Saturday, 27 June 2009
BACK TO REALITY
Yarnton Mead; Saturday 27th June
Last evening, we were about to go for a wander to Farmoor reservoir when I looked out and saw a barn owl heading towards us. It was searching the long grass along the moorings and made a wonderful sight.
Arriving at Farmoor Reservoir, we saw some large fish, we thought that they could have been Rainbow Trout, but then we do not know one fish from Michael.
Today is our last full day on the Thames; we will be moving up to Thrupp tomorrow and back to dragging the bottom on the canal system. We have some small shears that will be put to good use preparing mooring sites. The Oxford canal has been abandoned by BW as to keeping the grass short on the banks.
The weather has been very hot after a foggy start, Myra has retreated inside; it is that hot.
2009 Totals: 276 Locks – 591.5 miles – 14 Bus pass uses
Last evening, we were about to go for a wander to Farmoor reservoir when I looked out and saw a barn owl heading towards us. It was searching the long grass along the moorings and made a wonderful sight.
Arriving at Farmoor Reservoir, we saw some large fish, we thought that they could have been Rainbow Trout, but then we do not know one fish from Michael.
Today is our last full day on the Thames; we will be moving up to Thrupp tomorrow and back to dragging the bottom on the canal system. We have some small shears that will be put to good use preparing mooring sites. The Oxford canal has been abandoned by BW as to keeping the grass short on the banks.
The weather has been very hot after a foggy start, Myra has retreated inside; it is that hot.
2009 Totals: 276 Locks – 591.5 miles – 14 Bus pass uses
Friday, 26 June 2009
WEATHER AND DIFFERENT BIRDS
Pinkhill Lock; Friday 26th June
I had looked at three weather forecasts last night, in an effort to keep dry when boating today. I could have saved time and effort by flipping a coin (second residence flipping is so passé), heads for moving before lunch etc. All three were wrong. Later, speaking to Paul Brown at Shifford lock (after the cloudburst!), his EA forecast was for rain in the morning and dry in the afternoon. I realise now that weather forecasts have their own style of freemasonry and that I am, as an outsider, destined to get wet now and again.
Approaching Ten Foot Bridge, I looked ahead and the trees were rapidly disappearing in mist. Five minutes later, rain drops the size of small hailstones were rapidly disappearing into the surface of the river, apart from where my body and Martlet prevented them. I was grateful that my hat had a good sized brim; at least half the rain dropping off it missed my eyes. I tied the boat up for fifteen minutes until the heavy rain had stopped.
Approaching Northmoor lock, two helicopters seemed to be heading straight for us; fortunately, they began to climb and passed behind us. Thinking about it, it should have been obvious that we were not the target; I could not hear the ‘Ride of the Valkyries’.
Below the lock, I saw an Egret, which immediately took flight and was doing circuits and bumps in front of us for the next two miles. We moored at Pinkhill by 1pm and will remain here tonight.
2009 Totals: 274 Locks – 587.5 miles – 14 Bus pass uses
I had looked at three weather forecasts last night, in an effort to keep dry when boating today. I could have saved time and effort by flipping a coin (second residence flipping is so passé), heads for moving before lunch etc. All three were wrong. Later, speaking to Paul Brown at Shifford lock (after the cloudburst!), his EA forecast was for rain in the morning and dry in the afternoon. I realise now that weather forecasts have their own style of freemasonry and that I am, as an outsider, destined to get wet now and again.
Approaching Ten Foot Bridge, I looked ahead and the trees were rapidly disappearing in mist. Five minutes later, rain drops the size of small hailstones were rapidly disappearing into the surface of the river, apart from where my body and Martlet prevented them. I was grateful that my hat had a good sized brim; at least half the rain dropping off it missed my eyes. I tied the boat up for fifteen minutes until the heavy rain had stopped.
Approaching Northmoor lock, two helicopters seemed to be heading straight for us; fortunately, they began to climb and passed behind us. Thinking about it, it should have been obvious that we were not the target; I could not hear the ‘Ride of the Valkyries’.
Below the lock, I saw an Egret, which immediately took flight and was doing circuits and bumps in front of us for the next two miles. We moored at Pinkhill by 1pm and will remain here tonight.
2009 Totals: 274 Locks – 587.5 miles – 14 Bus pass uses
NICE PEOPLE AND STUPID PEOPLE
Above Rushey Lock; Thursday 25th June
Arriving at Lechlade we saw a boat with the South Pennine Boat Club initials on the side. Speaking to the owner, we were sad to hear that club member Shirley Hobson, who had a boat called Pegasus, had died. We knew that Harold, her husband had died a few years ago: they were a lovely couple and had packed more boating than most people into their lives. Pegasus is being refitted by their son Paul, but with the stipulation from Shirley that the colours must remain blue and maroon which was chosen by ex-paratrooper Harold.
Having boarded the free Tesco bus at Lechlade, I sat at the back next to Bert.
We had seen him almost every time that we had taken this bus; he is a bright and cheerful man and is 94 ½ years old. His wife died 30 years ago and he has a girlfriend in Cardiff, but he told me that he will not marry again.
This bus trip is a step back in time as I am sure that I have mentioned before, all the passengers talk to each other and to the driver, who on the return trip, assists with the full bags and shopping trolleys to their gates.
Unloading the rucksacks on our return, we then moved away from Lechlade beginning our final journey on the Thames this year, as we have to be off the river on Sunday. We moored above Rushey lock and had a wander down after supper.
We chatted to the owner of Bosun, a lovely Broom built broads hire boat which is being faithfully restored, with loads and loads of varnished woodwork to be kept on good condition. Whilst we were chatting to him, a couple with two dogs crossed the lock gate and continued on the footpath.
Some time later, we were walking back to the boat when we saw the herd of heifers milling around and some people waving arms about. We had passed through this herd earlier tonight and also a few days ago with no problems. However, as I am sure you can guess; the two idiots with the dogs had let them off their leads near the cattle.
The cattle were not charging, but moving steadily in a circle towards the couple and their dogs. People from two moored boats were attempting to distract the cattle whilst the dog owners gathered their dogs and put them back on the lead. The heifers were still not happy as we walked by and then they slowly followed the dogs and their owners back to the gate. The recent tragic case in Yorkshire had taught the dog owners nothing. Tragedies happen to other people on television, not to them.
2009 Totals: 271 Locks – 574 miles – 14 Bus pass uses
Arriving at Lechlade we saw a boat with the South Pennine Boat Club initials on the side. Speaking to the owner, we were sad to hear that club member Shirley Hobson, who had a boat called Pegasus, had died. We knew that Harold, her husband had died a few years ago: they were a lovely couple and had packed more boating than most people into their lives. Pegasus is being refitted by their son Paul, but with the stipulation from Shirley that the colours must remain blue and maroon which was chosen by ex-paratrooper Harold.
Having boarded the free Tesco bus at Lechlade, I sat at the back next to Bert.
We had seen him almost every time that we had taken this bus; he is a bright and cheerful man and is 94 ½ years old. His wife died 30 years ago and he has a girlfriend in Cardiff, but he told me that he will not marry again.
