Wednesday 23 September 2009
Tuesday 22 September 2009
THE STORY SO FAR......
Engine lock, Caldon canal, Tuesday 22nd September
I have now, a good internet connection, so here are the last few episodes of our adventures(?)
Leaving Whaley Bridge early on Friday morning, we were looking forward to the lovely views on the way to Marple, and on to Macclesfield. The weather had other ideas, the mist prevented the long views, the short ones are not that bad really.
Three boats passed in the opposite direction between Marple and Macclesfield, not what you could call busy; apart from the Staffs. & Worcs. Canals, we have found this to have been the normal scheme of things since April. We moored at Gurnet and enjoyed the pies at the Old Kings Head, they really are quite something.
SATURDAY morning saw us away at 6.30am arriving at the top of Bosley locks at 8.05am and a clear run down. Myra did not enjoy the Fools Nook swing bridge as she did not manage to inconvenience any drivers at that early hour!
We moored at the aqueduct and remained there for a restful weekend.
MONDAY was set for a long distance slog – over two hours! Mooring at Bridge 85 we had a wander into the hamlet of Ackers Crossing where we saw a man working in his garden. It was a mass of colour and showed how many hours the gardener had devoted to making the beautiful display. He was rightly proud and we had a good old chat before returning to the canal.
A boat was slowing down as it passed by, it was Coriolus with Martin and Anne from Crick Marina, a lovely surprise. They moored in front and joined us for a cuppa and a long chat going over each other’s journeying this year. We mentioned a private boat that we had come across twice, once at Whaley Bridge when they were messing about in the dark reversing to moor in front of us instead of tying behind us which would have been much easier. The second time, it was only tied at the front in Congleton and the back was swinging out. There were two mooring rings, one front, one back but they had used piling hooks instead. We stopped whilst they tried first the engine to bring the back in without the tiller in position, then with the tiller and finally with one of them jumping off with the centre rope and pulling it back that way. Martin said ‘Was it called *******?
Right first time! It had passed them going so fast that it had washed their boat onto a ledge.
Oh well, should we see it again we will know to keep well away…..
TODAY, another 6.30am start, Martin and Anne waved goodbye from their bedroom window (or was it good riddance at that hour?) and it was a crisp autumn morning which had enough mist to restrict the lovely views across the Cheshire plain, but could not hide Mow Cop. At Harecastle Tunnel we waited for a northbound boat to emerge before setting off into the abyss, the fumes were stinging my eyes despite the fact that only one boat had travelled through this morning.
As we approached Westport Lake, we watched a couple older than ourselves on their private boat struggling to free their ropes and move off before we arrived. He actually ran from the front to the back to undo the back rope as we approached. They pushed off as we were some four boats lengths from them. In their hurry, they had left the TV aerial still raised; any hope of just deserts failed as he scrabbled and managed to remove it as the boat began passing under the next bridge. What a pair of stupid, inconsiderate individuals. Occurrences like that do lead us to consider whether to give up boating before it become commonplace.
We turned onto the Caldon canal and had stopped at Milton for fish and chips. Whilst eating them, boat X, as discussed with Martin and Anne yesterday passed us!
Having allowed lunch to settle; we moved off and guess what. We found boat X, this time moored on a blind bend when they needed only to move two boats lengths forward to cause no problems at all! We stopped below Engine lock in pleasant rural surroundings after our longest day for some time, nearly six hours.
Thank goodness for the friendly BW men that we had met today, and yesterday’s meeting with Martin and Anne reminding us why we love boating; otherwise Martlet could have been up for sale!
2009 Totals: 511 Locks – 997 miles – 39 Bus pass uses.
I have now, a good internet connection, so here are the last few episodes of our adventures(?)
Leaving Whaley Bridge early on Friday morning, we were looking forward to the lovely views on the way to Marple, and on to Macclesfield. The weather had other ideas, the mist prevented the long views, the short ones are not that bad really.
Three boats passed in the opposite direction between Marple and Macclesfield, not what you could call busy; apart from the Staffs. & Worcs. Canals, we have found this to have been the normal scheme of things since April. We moored at Gurnet and enjoyed the pies at the Old Kings Head, they really are quite something.
SATURDAY morning saw us away at 6.30am arriving at the top of Bosley locks at 8.05am and a clear run down. Myra did not enjoy the Fools Nook swing bridge as she did not manage to inconvenience any drivers at that early hour!
