Star Lock at Stone

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.