This bus trip is a step back in time as I am sure that I have mentioned before, all the passengers talk to each other and to the driver, who on the return trip, assists with the full bags and shopping trolleys to their gates.
Unloading the rucksacks on our return, we then moved away from Lechlade beginning our final journey on the Thames this year, as we have to be off the river on Sunday. We moored above Rushey lock and had a wander down after supper.
We chatted to the owner of Bosun, a lovely Broom built broads hire boat which is being faithfully restored, with loads and loads of varnished woodwork to be kept on good condition. Whilst we were chatting to him, a couple with two dogs crossed the lock gate and continued on the footpath.
Some time later, we were walking back to the boat when we saw the herd of heifers milling around and some people waving arms about. We had passed through this herd earlier tonight and also a few days ago with no problems. However, as I am sure you can guess; the two idiots with the dogs had let them off their leads near the cattle.
The cattle were not charging, but moving steadily in a circle towards the couple and their dogs. People from two moored boats were attempting to distract the cattle whilst the dog owners gathered their dogs and put them back on the lead. The heifers were still not happy as we walked by and then they slowly followed the dogs and their owners back to the gate. The recent tragic case in Yorkshire had taught the dog owners nothing. Tragedies happen to other people on television, not to them.
2009 Totals: 271 Locks – 574 miles – 14 Bus pass uses
Wednesday, 24 June 2009
HOW TO CHEAT AT SCRABBLE
Above Buscot Lock; Wednesday 24th June
4word of the day: ANONYMISE.
I will be adding a new feature to this blog, prompted by the language that used to be known as English and is now regularly abused and enlarged on Radio 4. I shall call it 4word of the day. It will appear each time that I hear a new word; I will use one from last week as an illustration – ILLEGALISE. The spelling may be a bit hit and miss; I do not always have my hearing aids fitted when listening to the radio. Wake up at the back there!
Below Grafton lock, there was a swan’s nest with one adult and seven cygnets in residence. Well, almost – the adult was in residence, the others had their feet in the nest and their backsides hanging over the edge.
From first thing this morning; we were treated to a clear blue sky, and a warm wind remaining until after lunch and well after we had tied up for the day. A little woodwork rubbing down, followed by varnishing in the cabin and that is the tasks completed. We are intending to take tea at the Buscot tea rooms, after a walk around the village. This boating lark can be so tiring!
2009 Totals: 266 Locks – 562.5 miles – 14 Bus pass uses
4word of the day: ANONYMISE.
I will be adding a new feature to this blog, prompted by the language that used to be known as English and is now regularly abused and enlarged on Radio 4. I shall call it 4word of the day. It will appear each time that I hear a new word; I will use one from last week as an illustration – ILLEGALISE. The spelling may be a bit hit and miss; I do not always have my hearing aids fitted when listening to the radio. Wake up at the back there!
Below Grafton lock, there was a swan’s nest with one adult and seven cygnets in residence. Well, almost – the adult was in residence, the others had their feet in the nest and their backsides hanging over the edge.
From first thing this morning; we were treated to a clear blue sky, and a warm wind remaining until after lunch and well after we had tied up for the day. A little woodwork rubbing down, followed by varnishing in the cabin and that is the tasks completed. We are intending to take tea at the Buscot tea rooms, after a walk around the village. This boating lark can be so tiring!
2009 Totals: 266 Locks – 562.5 miles – 14 Bus pass uses
Tuesday, 23 June 2009
Monday, 22 June 2009
BOAT INSPECTION
Above Rushey Lock; Monday 22nd June
We were moving for nearly one hour before we saw a boat moving; it is quiet and long may it so remain. Jim on Gazelle approached as we neared Ten Foot Bridge, I managed to get a photograph this time, and I do like his boat.
We approached Tadpole Bridge and saw Richard and Jane had moored ‘Casual Water’ at the pub. We tied alongside for the grand tour and coffee.
The boat was from Narrowcraft and had been well fitted out and finished to a good standard, incorporating some very useful and clever features; in particular, the convertible seat back on the dinette. The wiring and engine installation were equally impressive. Richard and Jane are justifiably very happy with the boat.
We said goodbye and headed for Rushey lock, mooring on the field above.
2009 Totals: 263 Locks – 554.5 miles – 14 Bus pass uses
We were moving for nearly one hour before we saw a boat moving; it is quiet and long may it so remain. Jim on Gazelle approached as we neared Ten Foot Bridge, I managed to get a photograph this time, and I do like his boat.
We approached Tadpole Bridge and saw Richard and Jane had moored ‘Casual Water’ at the pub. We tied alongside for the grand tour and coffee.
The boat was from Narrowcraft and had been well fitted out and finished to a good standard, incorporating some very useful and clever features; in particular, the convertible seat back on the dinette. The wiring and engine installation were equally impressive. Richard and Jane are justifiably very happy with the boat.
We said goodbye and headed for Rushey lock, mooring on the field above.
2009 Totals: 263 Locks – 554.5 miles – 14 Bus pass uses
FIRST DAY OF SUMMER
Pinkhill Lock, Nr. Oxford; Sunday 21st June
Today was the Summer Solstice; I have always thought that the name sounded like something that should be applied to reduce swelling or to draw out an infection. The first day of summer arrived shrouded in mist, permitted a fleeting glimpse of the sun; and then became cloudy. To us, it mattered little.
It was also Father’s day; one of the few imports from America that meets with my approval. The Maltesers present to me by Caleb and Madeleine were well received.
Myra had made toad in the hole which is one of Clare’s and my favourites.
The borrowed table worked well with the two children using the bottom step and a small foot stool to sit upon.
We all had a wander after lunch to return the table to Tim Brown at the lock and to examine the weir.
After everyone had left for home, we moved the boat away from the trees and washed the sticky residue from the roof.
2009 Totals: 263 Locks – 554.5 miles – 14 Bus pass uses Monday 22nd
Today was the Summer Solstice; I have always thought that the name sounded like something that should be applied to reduce swelling or to draw out an infection. The first day of summer arrived shrouded in mist, permitted a fleeting glimpse of the sun; and then became cloudy. To us, it mattered little.
It was also Father’s day; one of the few imports from America that meets with my approval. The Maltesers present to me by Caleb and Madeleine were well received.
Myra had made toad in the hole which is one of Clare’s and my favourites.
The borrowed table worked well with the two children using the bottom step and a small foot stool to sit upon.
We all had a wander after lunch to return the table to Tim Brown at the lock and to examine the weir.
After everyone had left for home, we moved the boat away from the trees and washed the sticky residue from the roof.
2009 Totals: 263 Locks – 554.5 miles – 14 Bus pass uses Monday 22nd
Sunday, 21 June 2009
FRIENDS
Pinkhill Lock, Nr. Oxford
Chatting this morning to Tim Brown, the lock keeper at Pinkhill; we saw a narrowboat approaching from Eynsham. On arrival at the lower lock gates, a voice called out ‘Good morning Iain’. It was Richard and Jane, ex Nb.Oscar from Crick marina on their first trip with their new boat, 'Casual Water'. We spoke briefly as the lock was filling as they were on a tight schedule to meet family further up river.