We moored at the aqueduct and remained there for a restful weekend.
MONDAY was set for a long distance slog – over two hours! Mooring at Bridge 85 we had a wander into the hamlet of Ackers Crossing where we saw a man working in his garden. It was a mass of colour and showed how many hours the gardener had devoted to making the beautiful display. He was rightly proud and we had a good old chat before returning to the canal.
A boat was slowing down as it passed by, it was Coriolus with Martin and Anne from Crick Marina, a lovely surprise. They moored in front and joined us for a cuppa and a long chat going over each other’s journeying this year. We mentioned a private boat that we had come across twice, once at Whaley Bridge when they were messing about in the dark reversing to moor in front of us instead of tying behind us which would have been much easier. The second time, it was only tied at the front in Congleton and the back was swinging out. There were two mooring rings, one front, one back but they had used piling hooks instead. We stopped whilst they tried first the engine to bring the back in without the tiller in position, then with the tiller and finally with one of them jumping off with the centre rope and pulling it back that way. Martin said ‘Was it called *******?
Right first time! It had passed them going so fast that it had washed their boat onto a ledge.
Oh well, should we see it again we will know to keep well away…..
TODAY, another 6.30am start, Martin and Anne waved goodbye from their bedroom window (or was it good riddance at that hour?) and it was a crisp autumn morning which had enough mist to restrict the lovely views across the Cheshire plain, but could not hide Mow Cop. At Harecastle Tunnel we waited for a northbound boat to emerge before setting off into the abyss, the fumes were stinging my eyes despite the fact that only one boat had travelled through this morning.
As we approached Westport Lake, we watched a couple older than ourselves on their private boat struggling to free their ropes and move off before we arrived. He actually ran from the front to the back to undo the back rope as we approached. They pushed off as we were some four boats lengths from them. In their hurry, they had left the TV aerial still raised; any hope of just deserts failed as he scrabbled and managed to remove it as the boat began passing under the next bridge. What a pair of stupid, inconsiderate individuals. Occurrences like that do lead us to consider whether to give up boating before it become commonplace.
We turned onto the Caldon canal and had stopped at Milton for fish and chips. Whilst eating them, boat X, as discussed with Martin and Anne yesterday passed us!
Having allowed lunch to settle; we moved off and guess what. We found boat X, this time moored on a blind bend when they needed only to move two boats lengths forward to cause no problems at all! We stopped below Engine lock in pleasant rural surroundings after our longest day for some time, nearly six hours.
Thank goodness for the friendly BW men that we had met today, and yesterday’s meeting with Martin and Anne reminding us why we love boating; otherwise Martlet could have been up for sale!
2009 Totals: 511 Locks – 997 miles – 39 Bus pass uses.
Friday 18 September 2009
GOOD NEIGHBOURS
Macclesfield, Friday 18th September
Firstly, we have to say ‘thank you’; to neighbours Gerald and Jessica. Gerald has rebuilt a section of our boundary dry stone wall which had been damaged last year.
We knew nothing of this until our arrival at home, a really nice surprise.
Jessica provided lunch which was a kind thought and saved us some digging in the larder. Paul, Melandra and daughter Indigo (8 1/2 months), our neighbours on the other side were invited also. We have not seen Indigo since April, she smiles a lot and waves to you; a happy little soul indeed! Our grass has not grown since we left in April, we are very fortunate in being 'sandwiched' between such kind people.
We have been at shorebase 1 for a couple of days, leaving Martlet at Whaley Bridge and thanks to our contribution as Community charge payers to Derbyshire Dales Council; travelling free on the buses to reach home. We called at the chippy on the way back from the bus stop AT Whaley Bridge yesterday evening, the Haddock and the chips were very good.
Today, we had an early start and even after 9am, saw very few boats moving. We filled with diesel at Macclesfield Canal Centre then carried on to Gurnet Aqueduct; we will be in the Old Kings Head for pies and pints later this evening.
2009 Totals: 499 Locks – 969.5 miles – 39 Bus pass uses.
Firstly, we have to say ‘thank you’; to neighbours Gerald and Jessica. Gerald has rebuilt a section of our boundary dry stone wall which had been damaged last year.
We knew nothing of this until our arrival at home, a really nice surprise.
Jessica provided lunch which was a kind thought and saved us some digging in the larder. Paul, Melandra and daughter Indigo (8 1/2 months), our neighbours on the other side were invited also. We have not seen Indigo since April, she smiles a lot and waves to you; a happy little soul indeed! Our grass has not grown since we left in April, we are very fortunate in being 'sandwiched' between such kind people.
