nb Kanbedun Again

A beautiful butterfly emerges

2011-11-12T10:05:00.001Z

At last I am able to update the blog - my mobile broadband is very poor here and the marina wifi is no good either, unless I stand outside. It appears there is too much steel in the way!

On Tuesday the paintshed doors were dramatically slid open and Kanbedun Again was slowly pulled out into the open air after 3 weeks - it was tear jerking. She then travelled the few hundred yards down the driveway to the marina. She looks absolutely beautiful in her new livery, all credit to the Willow Boatpainting/Vimart Signwriter team based at the marina. I cannot sing their praises more highly - I had felt quite daunted at the whole process but their kindness and expertise made it most enjoyable (and there were no extra shocks when I came to paying). I was also able to visit every day (there are always 2/3/4 people working every day of the week) to discuss and see the progress of what now seems like a new boat.

I am quite relieved that I can stay in the marina for the winter to allow the paint to harden before I set off in the Spring. Although it is not quite the same as a linear BW winter mooring, the other boaters are very friendly, as are the office team, so I am sure I will enjoy my time here.

From boat to caravan - wot no log fire?

2011-10-19T17:25:00.000+01:00

I spent a few days opposite and then outside Swanley Marina, packing ready to leave the boat. Yesterday I saw it swiftly pulled out of the water on a trailer and pulled along the road, jet washed and backed into the paintshed - for a full (much needed) repaint - I won't recognise it when it comes out. Am now spending 3 weeks in a caravan, just 5 min walk from the boat. It is a bit strange but yesterday there was plenty of wind rocking it so I felt I was still on the water! This morning I really did miss cleaning and stoking the fire, just turning up the heat felt like cheating. This afternoon went over to the marina to see where I will moor after painting and then went to see the boat - already the roof and half sides stripped - can't wait to see it naked! No more travels to report this year - but may post a picture when painting is completed!

Hovering north and south of Nantwich

2011-10-12T18:01:00.001+01:00

After spending a week with my daughter and family now with new baby, trying to be useful, I returned to the boat at Barbridge and moved both boat and car to Calveley. Waited almost an hour for one bus which whizzed past me and then another came along 5 minutes later. Needed to take Ebony to the vet in Ellesmere for a check up, following her diagnosis with Cushing's Syndrome (an overproduction of Cortisol) last December. She is constantly thirsty and I have to control her intake of water or she will drink the canal dry and have accidents in her sleep - poor thing. At least the expensive tablets seem to be working but she has to have 3-monthly tests to monitor the drugs. The trip to Ellesmere did give me a change to catch up with a few friends.

After spending a few days at Calveley I set off south, through Nantwich - must be the first time I have never stopped here - and went on to Audlem for a lovely hot and sunny weekend. Time to do a few jobs on board as well as plenty of walks. Strongs winds forecast for Wednesday so I returned to Nantwich on Tuesday and waited outside the basin, ready to go in for a booked service. Wednesday wasn't too bad after all and that evening I took up a place in the basin. I love it in this boatyard - have been coming here whenever I can for the past 12 years - they do look after you well and will sort all your problems. Ian did my service in the afternoon but suggested I stayed another night to test the immersion heater - seemed it only needed to be reset! That night in pouring rain I let Ebony out at 11.20 but the back deck was very wet, the rubber mat had blown off in the wind, and due to car tyre fenders it is a bit of a gap to jump - plus she is a wuss when leaping off the back. She slipped, fell backwards into the water with a loud splash and, being a black dog, dissappeared altogether. Luckily I had made her wear her harness all evening, as she makes frequent wee outings, so I was able to grab hold of that. But she was heavy and I was lying on the back deck struggling to get her out when the chap on the next boat came and helped me haul a very wet dog out - what a hero!

Next day I, with immersion working fine (I very rarely use it but it is a back-up) I went down to Marsh Lane and spent a few days there. Yesterday was able to meet up with old boating friends Graham and Lyn (formerly of Betjemin) and we had a lovely meal in the Residence Restaurant in town. That evening I moved the boat back to the embankment and this morning walked along the moored boats - only to find Graham and Kath on Stougham Hall, friends of Graham and Lyn also - they had passed my boat while we were out at lunch - what a shame they missed a gettogether.

Probably tomorrow, I will move the boat onto the Llangollen and then to Swanley Marina - where I have arranged to have the boat painted (totally!) next week - and I will be staying nearby in a caravan for 3 weeks - keeping my fingers crossed the mild weather continues!

New baby

2011-09-22T13:13:00.000+01:00

My new granddaughter, Caitlin Grace, arrived at 3.20am today, 9 days late, weighing in at a healthy 9lb. She was born very quickly in 4 hours. Luckily, after a false alarm on Monday, I was already at her home to look after her sister Louise - otherwise I might not have made the 1 hour drive up the M6 in time for my duties whilst Mum and Dad were at the hospital! Congratulations to my lovely daughter Lesley and super husband Phil.

Lymm to Barbridge

2011-09-17T09:59:00.001+01:00

Saturday 3 September, warm and sunny: After Chris and Mary left I walked Ebony to Dunham Massey Hall. What a lovely place. Tied her to fence by entrance hut outside gardens and explored. Loved the borrowed chickens scratching up weeds and fertilising an area for the new rose garden. Checked Eb, happily meeting greeting all who passed by, then quickly explored the huge and wonderful house. Decided to have lunch but the restaurant was all indoors and above old stables so not dog friendly - new one being built in 2013. Back to boat and set off for one of my favourite moorings - outside the lovely bridge cottage at Lymm.

Sunday, fairly hot and sunny. Stopped at Thorne Marine for diesel - "you decide" and continued on to just before Preston Brook, mooring opposite cows paddling in the canal - aah.

Monday, sunny, showers and windy. Set off, just missing the slot for the first tunnel, but reached Anderton for late lunch. Spent a couple of days here as it was really windy.

Thursday, overcast with slight breeze, windy in pm. Set off at 8.15, on through Billinge Flash (lovely moorings), stopping at Broken Cross country moorings to make a coffee - boat started OK this time!, then on up through Middlewich. Stopped to treat the chimney to a new hat at King's Lock, quick trip to bakers then continued on to moor just off the SUCS moorings with a view of Church Minshull. I avoid these rings as they have the Shroppie ledge - who planned those moorings???

Friday, sunny and warm and no wind. Another early start - daughter is expecting a baby, due on Wednesday, and I will be driving up to look after little Louise when mum goes into hospital - I am therefore getting anxious about mooring up and getting the car back. At both locks I was met by people waiting to go down and each offered to work the lock for me - great, as both are 11' and I don't enjoy climbing these tall ladders. I do of course get off the boat, chat, help finish off the lock and show my appreciation. Soon moored up at Barbridge where I got a bus to Crewe, train to Wigan, bus to Crooke and retrieved the car (also visited daughter not far away). Once I had done this I was feeling much more relaxed - and ready to dash to Lancashire again when necessary. Thanks, Lesley, for the lovely meal out on Sunday, sleepover and Cheeky Monkeys on Monday!

Have now got BW permission to stay longer here. We are 3 days past the due date! Fingers crossed my 8th grandchild will arrive safely VERY soon.

Big Cruise - Wigan to Sale via Huddersfield

2011-09-15T18:56:00.003+01:00

After a marvellous 2 weeks in Brittany with my son Graham, wife Becky and 3 grandchildren - Chris, Mary and I met at the boat in Crooke nr Wigan on Monday 15 August. After loading, we set off straight away. Told pound above first lock VERY low so we waited for boats to come down with water whilst having lunch then continued to Wigan with hotel boat Periwinkle. We were soon tackling the Wigan flight alone (no boats going up or down) and despite most locks against us we reached the top at 7.50, travelling on till 8.30 to eat our previously prepared meal. Now ahead of time but we have nearly 3 weeks of travelling an average of 7 hours a day to complete our cruise together. This is the third time I have done the L&L but never before anti-clockwise.

Tuesday saw us dressed for heavy rain, passing Botany Bay and then working Johnson's Hillock locks with nb Free Time then on through Blackburn. Sunny Wednesday we went on to Burnley, used canalside Morrisons in Nelson then up Barrowford locks with hire boat nb Boston Belle to moor at the top with lovely views.

Thursday, hot and sunny, we set off at 8am to go thru Foulridge Tunnel, with bacon butties after! Now the views are getting better and better as we reach the highest point of this canal. At Bank Newton locks we saw Diana and Bernard on nb Arthur Crossland who we met doing the Ribble Link last year. Continued on to Gargrave, re-explored village in time for the heavy storm at 6pm.

Friday, warm and sunny,   4 miles on we got a mooring in the centre of Skipton, toured the market and had a delicious meal in the Woolly Sheep. Met up with Jenny who Linda and Peter had seen many times when she and Kelvin ran a pair of hotel boats nbs Caldon and Ashby. We went on to moor for the night in the peace and quiet of the country near Low Bradley.

Sunny Saturday we went on to explore pretty, canal-side Kildwick, then lovely countryside on thru Silsden, Keighley to moor at Bingley. We had followed a boat through about 7 swing bridges - they shutting every bridge and dashing to their boat just as we arrived!

Dry and breezy Sunday we set off through Bingley 5 with nb Blue Jake and then on to Bingley 3 - all by 8.55! We all travelled on to Saltaire. We love this historic village. Looked in the Mill (big book shop floor!) then did the heritage trail round the village. Back to the boat for lunch then into Roberts Park, beautifully restored in 2010, Went up Shipley Glen in the tram but very dissappointed that the lovely, ancient funfair at the top was now abandoned and decayed. Continued on to moor in the country at Buck Hill Swing Bridge - where we had our only possible BBQ of the trip!

Monday 22 August, hot and sunny, we went on to Apperley Bridge (basin diesel closed) and went on through Rodley (no diesel now) but at 12am found the very heavy Moss Swing Bridge was stuck. Passers by helped, no luck. Rang Yorkshire Water (owners) 3x - useless. We needed to get to Newlay Locks by 3pm to go to Leeds. At 2.45 huge BW workboat came, pushed bridge open and we made it to locks by 3.09 - lockie unlocked them for us and helped us down! Well done BW!! Arr Leeds Stations moorings (empty!!) at 7.08. The area is now quite different, new buildings, CCTV and with hookup! We had been amazed at how few boats we had seen moving on L&L, less then 6 years ago.

Tuesday, warmish am, hot and sunny pm.   Mary left to get 6.15am train to Southampton to visit very poorly aunt. At 9am Chris and I had a quick walk to station area, then set off through River Lock on to the R Aire. Saw narrowboat 'submarine' outside the Industrial Museum on the outskirts of city. Stopped at Woodlesford, tiny store and town much nicer by navigation! Went on to Castleford lock mooring - and found BW office pulled down! Luckily on-duty lockie able to sell us a Calder and Hebble handspike. Then passed by huge tanker entering lock! We turned onto River Calder - a first for us. Passed delightful moorings at Fairies Hill, (now on Aire & Calder Nav) and continued on to Stanley Ferry Aqueducts (parallel) Here there is a large pub and lots of popular moorings (is this where all the boats have gone to?!) Now able to take on diesel too.

Wednesday, warm and sunny. Continued on to Fall Ing lock and the Calder and Hebble Navigation (spike not needed here!)   We skirted Wakefield, only really seeing industrial side from the river. At each lock we went armed with BW key, ant-vandal key, windlass and 3' handspike - not knowing which would be used, and every one was different! Horbury Bridge looked OK for overnight but we continued on to Dewsbury as Mary was rejoining the boat that evening. Went up Dewsbury Arm - but no visitor moorings, so turned with difficulty and moored below locks. Mary arrived at 6pm walking from bus station.

Thursday cool and overcast, pm hot and sunny. On through much industrial areas but found lovely moorings and boatyard above Shepley Bridge. Stopped for lunch, hanging off lock moorings above Cooper Bridge lock. Then 1/4 mile on found visitor moorings before C B flood gates! We turned left at junction and soon found ourselves entering the first lock of the Huddersfield Broad Canal - which seemed strangely small after the river locks. Now we can dispense with the heavy handspike! Continued on thru 9 locks to Turnbridge Loco Lift Bridge - very quaint. Whilst Chris operated the bridge, 3 policemen came to move on some drinkers. They then chatted to us, one saying he had always wanted to go on a narrowboat. I offered him a lift and he travelled through the bridge with us! He said he would keep an eye on the boats overnight - some problems with drinkers near Sainsbury's. We went on to moor opp Sainsbury's car park - again many boats moored here - does anyone actually cruise up here? - we see very few on the move!