We had a walk into Farmoor, it seemed to be a good idea at the time. It is really a housing estate with little to offer by way of rewarding the energy expounded. There was a well built and well maintained bus shelter. Perhaps I will take up photographing them as a new hobby. On second thoughts, I will persevere instead with my latest; that of trying to understand the early morning weather forecast on Radio 4.
After lunch, I was watching a pair of narrowboats leaving the lock. One of them was Gazelle; a beautiful boat built by Ian Kemp and owned by Jim Evans. I called out to him and he came alongside and stayed for a chat and a cup of tea. We first met Jim 8years ago when we did the Hatton and Stockton flights together when we were delivering a boat for Paul Mudie at ABNB. We had a lot of catching up to do. We will see him again before we leave the Thames.
Having confirmed the arrival of Tim, Clare, Caleb and Madeleine tomorrow morning, we returned to the lock to see Tim Brown. He has kindly lent us a small table to enable all six of us to eat on Martlet. As he said, lock keepers are here to help!
2009 Totals: 260 Locks – 541 miles – 14 Bus pass uses
Chatting this morning to Tim Brown, the lock keeper at Pinkhill; we saw a narrowboat approaching from Eynsham. On arrival at the lower lock gates, a voice called out ‘Good morning Iain’. It was Richard and Jane, ex Nb.Oscar from Crick marina on their first trip with their new boat, 'Casual Water'. We spoke briefly as the lock was filling as they were on a tight schedule to meet family further up river.
We had a walk into Farmoor, it seemed to be a good idea at the time. It is really a housing estate with little to offer by way of rewarding the energy expounded. There was a well built and well maintained bus shelter. Perhaps I will take up photographing them as a new hobby. On second thoughts, I will persevere instead with my latest; that of trying to understand the early morning weather forecast on Radio 4.
After lunch, I was watching a pair of narrowboats leaving the lock. One of them was Gazelle; a beautiful boat built by Ian Kemp and owned by Jim Evans. I called out to him and he came alongside and stayed for a chat and a cup of tea. We first met Jim 8years ago when we did the Hatton and Stockton flights together when we were delivering a boat for Paul Mudie at ABNB. We had a lot of catching up to do. We will see him again before we leave the Thames.
Having confirmed the arrival of Tim, Clare, Caleb and Madeleine tomorrow morning, we returned to the lock to see Tim Brown. He has kindly lent us a small table to enable all six of us to eat on Martlet. As he said, lock keepers are here to help!
2009 Totals: 260 Locks – 541 miles – 14 Bus pass uses
Friday, 19 June 2009
SUCCESSFUL SHOPPING TRIP
Cassington nature reserve, Nr. Oxford
Dusting off the bus passes, we walked into Oxford for the journey to Thame.
In my transport days, when travelling home along the M40 having delivered to Banbury or Birmingham; I was in the habit of diverting there to visit the bakery. The bacon rolls were always worth the journey, sometimes helped down by a caramel shortbread slice. We tried the pasty and a steak pie today; they were not as good as I had remembered the bacon rolls to be. Perhaps my memory has a faulty default ‘Selective’ button.
Thame market has been held regularly on a Tuesday since 1230. They would sell more if they started a bit earlier; still, they know their business.
Thame has a lot of interesting buildings and good selection of shops along both sides of the market place and the adjoining access roads. I wandered into a motor accessory shop as I needed an oil filter for the boat engine. It was immediately obvious that it was a family run business; we were made welcome as we crossed the threshold. I quoted a Wix filter part number and the reference (or cross reference) book was produced from under the counter. The Fram part number ‘PH 6811’ was the one; I purchased same and I have now, two alternative part numbers available. I prefer to deal with small shops whenever possible as the staff usually have better knowledge of their stock and uses thereof.
Close by was a branch of Robert Dyas; browsing inside I found some large castor cups. I have been looking for some since the fitting of the new carpets in our bungalow; I am now a happy old Hector.
On our return to Oxford, we decided to move moorings as the weather was dry.
We tied up half way between Kings and Eynsham locks at Cassington nature reserve, the wind was by this time very strong and gusty.
2009 Totals: 260 Locks – 541 miles – 14 Bus pass uses
Dusting off the bus passes, we walked into Oxford for the journey to Thame.
In my transport days, when travelling home along the M40 having delivered to Banbury or Birmingham; I was in the habit of diverting there to visit the bakery. The bacon rolls were always worth the journey, sometimes helped down by a caramel shortbread slice. We tried the pasty and a steak pie today; they were not as good as I had remembered the bacon rolls to be. Perhaps my memory has a faulty default ‘Selective’ button.
Thame market has been held regularly on a Tuesday since 1230. They would sell more if they started a bit earlier; still, they know their business.
Thame has a lot of interesting buildings and good selection of shops along both sides of the market place and the adjoining access roads. I wandered into a motor accessory shop as I needed an oil filter for the boat engine. It was immediately obvious that it was a family run business; we were made welcome as we crossed the threshold. I quoted a Wix filter part number and the reference (or cross reference) book was produced from under the counter. The Fram part number ‘PH 6811’ was the one; I purchased same and I have now, two alternative part numbers available. I prefer to deal with small shops whenever possible as the staff usually have better knowledge of their stock and uses thereof.
Close by was a branch of Robert Dyas; browsing inside I found some large castor cups. I have been looking for some since the fitting of the new carpets in our bungalow; I am now a happy old Hector.
On our return to Oxford, we decided to move moorings as the weather was dry.
We tied up half way between Kings and Eynsham locks at Cassington nature reserve, the wind was by this time very strong and gusty.
2009 Totals: 260 Locks – 541 miles – 14 Bus pass uses
Wednesday, 17 June 2009
WONDERFUL PEOPLE
Christ Church meadow, Oxford
We arrived at Iffley lock and told Ferd, the lock keeper that we will not be seeing him again this trip. Whilst we were waiting for the lock to fill; he went off, only to reappear soon after cutting some Roses, which he presented to Myra.
We had a good chat and as we eventually pulled away from the lock, we realised that the spirit of the boating community; which is disappearing from the canals, is alive and well on the Thames.
I hope that the management style of the EA takes a long time to break the wonderful attitude and pride of the lock keepers in their work.
Having tied up at Christ Church meadow, I was chatting to the boat owner upstream of us. He is a retired Policeman from Dorset, who managed to keep a nice little job as driver to three Chief Constables over a twelve year period. I managed to stop chatting in time for lunch, but it was a close thing.
2009 Totals: 257 Locks – 534.5 miles – 12 Bus pass uses
We arrived at Iffley lock and told Ferd, the lock keeper that we will not be seeing him again this trip. Whilst we were waiting for the lock to fill; he went off, only to reappear soon after cutting some Roses, which he presented to Myra.
We had a good chat and as we eventually pulled away from the lock, we realised that the spirit of the boating community; which is disappearing from the canals, is alive and well on the Thames.
I hope that the management style of the EA takes a long time to break the wonderful attitude and pride of the lock keepers in their work.
Having tied up at Christ Church meadow, I was chatting to the boat owner upstream of us. He is a retired Policeman from Dorset, who managed to keep a nice little job as driver to three Chief Constables over a twelve year period. I managed to stop chatting in time for lunch, but it was a close thing.
