Thursday, 30 April 2009
Pooh sticks
Thursday evening, 30th April, moored at Days lock meadow mooring.
I have given up listening to the BBC weather forecasts on Radio 4.
I am not aware of having mislaid many of my marbles; most days the weather types are grouped together with scant regard to any geographical location. A few presenters are able to mention the areas, but not often. Scotland and Northern Ireland are now over represented at the expense of the 'rest of England and Wales'.
We got going at 8am to try and beat the rain that had been forecast on the internet for 10am. It was a little late, bless it; we were at Wallingford when it started at 10.25am. Arriving at Goring lock, 'Ten Bob Note' was moored there; it is a boat that we had moved on behalf of ABNB a few years ago; the owner is a fellow blogger. I would have said Hello, but it was early and I could not see anyone moving about.
We carried on through Goring and Cleeve locks, clearing them by 9.10am.
I managed to photograph one of the refurbished First Great Western class 453 sets on Moulsford bridge as we approached; it seemed strange to pass this area as we usually moor there for a day or two.
The first boat that we saw on the move was approaching from under Wallingford bridge; it has been really quiet since we arrived on the Thames a week ago.
Today, we saw only three other boats moving, one dropping in Benson Lock and one in Days lock and the hire boat with which we shared Sonning lock yesterday.
We passed the time of day chatting to the lock keeper at days lock whilst choosing some books from the boxes outside and popping our money into the RNLI collecting box.
We moored alongside the meadow just above the lock, close to one of the best preserved WW2 pill boxes that I have seen.
Little Wittenham Bridge at Days Lock is the venue for the annual Pooh Sticks competition which raises funds for the RNLI; although the original Pooh sticks bridge is in Ashdown Forest, near Hartfield in East Sussex.
Having tied up for the day, the rain continued most of the afternoon.
2009 Totals - Locks 130; Miles 182; Bus Pass uses 2.
I have given up listening to the BBC weather forecasts on Radio 4.
I am not aware of having mislaid many of my marbles; most days the weather types are grouped together with scant regard to any geographical location. A few presenters are able to mention the areas, but not often. Scotland and Northern Ireland are now over represented at the expense of the 'rest of England and Wales'.
We got going at 8am to try and beat the rain that had been forecast on the internet for 10am. It was a little late, bless it; we were at Wallingford when it started at 10.25am. Arriving at Goring lock, 'Ten Bob Note' was moored there; it is a boat that we had moved on behalf of ABNB a few years ago; the owner is a fellow blogger. I would have said Hello, but it was early and I could not see anyone moving about.
We carried on through Goring and Cleeve locks, clearing them by 9.10am.
I managed to photograph one of the refurbished First Great Western class 453 sets on Moulsford bridge as we approached; it seemed strange to pass this area as we usually moor there for a day or two.
The first boat that we saw on the move was approaching from under Wallingford bridge; it has been really quiet since we arrived on the Thames a week ago.
Today, we saw only three other boats moving, one dropping in Benson Lock and one in Days lock and the hire boat with which we shared Sonning lock yesterday.
We passed the time of day chatting to the lock keeper at days lock whilst choosing some books from the boxes outside and popping our money into the RNLI collecting box.
We moored alongside the meadow just above the lock, close to one of the best preserved WW2 pill boxes that I have seen.
Little Wittenham Bridge at Days Lock is the venue for the annual Pooh Sticks competition which raises funds for the RNLI; although the original Pooh sticks bridge is in Ashdown Forest, near Hartfield in East Sussex.
Having tied up for the day, the rain continued most of the afternoon.
2009 Totals - Locks 130; Miles 182; Bus Pass uses 2.
Wednesday, 29 April 2009
Sunshine again!
Wednesday Evening, 29th April, Beale Park, Pangbourne
A cloudless blue sky and mist slowly rising above the water surface were the first sights to register in my mind this morning. What a way to start the day; we had a leisurely breakfast and prepared to move off. There was no point in an early start as the first lock, Shiplake, has not been converted to power, for user operation.
This would mean by hand, something like 120 turns of the wheel to raise the sluices, 120 turns to open the gates and then the same number to close them. The same number for the top gates; and same again to close. Now you can see why we chose to wait for the keeper to arrive at 9am.
It took us 20 minutes to get through the lock: 5 minutes for the lock operation and 15 minutes chatting to the relief keeper and the lock keeper. That, for us, is one of the pleasures of boating.
We saw our first Kingfisher of this trip above the lock; he sat in the reeds and watched us go by.
Myra made a good job of steering through the tricky bridge before Sonning lock; there is a strong cross flow from the old mill stream almost at right angles just before the bridge. People were watching; gloating was not allowed. As our friend Dave Griffiths would say ‘it is not big and it is not clever’
I dropped her off to go to Tesco at Caversham; I mentioned to a boater that I was going to get some diesel, its cheaper at the big marina was his advice. I did and the effect of a 60/40 split meant that the price per litre was £1.00. I will sit down sometime with my calculator and work out what that means in English.
Having boosted the profits of Tesco yet again, we arrived at Caversham lock to find it was set for user operation. The top gate set up was such that the sluice green flashing light would not stop flashing, allowing the gates to be opened, even although the water level had been made. We were waiting for the time interval to pass when a boater arrived who was going down the lock. He came up and promptly pushed one of the buttons, thus delaying the whole sequence further. What a wally.
I telephoned the EA local office and was told that Caversham lock is particularly slow on the top sluice light, but that it would eventually stop flashing. I suggested (politely) that a notice to that effect on the panel would be a good idea.
We were intending to tie up at Beale Park, above Pangbourne: Whitchurch lock was the last one for us today. Immediately before the lock is Whitchurch Toll Bridge, one of two remaining on the Thames; the other being at Eynsham, near Oxford. There has been a toll bridge at Whitchurch since 1792: the present one was completed early in 1902, designed by Joseph Morris and built by the Cleveland Engineering and Bridge company.
2009 Totals – Locks 126; Miles 168; Bus pass uses 2.
A cloudless blue sky and mist slowly rising above the water surface were the first sights to register in my mind this morning. What a way to start the day; we had a leisurely breakfast and prepared to move off. There was no point in an early start as the first lock, Shiplake, has not been converted to power, for user operation.
