were fairly new to boating. They had spent the past few months near Birmingham setting up the boat which they had just bought so that they can live aboard and are now heading down to London. Fortunately they have been warned about the difficulties that mooring long term in London entails but they are determined to make it happen!</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh53SMtd9mE73lI6WMhV5IuT6z6M_AmQJhcTEdZpAVKkhnxzbbUXGvVIwi8o3_sH7onIaUaC7vFjlLFWTuLipEHeyJdmkyEoeFy0U60e7DZ_oYu9IUr_0itDKJoZD1rkd-bW6P_wJpccOTah8ijubhj5zhz6HHVuTcUJtMidkRHI3q4fZYiivyye6idqgJO/s562/oct06-m.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="321" data-original-width="562" height="183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh53SMtd9mE73lI6WMhV5IuT6z6M_AmQJhcTEdZpAVKkhnxzbbUXGvVIwi8o3_sH7onIaUaC7vFjlLFWTuLipEHeyJdmkyEoeFy0U60e7DZ_oYu9IUr_0itDKJoZD1rkd-bW6P_wJpccOTah8ijubhj5zhz6HHVuTcUJtMidkRHI3q4fZYiivyye6idqgJO/s320/oct06-m.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiX6WSxKFvOV5grYnbqnuhMYjMBPqLT_JPTh-RH4Wyd8su3AGge3I0p8v7akUlOBzO2Vgrwm4toP_WfWWCXxs4K6kshxn-mwLST5E2hxHOLrYL6V8PTqEdqOleJRyz4TbCAJP7z1n4MvAN4BqRPDfXhQhT22lUI_hjswjcxbzXm8Td5ZD_cw2gVhKORP9h/s1000/oct06-n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="514" data-original-width="1000" height="164" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiX6WSxKFvOV5grYnbqnuhMYjMBPqLT_JPTh-RH4Wyd8su3AGge3I0p8v7akUlOBzO2Vgrwm4toP_WfWWCXxs4K6kshxn-mwLST5E2hxHOLrYL6V8PTqEdqOleJRyz4TbCAJP7z1n4MvAN4BqRPDfXhQhT22lUI_hjswjcxbzXm8Td5ZD_cw2gVhKORP9h/s320/oct06-n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Hunton Bridge Top Lock has two cottages, one either side. We have never so far been able to work out the history of this arrangement. Like many lock cottages, the one on the off side only has access over a narrow footbridge. Not sure how the removal companies manage!</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgneDU-4a-euUoF76Bh7F1yWvcRfPFfNkEFLhTC0hDo1K-yNx-CmMke9pBb9PdvLuMpjxv4ReH7FeSrKhOt73oiRTrTHB_nkxtvxrilILnkjMcbcf-BxIxHeGvTFB46ScOA-XbHiIX_kD_z6AXltUjs-jSGbwPGl153sOAr6BH4AqbsocOjzpWfs04pjdhT/s1000/oct06-o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="613" data-original-width="1000" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgneDU-4a-euUoF76Bh7F1yWvcRfPFfNkEFLhTC0hDo1K-yNx-CmMke9pBb9PdvLuMpjxv4ReH7FeSrKhOt73oiRTrTHB_nkxtvxrilILnkjMcbcf-BxIxHeGvTFB46ScOA-XbHiIX_kD_z6AXltUjs-jSGbwPGl153sOAr6BH4AqbsocOjzpWfs04pjdhT/s320/oct06-o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Again, the long views we remember of the M25 viaduct are nearly all obscured by new vegetation leaving only this view to one side from quite close up. Still very impressive!</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDaW3r9jAC9Jl-pWbkzn2dA-YJH8ha7Qgnm70bz4Gtg7tUf2HL3WuZj1okhtH5ZdfHt1LZRqvxO-HmGAIYfSFz6HYZi-YVil91RAwgJJR6AMjE3-8KsIfduVzSyX-xWNVhd3AMl1GhyoPumeFp-DqY0-aahv9TGeJpHC5-MF4D52CroTLU0Hhlkk7U5xDo/s1000/oct06-p.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="580" data-original-width="1000" height="186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDaW3r9jAC9Jl-pWbkzn2dA-YJH8ha7Qgnm70bz4Gtg7tUf2HL3WuZj1okhtH5ZdfHt1LZRqvxO-HmGAIYfSFz6HYZi-YVil91RAwgJJR6AMjE3-8KsIfduVzSyX-xWNVhd3AMl1GhyoPumeFp-DqY0-aahv9TGeJpHC5-MF4D52CroTLU0Hhlkk7U5xDo/s320/oct06-p.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Our final lock today was at Home Park on the southern edge of Kings Langley. When we came by in 2021, this <a href="https://nbalchemy.blogspot.com/2021/07/stockers-lock.html">cottage </a>was on the market for offers over £600,000. New owners seem to have settled in. We moored for the night just above the lock.</div><div><br /></div><div>4.5 Miles - 9 Locks</div>Mike Toddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00067557327430064111noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6239989273407700909.post-37354872339361906962023-10-05T18:00:00.002+01:002023-10-06T10:39:09.027+01:00Have prop - ready to go!