Today's Canal - Oxford
We had managed to pack into the car most things, apart from fridge and freezer items last night so we were ready to depart in good time, The drive up to Upper Heyford was straightforward with no real delays, but we called first at the boatyard in Lower Heyford. We had asked them to take a look at our stern gland which is leaking more than it should. However, for various reasons (including the pump to empty the dry dock) they were unable to help at this time.
We moved the boat down into Allens Lock so that we could unload from the car almost straight into the boat. We had reduced the amount to be brought from home by delaying a large supermarket shop until this afternoon. So we reversed the boat to the nearest available space before having lunch.
The nearest supermarket is in Bicester Village, about 15 minutes drive away. We stocked up quite well as we are not sure of shopping opportunities in the next few days.
The bad news is that the Environment agency are still showing the first reach below the end of the Oxford Canal as on Red Boards. It has been like that for a while and although there is optimism that it will be navigable again fairly soon, no-on is doing much confident prediction.
We had just about enough water to last us until tomorrow so, despite planning to fill up along at Lower Heyford, we put that off. We had already booked a table at The Bell for this evening - to avoid cooking! - so we moved to just before Mill Lane lift bridge, the nearest to the pub.
Although the fare at The Bell is what might be expected in a village pub, it was well done and there was a positive vibe in the place.
1.0 Mile - 1 Lock
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