This would mean by hand, something like 120 turns of the wheel to raise the sluices, 120 turns to open the gates and then the same number to close them. The same number for the top gates; and same again to close. Now you can see why we chose to wait for the keeper to arrive at 9am.
It took us 20 minutes to get through the lock: 5 minutes for the lock operation and 15 minutes chatting to the relief keeper and the lock keeper. That, for us, is one of the pleasures of boating.
We saw our first Kingfisher of this trip above the lock; he sat in the reeds and watched us go by.
Myra made a good job of steering through the tricky bridge before Sonning lock; there is a strong cross flow from the old mill stream almost at right angles just before the bridge. People were watching; gloating was not allowed. As our friend Dave Griffiths would say ‘it is not big and it is not clever’
I dropped her off to go to Tesco at Caversham; I mentioned to a boater that I was going to get some diesel, its cheaper at the big marina was his advice. I did and the effect of a 60/40 split meant that the price per litre was £1.00. I will sit down sometime with my calculator and work out what that means in English.
Having boosted the profits of Tesco yet again, we arrived at Caversham lock to find it was set for user operation. The top gate set up was such that the sluice green flashing light would not stop flashing, allowing the gates to be opened, even although the water level had been made. We were waiting for the time interval to pass when a boater arrived who was going down the lock. He came up and promptly pushed one of the buttons, thus delaying the whole sequence further. What a wally.
I telephoned the EA local office and was told that Caversham lock is particularly slow on the top sluice light, but that it would eventually stop flashing. I suggested (politely) that a notice to that effect on the panel would be a good idea.
We were intending to tie up at Beale Park, above Pangbourne: Whitchurch lock was the last one for us today. Immediately before the lock is Whitchurch Toll Bridge, one of two remaining on the Thames; the other being at Eynsham, near Oxford. There has been a toll bridge at Whitchurch since 1792: the present one was completed early in 1902, designed by Joseph Morris and built by the Cleveland Engineering and Bridge company.
2009 Totals – Locks 126; Miles 168; Bus pass uses 2.
Tuesday, 28 April 2009
Good Kite flying weather
Tuesday Evening, 28th April, Wargrave Meadow
Before leaving Marlow, we needed to visit a charity shop, as we had a bag of paperback books to donate. Whilst looking around, we saw a Marks and Spencer food store - Myra had one of their 'Bags for Life' that required replacing, it was duly done.
I took a closer look at the suspension bridge. It was was opened in September 1832; designed by William Tierney Clarke, FRS, MICE who had worked under both Thomas Telford and John Rennie. He also designed the original Norfolk suspension bridge across the River Adur at Shoreham By Sea, where I lived from 1947 until 1965.
I was walking back from the bridge when I saw one of the Google Street view camera cars. Interestingly, this car was displaying no markings or advertisements; perhaps they have been having more problems with people blocking roads to prevent access.
The Sun was shining as we left our mooring spot, we went up through two locks and we had a long chat with some people out for a walk above Hurley lock. I was chatting to a retired RAF pilot. He had trained on Tiger Moths and Harvards; he then flew Meteors and Canberras. A very pleasant and interesting gentleman; I could have listened to him all day, but we had to carry on as are meeting two of our grandchildren at Abingdon on Saturday morning.
Approaching Medmendham, we saw a lot of Kites soaring about. As we approached, they were swooping down and landing on newly turned earth behind two tractors and their ploughs. We had never seen so many Kites together; we lost count at 30, they could have been as many as 50. They were beautiful; mostly Red Kites with a few Black ones in amongst them.
We had Henley Reach to ourselves and enjoyed the buildings and boats as we approached the town; some nicely kept slipper launches and skiffs. There was a Cornish Crabber moored close to the bridge, I do like them!
Passing through Henley and arriving at Marsh lock, we chatted to Lawrence, the lock keeper. We were only the 5th boat that he had penned through today. He wondered where they have all gone as he knew that most of the hire fleets are almost fully booked up.
We tied up at wargrave Marsh, on one of our favourite places and enjoyed the last of the sunshine as grey clouds were building up. A Mandarin Duck swam past producing a splash of colour.
Sorry, no photos today, Blogger reports internal server error. I will try again tomorrow morning.
2009 Totals – Locks 121; Miles 154; Bus pass uses 2.
Before leaving Marlow, we needed to visit a charity shop, as we had a bag of paperback books to donate. Whilst looking around, we saw a Marks and Spencer food store - Myra had one of their 'Bags for Life' that required replacing, it was duly done.
I took a closer look at the suspension bridge. It was was opened in September 1832; designed by William Tierney Clarke, FRS, MICE who had worked under both Thomas Telford and John Rennie. He also designed the original Norfolk suspension bridge across the River Adur at Shoreham By Sea, where I lived from 1947 until 1965.
I was walking back from the bridge when I saw one of the Google Street view camera cars. Interestingly, this car was displaying no markings or advertisements; perhaps they have been having more problems with people blocking roads to prevent access.
The Sun was shining as we left our mooring spot, we went up through two locks and we had a long chat with some people out for a walk above Hurley lock. I was chatting to a retired RAF pilot. He had trained on Tiger Moths and Harvards; he then flew Meteors and Canberras. A very pleasant and interesting gentleman; I could have listened to him all day, but we had to carry on as are meeting two of our grandchildren at Abingdon on Saturday morning.
Approaching Medmendham, we saw a lot of Kites soaring about. As we approached, they were swooping down and landing on newly turned earth behind two tractors and their ploughs. We had never seen so many Kites together; we lost count at 30, they could have been as many as 50. They were beautiful; mostly Red Kites with a few Black ones in amongst them.
We had Henley Reach to ourselves and enjoyed the buildings and boats as we approached the town; some nicely kept slipper launches and skiffs. There was a Cornish Crabber moored close to the bridge, I do like them!
Passing through Henley and arriving at Marsh lock, we chatted to Lawrence, the lock keeper. We were only the 5th boat that he had penned through today. He wondered where they have all gone as he knew that most of the hire fleets are almost fully booked up.