Friday, overcast then dry then dull! Did a big shop before going under the new road bridge - now on Huddersfield Narrow Canal. Past University buildings, then through and under huge building works - rather grim. On and up 15 locks through Huddersfield, beside lots mills, under railways (towell on prop!), mostly uninteresting. No moorings so very late lunch taken quickly on lock mooring (almost raining!) Out into the countriside, the pound above lock 16 (near a beautiful converted mill) was very shallow but we decided to risk it. Mary rang from lock above - 4 hours ago a boat there had reported the problem and BW advised them to stay put, until the level rose overnight. Too late for us, soon Chris with 60' to go went aground. 3 half lockfuls later and Chris was in - the last load of water went down to previous lock and bounced back to push the boat slowly in! 4 locks later we arrived in Slaithwaite at 7.45 and almost dark, mooring above 21. Fish and chips for our efforts!

Saturday 27 August BH - cool most of day. After a wander around this interesting town (good for supplies) we set off at 10.30. Passed a popular bakery factory/shop at lock 24 and on to the only guillotine lock on a narrow canal - and was it heavy too! Soon after this we reached lovely countryside with splendid views - plenty of time at each lock to admire! Stopped briefly for lunch when got plastic bag on prop, then moved on to moor by the winding hole above lock 31, turning to enjoy the view! Eggs and veg for sale at lovely cottage.   We had a walk up the last 11 locks to see the moorings near the Standedge Visitor Centre. Walked back through Marsden (as seen in TV soaps) and then to the boat.

Sunday 28 August BH - dull, showers, some heavy. Turned the boat again and set off thru the 11 locks to station. Trip boat told us to moor there, in a dull muddy cutting with no other boats, because he had to turn at cafe (despite there being a winding hole). We pleaded ignorance to this rule and he eventually said we may be allowed to moor opp the cafe, by the weir. This we did - and thought that this gave the visitors a chance to actually see a modern narrowboat, other than the trip boats. Never were we in anyone's way - and found that we were the only boat going through the tunnel in the morning! After lunch we were able to make our own visit to the Visitor Centre - lots of good info but constant, loudly irritating, recorded voices which made it difficult to concentrate on what you were reading. Went for tea in cafe - but it was raining and there were only 2 tables inside, plus a queue for them. Shame they couldn't use the spare tunnel trip boat as seating. We returned to the boat for tea. In the evening Mary and I walked up part of Boat Lane where the horses were taken over the tunnel.

Monday 29 August. Dry am, showers/rain pm - eve
Woke at 6.30 and cleared the roof - including the plants, bikes and roofbox which was emptied and upended inside. BW men arr at 7am and measured the boat's width and height. The tallest, 6'5", was going to be our guide! At 8.50 Chris and Mary sat in the bow, with Ebony tied up and I donned reflective jacket, lifejacket and hard hat. Off we went into the rocky 3.2 mile tunnel. Not too bad at first but BW chappie pointed out, with his torch, the roof height rocks to avoid and told me when to slow down at wide parts before entering narrow more rocky sections, or S-bend. Got a shock when a torch was shone on us as we passed - there was a man standing beside the boat in one of the 8 escape tunnels to the old rainway tunnel where his van was parked. Yes I did hit the sides a few times, scratches to prove it. Also, due to projecting decorative trim on rear gunnel throwing me off course, I managed to tear the front cratch. Luckily we have the boat booked for a repaint and new cratches in October. After this very exciting tunnel journey we had coffee and biscs with the 3 BW men while they waited 3/4 hour to take 2 boats back through the tunnel.

We set off, downhill now, through the Saddleworth locks. After a few, Mary cycled off to get buses and trains to Southampton to see her now extremely poorly aunt. Sadly she died an hour before she got there and Mary spent a few days making necessary arrangements. Chris and I continued down this very scenic flight, stopping for the night at Dobcross. Linda walked a mile to Tesco's to retrieve Mary's bike!

Tuesday 30 August, rain and showers. We stopped at Uppermill (plenty moorings but dull under trees) to explore town and visit very interesting museum - local and weaving info. After lunch we set off through more lovely views and small towns, then thru Mossley, mooring after Scout Tunnel.

Wednesday 31 August - cool, overcast, better pm/eve. Continued down thru locks, passing under a straddled pylon and moored at 11am in Stalybridge. We used the time for a few boat jobs, shopping, then Mary's train arrived at 1426 and we set off at 1450 to work another 5 locks to Portland Basin/Dukinfield Junction where we moored for the night. Time for an exhausted Mary to relax. Indeed we are all feeling rather tired with such a busy trip.

Thursday 1 September - warm and sunny, trees turning yellow - autumn?   After 2 1/2 miles we arr at Fairfield 2 locks. At Clayton locks we found a queue. Mary cycled down and found a singlehander on nb RM. She phoned to say she would help him and we soon speeded up. One crew on hire boat in front came to help us. We stopped at Asda for lunch etc then did 7 more locks to moor in lovely Thomas Telford Basin at Piccadilly Village. Later walked to China Town to get a take-away!

Friday 2 September - warm, then hot and sunny pm. Worked locks to Castlefield basin, had lunch, then Chris went by train to get car from Crooke nr Wigan whilst Mary and Linda took the boat (now lock-free too!) to Waters Meeting Junction, down through Sale (where we found Chris cycling to meet us) and on to moor right opposite Dunham Massey Hall.

This now marks the end of our big cruise. 19 days, 167 miles, 222 locks, 40 opening bridges and 8 tunnels. Thoroughly enjoyable but very tiring - will take it more easy next year!

Apologies anyone who has been waiting for this very late blog! No time whilst travelling!

Boat fixed and a holiday in France!

2011-07-16T15:28:00.006+01:00

On arrival at Orchard Marina, Gary the boatbuilder arranged for Sandra the electrician to remove alternator and it was taken to Terry the Alternator Expert. I really didn't think it would be repairable so I could be there some time. Next day I took three buses and a train to get to Leyland to retrieve my car from daughter's house. Friday I set off from the boat for Devon, enabling me to spend a weekend with my eldest son, Steve, and family in their much renovated new house - almost completed and what a difference to January when I helped them strip layers of wallpaper and paint prior to the builders moving in. This time was more relaxing although I did manage to get a gardening fix - rooftop boxes are not as fulfilling!

Monday 11 July saw me driving back to Rudheath - to find the alternator was refitted. Terry had managed to replace many parts! The next day I paid the bill - over £200 - another hole in the water filled!

I returned to Billinge Flash for a night and wind down. Next day on to Middlewich, quick shop, then up the locks and onto the Middlewich Branch. I moored that night at a lovely spot I call Weaver View which also overlooks Winsford Top Flash. Next night above Cholmondeston lock and on to Barbridge. Two buses to Northwich where I had a look at the river - just in case Trevor and Gail had arrived there on Bear Squeeze. There were in fact a couple of moorings free tho! Quick lunch and tour of the shops before another bus to Gadbrook Park, 15 min walk to the marina to retrieve car and drove to Nantwich before another bus to the boat.

Will now hang around Nantwich area, boat service tomorrow, before Kathy and Les formerly of nb All Seasons come to take the boat to Wigan area while I have a holiday in France with youngest son Graham and family - yippee! It rained a bit on St Swithin's Day, as last year, so I just hope the wet summer doesn't apply in France or continue into August when Chris, Mary and I take the boat from Wigan to Leeds and down the Huddersfield Narrow - we need some more sun, please!

Down Anderton Lift and onto the Weaver

2011-07-06T21:20:00.009+01:00

On Sunday 26 June Chris, Mary and I met at the Stanley Arms, where we were joined by Chris' sister Caroline and husband Dave for lunch - on a very hot day! 10am next morning C, M and I went down in the lift - great, but very strange as the caisson jumps its way down the first half!

First we went to Northwich to do a quick food shop, returned to Anderton for lunch then cruised past the lovely Barnton Cut moorings (perfect height, some shade and not too sloping grass) - but too early to stop. Through Saltersford lock (the lock keepers are all very friendly and helpful), under Acton Swing Bridge (so big we can get under these swing bridges!), on through Dutton Lock and 2+ miles on we found Devil's Garden (thanks for the suggestion Iain and Myra). Here is a large field and easy moorings (mind the big holes tho) - great for BBQ's.

Tuesday we continued on, past Frodsham Cut, past Sutton Weir where the river leaves us on the navigation, under Sutton Swing Bridge, then M56 (how many times have I driven over this bridge!) Soon we came to 2 miles of chemical works - at night from the M56 this looks like a wonderful illuminated space station - quite different by day! We passed Marsh Lock, glimpsing the Manchester Ship Canal (MSC) through a gap in wall, and went on to turn at the last chance just before the abandoned Weston and Runcorn Canal entrance. Returned to Marsh Lock, moored up and found ourselves at the junction of the MSC and the now very large River Weaver. We stopped at Sutton Bridge and walked into Frodsham (later finding that there was a bus stop on the other side of the bridge). What a lovely town, wonderful old buildings lining the High Street. Got the bus back!

After quick lunch we continued on to moor below Dutton locks (there are often 1 or 2 moorings below locks, which you can use after hours). In the morning we were held up by a faulty lock gate - but learnt a lot about the changes to the river from a really enthusiastic lockie. Soon on our way and we returned to Northwich to find no free moorings but continued on to moor above Hunts Lock. From here we had a short walk to Weaver Hall, the old workhouse and now museum for the area, salt production etc - all extremely interesting. We continued on to moor on the pontoon below Vale Royal locks for the night - a lovely area.

Next day was my birthday and Mary cooked breakfast - eggs of course! As we went through Vale Royal lock we told the lockie that we were going to the Red Lion moorings and eating out that night. He said little about the pub but offered to collect us to take us to Northwich for a meal if we preferred! The stretch from the locks to almost Winsford is most attractive. The 1 1/2 moorings at the Red Lion were pretty high and Ebony was not happy about being hoisted up! We walked uphill to Winsford - well all we can say is that it is nowhere as attractive as you would think. A quick shop at Asda for birthday buns, return to boat for coffee and cake in sun. Made the decision to a) attempt to get to the flash and b) return to Vale Royal lock.

Passed the sign warning us we were now leaving the limit of BW's jurisdiction. Slowly wove our way past friendly fishermen and found ourselves on the enormous flash - how fantastic and beautiful. Turned very carefully beside the few moored boats by the caravan site (assume they are long term moorings) hovered a while longer and then returned to moor on the pontoon above Vale Royal lock. There are good moorings before this but the towpath is being renovated and dumper trucks charge up and down during the day. Mary and I walked into Davenham - found the excellent pub recommended to us by another lockie but decided we didn't want to do the 3m round trip again. Mary insisted on later cycling in to get a Chinese for my birthday tea!

Friday we went thru lock at 8.30, had breakfast on pontoon below, then set off for Northwich. Moored on the ex-trip boat mooring and went to look at some historic sights incl BW offices. After lunch we walked to find the house Chris' mother had lived in nearly 70 years ago. Very enthusiastic owners researching the house history invited us for tea and a tour of the house! 2 hours later they even drove Chris to Anderton to get his car out of marina secure car park! After a quick shop we cruised to Anderton. That evening we drove to Davenham to find The Bull pub and very popular restaurant - well worth the wait!

Saturday C&M left and I spent the day relaxing - v hot day. Now a lot of boats arriving on the river. Sunday I set off to go through Saltersford Lock at 10 and on to Acton Bridge moorings. It was an even hotter day and Ebony now happy to sit under umbrella. Later we walked to the canal, then back to an excellent farm shop between canal and river, sadly too late for tea.

Monday walked back to farm for milk, then set off for Anderton. Will go up lift a day earlier than planned - no shade at moorings and am now to go to son's in Devon to see his new house.

Monday night at Billinge Flash - longer day than usual. Tuesday am - joined ConsiderateBoater.com at 7am after seeing sticker in neighbour's boat. Set off early and stopped at offside Broken Cross BC moorings for comfort break and quick explore - then engine wouldn't start - horrible noise too.

Rang RCR and pushed boat to other side and bow hauled to moorings nearer bridge. Was passed by 4 boats, noone said a word. One went so fast that I complained. He replied that he doesn't slow down as noone else does - I pointed out that I wasn't moored - "I AM PULLING THE BOAT BECAUSE I HAVE BROKEN DOWN!" - nb 'Alma P' is not a considerate boater!

Very nice man from RCR walked a mile to find me, eventually disconnected my alternator(!) and after winding near his van, I returned to Orchard Marina to await repair. What a week!

Happy Times with Family

2011-06-22T17:59:00.004+01:00

On arriving at Stone did a good stock up of food, few items from Stone Boatbuilding chandlery and collected the car from Great Haywood farm shop (buses via Stafford, again). Daughter Lesley (baby due Sep), husband Phil and granddau Louise (2) arrived from Lancashire in time for an early lunch and watched a heavy rain shower (forgetting we had put the pushchair on roof - oops). Soon setting off for the locks, with Louise having a nap indoors. Weather stayed overcast but dry and we soon worked the 3 Stone locks, followed by the 4 Meaford. Moored Barlaston for the night.