<p>Today's canal - Grand Union </p><p>When we left the story a couple of weeks ago we were still being a bit vague about exactly what was damaged. As this was recommended bu RCTR as an insurance claim we wanted to be assured that everyone was agreed on the diagnosis and the necessary repairs. We are not particularly au fait with what a good or a bad prop and drive shaft should look like and much of the working parts are invisible. Hence we relied on the experts to decide. The prop, shaft, stern tube and coupler all needed to be replaced - remember that prior to the incident we were unaware of any undue vibration through the tiller arm (the usual way that one learns about problems 'down under')</p><p>We have been back at home for a couple of weeks whilst RCR (Canal Contracting) arranged for the boat to be repaired. The initial step was to have the boat towed to the nearest boatyard that could do the work - this turned out to be P and S at Watford. The last we had seen of nb Alchemy was it being towed backwards to the nearest winding hole! However, the boatyard could not start for almost a week - they do have their own large crane but have a steady stream of work, particularly in lifting boats for surveys, blacking and prop repairs. Until they could lift the boat out they could not assess the damage and order parts. This was done a week ago and the parts arrived on Monday.</p><p>Alas, the new prop arrived itself already damaged! (Well, at least it saves the next obstruction having to do the work . . . ) The boatyard were able to do the rest of the work and when another prop arrived on Tuesday it was fitted immediately. By then it was too late in the day to put the boat back in the water so that had to wait until Wednesday,</p><p>We were on tenterhooks all day with no news and by now we were all ready, packed and mostly loaded into the car so that we could make a good start today. Eventually the call came and we were 'good to go'.</p><p>Christine had another appointment with the osteopath at 10:15 for a half hour of follow up treatment to her neck - the initial session last week seems to have had good results. Whilst this was happening Mike made a quick trip to the weekly market for some fruit and veg and also popped to the filling station to ensure that we had a full tank of diesel.</p><p>The journey up was straightforward and slightly quicker than the ETA; much of the route was now quite familiar, only the final part on the M25 and then the urban roads around Rickmansworth were new territory. Having sussed out the journey on Google Street View we at least knew where the entrance to the marina was, it is not exactly easy to spot.</p><p>We made contact with the boatyard who showed us the damaged and replaced parts. (We have little idea about the detail of the damage - we were entirely reliant on the initial report from the rescue engineer) However, they had had to move the boat out onto the towpath to make room for the next job but offered to bring it across to the service wharf for the marina. (The boatyard is a quite separate business from the marina so sometimes interactions need negotiations!) However we did need access from the car to the boat in order to unload supplies. In the end this was quite straightforward. We did, in any case, need to replace a gas bottle. We also made sure that the fuel tank was topped up but it was nearly full anyway.</p><p>The marina were keen that we moved the boat off the wharf as soon as possible in case another boat arrived. Not many customers at this time of the year but, as it turned out, as soon as we left a boat coming down the next lock did want supplies so if we had not moved we would have bneen in the way! Fortunately the space where the boat had been overnight was still vacant - there are plenty of long stayers in these parts so moorings are not always easy to find.</p><p>Whilst Christine stowed stuff away, Mike the main road bridge alongside, and drove to the nearby Morrisons for the planned shopping trip. He took with him the neighbouring boater (fitting out his latest project boat - he is a professional interior carpenter by trade, more kitchens than boats right now) who had mentioned earlier that he was also need to go there. At least this meant that Mike had a bit of help carrying the load back from the car to the towpath.