2009 Totals: 257 Locks – 534.5 miles – 12 Bus pass uses
Tuesday, 16 June 2009
LESLEY LORRAINE MUDIE
Tuesday 16th June.
The style of blog today is very different, the reason will be immediately clear.
On Sunday 8th June, Lesley Mudie lost her fight for life. She was a friend with one of those wonderful voices on the telephone; you could hear her smile as she spoke.
We will miss her; the large number of people at yesterday's service of Thanksgiving for her life showed clearly that we are not the only ones to feel that way. Andrew Mudie gave a reading which I have always found moving; yesterday, more deeply than ever. Here is the poem.
Do not stand at my grave and weep,
I am not there, I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow,
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning’s hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry;
I am not there. I did not die.
Lesley Lorraine Mudie
26th July 1946 - 8th June 2009
The style of blog today is very different, the reason will be immediately clear.
On Sunday 8th June, Lesley Mudie lost her fight for life. She was a friend with one of those wonderful voices on the telephone; you could hear her smile as she spoke.
We will miss her; the large number of people at yesterday's service of Thanksgiving for her life showed clearly that we are not the only ones to feel that way. Andrew Mudie gave a reading which I have always found moving; yesterday, more deeply than ever. Here is the poem.
Do not stand at my grave and weep,
I am not there, I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow,
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning’s hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry;
I am not there. I did not die.
Lesley Lorraine Mudie
26th July 1946 - 8th June 2009
Sunday, 14 June 2009
A FAMILY DAY
Saturday 13th June. Abingdon Lock
Daughter Frances, her husband John and son David paid us a visit today at day’s Lock. A day of boating was decided upon; we went to Abingdon, tied up next to the green below the lock for lunch. A football kick about took place until food was ready to eat. It was then time to retrace our steps to have supper at Days lock before they went home.
As we left Clifton lock, yet again the river level was very low, some five inches down. I really do not know at what they are playing, but managing a river seems way off their mark. Above days lock, we moored for supper, during which time (1 hour) the level fell again leaving Martlet aground at the back end. Thank goodness that we will be off this section, I have had enough of refloating a heavy narrowboat thank you very much.
We arrived at Abingdon, went through the lock and moored against the crane barge as there was no other space.
2009 Totals – Locks 243; Miles 497.5; Bus pass uses 12
Daughter Frances, her husband John and son David paid us a visit today at day’s Lock. A day of boating was decided upon; we went to Abingdon, tied up next to the green below the lock for lunch. A football kick about took place until food was ready to eat. It was then time to retrace our steps to have supper at Days lock before they went home.
As we left Clifton lock, yet again the river level was very low, some five inches down. I really do not know at what they are playing, but managing a river seems way off their mark. Above days lock, we moored for supper, during which time (1 hour) the level fell again leaving Martlet aground at the back end. Thank goodness that we will be off this section, I have had enough of refloating a heavy narrowboat thank you very much.
We arrived at Abingdon, went through the lock and moored against the crane barge as there was no other space.
2009 Totals – Locks 243; Miles 497.5; Bus pass uses 12
Friday, 12 June 2009
FALLING RIVER LEVELS
Friday 12th June. Abingdon Lock
One update to the blog of Wednesday last; the ‘Marlow’ at Salters Yard, Oxford was there for a survey, and not immediately for scrapping. The prospects do not look good as it looked in need of a large sum of money to have it back in revenue earning use.
We arrived at the meadow above days lock at lunchtime on Thursday. The level was a bit down, as although the front was against the bank; I had to hold the back out using a lifebelt, usually at that particular spot, we can moor full length against the bank.
On waking this morning at 6am, I turned over and nearly fell out of bed. The level had gone down a further five inches and we were firmly aground. I pushed out the back using the gang plank and staked the landward end. We were back floating and remained that way all morning.
We then went off for a wander, passing Little Wittenham church and through the wood to Castle hill and on to Wittenham Clumps. Climbing Castle Hill, we disturbed a Green Woodpecker, but managed to watch him by moving slowly forward as he kept a safe distance in front. The visibility was good, we sat on one of the seats and watched the boats on the river, and the views in general.
We returned to our mooring, where there had been two large cruisers rafted up in front of us overnight. The inside one was aground; the outer was OK, and moved off, then began trying to pull the bow of the inner one away from the bank at right angles. It could never work, as they discovered. Both boats disappeared in an enormous cloud of blue smoke from the engines; probably the first time for a few years that they had been at anything like full power.
As I was walking back to Martlet with a view to offering to pull the boat free, a narrowboat came from the lock and offered to have a go. This steerer did know what to do, and pulled the cruiser off backwards: however the cruiser owner had to be told four times to put the engine in reverse! I’ll bet he keeps that quiet at the club – being rescued by a narrowboat!
We moved into another mooring place under the trees; I put down a mud weight before we tied up the front; at least I will be able to back out in case the level drops again tonight.
2009 Totals – Locks 236; Miles 476.5; Bus pass uses 12
One update to the blog of Wednesday last; the ‘Marlow’ at Salters Yard, Oxford was there for a survey, and not immediately for scrapping. The prospects do not look good as it looked in need of a large sum of money to have it back in revenue earning use.
We arrived at the meadow above days lock at lunchtime on Thursday. The level was a bit down, as although the front was against the bank; I had to hold the back out using a lifebelt, usually at that particular spot, we can moor full length against the bank.
On waking this morning at 6am, I turned over and nearly fell out of bed. The level had gone down a further five inches and we were firmly aground. I pushed out the back using the gang plank and staked the landward end. We were back floating and remained that way all morning.
We then went off for a wander, passing Little Wittenham church and through the wood to Castle hill and on to Wittenham Clumps. Climbing Castle Hill, we disturbed a Green Woodpecker, but managed to watch him by moving slowly forward as he kept a safe distance in front. The visibility was good, we sat on one of the seats and watched the boats on the river, and the views in general.
We returned to our mooring, where there had been two large cruisers rafted up in front of us overnight. The inside one was aground; the outer was OK, and moved off, then began trying to pull the bow of the inner one away from the bank at right angles. It could never work, as they discovered. Both boats disappeared in an enormous cloud of blue smoke from the engines; probably the first time for a few years that they had been at anything like full power.
As I was walking back to Martlet with a view to offering to pull the boat free, a narrowboat came from the lock and offered to have a go. This steerer did know what to do, and pulled the cruiser off backwards: however the cruiser owner had to be told four times to put the engine in reverse! I’ll bet he keeps that quiet at the club – being rescued by a narrowboat!
We moved into another mooring place under the trees; I put down a mud weight before we tied up the front; at least I will be able to back out in case the level drops again tonight.
2009 Totals – Locks 236; Miles 476.5; Bus pass uses 12
Wednesday, 10 June 2009
CONCERTINAS AND CHATTING
Wednesday 10th June. Abingdon Lock.
Above Iffley lock,set into the ornamental stonework is the bronze representation of the head of a bull. I was able to have a close look whilst waiting at the lock.