Sunday 11 June: Ebony woke for wee at 6am - lovely sunshine! By 8.30 it was raining and still at 9.50 when we set off. After Trentham lock (won't visit Estate!) it was pouring: Phil steered, Lesley amused Louise and I got the evening meal ready. Moored for lunch nr Stoke City football stadium then set off again, still pouring and now I was steering while Lou was readied for her nap. Lesley worked the 5 locks to Etruria in absolutely pouring rain and we were all dripping when, with Phil, we moored outside Etruria museum.

Monday: We deserved bacon and egg breakfast after yesterday and then set off to walk into town for. Back to boat for late coffee and early lunch before Lou's nap. Then went to winding hole - where soon found we had no forward propulsion, only backwards and the wind was blowing us back round all the time. 'You have lost your prop' said some clever clogs boater. With the help of poles, Phil and I took the boat to where we started. On going down weedhatch I removed vast quantities of plastic and rope from prop. Quick test - now have forward motion. 50 minutes after setting off , we left Etruria and went Westport Lake. Lou awake, had cuppa then 3 set off to find swings while I prepared tea for oven. Found them at a lovely children's play area, hidden by trees, at the S end of lake.

Tuesday: 9.45 set off expecting a wait at the tunnel (a number of boats had passed us so assumed we had missed the slot) - well we can fill water tank. We were waved on through the tunnel - quick removal of bike, plant pots etc and we were soon on our way - took only 40 mins this time. Went on thru first lock and stopped to sit in lovely hot sun for coffee. After lunch Linda and Phil took the train back to Stone for cars, leaving 1 at Rode Heath and mine dumped in a layby at Kidsgrove. Set off at 4 to go thru 2 locks, took on water (now urgent) and moored below next lock. Phil helped a chap (who had just caught his prop on cill, but corrected problem) down thru next lock

Wednesday: Phil steered, Lesley set off to get lock ready and I followed with Louise pushing her dolls pushchair - slow progress but we did manage to get ahead of the boat and walk down 2 locks, then the next 4 as well. Moored in time for lunch at Rode Heath. After lunch we lazed while Lou napped, some also dozed! Hoped for BBQ but rain threatening from 4pm so went to Broughton Arms for early tea - Louise eating almost all of a child's portion of chicken and veg!

Thursday: Started overcast but improving. Drove to Kidsgrove, collected my car and all drove back to Trentham Estate. Visited Monkey Forest - where we saw lots of monkeys sitting, sunbathing!, grooming, up trees and in grassy areas, while waiting for the keepers to finish their talks and give them snacks - very entertaining. Had lunch in the Banana Cafe, Lou had play on climbing frames and then, after collecting Eb from car, walked down the mile-long lake of the Estate in lovely sunshine. Walked past Garden Centre, round the Italian Gardens then Phil and Lou had a play in another children's area while Lesley and I puzzled the new beech Sound Maze. It really is a lovely place to visit and a chance for little ones to escape from boating.

Friday: Moved 1 car to tonight's stop. Had just under 2 miles and 4 locks to Hassall Green (before tomorrow's longer day). After lunch Lesley and Louise had naps while Phil and I went back for his car. Took one to Wheelock and re-parked mine in the very recently closed Romping Donkey and chatted to an agent selling the pub. After 4 useless tenants, it is now to be sold for £250k with another 250k needing to be spent on it. Just hope it sells soon, it is looking very sad now. Nappers still asleep but on waking went for ice-creams at Lock 57 and watched boats in lock - for a change!

Saturday: Rain overnight but dry at 8am. Saw couple on next door boat, db Arkolme - last seen when we travelled backwards together down top lock of Ribble Link. Their friends fitted out and painted my boat (when it was called Honeymoon) so it was good to see them and pass on the news that it is to be repainted this year (sides now looking very tired, althought I do touch up any scratches and scrapes when necessary). Set off early today at 9.15 to do the last 10 locks to Wheelock - with Louise again walking many locks in the lovely sunny day. Pm went back for Phil's car then went to Wheelock Hall - Plants, Farm Shop (incl lots of fresh veg, bread and cakes, frozen goods), Gifts, Cafe, Children's Farm and fantastic play area - a fantastic place to visit and only 20min walk up hill, s of canal - suggested they advertise at wharf. In the evening went for a good early meal at the wharfside Italian restaurant.

Sunday: Lots of packing done, then we drove to Sandbach for a wander round town and Father's Day lunch in the Black Bear pub on Market Square. Sad goodbyes after a lovely week. My elderly neighbours had engine problems so I waited until RCR later sorted them out - multiple air locks in fuel line. Gave Eb a walk - thought 'this weather is good and sunny and I don't want to be stuck under tree for evening, plus no TV'! Took on water (etc!) and set off at 5.15 - don't usually cruise after 5.

Half hour later got to a nice mooring, used before, in open countryside. Engine out of gear, threw off back rope across towpath, jumped off with centre rope, got front rope off, then, oh no, engine cut out - rear rope wrapped round prop! Prop must have been still turning. Now this could be serious, may have to cut rope off. Tied centre and front rope, donned very old clothes and went down weedhatch. Rope stuck fast. Persisted then found, after a good tug to release, I could unwrap the rope - slowly, round and round - took half hour. Nearly free and it came up with a jerk - hit my head under tiller (should have removed) and jerked forward, hitting my eyebrow on rear seat (yes, really did happen!) - now have large swelling! Rope soon free. Am now soaked. Tied boat, had shower and then quick tea. It is a lovely sunny evening! (Found I had black eye in morning!)

Monday 20 June: Hot and sunny but lots rain due pm so I set off at 7.50 (early for me!) to cruise to Middlewich. Took on diesel at Kings Lock then worked the first lock, meeting another boat on corner - one of the 6 all-male crew then helped me down the next 2 locks - how nice! Quick shop at Tesco, lunch and then thru Big Lock with another boat before mooring after Br 176, still time to get washing dry in the lovely sunshine. It didn't rain!

Tuesday - rain forecast for pm so set off with more washing on and went just 2 miles to moor at the first big lovely 'lagoon'. Now will have a few days to chill, watch the wildlife on lake and catch up with jobs, in and out - heavy rain showers forecast for Wed and Thur. In pm caught sight of a couple of cows on towpath coming towards boat - only it turned out to be half a herd! Helped neighbour herd them back thru gap and rang BW, then farmer turned up. Quite a mess, muddy holes and otherwise, on towpath. On Monday am due to go down Anderton Lift - whoopee, at last!

Star Lock at Stone

2011-06-10T17:42:00.001+01:00

Arrived Tixall Wide on a sunny Tuesday afternoon, 31 May, to find a good spot at this wonderful but popular mooring. Wednesday had a cloudy start but soon became hot and sunny, lasting until the evening. Local TV said the Midlands had the driest and warmest spring for 101 years. Thursday was hot and sunny all day and evening so got plenty of outside jobs done.

On Friday, still hot and sunny, walked to Milford to retrieve car, drove to Shugborough Estate - the first time ever to visit by car, usually walk over Essex Bridge from the canal. Looked at the restored walled garden - it is fascinating to see the progress over the years and I look forward to seeing the restored greenhouses in future. Walked across the field to the mansion, tied Ebony under, and in the shade of a, large bush and went into the house. I specifially wanted to see the Earl's new photographic exhibition and the extra rooms now opened, following his death a couple of years ago. Had a very nice quiche salad in the courtyard - sun umbrellas much needed today. Walked back to the car, drove to the Farm shop by the canal and then walked slowly back to the Wide. Ebony seeming to wilt now - she often does when we get a lot of sun.

Saturday was still hot so made sure Ebony stayed in the shade but she was eating too much grass and refused her tea, she was worse on Sunday. Monday afternoon I took on water at the junction and then set off to moor at Ingestre, where Ebony slept for 2 hours in the shade. Will go to Weston in the morning and find the vet if she is no better. The threat worked for the next day she was much better and beginning to eat! Moved on to Weston anyway - a first visit and what a surprise! Walked up road to the shop and then turned down Old Road and found an enormous green (not seen such a big one since I was on the Great Ouse, what village was that??) and on the corner was a very good looking pub - The Woolpack.

Rain forecast for late afternoon so set off after early lunch, only to be hit by a few heavy showers, plus a nasty hailstorm - when I sheltered under a bridge, with 2 cyclists, near the lovely village of Burston (well worth a walk up footpath). Continued on (weather improved and now sunny) and moored above Aston Lock. In evening walked into the settlement around Aston Hall (didn't use footpath beside so not seen) - but I did see 2 churches, old school house and a number of other rather large houses all very close together. Will explore more another time!

Thursday set off 8.20 (early for me!) to get to Stone, where just above Star Lock I found 2 small boats setting off and I was very lucky to have a prime mooring. Today I had a surprise visit from Graham and Kath (nb Stougham Hall) who had walked down from their mooring further up the locks. (Hope they don't get too wet at their ritual Friday BBQ!) On Saturday daughter and family arrive for a week when we can go to Stoke and beyond.

Time for a Tixall Fix!

2011-06-02T08:51:00.003+01:00

Sunday 8 May: After Chris and Mary joined me, we had 2 days in the Llangollen mooring basin. Rain due Mon pm so decided to walk to Horseshoe Falls in am and get train back. As soon as we left the canal to walk up to Valle Crucis Abbey the rain started and we got soaked, especially Mary when the bridge over the river was most dog unfriendly (Ebony had already been lifted over one stile) and Mary decided to walk through the shallow river with her – wet feet. Rain eased for a while at the Abbey but returned soon after to last until after a coffee at the farm/caravan site cafe. We then walked to Llantysilio church in sunshine! After the Falls we crossed the river to wait for the train up to Carrog, to return to Llangollen after a cup of tea and cake.

On Tuesday we were joined by Margaret and Alan for the lovely aqueducts and tunnels journey back to Poacher's Pocket where we enjoyed a good evening meal.

Wednesday we continued to Frankton Junction for lunch and then to Tetchill and whilst car shuffling we visited Llanymynech Heritage Centre. Chris and Mary left for home next morning and I had 2 days of saying goodbye to my former neighbours and lovely friends in the village.

Saturday I went to moor at Colemere for lunch, a walk round mere, then set off. Winds really got up then and had a real struggle to moor just before Bettisfield where there is a lovely view.

Sunday moored in Prees Arm after topping up diesel. Had walk up unnavigable arm, until the footpath unusable (thank you Wem Parish Walk!)

Monday to Wednesday in Whitchurch Arm (where I had my first winter mooring in 2005/6) – for shopping and be collected (thanks again Dave) to return to Tetchill and get my car.

Thursday: to Wrenbury for lunch and on to Ravensmoor for night – lovely walk up track towards village. No sign of the dog-walking boating ladies who usually chat to me when moored here.

Friday 19 May set off in slight wind to go to Swanley Marina to meet boat painters (repaint booked for Autumn this year). Soon wind built up to very strong gusts (don't usually travel in winds like this) and had great trouble mooring outside marina – at one point standing (leaning) holding centre rope with boat parallel, 3 feet out and no ring/bollard for centre rope! Eventually got boat in (lots of noisy bowthrusting involved). Made my number with marina office – why didn't you hoot for help - “because the horn switch was 30' away from me!” Walked up to paint shed for chat and paid deposit.

Continued on to moor at Nantwich embankment – knowing that the wind would blow me onto mooring! Hurleston not too bad and lots of crab-like cruising to Nantwich! Saturday went back by bus to Whitchurch to get car (travelling with friendly couple from nb Maple doing same).

Stayed an extra day due to the still strong winds. Better on Tuesday so set off doing Hack Green and then Audlem locks. Here I struck lucky as 2 ladies on the boat behind me were free due to an energetic crew member trying to do all the work so they VERY kindly offered to help me up locks! Thanks to them I made good progress and, after lunch below Adderley locks ,I set off again for Market Drayton.

I had decided to keep the car with me to help with visits from son soon, and daughter in June (when she will then take it home!). So Wednesday morning I got the 8.30 bus to Shrewsbury, then train to Nantwich for car. Drove to Market D, large shop, drove to boat, loaded food, had lunch then drove to Penkridge where I was allowed to leave the car at the Heling Dene council offices (as they have no wedding at weekend!) Got bus to Stafford Station – here, according to Traveline web site, I was supposed to get bus in 25 mins (1 per day) to Market Drayton. Couldn't find correct bus stop, station had no info so rang Mary who checked Transport Direct. There was a middle bus to get me to Gaol Square – help! First Asian taxi driver – allergic to dogs, 4^th taxi – still no dogs. Directed to non-Asian taxi who would take me. Can't drop me in Gaol Square so had to run through shopping precinct and directed down side street. First bus stop not the one – then saw the bus coming – I ran towards it and stopped it in road – much to driver's amusement but who understood my predicament! Phew!!!! Relaxed on journey to MD!

