tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2706179785963285842024-02-06T20:17:10.586-08:00Narrowboat WinedownLiveaboard life on narrowboat WinedownWinedownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07810679250079175437noreply@blogger.comBlogger39125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-270617978596328584.post-23552434492290898412016-08-13T12:25:00.000-07:002016-08-13T12:26:05.443-07:00More about FamilyHaving overstayed in Granary Wharf in Leeds, our fresh water tank was getting low. It was time to move on. <br />
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We had had a brilliant time in Leeds and I think it is safe to say, we would love to return sometime. However, new adventures await so on Monday 25th July, along with Jan and Colin on nb Polako, we untied the mooring ropes, descended through River Lock and continued onto the River Aire, where the Aire & Calder Navigation meets the Leeds & Liverpool canal. Heading East, the river passes under several bridges and is overlooked by tall buildings right on the edge of the navigation as we leave Leeds behind.<br />
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The locks along this stretch of the river, although manually operated are electronic so for a while at least, I can put my windlass away and take out the watermate key. In addition, it was with relief that we say ciao to the shorter locks. In contrast, we felt rather overwhelmed in the large commercial locks.<br />
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We were heading for the mining village of Allerton Bywater which is just a mile from Castleford junction. We thought it would be easier to find mooring, and indeed we were right to do so as we subsequently discovered, all mooring at Castleford was taken. However that still gave us seven locks over nine miles to navigate.<br />
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The Nicholson Waterways Guide warned that it would not be easy to moor Allerton Bywater and I can honestly say that it wasn't! Fortunately the river flow was benign giving us enough time to attach mooring ropes to the rings embedded in the embankment wall. Due to the low water levels, I had to climb on the roof of Winedown and leap off with the centre line in order to hold the boat while Ian picked up a mooring ring.<br />
Once securely moored, we set off to find the riverside pub only to discover that they don't serve food on a Monday. After a sociable drink with Jan and Colin, Ian and I returned to the boat to cook a meal, while Colin and Jan went in search of a pub that was serving food.<br />
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Later in the evening, the setting sun bathed the surface of the tranquil river in a light blush. This, and the warbling of the river fowl was quite a juxtaposition to the bustle of the inner-city mooring we had recently left behind in Leeds centre.<br />
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Setting off at a reasonable hour on Tuesday 26th July, we continued to follow the River Aire downstream, turned at Castlefield junction, through the flood lock and on to Bulholme Lock. We would have no trouble with short locks on this stretch as the navigation from Castlefield to Goole was built to accommodate commercial traffic of up to 200ft in length. <br />
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The stretch of river between Castleford and Ferrybridge, known as the Five Mile Pond is surprisingly pretty as it meanders along and owes it's pleasant character to the recent landscaping of the now-abandoned mining works and successful tree planting. <br />
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It was an easy run and Winedown loved the deeper water, responding with smooth passage and soporific beat of the veteran engine all the way to Pollington. At times, Colin on nb Polako struggled to keep pace although we were running at a little more than tick-over.<br />
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Before long however, the industrial nature of the river returned as the massive cooling towers of Ferrybridge Power Station dominate the landscape.<br />
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After 15 miles and only three locks to work, we stopped for the day at the very pleasant mooring spot at Pollington Lock. We were now only eight miles from our destination at Goole Dock which we completed easily the following morning. Goole Dock is not the prettiest of locations, but it would be 'home' to us for a week, while we visited family.<br />
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Leaving Colin and Jan to keep an eye on Winedown, we packed an overnight bag and set off (courtesy of cousin Tony, who kindly collected us in his car) to spend the night with my uncle and aunt, Ivor and Shiela.<br />
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After a comfortable night sleep - on land, we had just finished breakfast when Tony called in for a cuppa. A short while later, we all piled into his car; Tony had a full day planed for us.<br />
First stop was the Lilly lakes at Burnby Hall Gardens, situated in the charming market town of Pocklington on the edge of the Yorkshire Wolds. Often referred to as 'a haven of beauty and tranquillity', Burnby Hall Gardens are a particular favourite of Ivor and Shiela.<br />
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After enjoying ice-creams and coffee, we wandered through the lush gardens and fed the over-fed fat koi carp fish in the lakes while enjoying the wide variety of lilies that had been planted. At lunch time, Tony whisked us off to Shiela's favourite garden centre that has a particularly good restaurant for a light lunch. After which, we returned to 'Highfields' (Ivor & Shiela's home) for afternoon tea. Later, after much hugging and kissing, we bid a now exhausted Ivor and Shiela goodbye, and Tony took us to meet his son Gavin and Grandson George.<br />
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The following day was Gavin's birthday and he wanted to keep that fact quiet from his local pub. Needless to say, Tony had arranged that we all meet at the same pub so we had to whisper our birthday greetings (in loud voices) to ensure that Gavin's secret was kept!<br />
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Before long, Tony's significant 'other half', Jo, joined us and the prosecco freely flowed followed by copious amounts of red wine - for Jo and I that was, the fellas all drank beer. <br />
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As the evening wore on and the food had been cleared away, Gavin suggested that we all adjourn to his home. Once again, Ian and I piled into Tony's car and were whisked away to 'I don't know where' - Gavin's home.<br />
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It was quite late by the time we were all ready to leave and return to the boat. What Ian and I hadn't realised was that the gates to the docks would be locked, and we couldn't get back to Winedown. Fortunately Jo runs the Normanby Guest House in Scunthorpe and she hastily made a room available for us so we had another comfortable night on land.<br />
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Tony had the following day (Friday 29th) off work and while we enjoyed a sumptuous breakfast at the guest house, he suggested that we take a drive to Lincoln to see the 'Poppy Wave' and who would we be to refuse such a wonderful invitation. Ian and I readily agreed.<br />
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Guessing that Jan and Colin would have worried that we hadn't returned, we gave then a quick phone call to put their minds at rest, before piling into the back of Tony's car once again.<br />
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The original ceramic poppy display was called 'Blood Swept Lands and Seas of Red' and displayed at the Tower of London in 2014. Each of the 888 246 poppies represents the fatality of a member of the British and Colonial Forces in World War 1.<br />
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Once the entire display had been dismantled, the 'Wave' from the Tower's south entrance and the 'Weeping Window' sections went on tour of UK, The tour will be conducted between 2014 and 2018 to commemorate the centenary of the 14-18 war. It was the 'Wave' section that was on display at Lincoln Castle. <br />
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The sweeping arch of red poppies over the wall of Lincoln castle was originally a dramatic key element to the entire display at the Tower of London and although it is just a small part of the original, it was nonetheless poignant and has attracted many visitors. I heard that the 'Wave' was to represent the soldiers 'going over the top' out of the trenches to attack enemy positions, but I haven't yet found any confirmation of that. However, with a little imagination, you can certainly see how that can be.<br />
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There is a rich history behind Lincoln castle dating back to 1068 and it is presently the home of one of the only four surviving copies of the Magna Carta dating back to 1215. We would need more time to explore this historical icon so we will definitely be back! Perhaps next year.<br />
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In the car once again, Tony took us to have tea with his parents, Ivor and Shiela. Tony had promised Ivor a trip to our boat, so we went to collect him to fulfil that promise. They were certainly surprised to hear that we hadn't been 'home' yet!<br />
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We hadn't realised that Goole Docks and the Yorkshire Waterways Museum in particular would be hosting the FolkSail Festival that weekend of 30th and 31st July. The highlight was the heritage boats that would be on display and in particular two fully rigged sailing barges; the Humber Keel 'Comrade' and the Humber Sloop 'Amy Howson' owned by the Humber Keel and Sloop Preservation Society.<br />
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A number of privately owned boats had also joined in the festivities. (I'm not sure when a boat becomes a ship - there are differing theories on this however some were certainly much larger than others)<br />
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On Sunday 31st July, a number of the privately owned vessels joined a helmsman competition in the Docks. Each skipper, with the help of only one crew member had to display his skills in a number of manoeuvres. Ian and I took up a position where we could clearly see and appreciate what was going on. Ian really enjoyed 'Playing with the Big Boys' and redoubled his efforts with regard to hunting for our next boat.<br />
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Before leaving Goole Docks, we decided to take a waterside Dock Tour that was offered by the Yorkshire Waterways Museum. I must say that it was very informative and we were taken past enormous commercial ships that were loading or off-loading.<br />
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In and amongst the commercial ships was this Tom Pudding Hoist.<br />
Tom Pudding was the name given to tub like boats used on the Aire & Calder Navigation. Up to 40 Tom Puddings were strung together in a train and they were used to carry coal from the colliery at Stanley Ferry to Goole Dock where each Tom Pudding was lifted in the hoist and tipped into waiting cargo ships. This method was successfully used for over 100 years until 1986 when road transport took over.<br />
The Yorkshire Waterways Museum hope to have this hoist operational again for demonstration purposes by next year!<br />
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Tuesday 2nd August was our last evening at Goole Dock and we couldn't have been treated to a more beautiful sunset.<br />
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On Wednesday 3rd August we continued on our way. There was a strong wind blowing as we manoeuvred onto the diesel point but we managed to tie up without incident. Once the fuel tank was full we headed into the wind along the very long and very straight Knottingley & Goole Canal - part of the Aire and Calder Navigation. For the next five miles the wind howled along the navigation whipping the surface into waves that sprayed us in the face. Surprisingly, after we turned onto the equally long and straight New Junction Canal, we were sheltered from the wind by the canal banks and enjoyed a more pleasant ride.<br />
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Just before reaching the intersection of the New Junction canal and the Stainforth & Keadby, the canal is carried over the River Don on an aqueduct that has strange guillotine gates at either end. Fortunately, both gates were raised. I can't say that I was too sad about that as I really wouldn't have known what to do had they been closed.<br />
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We moored near the New Inn pub in Stainforth and enjoyed a great 'Surf 'n Turf dinner. Cousin Tony was bringing Ivor and Shiela to spend the following day with us and we needed to be in a position that had easy car access for Ivor and Shiela, but I must admit that I would hesitate to moor there again on a Friday evening. The New Inn pub has a karaoke evening that continues into the early hours of the morning. Ok if you like that sort of thing! <br />
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With Ivor and Shiela on board, we set off from Stainforth heading towards Crowle Wharf, some nine miles down the canal. It was a perfect summer's day. There was a light breeze which complimented the warm sunshine and blue sky. Ivor thoroughly enjoyed his day but when Ian invited him to brush-up his skills on the helm, he was delighted. He smoothly steered Winedown along the canal as if he had never been away from the helm. Shiela, in the meantime was equally delighted just to sit and watch the passing scenery.<br />
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Later that evening, after Tony had arrived to collect his parents, we finished the perfect day with a light meal and drinks at the prestigious 7 Lakes Country Park.<br />
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It had been a wonderfully precious time with family. I haven't spent so much time with my cousin in many long years, and I can't say just how much I enjoyed the company of my Aunt and Uncle. To nostalgically quote David Jason...<br />
"Perfek!"<br />
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<br />Winedownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07810679250079175437noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-270617978596328584.post-82302253611487102692016-08-10T08:15:00.000-07:002016-08-10T08:16:26.077-07:00Come on Summer...With the weather feeling a little more like Autumn than summer, on Tuesday morning 12th July we set Brewery Swing Bridge, pulled up the mooring pins and bid farewell to Skipton, stopping at the services just to fill the water tank, empty the rubbish bin and dispose of the contents of the Elsan. From Skipton, the Leeds & Liverpool canal turned South East to follow the Airedale valley all the way to Leeds. The 17 mile lock-free pound was not without its interest as the many swing bridges make up for absence of the locks. <br />
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The Airedale is a flat, wide valley defined by tall steep hills while the open countryside afforded spectacular views.<br />
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Twelve swing bridges over eight miles was enough for the day (particularly as I had walked most of the way), so we found a lovely spot and moored for the night.<br />
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The brooding sky was testimony to the wisdom of this action. No sooner had we secured the boat then the heavens opened and the brief but definite deluge was successfully avoided.<br />
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The mooring spot was near Riddlesden, midway between Silsden and Keighley. We had just settled down for a quiet evening - Ian had even tuned in the TV so that we could catch up on a bit of news and weather forecast - when we discovered that nb 'Chance' was moored just around the corner from us. As it would be rude not to greet fellow boaters, Ian and I set off to greet Doug and James. <br />
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While walking along the towpath we overtook two dog-walkers who had a bottle of wine tucked under their arm. In this remote location, we surmised (correctly, as it happened) they could only be heading in the same direction that we were. And so it was that from quiet beginnings, we all enjoyed a convivial evening. <br />
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That is how it happens along the canals in England!<br />
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It was almost mid-day before we left our mooring spot near Riddlesden and after swinging a further eight bridges over a five mile stretch, we arrived at the Bingley Five-Rise just in time for the last passage of the day which was fortunate. <br />
The impressive Bingley Five-Rise staircase locks which mark the end of the level pound from Gargrave is followed shortly by the Three-Rise staircase, bringing the canal steeply down to Bingley. <br />
Although these sets of locks can be tricky, the lockkeepers keep a close eye on proceedings to ensure safe passage.<br />
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However our luck ran out shortly after we descended the Three-Rise as all the best mooring positions near the Fishermen's Inn had been taken and we were left with a shallow stretch of canal whereby we were forced to leave the stern of Winedown hanging out a considerable distance from the bank.<br />
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The following morning, we set off towards Dowley Gap locks, and on to Hirst lock. It was here that our friend Les had experienced a hair-raising incident so we worked the lock cautiously. Needless to say, we did not leave the lock unscathed! Winedown is 60ft in length and the Hirst Lock is 57ft so we had to put our boat across the lock to gain the extra length. That was not the problem though - we have done this many times before on other canals. However, at Hirst lock the lock gate leaked badly so as the lock emptied, the canal water above was being squeezed between the badly fitting gates, forming a waterfall at the stern of the boat. In order to open the lock gates, Ian had to back up tightly against the cill and in so doing, exposed the stern to the deluge of water. In the blink of an eye, the back cabin was swamped and the engine was sitting in water - for the second time this year. We had to moor up at the bottom of the lock to pump the bilge and mop up the mess created by the engine's spinning fly-wheel. <br />
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It was while we were doing this that Jan and Colin on nb Palako joined us. Fortunately for them, their boat is 57ft so they didn't suffer the same fate, however, they moored alongside to offer assistance and while Ian was head down in the engine-room, the ladies did what Englishmen (and women) do best... we made a cuppa. Once the bilge was clear again, we continued on our way with nb Polako following in our wake. <br />
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A mile from Hirst Lock, we came to the Victorian village of Saltaire, a 'World Heritage' site near Bradford in West Yorkshire. The village's name is derived from its Founder Sir Titus Salt and the River Aire. Sir Titus Salt built an enormous textile mill(called Salt Mill) on the River Aire that was opened in September 1853 but he didn't stop there. He is also responsible for the building of the village for his workers and their families; houses, bathhouses, an institute, hospital, alms-houses, and churches. However, for reasons of his own, he banned 'beer shops' in the village. <br />
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Needless to say there is now a 'public house'; a bar restaurant mischievously called 'Don't Tell Titus' that is at the heart of Saltaire.<br />