</p><p>By the time we were all packed away it felt a bit late to set off and we managed to tie up just clear of the marina entrance.</p><p>At this stage we can pay tribute to RCR who made all the arrangements including the initial 'rescue' and the tow. We would have found it quite hard to know where to turn if on our own as we are not familiar with the services in this part of the system. Tushka (hope that is the right spelling of her name, we have not seen it written!) has handled all the interactions, including with the insurer and been very willing to keep us in the loop at each stage. Thanks!</p><div>At</div>Mike Toddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00067557327430064111noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6239989273407700909.post-81647448934525690022023-09-22T18:00:00.002+01:002023-09-23T18:35:26.031+01:00Alchemy gets a towWe had been asked to be ready for the tug to arrive at 8.30, so we set the alarm for 6.30. By 7.30, Mike set off for the first wheelbarrow trip to the wharf, this time for disposals.<div><br /></div><div>There was no sign of the tug and then we had a text saying that he expected to be with us by 9.15. Time for another wheelbarrow trip, this time to the car with the frozen food.</div><div><br /></div><div>Still nothing and later a phone call to ask if we were at the Swan and Bottle - this is a canalside pub in Uxbridge. This would be at least two hours away! There had been some communication error as the tug chap had been told to go to Denham!</div><div><br /></div><div>Time the for a third wheelbarrow trip. We had already arranged that the tow could stop at the wharf for a short time just to allow us to offload stuff into the car, but we did not want to delay the to any more than necessary.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdrvPJB8i9dacnflkzi6_gS3A_B3YH80TemfgwmHO0MWKf7vO89mo3STHDjSXkIz7WHuRJoz52glQBmhz08aXHii8YR_uSB6CyIWNPIsHDzkkQoOTo1ETYWNZSVeaVMq2ij1pwcaxymvW0BAh28ho3Zop1ye0LFXVdbTHMGpuAU4JSyRXTa9Qqug1Uwut6/s1000/sep22-a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1000" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdrvPJB8i9dacnflkzi6_gS3A_B3YH80TemfgwmHO0MWKf7vO89mo3STHDjSXkIz7WHuRJoz52glQBmhz08aXHii8YR_uSB6CyIWNPIsHDzkkQoOTo1ETYWNZSVeaVMq2ij1pwcaxymvW0BAh28ho3Zop1ye0LFXVdbTHMGpuAU4JSyRXTa9Qqug1Uwut6/s320/sep22-a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Mid day and we started to see movement in the distance which gradually turned into a distinct tug shape. After a brief discussion, Neil decided to tow us in reverse rather than go on to the next winding hole and back. The nearest point to turn in the Cowley direction is nearer but reversing is always harder. Also the water depth improves in that direction, whilst gradually becoming shallower towards Slough.</div><div><br /></div><div>Progress was slow, principally because of weed and at least one stop was needed to clear the tug's prop. Eventually we arrived at the wharf (about third of a mile) and one of the boatyard staff quickly came out (probably from a lunch break!) to help pull us alongside. Luckily there was a good gap alongside (there often is none at all) and so the tug and boat could tie up together.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKnwcRJKHuQyL3Wy5ewNC6Uz2IXaAqUgzqITp8irzTjYL4cxPfkm3-RuBQwjCvhQ4hv7uh6vB6h7u9buov8xUSpvgc1qaC8jKhKkB0Sq1fubex0M5VE2fWe3tWQZSJqet2ivDhvLhx8hlOnaq4mDNiRayRHR3_qwQjAmflyke4frWPusIhwS05u7n05xv1/s1000/sep22-b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="568" data-original-width="1000" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKnwcRJKHuQyL3Wy5ewNC6Uz2IXaAqUgzqITp8irzTjYL4cxPfkm3-RuBQwjCvhQ4hv7uh6vB6h7u9buov8xUSpvgc1qaC8jKhKkB0Sq1fubex0M5VE2fWe3tWQZSJqet2ivDhvLhx8hlOnaq4mDNiRayRHR3_qwQjAmflyke4frWPusIhwS05u7n05xv1/s320/sep22-b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />It took us only a short time to complete the offloading and the tug could continue its way to Watford (it was now expected to get there the next day rather than late today as had been planned) We could also leave and make our way back home by car.</div>Mike Toddhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00067557327430064111noreply@blogger.com0