tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72939779575391594412024-03-14T18:49:23.387+00:00Narrowboat ArmadilloThe peregrinations, both geographical and mental, of Graham & Jill on narrowboat Armadillo. It being a hodge-podge or gallimaufrey of travels, thoughts and frequently inaccurate facts.Graham and Jill Findlayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12056676757141689845noreply@blogger.comBlogger841125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7293977957539159441.post-87198193417782923512015-09-28T09:41:00.000+01:002015-09-28T09:41:21.091+01:00Moving on, at last.So the dental work is all finished and I now have a smile like a filmstar: Richard Kiel.<br />
We set out from Wigram's last Thursday and it has been travel alternating with watching the rugby since then. Don't mention Wales within my hearing.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_UCGmtwvIsDfBuFeR8lnzbEreGybono4UX_-M1mccyW8Vys0Rdhm6UYAFqI4nocmkEWNqRhx6DljmlXPWuXwjKiJ3OscJKHkC22aEUFcqO1AD10NQ3ZZMlUgyFLzioadGvn6ZZ1vtM902/s1600/IMG_0635.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_UCGmtwvIsDfBuFeR8lnzbEreGybono4UX_-M1mccyW8Vys0Rdhm6UYAFqI4nocmkEWNqRhx6DljmlXPWuXwjKiJ3OscJKHkC22aEUFcqO1AD10NQ3ZZMlUgyFLzioadGvn6ZZ1vtM902/s320/IMG_0635.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Saturday we left the top of Hillmorton Locks watched by what was, I am sure, an appreciative aerial audience.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieUovkqNx-K0neF5Tez4j_mF4kfDuIaWlpPXTkcCtKLPUkzBugiKczvqJu_UJX6PPhxNskX8DsEfO1l6qR2beBkLILU_wLrdMLh7ouBkqO-gYPivQ90P-YOeB2ohiMuuDphR_p9VrgJhco/s1600/IMG_0636.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieUovkqNx-K0neF5Tez4j_mF4kfDuIaWlpPXTkcCtKLPUkzBugiKczvqJu_UJX6PPhxNskX8DsEfO1l6qR2beBkLILU_wLrdMLh7ouBkqO-gYPivQ90P-YOeB2ohiMuuDphR_p9VrgJhco/s320/IMG_0636.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
I was the elected lock worker that day. We made it to just short of Sutton's Stop and moored for the rest of the day. Rugby, the game not the town, is rather in charge at the moment although we did make a brief stop at the town to top up the fridge at Tescos.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYboSTOlOwOnQpI7gNmFZn1R9Y8szytJe67C_N-Ojieh4aMvlTvv9wz8y18H-Iv1J3z5XtHAiYiSnOAbiE5m6pLfTxJfg5UiVCmrp2FWp-_veFkEhI4h7nDP9lIjxnXRrSsIz3SIw1IR_q/s1600/IMG_0641.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYboSTOlOwOnQpI7gNmFZn1R9Y8szytJe67C_N-Ojieh4aMvlTvv9wz8y18H-Iv1J3z5XtHAiYiSnOAbiE5m6pLfTxJfg5UiVCmrp2FWp-_veFkEhI4h7nDP9lIjxnXRrSsIz3SIw1IR_q/s320/IMG_0641.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Jill did well with this photo' yesterday, it shows how tight the 180 degree turn under the bridge really is. For those unfamiliar with the layout at Hawkesbury Junction that is the Oxford Canal coming from the right and the Coventry heading of on the left. We were heading off up the Coventry towards the Ashby Canal.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdYxqMTU0o3cMvpTvWzGbrxVOrctW1GNEbdl0sW3X4ioDjCZVqFqLGVf_MPGZORt-OEs_qZ2fefz3cCk6xdMwrk657rNHm8I8Tvq50FCS4xIErfN3fkksK-SZmqn-ygHIe1vvt92CBYcFF/s1600/IMG_0652.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdYxqMTU0o3cMvpTvWzGbrxVOrctW1GNEbdl0sW3X4ioDjCZVqFqLGVf_MPGZORt-OEs_qZ2fefz3cCk6xdMwrk657rNHm8I8Tvq50FCS4xIErfN3fkksK-SZmqn-ygHIe1vvt92CBYcFF/s320/IMG_0652.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_nuJbb9fuWBHJ-Qol2-8cEgaYxc1_XDDLLimP6gnScqPOSKlBWWzQFC_VeRbpp4u6TcV9a8I0fL_u8bAwiDn2-TFepvp_G5-dC5oSAuFBD79sYVQKjLgKo20I0qGmV0_g9Q3-Fil69fF8/s1600/IMG_0654.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_nuJbb9fuWBHJ-Qol2-8cEgaYxc1_XDDLLimP6gnScqPOSKlBWWzQFC_VeRbpp4u6TcV9a8I0fL_u8bAwiDn2-TFepvp_G5-dC5oSAuFBD79sYVQKjLgKo20I0qGmV0_g9Q3-Fil69fF8/s320/IMG_0654.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
And at Marston Junction we turned off under the bridge and through the remains of the old stop lock and onto the Ashby. One day I will get through there without scraping the side.<br />
<br />
Watch this space...Graham and Jill Findlayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12056676757141689845noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7293977957539159441.post-26683929381573636282015-09-12T12:45:00.003+01:002015-09-12T12:45:44.703+01:00Prolonged absence.Sorry about the long absence. We are back in Wigrams and still awaiting my dental work to be finished. Unfortunately the mobile reception here is useless and I am unable to download pictures, the system just freezes when I try. Bear with me, I should be back up and running after the 24th. Mind you I don't suppose anyone has noticed our absence. :-)Graham and Jill Findlayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12056676757141689845noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7293977957539159441.post-76132121803935274512015-08-11T16:14:00.002+01:002015-08-13T09:17:38.955+01:00Just an update, we've been busy for the last weekWe are now recovering from a week with our two eldest grandsons,<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifHOrxVqQ5OQETJ8j-0_vI0HBU9N1Cw5G6-ZW7MZ62gLwiMXRzXXtTwy9GWwHD2qOCL6Mky-6w_w14vUebZay8Hf0Fx6CqmWwN5zYaLPWezRtPZgZLh4GmRz-wtTkNH3Al_-hX-kwa5Urc/s1600/IMG_0485.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifHOrxVqQ5OQETJ8j-0_vI0HBU9N1Cw5G6-ZW7MZ62gLwiMXRzXXtTwy9GWwHD2qOCL6Mky-6w_w14vUebZay8Hf0Fx6CqmWwN5zYaLPWezRtPZgZLh4GmRz-wtTkNH3Al_-hX-kwa5Urc/s320/IMG_0485.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Noah<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzakiq-fNmAoOdQuC80VmV7KtlA27sD3Itfbt4pa6kpKzJVOJcyqmY6PvfwY3hr5d11E3ShJm8KovzAhQTT_YTtIZGY5LMWa5WBRDujDXaX0Nc7UYy3Dj0NFMSCc8eC1BM8JPVqvEi4FDZ/s1600/IMG_0484.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzakiq-fNmAoOdQuC80VmV7KtlA27sD3Itfbt4pa6kpKzJVOJcyqmY6PvfwY3hr5d11E3ShJm8KovzAhQTT_YTtIZGY5LMWa5WBRDujDXaX0Nc7UYy3Dj0NFMSCc8eC1BM8JPVqvEi4FDZ/s320/IMG_0484.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
and Jonah.<br />
They have both been issued with windlasses and are becoming competent lock workers.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9z8vUyQRGldJrhw1omepFrJr6M_PVGYaaBCs4DcZvSRaSXTOgEmJgAq8kRs_nH_0LIEyxqbMgOLrKiJGNl0FJnCnf6aEdsq18HUZ69atZ1yoJ_DbTUFOvU8ER7s5RdI3Ubcrkd_967YFL/s1600/IMG_0476.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="261" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9z8vUyQRGldJrhw1omepFrJr6M_PVGYaaBCs4DcZvSRaSXTOgEmJgAq8kRs_nH_0LIEyxqbMgOLrKiJGNl0FJnCnf6aEdsq18HUZ69atZ1yoJ_DbTUFOvU8ER7s5RdI3Ubcrkd_967YFL/s320/IMG_0476.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Just before they joined us it was the night of the celebrated "Blue Moon", and always willing to play with my new camera I zoomed in. Not a trace of blue. What a swizz.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKw0-as9ESVZKqXdxKpMhbenPziIFNXCoA_2LMD4uIRac7TQmxWUHaXzyRkTHSODNtJfkMOrxpzYgIZxMWc1z0-9ZO3QKXwozWKpFIcM34bGAKBJA_kCf41ms-aOMwu_6aEAWiebW635jX/s1600/IMG_0481.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKw0-as9ESVZKqXdxKpMhbenPziIFNXCoA_2LMD4uIRac7TQmxWUHaXzyRkTHSODNtJfkMOrxpzYgIZxMWc1z0-9ZO3QKXwozWKpFIcM34bGAKBJA_kCf41ms-aOMwu_6aEAWiebW635jX/s320/IMG_0481.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
We headed south on the Oxford,stopping overnight by bridge 102 and next day we set off, passing Napton with its prominent windmill<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVSq5WIngoc6ZqtkCMBZS_4CQKMJikMtiSiyTKh-WI_KAxGpZgNReN6zIQoX-hP6YuAkgooNY-ofTXfxjpE2BAPQm8CQdrLNuVpseCpuy7fJu91MYA2eu5t0WcvbmJ2QJ_f7RNwETq1qVC/s1600/IMG_0491.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVSq5WIngoc6ZqtkCMBZS_4CQKMJikMtiSiyTKh-WI_KAxGpZgNReN6zIQoX-hP6YuAkgooNY-ofTXfxjpE2BAPQm8CQdrLNuVpseCpuy7fJu91MYA2eu5t0WcvbmJ2QJ_f7RNwETq1qVC/s320/IMG_0491.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
With two willing helpers we had soon reached the top of a rather busy Napton flight and as usual, on that awkward angled exit from the top lock, it was blowing half a gale. A flukey gap between gusts enabled us to get out, escaping the ignominy of being pinned against the far bank, a fate I have seen befall many a boater.<br />
It was only whilst coming up the flight that we realised we had made a miscalculation. Next weekend is Fairport Convention at Cropredy and the number of boats was building.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgyJB6-gmbT4btVYnFWWQOVWjWYFdLM7HGN5mvNKmTncSVDwOmNSvnogdGaOTtWFjJVR9WhLE1SmDNoFnO0KwlNRba2aWRFSjYAUenlGQY6f3rUMADIzS_cwx1RtNbSePoyD1YO3hDJ4JP/s1600/IMG_0492.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgyJB6-gmbT4btVYnFWWQOVWjWYFdLM7HGN5mvNKmTncSVDwOmNSvnogdGaOTtWFjJVR9WhLE1SmDNoFnO0KwlNRba2aWRFSjYAUenlGQY6f3rUMADIzS_cwx1RtNbSePoyD1YO3hDJ4JP/s320/IMG_0492.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
After a couple of days on the summit we joined the queue at Claydon locks.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeDF3SFRWDNV6Hf-YxStXgndV8RxTgVhkRBwY9TY4iNW8FDpFknpOVz_0XbcyqcJId7Gaxi6yFsOONttGubH02n93SG1_km_0-pgV_2QoabJ73VkPVXq7LbqshUTz_LzKntQ3XinJk2xBk/s1600/IMG_0505.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeDF3SFRWDNV6Hf-YxStXgndV8RxTgVhkRBwY9TY4iNW8FDpFknpOVz_0XbcyqcJId7Gaxi6yFsOONttGubH02n93SG1_km_0-pgV_2QoabJ73VkPVXq7LbqshUTz_LzKntQ3XinJk2xBk/s320/IMG_0505.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
After a night spent just above Varney's Lock we ran the gauntlet of Cropredy. What with threading our way through moored boats and keeping the boys amused this quick shot of the church was the only picture we got of Cropredy.<br />
We made it down to Banbury and moored in the park where we awoke next morning with a severe tilt on, for some reason the Banbury pound is dropping quite significantly overnight. A quick move down to the town moorings was undertaken where we enjoyed a couple of days amongst the frenzied shoppers in Castle Quay.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm-jwc8_V6mmbUuDNP2scw91_0_1Xu3noLe8YvT30gl-5NDwWks1nj9u9CuK4Q33QWZ3b5B5ihKfmdf3jBwHdy1nh_THqoDQ78Ip49sYuhhjJxVB5XBWnJk1E1Q7aDxVyYw6Vfnv3kJF1i/s1600/IMG_0507.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm-jwc8_V6mmbUuDNP2scw91_0_1Xu3noLe8YvT30gl-5NDwWks1nj9u9CuK4Q33QWZ3b5B5ihKfmdf3jBwHdy1nh_THqoDQ78Ip49sYuhhjJxVB5XBWnJk1E1Q7aDxVyYw6Vfnv3kJF1i/s320/IMG_0507.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
The fine lady on the white horse still seems to be having worries about the effectiveness of her underarm deodorant. .<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv4l3j1PI56IrQvu6q3KHA3p3iGtxMFoxCY_ukomlW-I9a-MqEwO1pAtltt-CWqKLHEa_gB3N-PlofZGVm31ge3wS6YUDX_kAdD_nZ3ITAa4OvQlB0A7T0u6JCloYHUMDosKYl9FZd530_/s1600/IMG_0508.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv4l3j1PI56IrQvu6q3KHA3p3iGtxMFoxCY_ukomlW-I9a-MqEwO1pAtltt-CWqKLHEa_gB3N-PlofZGVm31ge3wS6YUDX_kAdD_nZ3ITAa4OvQlB0A7T0u6JCloYHUMDosKYl9FZd530_/s320/IMG_0508.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifMgWwpiz2QcCnnhSSpySxgUP6vJyougv0anlvkggKLNUk0D33Uqpz75KYaCYwX9F2SG_yLgrTtAbG5pVNa-Zsa9pyR5uUUJ7EJTYCPtdVV_R6aqgtuu8v81Izr9iCbS716O598v8242kT/s1600/IMG_0509.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifMgWwpiz2QcCnnhSSpySxgUP6vJyougv0anlvkggKLNUk0D33Uqpz75KYaCYwX9F2SG_yLgrTtAbG5pVNa-Zsa9pyR5uUUJ7EJTYCPtdVV_R6aqgtuu8v81Izr9iCbS716O598v8242kT/s320/IMG_0509.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
NEWS FLASH; Seen at Banbury on Saturday. John Sergeant is obviously making another series of Barging Around Britain.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK71iivszsqsMjIQ11mC52dtqvZRj1vmS4tclp62xVt_pXuQsJcOfAwhrrgsyVPSlNVBSyQqHxEYI-9SdJ-Vqv_P2d0GrDTH9zef2NO4_aAmxUXSFMNZjRulY4ZKQjruKYP2LImxvhfrc1/s1600/IMG_0477.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK71iivszsqsMjIQ11mC52dtqvZRj1vmS4tclp62xVt_pXuQsJcOfAwhrrgsyVPSlNVBSyQqHxEYI-9SdJ-Vqv_P2d0GrDTH9zef2NO4_aAmxUXSFMNZjRulY4ZKQjruKYP2LImxvhfrc1/s320/IMG_0477.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
As well as lock working the two boys are becoming quite handy at the traditional naval game of Uckers. A game of skill, planning and deviousness plus various traditional insults.<br />
Well the boys went home on Sunday, Monday was spent housekeeping and victualling and today we have moved back to the bottom of Claydon. Next weekend we pick up the other grandsprogs for two weeks.<br />
<br />
Watch this space...Graham and Jill Findlayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12056676757141689845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7293977957539159441.post-80600592258419342812015-07-31T07:51:00.000+01:002015-07-31T07:52:44.503+01:00A bit about Barby.On Wednesday, the weather being slightly more clement, we accoutred ourselves in our walking shoes and set off for Barby.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiybrEKzRR6POFUHgrsawGHRCgk2dzP5Tew72nDQLVYayuSM2M0v_krJJFqUIwXTHjeZxpxtFUIBxmG8qGPJMYpRpw_tB00xcnCXbL5DoRmnXDZx22ujTkNbgogJnQi9XwF10GxQugb0FRA/s1600/IMG_0440.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiybrEKzRR6POFUHgrsawGHRCgk2dzP5Tew72nDQLVYayuSM2M0v_krJJFqUIwXTHjeZxpxtFUIBxmG8qGPJMYpRpw_tB00xcnCXbL5DoRmnXDZx22ujTkNbgogJnQi9XwF10GxQugb0FRA/s320/IMG_0440.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
At bridge 81 we left the towpath and struck off on the footpath up the hill.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs0BheK0fwTsAlZRkQwnu6Tjyibb7QMUUtGWtJpPMzf8ai8_33GQIPrysJ0bAvGlUTphx1UwHNcFcEVeQ_gwhmaz3hrXir3CBl_gevmZ5qAu__mVyY-R7hMLcgoKhbmlRnnalBKlEJ3OAQ/s1600/IMG_0395.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs0BheK0fwTsAlZRkQwnu6Tjyibb7QMUUtGWtJpPMzf8ai8_33GQIPrysJ0bAvGlUTphx1UwHNcFcEVeQ_gwhmaz3hrXir3CBl_gevmZ5qAu__mVyY-R7hMLcgoKhbmlRnnalBKlEJ3OAQ/s320/IMG_0395.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
If one can describe it as such.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB1wgbx5izGZSFIOHrYiWheaDehDWNsMNcOw8-GvCcOo1o7z5PQfvT_0GMo0czbwF_SoOiHjQzKlC0GslweifS35zn79KeAlGYOaCDfDMi6qgDSt5SVlhdwsLd-_fHVa5Dl-ryWTGHvmVE/s1600/IMG_0394.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB1wgbx5izGZSFIOHrYiWheaDehDWNsMNcOw8-GvCcOo1o7z5PQfvT_0GMo0czbwF_SoOiHjQzKlC0GslweifS35zn79KeAlGYOaCDfDMi6qgDSt5SVlhdwsLd-_fHVa5Dl-ryWTGHvmVE/s320/IMG_0394.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
It was well supplied with thistles of admirable proportions that leaned, triffid like, over the path.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1XJ-rp2irsvXiX2iPSl8YRf9aeKI1gwxU1J00JnyQwU8AxrwbUhdpemKar4c8a_B0Av1OkM9yE0L6UQm3l5L5v-JQ96NwksJgX2bFsckJ7a6eEX_DUpHTx2jFuj519gfEJB7e89pCJDhd/s1600/IMG_0398.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1XJ-rp2irsvXiX2iPSl8YRf9aeKI1gwxU1J00JnyQwU8AxrwbUhdpemKar4c8a_B0Av1OkM9yE0L6UQm3l5L5v-JQ96NwksJgX2bFsckJ7a6eEX_DUpHTx2jFuj519gfEJB7e89pCJDhd/s320/IMG_0398.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYiNakgcoqlJ3Y8kugd4ZMZEaGRFKmal_s8SGEqmrDbmAUNPIdkv-siPTEhvF-YC5tdKAw-0VMxhnFS64gKM5uscqpI5HxRhHj5v8fyJcfdtQL-xG_vwc6k37E_gAJGAFBn3c6_9Aa-R1d/s1600/IMG_0401.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYiNakgcoqlJ3Y8kugd4ZMZEaGRFKmal_s8SGEqmrDbmAUNPIdkv-siPTEhvF-YC5tdKAw-0VMxhnFS64gKM5uscqpI5HxRhHj5v8fyJcfdtQL-xG_vwc6k37E_gAJGAFBn3c6_9Aa-R1d/s320/IMG_0401.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
But if they seemed a nuisance to us they were a welcome resource to an array of insects. Lots of butterflies as well but the little devils wouldn't hang around long enough to have their images preserved for posterity.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEglw6ucQPwjG7fWC1leXsB7sHqjIIzK5VQklG6a8VYmvFVVpso_mxJXW66UNvYc89jj9FFUWQTozL0bymVmsuVGg0E4I_zYVlEWUZMJD4DjERykO24X7A3BHQ-gd8A2_j-d_tVdhY3_LU/s1600/IMG_0402.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEglw6ucQPwjG7fWC1leXsB7sHqjIIzK5VQklG6a8VYmvFVVpso_mxJXW66UNvYc89jj9FFUWQTozL0bymVmsuVGg0E4I_zYVlEWUZMJD4DjERykO24X7A3BHQ-gd8A2_j-d_tVdhY3_LU/s320/IMG_0402.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
It's a fair old hike up the hill but the views out over Warwickshire are well worth the effort.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAIys_2vj7_kSlW8n46m1h-DC90MFnDQWu8rXO5g-LJQTnqOy0OuiRTX_LY_hjChcWdwPNy6zgY1VifCJRSK-ymc-67_cfM-ntRpvE9EgNfQgaZ16MEnHiL2V2l_CqOG8bkn2w1Iwq-j33/s1600/IMG_0404.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAIys_2vj7_kSlW8n46m1h-DC90MFnDQWu8rXO5g-LJQTnqOy0OuiRTX_LY_hjChcWdwPNy6zgY1VifCJRSK-ymc-67_cfM-ntRpvE9EgNfQgaZ16MEnHiL2V2l_CqOG8bkn2w1Iwq-j33/s320/IMG_0404.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg7t89BHzboO9wBhh-nxx1BvpDqcCpzmu1Yku7LjLoFl77ErWokXbdq9ZZSiUAuXcgCIsWXHJsCk-bmrMeGs5DYxBpszI2B_CLhJlaUQTPArNeQclfg8DhWlfdAs_2tXZPUfBqGdhuf5EY/s1600/IMG_0405.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg7t89BHzboO9wBhh-nxx1BvpDqcCpzmu1Yku7LjLoFl77ErWokXbdq9ZZSiUAuXcgCIsWXHJsCk-bmrMeGs5DYxBpszI2B_CLhJlaUQTPArNeQclfg8DhWlfdAs_2tXZPUfBqGdhuf5EY/s320/IMG_0405.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Despite the views we were glad to see the crossroads that marked the top of the hill.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjGiRgEYkq7xbuzD_5gB9nejZMVAXgy_nd6nUyekZFi0BLTaK2dsYu-84nzjKlJDSQM1Mau5F38uztPBN-foMUAdRqmIr01UvTq0F61bPqZOBSF_dvgKVH9m5SMRrDq04y33vpL3SkRyf7/s1600/IMG_0426.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjGiRgEYkq7xbuzD_5gB9nejZMVAXgy_nd6nUyekZFi0BLTaK2dsYu-84nzjKlJDSQM1Mau5F38uztPBN-foMUAdRqmIr01UvTq0F61bPqZOBSF_dvgKVH9m5SMRrDq04y33vpL3SkRyf7/s320/IMG_0426.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