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Mooring in Saltaire is limited and overnight mooring is prohibited in the centre of the village - this is because part of the old mill alongside the canal have been converted to luxury, private apartments - so after exploring this extraordinary village, we moved on to look for a suitable location to call our own for the night. Just two miles along the canal (close to bridge 211A) we found a stunning location. With summer attempting to put in an appearance, we enjoyed Jan and Colin's company as we shared sundowner drinks and nibbles.<br />
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By the weekend (and without further incident), and still in the company of nb Polako, we arrived at Granary Wharf in the centre of Leeds, the end of the Leeds & Liverpool canal. It had taken us a little over three weeks to complete the 127 miles and 91 locks of this the longest single canal in England built by a single company!<br />
(NOTE to Boaters, Granary Wharf no longer have water and electric facilities for moored boats, so be sure you arrive with a full water tank and empty Elsan cassettes)<br />
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At Granary Wharf we again met Chris & Les on nb 'Eleventh Heaven' and Andy & Rich on nb 'Carpe Diem'. Had it only been a little over a week since they had all left us in Skipton? We seemed to have done so much and seen so much in that short space of time. However, if two is company, then eight is certainly a party!<br />
(from left to right.. Cherryl, Rich, Jan, Ian, Chris, Colin and Les - Andy was taking the photo)<br />
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But don't think that party time and alcohol was all that we enjoyed!<br />
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On Sunday 17th July, we took a bus to Temple Newsam Estates, a Tudor-Jacobean house with ground landscaped by Lancelot 'Capability' Brown. The nickname 'Capability' was attributed to him because he would often tell his clients that their property had 'capability for improvement'.<br />
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The estate has a fascinating if not scandalous history and many royal connections including that of Margaret, Countess of Lennox, niece to King Henry VIII; her son, Henry, Lord Darnley born in the house and later married to Mary, Queen of Scots; and some two centuries later, the house was owned by Isabella, Marchioness of Hertford who was mistress of the Prince of Wales (later to become King George IV). However the house and grounds (which include large woodlands) are now owned by Leeds City Council and open to the public with facilities including golf, horse-riding, football, cycling, etc.<br />
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The house has recently undergone substantial restoration with many of the beautiful, original features on display such as the numerous magnificent oil paintings dating back some five centuries; original, hand painted wallpaper over 200 years old; the private chapel that was later converted into the 'Lady's drawing room' (pictured here)...<br />
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... and this magnificent silver wine cooler, that must certainly be Ian's favourite piece.<br />
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After spending hours in the house, we still had time to enjoy refreshments before we sauntered around the farm. But at the end of the day, there was still so much that we hadn't seen. Oh well, another time perhaps?<br />
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By mid-week, the two boats namely 'Carpe Diem' and 'Eleventh Heaven' set off for York. But we still had so much more to do and see, so once again we parted company, leaving 'Winedown' and 'Polako' on the mooring at Granary Wharf.<br />
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After we had helped the two boats through River lock and watched as they rounded the corner of the river, we took the water taxi to the Royal Armouries museum at Leeds Dock.<br />
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The water taxi service runs between the popular Granary Wharf and the 'not-so' popular area of Leeds Dock. In an attempt to encourage people to visit the restored and modernised old dock, the taxi runs every 10 minutes and better still it is a free public service.<br />
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The Royal Armouries museum, as its name may suggest is home of the national collection of arms and armour. <br />
There was something for everyone here. Children can play dress-up in medieval costume and watch hand to hand combat in the Tudor Ttiltyard, while adults can try their hand at the crossbow firing range. <br />
Spectacular displays of Tudor armour was displayed on one floor while weaponry of a more modern kind was displayed on another. There was simply too much to take in at one visit.<br />
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The warrior treasure was also on display. Part of the Staffordshire Hoard, this dazzling display of gold and silver ornaments studded with magnificent blood-red garnets, revealing breath-taking workmanship and sophisticated design, indicate how an Anglo-Saxon sword was much more than just a weapon. <br />
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Discovered in a field near Litchfield in Staffordshire in 2009, the hoard is the largest collection of Anglo-Saxon gold and silver ever found. Ian and I were fortunate enough to have first seen part of the collection on display in Stoke-On-Trent, when we passed through last year, so it was of particular interest to us.<br />
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Leeds had so much to offer and I can honestly say that we barely scratched the surface, however, besides the sights, museums, shopping arcades, pubs and restaurants, there was also precious family time. <br />
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We met Ian's cousin Chris and his wife Pat for dinner ...<br />
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... and spent a day with his cousin Gill. Introducing her to the water taxies that run along the River Aire as well as the Royal Armouries museum, before heading off for a Sunday Roast dinner (or 'Tea' as they say in Yorkshire)!<br />
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Ian and I took the train to the beautiful, historical town of Knaresborough situated in North Yorkshire on the River Nidd. Knaresborough has a fascinating and varied history with roots going back as far as the Doomsday Book where it was first mentioned in 1086. Today, Knaresborough is synonymous with its much ruined castle.<br />
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The castle fortress was originally build by a Norman Baron circa 1100 on the cliff above the River Nidd and documentary evidence indicates that considerable work was also undertaken by Henry I, after the Norman conquest.<br />
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In 1170, Hugh de Moreville and his followers took refuge at the fortress after assassinating Thomas Becket. <br />
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For the next five hundred years this strategic fortress passed through many royal hands (each adding their own stamp to the buildings) until it was besieged and taken by Parliamentary troops in 1644 during the Civil War. It was then largely destroyed in 1648 after an order of Parliament was issued to destroy all Royalist Castles.<br />
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It was thirsty work exploring the ruined castle and the town clinging to the steep hillside around the River Nidd, so once again we boarded a train, this time heading in the direction of Harrogate - the home of Betty's Café Tea Rooms.<br />
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The Betty's story started in the fashionable Spar town of Harrogate in 1919 and has played a part ever since, becoming legendary over the years. The combination of mouth-watering Swiss confectionary and Yorkshire hospitality has proved irresistible and Betty's today remains as popular as ever. That being said, it would certainly be rude not to sample the delights of afternoon tea at Betty's. Besides, I had starved myself all day just so that I could do it justice. And just in case you are wondering, all that food was for both of us... not just for me!<br />
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However, after all that tea , sandwiches, scones and cake, we had to walk off the excess so we spent time in the spa museum (No, we did not partake of the 'waters' since the odour was enough to upset even the strongest stomach) before venturing out to appreciate the architecture of the many old buildings that make up the town.<br />
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Before very long, we found ourselves outside the former Winter Gardens building, part of the Royal Baths complex. This magnificent old building has now been converted into a JD Weatherspoons bar and restaurant. We couldn't resist going in to see how they had modernised the fantastic old building and while we were there we enjoyed a glass of wine (Ian had a beer) while we relaxed and absorbed the ambiance. It would have been rude not to!<br />
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While still moored in Leeds, we had another stately home to visit. This time it was Harewood House, still the home of the Dowager Countess of Harewood. The estates have a nationally recognised conservation programme with particular emphasis on the restoration of historical buildings.<br />
When Edwin Lascelles (1st Baron Harewood) started building Harewood House in 1759, he employed only the finest craftsmen of the time and this was more than evident as we wandered from room to room each steeped in history. We gazed at exquisite Chippendale furniture, marvelled at impressive Renaissance masterpieces, gawped at exquisite family portraits painted by famous artists of the time, and enjoyed the delights of the interior design.<br />
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The grounds were laid out in 1753 by Lancelot 'Capability' Brown, recognised in his time as one of the most important landscape architect in Georgian England. Although we sauntered around the grounds for the best part of the day, we only managed to explore a small part of them. (I took so many pictures of the breath-taking views that it was difficult to know which ones to post.) <br />
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Sadly, for Ian, Leeds will no longer be the same without the Tetley Brewery. At one point in his working life, he worked within spitting distance of the brewery and fondly recalls watching the dray horses pulling the cask laden wagons. <br />
This English regional brewery was founded by Joshua Tetley in 1822 in Hunslet, now a suburb of Leeds. The beer was originally brewed at the Leeds Brewery and become one of the leading industries in West Yorkshire. Tetley's Bitter lived up to its name and far from the soft and creamy taste expected of 'Southern English' beer drinkers, it was refreshingly bitter.<br />
Over the years and with numerous mergers, the brewery became the worlds largest producer of 'Cask Ale' during the 1980s and in 1998, Tetley's was taken over by the Carlsburg Group.<br />
Nevertheless, in 2011 Carlesburg UK closed the Leeds brewery and moved production to Banks's in Wolverhampton, demolishing the brewery building in 2012. It has been said that Yorkshiremen were so incensed by this move that they stopped drinking Tetley's and it's lofty position among revered Bitters in England has slipped into almost oblivion. Well believe it or not as you may, it certainly makes a good story! <br />
Statistics however show that Tetley's is the 11th highest selling beer in the United Kingdom.
To add to Ian's chagrin, the site of the old brewery is now a centre for contemporary art. <br />
<br />Winedownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07810679250079175437noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-270617978596328584.post-22963275993835438252016-07-15T09:50:00.000-07:002016-07-15T09:51:23.698-07:00Summer Start in 2016<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Having spent the winter in Reedley Marina we were itching to get going again. Wind, rain, sleet and snow had slowed our maintenance schedule so it wasn't until mid-May before we finally said goodbye to all our new found friends and headed for the 'open' canal.<br />
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It was wonderful to be free again with little to concern ourselves with except the general direction in which we were going. We hadn't put together a full travel plan for this year so we found ourselves quite flexible. We were heading for the IWA festival at Eldonian Village (near Liverpool) to celebrate the bi-centenary of the Leeds & Liverpool canal, but that wasn't until the second week of June.<br />
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The first day out of the marina we encountered Canada geese with their goslings, mute swans with their cygnets, and in the surrounding fields, sheep with their lambs.I just love this time of the year!<br />
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The first night away from the marina saw us in a rural location with Pendle Hill in the background. An heavy brooding sky provided the perfect backdrop to a fantastically bright rainbow. Does this bode well for a good summer or not, we shall see.<br />
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We had the Wigan flight of 21 locks to look forward to and remembering how difficult the flight is, I posted on the 'Wigan Flight Crew' Facebook page and asked if there was any other boat going in our direction who would like to share the locks - and workload. Jo and Ron Toon responded and we enjoyed their company on the way down. Although it rained for most of the time, it took us 4 hours which wasn't bad timing, however it was not all plain sailing. As I was preparing the locks in front of us and returning to each lock to open the gates for the two boats, Jo was closing the gates behind the boats, emptying the lock to lower the boats, and closing the gates behind the departing boats. All was well for the first few locks albeit that the lock gates leaked badly giving rise to spectacular waterfalls as the boats were lowered. On one such occasion, Ian couldn't avoid an waterfall cascade that swamped our back cabin and engine room. The engine was sitting in water but was bravely beating on, however the air cooling fan, it's bottom just below the waterline, sprayed the filthy canal water all over the engine room and even into the bathroom next door. The mess it created was to take hours to clean up and the carpets ultimately had to be replaced!<br />
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At the bottom of the Wigan flight, we turned away from the direction of Liverpool. We had time to spare so we ventured onto the Bridgewater canal where we were to meet our friends Les and Chris on their boat 'Eleventh Heaven'.<br />
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The weather improved dramatically and we saw the back of the rain for more than two weeks while the rest of the country seem to receive numermerous storms and heavy rain.<br />
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Turning towards Liverpool once again, this time in tandem with NB 'Eleventh Heaven' we still had time to spare so it was unanamously decided to explore the Rufford Arm of the Leeds & Liverpool canal. It was along this stretch of the canal that I first encountered the 'Tufted Duck' This pretty little white duck has a fluffy white tuft on its head giving it the appearance of a white mop-cap like bonnet. In addition, there has obviously been some inter-breeding going on as some of the mallard ducks were sporting the strange tuft too.<br />
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Returning to the main Leeds & Liverpool canal, we continued on our way towards the Eldonian Village and ultimately into Liverpool's Salthouse Dock where we moored for a week. It was about this time of blissfully warm sunshime and great company that Ian and I introduced Les and Chris to Kahlua Dom Pedros (a concoction of ice cream, cream and Kahlua liqueur). Needless to say, we had to curb our enjoyment because we didn't have room for loads of ice-cream in the freezer and anyway, and at 600+ calories per glass I am not sure that our waistline would have recovered had we persisted!<br />
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While in Salthouse Dock, our friends Andy and Rich on narrowboat 'Carpe Diem' caught up with us and four became six as we enjoyed the taverns and restaurants in the dock vicinity.<br />
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It was here that our luck changed with regard to the weather. A few days into our Liverpool visit, the rain caught up with us and as yet (apart from a few hours of sunshine here and there) it hasn't really let up. However this didn't deter us from enjoying the sights and sounds of Liverpool once again.<br />
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Leaving Liverpool once more with Eleventh Heaven, we followed the contours of the Leeds & Liverpool canal into Wigan and again, up the Wigan Flight of locks - this time, without incident. At this juncture I must emphasise <b>BOATERS BEWARE</b> - a small group of vandals are operating in the Wigan area and in the early evening these youngsters reconnoitre the boats moored along the canal with the intention of returning in the early hours of the morning to steal what is not tied firmly down. Although we escaped the vandalism, a boat moored near to us was the object of the attack on the night of 22nd June. <br />
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Ian had been told by many boaters that Fredrick's Ice-cream Parlour was not to be missed, so once we had left the Wigan flight of 21 locks behind, the next scheduled stop was Fredrick's! It took us a few days to get there but the wait was well worth it. Navigating through heavy rain and even thunder and lightening, Ian was determined not to miss this delight, so we moored up and trundled (much bedraggled) into the ice-cream parlour, trailing pools of rainwater behind us! Any Ice-cream lover on the Leeds & Liverpool canal who misses Fredrick's (near bridge 73)will be very sorry indeed. <br />
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By the time we reached the summit pound of the canal we were getting a little tired of all of the rain. We moored at the top of Barrowford Locks and spent a day doing odd jobs while the rain drummed on the roof of the boat all day. It was on this dredful day that Andy and Rich on NB 'Carpe Diem' caught us up once again. They, however braved the rain and navigated the Foulridge tunnel before mooring for the night. With a break in the rain, they found the Social Club in Foulridge and were rewarded for their diligence with cheap beer and good but inexpensive wine. <br />
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The following day, Leslie and I went off to explore the Pendle Heritage Centre while Ian and Chris individually carried our a few more maintenance jobs on the respective boats.<br />
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I had been to the heritage centre before but Les hadn't. Even so it was great to delve into the history of the Pendle Triangle and in particular follow the notorious story of the Pendle Witch Trials of 1612. Since the 17th century, the trials and subsequent hanging of the Pendle Witches have fascinated people and consistently caught the public imagination for the 400 years even though there were far larger witch-hunts in Scotland and the southern counties of England.<br />
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The site of the heritage centre is a group of attractive Grade II listed buildings and walled garden. This ancient farmhouse known as Park Hill has been carefully restored and provides an insight of how this historic house has developed since the 1400s. The Bannister family settled in Park Hill in 1400s and it is this family who are the ancestors to Roger Bannister the English former middle distance athlete who ran the first sub-four-minute mile.<br />
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With a slight improvement in the weather, we left the Barrowford Locks behind us, navigated the Foulridge tunnel (1640 yards long and taking a good 15 minuted to get through). This brought us close to the Yorkshire/Lancashire boarder and in no time at all we were into North Yorkshire and traveling north. This part of the country is where Ian spent most of his life and I am constantly reminded that Yorkshire is 'Gods own country'. Certainly I can see why with the glorious views over moors and downs.<br />