Thursday went on to Norbury Junction for the night – helped up Tyrley locks in the rain by a dog walking, occasional boater who was keen to get a boating-fix – aren't people lovely!

Friday 27 May went to Wheaton Aston, filled up diesel and then moored near Sanny Station (and track) so convenient for son Graham and two of his young children (Edward 6 and Tom almost 4). They arrived about 8.30pm after an horrendous Bank Holiday journey from Kent – boys soon tucked up in bed!

Saturday started cool but dry and Ed and Tom happy to help with lock. Soon after heavy rain started and Graham offered to waterproof up and steer while I played with boys inside. We stopped for lunch at Pendeford Bridge just as the rain stopped. After lunch we set off for Autherley junction (“call this a lock?”) and then up through my dreaded narrow to moor in sun just past Cross Green. After tea etc had a lovely evening playing Monopoly with Edward (Tom exhausted and in bed!)

Sunday (I am amazed how few boats are about for a bank holiday weekend) we went to moor at Gailey and walked up A5 to roundabout and a road house pub. Food OK (roast excellent) but in the garden at rear was a HUGE play area for the boys – they loved it! Continued on through locks to moor opposite Otherton Marina.

Monday 30 May set off in pouring rain to moor above Penkridge Lock (told pound below was short of water). Drove back to collect car, had lunch and at 1pm my lovely crew (thank you boys, I had a fantastic time with you) set off home – this time a 4 hour easy journey. At 3.30 rain stopped and I walked dog back up lock – only to be told by boaters that Longford Lock was leaking badly and BW would close it next day. I belted back to boat and set off after them. They very kindly helped me through Penk. Lock so as to keep together. The next pound was extremely low and we were pleased that 2 boats passed us – who would let more water down! As my boat went into lock and gates closed, the boat immediately started lowering – gosh did it leak! I thanked the lovely, helpful boaters and set off, deciding to continue to Acton Trussell where I could get a bus back to Penkridge the next day.

This I did, taking the car on to Milford (on the Green) and returning by 2 buses, via a shopping spree (yippee) in Stafford. Made quick sandwich and set off for Tixall – my most favourite mooring (a “Tixall Fix”) where I can chill out (and do jobs) for a few days before I go on to collect my next crew.

I don't usually travel every day but this year was planned round visitors (and weather) and in future I will ditch the car earlier too (but it will be useful, I keep telling myself)!

Cruising 2011

2011-05-07T15:13:00.004+01:00

Had a great winter in Ellesmere Arm, near to my old home village of Tetchill, and I was able to meet up with many of my lovely ex neighbours/villagers and also boating friends. It was great to be back and, despite the very cold weather, had a lovely winter. Of course I took quite a few trips away to visit family and friends.

Eventually left Ellesmere after attending 3 birthday parties (Charlie and Louise were both 2 and Mary's special birthday) on 3 consecutive weekends in Kent, Suffolk and Lancashire during March/April. Then had 10 days on the Montgomery where I re-met Graham and Kath on Stougham Hall. We had a great few days at Maesbury wining, dining and exploring lots of the unrestored Monty by car and foot. Can't wait to see Crickheath in water - it will be lovely. Thank you, G & K for the help up the locks!

Left the boat at Tetchill, where it was looked after by Trevor at Canal Cottage and many dog walking friends - thank you all. I then had 12 days away in Kent to celebrate Easter and attend a Royal Wedding community party in a field - it was a great time.

Now to start the cruise proper! Have now moved on to near Llangollen where I will soon be joined by Chris and Mary for a few days. Just had a morning of rain - I know we need it but as I had walked into town I got rather wet there and on the return journey - it wasn't supposed to rain till the afternoon so didn't stay as long as planned - can't escape into a cafe when you have a dog with you!

Nantwich to Ellesmere and time to put down anchor!

2010-11-01T20:53:00.003Z

On 12 October, having collected the car from Lancashire, I drove to Nantwich Basin to find Chris and Mary on board. After a visit to the chandlery (no LED lights on stock!) we set off for the Llangollen Canal at 4pm. Very few boats about and we had the Hurleston flight to ourselves. By 5.30 we were feeling rather cold and stopped in the countryside on SUCS visitor moorings.

Next day we worked Swanley locks and then called at the marina. When I passed nearly 5 years ago it was a muddy hole with pontoons on legs! Chatted regarding a possible repaint and blacking for November 2011 and then set off to moor in Wrenbury for a late lunch. After a walk round the village and exploring the church (open!) we decided to stay for the night as it was getting rather cold. Next day we continued on to Grindley Brook and went up the locks without a wait. Rather heavy handed volunteer lockkeeper who obviously didn't believe in opening paddles slowly for boats going 'uphill'! Moored in the Whitchurch Arm for lunch and then Chris and I walked into town to get a bus back to Nantwich and collected the cars. Left one at Ellesmere and returned to boat. Strange to think I had my first winter mooring in the arm in 2005. Stranger still to think my then neighbour has now taken her boat to the Isle of Wight!

Friday am we continued on to have lunch at Whixall Moss and then to Ellesmere. Had a good meal in the Black Lion. Must also try the new restaurant in the Old Town Hall!

Found that a few boats had already taken up winter moorings in the arm 2 weeks early - seem to be making a protest about BW delaying WM's until November! I stayed at the junction for the weekend and on Monday continued on to Tetchill - where I had a house between 1999 and 2009 - although it had been let from 2005 whilst I lived aboard. Chatted to a few neighbours and villagers as I walked thru the lovely village. Tuesday went on to Maestermyn to top up diesel - only to find they had stopped selling fuel 4 years ago. Turned in pretty strong wind, having to put the stern into the hole and let the wind do the work. Returned to Frankton Junction (just before the heavy rain came) where I was joined by friends on Maggie May, also residents of Tetchill! The next afternoon I returned to Tetchill where I stayed until Monday. Met so many ex-neighbours and dogwalkers that I knew - it was lovely to be back and pleased that I had decided to winter in the area. Also found that the house by the canal and next to the farm is about to come up for auction. It was owned by Alf, a lovely old chap who used to work for BW. He had often worked the ice boat across Chirk Aqueduct and had put lots of the iron piling along the length of the canal - he was full of canal stories and local history.

On Monday 25 October I returned to Ellesmere - it was buzzing with boats (half term) and it took a while to get a mooring not under trees! On Wednesday I went into the arm and took up my winter mooring place together with 3 boats who regularly winter there. I am really looking forward to the winter here as I know so many people in the locality, also it is such a wonderful area and Ellesmere a really great small town.

Spend, spend, spend

2010-10-11T20:42:00.004+01:00

Friday I worked the 10 locks down from the lovely moorings at Cox Bank to Audlem, mooring by the Shroppie Fly. On Saturday my Aunt Erica from Sussex arrived with her cousins from Shropshire. A lunch on board was followed by a sunny cruise to Nantwich. As we crossed the aqueduct they jumped ship to catch a bus back to Audlem and I moored the other end of the embankment.

Am now in Nantwich Basin. Today had boat service and winter checks, whilst car in Lancashire is having its MOT and service. Walked into town to do some food shopping at Morrisons. Walked to bus station for bus back - and was crept up on by fellow boaters Graham and Lyn who offered me a car lift back to the basin. Enjoyed a cuppa with them before they left - sorry you didn't get to your boat, as you had originally planned but see you later in Ellesmere. It is lovely to walk of an evening from the basin to see who has arrived on the embankment - it is rare not to see someone you know, especially after 11 years of boating!

Tomorrow I bus and train to collect my car while Chris and Mary drive from Suffolk. All being well we will meet in the basin during the afternoon! After that a few days travelling up the Llangollen.

Hurray I successfully bought a winter mooring

2010-10-04T17:18:00.003+01:00

After an early look this morning and then finding eventually at 10am that the website wouldn't be updated untill 3.30 (then 4pm, then 4.30), I travelled to Goldstone Wharf on a gloriously sunny day (rain all day yesterday?, was I dreaming?). I finally bought a winter mooring on the Llangollen Canal for this winter. Ex neighbours and boating friends HERE I COME!!!

Norbury Junction - and waiting for Winter Mooring website

2010-10-03T11:14:00.009+01:00

I am late again - this time almost a month has gone by since last post! On a very windy Monday 6 Sept I walked into Macclesfield for a first time look, then got a bus back - still waiting for bus pass to arrive with future crew! Tuesday went to Higher Poynton where I met up with Nick and Liz on Henry who are also waiting for the winter mooring website to materialise - we all have our doubts about how it is going to work! Went on thru Marple and stopped on outskirts, which I call the Marple View - and watched big rain cloud arrive and pass on without a drop landing on me! Continued on through the lovely and easy single-hander lift/swing bridges - Furness Vale was wet so they had the rain! Arrived Bugsworth Basin just before 5 and found only a handful of boats moored. Stayed for few days, one of which was wet (no surprise), but was able to do some local exploring. On the third day took the boat to Tesco's for a big stock up prior to next crew arriving and returned to Basin.

The next day, Sun 12 Sept, my friends Geoff and Linda (and also son's in-laws) arrived from Sussex. After a quick lunch and a tour of the basin, we set off on a lovely warm afternoon. As they could stay one less day than originally planned, we agreed to cruise longer each day to make it to Stoke. The first night was spent south of Marple between Br 7/8 and opposite a huge field of deer - lovely sight.

Next day we set off at 9.30 in dry, breezy weather but by the time we got to Macclesfield the heavens opened and Geoff and Linda took their lunch indoors while I stopped under a bridge to put wet gear on! Still raining at Gurnett Aqueduct but by the time we got to Bosley locks (4.25pm) it was lovely and sunny and we decided to go down while the weather was good (forecast bad this week!). Got to bottom at 5.20 and continued on (dinner soon in oven) to Congleton Aqueduct - they were very impressed with the view so the extra mileage was worth it!

Next morning passed Ron on Inkie and I who I had not seen for 4 years (Thames) after which it rained heavily, esp as we filled with water at Hall Green! Stopped for lunch at Red Bull Aqueduct just as rained stopped. Left in warm sunshine and at Harecastle had 20m wait and sped thru in 35 mins! It was still sunny on exit too! Continued on to moor at Etruria, opposite the statue of James Brindley. The next day we walked to the Moorcroft Pottery, caught a bus (used bus pass!!!) into Stoke. Had good lunch at Potteries Museum and then had a look round - very interesting and loads to see. Returned to boat to 'do' Flint Mill and Industrial Museum.

Thursday walked with Linda and Geoff to railway station and then after q lunch went shopping in town and then to a very strange warehouse-style Tesco (soon to be replaced by new one opp Potteries Museum) - got taxi back to boat!

Friday prepared boat for next crew. Son Steven, Julia and Lauren (5) arrived from Devon for tea at 6pm. The next day they wanted to see the town (understood my reluctance when they saw it) and then we went to the Emma Bridgewater factory which was lovely (esp coffee and cake!) Back to boat, made lunch and Steve helped us down 2 locks then took car to station car park and cycled back along towpath to meet us - we were at the 5th lock by then! Soon eating lunch on the sunny back deck. Started raining at 3.30 just as we were approaching Barlaston to moor and caused a fisherman to make a large catch - he thanked us!!!

Sunday we went on to Stone, mooring above Star Lock. Steve went to collect car and joined us for a pub lunch. After that they drove home - how time flies!

Monday, after quick shop, I went just 3 miles and 2 locks to chill in the countryside at Br 86, opp a huge attractive Tudor-style house. Walked into the lovely village of Burston, where many cottages are lined up along the large village pond.

Tuesday went on to Ingestre (4m, 2locks!), passing fellow Cutwebber Mike on Draco. Here I walked up long tree-lined track to Ingrestre Hall - passing converted farm buildings, huge 'new' stables, converted 'old' stables, church, to the Hall itself, now an arts college and sadly not open to the public, despite having lovely gardens (hidden by wall!). That was a lovely day - sunny wark, no wind - is this the Indian summer starting - ha ha!

Wednesday went to Great Haywood, stopping for farm shop (food and roof pansies) and water etc. Turned into Staff and Worc and went on to moor at Tixall Wide - my first TIXALL FIX for 4 years - how I love this place! Now for a few days of maintenance - really need to do some painting!! Th - heavy rain o/n. Friday overcast and windy so painted in am and went to Shugborough Hall in pm - did gardens, tour of house, tea and cake and then walked up to restored walled veg garden - looking good now. Bought some vegs! Eve really cold so lit fire - never before in Sept! Saturday - lt frost am, then sun - more painting. Late pm and sun behind trees - moved above Tixall Lock to make the most of the weather - and much better TV pic!