There's not a lot to see in Barby, although the church is of noble proportions. Disappointingly the hands of the Victorian "restorers" lay heavily on the interior.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCaj_gRbFHRz40wVsMIqrAsX0-qATUHI1raCiEHVj3lwKSp7rUaHh1Z5AbEBK_VDpB8IEbEwT7_qg8HSKP7FmY_cTJx2EWBJIRzoUmUtrS9_9yscNPlwW2RqESqMfolJqFc2B2PfBhENGf/s1600/IMG_0423.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCaj_gRbFHRz40wVsMIqrAsX0-qATUHI1raCiEHVj3lwKSp7rUaHh1Z5AbEBK_VDpB8IEbEwT7_qg8HSKP7FmY_cTJx2EWBJIRzoUmUtrS9_9yscNPlwW2RqESqMfolJqFc2B2PfBhENGf/s320/IMG_0423.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Imposing but somehow lacking in character.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit1YmATCFd513cr167afgYiFf82AS1kmqW_Q55q4CxIyGVpjeJo9VMOVBowAPZzWNn-kMCchpeZIHzZGwp_5aMzmWPE0WCQEl6E6lo6S6WBXJopWEvYO2xqasZdMWBvMxfH4b3Q7kKMb29/s1600/IMG_0414.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit1YmATCFd513cr167afgYiFf82AS1kmqW_Q55q4CxIyGVpjeJo9VMOVBowAPZzWNn-kMCchpeZIHzZGwp_5aMzmWPE0WCQEl6E6lo6S6WBXJopWEvYO2xqasZdMWBvMxfH4b3Q7kKMb29/s320/IMG_0414.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Although one of the stalwarts of the congregation was kind enough to lift a trapdoor in the floor to disclose what is believed to be a Saxon grave marker. Local legend has it that a Saxon princess is interred beneath.<br />
Must mention that there is a shop in the village, not exactly handy for the canal but we did purchase an ice-cream apiece.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4EDZvqZtdk17uRtjOT0UWJLWM8-X8u2tUEGRtPqLvVMyPpJajmsuz59Vuk-HkyCoxOi_2DO5q5URf3D9AyyNa_8bfqcus6WjKrXdTz-GlUgwCdKMBcRcBvbv1rAHlxfkFLMdU5_ke4xsK/s1600/IMG_0435.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4EDZvqZtdk17uRtjOT0UWJLWM8-X8u2tUEGRtPqLvVMyPpJajmsuz59Vuk-HkyCoxOi_2DO5q5URf3D9AyyNa_8bfqcus6WjKrXdTz-GlUgwCdKMBcRcBvbv1rAHlxfkFLMdU5_ke4xsK/s320/IMG_0435.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
The return journey to the canal is down a back lane and then a track to bridge 79.<br />
Yesterday we moved up to the top of Hillmorton and today we will do the short hop to Rugby. Then it is preparation for the arrival of the grandsprogs.<br />
<br />
Watch this space...Graham and Jill Findlayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12056676757141689845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7293977957539159441.post-51352401410918284142015-07-28T11:03:00.000+01:002015-07-28T11:03:30.081+01:00Unusual sight at Braunston.Weatherwise Sunday was a rerun of Friday but Monday dawned grey and windy, at least it wasn't chucking it down.<br />
Next Sunday we have two of the grandsprogs arriving for the week so we are now heading for Rugby. Good place to top up the victualling stores and Brownsover Park is convenient for picking up prospective crew members.<br />
We had programmed a stop at Braunston for water into our itinerary but on approaching the turn it was obvious that the waterpoint was in use so we took a quick right and headed for the other point by the old junction house. To our amazement we were greeted by a sight we had not seen before;<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyV8wfb6FfvsDLYwlu3txD1KCHaCKzrTQbS2bitd3_CLIoEYj5t96B5LBMqd9lAXkZkj_m4CJ2SqY7_wXKUf7C-b1gtLiAHDaNt3atSFn8ajZKFb8s3Wbxch-Nz39WNrwyaBmFwU44IHm7/s1600/IMG_0379.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyV8wfb6FfvsDLYwlu3txD1KCHaCKzrTQbS2bitd3_CLIoEYj5t96B5LBMqd9lAXkZkj_m4CJ2SqY7_wXKUf7C-b1gtLiAHDaNt3atSFn8ajZKFb8s3Wbxch-Nz39WNrwyaBmFwU44IHm7/s320/IMG_0379.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
the forty-eight hour moorings were devoid of moored boats, in fact between the turn and Butcher's Bridge there were only three boats moored towpath side.<br />
Having watered and ditched the gash we winded and headed north,<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzKmUg8wVSuvj_Hklz3sxCbJlqqEUI_Z4-8ggbtFuwyZKRpugk7xFrETLq4vs97j-70fjZACKDekdQXHY1kFNE4JDUuLpnGj6S4Egx5E41HzKvOMOF_RqlI4WsdT4TNWWZw8AF1qL-zWVK/s1600/IMG_0383.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzKmUg8wVSuvj_Hklz3sxCbJlqqEUI_Z4-8ggbtFuwyZKRpugk7xFrETLq4vs97j-70fjZACKDekdQXHY1kFNE4JDUuLpnGj6S4Egx5E41HzKvOMOF_RqlI4WsdT4TNWWZw8AF1qL-zWVK/s320/IMG_0383.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
back past the Horseley Ironworks bridges over Braunston Turn.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9cfQYWWuTINsjXH9MV7jCwIxujTDxT3snLYSRCt5Qv_KS5ODZyimIKc9CV5ncmPp8myO9-92g2o3u6gc94-VU-JNbgAYX0aHpKj2O5QTBd6kuvNFlC03HK7IWaJENwWUHOgpE4EFACf6_/s1600/IMG_0386.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9cfQYWWuTINsjXH9MV7jCwIxujTDxT3snLYSRCt5Qv_KS5ODZyimIKc9CV5ncmPp8myO9-92g2o3u6gc94-VU-JNbgAYX0aHpKj2O5QTBd6kuvNFlC03HK7IWaJENwWUHOgpE4EFACf6_/s320/IMG_0386.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Even the fourteen day moorings were sparsely populated. I'll lay money that next time we decide to stop here it will be wall to wall boats.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil178PTduOVBAVDsKQaxRh86W8s4xn0nlsJQzzIUCo3rYzj-ksjcIVyt6DstbMoHIaQ6ALg8U1YGA69H-4kWH-yXgAO15kVVeeNoY7KsxpGpIyzmX0OmjWWx7upGP92WqcnYwNaFiYN8Uo/s1600/IMG_0391.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil178PTduOVBAVDsKQaxRh86W8s4xn0nlsJQzzIUCo3rYzj-ksjcIVyt6DstbMoHIaQ6ALg8U1YGA69H-4kWH-yXgAO15kVVeeNoY7KsxpGpIyzmX0OmjWWx7upGP92WqcnYwNaFiYN8Uo/s320/IMG_0391.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
I think we'll spend a few days here, girding our loins for next week.<br />
<br />
Watch this space...<br />
<br />Graham and Jill Findlayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12056676757141689845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7293977957539159441.post-4284432538777652412015-07-26T17:11:00.000+01:002015-07-27T07:47:14.279+01:00A stroll in Warwickshire.Having sat out Friday's rain between bridges 103 and 102, in the lee of Bush Hill, by Flecknoe,<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRqzWMrnwstyOD4lYiFWWQNOkcBNWbsQjyOz2-Ix7VF2_Iu9X3vGjvjdP55eT1LRse9AB-SN6S2y5KNpWl4dgyoxNJD-ELcQyxQtqPLn1EDir9lBTPgGEG_p1tufckJHHigHFJLD61flpl/s1600/IMG_0352.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRqzWMrnwstyOD4lYiFWWQNOkcBNWbsQjyOz2-Ix7VF2_Iu9X3vGjvjdP55eT1LRse9AB-SN6S2y5KNpWl4dgyoxNJD-ELcQyxQtqPLn1EDir9lBTPgGEG_p1tufckJHHigHFJLD61flpl/s320/IMG_0352.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Saturday morning dawned bright and clear with just a breeze to contend with. So, having broken our fast with an Arbroath smokie, we set of for a walk in almost summer warmth.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC6TXSxQURSJpCx0T4CpRi79c0Ms960tPLM51cG6VQWLDVl_meQUYfbYoxBSenvVVlC3sbcHldHy2Z2XKuP0gfR_R0ptzM5GQ0Hvh0sAsBQMJEMZBuStz7SKskHUmHmXNYQbR4Jj4868en/s1600/IMG_0348.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC6TXSxQURSJpCx0T4CpRi79c0Ms960tPLM51cG6VQWLDVl_meQUYfbYoxBSenvVVlC3sbcHldHy2Z2XKuP0gfR_R0ptzM5GQ0Hvh0sAsBQMJEMZBuStz7SKskHUmHmXNYQbR4Jj4868en/s320/IMG_0348.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
The blue sky had just a scattering of small clouds and in the shelter of the hedgerow we came across this gorgeous chap, or chapess.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHLDKEZji4q59Q3CLtPEpaAwx9n0Qs2VoqY_qDWqXhMYBy-hZuo9tjKo-N6xcefMEgkvWwZhAoM1XweveTQTt2uK9K6ChTGYJuanbi7pvvaVRh8PP5JCaN0DBw8o-RJ37b_ZkULxARFMtq/s1600/IMG_0350.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHLDKEZji4q59Q3CLtPEpaAwx9n0Qs2VoqY_qDWqXhMYBy-hZuo9tjKo-N6xcefMEgkvWwZhAoM1XweveTQTt2uK9K6ChTGYJuanbi7pvvaVRh8PP5JCaN0DBw8o-RJ37b_ZkULxARFMtq/s320/IMG_0350.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
We have seen very few damsel or dragon flies this summer, presumably due to the lack of heat.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8dm-FwzkSTI-53YVVWw3YYO4vJCn7qvD1B1Sex5Kn6SIci5xLCF84Th83if5eUs54TkJkoFS9kNnbQLjR2xVdh8h5ETHUWPnfR5oKLr5CijwVANQGFmNomtj1OowsF8Ba9e72FmabuaXg/s1600/IMG_0365.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8dm-FwzkSTI-53YVVWw3YYO4vJCn7qvD1B1Sex5Kn6SIci5xLCF84Th83if5eUs54TkJkoFS9kNnbQLjR2xVdh8h5ETHUWPnfR5oKLr5CijwVANQGFmNomtj1OowsF8Ba9e72FmabuaXg/s320/IMG_0365.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4fXglrO7l_zaZxe0oRXZcBEdAQuRxBn3vTwhmJRx4W0JGNbRZmlBRXxW54ClYj8Hc6Tq10-b9Eo-U0P5tFy0uqUyDn7HCyzYi09V9D-9DPm5icrZPc1MBq4EnESMesbljetB3HGuPNqq5/s1600/IMG_0366.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4fXglrO7l_zaZxe0oRXZcBEdAQuRxBn3vTwhmJRx4W0JGNbRZmlBRXxW54ClYj8Hc6Tq10-b9Eo-U0P5tFy0uqUyDn7HCyzYi09V9D-9DPm5icrZPc1MBq4EnESMesbljetB3HGuPNqq5/s320/IMG_0366.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Whilst on the natural history trail, anyone any idea what these rather large fungi might be? I am unable to find anything like them in our field guide to fungi. Could the cracked upper surface be due to the sudden large dousing they got on Friday?<br />
We walked down the towpath to Lower Shuckburgh and then took the lane up to the site of the old Flecknoe Station. This was on the same line as Braunston. Opened in 1895 by the London and North Western Railway, it survived until 1952 as a passenger station and until 1956 for goods. No trace remains of the station but the course of the line is still clearly visible.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicNTo0U4LQxjqNVpgh4N4YAHxg-_A0vZrPJWdhakU1ARIHtOB1O7NYWskUp2PICEoduRzLzi3miI4uNDnxA2TyOEVOKobtooMYZaHU79fdMnyfWJ0yDzy8ZDJV3WLRrB4HxhVm_Zci7PoN/s1600/IMG_0357.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicNTo0U4LQxjqNVpgh4N4YAHxg-_A0vZrPJWdhakU1ARIHtOB1O7NYWskUp2PICEoduRzLzi3miI4uNDnxA2TyOEVOKobtooMYZaHU79fdMnyfWJ0yDzy8ZDJV3WLRrB4HxhVm_Zci7PoN/s320/IMG_0357.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5oR4HOFRuAbRxcEnVz2J7xGZjtey2WiXsX1RsgNbSuhZh69Wk6vv-LqgWC5NR25OZZ0hlsSZBQ11qisdxHWm_dcin8tMkNidYLWpDBNoEbyLJnw6FsVvFK15Cux090AKL-70dIFJJz5fo/s1600/IMG_0358.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5oR4HOFRuAbRxcEnVz2J7xGZjtey2WiXsX1RsgNbSuhZh69Wk6vv-LqgWC5NR25OZZ0hlsSZBQ11qisdxHWm_dcin8tMkNidYLWpDBNoEbyLJnw6FsVvFK15Cux090AKL-70dIFJJz5fo/s320/IMG_0358.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Viewed from either side of the bridge that still carries the lane across the old line.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibjqmZ1R7CmUv6jtnVYJFMXsWVNQRT8SnLHFIK1xaLfRt-eV6zCUgPLXROi2nJTwMhSbptKKIv2-KVBLujc3WsyRmDWBUaqzvNadCnENlvlKxoIg1h0tVa66xLLJpj8-9pycXPGIqA568e/s1600/IMG_0363.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibjqmZ1R7CmUv6jtnVYJFMXsWVNQRT8SnLHFIK1xaLfRt-eV6zCUgPLXROi2nJTwMhSbptKKIv2-KVBLujc3WsyRmDWBUaqzvNadCnENlvlKxoIg1h0tVa66xLLJpj8-9pycXPGIqA568e/s320/IMG_0363.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
One of the coping stones of the bridge, Joseph Hamblet's brickworks specialised in blue engineering bricks and was active from 1851 until 1915.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQFCjH4cFesfFWmb7nOmitHQfsdHs2E7xU2DZzb6qh5bkne3O66vbQWKkIJjCHpRn6In66lEtUsjFqQDhlLQOwzbDdOiKq6_php4wKV3QHYvRUZ0OuN1tGhdNutypWkvwWTC9SkUD0Ncgb/s1600/IMG_0360.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQFCjH4cFesfFWmb7nOmitHQfsdHs2E7xU2DZzb6qh5bkne3O66vbQWKkIJjCHpRn6In66lEtUsjFqQDhlLQOwzbDdOiKq6_php4wKV3QHYvRUZ0OuN1tGhdNutypWkvwWTC9SkUD0Ncgb/s320/IMG_0360.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
In the far distance Braunston Church and the old windmill were just visible.<br />
Like many country stations Flecknoe's was about a mile and a half from the village but we set off in that direction and having crossed the canal and climbed the hill we found<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0BpjKFawl1YL8wMJTO9XPbAyUfunMUI5AElWEkjASN5nSqRUy85IM3e-sebqmHa1lsKFBzbqbguRHgJoMHDimq8MpJewQuFsrkysZyKy0W7Xb1Arr0FkYBHntDyCO2gUXOl5uKoo2VLdq/s1600/IMG_0368.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0BpjKFawl1YL8wMJTO9XPbAyUfunMUI5AElWEkjASN5nSqRUy85IM3e-sebqmHa1lsKFBzbqbguRHgJoMHDimq8MpJewQuFsrkysZyKy0W7Xb1Arr0FkYBHntDyCO2gUXOl5uKoo2VLdq/s320/IMG_0368.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
the Old Olive Bush where we enjoyed a light lunch, just a cheese and onion roll. Jill contented herself with orange juice and I was delighted to find they had Poachers Pocket from the Church End brewery.<br />
<br />
Watch this space...<br />
<br />
<br />Graham and Jill Findlayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12056676757141689845noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7293977957539159441.post-47378368631963998142015-07-24T11:14:00.002+01:002015-07-24T11:15:54.890+01:00A little known canal. I don't think W.R.G. have much hope here.Can there be anything more tedious than being stuck in a marina? Especially when the reason for being there is a need of dental treatment. Then finding out that the dentist's booking system has cocked up and the whole lot has had to be put off really puts the tin hat on it. Back there in October, oh gloom.<br />
But we did take the opportunity to nip off down to Plymouth for a weekend.<br />
Now Plymouth is noted for many things nautical but in general canals are not part of the tourist route in that fine city. But interestingly "Nettleton's Guide to Plymouth, Stonehouse, Devonport and to the neighbouring country", published 1836, has a description of a canal in the dockyard, it is described as being, "Nearly sixty feet wide, and 820 feet long, at the end of which are the boat house pond, (about 80 feet wide, and 360 feet long), slips and sheds." It was crossed by a wooden swing bridge. If it is the one I am thinking of it runs between the frigate complex and Ferry Rd. Not much of a canal but there is one of rather more interest, in Plymbridge Woods runs the Cann Quarry Canal.<br />
A family walk on the Saturday took us to Plymbridge and much of our stroll took us along the side of it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn4ysnARoEYd5IQOr79zZtepxgsvdgrGC7chNTayfW-ezCofZpbAen-bNdIpVmTDj9Z9xKHidAVaxbdJGqhKF4dM-h3p4yqXRsNO-QzISEtdA33mNLZxHlW38FwE4CNTCmswPQ_Ax686I/s1600/IMG_0282.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn4ysnARoEYd5IQOr79zZtepxgsvdgrGC7chNTayfW-ezCofZpbAen-bNdIpVmTDj9Z9xKHidAVaxbdJGqhKF4dM-h3p4yqXRsNO-QzISEtdA33mNLZxHlW38FwE4CNTCmswPQ_Ax686I/s320/IMG_0282.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
It opened in 1829, is about two miles long, and was built to carry slate from Cann Quarry down to Marsh Mills. It was a tub boat canal taking its water from a weir on the River Plym just above the quarry. The weir is still there but unfortunately we didn't have time to walk the full length. The loaded boats were floated down on the current and presumably hauled empty back by horses.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmvsRQ2b0grUT9HCP5Xc3VFDOFAOtya9W9ZmiCtqmuI-_rdIKH6lv9aNXtvyy4FDscuXY_VwUNtj_fqEFi28TrLLUE0FFAj0Nt8xnDE3y6842qCG-hC-UVGOa8tbjNFferRxiu2VFSjbA/s1600/IMG_0306.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmvsRQ2b0grUT9HCP5Xc3VFDOFAOtya9W9ZmiCtqmuI-_rdIKH6lv9aNXtvyy4FDscuXY_VwUNtj_fqEFi28TrLLUE0FFAj0Nt8xnDE3y6842qCG-hC-UVGOa8tbjNFferRxiu2VFSjbA/s320/IMG_0306.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
It still holds water in some stretches. It was only in use for about ten years and then a branch from the Plymouth and Dartmoor horse tramway which ran down from Princetown, was built from near Marsh Mills to the quarry. The canal then was used as a mill leat for the mills at Marsh Mills. In the quarry itself the water was used to drive stone saws and other quarry machinery and later to generate electricity. The remains of the wheel can still be seen in the old buildings.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV6EPL3eesXZJqX5Fu6JxQPATnruqNafQ8GI6pW7_pSvoXAHJM4kp146-f16kTY-RpsYp8Axwhz-hECSlVshxoBCHAVSO7CS6hnWD2Eckf0YN0HfYvMhytPR-vDfEkV1tKHw6l4-DNSvA/s1600/IMG_0292.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV6EPL3eesXZJqX5Fu6JxQPATnruqNafQ8GI6pW7_pSvoXAHJM4kp146-f16kTY-RpsYp8Axwhz-hECSlVshxoBCHAVSO7CS6hnWD2Eckf0YN0HfYvMhytPR-vDfEkV1tKHw6l4-DNSvA/s320/IMG_0292.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXmaPfy4g0EBi8-_xclmNwMwn9f0dLY_swkZUkNzNmJs4QDLQ5tffXlPzNfnL9gDNYMBjCD58i44tHpWGVhCbN-o1MR8PfrGdHcQLU_Rkp41NZ_GcrlfToju1CilPbpl1QU2zj4VMJHlw/s1600/IMG_0298.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXmaPfy4g0EBi8-_xclmNwMwn9f0dLY_swkZUkNzNmJs4QDLQ5tffXlPzNfnL9gDNYMBjCD58i44tHpWGVhCbN-o1MR8PfrGdHcQLU_Rkp41NZ_GcrlfToju1CilPbpl1QU2zj4VMJHlw/s320/IMG_0298.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWx76v3Ml7iwhHxGiu5aaEr9HCzs789QYzZSp6_x87Wc_FXd5JeAj9kExpYHeF3gU_PaoZ79CovZYtzawvP76tZ1HYoSzAtDKbqA-o8OEFPtSWoiMlPoXLKcEy2PzdxMwwZMr7lDstS4s/s1600/IMG_0299.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWx76v3Ml7iwhHxGiu5aaEr9HCzs789QYzZSp6_x87Wc_FXd5JeAj9kExpYHeF3gU_PaoZ79CovZYtzawvP76tZ1HYoSzAtDKbqA-o8OEFPtSWoiMlPoXLKcEy2PzdxMwwZMr7lDstS4s/s320/IMG_0299.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
