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.
