NB Gaz Arc passed in opposite direction at 6.50am as I was putting on the kettle. This was one of the only two boats that were moving all day. We moved off at 7.40am, under sunny skies with clouds building rapidly. At 8.20, the sun had gone as we approached Bramwith lock. Chatting instead of concentrating as Martlet was rising in the lock, I managed to snag the front fender under a broken rubbing board in the upper gate; both securing chains broke. When the level was made, I slewed and secured across the lock to repair the chains with cable ties - what would we do without them? Through Barnby Dun lift bridge and Long Sandall lock where there was a large hole in the upper gate with the water pouring through. About one mile further on, we entered a large area of diesel or similar on the surface which extended for 1 ½ miles, the smell was not pleasant. We moored on the visitor moorings at Doncaster, secure behind two locked gates and steel security fencing and went for a wander around Doncaster. We found the bus station and collected timetables to Conisbrough for a look at the castle. Another thunderstorm after dinner, but not so much rain this time. Probably we will go up river to Sprotborough tomorrow after another raid on the excellent market.
The 2008 journey thus far: 72 Locks & 182 Miles & 10 Swing Bridges