At Plymbridge it tunnels under the old turnpike road that ran from Plymouth to Plympton, long before the A38.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiboIPW1mW_Ujzyacqth6BEWaTt_UZP96NqQ1YcjKe7CqKP5KK81cckF3Tk2ljLDtNIMq6I6juxhyphenhyphenODidG4LOMTkYwNmht0uqs7mNlEE3SqsN7HQ9aaxcQk8gQyVw7aYKEGDmLOBycbAdc/s1600/IMG_0284.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiboIPW1mW_Ujzyacqth6BEWaTt_UZP96NqQ1YcjKe7CqKP5KK81cckF3Tk2ljLDtNIMq6I6juxhyphenhyphenODidG4LOMTkYwNmht0uqs7mNlEE3SqsN7HQ9aaxcQk8gQyVw7aYKEGDmLOBycbAdc/s320/IMG_0284.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
One of the old water control sluices, it made a fine spot in which a small boy could get grubby.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlQ_7xgP1dbqzljJvZQU8zyikRMx6clhP_brNEN-Vu5WX5OdWUh8DTGRtSf_cwlntwOHfQvqRZQl-t6J_2yTMOFjjU2prqwWYCft5v9AkSC8zaOvgdeVPF4hEdxR9vMU2wRFXHVlmupWI/s1600/IMG_0314.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlQ_7xgP1dbqzljJvZQU8zyikRMx6clhP_brNEN-Vu5WX5OdWUh8DTGRtSf_cwlntwOHfQvqRZQl-t6J_2yTMOFjjU2prqwWYCft5v9AkSC8zaOvgdeVPF4hEdxR9vMU2wRFXHVlmupWI/s320/IMG_0314.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL5xBACVa02_1AGGMnVRlxEgndceVrQ38Acmgqfnh6jUBqgsPF1uPeCIXGob84tLGOe2lpXKkAojmCXLTnGRC_ENSnihoynzUXxtOa8-juU1hkbLhbU2RKxtI9TNa8NjpkCr-lLHOra9A/s1600/IMG_0315.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL5xBACVa02_1AGGMnVRlxEgndceVrQ38Acmgqfnh6jUBqgsPF1uPeCIXGob84tLGOe2lpXKkAojmCXLTnGRC_ENSnihoynzUXxtOa8-juU1hkbLhbU2RKxtI9TNa8NjpkCr-lLHOra9A/s320/IMG_0315.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
The various fallen tree make a fine, if challenging, climbing frame.<br />
<br />
Watch this space...Graham and Jill Findlayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12056676757141689845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7293977957539159441.post-89310436870700022832015-07-11T10:32:00.001+01:002015-07-11T10:34:40.092+01:00Ducks and a poem, including notes on Old English.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6CLHHTMeqUPr0eFV_f38wXNSrSh_ry4mNtv2dU2Ov5BzGE_u3QZVpTy4mdsKBB0acACJk1CSuZNKSqt7LHpnd0MvEpnOQjzqyb4jQCFJ3dbhS74mT8Hqvu_rc8r6-IZW2wLB13RIBQL4/s1600/IMG_0261.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6CLHHTMeqUPr0eFV_f38wXNSrSh_ry4mNtv2dU2Ov5BzGE_u3QZVpTy4mdsKBB0acACJk1CSuZNKSqt7LHpnd0MvEpnOQjzqyb4jQCFJ3dbhS74mT8Hqvu_rc8r6-IZW2wLB13RIBQL4/s320/IMG_0261.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
On our last day on the G.U. we passed steam tug Adamant. She's definitely an impressive looking beast. Actually she is a replica of a steam tunnel tug, the hull is made from the stern ends of two B.N.C. "Joey" boats with a new cabin and counter. The steam plant is a Cochrane of Birkenhead two cylinder compound from the end of the 19thC. The boiler is of the vertical fire tube type built in 1986.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgssbpbu2AQxLV5e3Qi3N_JN0b0AjAa2JOZnlDdTS5ilt2JwOUUZthorNeO7MHH_Z-Ionhg0eO04ucxgFX6YdOJbsBTOdwn4LeV4mEW-uZNmrkxx0fRw8PLnkTax6EWC8InpDHWyHmOZLU/s1600/IMG_0263.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgssbpbu2AQxLV5e3Qi3N_JN0b0AjAa2JOZnlDdTS5ilt2JwOUUZthorNeO7MHH_Z-Ionhg0eO04ucxgFX6YdOJbsBTOdwn4LeV4mEW-uZNmrkxx0fRw8PLnkTax6EWC8InpDHWyHmOZLU/s320/IMG_0263.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
After negotiating Wigram's Turn we moored out in the country near Flecknoe for the weekend.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiatfv5TkyeqmLTISGowStbzAqhTtQ43SEsgBro4IMRGbhNODgrRnNapHrkleb29feTM6h6HeEh-heT3BWO3_dXcxk2MiHCcb6M3ezjqPkP4SdDCnjFGkK3JKUJWikKXDaN1fzupYmus4/s1600/IMG_0267.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiatfv5TkyeqmLTISGowStbzAqhTtQ43SEsgBro4IMRGbhNODgrRnNapHrkleb29feTM6h6HeEh-heT3BWO3_dXcxk2MiHCcb6M3ezjqPkP4SdDCnjFGkK3JKUJWikKXDaN1fzupYmus4/s320/IMG_0267.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Lovely moorings but absolutely no 'phone signal and therefore no internet. I'm getting as bad as the kids, no mobile and I start twitching, missing my daily dose of Facebook etc.<br />
The stretch of G.U./Oxford between Wigrams and Braunston Turn must be the busiest on the system, a continual stream of boats all weekend.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSYBKhZBI8TqeGkdKxstWQHCMCzFazIQj83LZVEGmlArJ3vBVyFaX7L0XINGIwF6_d7y1iIOFMzSPE71pWKIYIe0X92qRzey6yr08w07eGPgUB9nsn9CiLWg8r8YyIu7gL8CzZf305-f8/s1600/IMG_0265.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSYBKhZBI8TqeGkdKxstWQHCMCzFazIQj83LZVEGmlArJ3vBVyFaX7L0XINGIwF6_d7y1iIOFMzSPE71pWKIYIe0X92qRzey6yr08w07eGPgUB9nsn9CiLWg8r8YyIu7gL8CzZf305-f8/s320/IMG_0265.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh80JKIig1PzI8bRCW_jauA5OHIg6ww9UHnkRPdSSZKrpGCL5J20DQN80hyphenhyphenzU9QeTsHEJkIeOe1xeEZgRf8cEUmJvbvszHKW4RXpVW7gM3t1KY_-0X91M8Ikl0aHPU82uMUuzOe3PqrHCc/s1600/IMG_0266.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh80JKIig1PzI8bRCW_jauA5OHIg6ww9UHnkRPdSSZKrpGCL5J20DQN80hyphenhyphenzU9QeTsHEJkIeOe1xeEZgRf8cEUmJvbvszHKW4RXpVW7gM3t1KY_-0X91M8Ikl0aHPU82uMUuzOe3PqrHCc/s320/IMG_0266.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Didn't seem to put this little family of though, every time we poked our heads out of the side hatch they headed for us like miniature speed boats. Sorry kids, no bread, it's not good for you. they did love Rice Krispies though.<br />
On Monday we managed, by dint of standing on the roof, to raise enough signal to contact the local dentist, both of us being in need of dental sorting, and fix up an appointment. So we moved down to Wigram's Turn Marina, expecting to stay for a few days. It turns out that the course of treatment is going to last for several weeks, usual routine, a succession of appointments. So it looks like we will be here for a while.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZwQJ64ecnG-KVT6eWFlPGfao4z2kv2gxTUhkrDQCfZg2kmehjcqij7QwPa5M6HYfMOapaqGXF1CYaX5yzOC8LFG5j6WaA8psOeKS_y8EA-gGYDStosR5VDAoXaMprGcVAPk_LT1u-QZk/s1600/IMG_0268.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZwQJ64ecnG-KVT6eWFlPGfao4z2kv2gxTUhkrDQCfZg2kmehjcqij7QwPa5M6HYfMOapaqGXF1CYaX5yzOC8LFG5j6WaA8psOeKS_y8EA-gGYDStosR5VDAoXaMprGcVAPk_LT1u-QZk/s320/IMG_0268.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqN6mlnA7LeNrM9HYotZ8xE6Jy1r6JHbFToKL9oj2uakbMMYlVZ52JYfBV7KttNeW_46OLoyWE6abJQli9c9ots7Qqn99t9K-60gb6ERN3ptVu839pvdsaaACze5STCmkoyQjh9iASu3Q/s1600/IMG_0269.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqN6mlnA7LeNrM9HYotZ8xE6Jy1r6JHbFToKL9oj2uakbMMYlVZ52JYfBV7KttNeW_46OLoyWE6abJQli9c9ots7Qqn99t9K-60gb6ERN3ptVu839pvdsaaACze5STCmkoyQjh9iASu3Q/s320/IMG_0269.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Amongst the surfeit of Mallards around the marina we have a Tufted Duck and her solitary duckling, it really is the scruffiest looking duckling we've ever seen.<br />
Yesterday, whilst shopping in Southam we purchased some eggs, described on the carton as "Happy Eggs", which gave me pause for thought and, from some deep recess of the mind, there sprang a poem, possibly written by Chaucer.<br />
<br />
"How sad <i>y</i>e life of <i>y</i>e new laid egg,<br />
His fate is dark and dire.<br />
For he cometh out of the frying pan<br />
And goeth into <i>y</i>e fryer."<br />
<br />
It should be noted that "<i>y</i>" is not a Y but actually "Thorn" an Old English character pronounced as "th".<br />
<br />
Watch this space...<br />
<br />
<br />Graham and Jill Findlayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12056676757141689845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7293977957539159441.post-978856387764425242015-07-02T19:39:00.001+01:002015-07-02T19:39:27.000+01:00Long Itchington plus a pirate ship.Long Itchington has always been one of those places we pass through without bothering to actually walk up to the village. This time we decided that we would make the effort.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0NA5C49mTeG6VMvDzcKV3FEbDV8Zjw8-yRwQt8_dJhHk5YbcXw5YztE35_jklEZHrClY-CRTMgla7nMfFTG81ZvUiuwlXjAKuy9WtlnC1VsgybJ06tphRioXuJSq-kxOsR-7VleT9T5U/s1600/IMG_0220.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0NA5C49mTeG6VMvDzcKV3FEbDV8Zjw8-yRwQt8_dJhHk5YbcXw5YztE35_jklEZHrClY-CRTMgla7nMfFTG81ZvUiuwlXjAKuy9WtlnC1VsgybJ06tphRioXuJSq-kxOsR-7VleT9T5U/s320/IMG_0220.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXPTY0gD1kniyI52H-dNXTltojsIfB1Z470-fWepg8vwm0FzM2eiq336S4z6MJgEovwlgaonC_SCHQnonD8xOak39Kx063f1gh8ryrjQXhtI5LZEvx_-hZI2pwyqMZC-_oo4XOSOwTedg/s1600/IMG_0225.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXPTY0gD1kniyI52H-dNXTltojsIfB1Z470-fWepg8vwm0FzM2eiq336S4z6MJgEovwlgaonC_SCHQnonD8xOak39Kx063f1gh8ryrjQXhtI5LZEvx_-hZI2pwyqMZC-_oo4XOSOwTedg/s320/IMG_0225.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
On the hottest July day on record we found some rather nice half-timbered buildings<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSUfOcrOkDrq-U6EQxhheqybRVvR1PifyNYa2_jvvTVgJ9YdG0t7yi18JMwJa-cPMtMHL-ovq3ipT4yNXGVwwU5JHfREYJcbaM_2TtH08yCQrscVtHYfHkW9VjlUU_VRd05wAZ5zPvV88/s1600/IMG_0223.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSUfOcrOkDrq-U6EQxhheqybRVvR1PifyNYa2_jvvTVgJ9YdG0t7yi18JMwJa-cPMtMHL-ovq3ipT4yNXGVwwU5JHfREYJcbaM_2TtH08yCQrscVtHYfHkW9VjlUU_VRd05wAZ5zPvV88/s320/IMG_0223.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
and a rather more modern one that sported a rather interesting English Heritage blue plaque.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDgUCLmkBbSF_0dbpw56H4gFDG6BRWbpyzEeVZhsEBcRfZd4fO8NBzoiyr4NKPov3csYHTPbh0VNjRsWUYwn09QYHz-2skosjzoehhEUhyM5fIjaPNzL482SIvC3BiVsjAaVOH1cyZpag/s1600/IMG_0224.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDgUCLmkBbSF_0dbpw56H4gFDG6BRWbpyzEeVZhsEBcRfZd4fO8NBzoiyr4NKPov3csYHTPbh0VNjRsWUYwn09QYHz-2skosjzoehhEUhyM5fIjaPNzL482SIvC3BiVsjAaVOH1cyZpag/s320/IMG_0224.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Hmmm!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ybUm8e3RJj3iyQWfZY1vfA2O72Y7AyCvvLWpX9K8MQ4uSiKqfEEFdS9gsiZjcObADypajDNMs4l9QSAl2ZVqvabOQa-cfTSw1d-Y0YACcQ7u_tiGSog0dA0oFrwDVYZbW6dS5ieEdY8/s1600/IMG_0226.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ybUm8e3RJj3iyQWfZY1vfA2O72Y7AyCvvLWpX9K8MQ4uSiKqfEEFdS9gsiZjcObADypajDNMs4l9QSAl2ZVqvabOQa-cfTSw1d-Y0YACcQ7u_tiGSog0dA0oFrwDVYZbW6dS5ieEdY8/s320/IMG_0226.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
The church proved to be the only cool spot on a sweltering day.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWhdpAslDTv8OEGyMgY5-6LVmQ11J30RbaCrP7uTLqH2xORWAEt5r7xfevSgwvSneiyq6NxWDMstFfCMPp4UOkBknFtJaV1IlX00Rfxr93zf3R7fX_wKkVAircB32B0ZwtVNInBf6IJes/s1600/IMG_0232.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWhdpAslDTv8OEGyMgY5-6LVmQ11J30RbaCrP7uTLqH2xORWAEt5r7xfevSgwvSneiyq6NxWDMstFfCMPp4UOkBknFtJaV1IlX00Rfxr93zf3R7fX_wKkVAircB32B0ZwtVNInBf6IJes/s320/IMG_0232.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Boards like this, detailing charitable donations left in a will are not unusual in churches but the donations recorded on this one were a bit different to the usual cash gift. Both Elizabeth and Edmond had left one share in the Warwick and Birmingham Canal, the dividends from which were to go to the trustees of the Long Itchington charity school to support the school. Sorry about the reflection on the board. It was right next to a window and was catching the light.<br />
Just by the church there is a rather fine old pub, The Harvester. We partook of a refreshing pint in this most friendly hostelry and having perused the menu decided to return in the evening for dinner. It was a good decision. The Fillet Steak Rossini was amazing and Jill says her Sirloin Chasseur was equally good. So if you are ever feeling peckish in Long Itchington that is the place to head for. Good beer as well.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYdN9edqQ50fW47Sv9cha54eTS_2sdXzirmGOyopU1agLSQN17DJv18Ldl7lUqoq2IYdy3brZZOW-FecjXJoCtRQFv87PmjPFRj65ZtEUiF7eTvyYbf48MZcKY1Bs3cqg1HreUSJVgCzY/s1600/IMG_0239.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYdN9edqQ50fW47Sv9cha54eTS_2sdXzirmGOyopU1agLSQN17DJv18Ldl7lUqoq2IYdy3brZZOW-FecjXJoCtRQFv87PmjPFRj65ZtEUiF7eTvyYbf48MZcKY1Bs3cqg1HreUSJVgCzY/s320/IMG_0239.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Jill's latest cross stitch. Another masterpiece. One day we will get them framed although I don't think we have enough wall space to display them all.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheLDTkMYFy4BKoM_uzC_IhneRR3cVtGm72zJQaZ_aRXYeT_43leojxVJZS8IYaWdq_Yij445olzb2FlzHjpNKMrg8CWS04cHiqZRCvkHXjiSBxVzEmruG_YKaTMmPRKCwGGu3klKO3rmY/s1600/IMG_0240.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheLDTkMYFy4BKoM_uzC_IhneRR3cVtGm72zJQaZ_aRXYeT_43leojxVJZS8IYaWdq_Yij445olzb2FlzHjpNKMrg8CWS04cHiqZRCvkHXjiSBxVzEmruG_YKaTMmPRKCwGGu3klKO3rmY/s320/IMG_0240.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgt7Un2KX69K1MeSRu4YxYzIkBwECYuAa70SyEc1sVv37tuHxFE1LtEtxRtO4jFtSc6w8HRTJ3VFSF6UJ_2yDGXxZOI_m-L5HvuBh_ryZA-0xA2VDRZQ2GmNYnWj_LwxyCbPAu7P_LdRE/s1600/IMG_0242.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgt7Un2KX69K1MeSRu4YxYzIkBwECYuAa70SyEc1sVv37tuHxFE1LtEtxRtO4jFtSc6w8HRTJ3VFSF6UJ_2yDGXxZOI_m-L5HvuBh_ryZA-0xA2VDRZQ2GmNYnWj_LwxyCbPAu7P_LdRE/s320/IMG_0242.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
A couple of details from it.<br />
<br />
Watch this space...Graham and Jill Findlayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12056676757141689845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7293977957539159441.post-71735474155905793982015-07-01T10:09:00.001+01:002015-07-01T10:09:35.333+01:00Moon, spoon and June. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihh2frVxS1mCeSAqL5_hNkkiog1QA3mpuZj7C1FJgZPyvROLonY_6LnYAr3hIpyqtI-sQfYo0abaz645R7updOd7sQjhhpRHV_4ScLR7n2Pr2HfxVz6vQH6sNzFWe79lxoVbeDSopHyzw/s1600/IMG_0208.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="264" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihh2frVxS1mCeSAqL5_hNkkiog1QA3mpuZj7C1FJgZPyvROLonY_6LnYAr3hIpyqtI-sQfYo0abaz645R7updOd7sQjhhpRHV_4ScLR7n2Pr2HfxVz6vQH6sNzFWe79lxoVbeDSopHyzw/s320/IMG_0208.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGB5xqH-NSpPUzQGHmnOZKJQBipggH6R7CI7oxxh-3WO6aGJhUxUHlEJC4USdzAPXjw4pvR-wMHVKq00X-2DfMFZp437o0EyoL0HNjjv3OxU7BNKa_UjlFv6ByH_Jw2Y5RCgaJcGbM128/s1600/IMG_0211.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGB5xqH-NSpPUzQGHmnOZKJQBipggH6R7CI7oxxh-3WO6aGJhUxUHlEJC4USdzAPXjw4pvR-wMHVKq00X-2DfMFZp437o0EyoL0HNjjv3OxU7BNKa_UjlFv6ByH_Jw2Y5RCgaJcGbM128/s320/IMG_0211.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
I've been playing with the new camera. Not bad for a hand held compact. Taken while hanging out of the side hatch last night, so it was still June.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL3Tfzn5o4IIoiMYju0fo045yLJQc1hjbDNw6iKa09vl3EQLMoEuF4RFCqvAsoypdcMTz1PyeC6LHpFIplBCC85GwtwNwu-_n_-8e5VCMr4kLW_9EafQsTwR7f4TqHPvFK0GtvNRmNjXA/s1600/IMG_0216.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL3Tfzn5o4IIoiMYju0fo045yLJQc1hjbDNw6iKa09vl3EQLMoEuF4RFCqvAsoypdcMTz1PyeC6LHpFIplBCC85GwtwNwu-_n_-8e5VCMr4kLW_9EafQsTwR7f4TqHPvFK0GtvNRmNjXA/s320/IMG_0216.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
It's my birthday treat, I get to lick the bowl out <i>and</i> eat the finished product.<br />
As today is going to be the hottest day of the year we are going to need lots of fluids. I make it about five rehydration centres in Long Itchington. Could be a long day.<br />
<br />
Watch this space...Graham and Jill Findlayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12056676757141689845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7293977957539159441.post-39330873958413698632015-06-29T20:35:00.002+01:002015-06-29T20:35:46.469+01:00The dangers of addiction.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsziiFmudOOENFMsiez0FrzeYerT5uEarG_9IOIiyS2ZmVFhr6ssi-TCFXrJtTGXEBzYQKSOfpl2FElWzHlIjVmlAFUxzB4nbeVNjNNU_hhR7gSHyNWO7HvsaBtWtP7enrlQBDlTWrILU/s1600/IMG_0184.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsziiFmudOOENFMsiez0FrzeYerT5uEarG_9IOIiyS2ZmVFhr6ssi-TCFXrJtTGXEBzYQKSOfpl2FElWzHlIjVmlAFUxzB4nbeVNjNNU_hhR7gSHyNWO7HvsaBtWtP7enrlQBDlTWrILU/s320/IMG_0184.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
We watered at the top of Cape Locks and then set of through Leamington Spa.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLAuPLJ0Au15i3_QE-TscNieH2I84Sy5JK57nP23WKvKmiXBzgK23qTZtoVCsd38pLR2MYKTqc_COVPllKdTqwfiXbx18IAEE-JABPYcsdGHKoGWSwTg77pEt8Ks_ATkhcRxxJmSX4kng/s1600/IMG_0195.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLAuPLJ0Au15i3_QE-TscNieH2I84Sy5JK57nP23WKvKmiXBzgK23qTZtoVCsd38pLR2MYKTqc_COVPllKdTqwfiXbx18IAEE-JABPYcsdGHKoGWSwTg77pEt8Ks_ATkhcRxxJmSX4kng/s320/IMG_0195.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
This is a dangerous building, the home of Kate Boats, our favoured hire boats in days of yore. Too many visits and we were addicted. Just look where that has left us, permanently bound to a wandering life, people of no fixed abode, itinerants. So beware, it could happen to you.<br />