Sunday to Acton Trussell, had a good walk around pleasant village. Monday Penkridge - above lock as dredging being carried out below. Two lots of shopping. Met Dawn and David on Grapevine and the next morning as I set off met the Farmers on Leo and then Alan on Carolan - all IWA committee members heading for Tixall. Went on to moor s of Long Molls Bridge nr Hatherton Marina. Lots of boats here and within an hour I was joined by old friends from my former village - Roger and Mirianna on Maggie May. Enjoyed a couple of days in their company, sitting out the pouring Wednesday rain.

Thursday - passed only 3 boats on S&W and 2 were in the dreaded narrows! - always disliked these since I met a boater who had a sprung mattress trapped on his prop! Went on to Brewood, to moor opp boatyard and near Maggie May and also Gary and Beryl on The Answer who I had first met at Braunston in 2008 when they had just moved onto their boat. That evening went with Roger and Mirianna to an Acoustic Evening at the Cricket Club. Lots of locals performed but the best of all was when R&M sang and played their melodians, what talent and def the best act of the evening - at least until I had to leave to make sure the dog hadn't wrecked the boat!

The Shroppie is definitely the most busy canal I have met all year! Friday it poured all day so stayed in - the worst rain was as I took the dog out - and she hid under a bush and wouldn't come out!

Saturday cruised to Wheaton Aston - stocked up with diesel (56.9p) - and there is a new solid mooring - then on to Norbury Junction - where I met Andy and Liz on Snowgoose (also seen them this year on Lancaster and Bridgewater!). Today it is going to rain most of the day so I can catch up with the blog - I know, almost a month late - but I have been busy!! Tomorrow I hope to book my winter mooring - fingers crossed it goes to plan!

Full boat for a family weekend

2010-09-07T15:46:00.004+01:00

Decided to stay an extra day at 'Little Moreton' so I could visit the beautiful house - well these moorings aren't busy. So BH Monday afternoon saw me walking in sun and on dry grass across the fields. Left Eb tied to tree outside while I had a look round the Tudor house - declined the tour as I had done it twice before in last 10 years! On Tuesday, sunny and warm, I continued on to Congleton and moored on the embankment opposite the magnificent railway viaduct. Here I was able to walk down old railway line into town for a bit of retail therapy (bus back), polish the 2nd side of the boat (at last!) and enjoy the scenery. Wednesday afternoon I was collected by boating friends Graham and Lyn who live in Congleton, and was driven to a local reservoir (would look it up in atlas but Eb tore it up whilst I was out the other day!) and then for a very good meal in a pub nearby. Thursday was shopping and preparing for crew.

Daughter Lesley, husband Phil and Louise arrived Friday afternoon after a prolonged trip from Lancashire. Saturday set off about 10am to travel to Bosley locks. 2 boats waiting so decided to have early lunch, then Louise went for a nap while we set off up the locks. Phil keen to steer so Lesley and I went to our outdoor gym (BW pinched this phrase for their vans from me after I filled in one of their questionnaires!). Despite a few knocks on the walls Louise slept all the way up the 12 locks! After topping up the water, etc at the top we decided to make use of the only visitor mooring here. This was ideal as son Steve, wife Julia and Lauren (5) had now purchased their trailer tent nr Nottingham and were heading for their campsite 10mins from us. They joined us for a meal, sadly having to go back to the tent at 7.30 as Louise sleeps in the lounge!

They joined us again for a cooked breakfast before taking Phil back for his car, then driving back to Devon. What a lovely gettogether it was. We then set off, in strong wind, for Gurnett Aqueduct but realised we would not get to the pub for an early lunch so decided to stop at the Fool's Nook at Oakgrove. Here we had an excellent Sunday lunch and delicious dessert. Returned to boat to find dog had a bad case of Separation Anxiety again and had shredded a 1 foot pile of canal and family history mags, plus road atlas etc - which I was meaning to 'sort'. Took quite a while to tidy up before we could erect Louise's cot and let her have a nap. She was asleep before we set off!! Less than an hour later we were at the Aqueduct - where we had great difficulty in mooring in the even stronger wind. After a stretch of legs for all, we had early tea and then the three set off home, Louise already in her PJ's! A really lovely weekend seeing lots of my lovely family. Well at least we had a dry weekend and only one brief shower. That makes 7 dry days in a row - more than the 5 odd dry days in August!

Fair Weather Sailing!

2010-08-28T17:05:00.006+01:00

Travelled on to Middlewich and the next day I was joined by daughter Lesley and granddau Louise for the day. Found a nice little playground next to Tesco's and after lunch went for walk down the locks. Also met nb Enchantress - can't remember the owners names but first met them at Crick Show 2001, at a marina moorers gathering. The next day was very windy so stayed put. Went to take on diesel on Saturday before starting up the locks. Soon caught up with a couple towing a project boat. They kindly helped me thru whilst stopping for a breather. Went on to moor outside Wheelock just as it started to rain. The next day to Wheelock and on Monday a bus trip to Sandbach. A lovely town, good Waitrose, Homebase, Lidl but the other shops are a bit small or disappointing - it always seems better on market day (Thursday)!

On Tuesday 2mph winds were forecast so decided to stay put yet again. Wednesday was lovely, no rain (until evening) and little wind so made my way up the first of the 24 locks (Heartbreak Hill) to Hassall Green. Thursday, another dry day and little wind, apart from a few gusts, so made the most of the good weather and went on to Rode Heath. Nice village, especially by the canal but isn't it a pity that there is no more information on the former salt works there - now just a landscaped hill is left. Nor is there any information about the former Seddon's Mill and Wharf - other than the old carved stones indicating their former presence on the wall of a new development. Good PO stores here tho.

Friday was another dry day so went up to Red Bull where I just got a mooring - always popular here and I usually moor at Church Lawton instead. Quick top up at Tescos after lunch. The next day, after using the facilities, I set off again (working the last 3 locks of H Hill) to escape to the Macclesfield before the bank holiday weekend traffic got going*. Now only 2 shady moorings nr the winding hole past Kent Green - you used to be able to moor opposite the lovely huge house, but sadly this length has been overgrown for some time. I went on to moor at the 'Little Moreton' moorings - just as it rained and the wind blew very strongly - luckily could temporarily make use of the railings, but not helped as 2 boats passed at the same time! Now will sit out the wind again! May even visit the Tudor hall yet again - if I can battle tomorrow's forecast 21mph winds!! On the other hand might be able to get some of those painting jobs done.

*Heritage Narrowboats say although their hire boats are going out, very few boats seem to be leaving the marina this year - yes, it has seemed quiet this month! Wonder why - possibly the weather?!

Weather seems to have affected my travels a lot this August - have counted up that we have only had 5 days without rain - and on one of those it rained at 11pm!

I was intrigued to see that after installing a counter I had so many people reading my blog - I would love to know who you are - please leave me a message!!!

Ask Harry about the Ribble!

2010-08-17T11:33:00.004+01:00

Chris joined me on Thursday 15 July as planned, as I passed Barton Grange Nurseries! Mary couldn't come yet as she was looking after Chris' mum in Birmingham after a fall. After a VERY windy journey we arrived in the Link Basin at 4.30 - to find it full of boats. This was today's 7 boats who had gone down to the pontoons before lock 8, only to be told it was much too windy to go on the river, and the tide would be too high to stay overnight. Then then made their way back up the locks to the basin where we found them, two staying in the lock. We moored at a very jaunty angle by the bridge, later joined by nb Phyllis May on the other side.

The next morning at 8am unexpectedly (to only us it appeared, so we didn't have breakfast) BW arrived 3h early to say we were all to go down the locks, in pouring rain, to be ready to leave later, if possible. We got down to pontoons before lock 8 and were told to wait - we were now 12 boats! At 2pm we were all told it was too windy to go to Tarleton, but 2 were allowed to go to Preston.

At 1pm the next day (Sat 17) and still very windy, we were sent to the pontoons before the sealock - a point of no return, we would either go to Tarleton or Preston - depending on Harry the BW expert at Tarleton. We were also joined by 3 more boats going to Preston - all moored off 1 pontoon! We eat lunch on the back deck with a lot of nervous tension/excitement about! At 3.30 the air horn went and, with boats getting stuck on mud, a lot of shouting, we went thru the sea lock - to be told we were all going to Preston. It was a good journey, the wind had dropped, as Harry hoped, and we made it to the dock to moor on pontoons - actually it was a lovely atmosphere amongst the boaters bound for Tarleton. Mary was now travelling to join us.

After booking our departure at Preston Marina, a morning exploring round the dock (1km long), and purchases at Morrisons, we had a leisurely lunch. We were told to be ready to leave the pontoon at 3.30pm for a 4pm sailing - after they had "asked Harry". More nervous tension but we were soon on our way, despite some idiot trying to overtake before leaving the dock, coming too close and dragging us with him. Out on the river, being a slower boat we were soon overtaken by most boats but one stayed with us and we got thru Tarleton lock at 6.45. Here we met Harry - arm in sling as he had just had a new battery put in his pacemaker! Who is going to make decisions when he retires - he is no spring chicken and no one else can make the decision about sailings!

Now our plans have changed. As the L&L will be closed on 2 August, indefinitely, due to lack of water, we decided to travel south and then up to Ellesmere Port. When we got to Wigan, and travelling in heavy rain, we found the level at the junction was 18" down and we were struggling to move - good idea to go south! Spent a night at the lovely Ince Moss, and another at Lymm - another must.

At Anderton, my son Graham and grandson Edward arrived in the evening to spend the weekend. Next day after looking over the boat lift and enjoying the somewhat neglected children's activities, we set off. We decided to give the Weaver a miss again as 5 year old Edward was looking forward to working locks! A leisurely morning then a busy, long afternoon as we joined the many hire boats working up the flight into Middlewich, mooring for the night on the M. Branch, with a view of the Weaver. After tea introduced Edward to loud game of Mousie Mousie and then even louder Pit (I apologised to our neighbours in the morning!). The next day more locks in lovely sunshine, then stopped for a BBQ at Sykes Hollow, the lovely site provided by SUCS. Sadly Graham and Edward had to leave that pm after a lovely weekend with them.

Continued on to Chester where we had a total of 3 wonderful days exploring, before going on to spend a night at Ellesmere Port Boat Museum - there is so much to see there. Set off after lunch and returned to Chester for a night at Tower Wharf. Next day went to Beeston where we had a lovely morning at the castle before making our way down towards Nantwich. Here Chris and Mary left me after a very busy, thrilling almost 3 week cruise - they will be back later!

After babysitting in Lancashire, I left Nantwich and slowly made my back along the Middlewich Branch where I am now sitting, in rain and sun, looking down on the River Weaver.

Where did the time go?

2010-07-11T12:14:00.008+01:00

Events took over my life as you will see as you read on!
I spent 7 days (from 8 June) at Hest Bank in lovely sunny weather. After retrieving the car from Tewitfield and another visit from Lesley and Louise when we had lunch and a walk in Morecombe, I spent a lot of the time visiting and walking in the area. A day walking in Silverdale, Arndale then on to Grange over Sands was most enjoyable. Another trip to Kendal, also to Sizergh castle - where it rained all day so postponed the planned walk, went to Windermere and the World of Peter Rabbit - superb furry animals in book settings. The next day I walked the filled in the canal to within a couple of miles of Kendal. Then I learnt that my dear Uncle Charlie who had been in a hospice for respite had worsened and would probably not be going home , I kept in constant touch.

I dragged myself away from the wonderful Hest Bank and then had another day and night in Lancaster, lovely town and market but the shops are rather smaller than you would expect. On 16 June I went on to Galgate (top of Glasson branch) for a couple of days. On 18 June I had moored in lovely countryside when I was told that my uncle had deteriorated further. On Saturday 19 June I took the boat to Garstang Marina - I had planned to leave it here the following week as my children had planned a special birthday family BBQ weekend in Kent. At 11.40 I left the marina (the owner kindly having taken me to collect my car from Galgate) and drove to Kent. At 8.30pm I was able to visit my uncle who was now very poorly. I stayed with my aunt, visiting the hospice every day. Sadly Charlie died on the Tuesday but after helping her with the necessary funeral plans etc, Aunt Erica was most insistent that I went to my son's house on the Thursday as planned.

On Saturday (most of my children now camping in son Graham's garden) we all drove to the planned pub meal. On the way we made an emergency stop for grandson to use facilities in the village hall - I was taken in also and found myself at my own surprise birthday party, surrounded by family and friends from school, youth club, ex work colleagues and a few boaters - I HAD ABSOLUTELY NO IDEA !!! What a wonderful day I had. Next day we had the planned family BBQ! A fabulous weekend with fanatastic weather, sadly followed by the funeral on Monday which dear Erica had organised quickly so those travelling to attend the party could easily go to the service. I stayed on a few days as my birthday was mid week and finally returned to the boat on Sunday 4 July.

