SATURDAY. We have needed to obtain some diesel for a while now, but suppliers within reach of Leeds are almost an endangered species. Passing boaters had suggested to us that Calder Valley marine at Apperley Bridge was the best place for miles. We stopped there and whilst waiting for the 10am opening time, emptied the PortaPotti and chatted to other boaters. We paid 76p /litre, only slightly more than we paid at Thorne two months ago. It was drizzling on and off as we negotiated the swing bridge and Dobsons locks with the help of Pauline and Duncan. We moored well above the lock to enable us to have showers. The moorings, according to the notice ‘only whilst using the facilities’ were full - occupied by three BW workboats and one private narrowboat with a TV aerial erected. It had obviously been there overnight as we were tied up when it passed us yesterday afternoon. Further proof if needed that today, there are some selfish or thoughtless (possible both?) people on narrowboats. They do not deserve to be called boaters. After all four of us had showers (I should add – individually) then the cleanest boaters for miles around moved off to Field three locks. We were assisted up them by one of the friendliest and helpful BW men we have met. He was cheerful and professional and it was raining hard all of the time. Being of hardy stock, we tied up both boats soon after the locks and battened down the hatches, we might move tomorrow if it has stopped raining by then.
Weather two light showers, then continuous rain.
The 2008 journey thus far: 224 Locks & 334 Miles & 26 Swing\Lift Bridges
Journeys using bus pass: 14