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We met nb Carpe Diem at East Marton and so two boats became three as we traveled on together towards Gargrave, a large village situated on the very edge of the North Yorkshire Dales. Popular with boaters, walkers and cyclists alike, (due to its situation on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park as well as alongside the Leeds & Liverpool canal) we had to sample the Fish and Chips that we had heard about. It was a night not to be forgotten. Their Fish and Chips have earned the fine reputation but the hospitality far outweighed even that acolade.<br />
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we are constantly looking for a small break in the relentlessly wet weather but unfortunately, with wave after wave of bad weather heading across the seas in the direction of our fair Island, we won't be packing away the wet weather gear anytime soon. However, we all pulled up the mooring pins early on Sunday morning (3rd July) and continued on to Skipton where the sheep festival was in full swing. Les and I walked the four (plus) miles to Skipton operating the three locks and five swing bridges for the three boats along the way, enjoying some sunshine for a change. <br />
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we were lucky to find three mooring places close together in busy Skipton and after securing the boat we all set off to explore the town. Over the following few days, the guys sampled the wares from pie shop after pie shop and pub after pub, but we I have to say that we also explored the cultural and historic aspects of Skipton.<br />
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Skipton Castle, dominating the top of the high street with its massive twin towers, is one of the most complete and best preserved medieval castles in Britian. It's gatehouse is over 900 years old. <br />
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After wandering around the castle, we had to slake our thirst at a local pub and it could be none other than 'The Castle Inn' advertising Theakstons Old Paculier Ale, however,to the utter horror of some in our party, the ale had been withdrawn and there wasn't a drop to be found in the whole of the country.<br />
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The historic Settle-Carlisle Railway, built in 1870's crosses the world-famous Ribblehead Viaduct and since this is now part of a main rail link that runs through Skipton, we decided to take a trip. The scenary was spectacular and the trip was certainly worthwhile.<br />
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Inside the pub (...yes, there had to be one near the Ribblehead Viaduct) above the sign for the 'Gentleman's cloakroom' was a lable indicating 'A Loo with a view' I sent Ian into the loo armed with a camera so that we too (Les and I) could see what the sign was all about. The loo did indeed have a view, and what a spectacular view it was. <br />
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All too soon, it was time to bid our traveling companions a hearty farewell. Andy and Rich on nb 'Carpe Diem' as well as Les and Chris on nb 'Eleventh Heaven' have a different agenda and timeframe to the one we have so we had a lovely dinner together on our last evening. <br />
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Friday morning (8th July) after they had taken on fresh water, we helped the two boats through the swing bridge before setting off to explore Bolton Abbey on the beautiful estate of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire. <br />
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At the heart of the Bolton Abbey estate are the ruins of an Augustinian Priory in its beautiful riverside setting. The prosperous priory fell prey to the greed of Henry VIII in 1539 when the dissolution of the monasteries stripped the Priory of its assets, however Prior Moone managed to negotiate with Cromwell and the Prior Nave was secured as a place of worship for the local community, and is still used to this day. <br />
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Ian and I spent a peaceful afternoon wandering the footpaths alongside an attractive stretch of the River Wharfe and crossed the stepping stones, an ancient right of way for the lay workers of the 12th century Priory. We ended with a lovely tea overlooking the river. <br />
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On Saturday, the weather wasn't looking good as we set off to visit the spectacular Malham Cove. Ian had hired a car so we were able to drive over the Yorkshire Dales. we couldnt allow the rain to defeat us and as it set in, we modified our plans and drove on towards the village of Hawes and the home of Wendsleydale Cheese - the favorite of the cartoon characters 'Wallace and Gromit'. Here we managed to take a tour of the Creamary that ended in a cheese making demonstration, followed by cheese tasting (who needs supper?). My sister's partner is a supplier of Wensleydale Creamary so we thought that we should at least see what happens to all that milk he so lovingly collects from his 'Ladies'. <br />
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By early afternoon, there was a welcome break in the incessant rain and since we were not far from the hamlet of Hardraw, at the foot of the Buttertubs Pass, we drove onto Hardraw Force, England's largest single-drop waterfall, set within the grounds of the historic Green Dragon Inn. After visiting the falls and walking around them, Ian was only allowed a half pint of Ale at the Inn as he was now in charge of a motor car, which made a change from walking or boating! <br />
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By Sunday there was even a little blue sky and since we still had the car at our disposal, we set off for Malham cove once again. This time we were able to appreciate the full specticle. This gently curving, 70 metre high amphitheatre shaped cliff, and its surrounding limestone formations have been drawing visitors form far and wide. The large curved feature was formed by a waterfall carrying meltwater from glaciers at the end of the last Ice Age more than 12,000 years ago, while the top of the cove is a large area of deeply erroded limestone pavement. For those Harry Potter fans, scenes from the 'Deathly Hallows were filmed around this amazing Malham Cove. <br />
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To end the weekend, Ian and I made the most of the sunshine and walked along the Pennine Way - not all of it, but enough to appreciate the magnificent Yorkshire Dales. I can certainly see why a Yorkshireman calls this 'Gods Own Country'.<br />
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After returning the car to Enterprise car hire on the Monday, we had our mundane tasks to complete such as food shopping and laundry before we bade Skipton a fond farewell and headed in the direction of Leeds.<br />
<br />Winedownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07810679250079175437noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-270617978596328584.post-54319837491885082532015-10-28T09:52:00.000-07:002015-10-28T09:52:48.858-07:00It’s not the leaving of Liverpool…An early morning start is not always a bad thing. We had to be at Mann Island Lock in Canning Dock for 8 o’clock on the morning Wednesday 16th September, and it was a beautiful morning.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG53383C3-DieqrGszX4Y8j8sjODL_77ndAbCpNtzqE22M_gyiLsGF03apRUC8vuCklzYTFXE10TR7oBfT4nspIasaRARPVL9SNV5HR0dgZUausZWbyrOB_mPiltB4AxnHJgqW6Y5CT-Zg/s1600-h/IMG_29773.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="IMG_2977" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXdK4kFA6d8jMp6buNnl05hoQ1P8CBFga4DRX63qPrqLonx4mcSz6Y_lz9vdLbp3IaRXGt-0Z0oiwHql9fHMh31Dq1tDZXSfqgm-U30KhQf3tHmOqrxw1CIs97m-YyQTNu8NoCg81lUsfR/?imgmax=800" height="184" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_2977" width="244" /></a><br />
There was hardly a ripple on the water as we eased off the pontoon, swung the bow around and pointed it in the direction of the exit bridge that led from Salthouse Dock into Albert Dock and beyond. In the early morning sunshine the old warehouses were beautifully reflected. <br />
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It was the end of another adventure but the start of a new one.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfDZJrO3tBYpO-0XzZ6K00Bylz0-bPDr_l6mvFnjRB1T6sARmqqXLvo6Rli-tx0A2HajAeDvt5dgJJyIcsHhfAkm-tqk5HiyBdnV_wJs2AloMlMVLEnydAOTsVSW5QS_-0kAndyi1plH3F/s1600-h/IMG_29923.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="IMG_2992" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCR7WYrS3vatRBwIyThfl4qJPqaskDvvwl2GZzO2qgaQ3Viof0wUSEutlUN6W9tmy-S14mTsIU0sLM5ssGjhgL0dSxq87gvjfcrCbIBT5QsiDONMqG2Tl9JwK2zucWX5e0NkBOYh-nDJWz/?imgmax=800" height="184" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_2992" width="244" /></a><br />
Mann Island Lock was opened for us by Mike from CRT, who greeted us with a broad smile and a friendly chat. Sometimes these guys just don’t get the recognition that they deserve. Thanks Mike, we appreciate your help!<br />
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Tunnels alternate with open cuttings as the canal link took us past the Pier Head, a significant aspect of this world heritage site that includes the majestic Three Graces (locally known as Hope, Faith and Charity) the Port of Liverpool Building – with the monument statue of King Edward VII, the Cunard Building and the Royal Liver Building that makes Liverpool’s waterfront one of the most recognised skylines in the world. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglqK3lP2XeDGRbAEyxQLn6Z1Gd11JGKC_Pu23f1IFNeow2DOTyd8GjQi3Wi_fK8CYoMtXvLss02KSPowfRaTqOoCPVl7fLqOapGzifKKkPY3CeOF8DakREqRE0pdC14O3a_0puhZfUP-j7/s1600-h/IMG_29973.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="IMG_2997" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqZzAd6XPhVRaieZqlZUftmqGisiPx9FobM1BWAZqdD41lqm0IvlJOAGCGH1GXwpKZ9G6PxTjlAehjorjj6Clo4Rjw3IlQx4WUuzXpFKRXcW1ge_TNw4higmQ0GawE5c56lqS9BsXjT99F/?imgmax=800" height="184" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_2997" width="244" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeB0k3l_AMgYgzvNUVHSP5CKMflE0eNBjxv95fc8bDPR2CzxmKfxuBJKwcznBrCcpXjPVv40ZBY3QZNtkjEQ1xAIONAcGO4B973UFPvX9pLqja1gbBUQQYlGteO1n71evtV5mkxuzI13fU/s1600-h/IMG_30023.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="IMG_3002" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHMP-Pq7G5cedZIKfP6zOOWkx8cgqErzIC9F3Rsp3FbEyR2IOClU1E4EnoOhVbcsMNcb7MIYAULGmk2MSN9vBNFjvBSRgYqiEtQuvGXc9OKCk9D8HhtP3TxrUX4nYe2SAhsl4AGfyUIjWw/?imgmax=800" height="184" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_3002" width="244" /></a></div>
A second new lock lifted us into Princes Dock before we continued on through West Waterloo dock to the central docks channel now named Sid’s Ditch (much to the annoyance of more senior members of CRT) so named as Sid was the first to navigate the newly opened stretch of canal.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1dvrn0L9eqe6vvoFr4jErN_IUW_0_no0GDokMOvw_RyF1940wBQheu8CV4ymTVFdu24fGunVj4onnof3ymZM2mlG2uFPGbCwDxVc5VHOAL-jsVGsP5TyKj06_Yr-E13GfW-Ef1RsQakOf/s1600-h/IMG_30053.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="IMG_3005" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGpWAPRsD4CvDEM8Rtf5szZzFVZgs8wPpCNCJf17uh8qeG88no7j1S6GIb__6xoR7v233SIeyjlBx6NmwVk8gNUL13EQweyJDCkSm5Pe9D-sW6PydcNFwcCRtBKhQVkTJjJG0vg3NzkYO6/?imgmax=800" height="184" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_3005" width="244" /></a><br />
As we turned into Stanley Dock the impressive Tobacco Warehouse loomed over us. Built in 1900, it was the world’s largest brick warehouse and although still empty, this impressive building has been earmarked for renovation and conversion into apartments. Climbing through four locks –still assisted by CRT –we reached the Leeds & Liverpool main line at Eldonian Village Basin which marked the end of one of the newest canal links and the beginning of one of the oldest. <br />
The rest of the day was uneventful as we worked our way along the unattractive industrial area towards Litherland. Although some factories still have their backs turned to the canal, this area is slowly changing as considerable effort is made to improve access to the canal. Once only used by intrepid navigators, the canal around Bootle had a bad reputation for vandalism, but now with the help of community pride, CCTV cameras and an obvious police presence, security is much improved. It was here that we met Mike and Kelly, two police officers who stopped to help Ian lug his cases of beer from the supermarket onto the boat. If only I had my camera at the time, what a picture that would have made.<br />
There were several boats moored outside Tesco at Litherland and since the weather was so nice we gathered together and lit a BBQ fire. Probably one of the last of the season but it was great that we could make the most this social opportunity – Sharon and Richard from nb Oakapple, Chris from nb Mary Bet and Colin from nb Aston all contributed to the evening. We did invite Mike and Kelly to join us but sadly they were still on duty. However, Kelly did pop in later to bid us farewell and a safe onward journey.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQEsFVPUoBxnztkzjbZHz0CGMGACKz4vikKwcMeV23xSjnjCQRI46XlviEOOTZrk4piqrRehXs6XjbHgHW01UmNtH-IwBF1E-BDbDtdQx962GZrO9FogtVnvqGUNfXwbjmCQADvfyGR4OD/s1600-h/IMG_30263.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="IMG_3026" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghS8NTli2OV2fOyiJs9NkxWmuHS1xM3JHPzfKS-F9gzi4AtdpjvvKyuqav5PzlHGS8s3FfDpmBMvayFKMDRhsu6iiFgpSgxYPslpzryXyk2RAOKf81HToKpR2ehtadUJmB6jG8rkQKCwyQ/?imgmax=800" height="184" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_3026" width="244" /></a>At mid-day on Friday 18th September a flotilla of boats left Litherland with us and we made our way to the first of the restricted operational swing bridges. Bridge 6 and 9 can only be opened by CRT personnel at set times of the day, if you are not at the bridge at the right time you cannot continue. Nevertheless, we all arrived, the bridges were opened and with a cheery wave to CRT we all went on our way, winding around the bottom of Aintree Racecourse. We stopped just before Maghull and Chris on nb Mary Bet moored just behind us. The camaraderie of the previous evenings continued, but by this time many of the other boats in the flotilla had continued on their way.We had only a relatively few miles to go over the next 6 weeks so we would be taking things very leisurely.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgStglHhkYcC4vZDgWYneHU1Zt3STTYDw1KqUisHMwp5JFyQYnmdOBNxRsITNccydxi2pH9gTgpWua_yawq9uDvUOJQvfykCfqFTw7lb4I808bnpUhKnAYzpPW1AKuJ3rL__sBfBx9fvP8h/s1600-h/IMG_30153.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="IMG_3015" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgxPXx_XtqHCh0TL51Px-JSEqvOWd3-FWoIVpWtE80ZjQGCWTtpqFl1NAkMgAWTZe1SBZTF_LuW0njas-R800j61dseSUqcaqbc5J5sRq9Iuim0mNpYchYUXFn2x3Th3rNsMxuMEiLn4ik/?imgmax=800" height="184" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_3015" width="244" /></a>By Saturday afternoon, we had left the urban sprawl behind but had progressed only as far as the farmland between Haskayne and Halsall before we found a lovely rural setting and hammered in the mooring pins. No sooner had we settled down to enjoy the sunshine when the peace was shattered by the roar of jet engines as the nine ‘Red Arrows’ swooped overhead en-route to the Southport air show only a couple of miles from our mooring spot. We were close enough to enjoy a fine display of precision air acrobatics but a little too far for good pictures. Later in the evening we sat on the bank side and watched the sun go down, splashing golden scarlet and finally, indigo hues across the sky. Perfect!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9d4wbIqDdcMxWEheI3Voqo4rvNwCdPklnmfTjt8yPY-NaGBeWF1iMSjSO4AdpWwwjO7YVAlKjEiLHsOwhP-lbF8fNb9ZY2i0X0t-Z3FnDUXUn2_KlgjV4PlpZOaoAfvI2KdgimfB07Jyo/s1600-h/IMG_30343.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="IMG_3034" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4ILVt9VXEqFjP86QO6zSzt0zinJfugO8Cpm7WtfeK2dNpl_ba2-Y4HLN334SBy2bQChrfxfZHI7LK0rgp10NepEUIDDB8IVIx3q1apc58fBGfxWkwwjHb2uUMim-Ivv-0HJySEQe1t9UX/?imgmax=800" height="184" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_3034" width="244" /></a><br />
Sunday morning treated us to a beautiful sunrise as the scarlet rays of the awakening sun threw the relief of the trees into a midnight black contrast…<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-aWWPR7sGaSPzurBBeCANylnoHiMDyP3HMXwURbHz87FpBSBb32nll5Eb0BLCvMDnjtpeyjrFHJpJqtmcfHWHO8sY-Md7eDGdPeqJSWdla-vjbT8S1-9TD-WmV6LKB4K5JSWsBh6Vow1N/s1600-h/IMG_30273.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="IMG_3027" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipldPItN0cUKmdXS-DXwPHNDN8cI5daPDEt4awouuBdyXT_3tJ939B1OHiII6UXhm9QR6-cwzXViLuw22uOt9qVvnlwz4Ra2bZZ2INfiXv-uotA7GezKHLezqa4DYmHmjWkq_MLHPHEmAA/?imgmax=800" height="184" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_3027" width="244" /></a>…while the mist was drawn tendril by gossamer tendril over the mirror-like surface of the canal. It was too beautiful to leave so we stayed another day – or two.<br />
We hadn’t been entirely idle. As with any home, there are always maintenance jobs to do and Ian busied himself with replacing the glass front to the multi-fuel stove and giving the chimney a long-overdue sweep while I cooked roast duck with all the trimmings for lunch.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi92Je6u2G5HzkS_XfWoTfcW4DHVzTeEu2cSAdLjULKRG-R5D6A7F5DzevE2Hu9fD3hNQ9352XuWeDU5ewOOVOv8h4PS8MW-JlaFlymx28p4ctOpFn1ph80Vz95oD3mmp7UFz9EbMdrgLTv/s1600-h/IMG_30233.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="IMG_3023" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHJfMfPHnSZegx_OxDMXoB6KwjBVXrhki-L3L_h8dA8Mzfgk5udPS8nNo27qIQu_nyH1YQ52iVgnp1t-yjtuuhBHBhdWyZBURhB5kNkAH_o0SNBB1sBZo6WQfTDRu4JdgB0uiIXQtURlVR/?imgmax=800" height="184" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_3023" width="244" /></a><br />
It was while we were moored near Haskyne that Ian was finally initiated as a seasoned boatman! While adjusting the mooring lines he slipped on the dew-drenched grass and toppled into the canal. Not only a leg (as was his previous lament) but right up to the armpits. My initial reaction was one of concern swiftly followed by a gurgle of laughter which I managed to stifle before being faced with the dilemma of running for the camera or helping him out. I helped him out, then scurried off to get him a towel. I certainly wasn’t letting him drip that canal water all over the inside of the boat! Would you?<br />
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I was starting to get itchy feet and our fresh water tank was running low – I had, after all, had an extra load of washing to put through the washing machine after Ian’s dunking. We pulled up the mooring pins and headed off through a flurry of swing bridges to Burscough, just four lock-free miles away, to replenish supplies. <br />
Leaving Burscough behind several days later, we followed the beautiful Douglas valley to Parbold. Ian had heard that there was a great Indian take-away in Parbold so we had to stop so that he could appraise it accurately! <br />
The 27 mile long pound stretching back to Liverpool came to an end at Appley locks followed shortly by Dean Lock near Appley Bridge. The outskirts of Wigan then came into view, with another 3 locks to work before we stopped opposite the CRT offices.<br />
The locks had been few and far between since leaving Liverpool but as we turned away from the Leigh branch leading to the Bridgewater canal and Manchester, we had the notorious Wigan flight of 21 locks to look forward to.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg60-elfGUuYTGT1Ley_YNcwiWBd09LKdY8JGcbJmCK8FXqe8mYTxmSovTGoxLwuUPrlDaBDL5j9ibRSoYTrdHKSnywEhe_L4ftqPBuCSyqGTnwEOJf_12R0fM4FlIUJswh-dMZr6Wh99Dc/s1600-h/IMG_30493.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="IMG_3049" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDrnqkQaf6HzsPGCs3N_aZRRxYxRm9Dw7zhOfAIo9XXY2RpSeljJG_Mp3utK7DRmaws_usPtO3-p6RsUaiHbyNXyHdQSCF-D7WtVnKcBgFahDX1HUTJanLDn-hzBmmKInfqeNR9b14cGJa/?imgmax=800" height="184" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_3049" width="244" /></a><br />