We tied up at wargrave Marsh, on one of our favourite places and enjoyed the last of the sunshine as grey clouds were building up. A Mandarin Duck swam past producing a splash of colour.
Sorry, no photos today, Blogger reports internal server error. I will try again tomorrow morning.
2009 Totals – Locks 121; Miles 154; Bus pass uses 2.
Monday, 27 April 2009
Brunel and Badgers
Monday Evening, 27th April, Marlow.
Life afloat is often full of variety. So it proved to be this morning. It was an auger that shook me from my slumbers. This was not the one inch type as was used in a brace and bit; but a hydraulic powered, 30feet high vertically mounted, crawler tracked foundation digger. No doubt another high building will grace the Windsor waterfront by the time of our next visit; let us hope that the castle will remain in view from the river, after all – it is known also as the Royal River!
We moved off under grey skies and heavy drizzle which alternated with rain over the next two hours. I decided to stop at Maidenhead for lunch, in order to have a break from watching the rain dripping off the brim of my hat. I can take only so much excitement nowadays.
The rain did not stop me from admiring another wonderful structure created by Isambard Kingdom Brunel in 1837-8, namely his Maidenhead Railway Bridge.
The two semi-elliptical arches are each of 128 feet in length, with a rise of only 24 feet and remain the widest and flattest brick arches in the world.
There is a story that when Brunel showed his plans, the arches were said to be too flat to support the weight of the bridge and trains.
Brunel agreed to leave in place; the timber centerings, in order that they could give additional support. These blew down in a storm several months later, leaving the bridge standing firm and unaided. Brunel had previously and secretly eased the timber supports clear of the bridge, telling no one. His confidence in his own ability was again proved to be well founded.
The bridge was widened by Sir John Fowler in 1890-3 to accommodate quadruple tracks.
Moving away again after lunch, the rain continued. Cookham reach today had a sombre feeling, slightly misty and very wet. It is dominated by the magnificiently situated mansion of Cliveden, known now as the 'Cliveden House Luxury Hotel' but was previously owned by the Astor family.
The cabin stove was lit approaching Marlow. Having tied up some 20 minutes later, the rain stopped for a while, but it remained showery.
Myra was at the sink, preparing supper when she called out, ‘Look, a Badger!’
Looking out from the nettles across the towpath, only six feet from the boat, was the snout of a Badger, sniffing around. I had moved out of sight to get the camera when a group of three Mallards waddled quickly up to the Badger and it retreated into the nettles, closely followed by all three ducks. Two came out again very quackly (sorry!), the other one was almost a minute later. It was unharmed, very strange happenings. We walked up to the nettles and could see the start of a defined run through from the path. We could also see the nettles moving as the Badger made his way deeper into the coppice.
2009 Totals – Locks 117; Miles 143; Bus pass uses 2.
Life afloat is often full of variety. So it proved to be this morning. It was an auger that shook me from my slumbers. This was not the one inch type as was used in a brace and bit; but a hydraulic powered, 30feet high vertically mounted, crawler tracked foundation digger. No doubt another high building will grace the Windsor waterfront by the time of our next visit; let us hope that the castle will remain in view from the river, after all – it is known also as the Royal River!
We moved off under grey skies and heavy drizzle which alternated with rain over the next two hours. I decided to stop at Maidenhead for lunch, in order to have a break from watching the rain dripping off the brim of my hat. I can take only so much excitement nowadays.
The rain did not stop me from admiring another wonderful structure created by Isambard Kingdom Brunel in 1837-8, namely his Maidenhead Railway Bridge.
The two semi-elliptical arches are each of 128 feet in length, with a rise of only 24 feet and remain the widest and flattest brick arches in the world.
There is a story that when Brunel showed his plans, the arches were said to be too flat to support the weight of the bridge and trains.
Brunel agreed to leave in place; the timber centerings, in order that they could give additional support. These blew down in a storm several months later, leaving the bridge standing firm and unaided. Brunel had previously and secretly eased the timber supports clear of the bridge, telling no one. His confidence in his own ability was again proved to be well founded.
The bridge was widened by Sir John Fowler in 1890-3 to accommodate quadruple tracks.
Moving away again after lunch, the rain continued. Cookham reach today had a sombre feeling, slightly misty and very wet. It is dominated by the magnificiently situated mansion of Cliveden, known now as the 'Cliveden House Luxury Hotel' but was previously owned by the Astor family.
The cabin stove was lit approaching Marlow. Having tied up some 20 minutes later, the rain stopped for a while, but it remained showery.
Myra was at the sink, preparing supper when she called out, ‘Look, a Badger!’
Looking out from the nettles across the towpath, only six feet from the boat, was the snout of a Badger, sniffing around. I had moved out of sight to get the camera when a group of three Mallards waddled quickly up to the Badger and it retreated into the nettles, closely followed by all three ducks. Two came out again very quackly (sorry!), the other one was almost a minute later. It was unharmed, very strange happenings. We walked up to the nettles and could see the start of a defined run through from the path. We could also see the nettles moving as the Badger made his way deeper into the coppice.
2009 Totals – Locks 117; Miles 143; Bus pass uses 2.
Sunday, 26 April 2009
Sunshine again!
Well honestly, yesterday morning it was rain that woke me up; today I managed all by myself and was pleased to see sunlight reflected on the cabin roof. The was no sign of any clouds whatsoever. Breakfast was taken and we decided to head for Windsor, the forecast was not quite so good for Monday.
We arrived at Shepperton lock before the lockkeeper and were able to check on the out of hours self operation arrangement. It was really simple to understand; a marked contast from BW's numerous differing schemes. No key required, a lot of the problems that we have experienced with BW schemes have been key related.
Leaving the lock, there was a Humber Keel in full sailing order tied up with two Dutch barges, it is good to see them in use; they are a lot of work to keep them in that condition.
More cheerful lockkeepers, with the well known and well documented exception close to the M25, I will not name him or his lock.
Passing Laleham, I always have a good look at the boatyard of Mike Dennett; some nice shaped boats ouside, with another out of the water on the ways. Not quite as many Dutch barges as last time approaching Staines.