We have been at shorebase 1 for a couple of days, leaving Martlet at Whaley Bridge and thanks to our contribution as Community charge payers to Derbyshire Dales Council; travelling free on the buses to reach home. We called at the chippy on the way back from the bus stop AT Whaley Bridge yesterday evening, the Haddock and the chips were very good.
Today, we had an early start and even after 9am, saw very few boats moving. We filled with diesel at Macclesfield Canal Centre then carried on to Gurnet Aqueduct; we will be in the Old Kings Head for pies and pints later this evening.
2009 Totals: 499 Locks – 969.5 miles – 39 Bus pass uses.
Sunday 13 September 2009
WHITE NANCY
Bollington Sunday 13th September
White Nancy is the grade 2 listed landmark on Kerridge hill on the opposite side of Bollington to ‘The Nab’. Having seen it yesterday, we had decided to look closer and appreciate the view from there. Very good wide views, I was sure that we could see Stanlow refinery some 35 miles away: Manchester Airport was 10 miles away seemed as if we were looking down from very close by.
White Nancy was built in 1815 as a summerhouse for the Gaskell family who lived below the hill in Ingersley Hall; it may have been in commemoration of the battle of Waterloo. The family are said to have left an endowment for the annual maintenance; of 2/6d (12.5p in new money). Today, using average earnings as the benchmark, the sum would need to be £86.90.
Macclesfield Borough Council ran a contest to see which local attraction was most loved . White Nancy was the clear winner. This could explain two things; the first is that there is nothing else of interest in the Macclesfield area and secondly, the fact that Macclesfield Borough Council ceased to exist on 1st April 2009.
Having dropped in height to that of the town, whilst gazing down at the River Dean, we saw brown Trout and then a Kingfisher; proving that you do not need always to be in rural locations to see wildlife in its various forms.
2009 Totals: 499 Locks – 901.5 miles – 35 Bus pass uses.
White Nancy is the grade 2 listed landmark on Kerridge hill on the opposite side of Bollington to ‘The Nab’. Having seen it yesterday, we had decided to look closer and appreciate the view from there. Very good wide views, I was sure that we could see Stanlow refinery some 35 miles away: Manchester Airport was 10 miles away seemed as if we were looking down from very close by.
White Nancy was built in 1815 as a summerhouse for the Gaskell family who lived below the hill in Ingersley Hall; it may have been in commemoration of the battle of Waterloo. The family are said to have left an endowment for the annual maintenance; of 2/6d (12.5p in new money). Today, using average earnings as the benchmark, the sum would need to be £86.90.
Macclesfield Borough Council ran a contest to see which local attraction was most loved . White Nancy was the clear winner. This could explain two things; the first is that there is nothing else of interest in the Macclesfield area and secondly, the fact that Macclesfield Borough Council ceased to exist on 1st April 2009.
Having dropped in height to that of the town, whilst gazing down at the River Dean, we saw brown Trout and then a Kingfisher; proving that you do not need always to be in rural locations to see wildlife in its various forms.
2009 Totals: 499 Locks – 901.5 miles – 35 Bus pass uses.
SLOE GIN AND BOLLINGTON
Bollington Saturday 12th September
There is no such thing as a free lunch. We gathered a large amount of sloes from two bushes close to Bosley locks; as we are partial to the odd slug of sloe gin, we now have an ample sufficiency of the free part of the mix. Now it was time to pay our money and look big by purchasing the expensive part, namely the gin.
There is so much variation in the sloes themselves, that over the years we have found that it matters not if the gin is of good quality, nor even of 40 % proof. We have used Tesco cheapo at £7.44 per bottle and we know that come Christmas or soon after, the sloe gin will be good, possibly even excellent.
Moving out of Macclesfield, we encountered more oncoming boats than for a good few days; we had a pleasant journey with wonderful views to the hills, we moored at Bollington, just next to Bollington aqueduct. A stroll around Bollington stretched a bit and we found ourselves close to The Nab, at 935 feet is the highest point around. We followed a path back to the canal and chatted to people on the boats moored in front of us.
2009 Totals: 499 Locks – 901.5 miles – 35 Bus pass uses.
There is no such thing as a free lunch. We gathered a large amount of sloes from two bushes close to Bosley locks; as we are partial to the odd slug of sloe gin, we now have an ample sufficiency of the free part of the mix. Now it was time to pay our money and look big by purchasing the expensive part, namely the gin.