At the bottom of the Wigan flight we were joined by a hire boat so at least we had some help up the flight. in addition, CRT volunteers were assisting a pair of boats ahead of us and they were emptying the locks for us which made life a lot easier. We made good time and as we reached the half way mark we were joined by Gareth who is a member of the Wigan Flight Crew and he added his windlass to the back-breaking task of winding locks. By lunchtime we had reached the summit. Good going.<br />
While working the locks, Peter, a local CRT Volunteer regaled us with tales and pointed out interesting landmarks…<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl1rJEXG6P_eO6nrF8PZIX1fMI60PqLB8YJOSZnB65g_3HFBw6MjC3j_3HUzBjnWk34vFfzaE5MEtOsfmoeTBikwh_PzyLwI6kFERa-NjNJtwkD6OAbv6ftwX2MPnoYAgW6VaUivDLJuHT/s1600-h/IMG_30563.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="IMG_3056" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz0NUaoyeGcr2rzT6JEyKJn-mtIIIR1fxtEkthG3N7I8CRF2acAO-nvJ2LvD38wDGpIZmdQV5nNIj5fSekaO4Kda9aqhv2wFGVqUsWEQMpJxOfKtgXu963Jn_2NKyPSxBs_yyhH-POCm5r/?imgmax=800" height="184" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_3056" width="244" /></a><br />
Naturally reclaimed (disused) slagheaps from the time of the steel working industry, now popular places of beauty with amazing views… <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFrpOcP0c_xDmebVCnMLhFuxLsM0jh-hzBECUtCSzSEAatQYwnuhwmrTwzK2RoAEb3feSspa1NKPm1ixUMKllQeXR67qhXs7kM2uZ-4rKRNd2AeuI7JwRugmsL7uP22mgKywgJjjYT3cdV/s1600-h/IMG_30503.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="IMG_3050" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJdwLoTP_Uz-hTDr-dn5mB0-rxt2SQrpmkDEI6d2Uj_WflmJf6yAlt9VcXmreBTAS08GxHcSdjpQOkvc8Z-aChf4OkRiOxUQpyAiVL-5GWf0Qk_qCxK_waoDzX9ufP5SZItn3bwfrIHC4v/?imgmax=800" height="184" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_3050" width="244" /></a><br />
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… this tower that looks like a relic of past industry but is actually a modern construction, purpose built to hide a mobile phone mast.<br />
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Tuesday is definitely the best day of the week to traverse the flight as this appears to be the day CRT volunteers are on duty. You will be amazed at how much you may learn!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd9UjGykpXNyfjgA_MT2PrhAPTeoejF5Z8hTG9fidD7cW8o5zwHHiuax2BfvU4jvpVbFi33bd0djD_9-RVzBkqENpt676XnSOKEXEatmRv1MM5ElZVv4t2h2RQo2ajZWfcjPOcCDlXBIGQ/s1600-h/IMG_30613.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="IMG_3061" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrvHO4aq83_Ajf8iEFwAt0HD_cm2QLXfAjbLMD3zoNmfKTWBTzNOg8O_huN4w8w3G_tW36V33aNdmplhLZ2N1ItRFDvB-ytckhyrQ4HqbITtqWqqav8bokFVVC2j67A2oIo_Qg-o7QE5gB/?imgmax=800" height="184" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_3061" width="244" /></a><br />
Only a few miles from the top of the flight we found a glorious spot opposite Haige Hall Country Park and golf course. With magnificent views over the top of Wigan in the distance and on down into the Douglas valley, we couldn’t help but be aware of the great height we had climbed through those 21 locks. It was a shame not to stay a while… so we did…<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_ipMq0Fya0rMhQeiYvmeqKHA_8oYBrUvkTrhzXPFzfSqkD1C_OZ62LZZzpeDQw2Btg0EVZQevzAmMiUqdgrIR6P0uSFPbo9RjTn27Z4TkHdkjWwXLeI5dpnKNmf07qGsRHN4n9kab476n/s1600-h/IMG_30653.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="IMG_3065" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLzPdIXrUamb2q_vTabmv1Wb4w5IA0JKZBpPajWPHVthreEdP8Mb3x5apehQS9eMh1cB4TusD1TyuZxhWAOhyphenhyphenFg9PV8CwjV0aJdkT5YTZk1oz4NYVh96gAf1vJ2p7vPQ3MAXyYG-aJwxtz/?imgmax=800" height="184" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_3065" width="244" /></a><br />
… and enjoyed the lovely late summer weather and glorious sunsets.<br />
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The canal took us on a nine mile lock-free pound (locally known as the Lancaster Pool) that wound its way along the side of the valley. The bleak hills to the east of us gave a sense of the Pennines that we were to cross – but not just yet!<br />
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Side-stepping Adlington to the west, followed by Chorley to the east, the canal passed a picturesque stretch that included Botany Bay, a refurbished textile mill that is now a canal-side themed shopping centre that sprawls over 5 floors. With a sun-drenched afternoon ahead of us, we moored outside Botany Bay and lazily explored the area before moving on to the bottom of the Johnsons’s Hill Locks, where we found mooring for the night. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwpiB_uyHnmV9GRJnj7OcyYJLqOo78w3QgeToEkyowqLZ92EhfHQEj5HY-iXfBRdHiDAbGNW-t9J_6wFXmaK9icuXlX4U1k-ItmC6bT4ekzkCf50F-QRFtorL4GI-o8GKR6a4D_fWxVVUp/s1600-h/IMG_30893.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="IMG_3089" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd9FI8AX9ejUt0Rzk1bG0rqXEI-MKZ1gESSEzTdOK1L_Jt7MNrwgIAeJFDymsz-JeeGGFNuhzDgy50XAoF-3z2ciIHO2FIIi_6asZ9HvoCOlikGjDjcenn0i4mksdze4Dnpe3105MoA9aO/?imgmax=800" height="184" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_3089" width="244" /></a><br />
The beginning of October dawned; a beautifully tranquil day, just perfect for working the 7 Johnson’s Hill locks.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicflB1k4xtd60FI0RZCEvMXExFit3ypIWlC7XTV1yDgexRmcPo37SJfQDBKRFXJR1JgfcKbIuRqbN2XVT3EoKk-UH3_OR-Nc9TqVYcBMsbky-vMx7Z5-WhJLGKPJIOTNAtAnZsKcEc-5T9/s1600-h/IMG_30953.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="IMG_3095" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOoFMmktvCETUSwfr_RwlYF3SAoDFsmHvXRduKqdMD7z1TelhulliOFilmp9EvdwXWKG-d6oHDZhyYSKFQ1VoZjgV3pzgpPnxOYzUmlW8hQEHD5CqKVXxU2GLaWGjeimCQwtYFY9j9DYdy/?imgmax=800" height="184" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_3095" width="244" /></a>As we locked up towards Higher Wheelton, we had time to enjoy the excellent views that the steep countryside yielded.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh93wq41NfjEUcd8I2cK7SCszpuMcIVKiaPbgbmcF_ZHLOwUUfbJ48s-N-5Fek0ecWYA1okeJD5yb6BruAHXV0ZbHV5lNMOUJyvbovpVEaL-ICxBcOVIgPOoS_hrMr1FRml65U9nQH8cwMo/s1600-h/IMG_31093.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="IMG_3109" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK3IXIT-EknClDEUsYRRAp1hjH5BiBTDM_sWrJRB8jrbN0GlTUnWHHdOSmC3MGW87s85EyLRKnlw8ERGi-14-Hz7tYDhYW_Dk5_GTqSV0PBF5HvDM_YszQA39Ob8J0pLCREF8y377S1gGt/?imgmax=800" height="184" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_3109" width="244" /></a><br />
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A few miles past the locks, we moored near Riley Green. Ian’s daughter Jo brought the children to visit us for an overnight and we spent quality time together, we then stayed for a few extra days . <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIcz7IDH0ammVKf4qpYoPIQwOH3lq1DQiqtsJjKpXlPzfi-6fXxYFXf3pW1OC4I9t11cJ4vJPyJXwfPtKqJt1liAaJyKG2XVSgqd8Snh9ceaQWElQ3YdkDm5y7YzxdamkhD02EUfOrQd_t/s1600-h/IMG_31113.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="IMG_3111" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8AafmchSvQ3fJKiuqKmjyBV9xDClCug92jePP4kzf7EVHaVJSKYWRV19Es01eusJrbw0w5yKaCJNiyX2WfLeo_vmVMEqsda7n-xG3ztB98e_iFM1vSSENFm3pvM-KR-wn_iXWCmW62aME/?imgmax=800" height="184" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_3111" width="244" /></a><br />
The children were excited to be staying on Grandad’s boat and enjoyed some late blackberry picking even more. Poor Mum, Jo, had the unenviable task of getting the purple blackberry stains out of the children’s clothing – glad it was her and not me!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje0i6BXF_FuNFhgxHNTgAR-ZAWZuAT4K3EOQ6sRdokk36Di7Eammi5tN0tE6wHIdakDaX6GAqWQAl7Fb1qKoy_CcJhmTWsS2cP0XqYEi8KpOsyJ0Jvlp36NgLuqKmAcrSo_GiBlf8f7J3T/s1600-h/IMG_31263.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="IMG_3126" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZbs3d0uo88IuuKlcbHQMGRL5VbcRVqH8leAq6muSXjtJ03EAjpMHq7tbA42-u-8BphMmUQ_6nWfV2HXD8NtjYcwao3n07Fryp10TekR1lmcuQ-ROnOFqTqKl9FtYlVtiZPebKTNNmVdNE/?imgmax=800" height="184" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_3126" width="244" /></a><br />
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As the navigation continued to wind it’s way eastwards along the Calder valley, the M6 motorway was never far away and we crossed it several times. However, the constant drone of the traffic was mercifully absorbed by the soft countryside. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMS5fv7hf0YdksGORF_0D-saFnO48nMQ_p9FhrHBLT0W8pS3TMWb8x_fhTobQNV-V-abDsbAEe_y_cCCnKV6pblf3XhNV_pTnEvygXHTJxkLwF23wbq6FQJTZocxma_jvEyNC_daRfPflp/s1600-h/IMG_31613.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="IMG_3161" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRnsiKXFoKXb1kkiayozxWuhL5yB5cldtG3-OeHA4JTzKAcnR49lZvBkytFDw6-5_Y0-N7fQZ64QswhAIZgOr6brzMnJc8b_O9ekbDIbSIljzwecgtjJE_ihZNYy4Eq2drqKV2Jrs8D9lr/?imgmax=800" height="184" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_3161" width="244" /></a><br />
By the beginning of the second week in October we had reached the open countryside before Hapton. High ground rises on either side of the valley and we could see the summit of the Pendle Hill which reaches a height of 1831ft above sea level. Since we had time on our hands, we found a beautiful spot and stayed put for a few days. Ian busied himself with some painting and maintenance in-between wonderful walks in the countryside. The scenery was exquisite, and the tranquillity was only slightly marred by the distant drone of the motorway, hidden from sight. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv1j649jsDka1ccRMRl8pXeHMM9qaeDCVGKT2shldGpn2qNZPfm_2XWRYi3mSWHy2rUhlPwPUq4NZsxOKeNauAVPx1sPPBGC6I4Skyy5WYIl6RZYGxFjZXjAb1bNAmNbmovhjWslY8N4cQ/s1600-h/IMG_31723.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="IMG_3172" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP0NTQSMfyUHUNeQ8tvdErhJfD6Tv7pIHQB6K-5eJTDQPNN0ZlqLn0XP8aQiggOHLScS8MMSwvTAwgjcuNshKWlJJoxJkixp7HQ4zj4UJ8ZSfmDWY9ug9hOckC8DDN7uGiUhYuUVsY0fB9/?imgmax=800" height="184" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_3172" width="244" /></a><br />
The dying summer was giving way to Autumn and the warm summer days were being cut short, however, we were treated to some spectacular sun-rises and sun-sets while we loitered near Hapton. Ian was having to light the fire more frequently to keep the boat cosy. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBR_bKDQGVSf-xKEinf1flNA59uKEHtsPAptMGsZReSDHQ2Mk0VAGuFVW1IiTI23oD0mwND3DdFc4A7WLy4OAC0BOxCrnctiX06VE0Y_uxRHECjzwby5nyUbTG2HPq5YiKyTeVOZQMB_ag/s1600-h/IMG_31203.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="IMG_3120" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEherrvhKkq55Zi13twkIaqNQ6970VlXx4it9MR-QP10BGjf4dH6jW7lfiUxuGM5QeOxgIyD2W6dzfc7mUHk3i5uNdjbpz6ZaxBE0j0XGMRzpoeeo7sH35UVegsQxDk053LCarr2vDl3MSN6/?imgmax=800" height="184" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_3120" width="244" /></a><br />
After investigating an oil leak on the generator, Ian had found a problem that needed spare parts and some aluminium welding to fix. With excellent internet connectivity available he was able to order the parts and have them sent to the marina in Reedly. in addition, with the help of FaceBook we eventually made contact with a craftsman who could weld aluminium AND bring his equipment to the boat.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgwofWySBXdOeYb-HD5CZFhRjJFfYvj1_3UjLbs4E4-Z8DtlCDliini7H-1EicX_o2DAMGVxYDEMJaxmTY0I2z7fwBpJCKxZY29NVOC5XwO7IX_jR2ng36jg7nRzFrTcyxfELwIIuaY6zk/s1600-h/_DSC02573.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="_DSC0257" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWSszcNZmgHyd8zcBHJR2VhVVz_GxLCA2_1Quv0KiyhkE_r4LJh6__3Xw0VO1Qoz7mNX3imXLTXfg4kjYuOZN6juBBzhh7YMukkIBskWjU7SwTDlwAJUYvxRMJj364MpwhDM91iM7F_kbT/?imgmax=800" height="164" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="_DSC0257" width="244" /></a><br />
By mid-October, we had reached the summit of the Leeds & Liverpool canal, but we had to wait a few days for the generator spare parts to be delivered and for Terry (Fred to his friends) to get his welding paraphernalia to the boat. We spent a lovely few days at the top of Barrowford locks near the picturesque Barrowford reservoir before venturing through the Foulridge tunnel - just short of a mile long and on to Barnoldswick. It was here that we met up with Terry and in no time at all, our trusty generator was back online.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6F21N8nAg1ZyJU85-7WyylRKleIRf4K8VPCo71gEspTfdk0wLR9k7mX9VN5DxLwva-f_8VW_10C2nd9YqrZljIAV_3XBmp-nuoeOXcaPIVbYUfIaDPuKmrulUnnpBCES00G0IZPl9O0Up/s1600-h/IMG_32103.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="IMG_3210" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy5aSdfep7Mt5MQcJtWo9rnoKOKj2Af7l9UzcHSlDYRs8GiOTPip_wEgphu6pGs3Y-5gS9nbakuzYy38QGen76gS7G13-iPVJXRnRltH5n8tQJcxcA7aA-7EIFKsMR5fQPuSHMm13ysZXN/?imgmax=800" height="184" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_3210" width="244" /></a><br />
We returned through the Foulridge tunnel to Barrowford where we spend the next few days before taking up our berth at Reedly Marina where the boat will stay for the winter while we fly off to Hong Kong and New Zealand for a few months.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyPG0mXsEshLWqiRreS0wSc7SJunWzP6W1vBZzQwKVkdL-QPTdcno5rilNWXYMYAyY_ZcQn419ZmO5Inj59GTsoZ3XY48llqfk6RGrqgGSS0us52s2Gt_bycXqPU9LPemiy2tdf4GclaTM/s1600-h/IMG_32373.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="IMG_3237" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHfcuHwaabvmH-0FRpnovt_0SPC0zPsDgGmh_bDU_H3jj32W5VIO8Jl5VMrl82KXfTA1t338jQ4J0Xnbh_t0eZgB7A0vcvhLAP0KXa47s6DkkA7KjPBiMZgLqseLuCjefHAZj9mp6_i55v/?imgmax=800" height="184" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_3237" width="244" /></a><br />
This brings to a close our Winedown Adventure for another year. Here are a few stats of our year… at an average speed of 2.2 MPH, we have journeyed a modest 482 miles (262 of which were on narrow canals, 211 miles on broad canals and 9 miles on rivers); worked 456 locks; been through 28 tunnels (one of which was the notorious Standedge Tunnel – 3.25 miles long - through the heart of the Pennine countryside); crossed 199 aqueducts and operated 70 movable bridges. We have met up with old friends and made many new friends in this, our hugely successful third year of living on a narrowboat and exploring the English Canal system. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv1RUjy9KnAJYZrQjVc-1S-dt8ek4CARLRsFLUKmVLpkup01DCz9M0RXwqF7BJk82kDIhbVReHcrxljhjGHoEY9Swdubqo75Ea22a_aa9dudHqzZvQ7CocTvTuwYVQ8boiOm_JqpzGzPOF/s1600-h/IMG_32403.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="IMG_3240" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVGOukg1XFxUPBBTduBR4FrR2A_7ea1n022pxcMmnlS9dm6RzKj6hB72Z9bHhnDV_YPI5RSwqssnCmfbZVEBwpmSgR_WYdyXeGtW84k9EFhXEDp5b43RM8ZLrZarZHgD42Au5UJnyslmmS/?imgmax=800" height="184" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_3240" width="244" /></a><br />
The Canada geese are getting ready to leave – well some of them anyway. By this time, (end of October) many of our boating friends have been similarly closing up their boats and setting off for warmer climates. The sky is quite dark by dinner time now and the sheep in the fields are huddling together for warmth. Above the heather-speckled moors where we will leave Winedown for the winter, the rooks tumble on the wind with raucous cries or quarrel in the denuded branches of the trees.<br />
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It is time to turn our attention to bonfire night and shortly after, gather in the holly and ivy and think of friends and family and Christmas festivities!<br />
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Happy holidays to you all, our friends, safe travels (whether it be via luxury ocean liner, aircraft, train ferry or car – or a combination) and with luck and good health, we shall see you again in 2016<br />
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Winedownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07810679250079175437noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-270617978596328584.post-85989920167551867312015-09-17T11:56:00.001-07:002015-09-17T11:56:51.943-07:00LiverpoolAs one door closes another one opens - or should I say, 'when one adventure draws to a close, another is waiting right around the corner'. This is certainly true on board nb 'Winedown'<br />
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After leaving our friends at Castlefield in Manchester, we set our sights on Liverpool, but first we had to stop at the CRT office in Wigan to book our passage into Salthouse Docks and our berth. Previously, one was able to stay in Salthouse Docs for 14 days but the CRT authorities decided to curb this and we could only get 7 days. We were naturally a bit put out by this, but 'rules is rules'.<br />
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Before Wigan, we stopped at Pennington Flash near Plank Lane, on the Leeds & Liverpool Canal. It was a beautiful, if somewhat isolated point to stop, but near enough to a housing estate for there to be a constant stream of people enjoying the late summer evening, dog walkers and cyclists. I was just settling down to read a book when we heard a crash followed by a plaintive, childish wail. A little boy, out with his father and brother had fallen off his bike and grazed his knees, right next to the boat. Ian grabbed a packet of plasters while I got some wet-wipes and a small packet of sweets. In no time at all the boy was patched up and the sweets put a broad smile on his face. With a mouth full of the sweets he waved goodbye and wobbled off down the path with a grateful father close behind.
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The following lunchtime (Wednesday 2nd September), as we tied up outside the CRT office, nb 'Indigo Dream' was preparing to leave. After completing the necessary paperwork in the office and filling our fresh water tank, we followed Richard and Sue on nb 'Indigo Dream' who had kindly waited for us so that we could share the locks. This proved to be the start of a whole new adventure and we had no idea just how fortunate we were. Richard and Sue were going into Liverpool too, but their passage was booked for two days before us. As ever, we had time to slow down. We shared locks and swing bridges with Indigo Dream' for the rest of the afternoon before bidding them adieu in Appley Bridge.
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Thursday morning and we were looking forward to a leisurely day. We stopped off in Burscough Bridge to pick up some provisions and treated ourselves to tea and cake at a local tearoom before setting off again towards Scarisbrick where we moored for the night. Our passage into Liverpool was booked for Sunday 5th September and we only had 20 miles to go so the next few days was really 'laid-back' boating.<br />
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At the appointed place and time (above Stanley Locks) we met a team of CRT personnel. They were there to assist us down the locks, through a series of old working docks and tunnels and into Salthouse Dock, adjacent to Albert Dock, the vibrant heart of Liverpool's historic waterfront.
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The next couple of hours was full of chatter, laughter and a history lesson, and by mid-afternoon we were safely berthed - as it happened, just a few slots away from nb 'Indigo Dream'.
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Albert Dock - Liverpool</td></tr>
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Albert Dock is an amazing place to visit and even more special since we had arrived in this unusual way. With the country's largest group of historical grade II listed buildings, we knew we would find more museums, galleries and a wider variety of venues to eat that we could possible visit in a little over a week. Attractions to suit every taste and shop-till-you-drop opportunities in abundance - wait a minute, I sound like a walking advertisement and Liverpool certainly doesn't need me to tell people what they can do here! We eagerly anticipated an experience packed with sights, sounds and adventure. We were not disappointed.