We passed Runnymede as a Dragon boat being paddled for all the crew were worth coame towards us. Not a smile or grimace amongst them - miserable lot. We made our way to Old Windsor lock, we penned up and then stopped for lunch further up in the lock cut.
We were passed by a small outboard powered cruiser at Windsor Great Park. We saw him again as he had prepared Romney lock as it was during the keeper's lunchtime; we followed him in and Myra closed the lower gates and sluices.
We moored by the bridge and went into the town where we bought some food and had a free sample of fudge, it was lovely, but a bit pricey.
We will have another wander tomorrow, weather permitting.
2009 Totals – Locks 112; Miles 129; Bus pass uses 2.
We arrived at Shepperton lock before the lockkeeper and were able to check on the out of hours self operation arrangement. It was really simple to understand; a marked contast from BW's numerous differing schemes. No key required, a lot of the problems that we have experienced with BW schemes have been key related.
Leaving the lock, there was a Humber Keel in full sailing order tied up with two Dutch barges, it is good to see them in use; they are a lot of work to keep them in that condition.
More cheerful lockkeepers, with the well known and well documented exception close to the M25, I will not name him or his lock.
Passing Laleham, I always have a good look at the boatyard of Mike Dennett; some nice shaped boats ouside, with another out of the water on the ways. Not quite as many Dutch barges as last time approaching Staines.
We passed Runnymede as a Dragon boat being paddled for all the crew were worth coame towards us. Not a smile or grimace amongst them - miserable lot. We made our way to Old Windsor lock, we penned up and then stopped for lunch further up in the lock cut.
We were passed by a small outboard powered cruiser at Windsor Great Park. We saw him again as he had prepared Romney lock as it was during the keeper's lunchtime; we followed him in and Myra closed the lower gates and sluices.
We moored by the bridge and went into the town where we bought some food and had a free sample of fudge, it was lovely, but a bit pricey.
We will have another wander tomorrow, weather permitting.
2009 Totals – Locks 112; Miles 129; Bus pass uses 2.
Saturday, 25 April 2009
More boats moving today
The rain hammering gently on the cabin roof woke me today. It was forecast, thankfully, it had stopped by the time that we had finished our breakfast.
Being Saturday, one of Myra’s tasks was to buy a newspaper. This she did after we had locked up at Molesey lock, whilst I was filling the water tank. There was a lot of noise from two Canada geese just above the lock. Apparently, they are very keen to nest on the boat rollers next to the lock; the lockkeeper is doing his best to convince them that there are much safer places for them. At the moment, he is winning, only time will tell.
Having started out wearing a fleece, I soon put a jacket over the top. The breeze was quite chilly although the promised rain during the morning did not arrive.
We passed Port Hampton where MTBs and some MGBs were built during the war for the Admiralty; the boatshed and slip remain and look to be capable of use.
Through Sunbury lock and another friendly, cheerful lock keeper. On past the Environment Agency dock and wharf; there was a lot of interesting workboats and gear to grab your attention.
Next we could see some obvious novices in various rowing club boats; it was good to have a rowing coach approach us in his high speed launch and to warn us that being inexperienced, they might do something that we perhaps would not expect.
Good watercraft and courtesy on his part.
We passed under Walton Bridge which must be almost unique, being a Bailey bridge in constant use on a busy route. It became the standard military bridge in 1941; one of the requirements was that each component part had to be capable of being lifted by a six man party! We managed to get things right in those far off days.
Arriving at the Desborough cut, which was completed in 1935, we made the right turn into the original course of the Thames and moored on the island 24hr moorings.
The weather forecast promised heavy showers and strong winds, this mooring has excellent shelter.
We did a circular walk alongside the cut and back alongside the original course, stopping opposite Desborough sailing club to watch two Jack Holt designed sailing boats in the gusty conditions.
The Solo single hander was having an easier time with his 90 sq.ft. of sail area that the crew of the Enterprise with their 113sq.ft. That sail area was always interesting when it blew a bit. (For the non imperialists, the Solo is 8.36 sq. metres, Enterprise about 10.5 sq metres). They were both planing on the reaches and looking good.
Almost back at Martlet, we saw a pair of Egyptian geese with their 9 young.
The rain did not arrive, the wind was however, strong.
2009 Totals – Locks 106; Miles 115; Bus pass uses 2.
Being Saturday, one of Myra’s tasks was to buy a newspaper. This she did after we had locked up at Molesey lock, whilst I was filling the water tank. There was a lot of noise from two Canada geese just above the lock. Apparently, they are very keen to nest on the boat rollers next to the lock; the lockkeeper is doing his best to convince them that there are much safer places for them. At the moment, he is winning, only time will tell.
Having started out wearing a fleece, I soon put a jacket over the top. The breeze was quite chilly although the promised rain during the morning did not arrive.
We passed Port Hampton where MTBs and some MGBs were built during the war for the Admiralty; the boatshed and slip remain and look to be capable of use.
Through Sunbury lock and another friendly, cheerful lock keeper. On past the Environment Agency dock and wharf; there was a lot of interesting workboats and gear to grab your attention.
Next we could see some obvious novices in various rowing club boats; it was good to have a rowing coach approach us in his high speed launch and to warn us that being inexperienced, they might do something that we perhaps would not expect.
Good watercraft and courtesy on his part.
We passed under Walton Bridge which must be almost unique, being a Bailey bridge in constant use on a busy route. It became the standard military bridge in 1941; one of the requirements was that each component part had to be capable of being lifted by a six man party! We managed to get things right in those far off days.
Arriving at the Desborough cut, which was completed in 1935, we made the right turn into the original course of the Thames and moored on the island 24hr moorings.
The weather forecast promised heavy showers and strong winds, this mooring has excellent shelter.
We did a circular walk alongside the cut and back alongside the original course, stopping opposite Desborough sailing club to watch two Jack Holt designed sailing boats in the gusty conditions.
The Solo single hander was having an easier time with his 90 sq.ft. of sail area that the crew of the Enterprise with their 113sq.ft. That sail area was always interesting when it blew a bit. (For the non imperialists, the Solo is 8.36 sq. metres, Enterprise about 10.5 sq metres). They were both planing on the reaches and looking good.
Almost back at Martlet, we saw a pair of Egyptian geese with their 9 young.