It was presented as a starting ring, to the Oxford University Boat Club in 1924 by Lord Desborough, who was the chairman of the Thames Conservancy; who were the efficient managers of the River Thames and the integral weirs and locks and their keepers. Today, we have the Environment Agency. Quite a contrast in more ways than one.
Passing Salters boatyard, I saw a sad sight. The remains of ‘Marlow’; one of the beautiful river steamers built around the turn of the century. It was in the process of being dismantled and was reduced to gunwhale level. On the bright side if one there is; it must have given pleasure to a lot of people during its long working life.
At Sandford lock, Myra managed at last to meet the summer relief lock keeper
who plays an English Concertina. We moored below the lock out of the way whilst the two of them spoke Concertina; not a tongue with which I am familiar, let alone fluent.
Whilst that conversation was in progress, a shout from the steerer of an approaching narrowboat was heard. It was Mike on Nb Sarah Kate that was based previously at Welford, but now at Heritage on the Macclesfield. I walked to the lock and spoke to Mike and Jo. We compared notes, then I spoke to I believe Jake on Nb. Balmaha; I had been following his blog (http://balmaha.blog.co.uk) and it was good to see the person behind the words.
We carried on to Abingdon, mooring above the lock where a small repair required attention. One of the press studs holding the cratch cover to the shell had come adrift.
Five minutes later, the new pop rivet and fastener were in place and holding well.
After lunch, the heavens opened with 20 minutes of the heaviest rain that I have seen so far this year. You will be the first to know, should this record be broken.
2009 Totals – Locks 233; Miles 469.5; Bus pass uses 12
Above Iffley lock,set into the ornamental stonework is the bronze representation of the head of a bull. I was able to have a close look whilst waiting at the lock.
It was presented as a starting ring, to the Oxford University Boat Club in 1924 by Lord Desborough, who was the chairman of the Thames Conservancy; who were the efficient managers of the River Thames and the integral weirs and locks and their keepers. Today, we have the Environment Agency. Quite a contrast in more ways than one.
Passing Salters boatyard, I saw a sad sight. The remains of ‘Marlow’; one of the beautiful river steamers built around the turn of the century. It was in the process of being dismantled and was reduced to gunwhale level. On the bright side if one there is; it must have given pleasure to a lot of people during its long working life.
At Sandford lock, Myra managed at last to meet the summer relief lock keeper
who plays an English Concertina. We moored below the lock out of the way whilst the two of them spoke Concertina; not a tongue with which I am familiar, let alone fluent.
Whilst that conversation was in progress, a shout from the steerer of an approaching narrowboat was heard. It was Mike on Nb Sarah Kate that was based previously at Welford, but now at Heritage on the Macclesfield. I walked to the lock and spoke to Mike and Jo. We compared notes, then I spoke to I believe Jake on Nb. Balmaha; I had been following his blog (http://balmaha.blog.co.uk) and it was good to see the person behind the words.
We carried on to Abingdon, mooring above the lock where a small repair required attention. One of the press studs holding the cratch cover to the shell had come adrift.
Five minutes later, the new pop rivet and fastener were in place and holding well.
After lunch, the heavens opened with 20 minutes of the heaviest rain that I have seen so far this year. You will be the first to know, should this record be broken.
2009 Totals – Locks 233; Miles 469.5; Bus pass uses 12
OXFORD AGAIN!
Tuesday 9th June. Christ Church Meadow, Oxford.
Kings Lock is the one that we refer to as the first/last ‘Proper’
Lock on the Thames, dependant on the direction of travel.
It has balance beams on the manually operated gates and wheels to raise or lower the manual sluices (paddles on the canal system). The engineering acronym KISS is well applied here.
We arrived at 8am and worked it ourselves; having negotiated the series of bends below the lock, we saw the pontoons from yesterday moored under the A34 bridge at Godstow. Apparently, the river will be restricted to one way passing the work area once all the pontoons are in position.
Myra operated Godstow Lock for the crew of a shared ownership boat, it was their first time on the river. The lady in the crew could not swim and had previously fallen in the canal at Harecastle Tunnel. Was she wearing a lifejacket? No.
Was there an anchor available for immediate use? No
When attempting to stop at Osney lock with a strong stream running, did they use the back rope first? No. Did they almost get across the weir barrier? Yes.
I am the first to complain about over regulation of most aspects of our lives; however in situations as outlined above, I can see a need for some of them.
We carried on through Folly Bridge and moored up on the towpath side of Christ Chruch Meadow, behind Roy and Sue on Baglady, the dutch barge holiday boat.
We chatted to Sue, who was awaiting the return of Roy with their guests.
2009 Totals – Locks 231; Miles 461.5; Bus pass uses 12
Kings Lock is the one that we refer to as the first/last ‘Proper’
Lock on the Thames, dependant on the direction of travel.
It has balance beams on the manually operated gates and wheels to raise or lower the manual sluices (paddles on the canal system). The engineering acronym KISS is well applied here.
We arrived at 8am and worked it ourselves; having negotiated the series of bends below the lock, we saw the pontoons from yesterday moored under the A34 bridge at Godstow. Apparently, the river will be restricted to one way passing the work area once all the pontoons are in position.
Myra operated Godstow Lock for the crew of a shared ownership boat, it was their first time on the river. The lady in the crew could not swim and had previously fallen in the canal at Harecastle Tunnel. Was she wearing a lifejacket? No.
Was there an anchor available for immediate use? No
When attempting to stop at Osney lock with a strong stream running, did they use the back rope first? No. Did they almost get across the weir barrier? Yes.
I am the first to complain about over regulation of most aspects of our lives; however in situations as outlined above, I can see a need for some of them.
We carried on through Folly Bridge and moored up on the towpath side of Christ Chruch Meadow, behind Roy and Sue on Baglady, the dutch barge holiday boat.
We chatted to Sue, who was awaiting the return of Roy with their guests.
2009 Totals – Locks 231; Miles 461.5; Bus pass uses 12
Monday, 8 June 2009
BURFORD
Monday 8th June. Eynsham Lock, Oxford.
We were pleased to see that the weather was dry; we caught the bus to Witney where we changed buses for our destination, Burford. We had driven through many times when we had a light transport business. It was one of the many places at which we had planned to have a closer look.
The driver of the Burford bus was really friendly and helpful to all of his passengers. He made the journey that bit more enjoyable; the countryside was beautiful. One of the nice things about West Oxfordshire, is that the distant views are often dominated by church spires and not agricultural silos or distribution warehouses.
Burford itself had some lovely and interesting buildings on both sides of the very busy main street. The tourist information office was situated in Garne’s Brewery which was bought out by Wadsworths in 1969 and was interesting in itself.
We found a local bakery and just to please Barry Clark, a former colleague, Myra bought two steak and Guinness pies for our lunch. They were so good that two more were bought for us to eat tomorrow!
We had lunch sitting on the churchyard wall overlooking the River Windrush, it was a pleasant place to stop. Refreshed, we looked around the churchyard before entering the church which is dedicated to St. John the Baptist. There are a number of so called 'Bale Tombs' owing to the semi circular shape of the tops. These date from the time of the wollen industry of the area.
The original building is Norman, the present predominantly 15th century appearance masks the works of many different periods. The tower and spire date from the 15th century and the overall effect is a pleasant one.