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We were fascinated by the history and the architectural splendour of lofty colonnades that made up the old warehouses surrounding the dock, and even by the jelly fish that seemed to collect in their thousands in some places. Introduced to discourage people swimming in the docks, the jelly fish thrived.
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Doug, Sue and Richard with Ian and Cherryl</td></tr>
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On Monday morning, we went off for a spot of retail therapy. We were returning to the docks just after lunch when we were surprised to bump into James and Doug from nb 'Chance'. They had their hands full with the greyhounds that live with Richard and Sue on 'Indigo Dream'. Talk about a small world!<br />
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Doug and James were in Liverpool to meet Richard and Sue ahead of an epic adventure across the Mersey, along the Manchester Ship canal and onto the River Weaver. <br />
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By the end of the afternoon, (and after a cheeky nudge from Doug) we were invited to join the four of them - and the greyhounds - on their adventure. Wow, how lucky we were! <br />
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We had to be up early to catch the high tide out of Liverpool's Brunswick Dock. Unfortunately there was a light fog as we left the berth in Salthouse dock and it continued to roll in as we made our way through Wapping Dock, Queens Dock, Coburg Dock. and into Brunswick Dock.<br />
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'Into the lock and tie up to the port side pontoon', was the instruction from the lock keeper, and skipper Richard duly obeyed.
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Richard and Sue on nb 'Indigo Dream' had secured the services of a maritime pilot as even on a good day this is essential - the river Mersey is used by many commercial shipping lines so only qualified personnel may take a vessel on the river. Stuart was certainly going to 'earn his keep' as we made our way across the Mersey with visibility at only 50 yards.
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After Stuart had delivered a safety talk and we had all donned our 'life preservers' we were ready to leave. <br />
Over the radio we heard the warning that the fog was getting thicker. 'No other movement on the river...' warned the disconnected voice on the radio. 'That means there is nothing to bump into...' was Stuart's reply, and then we were off.
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As we left the security of the lock and the land marks faded into the fog, Stuart asked the question of Richard, 'Do you know how to keep your vessel in a straight line? You look over your shoulder and check that the propeller trace is straight.' he answered his own question. Since that too was fading quickly into the fog this should be interesting, I thought.
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Sadly, the fog stubbornly refused to lift and all we could see besides the marker buoys were ghostly sights emerging from the gloom as we continued on our way. We didn't get a chance to see where we were going let alone get some great pictures on the crossing that took a little over an hour.<br />
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Our route was to cross the Mersey to the west bank then run down the shipping lane, close to the west bank to Eastham.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eastham Lock </td></tr>
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All too soon, Stuart said that the Eastham Lock (connecting the river Mersey to the Manchester Ship Canal) was ahead of us. I couldn't even see it as we moved confidently forward but slowly it become visible. Ten minutes later we moved carefully into the lock. It was so big and the fog was still cutting down the visibility; we couldn't even see the end of it!
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lady Sandals</td></tr>
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MSC authorities held us at Eastham Lock for over an hour waiting for the fog to lift and in that time the motor yacht 'Lady Sandals' (owned by Gordon Stewart, chairman and founder of Sandals Resorts International) made the crossing and entered the lock that we had come through. Allowed to continue at last, we let the 'big boys' go first. It took 'Lady Sandals' all of four minutes to pass us , leave us behind and her wake to disappear leaving a mirror-like canal once more! The power of her engines left us stunned. But the fog had lifted and the day just got better.
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Half an hour later, we passed Ellesmere port. Ian and I had been to the living museum in Ellesmere Port last year but it was a little strange seeing it from a different perspective. The camera was working overtime as we sailed on past, but there was more to see as we passed
commercial ships in docks along the way. They made us feel very very small in comparison!<br />
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A little over two hours after the motor launch 'Lady Sandals' had left us behind at Eastham Lock, we were at Marsh lock that connects the River Weaver to the Ship Canal at Runcorn. This was as far down the Manchester Ship Canal as we were going. CRT personnel had the lock ready for us and we sailed in effortlessly, tied up and waited as the lock goats were swung closed behind us and the lock began to fill. <br />
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Leaving Marsh Lock brought to an end the first part of our trip and that, oddly, left me with a sad feeling - the most exciting part of the adventure was now behind us, but we still had the River Weaver to navigate up to Anderton. <br />
A little sad it may have been but it was truly exhilarating nonetheless. <br />
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We stopped for lunch along the river bank and the four well-behaved greyhounds were allow to stretch their legs for the first time that day.
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sue looking very serious as she confidently took the helm</td></tr>
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Stuart the pilot said goodbye to us all after lunch and we continued on up the river. All too soon, the iconic Anderton Boat Lift came into view, bring our boat trip to an end. What a marvellous experience. We wouldn't have missed it for all the world Thank you so much Richard and Sue for taking us with you!
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A little over twelve hours after nb 'Indigo Dream' slipped her mooring in Liverpool's Salthouse dock, (and only a ten minute taxi ride followed by a 30 minute train trip) Ian and I were back at Salthouse dock where we had left 'Winedown'. Methinks we will be dining out on that marvellous tale for a long time to come!
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The following day (Wednesday) was almost an anti-climax after the excitement of the day before but I can tell you that we enjoyed a lay-in as we re-lived our Mersey Crossing adventure.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ferry 'cross the Mersey</td></tr>
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A visit to the Maritime Museum, Tate gallery, Liverpool Museum, a ferry trip across the Mersey (would you believe it after our epic adventure earlier in the week) and a full day of hop-on hop-off open-top buss trips around the city were all part of the next few days.
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While on the tourist trip across the Mersey I was able to take a photo of the sea lock that we used when we entered the Mersey two days before. Pity we couldn't have taken this picture on the day.
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We found that a visit to the Anglican cathedral, built on a prominent site overlooking the city was awe inspiring. So many of the buildings in Liverpool are claimed to be the largest, oldest, longest, newest, highest 'in the world', so too the cathedral has its 'first' place. It is claimed to be the longest cathedral in the world, although it 'only' ranks as the fifth-largest in the world and contests with the incomplete Cathedral of Saint John the Devine in New York City for the title of the largest Anglican Church building.(Just a small point to note... there is a church building that is longer than Liverpool Cathedral and that is St Peter's Basilica in Rome, however St Peter's is not a cathedral).
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It is also claimed to be one of the world's tallest non-spired buildings. At 67m above floor level, the bells of Liverpool Cathedral are the highest and heaviest (those words again) ringing peal in the world.</div>
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Having taken nearly 70 years, the completion of the building was marked by a service of thanksgiving and dedication in October 1978. For all this <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">magnificence, the building is not just 'another cathedral', it is so vast with so much to see, that we missed the last bus back to the docks so our exhausting day of sight-seeing was finished with a long (but not the longest) walk home!</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tony & Jo with Ian</td></tr>
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My cousin Tony and Jo joined us for a day. We had planned a trip around the docks on board 'Winedown' but strong winds made us change our minds. Instead we headed to the 'Liverpool Arms' where we heard that they served a good 'Scouse'. Since we were in the home of Scouse, we had to try it, and a few days later we returned to try the Peawack, another Liverpudlian dish. <br />
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If you came and visit us on 'Winedown', don't be surprised to find either dish on the menu - we enjoyed both that much.
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Another first for Liverpool was the enclosed commercial wet dock designed by Thomas Steer. We took the amazing 'Old Dock Experience' tour from the maritime museum. The old dock is currently below the Liverpool One shopping centre and can only be accessed via the guided tour but I have to say that the archaeologists, Danny and Yass, who conduct the tour are great.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A small corner of the Old Dock</td></tr>
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After being buried since 1826, the Old Dock was re-discovered during excavations in 2001 and now for the first time in centuries, the bed of the 'Pool' (the creek that gave Liverpool it's name) can be seen. The Old Dock, constructed in 1715 at the mouth of the Pool paved the way to many decades of dock expansion on both sides of the Mersey and was at the heart of the town's success. The immense impact of this radical structure resulted in a significant loss of trade in London, Bristol and Chester throughout the 18th century, and it contributed largely to Britain's successful trading history that built the Great British Empire.
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thomas Steers Way</td></tr>
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When the current shopping complex - Liverpool One - was being built, a pedestrian walkway, 'Thomas Steers Way' was marked out over the centre of the original river inlet to the old doc. <br />
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I wonder how many of the hundreds of people who use the walkway each day actually know that they are walking over a part of history that put Liverpool on the world trading map.<br />
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Overshadowed little by Thomas Steers and the first enclosed wet dock, was William Hutchinson, an English mariner and privateer who was appointed dockmaster at Liverpool in 1759. William Hutchinson started keeping detailed tide and weather records and these formed a significant part of the data that was used in Holden's Tide Tables, published in 1770. The fountains that you see here has been designed to represent a full month of high and low tide times, taken from William Hutchinson's diaries.<br />
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On a lighter note, a pirate festival came to Albert Dock. On the weekend before we left (12th & 13th September) we enjoyed fun, festivities and live music, not to mention gunfire, cannon fire and a battle re-enactment or two.<br />
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We shared our Sunday roast dinner with Keith and Pam from nb 'Primrose' after we had enjoyed a sundowner on the front deck, all the while listening to Blues and Jazz. What could be better than that?<br />
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Keith told us about Baltic Fleet, a mid 1800's pub less than a 10 minute walk from Salthouse Dock. The pub boasts four ghosts but more to the point is the only brewery pub in Liverpool. The cellar has been used since 2001 for brewing a host of exceptional ales.<br />
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Ian couldn't resist a visit. Unfortunately, they don't do 'take-away' or he would have stocked the beer locker before we left, but he did learn of two tunnels leading from the cellar. One found its way to the docklands while the other went to the red light district of Cornhill. It appears that the Baltic Fleet connected crews of the square rigged ships to two of their fundamental needs, grog and 'ladies of the night'. How romantic! No, just good business.<br />
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As the sun set over the Mersey behind the statue of Billy Fury, the 1960's rock-and-roll star, it seemed a fitting end to a fabulous 10 days in Liverpool. <br />
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We prepared the boat for an early morning start on our scheduled departure from Salthouse dock, and although my brain couldn't take in much more information from the museums and galleries for the time being, we are certainly not short of new stories to add to our limited repertoire. <br />
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A return visit is definitely on the cards. </div>
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Winedownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07810679250079175437noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-270617978596328584.post-13791209838199871772015-09-05T06:31:00.001-07:002015-09-05T06:31:51.789-07:00.."it all happened quite by chanceDuring the week that we spent in Manchester, we made the most of our time, visiting art galleries and museums as well as simply taking in the sights and sounds of the city. Ian found a Chinese restaurant above the Wing Yip supermarket and was determined to partake of their excellent Dim Sum. Of course, I would never disagree with my beloved husband so without too much persuasion, I joined him - not once but twice!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gay Village - Manchester</td></tr>
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All too soon it was time to set off again. With the closure of the Bridgewater canal near Castlefield in Manchester, we had a 95 mile detour to look forward to. This would take more then two weeks, so we thought we had better get started!<br />
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Much of the detour would be retracing our steps of the past few months and I didn't think that I would have a lot to write about, however it was certainly not uneventful, so much so that I hardly had time to write about it all. Well here goes ...
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On Sunday afternoon we moved the boat from New Islington Marina on the Rochdale to Piccadilly Village on the Ashton Canal - a move of less than a mile with two locks - in order that we could get an early start up the Ashton flight. No sooner had we moored then Janice and Keith on narrowboat Bob moored behind us - they were on their way into Manchester. We spent the rest of the afternoon and evening chatting to them and we were even joined on the towpath by one of the residents of the nearby apartments. Very sociable!<br />
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The Ashton canal is a short stretch of only six miles from Piccadilly Village to Portland Basin but this includes a flight of sixteen locks. On that first day (10th August) we were only going as far as Fairfield Junction and the Droylsden Marina. Contrary to most horror stories, the passage up the flight was uneventful but as we arrived in the marina shortly before noon, the heavens opened and dropped a deluge on top of us. We were soaked to the skin within a few minutes. Happy Boating.<br />
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We had the afternoon to look around and were pointed in the direction of the Fairfield Moravian Church, a congregational settlement that opened in 1785.
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The settlement, built by its own people had all that a self-contained congregation would require. Besides the church there was a farm, a bakery, a shop, an inn, a laundry, a school, even a fire-engine, a physician, a night-watchman and much more. This sculpture is at the entrance to the settlement. <br />
There was also a museum, but unfortunately it is only open on a Saturday, however we found the settlement intriguing enough. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Early morning mist on the Marple Aqueduct</td></tr>
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Before we reached the Peak Forest Canal we had been warned that passage through lock 14 of the Marple flight was restricted (my heart sank, this is exactly the sort of news that we didn't want to hear) Fortunately, we found that the flight hadn't been shut. CRT were investigating a problem with lock 14 and were simply taking precautions. Nevertheless, we moored before the Marple Aqueduct so that we could get an early start up the flight the next morning.<br />
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And the day just got better as we ascended the flight. The picturesque setting was more impressive in the early morning light <br />
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At the top of the Marple Flight we left the Peak Forest Canal and turned onto the Macclesfield. Daniel, our grandson was going to spend time with us for the school holidays so we made arrangements to meet his parents, Tanya and David in Macclesfield on the weekend. this gave us a few days to spare so we moored in Macclesfield and made use of the extra time getting domestic chores (like laundry etc.) up to date.<br />
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Daniel was eager to do some boating (and fishing) so after a lovely Sunday lunch we said goodbye to Tanya and David as they made their way home to Chippenham and we set off down the canal heading for the top of Bosley locks. No sooner had we stopped for the evening, then Daniel set up his fishing stool. Sadly, no fish for dinner yet!<br />
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However, the following day, after working hard on the Bosley flight of 12 locks Daniel once again set up his fishing stool as soon as we moored up. it wasn't long before he successfully landed this beauty.<br />
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Les and Chris on narrowboat Eleventh Heaven had been similarly stopped in their tracks by the stoppage on the Bridgewater canal. As we negotiated the 95 mile (82 lock) detour, they were doing the same but from the opposite direction. We met at Porters Farm Bridge and aqueduct (on the Macclesfield canal) on Monday 17th August. Les and Chris had arranged to meet up with friends Doug and James on narrowboat Chance for the Manchester Pride celebrations on the August bank holiday so as they had quite a few miles and locks to put behind them they could only stop for that evening. The weather was good to us so we sat on the towpath enjoying the late afternoon calm. Predictably, after spending time with our friends, my cheeks ached from laughing and my jaws ached from talking. Not to mention, my head throbbed from consuming too much red wine!<br />
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In the morning, we left in different direction. Who knows when we will meet again! As it happened it was not to be very long, but I get ahead of myself!<br />
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Later that day we moored at Red Bull Aqueduct at the end of the Macclesfield canal. It had been an easy day and we stopped early so that we could do some shopping for provisions. It was here that we met Gary and Julie in narrowboat The Ellie Grace. Gary and Julie were going in the same direction as we were on the Trent & Mersey canal towards Anderton and on to the Bridgewater Canal at Preston Brook, so for the next week we travelled together sharing locks and swapping stories.<br />
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Daniel was an absolute star as he helped around the locks. Not only did he help me but he also helped other boats. In Middlewhich we were in a queue of nine boats all waiting to get through the locks and Daniel was helping alongside me as we got other boats through as quickly as possible. Poor chap was exhausted at the end of the day when we moored in Anderton!
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the Anderton Lift</td></tr>
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The weather wasn't the best with a forecast of rain, rain and more rain so we decided to stay in Anderton for the weekend. We could then explore the Anderton Lift and museum with Daniel without being hampered too much by the rain.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gary & Julie's family</td></tr>
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And we were invited to share Sunday lunch with Gary and Julie's family at the Stanley Arms.<br />
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Our time with Daniel was coming to an end. His mum and dad thought that traveling on the bank holiday was ludicrous - and I must admit, I agree. Since his mum Tanya had to be in Birmingham for business, David decided to drive the extra hour and a half to collect Daniel. But that also left us with options. Les and Chris had previously asked us if we would like to join them in Manchester for the Pride parade, now we had the opportunity to accept the invitation.<br />
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The Bridgewater canal link was still closed so we couldn't get the boat into Castlefield Basin, we would have to leave her near Waters Meeting and take a tram, but besides that it was only Wednesday; we had time to kill before the weekend. We said goodbye to Gary and Julie as they continued onto the Leeds & Liverpool canal on their way to Salthouse Dock in Liverpool and we found a lovely mooring near Dunham Town Bridge. As it happened, Dunham Massey a deer park was within walking distance so we had loads to occupy our spare time - besides some odd jobs that always want doing.</div>
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We had only been on our new spot for an hour or so when we were astonished to see old friends wandering down the towpath. The narrowboat Aussies Bron and Bob on Celtic Maid, and Julia and Malcolm on Figment were moored just out of sight, around the corner. Naturally we all got together on Figment for 'Happy Hour'</div>
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The following day, the lads went off to 'play'. They found a brewery that was begging to be visited, and the girls went in the opposite directing, heading towards the deer park. I had left my camera on the boat but I was determined to get a photo of the deer using my mobile phone. I was so intent in 'sneaking up' on a lovely deer that I failed to see a large dry branch lying in my path. I stepped on the branch and the loud crack startled the deer. It was further surprised by an even louder roar of laughter from my companions who just loved my fail attempt at stealth. Needless to say, all I managed to capture on my phone camera was the rear end of the deer as it wandered off, nibbling on the grass between steps!</div>
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Friday morning, we all parted company again, heading in different directions.<br />
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First, Julia and Malcolm passed on narrowboat Figment...
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...followed shortly by Bron and Bob on Celtic Maid. Ships that pass in the night (or rather, narrowboats that pass in the morning). That is the way of this nomadic life.