After a quick stop at the convenient canal side Tescos for a top up we moved on.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim9NKEFbCr4XFU69i76NpGDAvqUymAyIbjH9LZjDoiYu0ulGa_tlt_JnwfrRaFLShE7i4r5gqHEq4haqaBKnTkldpM474PaOdWFmGqFwZObWt611SSwgddVo1OyuWMt4Nz8aran7fWD6o/s1600/IMG_0196.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim9NKEFbCr4XFU69i76NpGDAvqUymAyIbjH9LZjDoiYu0ulGa_tlt_JnwfrRaFLShE7i4r5gqHEq4haqaBKnTkldpM474PaOdWFmGqFwZObWt611SSwgddVo1OyuWMt4Nz8aran7fWD6o/s320/IMG_0196.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Crossing the aqueduct over the Avon. There are plans to one day connect the canal to the river about here, if the riparian owners of the river agree to letting boats traverse the stretch from Alveston Weir. As far as I can make out that will be about the same time as hell freezes over.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbgSO88NNKo-Gxk5hZiFtzXXZJiwHw_KzMPS9c_2itxbLXftLsj40WMHMZgzl9sECM55okViYQSO-8xE9WBhTZ-SSAfMuZvkGviHrPgK6HYabezXi6yFUvKtEQVkeqo86vuivRlyI58P4/s1600/IMG_0198.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbgSO88NNKo-Gxk5hZiFtzXXZJiwHw_KzMPS9c_2itxbLXftLsj40WMHMZgzl9sECM55okViYQSO-8xE9WBhTZ-SSAfMuZvkGviHrPgK6HYabezXi6yFUvKtEQVkeqo86vuivRlyI58P4/s320/IMG_0198.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
The evening stop is across the meadows from Radford Semele church which is keeping us entranced with that most quintessential of English sounds, the bell ringers at practice.<br />
Shortly after mooring, in the distance, came the unmistakeable sound of a steam whistle.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxI3Os5JYH96LietdujWwWaX_HZgvqiMVUQL7cm3Q0m0PashiHEVSP7lRCovjXO4dxtMdT379uawt8pFCuX-KZcu3WBE7sliE0dymIAH7XcRnXt_8lovXfdhgXlXK4nP7Fnbpue_FtYE4/s1600/IMG_0202.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxI3Os5JYH96LietdujWwWaX_HZgvqiMVUQL7cm3Q0m0PashiHEVSP7lRCovjXO4dxtMdT379uawt8pFCuX-KZcu3WBE7sliE0dymIAH7XcRnXt_8lovXfdhgXlXK4nP7Fnbpue_FtYE4/s320/IMG_0202.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7943znTti7HV-J_xim_M7eQcUs3BXkj5X4h8_AywG5h5_iXHEsxNUB9SAf8mvLTk6MP8us683X-x3J5S4fsQ_BwmrekyyEJE-87L2ZiSD9_wWMU4bepB9RZE1jqZD9zmDiYEjKJo36Eo/s1600/IMG_0204.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7943znTti7HV-J_xim_M7eQcUs3BXkj5X4h8_AywG5h5_iXHEsxNUB9SAf8mvLTk6MP8us683X-x3J5S4fsQ_BwmrekyyEJE-87L2ZiSD9_wWMU4bepB9RZE1jqZD9zmDiYEjKJo36Eo/s320/IMG_0204.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
President making her way back from the Braunston Rally.<br />
<br />
Watch this space...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />Graham and Jill Findlayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12056676757141689845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7293977957539159441.post-2105944498230617702015-06-28T21:57:00.002+01:002015-06-28T21:57:40.758+01:00A bit of Aaahh!Having sat the day out near, but not in, the Cape of Good Hope we really don't have much to entertain the viewing public but, leaning out of the side hatch, we took a couple of photo's.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvj5lcb_X2u1mIjBpLcT6_rEYdq4wbxRQBclCNAbuG5Kt3dnmlkCC4Z27uw-7gN2Ym6i5zUXqZAwalEbneSJMSuHuGsiTdU8Yi2hJ2I_dPvJqdjKTKubdbXSlGCX3aq3I6N8pzxIV7oZU/s1600/IMG_0187.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvj5lcb_X2u1mIjBpLcT6_rEYdq4wbxRQBclCNAbuG5Kt3dnmlkCC4Z27uw-7gN2Ym6i5zUXqZAwalEbneSJMSuHuGsiTdU8Yi2hJ2I_dPvJqdjKTKubdbXSlGCX3aq3I6N8pzxIV7oZU/s320/IMG_0187.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfzyuzp0Lz8ezkfuFxfMYyiCS3ER2qNgzbJtSYS_iakYSZJ9lG9q0-0j46AI3JpGDkUtdi0p1hS65XEZk-eJQHRlcNwDfvXmyzM0xO26qkDW_q6awSN1hNs6yBww5Yv9cIvDXgJt_2cMM/s1600/IMG_0188.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfzyuzp0Lz8ezkfuFxfMYyiCS3ER2qNgzbJtSYS_iakYSZJ9lG9q0-0j46AI3JpGDkUtdi0p1hS65XEZk-eJQHRlcNwDfvXmyzM0xO26qkDW_q6awSN1hNs6yBww5Yv9cIvDXgJt_2cMM/s320/IMG_0188.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBKNayocmBYm9oQq1nyfQBdlq4pvuKbKmSSIJEARHkUTU_w1jVFESFfl7hlqg5QqATX-hAKQO9qkdMWGfIb_mMd34bYHX0Y390VQ2d5kNN-0KdXUFPAXAidZxG5Ztzu-FS-2jq4-y6muc/s1600/IMG_0191.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBKNayocmBYm9oQq1nyfQBdlq4pvuKbKmSSIJEARHkUTU_w1jVFESFfl7hlqg5QqATX-hAKQO9qkdMWGfIb_mMd34bYHX0Y390VQ2d5kNN-0KdXUFPAXAidZxG5Ztzu-FS-2jq4-y6muc/s320/IMG_0191.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikEYIc2TmvhlQVSmf0SvqSlhDptfXKYkFDaX6RLHI39DEh3ODEwwvbUVgzl6OezXHCiGBWHJGZ4xRmFcpLWBgF2D3PPLPZRmY2Ixdr8skXDNsA7aT8OiNU22JXCEk9Z20zyvAzM-22gO4/s1600/IMG_0192.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikEYIc2TmvhlQVSmf0SvqSlhDptfXKYkFDaX6RLHI39DEh3ODEwwvbUVgzl6OezXHCiGBWHJGZ4xRmFcpLWBgF2D3PPLPZRmY2Ixdr8skXDNsA7aT8OiNU22JXCEk9Z20zyvAzM-22gO4/s320/IMG_0192.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Lots of Aaahhh! factor here.<br />
<br />
Watch this space...<br />
<br />Graham and Jill Findlayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12056676757141689845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7293977957539159441.post-63374680149838461312015-06-27T20:12:00.001+01:002015-06-27T20:12:27.122+01:00Hatton, just about sums today up.It had to come. Today we tackled The Stairway to Heaven; or as we were descending perhaps it was to somewhat warmer regions. Who knows?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1tBRpTTzdHeGIMHMcqUqvBYd1XHNge1FQvfTGINJo_DYYWwTgZubftqvD4tIOSsgMhrxUWxmEaDhK5y_mjGTfPOJ2jMgBx69MTNdrpWPW1dafPzT7AA9CbBgEr2tHsgI-W4SRSESO_8A/s1600/IMG_0164.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1tBRpTTzdHeGIMHMcqUqvBYd1XHNge1FQvfTGINJo_DYYWwTgZubftqvD4tIOSsgMhrxUWxmEaDhK5y_mjGTfPOJ2jMgBx69MTNdrpWPW1dafPzT7AA9CbBgEr2tHsgI-W4SRSESO_8A/s320/IMG_0164.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
But first came Shrewley Tunnel with its odd horse tunnel taking the towpath through alongside the main tunnel. I am unable to work out the thinking behind this. Surely it would have been cheaper just to take the horses over the hill. Or if there were some problem with that it would have made more sense to widen the canal tunnel and provide a towpath alongside the canal. I'm quite happy with the current set up though; just one more little quirk of the wonder that is the inland waterways.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir5mWjCOf2ACbp6o7DOo0RmYY-DA-hSNp6IjHvSK9yIWc5_aQm8F3cNnTJfLXSHk-cC7hawAtxAsEqcQTTxB0YjfqJUOA2iizbehTPkFu4IOuSHjDNg1u56hp1spUssgXehOnuNCBggAM/s1600/IMG_0166.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir5mWjCOf2ACbp6o7DOo0RmYY-DA-hSNp6IjHvSK9yIWc5_aQm8F3cNnTJfLXSHk-cC7hawAtxAsEqcQTTxB0YjfqJUOA2iizbehTPkFu4IOuSHjDNg1u56hp1spUssgXehOnuNCBggAM/s320/IMG_0166.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXVM7pbix3AUdL2EZ2AJl2pSUYfOkkLsoRsmTxFZqHlUc3pKH0IR0kidlVET_7Zd3PWityRJKHw8qCDsqglAlXuTDXBzJ-nBhUPfHSn70HrAN570MFZHBJxPisDgCyLnRM3ZcTqMJK1ZU/s1600/IMG_0167.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXVM7pbix3AUdL2EZ2AJl2pSUYfOkkLsoRsmTxFZqHlUc3pKH0IR0kidlVET_7Zd3PWityRJKHw8qCDsqglAlXuTDXBzJ-nBhUPfHSn70HrAN570MFZHBJxPisDgCyLnRM3ZcTqMJK1ZU/s320/IMG_0167.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
The top of the Hatton Flight with their statuesque paddle gear. We watered and waited at the top but alas no other boat appeared to share the hard graft of the descent.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE5IzI_RxocH5JCpMPw1hQ9GK-I3T0lSCEfU3PYlfxWsw7bcShA4yWH6iEwPKBs7-rOnjlF6WpynPpWFmR0CMRIrQ2XrmKjXNIJkhBWPCSUGgFb5aTvge8s1ERLoYQVQP8kaynl94sUjc/s1600/IMG_0169.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE5IzI_RxocH5JCpMPw1hQ9GK-I3T0lSCEfU3PYlfxWsw7bcShA4yWH6iEwPKBs7-rOnjlF6WpynPpWFmR0CMRIrQ2XrmKjXNIJkhBWPCSUGgFb5aTvge8s1ERLoYQVQP8kaynl94sUjc/s320/IMG_0169.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Those lock chambers are large and lonely for a boat on its own.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCzAkmswj_5nKWZnFGVIlmlcGinNlnMVAgDpxi3-B2CAhz2atncQ978pLAHYVDx8IYwsxw5umMuNqKPrK93SG8qhPb4IDw-yfi7FctjGspoJOyha8y4BAvcKxh9fprp93643DdN2T0YRI/s1600/IMG_0170.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCzAkmswj_5nKWZnFGVIlmlcGinNlnMVAgDpxi3-B2CAhz2atncQ978pLAHYVDx8IYwsxw5umMuNqKPrK93SG8qhPb4IDw-yfi7FctjGspoJOyha8y4BAvcKxh9fprp93643DdN2T0YRI/s320/IMG_0170.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX3baZ8zNIQ6QYgKjNQNcwSvg-XuqZwvJFHGGx-i8qT7aag9kxwyUcB3nPFYAWMJeV1TQVE7KXSW4YBrlnWO_q8UokB2lgdV-5ON7n-GF8x7nvNHzJptu4WCOlH-ca74ycrdCeFCvzdvM/s1600/IMG_0171.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX3baZ8zNIQ6QYgKjNQNcwSvg-XuqZwvJFHGGx-i8qT7aag9kxwyUcB3nPFYAWMJeV1TQVE7KXSW4YBrlnWO_q8UokB2lgdV-5ON7n-GF8x7nvNHzJptu4WCOlH-ca74ycrdCeFCvzdvM/s320/IMG_0171.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
As you descend there is plenty of evidence of the old single locks that were replaced by the wide locks in the modernisation of the nineteen-thirties. This is one wall of the chamber of the old top lock complete with gate recess and the date 1893 and the lock number, Hatton number 1.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlKd2iu6fg7cB2QDJu8CvXhHC0JRVnQMprew5kz-tUAE7LknPoOXhLt_Xbt69PnqzZA9rn8wcmgnsURz8fZk3r4PUhNyoagBSQH1LZG7eYnI0HfAKCo8KnCb1JMLwBkdWzwqI5_SRhBek/s1600/IMG_0175.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlKd2iu6fg7cB2QDJu8CvXhHC0JRVnQMprew5kz-tUAE7LknPoOXhLt_Xbt69PnqzZA9rn8wcmgnsURz8fZk3r4PUhNyoagBSQH1LZG7eYnI0HfAKCo8KnCb1JMLwBkdWzwqI5_SRhBek/s320/IMG_0175.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik7kg6Iz7F_PJY2CYHHpludvOtoJYeB9pKcyJoF1Da7dbV_awJ2E7aPfD-dHnfOxtHtK9PXkrE8HKx8voBrfM-RcPLwumX5C-36vuxaqRwhUo2okilWyhVkXm-u8g765jU_dxsY6APBEc/s1600/IMG_0182.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik7kg6Iz7F_PJY2CYHHpludvOtoJYeB9pKcyJoF1Da7dbV_awJ2E7aPfD-dHnfOxtHtK9PXkrE8HKx8voBrfM-RcPLwumX5C-36vuxaqRwhUo2okilWyhVkXm-u8g765jU_dxsY6APBEc/s320/IMG_0182.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
A lot of the old chambers have found a new use as by-washes for the newer locks.<br />
Fortunately, after a couple of locks we were met by another of C&RT's splendid volunteers who set off lock wheeling for us which decreased the work load and increased the speed of our transit.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyXiU7t7otsJ1srSviV2zYt8n9ClN_e-o9JRS1BjqyFeD07fqPUIwBfKDKYkTVqxSkN7kVPQKebVlfpVREOULFIaR2ogdiJ0D8P87DnQ8DuCKv9rGDMKdF7MtMIL3kSEcCfErDHYWYNRg/s1600/IMG_0174.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyXiU7t7otsJ1srSviV2zYt8n9ClN_e-o9JRS1BjqyFeD07fqPUIwBfKDKYkTVqxSkN7kVPQKebVlfpVREOULFIaR2ogdiJ0D8P87DnQ8DuCKv9rGDMKdF7MtMIL3kSEcCfErDHYWYNRg/s320/IMG_0174.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Not a volunteer as such but the other vital part of Armadillo's crew. Not just great at locks but beautiful as well. XXX And a damn good cook.<br />
The C&RT chap then said would we hang on as there was a boat a couple of locks behind us and it would make life better all round if we shared the locks and so we were joined by Hermes,<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRQkB-JX_8I3tEzbeH5MVNiMl5_jsMdKPFMtqqMiVJMCmu-I1j7vXAGe_RNjoxfQLDDAOmMUV-qKKwuDRX-2r8i_6GtD3E3F_J5eblRhhNC_iANrBH8eqwM4MTd-3U8HikSd9rD7jGOSk/s1600/IMG_0179.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRQkB-JX_8I3tEzbeH5MVNiMl5_jsMdKPFMtqqMiVJMCmu-I1j7vXAGe_RNjoxfQLDDAOmMUV-qKKwuDRX-2r8i_6GtD3E3F_J5eblRhhNC_iANrBH8eqwM4MTd-3U8HikSd9rD7jGOSk/s320/IMG_0179.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
out from the Black Boy Cruising Club for the weekend.<br />
Well we fairly flew down the rest of the flight and were soon passing the cottage by the bottom lock.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyoaSvDRQgrlLczb1JZfBpXANSfdmlOjurbVS7_Ft7lo-AaYkvBnCH8wqLpsRI4JSQzzRfry4ZVeIYKENferXTVoXR0EhHVCBPOHdCb_S8N-GzbCz5j9M3NVTIKFm96vZkwtt3Ha8ol60/s1600/IMG_0180.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyoaSvDRQgrlLczb1JZfBpXANSfdmlOjurbVS7_Ft7lo-AaYkvBnCH8wqLpsRI4JSQzzRfry4ZVeIYKENferXTVoXR0EhHVCBPOHdCb_S8N-GzbCz5j9M3NVTIKFm96vZkwtt3Ha8ol60/s320/IMG_0180.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Having reached the bottom of the flight there was only one place to head for.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7V-2oF5eGTzEYQUY_EwP_mTgjW4l7ROus_7yUYvZAtCkFY_yUX3to2791NNzK0lFyFFKLRifps8aUNcvgXjW-1lPQPnXOJr0-KYr8fOddnLUN-_rhMaYEE4kXsTWYODRagXvVCcakheE/s1600/IMG_0183.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7V-2oF5eGTzEYQUY_EwP_mTgjW4l7ROus_7yUYvZAtCkFY_yUX3to2791NNzK0lFyFFKLRifps8aUNcvgXjW-1lPQPnXOJr0-KYr8fOddnLUN-_rhMaYEE4kXsTWYODRagXvVCcakheE/s320/IMG_0183.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
The Cape of Good Hope. Odd name for a pub in Warwick, especially as it is currently run by New Zealanders. But they fed and watered us splendidly.<br />
<br />
Watch this space...Graham and Jill Findlayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12056676757141689845noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7293977957539159441.post-64413504315099660562015-06-26T23:21:00.001+01:002015-06-26T23:21:09.644+01:00Brief summing up.Today it rained. We stayed put.Graham and Jill Findlayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12056676757141689845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7293977957539159441.post-78062764231542895642015-06-25T17:38:00.001+01:002015-06-25T17:40:44.422+01:00Down Lapworth and a wave at some celebrities.As promised here we are, a day behind as usual.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTS7X9xYycfxz0JBsWx3uZ-H7XMWfld-zZ92ohhesoFFnqpxwqM-VCFswlS_xAKeFgrEMdjAzdXvm6jO-g17TzyNwAlwAWOIgNK8u9JKjiCv4hFufL5OMY-Y4Ro26cDYI3wUZ4izVgyus/s1600/IMG_0120.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTS7X9xYycfxz0JBsWx3uZ-H7XMWfld-zZ92ohhesoFFnqpxwqM-VCFswlS_xAKeFgrEMdjAzdXvm6jO-g17TzyNwAlwAWOIgNK8u9JKjiCv4hFufL5OMY-Y4Ro26cDYI3wUZ4izVgyus/s320/IMG_0120.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Bridge twenty-six on the Stratford, Jill said it was a doddle to raise and lower. That was fine until I tried to pick her up afterwards. The row of piling visible below the bridge is theoretically a landing for the collection of crew. Well I sailed merrily in and ground to a dismal halt. Jill managed to clear the gap and get aboard, it then took us ten minutes to get out of the mud. Time for a quick dredge around here methinks.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkuvWqvLuSPNwg17En5KqthLGXl93BygSdDzl0ugBHoB7ReeJsHlVW9zPpoQF97xaZQWahEyLfiESLZOa205d9lTRBcbH9bYsTEudryZy2S-VBrqN0e550nmJBowxJiMEWc75xO27csV0/s1600/IMG_0121.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkuvWqvLuSPNwg17En5KqthLGXl93BygSdDzl0ugBHoB7ReeJsHlVW9zPpoQF97xaZQWahEyLfiESLZOa205d9lTRBcbH9bYsTEudryZy2S-VBrqN0e550nmJBowxJiMEWc75xO27csV0/s320/IMG_0121.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Came across a flying boat by bridge twenty-seven.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUgYfqR3m3Xh4csSLV_QwzTViGspKZ6Qxij56KYVPuX_aD9hRknKUIqBrlLmB6vNnvqgmt2OYdQHIbz2mkoILKWq2Cxy8tOrAYbytUsm2Oy1cGM3K2O5xblu_v3zUl0j-HcdDIhpRlgiE/s1600/IMG_0126.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUgYfqR3m3Xh4csSLV_QwzTViGspKZ6Qxij56KYVPuX_aD9hRknKUIqBrlLmB6vNnvqgmt2OYdQHIbz2mkoILKWq2Cxy8tOrAYbytUsm2Oy1cGM3K2O5xblu_v3zUl0j-HcdDIhpRlgiE/s320/IMG_0126.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqE4jOcDuMSXHUIuTjyyIHU2nQO9NkaJuye_Z9fKl6ZepU2CM0JaJH9yeZe9plcr8wICrSrEac32JNJRhKKhc4XitRB5cSVsmSLj1IaG6L5TFn_3OaPmyUfm08nPm3v_j9LXfvgx9APfU/s1600/IMG_0127.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqE4jOcDuMSXHUIuTjyyIHU2nQO9NkaJuye_Z9fKl6ZepU2CM0JaJH9yeZe9plcr8wICrSrEac32JNJRhKKhc4XitRB5cSVsmSLj1IaG6L5TFn_3OaPmyUfm08nPm3v_j9LXfvgx9APfU/s320/IMG_0127.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
The major event was the Lapworth Flight. Jill elected to take the boat so, with my trusty windlass in hand, I attacked the first paddle. Talk about eye-popping, tough wasn't in it. Back to the boat for the longer windlass and off we went.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzy5bj29PthQSEbBlfvzhkvMqNqMstRc1uHWFJVVI5b5iicls7CIamZr29926HUkNQYzVHif3zmHZnHe6obZK5cIAUtVaU6MX6KBrXuRc5IxcnqgdzH2ogrejJ4FEh3yQmnvVW00Ew_zY/s1600/IMG_0131.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzy5bj29PthQSEbBlfvzhkvMqNqMstRc1uHWFJVVI5b5iicls7CIamZr29926HUkNQYzVHif3zmHZnHe6obZK5cIAUtVaU6MX6KBrXuRc5IxcnqgdzH2ogrejJ4FEh3yQmnvVW00Ew_zY/s320/IMG_0131.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbCvMvo2yTL3mz8JiLsn-dEUof3N9kyovlazB-PN6kYtTZjVLHiB8CNiRhJ0NJcsss7NNzuFs72J0q1yAzRPy_a6Y9S7ABrjtIWJnz8gh0tNP1EifxEvQrqs9HG5dSDAW9X7mk8AIYO3s/s1600/IMG_0146.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbCvMvo2yTL3mz8JiLsn-dEUof3N9kyovlazB-PN6kYtTZjVLHiB8CNiRhJ0NJcsss7NNzuFs72J0q1yAzRPy_a6Y9S7ABrjtIWJnz8gh0tNP1EifxEvQrqs9HG5dSDAW9X7mk8AIYO3s/s320/IMG_0146.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
At the fourth lock we came across these two splendid chaps, volunteers looking for someone to help. I was only too pleased to accept their offer of assistance and off we went.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPkASSnVKKsVysc5DvYF3s6hYQsucnFDKpQe2Vq1nKDBbz7HmXMpVubaiBMqpt3iwQG-EV7cEuVC0qzWgzTDr9za3d6pUpgYLt4334NNpL-GDuk7j4-5L-JHF53Ej8KT8mqOIaQgePL2s/s1600/IMG_0132.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="277" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPkASSnVKKsVysc5DvYF3s6hYQsucnFDKpQe2Vq1nKDBbz7HmXMpVubaiBMqpt3iwQG-EV7cEuVC0qzWgzTDr9za3d6pUpgYLt4334NNpL-GDuk7j4-5L-JHF53Ej8KT8mqOIaQgePL2s/s320/IMG_0132.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Some of the gates were on the heavy side, boy was I glad we had them with us.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi561viK0LZ2Bjn3z4J9BegEwLaqZhP3UhFuT_FLvihDbGlRc5OxIn7HC1L7sMsWV_OwMK5xxNrWJ52cPnQsS5ty9sHdPHVcZLIOBO5uGgqcfZuLGYg-8IdxSM4J4h5XTcMNSU_AIYMoMY/s1600/IMG_0136.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi561viK0LZ2Bjn3z4J9BegEwLaqZhP3UhFuT_FLvihDbGlRc5OxIn7HC1L7sMsWV_OwMK5xxNrWJ52cPnQsS5ty9sHdPHVcZLIOBO5uGgqcfZuLGYg-8IdxSM4J4h5XTcMNSU_AIYMoMY/s320/IMG_0136.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqFFdb-ttpbsCXNHLgRY-CQkNcCkg9kv_mC9Zx3Js6QRgtLMId_K88-0VsffBb58EZd_9cq0G9KYtuzJUp9apdz8NkFplWtv4vfIwF_r0hGco3uUliHVlV6ai-BFi9__LdJ8lNBVxua5I/s1600/IMG_0140.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqFFdb-ttpbsCXNHLgRY-CQkNcCkg9kv_mC9Zx3Js6QRgtLMId_K88-0VsffBb58EZd_9cq0G9KYtuzJUp9apdz8NkFplWtv4vfIwF_r0hGco3uUliHVlV6ai-BFi9__LdJ8lNBVxua5I/s320/IMG_0140.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmgCgARqhyphenhyphenHyZTx3dcZP53pucAehPUwwcS7AV0Gfl9nFpPsU480dSpmI9z96nhAzACJaPCjyIKjZ1CqXK5KdZwKUFAPywSN9YWLGdm5L7QeUqQ9OrY-104vyMKLtTda4ffyzhDXw8KXiY/s1600/IMG_0147.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmgCgARqhyphenhyphenHyZTx3dcZP53pucAehPUwwcS7AV0Gfl9nFpPsU480dSpmI9z96nhAzACJaPCjyIKjZ1CqXK5KdZwKUFAPywSN9YWLGdm5L7QeUqQ9OrY-104vyMKLtTda4ffyzhDXw8KXiY/s320/IMG_0147.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