I then had 11 days before I left the Lancaster Canal. Strong wind prevented me from leaving the marina but on Monday evening I was in the lovely Garstang town. Tuesday I had a dentist appointment to keep near daughter's, Wednesday caught up with food shopping etc and on Thursday after attending the local market I had a drive to Fleetwood and Blackpool.

On Friday 9 I cruised back to Galgate and on Saturday morning I walked 3miles down locks in light rain showers to Glasson Dock (we hadn't been able to stay overnight 5 weeks ago). Had another good walk around plus delicious mussels for lunch at the Dalton Arms by the dock. Walked back up to boat in constant rain - but it is a very pretty flight - the wild flowers were gorgeous.

Today Sunday 11 is very windy and pretty cool so can catch up with a few jobs. On Monday will find that country mooring again before returning to Garstang. Chris and Mary arrive on Thursday and we have a 10.52 appointment at the Ribble Link. I am really sorry to be leaving and do hope, once again, that this is not my last visit up here!!!

To Tewitfield and back to Hest Bank

2010-06-09T20:27:00.002+01:00

How time flies when you are having fun. After our trip up the Ribble we spent the first night in the country. Next day we went on to Bilsborrow where Chris and I took buses and a train back to Rufford to collect cars. I have been carless for 4 1/2 years and this is the first time I have ever moved a car and boat during the cruising months - I'll let you know which is easiest!

Next day we went on to Garstang to visit the lovely town, market and shops - I spent 4 weeks here when I purchased Kanbendun Again (then called Honeymoon!) and it was lovely to return. We continued on to moor for the night in the countryside.

On Friday we set off for Glasson Basin. At the top lock we were informed by a boater that there was a boat rally in the basin with 30-40 boats - we would be lucky to get a mooring, although another boater said we would be made welcome. The exact same thing happened exactly 5 years ago on our first trip with KA. This time we decided to risk it and had a lovely trip down this flight of heavy locks. Yes, at the bottom there was no space and as we did a tour of the basin, every boater seemed to be looking the other way and no one invited us to breast up. Jilly's Dream was on the visitor mooring - but no-one aboard. We decided to leave the basin and after the 1st bridge (and after 4 attempts) we managed to find a place where we could get the stern in and the bow out 'reverse K&A style' (making it easier to use the gangplank for a dog who dislikes walking over water!) We walked back past the boaters (still busily not noticing us) and made a beeline for the ice cream shop - eating our ices at the lockside in sunshine. We made our planned visit to the Smokehouse for fish and cheese, then on to the edge of the village for a view of the Lune Estuary, followed by a quick visit to the marina chandlery.

As lots of rain was forecast for the next day we decided to have a sunny evening 'cruise' up the locks and moored at Galgate, ready for a late meal.

Saturday, thinking moorings in Lancaster over BH would be full, we bussed in and out, cruising on after lunch and mooring at Hest Bank. Five years ago the old wharf on the beach (where goods were off loaded for the canal boats above) was exposed (after being covered by sand for 100 years) and you could walk to it over grass tussocks in the sand. Now the wharf is half buried and most of the grass has been washed away and there is just more treacherous sand - so different from last time.

Sunday we set off for Carnforth. We had done the town and station museum 5 years ago, so after a quick visit to Tesco and sanny station we continued on to Tewitfield. Another K&A style mooring and the surprise of a new marina. Owned by the Longlands Hotel (as is the caravan site) it has been built with 2 storey holiday homes around it. Very pleasant but only 1/2 dozen boats moored there! I enquired - £100 for 2 weeks if I needed a temporary mooring.

On Monday, after collecting the cars by bus, we spent the day in Kendal followed by a very good meal at the hotel.

Next morning Chris and Mary left for Suffolk after a very busy week. Now I was free to have 6 more days in Tewitfield, walking the unnavigable canal (all but the last 5 miles) in stages, with visits to Kendal (again), Coniston (and a trip on the restored steam yacht 'Gondola') and Windermere. Also a weekend trip to Leyland to look after granddaughter Louise whilst her dad tiled the kitchen and mum was at work. The 7 days went very quickly and as there were only 2 boats up there weekdays I spent an extra day before returning to Hest Bank. It is just so lovely up here - my favourite places - Tewitfield (for the Lake District), Hest Bank for the fantastic view of the sea - from the boat (!) and Garstang (for the lovely town) plus of course all the lovely country moorings in between. Beginning to think even 7 weeks is not long enough!!

Up the Ribble and on the Lancaster

2010-05-26T07:05:00.006+01:00

We made it up the Ribble! Chris and Mary joined me on Monday morning and after a quick breakfast we set off down the Rufford locks with nb Dizzie Lizzie. A good run down these heavy but lovely locks to moor for lunch at Rufford. Drove up to collect the other car and set off again at 2.30 to use the sanny station before continuing on to the moorings after Tarleton swing bridge. Unfortunately no space for our 57' and we couldn't breast up as Ebony makes a good fuss about jumping between boats, especially at 5.30am (when she has to 'go' - poor girl has developed liver problems). Luckily everyone very kindly moved along and we were able to squeeze in.

Next morning we were waiting at Tarleton lock (Wigan told us 7.42am but lockie said 8.30 - hurray a lie in!). At 8.47 when the tide was right we left the lock with nb Gamesh. There were 3 boats to follow. Weather conditions were perfect - the mist had cleared and it was warm enough and hardly any wind. The Douglas was flowing well, against us, but we set off at a good speed, with Chris at the helm - he is the river expert! It was really lovely with low banks and lots of birds - including many Shelduck. As the Asland lamp came into view round a bend, the engine began overheating (as expected) - we throttled down to 2000 and kept at this speed the rest of the way.

An easy turn at the lamp and into the very wide Ribble. We were then going with the flow which was easing as the tide was on the point of turn. Still the journey went well but there was much less wildlife to see. As we got to near Savick Brook (it is so difficult to see the entrance as you approach) we could see a white car parked (was it BW we thought). I rang to get permission to go up the Brook and they said yes and it was them in the car - brilliant, much better than the small sign you cannot read until too late. Made a wide turn (now against the tide) and into Savick Brook, followed by Gamesh. We got to the pontoon at 11.14 where we had to wait for the lockies to close the sea lock behind us and at 11.20 we set off again. The tidal journey had taken 2h 20m which was what we hoped - but can take 4h! We learnt as we went into the first pound lock that the other 3 boats had to go to Preston dock as it had been such a low tide.

Nine locks later, all worked for us as we were the only boats, we arrived at the lovely basin at the top at 1.45. Time for lunch. As we sat eating Linda vaguely spotted a 'girl' and pushchair on the wooden bridge ahead. Then her phone rang - it was dau Lesley and baby Louise come to find us - what a wonderful surprise! We all set off to go south to see the terminus of the canal (we hadn't done that 5 years ago), then turned and Lesley went back to her car and we continued on for an hour to moor in the countryside - and relax! What a fantastic day we had had.

Hovering before the Ribble

2010-05-22T07:08:00.005+01:00

Whilst at Halsall I met daughter Lesley and granddaughter Louise (13m) at Windmill Farm. We had a lovely time meeting the varied animals (goats, sheep, llamas, alpacas, pigs, calf and a gorgeous 3-week shetland pony) before having a snack in their coffee bar. After that a ride on their 15" guage railway (like the Romney Hythe and Dymchurch trains) and then a while in the soft play area.

Louise was then taken home for her nap and I decided to find the recommended Fairy Glen walk at the top of Parbold Hill. It was absolutely beautiful - trickling stream and small waterfalls through beautiful woods thick with bluebells - something I miss from Sussex. It was also accessible from the canal at Bridge 40 - walk over bridge, then over railway bridge, turn eastwards on track and onto footpath. Across field and you will find yourself at the bottom of the glen. It is actually just north of Appley locks but I don't think accessible from there.

On Thursday I moved to Scarisbrick and in the afternoon went to Leyland to see Lesley and Louise again. That evening I babysat while Phil and Lesley had a rare evening out. Next morning I returned to the boat and went to Red Lion Caravans to fill up with diesel (78p and you can choose your split!). Also bought fuel cans so I can stock up whilst on Lancaster where I hear it is more difficult to get fuel - unless you use the fuel depot in Garstang - another good reason to keep the car with me whilst up there! I will probably leave it at Lesley's after the Lancaster.

Moved on to moor east of Burscough (ready for the 2 swing bridges in the morning). What a really lovely and hot day it is. I cycled back to Scarisbrick to get the car - and found some friends Peter and I met at Crick in 2003 - Bill and Babs on nb Kaydee. After a good chat we found we were all going to meet again on the Lancaster.

Collected the car and drove to the large carpark opposite, but not owned by, the pub at Rufford Top. Then another cycle back to the boat. Ebony had been left 1 1/2 hours but although barking was not too stressed - hadn't even shredded any paper from the log box. Unlike when we went for a meal in Liverpool and came back to find a large stack of magazines had been ripped and scattered thickly all over the lounge area. Oh the joys of a dog suffering from Separation Anxiety - I will go anywhere with you but PLEASE DON'T LEAVE ME!

Today I have two swing bridges to Burscough and a trip to Tesco's before going on to moor nr Rufford Top. Then I will take car down to Rufford and return to wait for Chris and Mary's arrival early Monday morning. Tuesday 7.42am we go up the Ribble!!!

Jim has fixed it for me!

2010-05-16T15:19:00.003+01:00

Great news! Jim Woolfall, BSS/engineer and member of Mersey Motor Boat Club (Scarisbrick Branch) has taken apart my alternator and found the brushes were worn. This took a while as he was off on a club cruise over the BH weekend and then busy with other committments after his previous 2 week holiday. I was fine with a hook up and enjoyed a long weekend with son Steve and his family in Devon. On my return, Jim had refitted the alternator and all was well. I left the boat club next day then gave the boat a test run/charge eastwards and returned to Scarisbrick. No beeping or buzzing and batteries charging - bliss! I travelled on to Halsall, moving the car in the afternoon, so I could do a weekend food shop.

On Saturday I cruised to Lydiate, the last decent area to leave a boat. The countryside is attractive but mostly arable and very flat - just like around Rufford and the fenlands around Ely. At Lydiate I moored opposite the Boat Club's headquarters and took a bus into Liverpool for the afternoon. A lovely day and Liverpool was even busier around the dock than when I went by boat a few weeks ago.

Today is very windy so I will stay put and return to Halsall in the morning - mooring a 57' boat with 15mph winds blowing you to the other side is no joke!

Liverpool is Fab!

2010-05-04T17:40:00.012+01:00

Despite the dodgy alternator, we scraped our way out of the marina in extremely windy conditions to travel towards Aintree. We moored on the 'Melling Straight' with nb Gloriana. Next morning, again pretty windy and cold, we did the last few miles and swingbridge by 9.30 to join 6 other boats all going to Liverpool with our BW escort. We were joined by Chris's sister and brother-in-law who were, like us, very excited to be making this trip - for me it was my first ever visit to Liverpool. Two swing bridges on, and after stopping at Litherland for facilities, also for most of us to remove Liverpool's rubbish from our props, we set off the last stretch to meet the BW team at Stanley Locks. A good flight down and soon we were weaving our way through the docks - following the buoys marking the route. Eventually turned into the lovely Albert Dock and then into Salthouse where we found very good, wide pontoons (with elec hook up!) and water points. Time for a very late lunch.

We then had four whole days to explore this wonderful city. The low moorings were quiet despite being in the centre of town and beside a very busy wide road. We managed to squeeze a lot in - 2 cathedrals, Red Bus Tour, Maritime (and Slavery) Museum, the Beatles Story (fantastic and with 2 sites it takes ages if you hear and read everything, as we did!), marvellous echoing circular Reading Room at the Library (now closed for restoration), Mersey Ferry trip, Crosby beach to see the 100 Gormley statues. There was so much to do, much of it free, and we didn't even go shopping! It would be easy to fill the allowed 2 weeks stay - without exhausting yourself as we did! It really was a fantistic stay with wonderful moorings.

The return journey was also good - apart from managing to catch a runaway buoy on our rudder, the 2 concrete blocks stopping the gates from closing on the 2nd lock (no they were not from our buoy), a sunken car and another stop at Litherland to leave the prop rubbish behind.

Next day I was back in the marina on hook up. As the alternator had worked intermittently on the trip, they returned the new one eventually ordered and said they didn't know what to do next. Chris and Mary went home and the next day I left the marina to moor outside. The following evening the alternator worked but, of course, Bank Holiday friday it didn't. Luckily I was opposite Mersey Motor Boat Club (my cunning plan - I am a member of AWCC via Cutweb) and they were able to give me a hook up for the weekend etc. Now waiting for their highly recommended resident engineer to find a solution to my baffling problem. The mooring also gives me a chance to go to visit son Steve and family in Devon next weekend, so I will definitely not be leaving here until at least 12th May.

I'm Free - Oh no I'm not!