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Still on the Bridgewater canal, we headed towards Waters Meeting. The Bridgewater link with Manchester was still closed and we didn't want to simply leave the boat on the outskirts of the city unattended so we put the boat into Stretford Marina (about 1/2 mile from Waters Meeting). here we would be able to use the metrolink tram into Castlefield where Les and Chris were moored.<br />
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Our detour was now complete. We had covered the 95 miles and 82 locks in a 20 days.
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Narrowboat Eleventh Heaven (Les and Chris) had met up with James and Doug on narrowboat Chance as well as Andy and Rich on narrowboat Carpe Diem, so when we arrived in Castlefield on the Saturday to meet them all we had a lovely warm welcome celebrated with coffee and cake on board narrowboat Chance before we set off for the start of the parade.<br />
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Manchester Pride is an annual Pride festival and parade held over the August bank holiday weekend. It is one of the longest running in the country and attracts thousands of visitors to the city's gay village. Pride parades are events celebrating lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) culture and pride.<br />
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In 1989 the Northwest Campaign for Lesbian and Gay Equality organised Manchester's first documented 'Celebration of Gay an Lesbian Diversity'. However, earlier than that (sometime in the mid-1980's) the event began as a jumble sale outside the Rembrandt Hotel. It's purpose was to raise funds for AIDS and HIV causes. In 1991 the event was expanded to include a full program of activities and was christened 'The Carnival of Fun Weekend' and on the Monday night the celebrations ended with a firework display funded by the North West Development Agency. Good-Luck telegrams were received from Diana princess of Wales as well as other high-profile people.<br />
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Over the following years the event grew and was known as Madi Gras but went through 'ebbs and tides' with regard to the success of fund raising. At the closing of the 2003 parade it was announced that the event would be known as Manchester Pride and in 2007 it became a charity in its own right.
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We enjoyed our day at the parade, but more so we enjoyed our time with old friends and new and we were reluctant to leave. As luck would have it, the link on Bridgewater Canal re-opened to allow boats into Castlefield basin so on Monday morning, we moved our boat and moored near the other three, Eleventh Heaven, Chance and Carpe Diem. We were then able to join Les & Chris, Doug & James and Andy & Rich for the candlelight vigil and firework display that marked the end of the Manchester Pride celebrations on Monday evening.<br />
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And so it was that we crossed paths with Les & Chris on nb Eleventh Heaven, Julia & Malcolm on nb Figment and Bron & Bob on nb Celtic Maid. In addition we made new friends; Gary & Julie on nb The Ellie Grace, James & Doug on nb Chance and Andy & Rich on nb Carpe Diem. None of that may have happened if the Bridgewater Canal had not been closed and we were forced to make a long detour.<br />
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Life does take some strange but wonderful turns.
Winedownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07810679250079175437noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-270617978596328584.post-81524277454602655662015-08-03T09:57:00.004-07:002015-08-03T09:58:05.254-07:00Rochdale Canal - Manchester or Bust!The Rochdale Canal, a stretch of 33 miles and 92 locks, crosses the Pennine and connects the Calder & Hebble navigation at Sowerby Bridge in West Yorkshire to the Ashton and Bridgewater canals in Manchester, Lancashire. <br />
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This is a canal that is like Marmite... you either love it or you hate it and at times we did both!<br />
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Forming part of the South Pennine Ring, the Rochdale canal was re-opened to full navigation in July 2002 and is one of the latest canals to be restored.<br />
Between the 1980's and the 1990's small scale work began to open stretches of the canal between Todmorden and Sowerby Bridge but it was only after restoration work had been completed on many of the locks and bridges and the last obstacles removed during the simultaneous construction of the M60 and M62 motorways that the full navigation was opened. Almost 200 years after its initial opening.<br />
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One inspiring project was the Tuel Lane deep lock and tunnel that was built to replace two locks in an in-filled section of the old canal. Now with a drop of nearly 20ft the Tuel Lane Deep Lock is the deepest on the canal system today. There is a lock keeper (Billy) on duty to assist boaters through this section.<br />
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In 1766, just a few weeks after plans for the Leeds & Liverpool canal had been launched, a group of businessmen met to propose a shorter canal route via Rochdale. However, the initial plans lost momentum and when interest was re-ignited, the Duke of Bridgewater stepped in and refused to allow the canal to join with his Bridgewater canal. Plans were once more shelved until a rival company (the Manchester, Bolton & Bury Canal Company) proposed an eastwards connection that would run to the north of Rochdale. The Manchester, Bolton & Bury Canal Company were also considering a link to the Leeds & Liverpool canal and the Duke of Bridgewater realised that this would take trade away from the Bridgewater canal. He reversed his decision and agreed to the connection with the Rochdale. A revised Rochdale Canal Bill was passed in 1794.<br />
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The canal was completed and opened through to Manchester in 1804 making it the first trans-Pennine Canal route. The Leeds & Liverpool, a much longer Trans-Pennine route wasn't opened until 1816.<br />
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We joined the Rochdale Canal at Sowerby Bridge and after spending a few weeks moored in the basin it was time to move on again and see what the new canal had in store for us.<br />
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While refuelling, we discovered that 6 boats from Shire Cruises boat hire were about to be going out in our direction so we thought we would go through the Tuel Lane Deep lock and tie up until the flotilla had passed. We spent a pleasant afternoon chatting to Billy, the lock keeper and watching the world - and 6 boats filled with excited holiday makers - go by.<br />
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Tuesday morning, 21st July, after a hearty breakfast in the market place, we set off. We had been warned that the canal was shallow just before Hebden Bridge so we knew we had at least three miles and two locks before we came to that pound, However, nothing prepared us for the adventure we were to have!<br />
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As we reached lock 5 I noticed one of the hire boats from the day before, moored between locks 5 and 6. I remember thinking that they hadn't got very far the day before. We soon discovered that there was a good reason for that.<br />
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The cill on the lock had failed and resulted in the pound above it draining. Five of the six hire boats were grounded in the pound. <br />
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It would take another 4 days for the lock to be repaired and we could do nothing more than wait.<br />
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Making the most of our unplanned stay, Ian found a bus time table and the next day we took the bus over the Pennines to Haworth, the last home of the Bronte sisters. The bus ride took us through lovely countryside with breath-taking views over the hills. That in itself was worthwhile. <br />
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On arriving, we made a bee-line for the information centre where we were almost overwhelmed with information on places to visit, walks to follow, and the steam train that runs in the Worth Valley. We were spoilt for choice!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Haworth</td></tr>
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Haworth is a lovely town with amazing views and it has built its current prosperity on tourism. The beautiful cobbled high street is festooned with coffee shops and tea rooms and there are a number of pubs all vying for the tourist trade. Certainly very different from the time when the Bronte family lived there.<br />
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Looking down the length of the high street, the magnificent views can't be missed. <br />
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(For more details, see previous blog "...And then there was none - Stranded on the Rochdale canal")<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hebden Bridge</td></tr>
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After the 4 day wait, the lock was repaired and we continued into Hebden bridge. Personnel from C&RT had asked us to give the canal a chance to recover its water levels before we continued so we spent the weekend moored in the town basin. This gave me a chance to get the laundry done and also for us to sample a 'Sunday Lunch' at a local pub.<br />
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The start of a new week, Monday 27th July we untied the mooring ropes and once again, full of expectation, we set off. This time we were only able to get through two locks and less than 1/2 mile before we ran aground again. <br />
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To begin with it was quite a difficult situation as Ian was on the boat and couldn't get off while I was off the boat and couldn't get on. A man living alongside the canal helped us get the bow closer into the bank; close enough to get the boarding plank to bridge the gap.<br />
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By this time I was quite frustrated. It had taken us six days to go all of 6 miles work only 11 locks. We still had 27 miles and 81 locks to go.<br />
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We had no choice but to call C&RT to help. In 17 years of boating, this would be the second time we had resorted to calling the C&RT help line - the first being on the Huddersfield canal only a few weeks before!<br />
The problem this time was the state of locks 11 and 12. They were both in such bad repair that they were leaking water and overnight most of the water in the pound had drained away. More water had to be sent down the canal, lock by lock, in order to fill that section again. It wasn't till nearly 6:00pm that enough water had been sent down the canal to get us afloat, but by that time, the C&RT crew were going off duty. I was afraid that during the night we would lose that water again and be back to square one. With only a few hours of daylight left, Ian and I were determined to get out of this pickle. We certainly didn't want to be sitting aground in the middle of the pound all night and we didn't want to have to start again the next day! The only solution was to pick up where the C&RT crew had left off. Since they had brought the water so far, we would have it! After calling the emergency line again and being promised more help, I went ahead to open the lock paddles to let the water into the pound. Ian waited for the water to arrive and lift the boat off the bottom of the canal then managed to move the boat along inch by painful inch. To make matters worse, it had started to rain! <br />
Billy ( the lockie from Tuel Lane Deep Lock) was on call-out duty and arrived about an hour later. With his help we managed to get Winedown above the problem area. Totally exhausted and soaked to the skin, we all called it a day and just as the light was failing we moored below lock 14. Our progress for the rest of that day? Another 2 locks and 2 miles. <br />
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By the morning more help had been provided and water levels restored, so we pushed on, aiming for the summit. (We later heard that the canal had been closed at the section in order to repair locks 11 and 12)<br />
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As we climbed higher and higher, leaving first Hebden Bridge and then Todmorden behind, the views became more spectacular. However, once again, exhaustion got the better of us and forced us to stop at lock 29. Frustratingly we were only 2 miles and 9 locks from the summit but we were physically drained and couldn't summon another ounce of strength to continue.<br />
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By morning, after a goodnight's sleep we were ready to continue our odyssey and under a brooding sky, slipped the mooring ropes and set off....<br />
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... and later that day, Wednesday 29th July, we reached the summit. The views were well worth all the heartache.<br />
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Over the top and down the other side ...<br />
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... between lock operations we could certainly appreciate the scenery.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Richard and Ian in New Islington - Manchester</td></tr>
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But the Rochdale Canal is not an easy navigation. It is physically exhausting and relentless, and we were very grateful for Richard's help as he assisted us down the last 18 locks into New Islington, Manchester. Only 9 more locks and two miles to complete the Rochdale Navigation!<br />
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(Richard works for C&RT and is on hand to help boaters if required. Thank you very much for your help)<br />
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But our story didn't end there! No sooner had we moored for the day and said goodbye to Richard, when we heard that the Bridgewater canal (at the point where the Rochdale joins the Bridgewater) would be closed for a minimum of 4 weeks! This was due to a collapsed derelict building on the canal side. The building would have to be demolished before the canal would be opened again.<br />
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So near yet so far!<br />
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We had three options...<br />
1) wait for 4 weeks;<br />
2) go back the way we had come;<br />
3) divert onto the Ashton navigation and back to the Peak Forest and Macclesfield.<br />
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The last option (and really our only option) would give us a round trip of 92 miles and 85 locks that would take us approximately 2 weeks! <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Through Manchester's Gay Sector</td></tr>
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First, we would stay put in Manchester and take the time to visit museums and art galleries while we recharged our batteries (and do some obligatory maintenance)!<br />
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<br />Winedownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07810679250079175437noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-270617978596328584.post-59442472487822519932015-07-24T12:46:00.000-07:002015-07-24T12:46:23.088-07:00... And then there was none - Stranded on the Rochdale canal<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3bIFQzo2RMO3gddbRtPE3dWQaT4tHiqntOGxnRlZM8nYxhqtvOLBgtQHx7RQrOlb1qjFLcDwExHW7_0mfLRLp6-Ks8FcBlUQsmDmwfRpoeMXeDX6TlYM-4UMR-CtwYCwfa09V_SWs-WmY/s1600/IMG_2234.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3bIFQzo2RMO3gddbRtPE3dWQaT4tHiqntOGxnRlZM8nYxhqtvOLBgtQHx7RQrOlb1qjFLcDwExHW7_0mfLRLp6-Ks8FcBlUQsmDmwfRpoeMXeDX6TlYM-4UMR-CtwYCwfa09V_SWs-WmY/s320/IMG_2234.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Boater and Son statue at Sowerby Bridge</td></tr>
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We had been moored in the basin at Sowerby Bridge for nearly 2 weeks while we visited family, but on returning to the boat I was itching to get going again. <br />
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Sowerby Bridge is at the start of the Rochdale canal so it was to be a new canal for us to explore. <br />
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While refuelling, we discovered that 6 boats from Shire Cruises were about to be going out in our direction so we thought we would go through the Tuel Lane Deep lock and tie up until the flotilla had passed. We spent a pleasant afternoon chatting to Billy, the lock keeper and watching the world - and 6 boats filled with excited holiday makers - go by.<br />
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Tuesday morning we had a hearty breakfast in the marketplace before setting off. Two full English breakfasts plus coffee for a total of £5.60 It was almost as good as the price we paid in Spain! <br />
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Finally, we set off in good spirits. The first mile and a half was mostly through the edge of industrial land with residential properties clinging precariously to respectability, but soon the countryside started to open up and we were rewarded with lovely views.<br />
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We had mapped out an easy day with our first stop being Hebden Bridge and although we had been warned that in places the canal was shallow just before that, we were sure that we had at least three miles and two locks before we came to the shallow pound.<br />
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Three miles along the Rochdale canal, we reached lock 5. I noticed one of the hire boats moored between locks 5 and 6 and thought that they hadn't got very far the day before. We soon discovered that there was a good reason for that. Five of the six boats were stuck in the shallow pound and the sixth boat had tied up just short of lock 6.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV3qaHa-CvPisbAYxQsYDLwLSkayabvsDAFphnLz0ikChyphenhyphenNztKOWYh129LYq6J7Phl7uqvbfNaA9vJsaTqJAwhYREzkxziCuQb9O-mWF2a3VR4rscehNxAxD4JB4GywdpxrG991qhOLMpF/s1600/IMG_2255.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV3qaHa-CvPisbAYxQsYDLwLSkayabvsDAFphnLz0ikChyphenhyphenNztKOWYh129LYq6J7Phl7uqvbfNaA9vJsaTqJAwhYREzkxziCuQb9O-mWF2a3VR4rscehNxAxD4JB4GywdpxrG991qhOLMpF/s320/IMG_2255.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grounded</td></tr>
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They were the lucky ones. Staff from Shire Cruises reversed their boat back through lock 5, turned them around at the winding and they were soon on their way back to Sowerby Bridge with the prospect of continuing their holiday in a different direction.<br />
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The cill on lock 6 had been badly damaged and was leaking water. This must have been happening for a few days, steadily getting worse which would explain the shallow pound. Finally, the lock failed and the pound above it drained, trapping the 5 boats in the process.<br />
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Although we could go no further, we still had water under us (unlike this poor boat pictured here) so we moored on the lock operation and walked the three miles into Hebden Bridge for the afternoon. If nothing else, we had time!<br />
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Returning later that afternoon, we discovered that the stretch of the canal (pound) that we were in seemed to loosing water too, so we reversed through lock 5 and moored below the lock. just as well because by the next morning the pound was well down and we would have been hanging on our mooring ropes.<br />
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By Wednesday mid-day (22nd July), CRT had filled the stretch above lock 6 to free the stranded hire-boats. All very well for them but we couldn't move because we were the wrong side of the failed lock 6. <br />
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Locking up the boat, we took the bus into Hebden Bridge with a rucksack full of laundry. I could at least get that done while we were forced to wait. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stop Locks being inserted</td></tr>
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More bad news awaited us when we returned. CRT indicated that it wouldn't be much before Friday evening before they had repaired the lock. By that time our fresh water tank would be running very low. "Not a problem," said Paul from CRT, "I'll get Billy to bring you fresh water tomorrow." With that problem out of the way, all we had to do was sit tight and wait.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUJTevu1AwlDfwrbuqS_GnU_83xKG9mJ7RTIh7OTunfZMM0MeM2d8n9hS9APJg3jNUvMAKWkLhGauuX2lyDP9igDv3axfnMO9jzoZ6GJpDPiNyRSPIAdStf4Xj-P9ZU5oCqKBqK5grvn4E/s1600/IMG_2267.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUJTevu1AwlDfwrbuqS_GnU_83xKG9mJ7RTIh7OTunfZMM0MeM2d8n9hS9APJg3jNUvMAKWkLhGauuX2lyDP9igDv3axfnMO9jzoZ6GJpDPiNyRSPIAdStf4Xj-P9ZU5oCqKBqK5grvn4E/s320/IMG_2267.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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True to his word, Billy arrived the next morning with 8 litres of bottled water. That solved the drinking water problem but we still had to be careful with our domestic water if we were going to be stuck for a while.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Haworth Main Street</td></tr>
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On Thursday 23rd July Ian and I set off to enjoy the surrounding countryside. Haworth is Bronte country and a bus ride over the moors took us there.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The parsonage - Inspirational home of the Bronte sisters</td></tr>
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We spent a lovely day steeped in the history of Haworth and the famous Bronte family. Beside the Bronte museum, we wandered around the restored Parsonage, the family home of Patrick Bronte (father), Barnwell Bronte (brother)and the three Bronte sisters, Charlotte, Emily and Anne.<br />
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After a full day, we caught the bus back to Hebden bridge. Expecting to see some progress, we were disappointed to find that the scaffolding was still being erected. Work hadn't even been started on the cill problem.<br />
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Oh well, we knew that we would be stranded for another full day at the very least.<br />
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Friday 24th July, 3 days after having been stopped at Lock 6 on the Rochdale canal, we decided to enjoy a 'Steam Adventure' along the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway.<br />
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Taking the bus again over the south Pennine hills which gave us glorious views over the moors, we headed for the town of Oxenhope. In the 1800's Oxenhope along with Haworth was a working village with the main industry being the production of Worsted yarn and cloth (Worsteds were fine cloths using long-fibre wool). Today the typical long, narrow window structure of the handloom weavers cottages is still evident and even more modern houses are being built with the old architectural feature.<br />
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Ian bought two 'Rovers' tickets which gave us a full day of hop-on hop-off activity on the steam train as well as access to the vintage bus and entrance to the museums at Ingrow. We had a fabulous day.<br />
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On returning to Hebden bridge we were delighted to find that the lock 6 cill had finally been repaired and the scaffolding was being removed. Billy phoned us later in the evening to tell us that the canal would be opened on Saturday morning - four days after the problem was found with the cill on lock 6.<br />