There is so much variation in the sloes themselves, that over the years we have found that it matters not if the gin is of good quality, nor even of 40 % proof. We have used Tesco cheapo at £7.44 per bottle and we know that come Christmas or soon after, the sloe gin will be good, possibly even excellent.
Moving out of Macclesfield, we encountered more oncoming boats than for a good few days; we had a pleasant journey with wonderful views to the hills, we moored at Bollington, just next to Bollington aqueduct. A stroll around Bollington stretched a bit and we found ourselves close to The Nab, at 935 feet is the highest point around. We followed a path back to the canal and chatted to people on the boats moored in front of us.
2009 Totals: 499 Locks – 901.5 miles – 35 Bus pass uses.
Friday 11 September 2009
MORE PIES
Macclesfield Friday 11th September
THURSDAY
The wharf area at Congleton has been developed a few years ago and still looks much better than when it was all dereliction. We moored there and walked into the town, mainly to deposit seven paperback books at a charity shop and who knows, maybe even replace some of them. I have not bought books from Oxfam for some while as I think that their prices for used books are too high; the British Heart Foundation seem to have followed suit and I will not be bothering to look there anymore. We found some excellent shops supporting local charities and instead, gave our money to them.
Myra had remembered a good bakery and we bought some pies for our supper.
Heading East, we moored at the foot of Bosley locks behind fellow Bloggers Lesley and Jo on Nb Caxton. We chatted for a while with them; then to a couple from Methven, near Perth. I had lots of relations in the area, so it was good to revive some happy memories. They have a friend who lives on Harris and will be visiting her at the end of the month; I offered to carry their luggage, but they assured me that they could cope.
FRIDAY
The mist was swirling around as we left the moorings, there was a slight chill to the air and the signs were good for a fine day. We reached the bottom lock at 6.50am and despite having to bring water down at two of them, tied up at the services block at the top lock at 8.20am. We had showers and after moving off, Myra washed some clothes as it was a good day for drying (apparently).
Sitting in the sunshine at Gurnet Aqueduct, we eventually stirred ourselves and
headed for the Old Kings Head. We had been recommended to visit and sample the pies cooked to order. We enjoyed the banter from the owner as well as the pints of Adnams. I had a steak and ale pie; Myra had steak and Merlot. They were both of generous size, excellent flavours and were some of the best pies that we have tasted.
We are planning a return visit already.
Back on board, I am writing this in an effort to remain awake; we are pleasantly full and all is right with our world. Perhaps that is the answer to shortening the recession; a pie and a pint!
2009 Totals: 499 Locks – 897 miles – 35 Bus pass uses.
THURSDAY
The wharf area at Congleton has been developed a few years ago and still looks much better than when it was all dereliction. We moored there and walked into the town, mainly to deposit seven paperback books at a charity shop and who knows, maybe even replace some of them. I have not bought books from Oxfam for some while as I think that their prices for used books are too high; the British Heart Foundation seem to have followed suit and I will not be bothering to look there anymore. We found some excellent shops supporting local charities and instead, gave our money to them.
Myra had remembered a good bakery and we bought some pies for our supper.
Heading East, we moored at the foot of Bosley locks behind fellow Bloggers Lesley and Jo on Nb Caxton. We chatted for a while with them; then to a couple from Methven, near Perth. I had lots of relations in the area, so it was good to revive some happy memories. They have a friend who lives on Harris and will be visiting her at the end of the month; I offered to carry their luggage, but they assured me that they could cope.
FRIDAY
The mist was swirling around as we left the moorings, there was a slight chill to the air and the signs were good for a fine day. We reached the bottom lock at 6.50am and despite having to bring water down at two of them, tied up at the services block at the top lock at 8.20am. We had showers and after moving off, Myra washed some clothes as it was a good day for drying (apparently).
Sitting in the sunshine at Gurnet Aqueduct, we eventually stirred ourselves and
headed for the Old Kings Head. We had been recommended to visit and sample the pies cooked to order. We enjoyed the banter from the owner as well as the pints of Adnams. I had a steak and ale pie; Myra had steak and Merlot. They were both of generous size, excellent flavours and were some of the best pies that we have tasted.
We are planning a return visit already.