Inside, there are interesting tombs including table tombs, paintings, beautiful wood carvings and painted decorative woodwork on the pulpit.
Unfortunately, the overall feeling of serenity was ruined for us by a continuously running audio visual display close to the base of the tower. We thought the constant noise and effect was totally out of keeping in a church and we thought it to be tacky.
Returning to Witney, we did a bit of shopping before catching the Eynsham bus back to the boat. We chatted to the crew of a workboat that were moving some pontoons downriver. They are for work to be carried out on the A34 bridge at Godstow. Thye have five more sets to move, some with containers aboard. We went through Eynsham lock before them, as the lock keeper wanted to keep a close watch on the pontoons. According to the measurements, they should have 4 inches to spare entering the lock, they passed us a while later, the measuremants must have been correct!
We filled up with water and moved back downstream to Yarnton Mead, we will moor in Oxford tomorrow.
2009 Totals – Locks 228; Miles 456.5; Bus pass uses 12
We were pleased to see that the weather was dry; we caught the bus to Witney where we changed buses for our destination, Burford. We had driven through many times when we had a light transport business. It was one of the many places at which we had planned to have a closer look.
The driver of the Burford bus was really friendly and helpful to all of his passengers. He made the journey that bit more enjoyable; the countryside was beautiful. One of the nice things about West Oxfordshire, is that the distant views are often dominated by church spires and not agricultural silos or distribution warehouses.
Burford itself had some lovely and interesting buildings on both sides of the very busy main street. The tourist information office was situated in Garne’s Brewery which was bought out by Wadsworths in 1969 and was interesting in itself.
We found a local bakery and just to please Barry Clark, a former colleague, Myra bought two steak and Guinness pies for our lunch. They were so good that two more were bought for us to eat tomorrow!
We had lunch sitting on the churchyard wall overlooking the River Windrush, it was a pleasant place to stop. Refreshed, we looked around the churchyard before entering the church which is dedicated to St. John the Baptist. There are a number of so called 'Bale Tombs' owing to the semi circular shape of the tops. These date from the time of the wollen industry of the area.
The original building is Norman, the present predominantly 15th century appearance masks the works of many different periods. The tower and spire date from the 15th century and the overall effect is a pleasant one.
Inside, there are interesting tombs including table tombs, paintings, beautiful wood carvings and painted decorative woodwork on the pulpit.
Unfortunately, the overall feeling of serenity was ruined for us by a continuously running audio visual display close to the base of the tower. We thought the constant noise and effect was totally out of keeping in a church and we thought it to be tacky.
Returning to Witney, we did a bit of shopping before catching the Eynsham bus back to the boat. We chatted to the crew of a workboat that were moving some pontoons downriver. They are for work to be carried out on the A34 bridge at Godstow. Thye have five more sets to move, some with containers aboard. We went through Eynsham lock before them, as the lock keeper wanted to keep a close watch on the pontoons. According to the measurements, they should have 4 inches to spare entering the lock, they passed us a while later, the measuremants must have been correct!
We filled up with water and moved back downstream to Yarnton Mead, we will moor in Oxford tomorrow.
2009 Totals – Locks 228; Miles 456.5; Bus pass uses 12
DODGING THE SHOWERS
Sunday 7th June. Eynsham Lock, Oxford.
The promised downpour arrived at about 6am, hammering on the roof and the windows. It then changed to a light drizzle before stopping altogether.
I later filled the stern tube greaser; ate lunch and untied Martlet.
We headed up to Eynsham lock and the visitor moorings. It began to rain as we approached, by the time that we had finished with the ropes it was raining heavily.
Fifteen minutes later, it was a hailstorm. I love the English summer, especially when I am inside looking out at it. Fortunately, we have a good stock of as yet unread books together with the Saturday newspaper. During a brief respite, Myra had her usual swim; I was floating a lifebuoy on a length of rope very close by. This was because of the unusual currents against the moorings caused by the weir opposite. As she climbed out of the water, the rain started again. Oh well, back to the books and put on the kettle.
2009 Totals – Locks 226; Miles 454.5; Bus pass uses 8
The promised downpour arrived at about 6am, hammering on the roof and the windows. It then changed to a light drizzle before stopping altogether.
I later filled the stern tube greaser; ate lunch and untied Martlet.
We headed up to Eynsham lock and the visitor moorings. It began to rain as we approached, by the time that we had finished with the ropes it was raining heavily.
Fifteen minutes later, it was a hailstorm. I love the English summer, especially when I am inside looking out at it. Fortunately, we have a good stock of as yet unread books together with the Saturday newspaper. During a brief respite, Myra had her usual swim; I was floating a lifebuoy on a length of rope very close by. This was because of the unusual currents against the moorings caused by the weir opposite. As she climbed out of the water, the rain started again. Oh well, back to the books and put on the kettle.
2009 Totals – Locks 226; Miles 454.5; Bus pass uses 8
Saturday, 6 June 2009
NARROWBOATING WEATHER
Saturday 6th June. Yarnton Mead, Oxford.
How come the weather forecast is only accurate when bad weather is predicted?
They were 100% correct today; we waited until the rain eased to a light drizzle before walking off to buy a paper and post a letter. Finding a newsagents shop was easy; the post box was harder. I would complain in writing to the Royal Mail, only by the time that I had found somewhere to post the letter; the Royal Mail would probably belong to Deusche Post or TNT and would require the complaint to be written in German or Dutch.
We traipsed back to Martlet and started to read the papers. During a spell of drizzle after lunch, we moved off and headed for Yarnton Mead near Kings Lock. As we passed by the Oxford Ice rink, the adjacent green was host to a fair. The weather was anything but: the stall holders outnumbered the visitors; it seemed a shame when you think of the effort needed to put it all together.
Passing along Port Meadow, we threaded our way between the rowers and their coaches by staying in the centre of the river and maintaining speed. Some of the novices looked as though they were enjoying themselves, which is always good to see.
Having passed through Kings Lock, we tied up and the rain became heavier; we are promised a downpour early tomorrow morning – it will make a change!
2009 Totals – Locks 226; Miles 452.5; Bus pass uses 8
How come the weather forecast is only accurate when bad weather is predicted?
They were 100% correct today; we waited until the rain eased to a light drizzle before walking off to buy a paper and post a letter. Finding a newsagents shop was easy; the post box was harder. I would complain in writing to the Royal Mail, only by the time that I had found somewhere to post the letter; the Royal Mail would probably belong to Deusche Post or TNT and would require the complaint to be written in German or Dutch.
We traipsed back to Martlet and started to read the papers. During a spell of drizzle after lunch, we moved off and headed for Yarnton Mead near Kings Lock. As we passed by the Oxford Ice rink, the adjacent green was host to a fair. The weather was anything but: the stall holders outnumbered the visitors; it seemed a shame when you think of the effort needed to put it all together.
Passing along Port Meadow, we threaded our way between the rowers and their coaches by staying in the centre of the river and maintaining speed. Some of the novices looked as though they were enjoying themselves, which is always good to see.
Having passed through Kings Lock, we tied up and the rain became heavier; we are promised a downpour early tomorrow morning – it will make a change!
