OK, so there are two missing days - we will come back and fill in the gaps later but first comes today. This was the day that Storm Brian is forecast to cause havoc over much of Wales and the western half of England. High winds and heavy rain are due any moment as we set off. It was certainly very grey as we left Nantwich Aqueduct.
It was not too difficult as we cruised the first couple of miles to the two Hack Green locks.
Although we have been here many times before we had not spotted this large stone which looks as if it was the original anchor for the top gate - left here after it was replaced.
Close to the locks is the former secret bunker, established in the 1980's to provide a safe place for government officials in the event of a nuclear attack. By 1993 it was no longer considered necessary and was decommissioned but later opened as a visitor attraction once its existence was declassified! We were amused that this sign claims to be temporary - it is close to having a longer life than the bunker itself!
On again and late morning we arrived at the bottom of the Audlem flight of 15 locks. Most of the locks were in our favour although our luck finally ran out about four from the top. Part way we passed Duchess, half of the hotel pair we saw several times already this trip. They had come to the end of their season and were heading back to a winter base at Venetian Marine. Duke, the motor was brought down the flight first and then they bow-hauled the butty separately.
With the wind getting still stronger and with occasional showers we opted to pull in at the top of the flight for a lunch break. At the top lock house there is a stall selling cakes which ee have tasted before - after lunch Christine took a look and picked up several including some freshly baked scones.
As the heavy rain had not materialised we decided to make a little more progress - otherwise we will be in for some very long days towards the end of the week! Andrew walked the mile to the start of the five Adderley locks and set them all. We had seen almost no other traffic today and, indeed, no-one was moving in this flight apart from ourselves. Mike steered the boat between the flights and found it quite challenging in the strong cross wind.
By now we were not far from Market Drayton where there is a water point - we emptied the elsan at Audlem but did not stop to fill with water just in case the rain really did arrive. As we came passed the small set of moorings close to the centre we noticed that they have had quite a makeover with electric ;points and new pontoon decking.
After filling the water tank and chopping a few kindling sticks we reversed back to the main visitor moorings where a tv signal would be more likely than going any further.
12.5 Miles - 22 Locks
No comments:
Post a Comment