2010-04-18T21:02:00.002+01:00

Having spent a lovely winter in Fettler's Wharf Marina at Rufford I set off on Monday 12th back to the mainline at Latham (Rufford Junction). I was accompanied by my daughter, her husband (and almost toddler Louise) who live locally and had offered to help me up the 6 heavy locks to the junction. It was a lovely, sunny day and we had a good trip up the locks to arrive in time for Louise's tea.

I had gone into the marina in October with battery charging problems which the owners had promised to put right for me, meanwhile a hook up was most welcome this year. Nothing was done by February, well it was a cold winter, but I then went away for 5 weeks and by the time I returned they were busy, despite keeping in touch with them. By the time I left they told me that there was no problem with the output to the batteries. Of course by the time I got to the top of the locks I knew that this was not correct so Wednesday pm I arrived at their new sister marina at Scarisbrick in need of an urgent hook up. Am now waiting for a new alternator! How am I so unlucky - I had a new alternator March 06, then another 2 years later in April 08 in Ely. This one has only lasted 18m (until October 09) when it failed again. Not to mention the new PRM gearbox I had in September (after only 4 years since the previous one).

The other problem here is that they have closed all the services bar water at Rufford Junction and also ALL the services at Burscough. Anyone coming this way should bear in mind that services are only in Wigan (by BW office), down the 6 locks on Rufford Branch, or in Litherland (needing a booked BW escort). All this makes it rather difficult to cruise slowly and explore this lovely part of the L&L - which BW Wigan don't seem to understand my wish to do!

Meanwhile I am getting lots of jobs done at my mooring in front of the wonderful coffee shop, providing entertainment for the visitors and answering all their questions... yes I do live on board, no it isn't cold in winter, yes I am very lucky to travel all over the country, yes the locks are hard work but it is more fun than going to a gym.

Tomorrow (Monday) Chris and Mary arrive from Suffolk. We have an appointment with a BW escort at 9.30 am, Bridge 9, on Wednesday - when we go through Aintree, Litherland to Liverpool and moor in Salthouse Dock for 4 days. I have never been to Liverpool and we are all looking forward to this exciting trip - just keeping fingers crossed that the weather keeps reasonably fine.

Apologies - it is now March!

2010-03-11T14:30:00.005Z

I had to give up the blog in September as access to a computer was impossible and didn't get mine fixed until November! The company went bust but I managed to retrieve my laptop - it had been repaired and was sitting in the London workshop.

To continue the cruise briefly, I continued slowly northwards to moor on the Rufford Branch at Fettler's Wharf Marina. Lovely smallish marina with a number of friendly liveaboards and only 15mins drive from my daughter, son-in-law and newest granddaughter born in April. Have had a great winter getting to know her.

Currently am down in Kent for a month childminding by day for my son and dau-in-law's 11m, 2.5 and 5 year old boys while they extend and decorate their new house ready to move on 22 March. Very hectic but great fun seeing so much of the children.

Returning to boat about end March, probably Easter, before heading back to the main line for Liverpool in April - with crew! Plans this summer are 6-7 weeks on the Lancaster, Wigan to Leeds, Rochdale (a first and with crew!) and then possibly to Ellesmere for the winter. Will re-commence post when I start cruising. It is nice to be back!

Chris and Mary take charge

2009-09-12T17:53:00.003+01:00

Moved boat up to junction - nice and sunny now! Enjoyed a lovely weekend here - amazingly on two walks to Tixall did not meet any boaters I knew but did gain some info on Fettlers Wharf Marina on Rufford Canal. Also met few around me - including a lady I knew from Devizes whilst sitting on the junction wall eating ices from the Ice Cream boat - it is such a small world when boating!

On Tuesday Chris and Mary arrived to take the boat through Stone and up to Caldon Canal whilst I drove their car to sort out my house prior to selling. Decided I would rather a house near some of the grandchildren, rather than none of them!

I rejoined the boat on Wednesday eve - now at Milton. We had a lovely trip up Caldon and Leek (poor C&M had done the worst bit at the bottom, facing stone throwing children hiding from the now present BW staff). Alas not enough time to do more than brief exploring although had a lovely day in Leek - despite TIC saying there was nothing to see!

Made our way to moor nr Cheddleston station - very entertaining, then another night at Consall Forge after turning at Froghall - such a shame so few boats can get through tunnel and enjoy the lovely moorings in basin. Moored last night just before Milton and made a 7.30 start next day to get to Etruria before the troublesome kids get out of bed!

Moored overnight at Heritage Narrowboats Marina at Kent Green. In am I hired car, we collected C&M's from Caldon and we then set off in opp. directions - me to help Lesley and Phil move house with baby Louise - a very busy time!!

Moving on to Alrewas then Great Heywood

2009-09-12T17:26:00.003+01:00

Went on through the now in use flood lock to the Derwent Crossing, flow rather fast, and soon entered Derwent Mouth Lock. Here lent lockies my Seasearcher magnet (they already had 2 in use) so that they could retrieve a piece of lock mechanism without closing the canal!

Moored 2 days in Shardlow, miserable rain, and had an unsuccessful gear box oil change - seems from the local expert and RCR my gearbox has had it and needs replacing - thank you PRM, this is my second new one in 3 years, or will be if it can be obtained!

Moved on to Willington where I was joined by daughter Lesley, husband Phil and 3 1/2 month Louise - her first trip on the boat. We went on in frequent showers to spend the night at Branston Water Park. In the afternoon Phil walked to get bus to retrieve car - got a real soaking in heavy rain. The next day we continued in lovely weather to Alrewas - where they left me in pm to wait for next crew!

On Wednesday 5 August I was joined by Les and Kathy (former boaters from All Seasons who I had first met on Thames in 07 and then on Great Ouse in 08. That afternoon we travelled to Fradley, then the next day after stocking up in Rugeley to Wolseley Bridge - where we were actually able to have a BBQ with Alrewas sausages - 3 types! After visiting Wolseley Centre - Wildlife Trust garden, we set off for Great Haywood. We had a lovely meal in Clifford Arms before Les and Kath set off home.

Computers! - great when they are working

2009-08-29T17:30:00.007+01:00

Back to the blog at last! On 26th July I intended to download all my photos from our Lincoln trip - but the computer froze on start up repeatedly and still not fixed (now using son-in-law's computer till fixed). Couldn't write blog either which is why I have 'disappeared' since 13 July.

Trip was fine, although difficult to moor at Cromwell Lock - unless we used a hoist to get the dog off. Luckily we were able to moor alongside a 1 1/2 beam and use steps to get up middle height wall. The low pontoons were occupied by high 'yoghurt pots' (isn't that much better than 'plastic' or 'bobby' boats!)

To be brief, we loved the Fossdyke and Witham, very quiet and lots of places to explore. Lincoln was wonderful - especially the moorings opposite the market and outside Waterside Shopping Centre. So handy for climbing up to cathedral and castle - which we did so many times. We all did tours of the castle and cathedral - and Mary even got to ring bells on practice night. Could have spent even longer there. Son Steve joined us at Lincoln and we travelled on to Boston. The old pontoons are a bit strange but the view of the Stump was great and we had a fantastic sunset the evening our neighbour left. Even managed a BBQ!

Had a look at St Botolph's Church (I didn't know the Stump was the tower until I got there!), Maud Foster's Windmill - privately owned and do marvellous lunches and afternoons teas. After Steve left we went to the Black Sluice lock. Very new and so was the cafe - but it was closed, a window broken and unfurnished - why?!

Now it is time to return to canals before Chris and Mary have to go home, so sadly no time to explore more drains. On the way back up the Witham we stopped at Woodhall Spa (as recommended by Iain and Alison on nb Nobby) and found a delightful 50's type resort town. The museum in the tin cottage was very interesting but Kinema in the Woods was showing a film so closed to us and the spa building was sadly neglected - but hopefully to be restored in the future.

We returned to the High Street and had tea outside a cafe served by an elderly lady in Victorian clothing. Ebony was given a bowl of water and another with biscuits. We sat reading the cafe's historic books of the town. Got the bus back to boat! So many other villages we would have liked to explore more fully but running out of time.

The journey back up the Trent was marred by the heavy rain we had to endure most days. Chris and Mary left at Nottingham - after helping me get in food for next crew, meeting them an hour later when son Graham, Becky with Edward, Tom and baby Charlie. We had a look round Nottingham - the castle was very disappointing for entertaining children. Next day we travelled to Sawley, spending another night before the family set off on Monday pm.

Fast(ish) Waters and Sawley Cut

2009-07-13T11:38:00.003+01:00

Had intended to spend a couple of days at Kegworth but after 4 hours of rain and a violent thunderstorm that wouldn't go away it was necessary to stay longer. Ebony was terrified of the noise and flashes and spent the time sitting and sliding off my lap or curled round my feet. Now every drop of rain and she fears the worst.

This resulted in the water level in Kegworth lock cut rising quite a bit although the flood lock was never shut - woke in the early hours to see water gushing past - guess they were letting a lot down over night.

It was nice to have company - Chris and Sue on Innisfree also stayed to sit out the weather - and we did a lot of socialising as well as exploring the area. I was lucky to be let in the museum, despite being shut, and although it didn't have anything about the river there was plenty about the village and the local sock industry! They even supplied royalty!

On Wednesday we all set off, saying goodbye at Ratcliffe lock. We were passed by a flotilla of lovely small steam launches. Redhill flood lock was open and traffic light green so I continued towards Thrumpton weir - it is really weird that you can't SEE the weir but can feel the pull of the water. By now I realised that the Trent was flowing pretty fast and soon I could see the water gushing over Trent Lock gates. Shall I moor here? Will I have difficulty mooring in the flast flow? Decided to go uphill to Sawley as planned. That was the loneliest mile I have done - no I don't think I will use the facilities to the right of the lock! Soon tied on the high lock moorings and then in the lock. Phew!

A first time hirer came up behind me as I left the lock - Newark had told them no problems on the Trent (they had been held up for 2? days at Pillings Flood Lock) and were now pretty disgusted to see the flow of the Trent and that the boards showed yellow at Sawley.

Now I have to wait until Monday when Chris and Mary join me to go to Lincoln and Boston. On Friday I took the bus into Nottingham. After a good look round, lunch in a nice cafe and a trip to the Castle - no dogs allowed but I was allowed to use their loos - there were none mentioned on the tourist signs in town. Then walked down the waterfront - couldn't resist seeing who was moored up as you never know who you might miss - and there was Sue (from Innisfree) about to work Castle Lock. Went back to have a cup of tea with them before I caught the bus back to Sawley.

Also saw the steam launches again - they confirmed that the had been on the Great Ouse last summer (which is where I had seen them before) and also on the Thames that year too.

Well I am now looking forward to our visit to the Fossdyke. Have been to Keadby twice before but this is a first for us all.

Travelling with Friends

2009-07-06T10:52:00.005+01:00

After a week in Devon - including Lauren's 4th birthday party, a walk in hot sun, then in shade by the river at Castle Drogo, a reminiscent trip to childhood holidays' farm in Lyme Regis - I drove to Suffolk to spend 5 days with Chris and Mary. Their village was holding its first open gardens weekend and I was roped in to help with teas. A lovely time was had, weather perfect, gardens superb and £3000 was raised. Stayed on to celebrate my birthday - started with home-grown boiled eggs with home-made bread in the garden, then a fix of gardening before lunch in the shade. A lovely day culminating with a walk along the River Deben and fish meal watching boats - perfect!

Returned to boat to find plants watered and thriving so I made a donation to the club - lovely mooring too. Next morning I went the short distance to Zouch Cut to moor for a couple of days. There I met Chris and Sue on Innisfree (first met in Devizes 2007, then again at Crick Show this year). After Friday's morning of rain, levels hadn't risen much, so on Saturday morning we travelled together to Kegworth Shallow Lock to moor for the weekend. Having passed plenty of moorings at Devil's Elbow we all wished we had stopped there too for a country chill out. Oh well next time!

To Normanton on Soar and East Devon!

2009-06-23T18:07:00.004+01:00

After a trip back to Sileby Mill with brother in law John, his daughter and family, they helped me on through Mountsorrel lock and I continued on to moor below Pillings Lock. Rain forecast so I spent 2 nights here. On Monday I cycled into Loughborough, explored the shops and met Charley and Dolores on nb Felonious Mongoose outside the Albion pub - they said the moorings were fine. The rain didn't come to much after all and on Tuesday I went to moor behind Charley and Dolores. Now a chance to do a bit of sightseeing - I had never actually stopped in Loughborough before. On Wednesday, having found out by towpath telegraph that Bishop Meadow lock was closed all day for maintenance, I went with Charley and Dolores to the Bell Foundry (the oldest in the world) where we enjoyed a tour of the foundry and museum. Very interesting - full of information and lightened by lots of funnies. We were shown a set of 13 bells almost complete and destined for St Mary's Church in Cambridge (my bellringing crew, Chris and Mary, will inform me if these details are incorrect!) Bells used to be delivered by canal and river - but I didn't offer to take this extremely large order, even though I wouldn't object to another trip to Cambridge.