The rain did not arrive, the wind was however, strong.
2009 Totals – Locks 106; Miles 115; Bus pass uses 2.
Friday, 24 April 2009
Sunshine
A visit to the Teddington chandlery was first on the agenda for today; a very nice walk in the sun across the footbridge. Finding nothing tempting inside, a slower walk back, looking at more boats and a visit to the Teddington lockkeper for an up to date river user's guide. We moved off with a freshening, following breeze which had a cool feel to it. Passing through Kingston, two ugly, all out of proportion houseboats were nearing completion; there will be plenty of room inside, and the residents will be spending more time looking out than at the outside.
We arrived at Hampton Court moorings, there were only two other boats moored up. I went to check the signs to confirm that the mooring was still free of charge: they were, so where was everyone? We had our answer later, as two narrowboats moored up as night was falling; one moored up at 10pm. The steerer must like carrots.
The forecast is for rain in the morning, we may have an early start to try and moor up before it begins.
2009 Totals - Locks 104; Miles 109.5; Buss pass uses 2
We arrived at Hampton Court moorings, there were only two other boats moored up. I went to check the signs to confirm that the mooring was still free of charge: they were, so where was everyone? We had our answer later, as two narrowboats moored up as night was falling; one moored up at 10pm. The steerer must like carrots.
The forecast is for rain in the morning, we may have an early start to try and moor up before it begins.
2009 Totals - Locks 104; Miles 109.5; Buss pass uses 2
The Thames!
One of the silent, heavier than air machines, caused me to wake up at 4.55am this morning. It was too early for tea; I dozed off again only to a suffer repeat performance at 5.25am. I wonder if the local supermarkets sell ear defenders?
Later, we looked out of the window to see a pair of Pochards swimming slightly faster than the persuing Canada goose, nature is wonderful.
After breakfast, I sorted out the gear for boating on the river. The anchor sits on the cabin slide shackled to 30 feet of chain, which is contained in a Tesco bag. The anchor warp is attached to the other end of the chain and runs snaked along the cabin roof and tied to the T stud. Lifejackets dusted off and the boarding ladder prepared.
We moved off down the gauging locks and moored up above Thames locks to wait for the incoming tide, which should allow us to leave about 12.45pm. We chatted to the lockie and the time just flew by. Soon, we were entering the lock and were let down to river level; the gates opened and we were off.
It was a bright sunny day with a breeze rippling the water, perfect conditions for a narrowboat. The views along this part are beautiful, Ham house set perfectly against the background of Richmond park; plenty of well designed shapley boats moored along here. At Isleworth, we saw Firemen, sorry, Firefighters familiarising themselves with their inflatable dinghy and small outboard.
The interesting floating hut near West Hammerton seemed larger than I had remembered, it was, however, still afloat. Evidence of the perils of a falling out with your boatbuilder perhaps.
Arriving at Teddington lock, the new, simpler traffic signals were in use. These are traffic lights, no amber, no flashing arrows, just a red and a green light. We were directed into the launch lock which had been prepared for our arrival.
We bought our 31 day visitor licence, marginally more expensive than two years ago, but a lot cheaper than a gold licence.
We moored above the lock and chatted to the girlfriend and the Australian owner of Maori, a lovely wooden boat that was built in North Wales and which he is in the process of restoring. He is under no illusions and is not afraid of amount of work required.
Later, we looked out of the window to see a pair of Pochards swimming slightly faster than the persuing Canada goose, nature is wonderful.
After breakfast, I sorted out the gear for boating on the river. The anchor sits on the cabin slide shackled to 30 feet of chain, which is contained in a Tesco bag. The anchor warp is attached to the other end of the chain and runs snaked along the cabin roof and tied to the T stud. Lifejackets dusted off and the boarding ladder prepared.
We moved off down the gauging locks and moored up above Thames locks to wait for the incoming tide, which should allow us to leave about 12.45pm. We chatted to the lockie and the time just flew by. Soon, we were entering the lock and were let down to river level; the gates opened and we were off.
It was a bright sunny day with a breeze rippling the water, perfect conditions for a narrowboat. The views along this part are beautiful, Ham house set perfectly against the background of Richmond park; plenty of well designed shapley boats moored along here. At Isleworth, we saw Firemen, sorry, Firefighters familiarising themselves with their inflatable dinghy and small outboard.
The interesting floating hut near West Hammerton seemed larger than I had remembered, it was, however, still afloat. Evidence of the perils of a falling out with your boatbuilder perhaps.
Arriving at Teddington lock, the new, simpler traffic signals were in use. These are traffic lights, no amber, no flashing arrows, just a red and a green light. We were directed into the launch lock which had been prepared for our arrival.
We bought our 31 day visitor licence, marginally more expensive than two years ago, but a lot cheaper than a gold licence.
We moored above the lock and chatted to the girlfriend and the Australian owner of Maori, a lovely wooden boat that was built in North Wales and which he is in the process of restoring. He is under no illusions and is not afraid of amount of work required.
Wednesday, 22 April 2009
The Aeroplane spotter's heaven
We like this weather; setting off at 8.20am, we shared Uxbridge lock with one of the Pirate Castle charity boats from Camden, it was returning to base from Watford, where a new engine had been fitted. He was stopping for diesel at Uxbridge marine, we stopped to have a look at their chandlery, I bought some snaplink carabiners for use with mooring chains and spent the rest of the time looking, but purchased nothing more.
Arriving above Cowley lock, we found that the lock café was open: two bacon sarnies (southern slang) all too soon had gone down very well indeed.
As we finished them, one of the commercial gravel barges arrived. We worked the lock with the boatman and had a good chat at the same time.
We saw a water vole near West Drayton; strange, BW now seems hell bent on preserving them. Only a few years ago, the lengthsmen were paid a bounty on any that they caught.
Perhaps the environmentalists don’t realise the damage and leakage that the voles can cause.
We stopped Bulls bridge as Myra was feeling sorry for Tesco; poor things only managed to make £2.95 billion profit, if we can help them we will. The fact that there is no other supermarket handy for the canal may however, be nearer the truth.
Whilst Myra was there, I was chatting to Roy from NB Gerald No.13; ‘The BCN boat’ as his friends call it.