It is an attractive flight but has become hard work.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLF9LAuAPSHEuYnZiZ1pIpWaa1i8c7um5O_b4mkuMPdCMW-wEW1ZEL-2O0lEUi4VYezfFuxgvwWz-Qr370CWUtZf-WkHi74SLvqONG-ylWEy3HmScHovF0zNMBUuQUEzbEj8xHIjF7EJ8/s1600/IMG_0150.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLF9LAuAPSHEuYnZiZ1pIpWaa1i8c7um5O_b4mkuMPdCMW-wEW1ZEL-2O0lEUi4VYezfFuxgvwWz-Qr370CWUtZf-WkHi74SLvqONG-ylWEy3HmScHovF0zNMBUuQUEzbEj8xHIjF7EJ8/s320/IMG_0150.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Below lock nineteen you have a choice, straight on and you are heading for Stratford,<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAMg4DTCQL3GYkhGNPsyRN_MjzCiNMRrr0oo_eYl7ytxtXMnDEORZcyDX2eIV3_jgAawNp4fGWNKBXJGcbsDI6nTzqwzYo9dBeiMjuz-6C_BeebFHPyavIZsy9fkhicCuCuZwtILlr-po/s1600/IMG_0151.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAMg4DTCQL3GYkhGNPsyRN_MjzCiNMRrr0oo_eYl7ytxtXMnDEORZcyDX2eIV3_jgAawNp4fGWNKBXJGcbsDI6nTzqwzYo9dBeiMjuz-6C_BeebFHPyavIZsy9fkhicCuCuZwtILlr-po/s320/IMG_0151.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyVgzqoENjKr_eUEiPBTNr92UO7VivFafsj53KImZffnjyFdoS4zieSiRB63S9Pl3dKNDtWqyxYf4AjMgIjerP6N7jK3f4y17dk3Kg5-0_OxGFd_4y1Dj77x2ltay_cJouGmhOddfqJl0/s1600/IMG_0153.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyVgzqoENjKr_eUEiPBTNr92UO7VivFafsj53KImZffnjyFdoS4zieSiRB63S9Pl3dKNDtWqyxYf4AjMgIjerP6N7jK3f4y17dk3Kg5-0_OxGFd_4y1Dj77x2ltay_cJouGmhOddfqJl0/s320/IMG_0153.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
swing across to the left and you are heading for the Grand Union. That is the route we headed for.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj54MMiyGqit5eZB3GkrF_sJE2PZh68Q1hVNaar4KQzCNclRNBULBUM0Q_U4wDEIP3tIAvshTE2FDyn98fBFLXuKu-MiDQKT7I4niADiI5JzHvWL6QI0hyphenhyphen7XLur0mUrEkBKCzvl4SQ5a0M/s1600/IMG_0159.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj54MMiyGqit5eZB3GkrF_sJE2PZh68Q1hVNaar4KQzCNclRNBULBUM0Q_U4wDEIP3tIAvshTE2FDyn98fBFLXuKu-MiDQKT7I4niADiI5JzHvWL6QI0hyphenhyphen7XLur0mUrEkBKCzvl4SQ5a0M/s320/IMG_0159.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Once through this bridge you are out on the wide and deep waters of the Grand Union, quite a change from the Stratford.<br />
About a mile south of Rowington we called it a day and tied opposite some rather des. res.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNSJSoBt_sUAlN9XMq1aR4VerR82jzH3_wpDHjlOncQGZ093l9MQMl5gGVo77Kwn0FjdV88uI5G3hsb0bL-yewVdobF11L_eu-TbkmLhO2IMqbTdvl8UCOOSuuGZE5cKgozYEkna5tPa0/s1600/IMG_0160.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNSJSoBt_sUAlN9XMq1aR4VerR82jzH3_wpDHjlOncQGZ093l9MQMl5gGVo77Kwn0FjdV88uI5G3hsb0bL-yewVdobF11L_eu-TbkmLhO2IMqbTdvl8UCOOSuuGZE5cKgozYEkna5tPa0/s320/IMG_0160.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Today was a day of rest, Jill got on with her cross stitch and I became involved in piscatorial pursuits. I think I must be either the unluckiest or the most incompetent angler of modern times, the only bite I got came from a mosquito.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBIYjSKhiqv2Ipn9xBXiXvBHaXXS_EpD-0VW3W2J_qeVpNOZLXfG2u0arm3iRvmX-l0eu65xuZKob0Mx9DnZVRUL3VcVkMARRuJNpQnAgOv3bKeRHQqCEqG8QASXd_Flr5qvl9mvJjYaM/s1600/IMG_0161.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBIYjSKhiqv2Ipn9xBXiXvBHaXXS_EpD-0VW3W2J_qeVpNOZLXfG2u0arm3iRvmX-l0eu65xuZKob0Mx9DnZVRUL3VcVkMARRuJNpQnAgOv3bKeRHQqCEqG8QASXd_Flr5qvl9mvJjYaM/s320/IMG_0161.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Highlight of the day. They are obviously making another series because Timothy West and Prunella Scales and an entire production team passed us on a Napton hire boat. So watch the next series, there may be a glimpse of Armadillo.<br />
<br />
Watch this space...<br />
<br />
<br />Graham and Jill Findlayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12056676757141689845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7293977957539159441.post-64323608483983175042015-06-24T16:31:00.000+01:002015-06-24T16:35:31.031+01:00Worcester Bar to Dicken's Heath.We finally tired of the flesh pots of Birmingham and yesterday morning we set off early-ish.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4A1t8SuesahuGo_OMinljZKpUSmAQD47DLYd8PgIU-0-C28kLni_gBo87O1l6S7OQEj7Thndu5nAHAZ4dNwnSLx9aMlNj9vsB43_yoKC0S3E_cCzNDOUtAQCyFa4SHDfShwber3njwJ4/s1600/IMG_0056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4A1t8SuesahuGo_OMinljZKpUSmAQD47DLYd8PgIU-0-C28kLni_gBo87O1l6S7OQEj7Thndu5nAHAZ4dNwnSLx9aMlNj9vsB43_yoKC0S3E_cCzNDOUtAQCyFa4SHDfShwber3njwJ4/s320/IMG_0056.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
We passed our favourite burger restaurant and then it was through<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLib-M_YO-1uZ4SqxHSTs179POcW1mH2hLt92JVmeX8ZwgyeR2aZzsPEnwZoi-PxcEtBrH3UdAFefIRt_EkJ0fivPDY0lcYnu0daDUE2Rlt8UY8pC6mgHL_yZvSc_tLPCCSJ7MbxJuf3U/s1600/IMG_0062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLib-M_YO-1uZ4SqxHSTs179POcW1mH2hLt92JVmeX8ZwgyeR2aZzsPEnwZoi-PxcEtBrH3UdAFefIRt_EkJ0fivPDY0lcYnu0daDUE2Rlt8UY8pC6mgHL_yZvSc_tLPCCSJ7MbxJuf3U/s320/IMG_0062.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Broad Street tunnel and then the old stop lock in the once infamous Worcester Bar.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWvXIcRrMg2AlRAr84bfZEDIv2bWIDB7aAsEAODXN7vUfDrhkF-5aX81iyT1v6Mpwt44rEACkRuhz4FPO1JEcFEYwhs7mS5b5EOR-Ix-BtkPLDVrX-aGZbLSYFBLJsm4Y_ZZzlJnnb_vE/s1600/IMG_0068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWvXIcRrMg2AlRAr84bfZEDIv2bWIDB7aAsEAODXN7vUfDrhkF-5aX81iyT1v6Mpwt44rEACkRuhz4FPO1JEcFEYwhs7mS5b5EOR-Ix-BtkPLDVrX-aGZbLSYFBLJsm4Y_ZZzlJnnb_vE/s320/IMG_0068.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
This was where the new comer, the Worcs. and B'ham Canal, met the B.C.N. in 1795. Worried that their precious water might be siphoned off down to the Severn the B.C.N. insisted that there should be a seven foot dry strip between the two canals. This meant that all cargo coming up from or going down to Worcester had to be manhandled from one boat, across the bar and into another. After much lobbying a stop lock was finally built through the bar in 1815.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUiz5NlcNvd3gHI99gnEs4znQCEZS_KVbx8FleT8SfOI222FXd_wwcDKN7CP8YUvSAc1finHfPxeJL8YxYHzR_nB5cNqJfXI23zI16iLfEkyozBfi6rLQndiKPctW9x7L_aVGI9xPijZQ/s1600/IMG_0069.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUiz5NlcNvd3gHI99gnEs4znQCEZS_KVbx8FleT8SfOI222FXd_wwcDKN7CP8YUvSAc1finHfPxeJL8YxYHzR_nB5cNqJfXI23zI16iLfEkyozBfi6rLQndiKPctW9x7L_aVGI9xPijZQ/s320/IMG_0069.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
The gates are long gone but the narrow chamber of the lock still remains as a reminder of the past.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjodhz9SYpK5_ykT9DZE77I026bEHoclXhZZTRTnnPB3tAHa0VCUsmhuLbsbC-qhkMjhuWzV1nFYGm6wR9hAf0ovVnX0BmTB1FMJ08wff-1EPxgunEk05S6ZBEV1_16C3X3-rdnSzUDE4c/s1600/IMG_0073.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjodhz9SYpK5_ykT9DZE77I026bEHoclXhZZTRTnnPB3tAHa0VCUsmhuLbsbC-qhkMjhuWzV1nFYGm6wR9hAf0ovVnX0BmTB1FMJ08wff-1EPxgunEk05S6ZBEV1_16C3X3-rdnSzUDE4c/s320/IMG_0073.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVhGG3QlSzBANZoMee8I97PbefnSM08hMr_Cfegg2Ox39HL-Pd8wuHif1ar2NBhR1c0j_jpzN47Q-C3g7nYhhMYflvYQh1xwXzAxrpmaun_KCFu6IsoDE1SRY18I1tsOwg2F4bDc_7ykU/s1600/IMG_0076.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVhGG3QlSzBANZoMee8I97PbefnSM08hMr_Cfegg2Ox39HL-Pd8wuHif1ar2NBhR1c0j_jpzN47Q-C3g7nYhhMYflvYQh1xwXzAxrpmaun_KCFu6IsoDE1SRY18I1tsOwg2F4bDc_7ykU/s320/IMG_0076.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Down the Worcs. and B'ham the first few miles is parelleled by the railway. Busy at that time of the morning bringing commuters in to the city for their daily grind.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8SqJUc1_DRVatZy7u1TB6ifOLyRgJbiMOibajvVrWDyT8_-gCxpT-E_juYN7zo7L-TH7JfD5uF-QOGhcwYBpOHipc05nwRMG-2Ir5lMkJCG6e4eNkFy4NR52-i7msBc1ZYGOXmYg1Ybo/s1600/IMG_0094.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8SqJUc1_DRVatZy7u1TB6ifOLyRgJbiMOibajvVrWDyT8_-gCxpT-E_juYN7zo7L-TH7JfD5uF-QOGhcwYBpOHipc05nwRMG-2Ir5lMkJCG6e4eNkFy4NR52-i7msBc1ZYGOXmYg1Ybo/s320/IMG_0094.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6TKIybti4rwF3Tmu0m8jK3kc2rvyGFYLnyxrnZCGU-9pd6losE0Tqn7xJyzwc4uf7tZY4riFKOj6x_uP4BiFkZ3NrhcaU3TxY67e0CVCQRzeeynp1tCtWYNXgWLwOhcMy5E8Id7g8hyo/s1600/IMG_0095.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6TKIybti4rwF3Tmu0m8jK3kc2rvyGFYLnyxrnZCGU-9pd6losE0Tqn7xJyzwc4uf7tZY4riFKOj6x_uP4BiFkZ3NrhcaU3TxY67e0CVCQRzeeynp1tCtWYNXgWLwOhcMy5E8Id7g8hyo/s320/IMG_0095.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
At Kings Norton Junction we turned off onto the Stratford Canal.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg126TZODyh29ZvSI2ePiImBSqvs5uvKHjovas34Q7b_HFHRIpcioyBoR0koYHeRIeKioi-45ntwaOozYmACctMllEFH0PYbLScPgOTCq2Z4xSZ5XCtedsEl8RANV2Yc0-TGDdFs9vnyb0/s1600/IMG_0099.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg126TZODyh29ZvSI2ePiImBSqvs5uvKHjovas34Q7b_HFHRIpcioyBoR0koYHeRIeKioi-45ntwaOozYmACctMllEFH0PYbLScPgOTCq2Z4xSZ5XCtedsEl8RANV2Yc0-TGDdFs9vnyb0/s320/IMG_0099.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Yet another stop lock, this one still retains its unique guillotine gates, no longer used but kept as an historical artifact. Recently refurbished but already literally bedaubed by the locals.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp6FM0U8b5ctRDrIAdEtqgC5wYOARxvBywpbUrsdm2A4kdzebuqJNYTe-ZaESjry2umSZzgKeTufLeP9NO07w6lHZd7eamvlx7s08ZNscTnv9OdVJkl9FEu320ch8-Q-6alh7GKX9rzq4/s1600/IMG_0105.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp6FM0U8b5ctRDrIAdEtqgC5wYOARxvBywpbUrsdm2A4kdzebuqJNYTe-ZaESjry2umSZzgKeTufLeP9NO07w6lHZd7eamvlx7s08ZNscTnv9OdVJkl9FEu320ch8-Q-6alh7GKX9rzq4/s320/IMG_0105.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
The north portal of Brandwood tunnel retains its plaque of Stratford's most, some might say only, famous son. After the tunnel the canal assumes an almost rural air even though it traverses several of Birmingham's more salubrious suburbs.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUVDMCD_Mmbx5ZLJqykNRNApkauULh4Q3YWFPvFwEeOGSg0yc6CvgmzsltLUNU4sYSc-cuf8mljbMDof0GKaXPF3VsU7ii0x-QXBF34DQ-wrHJIMVz-nrGC2DSh5shHBaPGyvZ9U_tnws/s1600/IMG_0111.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUVDMCD_Mmbx5ZLJqykNRNApkauULh4Q3YWFPvFwEeOGSg0yc6CvgmzsltLUNU4sYSc-cuf8mljbMDof0GKaXPF3VsU7ii0x-QXBF34DQ-wrHJIMVz-nrGC2DSh5shHBaPGyvZ9U_tnws/s320/IMG_0111.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Tree lined, exceedingly shallow and well supplied with various articles all eager to wrap themselves around your blades.<br />
We moored just south of Dicken's Heath and, playing with the new camera, Jill got a rather good shot of a swallow at rest.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPcyEpkn-wGbLrxgXn1PYPmxItD0KRKPCCwqHZhAVtKEyefl6y9EToGjhv4suHr6RmamZnWyoJadNf8Wh0mlhKDA6E9xoas93YAAFEuYewIbDGi0gmMaOIPRznkyqw4T5lG3BoyMurFLU/s1600/IMG_0116.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="204" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPcyEpkn-wGbLrxgXn1PYPmxItD0KRKPCCwqHZhAVtKEyefl6y9EToGjhv4suHr6RmamZnWyoJadNf8Wh0mlhKDA6E9xoas93YAAFEuYewIbDGi0gmMaOIPRznkyqw4T5lG3BoyMurFLU/s320/IMG_0116.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Today's doings will be held over until tomorrow as we are having a rest day.<br />
<br />
Watch this space...<br />
<br />
<br />Graham and Jill Findlayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12056676757141689845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7293977957539159441.post-41599151104816559182015-06-22T20:07:00.001+01:002015-06-22T20:07:56.453+01:00Steam passing through Birmingham.We had just returned from another lunch out when we heard a distinctive whistle echoing between the high buildings of central Birmingham and then there she was, emerging from Sheepcote Street Bridge.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgedcIeejVwKSlbQiFam0NBvW15Q0iLn0-TMIlfPBt0nNEqyMaGJs8lX8vVuVZjjY1Cg-6V8UcIagdjRaeKAzbHpDoI0F4BN9jzJA0YeXeFXJ5P74A5BWdfnIuAiR7HdlXpVRvwH9juf-4/s1600/IMG_0041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgedcIeejVwKSlbQiFam0NBvW15Q0iLn0-TMIlfPBt0nNEqyMaGJs8lX8vVuVZjjY1Cg-6V8UcIagdjRaeKAzbHpDoI0F4BN9jzJA0YeXeFXJ5P74A5BWdfnIuAiR7HdlXpVRvwH9juf-4/s320/IMG_0041.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZoVwgDcUVcyefJ3alPAlys6VIBqzEg7aFsNx8093QOk0NbG3IAhiseMC3Mr8rnunQhFvCp-uDsSD5fZF_u6ykImQ2UPEyggKkWwydaFjV_n-Smg50EB-3q9SX53u3yu2DVBNtNNkCkG0/s1600/IMG_0042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZoVwgDcUVcyefJ3alPAlys6VIBqzEg7aFsNx8093QOk0NbG3IAhiseMC3Mr8rnunQhFvCp-uDsSD5fZF_u6ykImQ2UPEyggKkWwydaFjV_n-Smg50EB-3q9SX53u3yu2DVBNtNNkCkG0/s320/IMG_0042.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
President, the last surviving steamer of the F.M.C. fleet. Alright, I know she spent most of her working life with a Bolinder engine (Fitted in 1925) and the steam plant she now carries originates from a Thames launch but she looks and sounds the business.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHv3KDBUT1Fkon1FYEWSJSBJB1M2Qu9LFaA2CdSrQPaqavfWYopIrrjFGSJdkD5E9-BgJYR-vOnJw54UNFHSIB65lKsoMf6mV3aXA5UbDMfkJ6FFZR3QXNChOH9wXsF5NL1YV82eWlhRk/s1600/IMG_0044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHv3KDBUT1Fkon1FYEWSJSBJB1M2Qu9LFaA2CdSrQPaqavfWYopIrrjFGSJdkD5E9-BgJYR-vOnJw54UNFHSIB65lKsoMf6mV3aXA5UbDMfkJ6FFZR3QXNChOH9wXsF5NL1YV82eWlhRk/s320/IMG_0044.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghpHAgkomjP-Uxw4NSxwnjpzeoioYsUrr6UI4JYBNam0PjlUEUbrxp9aINYLvaLaPri1NsUaN52AuiVORqVgW3-4oybeuh5HKPFBnihE2VIBTnMvtLF58Y4TuXcMkNepVv0BVxvv7_ohw/s1600/IMG_0045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghpHAgkomjP-Uxw4NSxwnjpzeoioYsUrr6UI4JYBNam0PjlUEUbrxp9aINYLvaLaPri1NsUaN52AuiVORqVgW3-4oybeuh5HKPFBnihE2VIBTnMvtLF58Y4TuXcMkNepVv0BVxvv7_ohw/s320/IMG_0045.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
A cloud of steam and another mournful whistle and she was past Armadillo,<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ7pe6xT8g8nUxo-frOYtTwX9NzMvTFHX-yp4tw6-wAx1jV6KbJJNdkd7wtnGpkdKALSQXeSYCsrO5tFXOqKlGe7OFAOBXFZCQ3PZzJaP5eyJL8eTWdngHDSCXK_NqVxHUStZ_V0aCkBo/s1600/IMG_0047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ7pe6xT8g8nUxo-frOYtTwX9NzMvTFHX-yp4tw6-wAx1jV6KbJJNdkd7wtnGpkdKALSQXeSYCsrO5tFXOqKlGe7OFAOBXFZCQ3PZzJaP5eyJL8eTWdngHDSCXK_NqVxHUStZ_V0aCkBo/s320/IMG_0047.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOeTCZCu-t9zgGcDpZzKIIDfM8bo4n_oyVjUBZnsP2h9NHmXWp5S0afTfGIB4mfljdIKM9YLhZuZQTcQfvju6ktVF9jntM3UUAXF9NZT_mG_A0aCmghWsa20AXeV-JB6Gpw-BG-2nWpFw/s1600/IMG_0049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOeTCZCu-t9zgGcDpZzKIIDfM8bo4n_oyVjUBZnsP2h9NHmXWp5S0afTfGIB4mfljdIKM9YLhZuZQTcQfvju6ktVF9jntM3UUAXF9NZT_mG_A0aCmghWsa20AXeV-JB6Gpw-BG-2nWpFw/s320/IMG_0049.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
turning at Old Turn Junction she headed for the top of the Old Thirteen and then she was gone.<br />
<br />
Watch this space...Graham and Jill Findlayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12056676757141689845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7293977957539159441.post-3144950527305571662015-06-22T09:22:00.002+01:002015-06-22T09:24:43.872+01:00A new toy.First a tale of sadness and woe, a dear old friend has passed over to that great photo' shop in the sky. My loved and trusted Canon <i>SX </i>210 <i>IS </i>gave up the ghost last Thursday. I had been struggling with the zoom on it for a while and eventually the little button that worked became disconnected from the thrumble gromit or whatever it connected to and so, no zoom. Much tooth sucking from the chap in Jessops (Other camera shops are available) about the chance of repair and so; I am now the proud possessor of a Canon <i>SX </i>710 <i>HS.</i> If the old one was good this one is great. If I can ever translate the techno-babble of the on line manual it'll be amazing.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZYDrU0_ptO9eoGZcyviNSMxHnCXOm4uW8BZ0lcKIG96DnwAqEVTaFUdhFQ1dxznfT3WZyZpzS7XiiWZ8cj2ozu5Gv3rhALTu0q3ydnYk6vBs9JLU6sLsYfqgTTb13jbWN49T881b8I34/s1600/IMG_0021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZYDrU0_ptO9eoGZcyviNSMxHnCXOm4uW8BZ0lcKIG96DnwAqEVTaFUdhFQ1dxznfT3WZyZpzS7XiiWZ8cj2ozu5Gv3rhALTu0q3ydnYk6vBs9JLU6sLsYfqgTTb13jbWN49T881b8I34/s320/IMG_0021.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Birmingham Council House in Victoria Square. See the little semi-circle below the dome? Zoom in with the new camera.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI5jLm8ldRx_Iu5LxbFuYUgKxptQhdgdmOrsBR3yokBPSWWF8BN82oUrcXR1KYuY3MA8jeP2UGtLl5vvjhCGLesmbPJjmz3dLBeEg03nB_Za16hwbRctczHlBYe0hFP2w0Bilz8rl96p8/s1600/IMG_0023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI5jLm8ldRx_Iu5LxbFuYUgKxptQhdgdmOrsBR3yokBPSWWF8BN82oUrcXR1KYuY3MA8jeP2UGtLl5vvjhCGLesmbPJjmz3dLBeEg03nB_Za16hwbRctczHlBYe0hFP2w0Bilz8rl96p8/s320/IMG_0023.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Not bad eh?<br />