Back on board, I am writing this in an effort to remain awake; we are pleasantly full and all is right with our world. Perhaps that is the answer to shortening the recession; a pie and a pint!
2009 Totals: 499 Locks – 897 miles – 35 Bus pass uses.
Wednesday 9 September 2009
HARECASTLE AND MOW COP
Macclesfield Canal, Br.85 Wednesday 9th September
This stoppage notice arrived today from BW; you couldn’t make it up could you
+++++++++++++++++
Phone Lines
Wednesday 9 September 2009 until further notice.
Please be advised that we are having technical problems with the phone lines and are not able to answer any calls - we are presently working on resolving this problem , we apologise for any inconvenience caused.
Enquiries: 0207 985 7200
+++++++++++++++++
This morning, we entered Harecastle Tunnel at 8am prompt; we were first in line and had three boats behind us. Emerging at the North end, for the first time we have ever seen, there were no boats waiting.
We tied up just before the junction at Hardings Wood so that Myra could go to Tesco’s. I spoke to some BW banksmen whilst I was waiting; I will not reveal details of the conversation in fairness to them. Suffice it to say I will not be sleeping easier in my bed tonight!
We arrived at our mooring place and on cue, the clouds appeared and away went the sunshine; it did however return after lunch. We have a good view of Mow Cop from here and we now feel that we are close to home.
2009 Totals: 487 Locks – 892 miles – 35 Bus pass uses.
This stoppage notice arrived today from BW; you couldn’t make it up could you
+++++++++++++++++
Phone Lines
Wednesday 9 September 2009 until further notice.
Please be advised that we are having technical problems with the phone lines and are not able to answer any calls - we are presently working on resolving this problem , we apologise for any inconvenience caused.
Enquiries: 0207 985 7200
+++++++++++++++++
This morning, we entered Harecastle Tunnel at 8am prompt; we were first in line and had three boats behind us. Emerging at the North end, for the first time we have ever seen, there were no boats waiting.
We tied up just before the junction at Hardings Wood so that Myra could go to Tesco’s. I spoke to some BW banksmen whilst I was waiting; I will not reveal details of the conversation in fairness to them. Suffice it to say I will not be sleeping easier in my bed tonight!
We arrived at our mooring place and on cue, the clouds appeared and away went the sunshine; it did however return after lunch. We have a good view of Mow Cop from here and we now feel that we are close to home.
2009 Totals: 487 Locks – 892 miles – 35 Bus pass uses.
Monday 7 September 2009
ENGLAND ON THE BOX, CZECH ON THE LABEL
Stoke on Trent Monday 7th September
We did not move yesterday as we were meeting up with ‘Half Past Four’ and of course, Sid and Joyce. Usually, they have travelled by car to the Barlaston moorings to meet us; this was a first boat to boat encounter. Myra and Sid had a mutual squeeze session on Half Past Four whilst Joyce and I had an intellectual one on Martlet.
All together once more on Martlet, a small libation of amber liquid was dispensed to all that were desirous of same – well, Sid and I anyway.
Today, approaching Stoke, we noticed that the dreaded Blue/Green algae was attempting a takeover. It was particularly bad below Stoke bottom lock.
The flats close to Twyford lock have lost their new appearance, whilst maintaining their total dominance of the two bottle kilns retained between the blocks. I suppose that is better than their removal, but only just.
A passing boater told us that the Stoke single cell creatures had been busy and had managed to drain the pound below the top lock. This follows the draining of the long pound from the bottom lock to Trentham last week. Perhaps the installation of anti vandal gear is now required in this area. Hopefully should it be so fitted, it would be of the BW key and spring hasp type.
The Doulton seconds shop received our undivided attention for a while this morning.
As part of my insatiable desire for knowledge, I began to examine carefully the labels on the items. Royal Doulton, England was the wording on the box. The labels on the items had the words ‘made in the Czech republic’ at the bottom. I had not realised that the Czech republic had a royal family; it just goes to show how educational a visit to the shops can be. Spurred on by this discovery, I found that some Royal Albert items were made in Germany (relations of the Prince no doubt); some glassware also from the Czech republic. Whatever next; they will be telling me that Kellogs Corn Flakes and Heinz were American!
We listened to an interesting one sided conversation of his experience from the steerer of a shared ownership boat; fortunately, we have met and chatted to a lot that do know what they are doing. We will not generalize and will not lump him in with them.