He was a locomotive fireman based at Leicester in the 1960’s. Yes, Myra did come and drag me away, but not before we managed to exchange email addresses. We hope to meet up with him again later on the year.
Going down Hanwell flight, with the long brick wall of the former Hanwell Asylum for company, we passed the site of Asylum Dock. This was not used entirely as one might imagine, given its location. Coal was shipped inside by the entrance in the wall; some 25 tons were unloaded by hand each night. The asylum opened in 1831 and was closed in 1960. Fortunately, care of such unfortunate individuals has changed dramatically since those days. Today, institutionalisation remains with us, however the individuals are now free to come and go as they please, housed in the rather better surroundings of the Palace of Westminster.
Arriving at Brentford, we saw a difference since our last visit. A lovely new BW office, lovely facilities block (why don’t they speak English?) with toilets, showers and washing machines.
On the other side of the basin, there are a lot of high rise apartments and even higher up – the flight path to Heathrow lies immediately above.
We are here for one night only, the noise is almost unbearable, I think that the third runway should be built in Amsterdam or Frankfurt; perhaps they could move the second one there at the same time.
2009 Totals – Locks 101; Miles 99; Bus pass uses 2.
Arriving above Cowley lock, we found that the lock café was open: two bacon sarnies (southern slang) all too soon had gone down very well indeed.
As we finished them, one of the commercial gravel barges arrived. We worked the lock with the boatman and had a good chat at the same time.
We saw a water vole near West Drayton; strange, BW now seems hell bent on preserving them. Only a few years ago, the lengthsmen were paid a bounty on any that they caught.
Perhaps the environmentalists don’t realise the damage and leakage that the voles can cause.
We stopped Bulls bridge as Myra was feeling sorry for Tesco; poor things only managed to make £2.95 billion profit, if we can help them we will. The fact that there is no other supermarket handy for the canal may however, be nearer the truth.
Whilst Myra was there, I was chatting to Roy from NB Gerald No.13; ‘The BCN boat’ as his friends call it.
He was a locomotive fireman based at Leicester in the 1960’s. Yes, Myra did come and drag me away, but not before we managed to exchange email addresses. We hope to meet up with him again later on the year.
Going down Hanwell flight, with the long brick wall of the former Hanwell Asylum for company, we passed the site of Asylum Dock. This was not used entirely as one might imagine, given its location. Coal was shipped inside by the entrance in the wall; some 25 tons were unloaded by hand each night. The asylum opened in 1831 and was closed in 1960. Fortunately, care of such unfortunate individuals has changed dramatically since those days. Today, institutionalisation remains with us, however the individuals are now free to come and go as they please, housed in the rather better surroundings of the Palace of Westminster.
Arriving at Brentford, we saw a difference since our last visit. A lovely new BW office, lovely facilities block (why don’t they speak English?) with toilets, showers and washing machines.
On the other side of the basin, there are a lot of high rise apartments and even higher up – the flight path to Heathrow lies immediately above.
We are here for one night only, the noise is almost unbearable, I think that the third runway should be built in Amsterdam or Frankfurt; perhaps they could move the second one there at the same time.
2009 Totals – Locks 101; Miles 99; Bus pass uses 2.
Tuesday, 21 April 2009
The Sun has got his hat on
Bright sunshine was the order of the day; we left Batchworth at 7.35am beneath a cloudless sky. Moored boats from Batchworth all the way to Stockers lock, crawling by them enable us to exchange greetings and differing opinions on the weather for this summer. Everyone was smiling and friendly, perhaps there is some substance in this Seasonal Affective Disorder after all.
Below Stockers lock, there were permanently moored boats all the way to Springwell lock. We noticed that most had current licences; at last BW seem to have some effective enforcement officers in this area. We also did not see any strange fern like plants in the boat windows; these were much in evidence on our last journey along this part of canal.
We passed the time of day with various BW men, all of whom were very cheerful and helpful, opening and closing gates and some good natured mickey taking on both sides.
Above Widewater lock, we stopped for lunch, it was still sunny! We eventually moored above Denham deep lock, intending to spoil ourselves in the lock caf̩ Рit was shut!
A tug came by us, pushing one barge and towing another. We tried to speak to one of the boatmen, but he didn’t seem to understand. We then saw Peter Wakeham (coal boat Baron)at the lock; he said that a lot of them were Polish.
We moved down the lock and moored for the night below in yet more sunshine!
Wonderful, let us hope that this is the start of an amazing summer.
2009 Totals – Locks 89; Miles 87; Bus pass uses 2.
Below Stockers lock, there were permanently moored boats all the way to Springwell lock. We noticed that most had current licences; at last BW seem to have some effective enforcement officers in this area. We also did not see any strange fern like plants in the boat windows; these were much in evidence on our last journey along this part of canal.
We passed the time of day with various BW men, all of whom were very cheerful and helpful, opening and closing gates and some good natured mickey taking on both sides.
Above Widewater lock, we stopped for lunch, it was still sunny! We eventually moored above Denham deep lock, intending to spoil ourselves in the lock caf̩ Рit was shut!
A tug came by us, pushing one barge and towing another. We tried to speak to one of the boatmen, but he didn’t seem to understand. We then saw Peter Wakeham (coal boat Baron)at the lock; he said that a lot of them were Polish.
We moved down the lock and moored for the night below in yet more sunshine!
Wonderful, let us hope that this is the start of an amazing summer.
2009 Totals – Locks 89; Miles 87; Bus pass uses 2.
Monday, 20 April 2009
Animal magic
Today, we will have nature study - or so it appeared to be turning out. Having just moved off and slowed down for the first moored boats a hunderd yards away, a Jay flew across the canal and landed in a tree quite close to me. He looked my way and then jumped around on the branch to face me. I lost the subsequent staring contest.
Passing by the Grove mill, the conversion to living accomodation looked to have been well carried out.
Further down approaching the second Cassiobury Park lock, two Magpies flew across making a lot of noise, seemingly persued by a crow.
At the lock, the cottage has crennelations above the porch, no doubt barricaded against possible arguments from working boatmen.