On Thursday morning I set off - in winds stronger than I usually travel in - but I had an appointment to keep. After Bishop Meadow lock I was back on the River Soar and soon approaching the lovely village of Normanton on Soar. As I approached Soar Boating Club moorings I couldn't see further round the bend so made the decision to turn beside the visitor moorings - which were in use. Much to one of the occupants surprise I did a good turn, aided by the strong wind, and came almost gently beside his boat. I had booked to leave the boat here and had been warned that I would probably have to breast up - the other boater hadn't been told this! Any way he was very friendly and helped me moor up beside both him and the boat behind!

That lunchtime I explored the village - really lovely and peaceful with some beautiful large houses. Unfortunately not very many passing boaters get to see the village as the only moorings are outside the nice looking pub or the boat club, or unless you walk down from Zouch.

On Saturday set off to Devon for granddaughter Lauren's 4th birthday and a week's holiday with her family. I was luckily provided with an upgrade on the hire car as the driver delivering took 45 minutes to find me despite giving him an accurate postcode - the boat club was not easily seen so I had been standing by the road all that time!

On through Leicester

2009-06-02T22:56:00.006+01:00

After Chris and Mary left I collected a hire car to drive to Kent to spend 10 days with son Graham and family, including 2 birthdays. Tom was 2 and his mum was a bit older!

I returned to boat on Monday - all was well. Glad I took a risk and left it at Kilby Bridge - took the precaution of mooring opposite BW staff live aboard! Chris arrived at 8.15 am next morning and I saw nb Woodlander at water point - they would like to travel with us. 8.30 set off on a fine day, bit windy but dry, and had a good journey to Leicester. Woodlander stopped at Castle Gardens and we moored opposite for an hour to have lunch. The moorings were full but no boaters about so we set off to complete the journey through Leicester.

North Lock was pretty grim and the area was full of rubbish. 8 years ago we moored at Limehouse Lock (by Abbey Gardens, opp BW yard) to visit Tesco but somehow it looked even worse this time and I was glad we didn't need to shop. Next was Belgrave Lock and from then on the journey was much more pleasant. Few boats moored at Birstall - and it was a nice area to stop but Chris was looking forward to the Steak Night at the Hope and Anchor so we pressed on. Glad we did because it was most enjoyable - and came with free wine too!

Chris left the next morning and I went with him on the bus to Leicester where I spent 4 hours seeing the sights, including a look at the Castle Gardens moorings - yes I can see why they are not secure (as advertised by BW) - I am sure even I could get over the fences! How about some of those razor points on top!

Next morning I went to L R Harris boatyard - where I had the gearbox oil pumped out and refilled - I am paying the price for not having it done regularly (no boatyard has even suggested it when I had services) and have found that I have no neutral gear - difficult to stop! They were very pleasant and also train RCR staff which is comforting to know. I went on to moor for the rest of the day above Junction Lock.

Friday I pressed on - tempted to moor at the lovely Sileby Mill but continued to Mountsorrel as my brother in law, daughter and family are visiting from west of Leicester on Sunday. Now can spend a few days exploring the area and catching up with some of these jobs -including touching up the paint after the trip boat at Syston had sped repeatedly past and scraped me on the awful angle iron edging - despite using BIG fenders. Why do trip boats always have to go to fast - do they like to shorten the passengers journey?

Crick Show, Welford, Market Harborough and northwards

2009-06-02T22:38:00.003+01:00

Well Crick Show was a weatherwise success this year - only 1 shower and we hardly noticed as we were enjoying lunch and the entertainment at the time. Very dissappointed that no Cornish pasty van this year - apparently they had arrived and left - not sure why. Actually looked over a few boats - the first time for 5 years! Nantwich CC (they built my last boat) had a very unusual design - including a sliding roof. Who said no side view from armchair but good for spotting bird poo? Managed to spend a fair bit too - it is not difficult!

Chris and Mary joined me for the show and we had our first BBQ, a few good evenings with fellow moorers, as well as meeting up with 'old' friends at the show.

We left Tuesday morning to much changed weather - back to fleeces and windproofs. Explored Welford for the first time and early Wednesday went down the lovely Foxton flight - Mary enjoyed it so much she wanted to do it again - she should have done it 12 years ago with Peter and I when we set off in hot sun and shorts - we had a thunderstorm as we descended and got a good soaking! But I know what she means, it is delightful. The wind got up again as we went down to Market Harborough where we had a lovely meal in the pub at the entrance to the basin.

Thursday we set off in lovely sunshine to travel the locks to Kilby Bridge, where Chris and Mary jumped ship on Friday morning.

Crack's Hill - ready for the Show!

2009-05-17T17:07:00.004+01:00

Made a quicker than planned return to Braunston, cruising when the wind was not too bad. After 2 trips into Daventry (I to shop and have hair cut, Ebony to vet - diagnosed with colitis - poor thing), I kept a watch on weather forecasts. Wind better and little rain on Wednesday so decided to leave Braunston again then. At first lock was joined by hire boat with 8 retired guide leaders. They were all keen to work the locks and kindly suggested I stay on to steer. 5 of them had been boating many times - but we still had 'fun' getting 2 boats into the locks!

Having made good progress I decided to make the most of the dry but cold weather. Stopped for quick lunch at Weltonfield then set off as a boat passed me - only to find another boat coming round the bend - oh dear I am going to be unpopular - luckily it was Roy and Celia on Strange Magic and we continued on to Watford locks. Dear Roy helped me up, while the lockie helped Celia. They now heading for base at Crick but we will meet up next week. I stopped for the night before the tunnel just after Bridge 9 - so peaceful - OK slight sound of motorway, but lovely setting!

Next morning I went through the tunnel and topped up water etc.

Went on to moor at Crack's Hill where I have moored for the show on 2 previous occasions. Found that Iain on Bees Nees had already arrived and I moored behind him on the good moorings between footbridge and winding hole. Iain attends every year, only giving up running the little show trip boat 3 years ago when I last saw him.

On Saturday 16 Tom and Christine on Lottie arrived in the fierce wind. We had met and become great friends while we were on the Great Ouse last year. It is so nice to meet up with people you haven't seen for a while. Unfortunately the canal needs a good dredging and we were unable to get their boat behind me - 4' out is not ideal. Sad because I moored exactly there 3 years ago, with many others, and planks were not even needed. Luckily a boat soon left from the other side of the winding hole and they were able to moor near me - as planned!

What with the stretch between the marina and bridge 13 cordoned off because of water voles, boating visitors to the show are going to have a big problem this year - previously we have been able to moor all the way to bridge 15. I am sure all those coming by car will be well catered for! During the show weekend very many people walk all the way up to Crack's Hill just to see all the boats - let's hope there are enough for them to see!

Tomorrow Gerry and Sandy on Stanley are due to arrive - hope they have waders!

Lower Heyford reached, now returning for Crick Show

2009-05-08T16:56:00.003+01:00

After climbing Napton locks on a lovely day in April I went on to moor at Br 124 at Priors Hardwick. Sadly access to bridle path blocked by farmer so I had to walk to Br 125 to get to the village - but well worth the visit as it is lovely - the pub/restaurant looked good too.

Next day I went on to the lovely moorings after the ladder bridge below Wormleighton - with a lovely view of Napton. Soon after I was joined by boating friends Peter and I met in 2001 - Roy and Celia on Strange Magic. What happened to the day? - we chatted from coffee and cake time (thanks Celia), missed lunch and on to 9pm when we all decided we were starving. It is so nice to catch up with friends you haven't seen for a few years.

Next day Roy and Celia moved on and I walked into Wormleighton - what a lovely manorial village this is - well worth the long circular walk.

Now I was to cruise slowly on, stopping frequently to visit many villages as I went. I have made this trip many times before, but never slowly and exploring. Each way spending some money in Banbury!

Eventually, on Wednesday 29 April, I got to Lower Heyford, my pre-Crick goal. Decided to turn in the winding hole, south of the village. Mistake - as I winded, lost forward/backward motion and had to pole to bank. Had very slight power so limped back to Lower Heyford and rang RCR. They sent an engineer within 1/2 hour - from Oxfordshire Narrowboats - just the other side of the bridge! He changed throttle cable, then thought it was the lever, no it wasn't.

It wasn't until Saturday that the problem was resolved. Was it broken throttle cable or lever? In desperation I re-called RCR and they sent another engineer who said it was a WORN lever. Anyway he didn't have a replacement, so repaired it enough for me to have replaced later.

At least I was able to get down to Oxford by train on the Friday, as planned. It is handy having a dog who seems to enjoy public transport! Had a great day doing the Red Bus tour, lots of exploring (shame you cannot take dogs into colleges), plus a visit to Osney moorings (no-one here I know!) and then walked to Folly Bridge to sit by the lovely River Thames for an hour or so.

So on Sunday 3 May I set off northwards. Now it is cooler and breezy. I will be making the return journey faster as I have done all my exploring.

On Thursday it was pretty windy as I left Cropredy so decided to make it to Claydon Top Lock - 8 locks for me is quite a lot! Got to mooring in time for lunch - to find Karel and Susie on mv Daniel who I had seen on a few occasions since 2003, but never had a chance to chat - we made up for lost time!

Am now sitting out the very strong winds - watching boats struggle and bump past me - grateful that I am moored up. But the sun is shining and I can catch up on a few of those jobs.....

Grandchildren, Easter and Gone Cruising

2009-04-20T21:59:00.004+01:00

Just as winter mooring ends, two more grandchildren are due to be born. On Monday 30 March I took Kanbedun Again into Braunston Marina as planned - just 3 hours after Charlie was born - 6 days early. A lovely little brother for Edward and Thomas. I was able to visit Kent for a couple of days to have some cuddles with my lovely boys before dashing to Lancashire to be with my daughter and be a co-birthing partner with her husband. Louise was born about 36 hours later at 4.28 am on 5th April - her due date. This is my 7th grandchild - and they are all under 4 1/2! I stayed till mum and baby came home, and was then invited to stay on for Easter - I had made no plans as I needed to be flexible/available - and of course I was delighted to be able to stay longer.

On Bank Holiday Monday I returned to the boat, visiting boating friends in Rochdale on the way south. Tuesday I stocked up with groceries and returned the hire car - thank you Enterprise for getting me a car at such short notice! Wednesday pm service (really wish I had the confidence to do it myself) with Justin at Wharf Narrowboats before returning to my ex-winter mooring spot for ex-boating friends to visit.

On Saturday 18 April I started my summer cruise - at last! Went to Napton where I spent a couple of days in glorious weather and met up with new boaters on The Answer who I had met during the winter.

Escaped

2009-03-27T15:33:00.002Z

On 15 March decided to escape from my winter mooring. Actually to have a trip towards Napton whilst doing 2 wash loads. Inevitably got carried away and couldn't resist stopping the night at Fox's Gate, such a lovely spot and where you are likely to have the chance to chat with other boaters.

Returned to winter mooring the next day before Chris and Mary joined me for a few days. Very exciting, Mary's choir were singing at Coventry Cathedral so Chris and I sat in the congregation. The last time Mary and I were at a service here was a Palm Sunday service in either 1967 or 8 when we went with a youth club outing - only to have the huge angel fall off the roof during the service - we turned round and saw the whole glass back wall bowing in and out. Thought it was going to come down on us! Apparently, we have just found out, the builders forgot to put the pin in holding the angel in place! It was replaced by helicopter, as seen on the news at the time, but has now been replaced by a glass fibre replica.

In a couple of days time, as the winter mooring ends, Kanbedun Again will be going into Braunston Marina for 2/3 weeks to enable me to visit two new grandchildren due April 5th (in Lancashire) and 7th (in Kent). Well they are going to keep me busy for a while! After these exciting events I will be off cruising at last - Banbury then return for Crick Show - the first time for 2 years.

Sunday 15 February 2009

2009-02-15T14:51:00.003Z

Back on board for a week now after a 10 day visit to family in Kent and Sussex. This turned into 12 days as I got held up by 6" snow in Kent - this gave me the opportunity to go tobogganing with 2 of my grandchildren on lovely Southborough Common. Heard on the radio after that a number of casualities at A&E were middle aged people who had sledging accidents!

I then went to Suffolk for a further 5 days with boating friends/crew Chris and Mary and with them attended their late local Burns Night (I had been to one in Kent too!) plus accompanying them bellringing as usual. As I returned to boat it was snowing heavily and the line of 10 boats I walked past to mine were covered thickly - a lovely sight.

This week spending a lot of time with family history research which I started 10 years ago, now aided by my new laptop and mobile broadband - so much faster than via my phone!

Hello there

2009-02-05T15:57:00.000Z

Started blog