2009 Totals: 486 Locks – 887.5 miles – 35 Bus pass uses.
We did not move yesterday as we were meeting up with ‘Half Past Four’ and of course, Sid and Joyce. Usually, they have travelled by car to the Barlaston moorings to meet us; this was a first boat to boat encounter. Myra and Sid had a mutual squeeze session on Half Past Four whilst Joyce and I had an intellectual one on Martlet.
All together once more on Martlet, a small libation of amber liquid was dispensed to all that were desirous of same – well, Sid and I anyway.
Today, approaching Stoke, we noticed that the dreaded Blue/Green algae was attempting a takeover. It was particularly bad below Stoke bottom lock.
The flats close to Twyford lock have lost their new appearance, whilst maintaining their total dominance of the two bottle kilns retained between the blocks. I suppose that is better than their removal, but only just.
A passing boater told us that the Stoke single cell creatures had been busy and had managed to drain the pound below the top lock. This follows the draining of the long pound from the bottom lock to Trentham last week. Perhaps the installation of anti vandal gear is now required in this area. Hopefully should it be so fitted, it would be of the BW key and spring hasp type.
The Doulton seconds shop received our undivided attention for a while this morning.
As part of my insatiable desire for knowledge, I began to examine carefully the labels on the items. Royal Doulton, England was the wording on the box. The labels on the items had the words ‘made in the Czech republic’ at the bottom. I had not realised that the Czech republic had a royal family; it just goes to show how educational a visit to the shops can be. Spurred on by this discovery, I found that some Royal Albert items were made in Germany (relations of the Prince no doubt); some glassware also from the Czech republic. Whatever next; they will be telling me that Kellogs Corn Flakes and Heinz were American!
We listened to an interesting one sided conversation of his experience from the steerer of a shared ownership boat; fortunately, we have met and chatted to a lot that do know what they are doing. We will not generalize and will not lump him in with them.
2009 Totals: 486 Locks – 887.5 miles – 35 Bus pass uses.
Saturday 5 September 2009
TALK TALK
Barlaston, Trent & Mersey canal Saturday 5th September
Mick and Jackie joined us for coffee this morning and we carried on our chat from last evening. We were then aware that it was lunchtime and that we had chatted for most of the morning. They had decided to move off and carry on with their journey.
We had our meal and then walked up to the Wedgwood factory to have a look at the shop. The whole site had a slightly neglected appearance; the shop was open, but we could not shake off the sad feelings that things were not as they used to be. We did not buy anything, but thinking about it: we had not done so on any of our previous visits either.
Back aboard and minding our own business reading the paper, we were aware of a boat passing very closely and recognised ‘Enchantress’ with Jean and Paul Morris aboard. They moored behind us and Myra set the kettle going. They joined us and we were soon in full chat mode again; updating each other with news and happenings since our last meeting.
2009 Totals: 480 Locks – 880 miles – 35 Bus pass uses.
Mick and Jackie joined us for coffee this morning and we carried on our chat from last evening. We were then aware that it was lunchtime and that we had chatted for most of the morning. They had decided to move off and carry on with their journey.
We had our meal and then walked up to the Wedgwood factory to have a look at the shop. The whole site had a slightly neglected appearance; the shop was open, but we could not shake off the sad feelings that things were not as they used to be. We did not buy anything, but thinking about it: we had not done so on any of our previous visits either.
Back aboard and minding our own business reading the paper, we were aware of a boat passing very closely and recognised ‘Enchantress’ with Jean and Paul Morris aboard. They moored behind us and Myra set the kettle going. They joined us and we were soon in full chat mode again; updating each other with news and happenings since our last meeting.
2009 Totals: 480 Locks – 880 miles – 35 Bus pass uses.
A GLORIOUS MORNING
Barlaston, Trent & Mersey canal Friday 4th September.
Having witnessed the number of boats passing our mooring during yesterday, we were moving by 6.45am. It was a lovely morning with a crisp autumnal feeling and this confirmed the decision as a good one, to be up and about at this time of day.
Approaching Aston lock the size of the new marina became apparent. According to the blurb, it occupies 2.2 hectares (5.4 acres in old money) and will have 180 berths.
It will be opening in October 2009.
All that is needed now is for the lock moorings to be lengthened and improved along the Trent and Mersey to accommodate the inevitable increase in boat movements. Should I wish to have wet feet, I can always dip them in the canal; when I get off the boat on the towpath side I prefer grass to slurry or deep puddles as is the situation at present below Sandon lock.