Just above Cassio Bridge Lock, we saw a Muntjac deer some 20 feet away in the shrubs at the canal side; he looked at us, then resumed chewing whatever he or she was chewing. There were permanently moored boats very close, maybe Muntjac do not mind the noise of generators.
It was warming up nicely as the sun burned through the mist and the sky was really
blue, I have taken a picture in case that was this year's summer.
We soon arrived at Common Moor lock, it was a pleasure to see that most of the semi-derelict and unlicensed boats have gone from the offside below the lock. The few remaining, with one exception, were all displaying current licences.
Down to Batchworth Lock for rubbish and elsan disposal, and filling up with water.
On to Tesco moorings, for a small shopping trip, then reverse to the only mooring space opposite the island office block.
We are being collected by Chris Jaques, who together with Adrienne has invited us to have a bath, bring our washing and then have a Fish supper. A real boaters visit!
2009 Totals – Locks 84; Miles 81.5; Bus pass uses 2.
Passing by the Grove mill, the conversion to living accomodation looked to have been well carried out.
Further down approaching the second Cassiobury Park lock, two Magpies flew across making a lot of noise, seemingly persued by a crow.
At the lock, the cottage has crennelations above the porch, no doubt barricaded against possible arguments from working boatmen.
Just above Cassio Bridge Lock, we saw a Muntjac deer some 20 feet away in the shrubs at the canal side; he looked at us, then resumed chewing whatever he or she was chewing. There were permanently moored boats very close, maybe Muntjac do not mind the noise of generators.
It was warming up nicely as the sun burned through the mist and the sky was really
blue, I have taken a picture in case that was this year's summer.
We soon arrived at Common Moor lock, it was a pleasure to see that most of the semi-derelict and unlicensed boats have gone from the offside below the lock. The few remaining, with one exception, were all displaying current licences.
Down to Batchworth Lock for rubbish and elsan disposal, and filling up with water.
On to Tesco moorings, for a small shopping trip, then reverse to the only mooring space opposite the island office block.
We are being collected by Chris Jaques, who together with Adrienne has invited us to have a bath, bring our washing and then have a Fish supper. A real boaters visit!
2009 Totals – Locks 84; Miles 81.5; Bus pass uses 2.
Sunday, 19 April 2009
Where have all the boaters gone..............
Waking early nowadays usually produces an early start to boating; today was no exception as we moved away at 7.10am. On the approach to the first lock, tied to the last bollard on the lock landing was the boat that hit ours yesterday. At least his behaviour is consistently inconsiderate.
All of the locks except the last one were set against us, but it was a bright morning and watching the wildlife whilst waiting, is one of the pleasures of the canals. This morning, we saw a Mallard, with an egg in her mouth. I thought that it was pale blue with spots, Myra thought that is was grey. The egg was almost standard hen size, after passing us, she stopped and appeared to be eating it. (the duck, not Myra)
At the site of the Ovaltine factory, a new estate of flats, sorry, exclusive development of waterside apartments, has sprung up and is now occupied. Could the residents be referred to as The Ovaltineys? Ask your parents if that means nothing to you!
We passed a working pair tied above Home Park lock, but all was quiet, so we did not stop for diesel. Two new pairs of gates on Hunton Bridge lock, the top gates were leaking at the cill, but Myra found (unusually) that the newly fitted paddle gear worked easily on all of them. A boat approached just as we left, that made the job a bit easier.
We moored up just north of Grove Bridge in sunshine; out of the northerly wind, it was really warm. The view from our mooring is beautiful, only the noise from the M25 and link road intrudes, spoiling a perfect location.
We had just finished lunch, when we heard the sound of a working boat approaching.
It was Peter and Noah on Baron; they came alongside and transferred 42 litres of gdiesel into our tank. It was our first fill up since the Velcro chancellor messed around with the duty, the effect was we paid 55p per litre overall, not bad really.
Having been away from our moorings for nearly two weeks, I felt the need to alter something to do with the boat. I fitted a new 12v socket, cigarette style in the side support for the folding table. This will enable me to use the laptop power supply without a wandering lead, and swapping it with the table lamp.
Very few boats on the move, as has been the case since Easter Bank Holiday Monday.
2009 Totals – Locks 77; Miles 77.5; Bus pass uses 2.
All of the locks except the last one were set against us, but it was a bright morning and watching the wildlife whilst waiting, is one of the pleasures of the canals. This morning, we saw a Mallard, with an egg in her mouth. I thought that it was pale blue with spots, Myra thought that is was grey. The egg was almost standard hen size, after passing us, she stopped and appeared to be eating it. (the duck, not Myra)
At the site of the Ovaltine factory, a new estate of flats, sorry, exclusive development of waterside apartments, has sprung up and is now occupied. Could the residents be referred to as The Ovaltineys? Ask your parents if that means nothing to you!
We passed a working pair tied above Home Park lock, but all was quiet, so we did not stop for diesel. Two new pairs of gates on Hunton Bridge lock, the top gates were leaking at the cill, but Myra found (unusually) that the newly fitted paddle gear worked easily on all of them. A boat approached just as we left, that made the job a bit easier.
We moored up just north of Grove Bridge in sunshine; out of the northerly wind, it was really warm. The view from our mooring is beautiful, only the noise from the M25 and link road intrudes, spoiling a perfect location.
We had just finished lunch, when we heard the sound of a working boat approaching.
It was Peter and Noah on Baron; they came alongside and transferred 42 litres of gdiesel into our tank. It was our first fill up since the Velcro chancellor messed around with the duty, the effect was we paid 55p per litre overall, not bad really.
Having been away from our moorings for nearly two weeks, I felt the need to alter something to do with the boat. I fitted a new 12v socket, cigarette style in the side support for the folding table. This will enable me to use the laptop power supply without a wandering lead, and swapping it with the table lamp.
Very few boats on the move, as has been the case since Easter Bank Holiday Monday.
2009 Totals – Locks 77; Miles 77.5; Bus pass uses 2.
Saturday, 18 April 2009
A short day, but a dry one
Firstly, some public notices.
Happy Birthday to Jessica; and Happy Birthday to Colin of NB ‘Molly’.