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With our heads full of Bronte history, steam trains and railway museums, we look forward to continuing on our way along the Rochdale Canal.<br />
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I am pleased that we were forced to slow down even further and look around us. We may not have discovered as much as we did if we had sailed right on past Hebden Bridge.<br />
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A huge 'Thank You' to Billy, CRT lock keeper at Tuel Lane Deep Lock who looked after our welfare!Winedownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07810679250079175437noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-270617978596328584.post-83236562766718182362015-07-19T10:04:00.000-07:002015-07-19T10:04:51.420-07:00Calder & Hebble to Sowerby BridgeAfter the shallow conditions of the Huddersfield canals, it was with a sigh of relief that we felt some water beneath us on the Calder & Hebble navigation. Almost half of the navigation follows the course of the River Calder with short man-made stretches of locks and by-weirs, providing the depth of water that we enjoyed. <br />
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The locks (as they were on the Huddersfield broad Canal) are short - just 57ft long while our boat is 60ft - and it would take us all our concentration to diagonally lock through them. Ian had removed the bow and stern fenders and still we only had mere inches to spare.<br />
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The Calder & Hebble canal is almost unique in that it requires the use of a hand spike as a way of operating the ground, and gate paddles on the locks. Ian elected to operate the 15 locks while I took the helm. A few days earlier, we had met John and Shirley Winton who had come from this navigation and since they had no further use for their hand spike, they gave it to us to save us purchasing our own. Thank you John and Shirley!<br />
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Following the river valley, the rural outlook was unspoiled and it was only the distant rumble of the motorway with an occasional aqueduct and viaduct hidden alongside stone bridges that made one realise that we were actually never far from urbanisation. <br />
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We had been notified of a problem with the Guillotine Lock at Salterhebble so we tied up on the lock operation mooring and Ian went to investigate wile I made some coffee. The CRT fellows had a similar idea and asked if we wouldn't mind if they finished their 'brew' before helping us through the lock. Well we were in no hurry and I took the opportunity to ask questions about the area, the unusual lock and the problems associated with it. I was even asked if I would like a job at CRT since I showed such interest. Um... 'Job' verses boating in the summer?? I think not - but thanks for asking!<br />
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Following the notes in the Nicholson Guide, we headed for Elland Basin to moor for the night. with an expectation of "tasetfully restored buildings and gardens" that were "worth more than a fleeting glance" we thought we were in for a treat. However, the visitor mooring was alongside a pub - convenient but also not too busy - and the basin was crammed with long term mooring boats so there was little to see. We enjoyed a drink at the pub while chatting to the friendly landlady before returning to our boat and cooking supper. <br />
Note to self - although the Nicolson's guide is updated regularly, you cannot always believe what they say!<br />
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Ian had found a marina in Sowerby Bridge that offered overnight and visitor mooring and having decided to take a few days to visit family, we headed for the basin. It was in the restored basin that we found this delightful 'Boatman and Son' statue. The mooring was not bad and with a charge of just £25.00 per week, we booked two weeks. To put this into context, we have paid anything from £10.00 to £18.00 per night for visitor mooring in the past. We also had the option of an electrical hook-up so decided to leave the boat's service batteries on charge while we were away.<br />
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We hired a car through Enterprise hire car company since we are guaranteed of being collected wherever we are. At the appointed time, the car arrived and we locked up the boat, loaded up the car and set off for Brough to visit my Aunt and Uncle.<br />
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While we were there, we spoiled Aunt Shiela - and us - with an 'Afternoon Tea' at an hotel alongside the Humber River (it was her 86th birthday within the week and she certainly doesn't look it)...<br />
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... and the following day, Saturday, cousin Tony and his lovely other half, Jo arranged for us all to meet for lunch.<br />
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We had a wonderful time and all too soon it was time to hit the road again!<br />
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Next stop was Caversham, Reading to visit daughter Jo and family. I have missed the children - Hollie, now 3 1/2 and Elliott, 18 months - so it was an enjoyable (if somewhat exhausting) visit. We enjoyed a walk along the River Thames and spent time in the play park before an afternoon at the 'Soft Play. Here the children get their revenge on parents - and grandparents -as they have us running in and out of their purpose-built play area. I did sleep well after all that exercise and I hope that I burned off some of the extra calories from the week before.<br />
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Returning to the boat, we had a few days in the basin while we waited for the boat safety examiner. It gave us time to get some maintenance jobs done (Ian had to put the bow and stern fenders back on while I caught up the washing and cleaning) as well as explore Sowerby Bridge before we once again hit the waterways - this time the Rochdale Navigation.<br />
<br />Winedownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07810679250079175437noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-270617978596328584.post-80088881122424051412015-07-06T08:53:00.000-07:002015-07-06T08:54:16.344-07:00Beauty and the BeastThe Huddersfield Canal is divided into two separate sections, the Huddersfield Broad - 3 1/2 miles and nine locks which was the original section, and the Huddersfield Narrow - 20 miles and 74 locks - which runs over the Pennines and includes the mighty Standedge Tunnel; Each has its own set of challenges for the modern boater.<br />
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The Huddersfield Broad runs from the Calder & Hebble navigation at Cooper bridge to the centre of Huddersfield in West Yorkshire and was originally known as the Cooper Canal. Opened in 1776 it proved to be a lifeline for the rapidly developing textile industry in Huddersfield, bringing coal in and shipping completed textiles out.
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The Huddersfield Narrow, fully opened in 1811 linked the southern end of the broad canal to the Ashton and Peak Forest Canals on the Lancashire side of the Pennines, at Ashton-Under-Lyne in Greater Manchester. The canal was designed to take advantage of the valleys of the Rivers Tame and Colne but it would still require a tunnel under the Pennines at Standedge. Its 20 mile length would have 74 locks, 32 West of the tunnel and 42 east of the tunnel. This was to provide a more direct link between Leeds and Manchester than the existing Rochdale Canal. <br />
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Intended to be a 'cut above the rest' the daring plan of the Huddersfield Canal almost failed to become reality. Although the canal itself was completed in a reasonable amount of time, the tunnel was beset with problems right from the beginning and the whole project bankrupted many of its investors before Thomas Telford was invited to take control. Rather than the planned 5 years to construct, It would be 17 years before the tunnel and thus the canal was finally opened.
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Due to spending cuts (sounds familiar doesn't it) the intended towpath through the tunnel wasn't built so boatman had to 'leg' the boat through the tunnel by lying on boards across the front of the boat and walking along the roof of the tunnel. This would take up to four hours. After the canal fell into decline it lay as a 'muddy ditch' and was in some places built over until it was restored and re-opened in 2001.<br />
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We turned onto the Huddersfield Narrow Canal at Ashton- Under-Lyne, traveling east out of Portland Basin towards Stalybridge. Passing through 'Asda Tunnel' the short underpass that brings you almost directly under the supermarket, we were surprised to note that there was no mooring, oh well, Tesco is a only a mile away with plenty of mooring so we decided to stop there. Asda, you have really missed a trick!<br />
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An interesting tale is that it was in the Newmarket Tavern in Stalybridge that composer Jack Judge wrote and first sang the song 'Its a long way too Tipperary' that became popular among soldiers in the First World War.<br />
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We had originally thought that we would moor in Stalybridge, but we were warned against that as boats have had stones thrown at them and although mooring was plentiful, we noticed that even the 'continuous moorers' don't stop there and that is a bad sign!
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As we navigated through the town, we got stuck under a road bridge where a supermarket trolley had been dumped into the canal. We had to drag it out from underneath the boat before we could pass. I noticed that the £1 coin used to secure the trolley was still in its slot so I took great pleasure in liberating it for my trouble, and didn't even bother to move the trolley from the towpath - I was so angry!<br />
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On the outskirts of Stalybridge we met up with working boat 'Hazel'. We had been trailing behind her since we had left Bugsworth basin, so when we found her moored at her heritage site, we stopped to have a chat. John Sargent, the TV journalist and presenter had used narrowboat Hazel while he was filming a new episode of 'Barging around Britain' however the hard working crew had only scathing comments to make about the celebrity and his shameful treatment of them. Oh well - that showbiz!<br />
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On the western side of the Pennines, close to Stalybridge, at Hartshead Power Station, the canal runs through the legs of an Electricity Pylon. The pylon was erected before the canal was restored and the only route for the restoration was through its legs. <br />
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It was the right decision to continue on through Stalybridge as the mooring before Lock 15W in Mossley was delightful. Although a little shallow and therefore we were not able to moor snugly alongside the bank, we had a lovely view over the canal with a backdrop of the majestic Pennines -reminding us of the hard work to come. We stayed an extra day in order to explore and appreciate the Lancashire countryside.<br />
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With the Pennines rearing up ahead, we followed the navigation through its beautiful if somewhat tortuous path towards Uppermill where once again, we stopped to explore and visit the museum. Sadly the museum was undergoing renovation so the majority of displays had been dismantled. <br />
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Beyond Uppermill, the Saddleworth Viaduct that carries the Manchester - Huddersfield railway crosses over the canal between locks 22W and 23W before the waterway, still climbing relentlessly, emerges alongside the railway line. Together they pick their way across stunning moorland as we ascend the last few miles to the summit.<br />
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Tired and aching from the operation of the stiff lock paddles, we arrived at Lock 31W. Thinking that we only had one more lock to go before we could stop for the night, we were pleasantly surprised to hear the proprietor of the Ice cream shop advise that it was a better mooring before the last lock. We didn't need a second invitation. we moored up and went back for a delicious ice-cream and even had lunch - It turned out that Grandpa Green's Ice Creams is more than just an ice cream shop!<br />
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Arriving ahead of schedule, we had to wait for Monday before we could go through the Standedge tunnel. Passage is by appointment only and CRT provide a pilot to take you through. I can think of worse places to stay! <br />
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With beautiful moorland all around, an ice cream shop in shouting distance and beautiful sunshine, what more could you ask for?<br />
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The Standedge tunnel has its limitations with regard to the dimension of craft going through. We knew that we would have to dismantle the cratch and take down the roof box, so while I cooked a traditional Sunday Lunch, Ian got to work emptying the roof box, stowing the bicycles in the back cabin and taking down the cratch By the time we were scheduled to go through the tunnel, we were more than ready.<br />
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The railway shares the tunnel, albeit through a separate section. It would take us more than two hours to go through while the train pictured here would only take two minutes.<br />
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The CRT guides were very friendly and knowledgeable. once they had gone through all the health and safety procedures and checked the boat dimensions against their gauges, we were all set to go, however we had to wait for a boat coming the other way before we set off. <br />
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The tunnel was amazing. the colours of the different types of rock, the natural rock against brick built sections and the tool marks where the navvies dug the tunnel by hand all contributed to the magnificence.<br />
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Well we had climbed the mountain -at least the Pennines anyway - and conquered the tunnel, so it was almost an anti-climax as we started the long steady descent towards Huddersfield. The lock operation was no less arduous as the navigation drops rapidly through 42 locks over 8 miles.<br />
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At lock 37E, Smudgees Lock, the Blue Peter logo is emblazoned on the balance beam. - that is not something you see every day. It turned out that the TV presenter of the longest-running children's magazine program 'Blue Peter' had rolled up his sleeves and got stuck into making a new lock gate and then fitting it with the help of the CRT staff.<br />
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At lock 31 the beautiful gardens that were tended right alongside the lock was a pleasure to look at. I have to say that besides the beautifully tended gardens, I noticed that the friendly people along the towpath were more than happy to chat. Something you certainly don't experience in a town. People stopped to tell us about a pub that served good food, a bakery renowned for its outstanding bread and even a pie shop that has the best pork pies. It really is uplifting!<br />
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Lock 24E is an unusual guillotine lock. As I was winding the bridge's hydraulic system a lady asked if she could have a go. I happily gave her my windlass and while she endlessly wound that windlass to raise the guillotine she told me how she had always wanted to hire a narrowboat and take a trip. Well we all have a similar story about 'always wanting to do...' something and I say 'Just Do It' life is too short not to.<br />
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After an exhausting day, we stopped at Slathwaite but not before we had navigated some very low bridges. The roof box only just slipped beneath them as the box cover grazed the underside. I found that I was holding my breath as I steered 'Winedown' through them. <br />
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We found suitable mooring opposite a pallet manufacturing company and although they worked late shifts, we slept too well to hear the work noise. A few hours after we moored, narrowboat Horace owned by John and Shirley Winton drew up in front of us having come up the navigation from the opposite direction. All any of us could manage in the draining heat was a brief conversation as we were all exhausted but we made up for it the following evening. We dined together on the front deck of our boat and it was nearly midnight and a few bottles of wine later before we parted company.<br />
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Thursday morning (2nd July) we bid John and Shirley farewell and set off on the last leg towards Huddersfield , they meanwhile set off heading for the summit. Despite all the horror stories that we had heard about getting stuck due to lack of water, we made it to lock 2 without incident. mind you, we were taking our water with us as we descended through the last 20 locks.<br />
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In some places, the water was so plentiful that water was coming over the lock gates.<br />
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When we reached lock 11 a fella was sitting in a deckchair on the towpath, sunning himself. as we approached, he got up and opened the lock gate in front of us, he then went on to set and open the next two locks. All that just for the chance to chat. How great some people can be. <br />
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Our luck didn't hold, however.Between lock 2and 1 (the last of the day and the last of the Huddersfield Narrow canal) we stuck fast in an old lock chamber and to make matters worse, the straight lock sides rose 10ft above the boat so we couldn't even get off the boat. We were well and truly stuck. We had to call out Canal and River Trust (CRT) to rescue us. As most Englishmen do, when in difficulty, make a pot of tea! I made tea while waiting for CRT to flush more water down from the lock above to re-float us.<br />
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Just as we started to slowly inch forward again, the heavens opened and we got drenched, but our story didn't end there. A man (Alan was his name) sheltering from the pouring rain below a bridge had witnessed our plight and as we slowly thrust our way through the clinging clay lined canal he opened the lock gates in front of us to ensure that we didn't have to stop and thereby get stuck again. He too was soaked to the skin, but he said that he knew if we had lost momentum, we would have struggled to get going again, so he ignored his own comfort in order to help us. Talk about the milk of human kindness.<br />
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And so it was exhausted and soaked that we thankfully tied up in Aspley Basin, the end of the Huddersfield narrow and the start of the Huddersfield Broad canal.<br />
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We met up with Ian's cousins at the pub in Aspley. it has been years since we last saw them so despite our exhaustion, we soon got our second wind and had a lovely evening.<br />
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I have to admit that I was very pleased to see the end of the Huddersfield Narrow Canal and hope that we don't have to go back over it again.<br />
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Monday 6th July, after having spent the weekend in Huddersfield, we set off down the Huddersfield broad canal. The first bridge that we came to was an unusual lift bridge dating back to 1865.<br />
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The locks on this broad stretch of the canal system are short (57.5ft and Winedown is 60ft). We knew that we could get through by putting the boat into the lock diagonally, but we still faced our new challenge with a little trepidation.However, once we had passed through the first of the nine short locks and worked out the technique, the rest was plain sailing. <br />
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The last three and a half miles of the Huddersfield canal passes through a mix of industrial buildings with a few green sports fields to break the urbanisation. The canal itself was full of litter and therefore didn't present its best profile so it was with some relief that we turned onto the Calder & Hebble navigation at Cooper Bridge and said farewell to the Huddersfield Canal. It has been a good experience and a lot of hard work but I can't say that I would be in a hurry to return.<br />
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Winedownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07810679250079175437noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-270617978596328584.post-14549213235314291972015-06-28T11:22:00.001-07:002015-06-28T11:22:44.796-07:00Macclesfield and the Peak Forest CanalsBefore the Trent & Mersey canal is joined by the Macclesfield canal at Kidsgrove, the navigation abandons it's twisting contour course and heads for Harecastle Hill and the notorious 2926 yard (2675.5 meters) long tunnel which burrows beneath it.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Harecastle Tunnel</td></tr>
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The original tunnel was completed in 1777 after 11 years' work. Since there was no towpath, laden boats had to be legged through. This was done by men lying on the boat's cabin roof and propelling the boat by walking along the tunnel roof. As one can imagine, this was a slow and laborious process. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Light at the end of the tunnel</td></tr>
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Fortunately we didn't have to leg our boat through, but the low, narrow profile of the tunnel makes for slow progress and once we started, it was 50 minutes before we emerged into the sunshine once again.<br />
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But Harecastle is by no means the longest tunnel. That accolade belongs to the Standedge tunnel (5686 yards long) on the Huddersfield canal - more than twice the length!<br />
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After the excitement of the Harecastle tunnel, it was almost an anti-climax as we turned onto the Macclesfield canal and moored for the night near the Red Bull Aqueduct. A short time later we were joined by narrowboat Figment and its owners Julia and Malcolm Kirk. <br />
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Ian helped Malcolm to moor up his boat and soon we got talking (as like-minded boaters do). The deckchairs came out and we settled down with a glass in hand to 'chew the fat'. Julia found that the Red Bull CRT (Canal & River Trust) Centre had a laundry, so taking advantage of that, she stripped her bed and piled all her laundry into bags and set off. Malcolm was torn between helping his wife or enjoying a glass of something with us. The laundry was less appealing! However it wasn't long before Julia returned having had all sorts of trouble with the laundry machine, the dryer and the control card - but that is another story.The long summer evening was pleasant, the wine and cider made easy drinking and before any of us we knew it, it was getting dark - after 10:00pm - and although we had nibbled on snacks, none of us had eaten. I managed to throw together a toasted something to soak up the alcohol and we all retired only shortly before midnight - and that is how it happens.<br />