Stone was full of boats, with the moorings from the lock extended southwards quite a way; it must be the Stopshire Union canal effect. Myra was going to Morrisons; as Martlet rose in the bottom lock I could see (of course!) that there were two boats moored on the shopping places at the car park. It was 8am, both boats had all of their curtains closed and had obviously been there all night. A little consideration goes a long way; completely out of reach as far as these two were concerned. We moored above Newcastle road lock and she walked from there. There were five boats moored in this pound; we were beginning to get used to having a lot of boats around again.
When Myra returned, we moved off and had a clear run up Meaford flight with a boat waiting to come down at each lock, three at the second to last and four at the last one!
We stopped for the day just past the Plume of Feathers at 11.40am and by 2.30pm, there were six boats moored in front.
We spent an enjoyable evening in company with Mick and Jackie from Stoke boat club on their boat ‘Half a Shilling’
2009 Totals: 480 Locks – 880 miles – 35 Bus pass uses.
Having witnessed the number of boats passing our mooring during yesterday, we were moving by 6.45am. It was a lovely morning with a crisp autumnal feeling and this confirmed the decision as a good one, to be up and about at this time of day.
Approaching Aston lock the size of the new marina became apparent. According to the blurb, it occupies 2.2 hectares (5.4 acres in old money) and will have 180 berths.
It will be opening in October 2009.
All that is needed now is for the lock moorings to be lengthened and improved along the Trent and Mersey to accommodate the inevitable increase in boat movements. Should I wish to have wet feet, I can always dip them in the canal; when I get off the boat on the towpath side I prefer grass to slurry or deep puddles as is the situation at present below Sandon lock.
Stone was full of boats, with the moorings from the lock extended southwards quite a way; it must be the Stopshire Union canal effect. Myra was going to Morrisons; as Martlet rose in the bottom lock I could see (of course!) that there were two boats moored on the shopping places at the car park. It was 8am, both boats had all of their curtains closed and had obviously been there all night. A little consideration goes a long way; completely out of reach as far as these two were concerned. We moored above Newcastle road lock and she walked from there. There were five boats moored in this pound; we were beginning to get used to having a lot of boats around again.
When Myra returned, we moved off and had a clear run up Meaford flight with a boat waiting to come down at each lock, three at the second to last and four at the last one!
We stopped for the day just past the Plume of Feathers at 11.40am and by 2.30pm, there were six boats moored in front.
We spent an enjoyable evening in company with Mick and Jackie from Stoke boat club on their boat ‘Half a Shilling’
2009 Totals: 480 Locks – 880 miles – 35 Bus pass uses.
Thursday 3 September 2009
THE EARLY BIRD.......
Trent & Mersey canal Br.85, Thursday 3rd September.
We stayed put at Tixall wide yesterday. We were walking up to the junction on our way to the farm shop. Arriving at the River Trent aqueduct, there was an ex Black Prince hire boat almost tied up in the passing space just east of the aqueduct.
A boat went past, the remaining mooring spike pulled out and the boat was adrift.
There were three ropes hanging from the boat, front, centre and back and plenty of marks in the mud where the spikes had been at various times. A passer-by on the permanent mooring side went off to see if anyone in the yard knew who owned it.
Another passing boater said that the ex hire boat had been there for at least two weeks.
On our way back, We were told by a boater that he had woken one night at Rugeley to find this same boat alongside him as it had come adrift. He had seen it in different places; he thought that it was a shared boat and was left for weeks on end at one place before being moved on. It was never moored correctly that he had seen. He had reported it to BW, but of course was given the standard ‘what can we do’ reply.
The farm shop had sold out of the plate sized steak pies and the new delivery had not arrived yet; the assistant was only too happy to put one on one side for us, we walked back in the afternoon and collected it.
The walk did us good and so did the pie! It was a good as we had remembered and did us for two main meals.
We took two hours to walk the length of the wide on the way back as we saw boaters that we knew and chatted to others for the first time.
Today, we moved off at 6.45am to beat the rush and headed for Br. 85 at Sandon. We had light rain and heavy wind which made the handling of the boat interesting. Nothing was moving until we reached Salt bridge at 9.15am, when we followed a boat with gearbox problems; the usual story, they had paid for a repair to be done and it appeared not to have been done properly. It was slightly better than before, however, they were coaxing it as they had to return to their mooring on the Bridgewater canal.