The birds were still coughing as we moved off this morning at 7.20am, Myra walked on (shades of Barbara Woodhouse?) to set the first lock of the day at Winkwell.
Down the next one, then the electrically operated swing bridge. Another single hander was operating the bridge and waved me through, we went forward to set the lock at Middlesex and Herts Boatyard and wait for his boat.
Passing through Hemel Hempstead, the Kodak Tower (remember those 35mm slide films, prepaid, sent to Kodak, PO Box 22, Hemel Hempstead?) was in process of some large scale refurbishment.
No youngsters were playing cricket on the well tended ground next to Boxmoor lock, probably owing to the fact that today was Saturday and in the school holidays.
We shared the locks until the second one at Apsley; Myra was heading to Sainsburys whilst I replenished the water tank and then took Martlet down the lock to wait for her and the food supplies.
We tied up outside the BW owned Apsley Marina,to enable Myra to go to the laundrette. We had just moored, when Martlet was hit by a passing boat. Myra went up on the rear deck, the steerer just looked at her and said nothing. She formed the opinion that he was 'tired and emotional'; he eventually managed to reverse the boat into the marina whilst the lady from his boat worked the lift bridge.
I used my stage whisper to her, in the hearing of a few other people; telling her that when her boat hit ours, fortunately nothing was broken inside, so would she kindly inform the steerer, to put his mind at rest.
We moved through Bridge 154 and tied up a few hundred yards south.
2009 Totals – Locks 69; Miles 73.5; Bus pass uses 2.
Happy Birthday to Jessica; and Happy Birthday to Colin of NB ‘Molly’.
The birds were still coughing as we moved off this morning at 7.20am, Myra walked on (shades of Barbara Woodhouse?) to set the first lock of the day at Winkwell.
Down the next one, then the electrically operated swing bridge. Another single hander was operating the bridge and waved me through, we went forward to set the lock at Middlesex and Herts Boatyard and wait for his boat.
Passing through Hemel Hempstead, the Kodak Tower (remember those 35mm slide films, prepaid, sent to Kodak, PO Box 22, Hemel Hempstead?) was in process of some large scale refurbishment.
No youngsters were playing cricket on the well tended ground next to Boxmoor lock, probably owing to the fact that today was Saturday and in the school holidays.
We shared the locks until the second one at Apsley; Myra was heading to Sainsburys whilst I replenished the water tank and then took Martlet down the lock to wait for her and the food supplies.
We tied up outside the BW owned Apsley Marina,to enable Myra to go to the laundrette. We had just moored, when Martlet was hit by a passing boat. Myra went up on the rear deck, the steerer just looked at her and said nothing. She formed the opinion that he was 'tired and emotional'; he eventually managed to reverse the boat into the marina whilst the lady from his boat worked the lift bridge.
I used my stage whisper to her, in the hearing of a few other people; telling her that when her boat hit ours, fortunately nothing was broken inside, so would she kindly inform the steerer, to put his mind at rest.
We moved through Bridge 154 and tied up a few hundred yards south.
2009 Totals – Locks 69; Miles 73.5; Bus pass uses 2.
Friday, 17 April 2009
A traditional April day
A misty and damp start to our boating today. We moved down to Cowroast lock, one desirable residence for sale at the lock. This was the second empty canalside cottage that we had seen in the past two days; the large cottage at Bulbourne workshops was the first. We would not choose to live in either; a view is important to us. We have previously converted a pair of farm cottages from the Victorian era; we have had our fill of damp proofing and dry lining thank you very much!
We soon arrived at Northchurch top lock; I have stopped there many times, to have a drink and a break from driving. If the M25 or M1 was congested when I was making deliveries, I would use this route from the A5 to the M25 at Heathrow. It took me less than the four days that it will take us by canal!
At Berkhampstead bottom lock, a boat travelling our way was waiting in the lock with one gate open; he had seen us behind him and being a single hander, was more than glad of the company.
Passing through Berkhampstead, we had the pleasant job of waving to the many kids in push chairs who were showing their parents/grandparents how to feed the ducks. Some of them even waved back (the kids that was – all of the parents/grandparents waved).
Passing the site of the boatyard previously occupied by Bridgwater Boats; I exchanged a few words with a lady on the towpath. She told me that the development has had the planning application for flats refused; at present negotiations are going on with a view to buying the land from the developers, in order to preserve the site for boating use. A figure of £1,000,000 has been mentioned!
We shared locks until sewer lock; where we met an oncoming boat crewed by a pair of modern boaters. These are the ones that tie the boat up on the lock landing; then the two of them stand there and watch as you do the gates and paddles, making no attempt to come and chat or help.
Fortunately, we are usually tied up for the day by the time that these types seem to be moving.
We moved down to Bridge 146 above Winkwell top lock, tying up for the day.
2009 Totals – Locks 59, Miles 69; Bus pass uses 2.
We soon arrived at Northchurch top lock; I have stopped there many times, to have a drink and a break from driving. If the M25 or M1 was congested when I was making deliveries, I would use this route from the A5 to the M25 at Heathrow. It took me less than the four days that it will take us by canal!
At Berkhampstead bottom lock, a boat travelling our way was waiting in the lock with one gate open; he had seen us behind him and being a single hander, was more than glad of the company.
Passing through Berkhampstead, we had the pleasant job of waving to the many kids in push chairs who were showing their parents/grandparents how to feed the ducks. Some of them even waved back (the kids that was – all of the parents/grandparents waved).
Passing the site of the boatyard previously occupied by Bridgwater Boats; I exchanged a few words with a lady on the towpath. She told me that the development has had the planning application for flats refused; at present negotiations are going on with a view to buying the land from the developers, in order to preserve the site for boating use. A figure of £1,000,000 has been mentioned!
We shared locks until sewer lock; where we met an oncoming boat crewed by a pair of modern boaters. These are the ones that tie the boat up on the lock landing; then the two of them stand there and watch as you do the gates and paddles, making no attempt to come and chat or help.
Fortunately, we are usually tied up for the day by the time that these types seem to be moving.
We moved down to Bridge 146 above Winkwell top lock, tying up for the day.
2009 Totals – Locks 59, Miles 69; Bus pass uses 2.
Thursday, 16 April 2009
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