2009 Totals – Locks 226; Miles 452.5; Bus pass uses 8
THE THREATENED CLOUD HAS PASSED AWAY
Friday 5th June. Christ Church Meadow, Oxford.
Listening to Radio 4 the other morning, a spokesman from the wonderfully titled ‘Cloud Appreciation Society’ had been talking about some type of clouds which had been seen rarely above Great Britain. He suggested a suitable name could be ‘Undulus Asperatus’; indicating a very turbulent, violent, chaotic form of undulation.
This morning whilst travelling from Abingdon to Oxford; we saw them. I was amazed and had never seen their like before. It was as if the special effects department of Pinewood Studios was working overtime. I found the results overbearing; I could imagine how such things could have caused a riot in the middle ages.
I have taken a few photographs and even now; with the evidence before me, I find them some of the most unusual clouds that I had ever seen. They passed over quite quickly and were replaced by more conventional cover of a lighter nature.
We passed through Sandford lock slowly; Myra chatted to the lock keeper about Concertinas. The arrival of a boat wishing to use the lock cut the conversations short and we moved on. Through Iffley lock and were soon mooring against the towpath opposite Christ Church Meadow as the drizzle turned to rain.
2009 Totals – Locks 223; Miles 447.5; Bus pass uses 8
Listening to Radio 4 the other morning, a spokesman from the wonderfully titled ‘Cloud Appreciation Society’ had been talking about some type of clouds which had been seen rarely above Great Britain. He suggested a suitable name could be ‘Undulus Asperatus’; indicating a very turbulent, violent, chaotic form of undulation.
This morning whilst travelling from Abingdon to Oxford; we saw them. I was amazed and had never seen their like before. It was as if the special effects department of Pinewood Studios was working overtime. I found the results overbearing; I could imagine how such things could have caused a riot in the middle ages.
I have taken a few photographs and even now; with the evidence before me, I find them some of the most unusual clouds that I had ever seen. They passed over quite quickly and were replaced by more conventional cover of a lighter nature.
We passed through Sandford lock slowly; Myra chatted to the lock keeper about Concertinas. The arrival of a boat wishing to use the lock cut the conversations short and we moved on. Through Iffley lock and were soon mooring against the towpath opposite Christ Church Meadow as the drizzle turned to rain.
2009 Totals – Locks 223; Miles 447.5; Bus pass uses 8
Thursday, 4 June 2009
BARKING MAD
Thursday 4th June. Abingdon, River Thames.
All life is here. I took a photograph of larvae hatching out on our windows. Well, they were not only on the windows – the whole of the river side of the boat was covered in them.
At 7.50am, it was sunny as we moved off, the wind again chilly.
Benson Lock was the first one today, very little flow off the weir which makes the approach to the lock mooring easier. Once through the lock, the sun was heating up nicely. Myra dropped off one paperback for the RNLI book box at Days lock and bought three more. In contrast to the weekend, when the moorings were full, only one boat was moored above the lock.
Arriving at Clifton Lock we waited whilst the tug and crane outriggers went up in the lock. When the gates opened for us, rowing boats emerged on their way to Beale Park for the boat show this weekend. There were some nice shaped ones and a sailing canoe.
Waiting at Culham lock, we heard the sound of a dog barking. A boat was coming up behind us with the dog running up and down on the roof, barking all the time.
We entered the lock and so did this other boat. The dog stopped barking when the engine was switched off: yes, as soon as the engine started up, so did the dog.
I could not see any wire from the starter circuit to the dog; I suppose that it must have been a radio signal. The dog barked continuously, and as soon as we left the lock cut, I stopped to let the boat with the inconsiderate steerer and his untrained dog get well ahead and out of hearing.
We chatted to Roger the lock keeper and his summer assistant at Abingdon, then through and moored at Ferry meadow in the middle of nowhere, quiet and still sunny.
2009 Totals – Locks 221; Miles 439.5; Bus pass uses 8
All life is here. I took a photograph of larvae hatching out on our windows. Well, they were not only on the windows – the whole of the river side of the boat was covered in them.
At 7.50am, it was sunny as we moved off, the wind again chilly.
Benson Lock was the first one today, very little flow off the weir which makes the approach to the lock mooring easier. Once through the lock, the sun was heating up nicely. Myra dropped off one paperback for the RNLI book box at Days lock and bought three more. In contrast to the weekend, when the moorings were full, only one boat was moored above the lock.
Arriving at Clifton Lock we waited whilst the tug and crane outriggers went up in the lock. When the gates opened for us, rowing boats emerged on their way to Beale Park for the boat show this weekend. There were some nice shaped ones and a sailing canoe.
Waiting at Culham lock, we heard the sound of a dog barking. A boat was coming up behind us with the dog running up and down on the roof, barking all the time.
We entered the lock and so did this other boat. The dog stopped barking when the engine was switched off: yes, as soon as the engine started up, so did the dog.
I could not see any wire from the starter circuit to the dog; I suppose that it must have been a radio signal. The dog barked continuously, and as soon as we left the lock cut, I stopped to let the boat with the inconsiderate steerer and his untrained dog get well ahead and out of hearing.
We chatted to Roger the lock keeper and his summer assistant at Abingdon, then through and moored at Ferry meadow in the middle of nowhere, quiet and still sunny.
2009 Totals – Locks 221; Miles 439.5; Bus pass uses 8
Wednesday, 3 June 2009
NATIONAL BLOOD SERVICE IMPROVEMENTS
Wednesday 3rd June. Wallingford, River Thames.
The colours seemed very vivid as the sun had not risen above the trees opposite Beale Park. We started off heading into a chilly wind at 7.40am. There were Grebes and their young, various geese with theirs as well as families of ducks. We were passing through a floating kindergarten, the young almost flying along on the surface when they realised that they had dropped behind. It made us smile which always is a good way to begin the day.
Goring lock which was set for user operation, we therefore used our system. Myra gets off and when the boat is in the lock, she takes the front rope and makes it fast to a bollard. She then goes to the front gate control panel. By then I have lassoed a bollard at the rear, and also climb off. I go back, close the gates and lower the sluices. She then opens the other sluices as I control the boat, rising or falling, on the back rope. This works well for us and reduces the amount of unwanted movement of the boat.
We filled the water tank at Cleeve lock and then headed for Wallingford. We broke the journey at Moulsford, calling in at Sheridan Marine for a spare control cable to replace the one fitted by River Canal Rescue. Everyone was friendly, really helpful and good humoured, and the cable was in stock. On our last visit, we must have caught them on a bad day.
We moored at Wallingford and went for a wander around after lunch. We were looking down an alleyway when Myra saw two Blood transfusion service vans parked. She was going to call in at the Oxford Donating centre before we leave the area; she followed the signs and made her 80th donation today. She has four different donation cards and numbers as she has gives blood wherever we happen to be and none of the areas could talk to each other. Today, she had none of the cards with her; the nurse found the details both of Myra and her donations immediately on the computer. Myra had been writing and telephoning the Blood service for at least six years trying to make thing easier when donating in different places, to no avail. At one time, she held six cards! It would seem that things have improved at last; her next donation in another location will prove it one way or the other.