So here we are in Brindley Place opposite the revamped N.I.A. Now called the Barclaycard Arena.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoa5DUamf3jlAS7pDtt2yzPLLFCybDS9Piemcr5Va-yk375Q13Ia5CG22D7rLf1-6tnt9q7Auhl_lvlc6abi1l92o1zBuRXopBrPGHHeVWWcRQ1aQBX45Nr59bGSfxQhpD7TPv3t3HMm8/s1600/IMG_0009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoa5DUamf3jlAS7pDtt2yzPLLFCybDS9Piemcr5Va-yk375Q13Ia5CG22D7rLf1-6tnt9q7Auhl_lvlc6abi1l92o1zBuRXopBrPGHHeVWWcRQ1aQBX45Nr59bGSfxQhpD7TPv3t3HMm8/s320/IMG_0009.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Definitely an improvement on its stained concrete predecessor.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjdj0NVOvVJbsbwqVdBGsmeqXhoX7HAS-qWEJIkTOurVAWkTzXDDPdsXsWNcBAMvxG6huhDGZdNUO_buQ1_IiVVsYPa_bl2bWMkXTKhPqwZh76udnhbEPsbsIqjBGUI2F3vaNhWTlhY08/s1600/IMG_0019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjdj0NVOvVJbsbwqVdBGsmeqXhoX7HAS-qWEJIkTOurVAWkTzXDDPdsXsWNcBAMvxG6huhDGZdNUO_buQ1_IiVVsYPa_bl2bWMkXTKhPqwZh76udnhbEPsbsIqjBGUI2F3vaNhWTlhY08/s320/IMG_0019.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Inside the I.C.C. It was just the shapes that caught my eye.<br />
You will have to bear with me, I have a new toy and I'm playing.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil73bVTNpzjkz5F8ZPUu29Jvxvsu5Y8E_ecRHyufe_lUS7t_vVeLfLnHFwDBlafeob9HXUGXcFJt99WWiKA-Jpdp2WEMeo9uFfc61yDOvfSVFcoTs_0s8i-fv0YgzjVdu_KzS5vXMSxEQ/s1600/IMG_0012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil73bVTNpzjkz5F8ZPUu29Jvxvsu5Y8E_ecRHyufe_lUS7t_vVeLfLnHFwDBlafeob9HXUGXcFJt99WWiKA-Jpdp2WEMeo9uFfc61yDOvfSVFcoTs_0s8i-fv0YgzjVdu_KzS5vXMSxEQ/s320/IMG_0012.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Anyone fancy a new tiller pin. The chap assures me his prices are very reasonable.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVQrnN31iio02IaE0SHG9LxGrOJP7_W43Eo_nRKtSXGezfDzCd3HMKjRd15MhO6qSacTz_p8jKMWFizJUTOys8XH_nxOy3SsRsxm99TWKw2Blb75Nc0d65Ab7bRuSS1psEVjXAXCJor4U/s1600/IMG_0850.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVQrnN31iio02IaE0SHG9LxGrOJP7_W43Eo_nRKtSXGezfDzCd3HMKjRd15MhO6qSacTz_p8jKMWFizJUTOys8XH_nxOy3SsRsxm99TWKw2Blb75Nc0d65Ab7bRuSS1psEVjXAXCJor4U/s320/IMG_0850.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhilLZEMh9cBq96Lfz0sdkbUTH3eEh01C3ykOaTvmTRKSLJGC7sWcal8oo7XauJIXQO8p22YMhLBwa6M7VJEbosYhXoBeIxgUHMfoVIbaxqAV8KMEP8jpqbYxn__RvZM-LtuzeRjJnJ9Y0/s1600/IMG_0833.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhilLZEMh9cBq96Lfz0sdkbUTH3eEh01C3ykOaTvmTRKSLJGC7sWcal8oo7XauJIXQO8p22YMhLBwa6M7VJEbosYhXoBeIxgUHMfoVIbaxqAV8KMEP8jpqbYxn__RvZM-LtuzeRjJnJ9Y0/s320/IMG_0833.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Some of Brum's golden boys.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTPWHvsgg8GHwOLIPuofVruVD-Nd2949tPjfnzQrurDr9t3KZQKO8F-4KYr68fwbXuXUGGKSOGfe1QdRv9ZefjdTK60tKmVEyYryPaokfGrBz1UIXDzp26bhmTIzyJEbTtxP_BN6BEoh0/s1600/IMG_0028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTPWHvsgg8GHwOLIPuofVruVD-Nd2949tPjfnzQrurDr9t3KZQKO8F-4KYr68fwbXuXUGGKSOGfe1QdRv9ZefjdTK60tKmVEyYryPaokfGrBz1UIXDzp26bhmTIzyJEbTtxP_BN6BEoh0/s320/IMG_0028.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
So why is it there?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5nLBMN_AwyiZUWzrdqn2Y6AjdhxsLYhLEPXIutwNkuANgP8ONh19ywbVGYDeA4JemkiDQ3RrwUIbLKOljiYHsAAo61AGr5RyhRb6ZrRpqSj9yE-lxWSom5fPWytqwZ8_BozO8h7V4Lv4/s1600/IMG_0033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5nLBMN_AwyiZUWzrdqn2Y6AjdhxsLYhLEPXIutwNkuANgP8ONh19ywbVGYDeA4JemkiDQ3RrwUIbLKOljiYHsAAo61AGr5RyhRb6ZrRpqSj9yE-lxWSom5fPWytqwZ8_BozO8h7V4Lv4/s320/IMG_0033.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Decisions, decisions. Which pizza is it to be.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnuZkkD4ERYPOk3AnO4w-56Eo9tioWDcMmd0-C7UnxEW_qFPocUbiJCkKPZjuHd4gRt_e5JcyFa7bwCYk0_e3pYHMdnkC2GclGMNpq2Sjb2T3XotrDSitQaGF8j3LuEzDW6gFkssP3xg0/s1600/IMG_0035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnuZkkD4ERYPOk3AnO4w-56Eo9tioWDcMmd0-C7UnxEW_qFPocUbiJCkKPZjuHd4gRt_e5JcyFa7bwCYk0_e3pYHMdnkC2GclGMNpq2Sjb2T3XotrDSitQaGF8j3LuEzDW6gFkssP3xg0/s320/IMG_0035.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Decision made, just a quick slurp before the arrival of the American Hot.<br />
We move on tomorrow, heading for the North Stratford.<br />
<br />
Watch this space...<br />
<i><br /></i>Graham and Jill Findlayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12056676757141689845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7293977957539159441.post-73717456507617150932015-06-20T09:32:00.000+01:002015-06-20T09:32:17.651+01:00New Mainline and a salute to Caggy and Mac.Thursday was a move from the museum across to Brindley Place. Once called the Black Country it has changed colour, at least along the canals.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-B7lKt3DRVC-X9Q7oResqPPXUAuoBsdYfE3FgSxnnqayhUmOStELpSm2mxN7C4WsLmxU5_rc6_Muyi82F9wNvYT0z9JEO21xjd5es1xKvxwOT2eqVjAcp_u5pMpVsErZsbALL2Kr5B_M/s1600/IMG_0771.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-B7lKt3DRVC-X9Q7oResqPPXUAuoBsdYfE3FgSxnnqayhUmOStELpSm2mxN7C4WsLmxU5_rc6_Muyi82F9wNvYT0z9JEO21xjd5es1xKvxwOT2eqVjAcp_u5pMpVsErZsbALL2Kr5B_M/s320/IMG_0771.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Even the old gauging docks alongside Factory Locks now hide coyly behind a screen of trees.<br />
We had never noticed before but the footbridge across the tail of the bottom lock has a space under it on the nearside,<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeq6nSn-X7lSsAo1qqONgCUaAqoqFvbymSjpCtBSe53eZjuVChMOKI_qYoKHESfx7XHCJHN_9X9O_MhfW2lR8Y2rWFLx5XBU1sTrzdnfdidqyZc1A1VPHYRRJ0_5yN6nBtBZHP3bkHlHs/s1600/IMG_0777.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeq6nSn-X7lSsAo1qqONgCUaAqoqFvbymSjpCtBSe53eZjuVChMOKI_qYoKHESfx7XHCJHN_9X9O_MhfW2lR8Y2rWFLx5XBU1sTrzdnfdidqyZc1A1VPHYRRJ0_5yN6nBtBZHP3bkHlHs/s320/IMG_0777.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
presumably to pass the tow line on the horse drawn boats.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxCZh5JGMdddw-qITTEP4wxEMDTejckRBa_LPnNkkp2OlDRgA4l36Zk5SmPZlwOzPhdebY7vFzN3B8_xyj5jQ4v8tgFB_Ivuz2O-UW8MlkQ_YpAfN1VpfmqkyRDO58fFmhkBUCn4ZnYUE/s1600/IMG_0778.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxCZh5JGMdddw-qITTEP4wxEMDTejckRBa_LPnNkkp2OlDRgA4l36Zk5SmPZlwOzPhdebY7vFzN3B8_xyj5jQ4v8tgFB_Ivuz2O-UW8MlkQ_YpAfN1VpfmqkyRDO58fFmhkBUCn4ZnYUE/s320/IMG_0778.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
It's not far from the locks to Caggy's Boatyard. Caggy Stevens was probably the last boatman on the canals to use horses as motive power, I believe his last horse was called Mac who died in 1977. We'll not see their likes again. The boatyard is the remains of the Tipton Green and Toll End Communication Canal which crossed the New Mainline here, at Watery Junction.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimQ2i49mEu8K4x6llpYb-VbYZTrhxeHDwB8veT2oSSvX_ubZCd87_9KWSVJ8ZE2CmtvcW89RuBaA286_ef2WO_iMgVhBH_T7MeS0Tzedv_CyrIQ8-I6pncQNLZwFj2ItlSFq8nrotyNC8/s1600/IMG_0791.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimQ2i49mEu8K4x6llpYb-VbYZTrhxeHDwB8veT2oSSvX_ubZCd87_9KWSVJ8ZE2CmtvcW89RuBaA286_ef2WO_iMgVhBH_T7MeS0Tzedv_CyrIQ8-I6pncQNLZwFj2ItlSFq8nrotyNC8/s320/IMG_0791.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Spon Lane Locks, claimed to be the oldest flight on the B.C.N., now looking almost rural.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp7U-th7EG1IbBaRDZK2zdS7tfGply1AbXBW5FfKR_TI6y1P-E6zlV5WIFL7j9r31jIrXaeSN-ew78yGBxeBZBiCOOxmKIg1YddoV59UEGgBqgzpNSkcV0rWyoGqyzSCEDSP4agPZUkKk/s1600/IMG_0794.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp7U-th7EG1IbBaRDZK2zdS7tfGply1AbXBW5FfKR_TI6y1P-E6zlV5WIFL7j9r31jIrXaeSN-ew78yGBxeBZBiCOOxmKIg1YddoV59UEGgBqgzpNSkcV0rWyoGqyzSCEDSP4agPZUkKk/s320/IMG_0794.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKeI3pP_8PAIUPlbvKOYwZCNELJtyuhnZM5mbS_UWS7L-0FnP6YXRvwekIe6rWUwVrYxTdtJiUbCESJN11HLqHA3sIcwWE9XVkJsQr9L18IuT-8nbkUHg-QUd8l3usQt4vPpoLDv4ge9A/s1600/IMG_0809.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKeI3pP_8PAIUPlbvKOYwZCNELJtyuhnZM5mbS_UWS7L-0FnP6YXRvwekIe6rWUwVrYxTdtJiUbCESJN11HLqHA3sIcwWE9XVkJsQr9L18IuT-8nbkUHg-QUd8l3usQt4vPpoLDv4ge9A/s320/IMG_0809.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDIkeTw_-0z2sjIbPO5Nec35OcyHaPQ0Hn-xnEXP0xalEtlGztHFk58r2BkjprofxhtF29NCAMqVacIKPZcKDv1Pf3hqlg5bHMR8rYOUt8s-eW0z-FvHcd_mY8U4IJj1D7c1QqXdzaYQE/s1600/IMG_0818.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDIkeTw_-0z2sjIbPO5Nec35OcyHaPQ0Hn-xnEXP0xalEtlGztHFk58r2BkjprofxhtF29NCAMqVacIKPZcKDv1Pf3hqlg5bHMR8rYOUt8s-eW0z-FvHcd_mY8U4IJj1D7c1QqXdzaYQE/s320/IMG_0818.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
The greening continues all along the New Mainline.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjchTLiVLk6A5_nWmw8FPG5BCYg9eYXRUzNOLMF3yNTHqY88OrspQqrS87CClDSYH4akKCcBlYN_NKllgIGnkVOscKXQ-CNhY6yT7e2iKrd8RSAO301bMTZE4O7bIuuCt3cRM3OxNrhGE/s1600/IMG_0799.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjchTLiVLk6A5_nWmw8FPG5BCYg9eYXRUzNOLMF3yNTHqY88OrspQqrS87CClDSYH4akKCcBlYN_NKllgIGnkVOscKXQ-CNhY6yT7e2iKrd8RSAO301bMTZE4O7bIuuCt3cRM3OxNrhGE/s320/IMG_0799.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiASYhi_QKxS-w1ZBxihLakuqABO4K1QeDzYYqT8RZjQx3UElfcmkwF9JSyanCTpq-uwWWIIPzi43feC0IGoHGItoCpFWkaVXWq2HppXR-4dWeSwag9uG1rtEDTRFbki1FBsP6kKLrzHTs/s1600/IMG_0800.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiASYhi_QKxS-w1ZBxihLakuqABO4K1QeDzYYqT8RZjQx3UElfcmkwF9JSyanCTpq-uwWWIIPzi43feC0IGoHGItoCpFWkaVXWq2HppXR-4dWeSwag9uG1rtEDTRFbki1FBsP6kKLrzHTs/s320/IMG_0800.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Mind you it's not all a bucolic retreat, stark modernity intrudes in places.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinN35JRk4QEVmwbmZ1b-yKM2rtvGjLgzF6R3d7yHIZaK84hQVXliibDws1HJ2A3NbcZIbRIq-F40cqfbkKH57FFxv52bsmU7LGwinlNTVpMxMlxV5JG-RQMqHDrM4z6mmwJyquEkn_8GQ/s1600/IMG_0798.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinN35JRk4QEVmwbmZ1b-yKM2rtvGjLgzF6R3d7yHIZaK84hQVXliibDws1HJ2A3NbcZIbRIq-F40cqfbkKH57FFxv52bsmU7LGwinlNTVpMxMlxV5JG-RQMqHDrM4z6mmwJyquEkn_8GQ/s320/IMG_0798.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
But even the concrete monster that is the M6 is becoming shrouded in green.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyJPAhl9UYmZeVGKPF-3Z40UCPytT3kT9iDdjb27rs8Zqk_ZjPAWz7tm0cLGl_VOKBDgDSnwkEJdy68z5A-HBlAdVluTBxc0IT5yJmsnmog1Hz2zFtIfEdmk1q3peLCMVmF4kTJ2hUqmE/s1600/IMG_0822.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyJPAhl9UYmZeVGKPF-3Z40UCPytT3kT9iDdjb27rs8Zqk_ZjPAWz7tm0cLGl_VOKBDgDSnwkEJdy68z5A-HBlAdVluTBxc0IT5yJmsnmog1Hz2zFtIfEdmk1q3peLCMVmF4kTJ2hUqmE/s320/IMG_0822.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIDuC9CBNVxY5A3MRT0FdmB1NZNykooKeHYl3tAdi41wLDUmTuhkDsJbTVpRCdoseuojxRuMaWOwh-jSGT5jt01bmUdssYaPIWmzzwHWsLAQY62Jwv2uuq69dB8Lc-HlfKBXPLr24-O-k/s1600/IMG_0823.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIDuC9CBNVxY5A3MRT0FdmB1NZNykooKeHYl3tAdi41wLDUmTuhkDsJbTVpRCdoseuojxRuMaWOwh-jSGT5jt01bmUdssYaPIWmzzwHWsLAQY62Jwv2uuq69dB8Lc-HlfKBXPLr24-O-k/s320/IMG_0823.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
The Engine Arm Aqueduct and Smethwick Junction and then it was only just under an hour and we were in Brummagem. More about that later.<br />
<br />
Watch this space...Graham and Jill Findlayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12056676757141689845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7293977957539159441.post-32616216748679804472015-06-18T20:45:00.000+01:002015-06-18T23:27:10.765+01:00Up the 'ampton 21Yesterday morning at five o'clock? Wasn't that the first line of The Beatles song "She's leaving home"? That's as maybe but I was up and doing at that ungodly hour and by 06:<strike>40,</strike> sorry, that was a typo, should read 06:10, we were heading south.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMyn5AFH-vYonj0UzYmy9LNQh0OViVVUUrGwQcvOYSW_DoWom3aUnZGjnhZdy7isMc4_OYEaBv0J7Gi4rQwjIUluOuSfO1d5mJuS-xK99se0e3OdeWY-mi1CO2_oyYKxsGZ9rgvfsL2Fw/s1600/IMG_0689.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMyn5AFH-vYonj0UzYmy9LNQh0OViVVUUrGwQcvOYSW_DoWom3aUnZGjnhZdy7isMc4_OYEaBv0J7Gi4rQwjIUluOuSfO1d5mJuS-xK99se0e3OdeWY-mi1CO2_oyYKxsGZ9rgvfsL2Fw/s320/IMG_0689.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
First stop was the 6" stop lock at Cut End. Originally put in to prevent the Shropshire Union stealing the water of the Staffs & Worcs. Now it provides great amusement during busy times with boats coming at the junction from three different directions. It gets even more exciting when the nearby boatyard is sending out it's hire boats.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6acz32rXwHkZmlQl6lwuAoHxuGfaceWLcGD6qEZXGyLrFHx_bA3Eg6gHVptq5usWysgIsw8Y7TZ5PwLQTkiODdH19oeIeb3EAm3HPXPgXVTH0ufkQlZx72qJGD2XpswmWfkJrtVJWPsA/s1600/IMG_0694.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6acz32rXwHkZmlQl6lwuAoHxuGfaceWLcGD6qEZXGyLrFHx_bA3Eg6gHVptq5usWysgIsw8Y7TZ5PwLQTkiODdH19oeIeb3EAm3HPXPgXVTH0ufkQlZx72qJGD2XpswmWfkJrtVJWPsA/s320/IMG_0694.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
The monkeys on the railway viaduct are getting overgrown with ivy. When does graffiti become art?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_sbGn-98MlcVYehVKPi0dnNarddy1a7ik5jbCzUmFVI0CfHHbOLZX_vn3zncW9lFuzIVKOXgWe0XhJSUskSS5B3J_AqeBgDnJQwdQeNidH3aD9Gnt8cgaPaMquBDpdzYefZOQiCx7BhI/s1600/IMG_0698.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_sbGn-98MlcVYehVKPi0dnNarddy1a7ik5jbCzUmFVI0CfHHbOLZX_vn3zncW9lFuzIVKOXgWe0XhJSUskSS5B3J_AqeBgDnJQwdQeNidH3aD9Gnt8cgaPaMquBDpdzYefZOQiCx7BhI/s320/IMG_0698.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
At Addersley Junction it's a quick left onto the B.C.N. and the first of the twenty-one Wolverhampton locks.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDqcAdxIdf4URiqOrQf7FVqsw2dI3EXNQCuJqBei4oaYI_TwOSu5T5AO6XRZ0aIHe1VT6tIVGqxAxz3ryTqoALOu7HQkrOQzM09DBnX1JtVqKiF0UEIVO_5wa-vBkr9NR9cVZ5LJIWZAQ/s1600/IMG_0700.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDqcAdxIdf4URiqOrQf7FVqsw2dI3EXNQCuJqBei4oaYI_TwOSu5T5AO6XRZ0aIHe1VT6tIVGqxAxz3ryTqoALOu7HQkrOQzM09DBnX1JtVqKiF0UEIVO_5wa-vBkr9NR9cVZ5LJIWZAQ/s320/IMG_0700.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Why the Wolverhampton Round Table donated twenty-one locks as this sign claims is a complete mystery.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVRfl5DzDhfwqkac8owA4yqlE8t6Ph-W2KY0ScoDAwLgZvp1EsRn-z32vz4ax7EbYfrWQd6SCNrVNG5t3pDxn3SHXyVLQHRKR3AVVoSsZaHPxBVOroaScmF_-eI6VT9RE1v3tJ9VBT_Hw/s1600/IMG_0702.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVRfl5DzDhfwqkac8owA4yqlE8t6Ph-W2KY0ScoDAwLgZvp1EsRn-z32vz4ax7EbYfrWQd6SCNrVNG5t3pDxn3SHXyVLQHRKR3AVVoSsZaHPxBVOroaScmF_-eI6VT9RE1v3tJ9VBT_Hw/s320/IMG_0702.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
At the second lock, number twenty as the locks are numbered from the top down, we were met by a C&RT chap who gloomily informed us that the pounds were down due to vandalism but his mates would soon be at the top letting down more water. We had noticed a sad lack of the wet stuff by this time but by taking it slowly we managed to make progress.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYifGpPpF5DtgyQ9FkRaKyUGmIZBa1-yLgU_K6CpZhlo_HqdJ2injOgPzbeszfh1HoNqhyphenhyphenVGg2EmtD18Y0MhIyj19l5cPfhBAO9j6LR2hguhuE8ch_q2pSDrdgFPBbF8S4MjcAyMxwMWE/s1600/IMG_0705.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYifGpPpF5DtgyQ9FkRaKyUGmIZBa1-yLgU_K6CpZhlo_HqdJ2injOgPzbeszfh1HoNqhyphenhyphenVGg2EmtD18Y0MhIyj19l5cPfhBAO9j6LR2hguhuE8ch_q2pSDrdgFPBbF8S4MjcAyMxwMWE/s320/IMG_0705.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Lock seventeen is overlooked by an impressive railway viaduct that still carries major traffic. I just liked the way the shapes played off of each other.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Wn1pOBXg7k1htlsTDg6_onHEUvAHTe9BYpyIJMYzM8xbQAlz29bdXhLNSg9EgZQlfgn40LP2sSi4gQVnDkwJ58dIxi_pBABVnN2jTTKBPtIwSs0esKp6ipNjVi8Ksqt12lURVASmTgQ/s1600/IMG_0704.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Wn1pOBXg7k1htlsTDg6_onHEUvAHTe9BYpyIJMYzM8xbQAlz29bdXhLNSg9EgZQlfgn40LP2sSi4gQVnDkwJ58dIxi_pBABVnN2jTTKBPtIwSs0esKp6ipNjVi8Ksqt12lURVASmTgQ/s320/IMG_0704.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
As we approached lock fifteen things were getting decidedly sticky and then at<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGz9ug15eutlfD3rnJ8aJEiSTYEhjWDRzqzU2Sf8C4JWeSyzrjHaKmRVqB-LD6pUzzvBsL5NqXCWVxCCz-SHD2o8rZP4nMjSiDvIGNwlVP2W54Cn60ogoRMW_QM1qrZ-YiGpnt1bncIv4/s1600/IMG_0710.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGz9ug15eutlfD3rnJ8aJEiSTYEhjWDRzqzU2Sf8C4JWeSyzrjHaKmRVqB-LD6pUzzvBsL5NqXCWVxCCz-SHD2o8rZP4nMjSiDvIGNwlVP2W54Cn60ogoRMW_QM1qrZ-YiGpnt1bncIv4/s320/IMG_0710.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
