Flecknoe

 Today's Canal : Oxford

The weather today was quite close to the forecast, except that we were a little concerned when, shortly before we were ready to set off, a short sharp shower passed over.

However, by the time we reached the first of the Hillmorton paired locks - about 5 minutes from our overnight stop - the promised blue sky and sunshine provided a wonderful backdrop.

A volunteer lock keeper arrived just as the lock was full - it was the first day of the season that they were officially on duty, one at the bottom and one at the top. In this case his arrival was very welcome as we were having some difficulty in opening the top gate. Eventually with, at his suggestion, a little nudge from  the boat, we managed to prise a gap. We didn't tell him that we had already (covertly) tried that with no success! (It is not normally a recommended practice but sometimes, with great care, is needed) In the end with two humans and one engine we succeeded

As we left the top lock the backdrop was yet again very encouraging, but in between a very cloudy patch has scuttled quickly overhead.

Passing the entrance to the small Hillmorton Marina (where some years ago we twice left our boat there whilst returning home) we could see that a number of floating homes have been added together and also floating workshop and, possible, a wet dock. This development was just starting last time we passed this way almost a year ago (BtD - Before the Drought)

Coming down the Barby straight the wind was bowing directly from behind us so we felt its full force. The stronger wind remained a feature of the rest of the day's cruising.

By the time we passed the entrance to Dunchurch Pools Marina and the nearby accommodation bridge, clouds filled the sky and some looked rather menacing. In fact their threat was 'all show' as we remained dry all day whilst on the move. Shortly after this we pulled in for a lunch stop. The wind, however, did offer a challenge until the mooring lines were secured.

We set off once again with only a short run to Braunston where, just before the junction, we completed a 'full service' . We wondered if the elsan disposal unit was available as there have been several recent  CaRT Notices about this facility - it and the water point have been a frequent source of attention as also those just a little ahead along the main line of the Grand Union south.

The sky was kind to the camera as we passed under the much photographed double bridge across the junction.

Christine was very taken by the display of daffodils on the central island between the two bridges and later suggested that Mike should take a close up on our return in a few days time. Just as well he had thought of that . . .

We now encountered quite a stream of boats coming towards us, several still getting to grips with the experience of passing an on-coming boat in a strong cross wind!

Just a little short of our 'target' for the day we pulled in to the last known good mooring for a while. The clouds behind us made us wary of going on too long = mooring in both wind and rain is not the best of experiences.

11.3 Miles - 3 Locks