2009 Totals – Locks 216; Miles 425.5; Bus pass uses 8
The colours seemed very vivid as the sun had not risen above the trees opposite Beale Park. We started off heading into a chilly wind at 7.40am. There were Grebes and their young, various geese with theirs as well as families of ducks. We were passing through a floating kindergarten, the young almost flying along on the surface when they realised that they had dropped behind. It made us smile which always is a good way to begin the day.
Goring lock which was set for user operation, we therefore used our system. Myra gets off and when the boat is in the lock, she takes the front rope and makes it fast to a bollard. She then goes to the front gate control panel. By then I have lassoed a bollard at the rear, and also climb off. I go back, close the gates and lower the sluices. She then opens the other sluices as I control the boat, rising or falling, on the back rope. This works well for us and reduces the amount of unwanted movement of the boat.
We filled the water tank at Cleeve lock and then headed for Wallingford. We broke the journey at Moulsford, calling in at Sheridan Marine for a spare control cable to replace the one fitted by River Canal Rescue. Everyone was friendly, really helpful and good humoured, and the cable was in stock. On our last visit, we must have caught them on a bad day.
We moored at Wallingford and went for a wander around after lunch. We were looking down an alleyway when Myra saw two Blood transfusion service vans parked. She was going to call in at the Oxford Donating centre before we leave the area; she followed the signs and made her 80th donation today. She has four different donation cards and numbers as she has gives blood wherever we happen to be and none of the areas could talk to each other. Today, she had none of the cards with her; the nurse found the details both of Myra and her donations immediately on the computer. Myra had been writing and telephoning the Blood service for at least six years trying to make thing easier when donating in different places, to no avail. At one time, she held six cards! It would seem that things have improved at last; her next donation in another location will prove it one way or the other.
2009 Totals – Locks 216; Miles 425.5; Bus pass uses 8
FOOD AND DIESEL, AN INTERESTING MIX
Tuesday 2nd June, Beale Park, River Thames
Breakfast was taken inside, as the sun was heating up, enough breeze to keep it a bit cool – it was only 7.15am after all.
We went down to Caversham; Myra visited the Tesco store whilst I filled the diesel tank on Martlet at Better Boating. Their base price was 70p; with our 60/40 split it worked out to be 94p. Just as well, I put in 120 litres. We always use more on rivers, as part of the time we are against the stream; we tend to travel a bit faster with the sheer luxury of having sufficient depth under the skeg.
I went into Tesco to buy some beer and lemonade; should this warm weather continue, we want to have plenty of ingredients for making shandy on board.The Black swans were still at Caversham, their family had grown quite a bit since the end of April.
There was a hold up at Mapledurham lock as the summer assistant was not keeping a good look out, closing the gates on us as and an Environment Agency Tug as we approached.
By the time he had filled and then drained the lock, the waiting queue consisted of us; the EA tug, a privately owned tug with a barge and a wooden cruiser.
The wooden cruiser had to wait as the lock was full up with two tugs, the barge and us. We stopped at Beale Park for the night and Myra had her swim: about the same temperature as yesterday was her comment.
2009 Totals – Locks 214; Miles 417; Bus pass uses 8
Breakfast was taken inside, as the sun was heating up, enough breeze to keep it a bit cool – it was only 7.15am after all.
We went down to Caversham; Myra visited the Tesco store whilst I filled the diesel tank on Martlet at Better Boating. Their base price was 70p; with our 60/40 split it worked out to be 94p. Just as well, I put in 120 litres. We always use more on rivers, as part of the time we are against the stream; we tend to travel a bit faster with the sheer luxury of having sufficient depth under the skeg.
I went into Tesco to buy some beer and lemonade; should this warm weather continue, we want to have plenty of ingredients for making shandy on board.The Black swans were still at Caversham, their family had grown quite a bit since the end of April.
There was a hold up at Mapledurham lock as the summer assistant was not keeping a good look out, closing the gates on us as and an Environment Agency Tug as we approached.
By the time he had filled and then drained the lock, the waiting queue consisted of us; the EA tug, a privately owned tug with a barge and a wooden cruiser.
The wooden cruiser had to wait as the lock was full up with two tugs, the barge and us. We stopped at Beale Park for the night and Myra had her swim: about the same temperature as yesterday was her comment.
2009 Totals – Locks 214; Miles 417; Bus pass uses 8
Tuesday, 2 June 2009
BOVINE ALARM CLOCK
Monday 1st June, Gatehampton, River Thames
A glorious day was dawning as the 4.50am alarm call that we did not request caused us to awaken. Cows were chatting to each other as they chewed the grass next to the boat. Thanks a bunch, but the sunrise looked very good. Having persuaded them not to eat our fenders or the towel on the side lockers, I went back to bed and dozed off.
Under a clear blue, sunny sky with a slight chill from the wind, we set off at the crack of 9.20am. All went fine until we reached Benson Lock; I had put the prop into reverse to slow down, that was OK. When I selected forward and increased revs, I was going faster in reverse! The gearbox selector cable had broken; it had been installed only ten years: no wonder that we lost the Empire.
We carry a spare; I began to dismantle the control lever assembly and having a few unsuccessful tries to remove it from the housing, I realised that I could not change the cable unless I did.
Plan B was put in place – telephone River Canal Rescue! We waited; sitting in the sun watching the different standards of rope throwing from the boat crews in the lock – fascinating.
The engineer attended and did the job whilst I watched so that I would be able to do the next one, hopefully in another ten years time. Although the skill of the call out engineers remains excellent, I have noticed that the office standards have slipped a bit over the last couple of years.
We had a snack lunch on the move and tied up by Gatehampton Railway Bridge with distant views to the hills. Myra had her daily swim, pronouncing the water to be colder than on Sunday.
2009 Totals – Locks 208; Miles 393; Bus pass uses 8
A glorious day was dawning as the 4.50am alarm call that we did not request caused us to awaken. Cows were chatting to each other as they chewed the grass next to the boat. Thanks a bunch, but the sunrise looked very good. Having persuaded them not to eat our fenders or the towel on the side lockers, I went back to bed and dozed off.
Under a clear blue, sunny sky with a slight chill from the wind, we set off at the crack of 9.20am. All went fine until we reached Benson Lock; I had put the prop into reverse to slow down, that was OK. When I selected forward and increased revs, I was going faster in reverse! The gearbox selector cable had broken; it had been installed only ten years: no wonder that we lost the Empire.
We carry a spare; I began to dismantle the control lever assembly and having a few unsuccessful tries to remove it from the housing, I realised that I could not change the cable unless I did.
Plan B was put in place – telephone River Canal Rescue! We waited; sitting in the sun watching the different standards of rope throwing from the boat crews in the lock – fascinating.
The engineer attended and did the job whilst I watched so that I would be able to do the next one, hopefully in another ten years time. Although the skill of the call out engineers remains excellent, I have noticed that the office standards have slipped a bit over the last couple of years.
We had a snack lunch on the move and tied up by Gatehampton Railway Bridge with distant views to the hills. Myra had her daily swim, pronouncing the water to be colder than on Sunday.
2009 Totals – Locks 208; Miles 393; Bus pass uses 8
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