...but not as bad. The Thames has a few more tricks for the unwary; another series of bends between Rushey and Radcot locks. There are a couple of shoal spits on the inside of the bends and one has a port hand marker buoy. When we passed this section in the opposite direction last year following a shared ownership boat, he proved that the buoy was needed. He ran at a fast speed onto the shoal whilst attempting to pass the on the wrong side. He could not get off by reversing and using the pole, so we threw him a rope and with both engines in reverse, managed to extricate the boat.
Arriving at Radcot lock, both bottom gates and both sluices had been left open, this made it a bit easier as the lock was still in Self Service mode.
Both fine examples of topiary were in excellent condition as usual at this well tended location.
We refilled the water tank above Grafton lock and moored near Kelmscott, the village noted for the occupancy of the manor house by the artist and poet, William Morris and the occupancy of the main visitor moorings for at least the past four years by two boats that have both seen better days.
Next morning, we arose to find a mist shrouded landscape. Having eaten, we moved away into more bends and a we passed by large field of Maize. This field does not seem to have benefited from rotation of crops, as we can only remember seeing Maize growing there on every visit since 2001.
We moored near Buscot lock to chat to John, the lock keeper and to catch up and swap our news.
Approaching the lock on foot, I glanced up and saw an AVRO Vulcan V bomber. As far as I know, there is only one in flying condition, XH558 so it must have been that one!
We then visited the nearby village of Buscot which is now in the care (or clutches) of the National Trust; to conduct a quality control exercise on the cakes and tea in village tea room. I am pleased to report that both items passed.
