Newark

Today's Navigation - River Trent

There is only one word that really captures the essence of much of today: wet. It had not rained overnight and it was still dry when Mike walked a short distance to a nearby newspaper shop.

On the way back he passed close to Trent Bridge, home to Nottingham Cricket and managed just a narrow glimpse through a gate to the pitch inside. He also walked in front of the impressive County Hall. From on top of Trent Bridge the moored boats looked most diminutive. He then returned to the boat where it was soon time to set off.

Initially we headed short distance upstream to Wilford Suspension Bridge, officially the limit of navigation, although boats have been reported making their way almost to below the next weir, but with mixed success. There was a report earlier this year of one that had to be rescued when it became stuck in shallow water!

Alongside the river stands the war memorial for the people of the city who died in the two world wars.

As we returned back to Trent Bridge the rain gradually started falling. At first it was not much more than a light drizzle and it was still possible to take some photos. he legendary football manager, Brian Clough is still remembered with his name on one of the stands.

Here, at Trent Basin, the area is gradually being re-developed although nothing yet is happening with the large water area itself.

By the time we reached Holme, the first of the large river locks, it was properly wet, only to increase even more a short while later,

All of the locks are manned during the day time from April to October but most of the staff are now volunteers.

By the time we were in sight of Gunthorpe Road Bridge it was very murky indeed - as this photo shows.

The rain was now too much for the camera - see above - so there are no pictures for most of the day.

We continued downstream and at Hazelford Lock we took advantage of the empty 48 hour moorings above the lock in order to have a lunch break - and for Mike to change into some dry clothes!

The afternoon was no less wet and Mike was not a little relieved when the outskirts of Newark came into sight. On a straight section earlier we were suddenly overtaken by a high speed boat making waves. It came back again about half an hour later. We planned our  overnight stop here and  there was plenty of room just below Town Lock, directly opposite the castle walls. Another change of clothes for Mike with Christine making strenuous efforts to get the wet ones dry again!

23.4 Miles - 5 Locks