we ground to a halt.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifGzF9gbKo3vB72o4dGYA9feXv3WOVdyalB8hUBpFjLyeVylEjUkTUnJi16EpZtWZX1EPhEbebxiwaSBOezptN8249nUsLfI5mN4YIWjOy_lGVJBCU0q7hyCYGqxQoicH9wc7pEEAOp6c/s1600/IMG_0711.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifGzF9gbKo3vB72o4dGYA9feXv3WOVdyalB8hUBpFjLyeVylEjUkTUnJi16EpZtWZX1EPhEbebxiwaSBOezptN8249nUsLfI5mN4YIWjOy_lGVJBCU0q7hyCYGqxQoicH9wc7pEEAOp6c/s320/IMG_0711.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Well and truly stemmed up. Fortunately the next pound had a little surplus water which Jill let down and I scraped over the cill and into the lock.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjK9_Vk2JQ3YGzwb1tNDbsrNgtWFekg9TjSYUj3RDHaGvX4W8bpTaAFttlEvaTnat1Z6U4zEs5Bo7vWWbfDjPovJpyEYCkiHi3k_OTsiAbloULu2rxBNBZpNWZkj7rrAw8TTlBXIDuKSw/s1600/IMG_0714.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjK9_Vk2JQ3YGzwb1tNDbsrNgtWFekg9TjSYUj3RDHaGvX4W8bpTaAFttlEvaTnat1Z6U4zEs5Bo7vWWbfDjPovJpyEYCkiHi3k_OTsiAbloULu2rxBNBZpNWZkj7rrAw8TTlBXIDuKSw/s320/IMG_0714.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
But then, below lock fourteen, a sight to gladden the heart of any boater, water was coming down the by-wash, our C&RT heroes were letting water down from the summit and it had finally reached us. the rest of the flight was a doddle.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs44Xs-jFdBYmuTN2yGFR2nwS1KDYpr-pV8BDQ5ke3gM_0belKUDaHHchpYJaP9owUGpHm9yB4GVrqeCI_Mcd9bBk88Mict7ccRPmywMXFf-2ruVGiKCInQ5zwIda5QM14XnBE8UD1KtM/s1600/IMG_0719.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs44Xs-jFdBYmuTN2yGFR2nwS1KDYpr-pV8BDQ5ke3gM_0belKUDaHHchpYJaP9owUGpHm9yB4GVrqeCI_Mcd9bBk88Mict7ccRPmywMXFf-2ruVGiKCInQ5zwIda5QM14XnBE8UD1KtM/s320/IMG_0719.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
The municipal incinerator still wafts it's delectable perfumes over the local area.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1lW8B1MeP-y8X_roSRf1zBoQljJrndlHWrzillCyLNWWi2gn3dC3eEi1tE0-3iMMdU0i2fZkcLataHfHY-q8qxwZi5EFJ9szapev-IXx__DyRc4JrF4WqY4z_3_2qxB9A6Tzxn5rD_TU/s1600/IMG_0723.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1lW8B1MeP-y8X_roSRf1zBoQljJrndlHWrzillCyLNWWi2gn3dC3eEi1tE0-3iMMdU0i2fZkcLataHfHY-q8qxwZi5EFJ9szapev-IXx__DyRc4JrF4WqY4z_3_2qxB9A6Tzxn5rD_TU/s320/IMG_0723.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqxCA_OILeGBKidBwQYmOWZY7Hh5HD_WMNKbCbc7P3qU1aeQw9Qd5qEK9hZ4hwm9Wo45aXtMajR3WY12e7FJ7ZjMJGj0V2XBXPcQVuq2HOzXDdNtb_OcSx3I9yVusmQRAUfifsUx_qzAg/s1600/IMG_0722.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqxCA_OILeGBKidBwQYmOWZY7Hh5HD_WMNKbCbc7P3qU1aeQw9Qd5qEK9hZ4hwm9Wo45aXtMajR3WY12e7FJ7ZjMJGj0V2XBXPcQVuq2HOzXDdNtb_OcSx3I9yVusmQRAUfifsUx_qzAg/s320/IMG_0722.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
We were not sorry to see this. After all one can have too much of a good thing.<br />
Having arrived at the Wolverhampton level we set off for the Black Country Museum.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPnyl_7an3xMpAgeA6JX-jQ8xsgKnHck2oOCXRnqzJj3BuE5jsmQLiWd2juZzLTIPKKx6lZvYkAJszYpkzv8JYkpnv0u6msm72ZDAQDUT50c6EaqVdVOvPVTHgwXKwtHpH7Tnt-dSyGwA/s1600/IMG_0770.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPnyl_7an3xMpAgeA6JX-jQ8xsgKnHck2oOCXRnqzJj3BuE5jsmQLiWd2juZzLTIPKKx6lZvYkAJszYpkzv8JYkpnv0u6msm72ZDAQDUT50c6EaqVdVOvPVTHgwXKwtHpH7Tnt-dSyGwA/s320/IMG_0770.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Always glad to arrive here. So having pinched the last but one mooring spot we nipped in through the back gate of the museum and into the Bottle and Glass for a couple of reviving beers and then up to the fish and chip shop for cod and chips, cooked correctly in beef dripping.<br />
I shall tell of today's journey tomorrow. Well I like to keep my readers on tenterhooks.<br />
<br />
Watch this space...Graham and Jill Findlayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12056676757141689845noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7293977957539159441.post-41005809771134995972015-06-16T16:55:00.000+01:002015-06-16T16:55:05.123+01:00Chicanes and orbital sanders.Having enjoyed an, as always, excellent curry at the Curry Inn on Sunday night, yesterday we moved all of a mile and a half south to the S.U.C.S. moorings between bridges seven and eight.<br />
C&RT have introduced a new game at bridge eight, just to make life more exciting they have installed<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLAMciZEOVqZFjeJw1WpASkwFayxwG2hHRdq0GR_DIE5nZMcLtc-SWDO_N1WUuvpRUsPiP1Lt0S3vRuZfD7MAYzwJff6XCTAWTszPVT_fOAVendCDMoH3_z6YpcYniX3kmnYAK8gq6HP4/s1600/IMG_0682.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLAMciZEOVqZFjeJw1WpASkwFayxwG2hHRdq0GR_DIE5nZMcLtc-SWDO_N1WUuvpRUsPiP1Lt0S3vRuZfD7MAYzwJff6XCTAWTszPVT_fOAVendCDMoH3_z6YpcYniX3kmnYAK8gq6HP4/s320/IMG_0682.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
a chicane.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidetTnvy-hI4lZ4WZzaAzZjkzoyY63RWo28yPl4AS8nGgYo0N79mn1BiKVNyagey9XJQ8-R-cHHr2XZPxLz122lfKAc4A6Mymlr3V8LDfeDtiynp7WZqkteFfXFtlXHmVJMCJhN9QC6MY/s1600/IMG_0683.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidetTnvy-hI4lZ4WZzaAzZjkzoyY63RWo28yPl4AS8nGgYo0N79mn1BiKVNyagey9XJQ8-R-cHHr2XZPxLz122lfKAc4A6Mymlr3V8LDfeDtiynp7WZqkteFfXFtlXHmVJMCJhN9QC6MY/s320/IMG_0683.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxPzMgo0MCb8PMuZPfEAXTD_LHrPg5BclPCEPy_IZNFp7eBfbxY1t0rS4Bx34dRdm2ZrJu2qTEYBM8_woAQ44SxsIUTFhZMle3bjrcVO_id-ZCrEa9JoBdbAOsvZUsw-ViTbZBkf8aqoA/s1600/IMG_0685.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxPzMgo0MCb8PMuZPfEAXTD_LHrPg5BclPCEPy_IZNFp7eBfbxY1t0rS4Bx34dRdm2ZrJu2qTEYBM8_woAQ44SxsIUTFhZMle3bjrcVO_id-ZCrEa9JoBdbAOsvZUsw-ViTbZBkf8aqoA/s320/IMG_0685.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
It really makes life interesting as you come through the bridge, especially if there is a boat coming in the opposite direction. From the amount of algae on it it has been there for a while and it could become a real problem as it moves up and down as boats pass and if it slips down into the navigable channel...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiznVJ9L_z8YqaZpfbhxW1SEnH536sjvtegDsCwGfZ74KGDqDYr_We9_G2yr6XpWQqhv3JJibfgV8m0DcSjjZdfJ27DYP7G9OeOEtSQPKsQJ8Sj-5F9K3Zh6HT2KHkmGsMmWQNnKq0GUS0/s1600/IMG_0686.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiznVJ9L_z8YqaZpfbhxW1SEnH536sjvtegDsCwGfZ74KGDqDYr_We9_G2yr6XpWQqhv3JJibfgV8m0DcSjjZdfJ27DYP7G9OeOEtSQPKsQJ8Sj-5F9K3Zh6HT2KHkmGsMmWQNnKq0GUS0/s320/IMG_0686.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Is it summer at last? Jill took the opportunity to give the washing machine a quick burst and then adorn the towpath while it dried.<br />
As for me, well I took the table out onto the bank, dug the orbital sander out from it's hidey hole, blew the dust off it and, after discovering that the sand paper strips, "Fit all makes" it said on the packet, didn't fit; I cut up several sheets of abrasive and took the old varnish off the table top and gave it a couple of fresh coats.<br />
Chicanes and orbital sanders, what an exciting life we lead.<br />
<br />
Watch this space...Graham and Jill Findlayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12056676757141689845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7293977957539159441.post-31751492171930373012015-06-13T15:38:00.000+01:002015-06-13T15:38:06.658+01:00Loafing at Little Onn.We've had a few days away, that's my excuse and I'm sticking to it. Family birthday so we left the boat at Norbury, hired a car and headed off to Aston, it's hardly on the map but it's near Frodsham. Excellent weekend and if you're ever in Frodsham go for a beer in the Helter Skelter, a superb real ale pub.<br />
Having retrieved the boat we headed off to one of our favourite moorings, Little Onn. In fact we have now been sitting here for three days.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGVsmkumgy1CLjMgvft8HGM9yFxZG9nNcinbmoagy0g6OzfJkqVQkIH39dzXz3GQ-E96tanYQArJVRZ6FFT6gRBOgA0tsXbfZbYDvS4EFdb4oTX1zqwedt1-aHtK_7oCBUL_1-tKOfr3c/s1600/IMG_0659.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGVsmkumgy1CLjMgvft8HGM9yFxZG9nNcinbmoagy0g6OzfJkqVQkIH39dzXz3GQ-E96tanYQArJVRZ6FFT6gRBOgA0tsXbfZbYDvS4EFdb4oTX1zqwedt1-aHtK_7oCBUL_1-tKOfr3c/s320/IMG_0659.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Yesterday, while the sun shone we set off for a stroll around the environs, up the towpath we came to Rye Hill Cutting Bridge which, on the Ordnance Survey map, has a clearly marked footpath heading east. Wrong, it peters out after a couple of hundred yards, firmly blocked by growing crops.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisL_9FIR9k5LB1EzPVsCkrzHQ6hYxEL0yHbNf57xz_LBgZn6r8gSrHe09sAesCqm5KLWTXAHv-QXqybJ0DSJguBmH_8XCcCLQDWDcEYZlsRfrEyR6z0pxIPmTT5EP9PjcHANSeY29PiWg/s1600/IMG_0660.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisL_9FIR9k5LB1EzPVsCkrzHQ6hYxEL0yHbNf57xz_LBgZn6r8gSrHe09sAesCqm5KLWTXAHv-QXqybJ0DSJguBmH_8XCcCLQDWDcEYZlsRfrEyR6z0pxIPmTT5EP9PjcHANSeY29PiWg/s320/IMG_0660.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Broad beans, pity they are not ready for picking.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN4jfoSmwIjNLzh8h63Uv6moiA-_6Qc4XBcWDCHqnscIPu-dHWbdzvgae19_kFCNUsB4NS14eN0NUoM0wvGkfrSsERUYL4of032m0c9H9R8_vFKbhRJ_d_i5sCOJzT5-IWkXJhW02SUrI/s1600/IMG_0663.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN4jfoSmwIjNLzh8h63Uv6moiA-_6Qc4XBcWDCHqnscIPu-dHWbdzvgae19_kFCNUsB4NS14eN0NUoM0wvGkfrSsERUYL4of032m0c9H9R8_vFKbhRJ_d_i5sCOJzT5-IWkXJhW02SUrI/s320/IMG_0663.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
So we went on to the next bridge and headed off down a country lane.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYgDmLJQtiJOBjfUHj36aaUnD5nFcb8hHPOOHJAZEeWgl4_JQVItIQIU7M0vyEQzDR2ekrkNJy4NnHIBQIR4X_ckGHCTJ2LbnWRMnGPQqM4ftqGv8zDGTAVi20sOZVLFyqBNlAwABpGXA/s1600/IMG_0666.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYgDmLJQtiJOBjfUHj36aaUnD5nFcb8hHPOOHJAZEeWgl4_JQVItIQIU7M0vyEQzDR2ekrkNJy4NnHIBQIR4X_ckGHCTJ2LbnWRMnGPQqM4ftqGv8zDGTAVi20sOZVLFyqBNlAwABpGXA/s320/IMG_0666.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
We revelled in the dappled shade between the hedgerows heavy with<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWpy5KTCg-qSe_3GL5hFNnE1GQjenyT4Iyeu-r6hXAePPPHtwIuKdAhy9xe-zYMcZ9puWQnvpAEXdx1W3BEvLdnmMbUJE57MPD-yWpIcbI44CAFNMNE3SsRhHmT24xNC7Z1GH-OxDRHlM/s1600/IMG_0664.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWpy5KTCg-qSe_3GL5hFNnE1GQjenyT4Iyeu-r6hXAePPPHtwIuKdAhy9xe-zYMcZ9puWQnvpAEXdx1W3BEvLdnmMbUJE57MPD-yWpIcbI44CAFNMNE3SsRhHmT24xNC7Z1GH-OxDRHlM/s320/IMG_0664.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
wild woodbine (Nothing to do with the cheap ciggies of fond memory) and<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLRCE93dE14-Hs5IHIubhqMUF2xgXPxYAydDss5gohjkj6rbRZ7y06-h6ZIkiPW5rZCfPBIuYVq7FDQXjYwWxH1kmPUI2h-gD_xKkKzX2DbWj3T-stFFAEGWR3Tmrfs2T-J8tCYXm8xts/s1600/IMG_0669.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLRCE93dE14-Hs5IHIubhqMUF2xgXPxYAydDss5gohjkj6rbRZ7y06-h6ZIkiPW5rZCfPBIuYVq7FDQXjYwWxH1kmPUI2h-gD_xKkKzX2DbWj3T-stFFAEGWR3Tmrfs2T-J8tCYXm8xts/s320/IMG_0669.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
dog roses.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhANj3ICP7siakFM58Zi3XQAurneg7vYrbtFzchBAtCx7MvvbJK62xaszHEHKfxoLcBUCuU3ZqKA_-3ITsjVkmCWY1XiPsa5FYhFkFcZNbzOR99_Nm0BNqwyl5PNUoWXrYoEhGuNSCjabg/s1600/IMG_0671.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhANj3ICP7siakFM58Zi3XQAurneg7vYrbtFzchBAtCx7MvvbJK62xaszHEHKfxoLcBUCuU3ZqKA_-3ITsjVkmCWY1XiPsa5FYhFkFcZNbzOR99_Nm0BNqwyl5PNUoWXrYoEhGuNSCjabg/s320/IMG_0671.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
At Church Eaton we passed the ancient edifice that gives the village it's name. It has the most amazing east Window,<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUTVupHsIhGDAzuCkf3YSpS5JZFOQIiWRM04zA97z4N3BVjLtkJXZdilyBFzI0nPujxLVw4lTv5G-kkVMvLEwsxN9a3Eq3Adx08D8JizLE7-omvco0yCl3jPE1rCwk4vYgqPcuCdYEc88/s1600/IMG_0672.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUTVupHsIhGDAzuCkf3YSpS5JZFOQIiWRM04zA97z4N3BVjLtkJXZdilyBFzI0nPujxLVw4lTv5G-kkVMvLEwsxN9a3Eq3Adx08D8JizLE7-omvco0yCl3jPE1rCwk4vYgqPcuCdYEc88/s320/IMG_0672.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
It virtually fills the entire east wall,<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZt7eWouecpC4N8z_DwR3FhNYgUgPhX-P4rfT1o9OLBKby7pFKo2ZoqC-kJJ37LZ06sbEo13Yr-LLOTDLVL6jObsGprrRHo_GVKesBLGYn6qmSXQOSYRHvixObCpoebEgbHxct7Ttn2h8/s1600/IMG_0673.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZt7eWouecpC4N8z_DwR3FhNYgUgPhX-P4rfT1o9OLBKby7pFKo2ZoqC-kJJ37LZ06sbEo13Yr-LLOTDLVL6jObsGprrRHo_GVKesBLGYn6qmSXQOSYRHvixObCpoebEgbHxct7Ttn2h8/s320/IMG_0673.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
well worth a look.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTBJmle3hBdjtPG2WtfDUuKPpRqtm8lZeHtoOKZ4rYX2U3uvwWnqrWnTY73b-rArYjgPSK8nJZ4sUfZ8CILmd1Ixr_Rs5KR6MyugTKCy0F6HXfVB8cz32XL_wXoec_A_4A35rV9P3Fk6Q/s1600/IMG_0677.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTBJmle3hBdjtPG2WtfDUuKPpRqtm8lZeHtoOKZ4rYX2U3uvwWnqrWnTY73b-rArYjgPSK8nJZ4sUfZ8CILmd1Ixr_Rs5KR6MyugTKCy0F6HXfVB8cz32XL_wXoec_A_4A35rV9P3Fk6Q/s320/IMG_0677.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Then it was back to the boat, we have had the mooring to ourselves all the time we have been here, wonderful. Today we are sitting out the rain. Brewood tomorrow, Curry Inn here we come.<br />
<br />
Watch this space...Graham and Jill Findlayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12056676757141689845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7293977957539159441.post-24763449953105654952015-06-01T13:25:00.001+01:002015-06-01T13:25:21.894+01:00Along the Shroppie, again.I think I must be suffering from writers block, having real trouble getting round to updating the blog. I think it's because we seem to have been just going up and down since October and I've run out of things to say about the Shroppie.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik4tdRFkUS3TCopcx9zpmaH-e-R1hY4Uzfk41zyIE8rvVgDbnmZsQ4M5lqNdxJQfMXx_ixJIG5jL6gG1yFoFWsk60cOUGyA7fhay8elxlxPeX1JtZMhiZfBJ6sp2apHrrJ89LbWX5cGK4/s1600/IMG_0608.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik4tdRFkUS3TCopcx9zpmaH-e-R1hY4Uzfk41zyIE8rvVgDbnmZsQ4M5lqNdxJQfMXx_ixJIG5jL6gG1yFoFWsk60cOUGyA7fhay8elxlxPeX1JtZMhiZfBJ6sp2apHrrJ89LbWX5cGK4/s320/IMG_0608.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Well we cleared the Middlewich Arm last Wednesday, that's me putting the world to rights with other boaters at Cholmondeston Lock. After a quick stop at Nantwich we headed off towards Hack Green. Friends of ours had broken down just above the locks and were running out of food so we took them some Red Cross parcels. Total collapse of gear box and miles from shops etc. Hopefully repairs will be done by tomorrow.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS_TsxsIyUG9huRkFngT4MdXklHk7DkCSovQyvozBZ1AMKoF-2-rT-D_iIWw4zEJfzGEwiJ6INVr7lqY4KbVQoAi5PwsPFq9to_EXzPHpfwcfYablk0uR89_LTpcd3ECqemT_IHz7yUlk/s1600/IMG_0618.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS_TsxsIyUG9huRkFngT4MdXklHk7DkCSovQyvozBZ1AMKoF-2-rT-D_iIWw4zEJfzGEwiJ6INVr7lqY4KbVQoAi5PwsPFq9to_EXzPHpfwcfYablk0uR89_LTpcd3ECqemT_IHz7yUlk/s320/IMG_0618.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXaJd4h2R4pU6K3TkWE6Wiu0gJcha3T8BZZ0FUaKf_KVcWP9QyaUjHOW2K06VYCW1RUdQi_9nFccevCA7q5JNmrwJWVTqprJytLyOY3YX6X7N_XO2oJOCLvXNazde4tMvjAedsp2oBLLI/s1600/IMG_0620.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXaJd4h2R4pU6K3TkWE6Wiu0gJcha3T8BZZ0FUaKf_KVcWP9QyaUjHOW2K06VYCW1RUdQi_9nFccevCA7q5JNmrwJWVTqprJytLyOY3YX6X7N_XO2oJOCLvXNazde4tMvjAedsp2oBLLI/s320/IMG_0620.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Saturday was an early start from Audlem. We were the first on the flight so had it in our favour most of the way up but we did meet a couple of boats coming down. The steerer of one was obviously unfamiliar with the etiquette of lock flights. First he turned the lock ahead of us and then, when he had descended he just sat in the lock, apparently he was expecting me to come out of my lock and go into the side and allow him to come down while I waited. He was quite disgruntled when I just waited out in the pound and he actually had to pass me while I was moving. I wonder if he expects every boat he meets to pull into the side to allow him to pass. And no, he wasn't a hire boater.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeh5Y5LMiRoI6r53vjkBM3lSX07M15ew4W-cypgBX6GiadP9B2j20C9V9-YIZ1rpLU6g_-GB2DAzrR31ue_QxW-479nvn6kH8ogZbGxbbucILJbZ5X4R3rogHHy7b9XRg1CqMA3Ue3e2s/s1600/IMG_0623.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeh5Y5LMiRoI6r53vjkBM3lSX07M15ew4W-cypgBX6GiadP9B2j20C9V9-YIZ1rpLU6g_-GB2DAzrR31ue_QxW-479nvn6kH8ogZbGxbbucILJbZ5X4R3rogHHy7b9XRg1CqMA3Ue3e2s/s320/IMG_0623.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