We moored up at 9.45am and some heavy showers arrived soon afterwards; by then we were drinking tea and looking out at the weather, trying hard not to be smug.
2009 Totals: 471 Locks – 873 miles – 35 Bus pass uses.
We stayed put at Tixall wide yesterday. We were walking up to the junction on our way to the farm shop. Arriving at the River Trent aqueduct, there was an ex Black Prince hire boat almost tied up in the passing space just east of the aqueduct.
A boat went past, the remaining mooring spike pulled out and the boat was adrift.
There were three ropes hanging from the boat, front, centre and back and plenty of marks in the mud where the spikes had been at various times. A passer-by on the permanent mooring side went off to see if anyone in the yard knew who owned it.
Another passing boater said that the ex hire boat had been there for at least two weeks.
On our way back, We were told by a boater that he had woken one night at Rugeley to find this same boat alongside him as it had come adrift. He had seen it in different places; he thought that it was a shared boat and was left for weeks on end at one place before being moved on. It was never moored correctly that he had seen. He had reported it to BW, but of course was given the standard ‘what can we do’ reply.
The farm shop had sold out of the plate sized steak pies and the new delivery had not arrived yet; the assistant was only too happy to put one on one side for us, we walked back in the afternoon and collected it.
The walk did us good and so did the pie! It was a good as we had remembered and did us for two main meals.
We took two hours to walk the length of the wide on the way back as we saw boaters that we knew and chatted to others for the first time.
Today, we moved off at 6.45am to beat the rush and headed for Br. 85 at Sandon. We had light rain and heavy wind which made the handling of the boat interesting. Nothing was moving until we reached Salt bridge at 9.15am, when we followed a boat with gearbox problems; the usual story, they had paid for a repair to be done and it appeared not to have been done properly. It was slightly better than before, however, they were coaxing it as they had to return to their mooring on the Bridgewater canal.
We moored up at 9.45am and some heavy showers arrived soon afterwards; by then we were drinking tea and looking out at the weather, trying hard not to be smug.
2009 Totals: 471 Locks – 873 miles – 35 Bus pass uses.
Tuesday 1 September 2009
A WEEKEND IN FRIENDLY SURROUNDINGS
Tixall Wide Tuesday 1st September.
We watched the antics of a heron on the towpath in front of us. It was sunny, and he (or she) was holding its wings out soaking up the warmth. We had never seen this behaviour before. Were able to watch for about five minutes before the sight of two dogs on the back of a boat caused it to fly away.
The Bank Holiday weekend was spent in the company of some friendly people whilst moored at Stafford Boat Club. We wandered around, chatted, had a few drinks, chatted some more and generally had a good time. It was very relaxing and last night, we had a good meal at the Wildwood Pub nearby.
We topped up with water and diesel and said our goodbyes; there was a real danger of staying put as we were made to feel most welcome, however, it was important to get boating again. Approaching Milford Wharf, we discovered that the Milford farm shop has closed; it was a good one, we will call now need to visit the Great Haywood shop in a couple of days time.
We arrived at Tixall wide and slipped into a mooring spot between two other boats; almost exactly where we would have chosen, and with a good view of the gatehouse to the now demolished Tixall Hall.
The rain started soon afterwards, and there have been two really heavy showers accompanied by thunder.
2009 Totals: 468 Locks – 866 miles – 35 Bus pass uses.
We watched the antics of a heron on the towpath in front of us. It was sunny, and he (or she) was holding its wings out soaking up the warmth. We had never seen this behaviour before. Were able to watch for about five minutes before the sight of two dogs on the back of a boat caused it to fly away.
The Bank Holiday weekend was spent in the company of some friendly people whilst moored at Stafford Boat Club. We wandered around, chatted, had a few drinks, chatted some more and generally had a good time. It was very relaxing and last night, we had a good meal at the Wildwood Pub nearby.
We topped up with water and diesel and said our goodbyes; there was a real danger of staying put as we were made to feel most welcome, however, it was important to get boating again. Approaching Milford Wharf, we discovered that the Milford farm shop has closed; it was a good one, we will call now need to visit the Great Haywood shop in a couple of days time.
We arrived at Tixall wide and slipped into a mooring spot between two other boats; almost exactly where we would have chosen, and with a good view of the gatehouse to the now demolished Tixall Hall.
The rain started soon afterwards, and there have been two really heavy showers accompanied by thunder.
2009 Totals: 468 Locks – 866 miles – 35 Bus pass uses.
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