It was such a nice day and we had made good time up Audem that we kept going, up Adderley and stopped at Market Drayton.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihbuukfN2_NJqeox-SjIUSww0K-2I4Z5lfjicel9xGctiJv9tIqPRjHLVDOI2mCAhIxX9RdZh5msKtEkVRz0kPtkQloui7rywaTm0Vgw4_GNXJOesWrs5XkpcOLbw68tPKMBfa7A8UPJI/s1600/IMG_0626.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihbuukfN2_NJqeox-SjIUSww0K-2I4Z5lfjicel9xGctiJv9tIqPRjHLVDOI2mCAhIxX9RdZh5msKtEkVRz0kPtkQloui7rywaTm0Vgw4_GNXJOesWrs5XkpcOLbw68tPKMBfa7A8UPJI/s320/IMG_0626.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Yesterday was Tyrley in the rain and with some rather boisterous by-washes. that's Jill trying a touch of white water boating.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjum5fbnbl_3MbHNttbCMuZ8p2vE_LBb14N_-rPhU7fKTt50m7th9_8AHx6AQyoU9_XJpPzvPvGOQea9sraSuSWKjqsRqDq1EWsyS-lWVkMlpdnij5TMhveKLPrAcKVnl4guzthnYowKPE/s1600/IMG_0635.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjum5fbnbl_3MbHNttbCMuZ8p2vE_LBb14N_-rPhU7fKTt50m7th9_8AHx6AQyoU9_XJpPzvPvGOQea9sraSuSWKjqsRqDq1EWsyS-lWVkMlpdnij5TMhveKLPrAcKVnl4guzthnYowKPE/s320/IMG_0635.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Woodseaves is now looking verdant<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipB1w3V_BbaEuxf3mAtKZQpXAD0vlDsZkBAFC6MJQLs1HXLHPkyZMKS0Rkryl3fnbKUUOWmelKx5p3ekDEWJHFLFS-yeVoDghTwgPJIMY7n0q74ttq18z_zmVlPAlABBxfPU-MPM-EXQM/s1600/IMG_0636.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipB1w3V_BbaEuxf3mAtKZQpXAD0vlDsZkBAFC6MJQLs1HXLHPkyZMKS0Rkryl3fnbKUUOWmelKx5p3ekDEWJHFLFS-yeVoDghTwgPJIMY7n0q74ttq18z_zmVlPAlABBxfPU-MPM-EXQM/s320/IMG_0636.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
and the towpath is, as usual, a quagmire.<br />
Well the wind blew and the rain fell but we pushed on and, now here's a surprise, we fetched up at The Anchor, just in time for a convivial afternoon.<br />
We are staying here for a couple of days and then leaving the boat at Norbury next weekend as we have a family party to go to.<br />
<br />
Watch this space.........Graham and Jill Findlayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12056676757141689845noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7293977957539159441.post-90097714915568814192015-05-25T15:50:00.001+01:002015-05-25T15:52:29.297+01:00Mostly flowers and a new hobby.Well we made it to Middlewich for our annual visit to Jill's cousin and after a couple of days we dropped down through Wardle Lock, traversed the shortest canal in England, took on water and then came back up through the lock and headed out into the country.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Ubo0baAHWIGnOPOw2Y5VoiC4qWSViT2vgjinZfhXtAywvcUspyy4FxAezLB40ghSxLAUYJnY9nrUYAruRifiN3GY8trZRLFAL4e-gdvPhagB7z46D9t_aRZRc7lhEEBJCR4W0B7z1F0/s1600/IMG_0560.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="281" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Ubo0baAHWIGnOPOw2Y5VoiC4qWSViT2vgjinZfhXtAywvcUspyy4FxAezLB40ghSxLAUYJnY9nrUYAruRifiN3GY8trZRLFAL4e-gdvPhagB7z46D9t_aRZRc7lhEEBJCR4W0B7z1F0/s320/IMG_0560.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Shot of the plaque on the bridge across the Wardle Canal. When the Shropshire Union built the Middlewich Branch the Trent and Mersey were determined to control the junction so they built one hundred and fifty four feet of nominally independent canal to connect to the Shroppie at Wardle Lock.<br />
As it is a Bank Holiday we stopped out in a nice quiet spot and have sat out the rush of traffic.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsKaC_mj5DoaYKpvjdKwaYrCL2kXwX7mYlJ_cs15wzn2SZXqbnOQC7Lo_Tn3WpBQzg84bIpsl-jU6TRBzQ7fx2HCgCACGCy2c_m7jHPRqjInLM2UTrZL8f5bNqtKEdHTYOl9FkX-cCx_o/s1600/IMG_0582.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsKaC_mj5DoaYKpvjdKwaYrCL2kXwX7mYlJ_cs15wzn2SZXqbnOQC7Lo_Tn3WpBQzg84bIpsl-jU6TRBzQ7fx2HCgCACGCy2c_m7jHPRqjInLM2UTrZL8f5bNqtKEdHTYOl9FkX-cCx_o/s320/IMG_0582.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEqZGkNaEm0LN2GZHWQ-Z7K2jNnoGCZs9wpv-N26EADeq__HwnbAtpeu5rp6lDIKUGabBlvBd4RZaCYIA2I3rXRS6MxBsZNOBiQZnnkHHEHozLD6Hra7y6p1o4tqHJmZoeI7D8-H_To-A/s1600/IMG_0588.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEqZGkNaEm0LN2GZHWQ-Z7K2jNnoGCZs9wpv-N26EADeq__HwnbAtpeu5rp6lDIKUGabBlvBd4RZaCYIA2I3rXRS6MxBsZNOBiQZnnkHHEHozLD6Hra7y6p1o4tqHJmZoeI7D8-H_To-A/s320/IMG_0588.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
"Ne'er cast a clout 'til May is out." There is some discussion about this saying, does it mean that one should retain one's winter undergarments until the start of June or until the may trees come into flower? Whichever is the true interpretation the trees used to have a bad reputation as "Witches trees." Personally I like 'em.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC-tsF8_bVOmjNdeUnmqDqgPh67XVHx9gIvuGswiyTMtskDNayUOBwJVk9-bTNXWYaoH7JIGYblGdgZ4Yp4QIJlgPbH_d8nEdIrqtE3papLelBUQGwQNeHzUUoRoy1cXXwl4RDeqnCctU/s1600/IMG_0581.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC-tsF8_bVOmjNdeUnmqDqgPh67XVHx9gIvuGswiyTMtskDNayUOBwJVk9-bTNXWYaoH7JIGYblGdgZ4Yp4QIJlgPbH_d8nEdIrqtE3papLelBUQGwQNeHzUUoRoy1cXXwl4RDeqnCctU/s320/IMG_0581.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgzJXdXLixcYOC6FtLT36-yHM1hk9Ctw7sM06wTLTAaItROGz6AntNhbs1aZpCrX02StoRX2dq0vm3zLNxqUNAaLDPzOlL1bItnBxC1vC-Q4Uyp5c6L4G4ATFfWN8VeELLQAzTWvlOY6g/s1600/IMG_0598.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgzJXdXLixcYOC6FtLT36-yHM1hk9Ctw7sM06wTLTAaItROGz6AntNhbs1aZpCrX02StoRX2dq0vm3zLNxqUNAaLDPzOlL1bItnBxC1vC-Q4Uyp5c6L4G4ATFfWN8VeELLQAzTWvlOY6g/s320/IMG_0598.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
"Singing, singing buttercups and daisies." Well we weren't on our way to Strawberry Fair but there was an abundance of the flowers along the towpath.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkqJyog3DMLEtg2XmHeSTylf-TwVBreJ_7d_lDWSM-7dL1wF4zvJyJ9m-kY2QKqcSOASIvgrD3AdwnVd6vfBLKUGSZvK4QVXtyUOMWO-jMX9xlBJT5Yi1M9YB4yfjkc77dxi4MF-LDXFI/s1600/IMG_0584.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkqJyog3DMLEtg2XmHeSTylf-TwVBreJ_7d_lDWSM-7dL1wF4zvJyJ9m-kY2QKqcSOASIvgrD3AdwnVd6vfBLKUGSZvK4QVXtyUOMWO-jMX9xlBJT5Yi1M9YB4yfjkc77dxi4MF-LDXFI/s320/IMG_0584.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
In places the daisies looked almost like snow.<br />
There are plenty of flowers about at this time of year so as we took our morning constitutional I busied myself with the camera.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-eRvL-JVITq6SDlfJL-jgTs2kkecL5_oj9q_hz2fo3Jw7Vdun8oTALF6bjs8QMnI2WEiOnpQ7tlu3m4kyT5Qvw3hk0nHR-2C2u84TVOxzPw7P3UmBAoyKYQC_ANXIIQhCUL6adBsKD5Y/s1600/IMG_0585.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-eRvL-JVITq6SDlfJL-jgTs2kkecL5_oj9q_hz2fo3Jw7Vdun8oTALF6bjs8QMnI2WEiOnpQ7tlu3m4kyT5Qvw3hk0nHR-2C2u84TVOxzPw7P3UmBAoyKYQC_ANXIIQhCUL6adBsKD5Y/s320/IMG_0585.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Field Mouse Ear with it's delicate little blooms.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbztbu-FK62ernNnb8t6I5V2VJsGAC0oXidBo0l22xntxZnDKHYnkvmHLnEyTIFThrTDKUDiomPm9-lEgJqr9HMVYyvTJHxBw2xwJhmGDU6nIvU8Aa9kjw5CP7wcC-f3AAtvJYLEz7zQA/s1600/IMG_0586.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbztbu-FK62ernNnb8t6I5V2VJsGAC0oXidBo0l22xntxZnDKHYnkvmHLnEyTIFThrTDKUDiomPm9-lEgJqr9HMVYyvTJHxBw2xwJhmGDU6nIvU8Aa9kjw5CP7wcC-f3AAtvJYLEz7zQA/s320/IMG_0586.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Some more mouse ear with the last of the cowslips.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk22oym0XH8qHlyrYnFGk38L_I6djJvmvw1WI1TXja5rcnNyWaHBtw-p6sRAgrPXb2gNALdmQpeFdUY1NOsbWcJku_3qgfhCbSXcKXXccdWOYFEFmfymprEFKxSf0tmtc7XIPzBX-LFhc/s1600/IMG_0576.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk22oym0XH8qHlyrYnFGk38L_I6djJvmvw1WI1TXja5rcnNyWaHBtw-p6sRAgrPXb2gNALdmQpeFdUY1NOsbWcJku_3qgfhCbSXcKXXccdWOYFEFmfymprEFKxSf0tmtc7XIPzBX-LFhc/s320/IMG_0576.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Should be a good supply of conkers come the autumn.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnfv2Levi1XmpwK53tb5pu9aUSaKGpGjC13vW6PT-bBig98geu3Xvq8-BcTMipTScSG9UNGlU8zQJsKLgkSUrZXtLsjiVs-R8RTF6v6Mry7i3FfLwbF3gSxM3Nzr9HrkKRY8dsX_Zew-4/s1600/IMG_0569.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnfv2Levi1XmpwK53tb5pu9aUSaKGpGjC13vW6PT-bBig98geu3Xvq8-BcTMipTScSG9UNGlU8zQJsKLgkSUrZXtLsjiVs-R8RTF6v6Mry7i3FfLwbF3gSxM3Nzr9HrkKRY8dsX_Zew-4/s320/IMG_0569.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Well I've racked my brains and searched through my usual oracle, the Readers Digest Field Guide to British Wild Flowers (1981), but I can't make a positive I.D. on this one.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4XMBSsJksFjZK3dP9VhE0PwDu8ECLYdcj3QaUFuR6u_O6HmZAYhvpniOs6e8VbMTYp4bGu7ZnPa1EQyTeEER9f3a3zR5GJDgGumRZPrnSC2pWlGPHCZPgpyfNUMiKK4C_mphXlOsumbY/s1600/IMG_0572.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4XMBSsJksFjZK3dP9VhE0PwDu8ECLYdcj3QaUFuR6u_O6HmZAYhvpniOs6e8VbMTYp4bGu7ZnPa1EQyTeEER9f3a3zR5GJDgGumRZPrnSC2pWlGPHCZPgpyfNUMiKK4C_mphXlOsumbY/s320/IMG_0572.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Looking at the heading and the 'phone number on this notice I reckon it has been adorning the bridge for a good few years.<br />
This last winter I have taken up a hobby again that I have not indulged in for at least forty years.<br />
Model making, so while Jill has been busily cross stitching I have been deep in paint and plastic cement.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ6q6f5_XISc4iP1rXFTlwIT3c7aCJMO6QhH9fGw2xQkFDPTlX2KTCU6xuCBLriMEwqjJKBALU8k2wzQIAmN-nwyt6N7sNHb4EJgoSHdGwsHmj0wXFoiZ8mDRLsO61VB3PSEB6JN_PGEI/s1600/IMG_0562.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ6q6f5_XISc4iP1rXFTlwIT3c7aCJMO6QhH9fGw2xQkFDPTlX2KTCU6xuCBLriMEwqjJKBALU8k2wzQIAmN-nwyt6N7sNHb4EJgoSHdGwsHmj0wXFoiZ8mDRLsO61VB3PSEB6JN_PGEI/s320/IMG_0562.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1cdWa9fkgeCwcFusYXa2syrIc67zhzgOf1iC6jxldZpbWhzOlLcT2vfjCEZr2VRVQ8tufiLlX_QDWWAxjfM9XBjJGVttVdXk7l88fLECLTn6pHgJVrYdIVG-mohonTXldJ-6aHYCxn6c/s1600/IMG_0563.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1cdWa9fkgeCwcFusYXa2syrIc67zhzgOf1iC6jxldZpbWhzOlLcT2vfjCEZr2VRVQ8tufiLlX_QDWWAxjfM9XBjJGVttVdXk7l88fLECLTn6pHgJVrYdIVG-mohonTXldJ-6aHYCxn6c/s320/IMG_0563.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrn1Kdqgy5vnVuMiAA8DoDRT79H_l97zpC5fazFAPr9UE7yVp5YRp8lVBQBoqJpxl4AUy2qJWz2jN2A8x2kDLNmYHnGUi-A7M3zP1zQJdPoSHh8VyKEP8GW5CbZFzcxXlUO-bHgNTUY1U/s1600/IMG_0564.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrn1Kdqgy5vnVuMiAA8DoDRT79H_l97zpC5fazFAPr9UE7yVp5YRp8lVBQBoqJpxl4AUy2qJWz2jN2A8x2kDLNmYHnGUi-A7M3zP1zQJdPoSHh8VyKEP8GW5CbZFzcxXlUO-bHgNTUY1U/s320/IMG_0564.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIiqA0UjHp2PcEHctmjImt0xo-tSMP8ay67C2I6SPiXVOvUypEF6EdqxZkF7BV4trEfG-3RuFCu60ItwS159-FmvVY8giWFK2iAmbTGPzdiZ_rXTqqKfq1iqhuGscgJJOKvFtVda2xS4M/s1600/IMG_0565.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIiqA0UjHp2PcEHctmjImt0xo-tSMP8ay67C2I6SPiXVOvUypEF6EdqxZkF7BV4trEfG-3RuFCu60ItwS159-FmvVY8giWFK2iAmbTGPzdiZ_rXTqqKfq1iqhuGscgJJOKvFtVda2xS4M/s320/IMG_0565.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
This was this winter's project. Well it helps to pass the time.<br />
<br />
Watch this space.......<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Graham and Jill Findlayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12056676757141689845noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7293977957539159441.post-84396285413685984532015-05-18T14:15:00.001+01:002015-05-18T21:07:13.753+01:00Three days for the price of one.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwH0OFju3Gnkg2uVp61dwi63pJvK85V-uvzbHZvzYXJRuLG4N7g3nyaJrr4b69ISrUCbTC_mCNM9TYWGWQV9sw4tV0k4yhbG20J9rhEB-uWtPMJ1CweHburqy1ZLvnNtacwFFiIvpiGWM/s1600/IMG_0548.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwH0OFju3Gnkg2uVp61dwi63pJvK85V-uvzbHZvzYXJRuLG4N7g3nyaJrr4b69ISrUCbTC_mCNM9TYWGWQV9sw4tV0k4yhbG20J9rhEB-uWtPMJ1CweHburqy1ZLvnNtacwFFiIvpiGWM/s320/IMG_0548.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
They say you should never look back but couldn't resist taking one last shot of the canal in Chester as we left on Friday. We were fortunate that we managed to pair up with another boat going up the locks out of the city. They are no fun for single boats, the water seems to come at you from all directions and chucks the boat all over the shop.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjWLAZ_fOWNyw5cXx3SSVl7Cb7gid-6YK8HMEUefNb-Kgz9tXE2bV4NfkctiV9OIZA6ksNB8nALTipXI66j2S9NGNtVlKSRma8Nloqgf_6_Dq_U_s39GdsMindcirtx9EyvE91mgI6FtQ/s1600/IMG_0549.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjWLAZ_fOWNyw5cXx3SSVl7Cb7gid-6YK8HMEUefNb-Kgz9tXE2bV4NfkctiV9OIZA6ksNB8nALTipXI66j2S9NGNtVlKSRma8Nloqgf_6_Dq_U_s39GdsMindcirtx9EyvE91mgI6FtQ/s320/IMG_0549.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
The Victorian water tower of Boughton water works. The water works is situated on the site of the springs that supplied Roman Chester with piped water and the area has been involved in water supply to the city virtually continuously ever since. The tower is now a listed building, those old Victorians knew a thing or two about building.<br />
We stopped at Beeston that afternoon.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLa4z-4-RmsOQ1hreoYBWZsuUOnAm2idwpqZYOcvQb9NX0PulPj-0GZl-9WktHH_E56A5wSpnVVJ8qH8fZlRpsDM8baTJfFI_0D0lowkdyxKY5m7AqsG4Domxz0My_lOnWdbDv4afRUKo/s1600/IMG_0518.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLa4z-4-RmsOQ1hreoYBWZsuUOnAm2idwpqZYOcvQb9NX0PulPj-0GZl-9WktHH_E56A5wSpnVVJ8qH8fZlRpsDM8baTJfFI_0D0lowkdyxKY5m7AqsG4Domxz0My_lOnWdbDv4afRUKo/s320/IMG_0518.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
I know I put up pictures of the castle on the way up but I've put this one in just to keep everyone up to date.<br />
Saturday we were again lucky in pairing up with another boat for the last five of the wide locks. We took Beeston Iron Lock singly though as the distortion makes it a bit iffy for two boats to share it. We were ahead at Bunbury staircase and the volunteers who were working it let us in the bottom but shut the gates on our companions as they had two boats in the top chamber. It's a couple of years since I last performed the "Bunbury Shuffle" but all went well and we were soon up and away, I was rather too busy to get pictures of this interesting manoeuvre, sorry. Brief stop at Calveley for water and to ditch the rubbish and on to Barbridge Junction for a quick left turn onto the Middlewich Arm and finally mooring for the day above Cholmondeston lock.<br />
After our regulation Sunday brekkies, (It has to be a Full English on a Sunday doesn't it?) we joined the queue at the lock, fortunately all there were experienced boaters and worked through in fine style. As we left the bottom of the lock there was a boat coming up which suddenly swerved across the cut, collided with one of the moored boats at the marina and ended up jammed across the canal. It turned out that his bow thruster had failed and the wind had taken him. One should not rely too heavily on these aids to navigation.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqJqN1rNxZyQjzEPV18N-f8sm9hb-FucxJYwOMlBx83snhDeGjybFiRmIvzhiXYINL6G_It53o7ExQD_LVBkBOteq4CYe10Xg1FCp7qevJOk6VDtgvpMj-Vq8t2163pLHxu7EDFxz7fSY/s1600/IMG_0552.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqJqN1rNxZyQjzEPV18N-f8sm9hb-FucxJYwOMlBx83snhDeGjybFiRmIvzhiXYINL6G_It53o7ExQD_LVBkBOteq4CYe10Xg1FCp7qevJOk6VDtgvpMj-Vq8t2163pLHxu7EDFxz7fSY/s320/IMG_0552.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Not long after leaving the errant boat behind us we came across the first brood of cygnets we have seen this year.<br />
Like all bloggers who have travelled this way in the past I will include the obligatory pictures of<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmU8IJrUt3TvrIhF3d_6nk5Fgmhr5uE7yIjoKMKZYeMNJZOPhhbj4HuC_LGneHEXaWgGj-qSS_1hvtrYnezj25IOAMhCP4kRPheSOdZ6gZfnP11aoB2JDCGl6a8yi6kATv7e4DZY9ZEkk/s1600/IMG_0555.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmU8IJrUt3TvrIhF3d_6nk5Fgmhr5uE7yIjoKMKZYeMNJZOPhhbj4HuC_LGneHEXaWgGj-qSS_1hvtrYnezj25IOAMhCP4kRPheSOdZ6gZfnP11aoB2JDCGl6a8yi6kATv7e4DZY9ZEkk/s320/IMG_0555.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2W1k-ELfcS_fbQO2jqMQL1kojfi5QXMWh2xY6W6ZvSvlHmgg9c5MRI71al9G9EJddZ-Xq_uuLz8LCOhhd5iMVDaPqtesb5bHCJAspIktt2K7FCVlWH2d5W8zv27KIEM2FNbLjjzxUkQg/s1600/IMG_0556.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2W1k-ELfcS_fbQO2jqMQL1kojfi5QXMWh2xY6W6ZvSvlHmgg9c5MRI71al9G9EJddZ-Xq_uuLz8LCOhhd5iMVDaPqtesb5bHCJAspIktt2K7FCVlWH2d5W8zv27KIEM2FNbLjjzxUkQg/s320/IMG_0556.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
the wonderfully Dutch gabled house at Minshull Wharf and<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_i20BriCTUYMPgheDXwbEf-0QDZRc_A1OJu31nUTOWQgJtzP1SJuKmJZP-iFNK1mcRkcD9x-CRgZ3nhu7p0YWL_d5_L7RfJyHDaKnQ9IYTc2pCq6dTClpuSgafxqPkrv-qnrSL2N5rK8/s1600/IMG_0558.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_i20BriCTUYMPgheDXwbEf-0QDZRc_A1OJu31nUTOWQgJtzP1SJuKmJZP-iFNK1mcRkcD9x-CRgZ3nhu7p0YWL_d5_L7RfJyHDaKnQ9IYTc2pCq6dTClpuSgafxqPkrv-qnrSL2N5rK8/s320/IMG_0558.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
the old canal stables a little further on; now a des. res.<br />
We are now sitting on the forty-eight hour moorings above the River Weaver and <strike>Northwich </strike> Winsford Top Flash. Wind and rain so far today so it will be tomorrow when we move on down to Middlewich.<br />
<br />
Watch this space.........<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Graham and Jill Findlayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12056676757141689845noreply@blogger.com1