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The following morning, feeling a little worse-for-wear, we set off along the Macclesfield canal. This canal, which runs just west of the Pennines, bears the distinctive hallmark of Thomas Telford's engineering. Following as straight a course as possible and featuring many cuttings and embankments, it is not unlike the Shropshire Union Canal. All the locks are grouped into one flight of 12 at Bosley. We moored at the bottom of the Bosley flight so that we could tackle the flight in the morning when we were fresh.<br />
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The views were spectacular.The rural, unspoiled setting makes me realise just how lucky we are to have such panoramic vistas while living in this densely populated part of the world. Its quite humbling.<br />
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Leaving the hilly countryside behind, the navigation entered the outskirts of Macclesfield. besides it flour mills and the iconic Hovis mill, Macclesfield built its notoriety around silk. Now this was an enigma to me. 'Why did Silk - a product of China - put Macclesfield on the map? The question was soon answered as we explored the silk museum. It all started with a prolific range of holly trees. The wood from the holly tree was desirable for buttons and soon a flourishing trade in buttons was supplying the London fashion houses. As time went on and fashions changed, a supply of silk covered buttons was required so barges brought the imported silk fibre from London to Macclesfield and returned with the covered buttons. From these small beginnings, weaving looms and large silk factories were built.<br />
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Along the length of the Macclesfield canal these graceful 'roving' bridges can be found. When the towpath has to change from one side of the canal to the other, these 'change-over' bridges were built in order to assist the horse-drawn barges. The horse can navigate the bridge and change from one side to the other without having to unhitch the tow ropes.<br />
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The canal continued on its lonely course towards Marple where it joins the Peak Forest Canal. The spectacular panoramic views over the Goyte valley continued to astonish us and we stopped frequently just to admire a view or simply to walk a little. If stress was a factor in our lives currently, this would be the great 'Stress buster'<br />
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It had taken us a little over a week to complete the 28 mile stretch of the Macclesfield canal but it was a week of outstanding beauty. We were lucky enough to be enchanted afresh as we turn onto the Peak Forest Canal and headed to the terminus at Bugsworth Basin - once the largest and busiest inland port on the narrow canal system.<br />
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Bugsworth Basin, once a teeming, thriving industrial centre, was built to transport limestone from nearby quarries to industry in the North West of the country. Flames, dust and smoke would have belched from the lime kilns as they were charged until the valuable burnt lime was drawn from the hearth at the bottom of the kiln. At it's peak, more than 80 boats a day were loaded to the gunwales with this vital raw material for building, farming and the booming textile and tanning industries, before setting off once more down the canal. Today it is a place of tranquillity and remarkable natural, as well as man-made beauty. <br />
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It is hard to imagine the deafening activity that once took place here, as we walked along the tranquil wharfs of the canal basin. Although many of the buildings and lime kilns have gone, the canals, paths and bridges map out a system of transport and industry that would be hard to find anywhere else in the world. Now, among the permanent inhabitants of the basin are the kingfisher, heron, Canada geese and other waterfowl.<br />
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It was at Bugsworth basin that we met up with narrowboat Figment again and had a lovely BBQ with Julia, and Malcolm as well as the narrowboating Aussies, Bron and Bob and to complete the multicultural gathering, Spaniard Pablo and his English wife Carly.<br />
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The following day, Malcolm & Julia on NB Figment and Bron & Bob on NB Celtic Maid left Bugsworth while we stayed on for a week. it would be lovely to see them again, but we will be sure to keep in touch via social media.<br />
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Shortly before they left the heavens opened and the rain pelted down. even the poor goslings were drenched, but as is the way with the English summer, the weather is so unpredictable. A short time later the sun shone and the clouds dispersed but the temperature didn't improve much. Undaunted, we walked into Whaley Bridge where there was a water festival going on. Ian's cousin Susan had joined us so we wandered around the stalls with a mug of hot chocolate in our cold hands.<br />
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The following weekend, our daughter and son-in-law with grandson Daniel joined us and since it was Father's day that weekend we celebrated in style at the Navigation Inn, a local pub. BBQ was out of the question as it was pouring with rain - again - but that didn't dampen our celebrations. Oh yes... it must be 'Pimms O'Clock'<br />
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On that sodden Sunday, we saw John Sargent the TV journalist making another episode of 'Barging Around Britan' but we were disappointed with his attitude and treatment of the crew of the 100 year old restored working boat 'Hazel'- the boat that he used for the filming. The hard-working crew were shunned as being of little importance as Mr Sargent went about his business. A few days later we caught up with the bedraggled crew who were returning the boat to its heritage site, while John took himself off in his fancy car. Shame on you John Sargent!<br />
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It was time for us to move on again. On the Tuesday we said a fond farewell to Pablo and Carly and set off along the Peak Forest canal to Marple Junction where we encountered the flight of 16 locks that carries the Peak Forest canal down 214ft towards Manchester. <br />
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The flight is spaced over a mile and is set in a combination of parkland, and built-up area. At the bottom of the locks, an aqueduct carries the canal over the River Goyt while next to it, this superb viaduct carries the railway.<br />
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The Peak Forest canal meandered its way through urbanisation as it skirted Greater Manchester, towards the junction at Ashton-Under-Lyne and Portland basin. At the junction, the Ashton canal heads South West into Manchester while the Huddersfield Narrow canal starts its journey East over the Pennines. We joined the Huddersfield Narrow canal and headed East.<br />
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<br />Winedownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07810679250079175437noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-270617978596328584.post-20628989571646371272015-06-02T11:48:00.000-07:002015-06-02T11:48:41.309-07:00Caldon Canal<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidZaBfgiaSCYUtowy3qCB0dtKqu42nfwRcPImvuoMp_SuEBo62HZY0auNb3WBpIHRSzxuiiW520cf3VebKDWdp6nFX7aHiBAsw1der4m0MeUUCvS2wdCw5MoqOejWgTSf0NYakID8K23AT/s1600/IMG_1683.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidZaBfgiaSCYUtowy3qCB0dtKqu42nfwRcPImvuoMp_SuEBo62HZY0auNb3WBpIHRSzxuiiW520cf3VebKDWdp6nFX7aHiBAsw1der4m0MeUUCvS2wdCw5MoqOejWgTSf0NYakID8K23AT/s320/IMG_1683.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aqueduct at Great Haywood Junction</td></tr>
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Leaving the excitement of Great Haywood behind the canal continues in a north westerly direction towards Stone and Stoke-On-Trent. It was a gentle run as the locks were broadly spaced and we enjoyed the tranquillity of the passing countryside. The canal wound it way through quiet meadows in the Trent valley and since it was so peaceful, we moored for the night before Stone, near Aston lock.<br />
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Stone clearly embraces, and has a strong association with the canal that passes through the town. There are good facilities (water, ablutions, elsan and rubbish disposal) close to the locks as well as shopping amenities. A replica portion of a working boat (the boatman cabin) is even used as a signpost where the canal meets the road network...<br />
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.."and at each end of the village limits is a welcome sign - for canal users!
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Passing through Stone, we meandered our way towards Stoke-On-Trent, the home of the potteries. We moored opposite the Wedgwood factory determined to spend a full day 'doing' the factory tour but sadly we found the factory and museum closed for refurbishment.
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So we continued on our way and just around the bend was the signpost for Stoke-On-Trent. This swan wasn't sure where he was either and as we rounded the corner it appeared as if he was reading the sign! Perhaps he was looking for a place to stop for the night or just looking for the address of his nest..<br />
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We wondered whether it was worth making our way down the Caldon branch of the Trent & Mersey canal but after a straw pole taken on the Narrowboat User Group on Facebook where it was highly recommended, we decided to go. I must admit, we were not disappointed.<br />
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The Caldon branch was built as an outlet for the peak district limestone quarries near Froghall and was originally opened in 1779. Almost two decades later the owners of the Trent & Mersey decided to build a secondary branch that terminated at Leek. Designed to provide a feeder from the new reservoir at Rudyard, the secondary branch joins the main branch at the summit, therefore negating the necessity for locks on that section. All things were stacking up to make this a good trip.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">James Brindely</td></tr>
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We turned onto the Caldon branch of the Trent & Mersey canal at Etruria top lock and moored opposite a statue of James Brindley. <br />
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But before that, while working our way through the Stoke flight, I was joined at the lock side by Rob, a local boy who happily gave us some valuable information with regard to mooring, facilities and shopping and by the time we moored at Etruria , he was on hand to help us tie up. Rob is apparently well known along the Trent & Mersey between Stoke-On-Trent and Barlaston. For the sheer love of the canal, he takes up his trusty windlass and helps out wherever he can. Thank you Rob!<br />
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The first few miles of the Caldon Branch are very industrial and we were advised not to stop between Etruria and Milton (four miles from the junction) it wasn't long before we saw the wisdom of that advice Although there was good mooring at Hanley, we continued on our way and once past Milton we were rewarded when urbanisation gave way to beautiful countryside known locally as Staffordshire's "Little Switzerland". We could have been in another world! <br />
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This contour canal, James Brindley's trademark design, hugs the hillside contour where possible rather than making use of bridges, aqueducts and locks. The benefit of this design is an extremely picturesque outlook. The downside is the many tight turns as it winds it way through the beautiful countryside. We had to take things very slowly.<br />
An added drawback to the Caldon canal is that the bottom was too close to the top (in other words the Caldon canal is quite shallow) but there must be worse things in life to worry about!<br />
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Mooring just short of Engine lock we had an amazing view from the swan hatch. In the evening the Canada Geese brought their goslings for our approval and in the morning we were greeted by a pony taking an early morning drink. Perfect!<br />
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At Hazelhurst locks the canal divides. The main line falls through three locks before following the Churnet River, while the secondary (Leek) branch follows the hillside contour before crossing over the main branch on a large aqueduct. Talk about spaghetti junction!<br />
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We followed the main branch and moored for the night close to the Flint Mill outside Cheddleton. Sadly, this superbly restored mill was closed (which was a little surprising since it was the start of the May Bank Holiday) but that didn't stop us taking a good look around before we walked into the village of Cheddleton. <br />
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Through Cheddleton, the canal side was dominated by a galvanised steel works until we reached the station on the edge of the village. The station, closed by the North Staffordshire Railway in 1988 was purchased by enthusiasts who re-opened the line in 1996 to run a steam-operated passenger train. This superb line, the Churnet Valley Railway, is operated between Leekbrook and Froghall by volunteers who are members of the North Staffordshire Railway.<br />
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We met up with friends Rob, Geri and daughter Lucy on Saturday morning (Ian's birthday). It has been a long time since we last saw the Howell family, Lucy was a little more than a baby and their elder daughter Becky was a teenager at the time. Little wonder we called Lucy "Becky" all weekend. sorry Lucy, will do better next time!<br />
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Before we set off down the canal we could hear the tooting of the steam train in the background. The theme was 'Barney Buffers' that weekend and I couldn't resist getting a photo of Barney although our granddaughter Hollie would probably tell me that he looks like Percy!
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A few miles down the canal in the beautiful Churnet Valley we moored near the Black Lion Pub at Consall Forge. As it was Geri's birthday a few days before, we had a double celebration so we indulged with a sumptuous meal at the pub and finished it off with a beautiful chocolate cake that our daughter Tanya and husband David had sent with Rob and Geri. The setting couldn't have been prettier.
Although I didn't get a photo of the steam train puffing its way through the valley, I did get this photo of an old diesel engine, crossing the canal at Consall Forge.<br />
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Sadly, Rob, Geri and Lucy had to return home on Sunday which made their time with us very short - not nearly enough time to show them how relaxing the canal system can really be. <br />
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However Monday was a holiday and the steam train was still running so we bought a day ticket and rode the tracks between Leekbrook and Frogall, hopping off at the various stations along the way and sampling cakes and scones in the tearooms of each station. Decadent but wonderful! <br />
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It was also lovely to see the canal boats from a different perspective, and we respectfully but regally waved to the canal boats as we steamed passed by on the train. <br />
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We finished Ian's birthday weekend with a bottle of bubbly (compliments of David and Tanya) on the front deck of 'Winedown' while watching the sun set over the valley.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">North Portal of the Leek branch</td></tr>
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Our next stop was Leek, where James Brindley originally set up a wheelwright business before he made a name for himself.
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James Brindley, an English engineer born in Tunstead, Derbyshire, lived much of his life in Leek, Staffordshire, becoming one of the most notable engineers of the 18th century.
At the age of 17, Brindley was apprenticed to a millwright in Sutton, Macclesfield and once he completed his apprenticeship he set up a wheelwright business in Leek. His abilities soon brought him to the attention of the Duke of Bridgewater who later commissioned Brindley as the consulting engineer to construct the Bridgewater canal.
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Brindley's reputation soon spread and he was commissioned to build more canals. In total, throughout his life he built 365 miles of canals, among which are the Staffordshire & Worcester, the Coventry and the Oxford canals, all of which we have travelled along and enjoyed in our time on the canals.
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We spent a few days in Leek and although Brindley is revered, we were a little disappointed that we couldn't get to the Brindley Water Museum and Watermill. We were also a little disappointed that we didn't see much evidence of the silk trade that originally put Leek on the map.
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Nevertheless, it was time to move on again so we pulled up the mooring pins and set off once more down the Leek branch of the Caldon contour canal <br />
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Passing through the locks at Stockton Brooks, it was interesting to see the stone masons marks on the cut-stone of the lock walls.<br />
Stone masons of the time were paid by the number of stones that they hand cut, therefore each has his own unique mark and these could still be clearly seen as the water flowed out of the lock and the boat was slowly lowered.<br />
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Besides the remains of the once splendid Victorian waterworks, and built in more recent times is this sculpture, depicting many elements that are iconic in Staffordshire and some that gave rise to this part of the canal network.<br />
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Remnants of the old limekilns; bolts from the railway tracks; picks used to build the canal and used in the nearby mines; and pottery from Wedgewood, Spode, Doulton and Moorcroft all sat alongside the iconic emblems of Staffordshire: An image of a spitfire, the iconic plane that contributed to the victory of World War II - honouring locally born Reginald Mitchell's design and the factory at Burslem; an image of birds, reflecting the unspoiled countryside, and the Stafford knot which was once used on the heraldic shield of Lord Stafford - 1583 - Stepfather to Henry Tudor (husband of Henry's mother Margaret Beaufort) and still appears today on many road signs, army berets, police badges, as well as pottery and football club crests.<br />
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On our return along the canal, we moored once again near Engine lock (so named because of a huge beam engine that used to be housed nearby to pump water from the mining works) and were amazed to see how quickly the goslings had grown in these ten short days.<br />
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<span id="goog_1838952592"></span><span id="goog_1838952593"><br /></span>In Stock-On-Trent once again, we turned our attention to the potteries and pottery museum. Since this unique city is affectionately known as The Potteries and with its rich industrial heritage, has claimed the title of World Capital of Ceramics, we found it hard to ignore. The skyline was once dominated by thousands of smoky bottle-shaped brick kilns used for firing pottery, Probably as many as four thousand would have been built in the pottery heyday, most of them have been demolished but the 47 that remain are now being preserved.<br />
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The Emma Bridgewater factory is alongside the Caldon canal, so we made that our first stop, however the shear number of potteries and factory shops make it impractical to try to visit them all.<br />
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We signed up for the factory tour at Emma Bridgewater and enjoyed a cup of tea in the café while we waited for the tour to start. The tour, which lasted nearly an hour, was very interesting and we were able to meet a number of the workers and watch the intricacies of hand painting some of the choice items. Unfortunately we were unable to take photos inside the decoration shop because they have already started their Christmas collection.<br />
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After the factory tour we walked to the Potteries Museum & Art Gallery and spent the rest of the day immersed in the history and heritage of the fascinating displays. The following day we picked up the ceramics trail once again and visited the Middleport factory as well as the Doulton and Wedgewood factory outlet before our weary feet dictated that we return to the boat, bringing an end to our Caldon Canal experience.<br />
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Winedownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07810679250079175437noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-270617978596328584.post-45425576112439079262015-05-27T11:00:00.001-07:002015-05-27T11:00:55.546-07:00Tixall WideTurning in a more northerly direction at Autherley Junction we found ourselves once more on the Staffordshire and Worcestershire canal heading towards Great Haywood. This northern stretch is a little over 20 miles with 12 locks and initially it touches the northern suburbs of Wolverhampton. As one might expect, it was heavily populated and not very pretty until we went under the M54 where the canal passed through pleasant farmland once again.<br />
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At Gailey Wharf we came across this Toll keeper's watchtower which just goes to show that you can always find a place of interest in the most unexpected places.<br />
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The next two days were largely uneventful as the navigation passed through a few populated areas and former heathland until Penkridge. North of Penkridge the canal followed a pleasant valley but the tranquillity was marred by the constant drone of the M6 motorway so it was with relief that we moored at Tixall Wide, just a half mile from the junction with the Trent & Mersey canal at Great Haywood.<br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Mooring here was plentiful when we arrived in the early afternoon but it is obviously a popular spot and in no time at all boats were moored bow to stern. This didn't spoil our outlook, however, nor did it spoil the tranquillity.</span><br />
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Tixall Wide is a delightful stretch of water that more resembles a lake than a canal and was built as such to appease the gentry of the time who did not want the view from Tixall Hall to be compromised by a canal - the industrial motorway of its time. Sadly, Tixall Hall no longer stands but the remarkable gatehouse, restored in the 1960's stands proudly and is now used as a holiday home. This Elizabethan gatehouse was built in 1580 when the architecture of Greece and Rome had become fashionable in England.<br />
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Walking, it appears is an integral part of narrowboating so Ian and I donned our glad rags (and sensible shoes) and set off to meet our friends, Lesley and Chris (on narrowboat Eleventh Heaven) for an evening of good food, fine wine and great company. It was a wonderful evening that, unfortunately, went by very quickly. In no time at all we parted company once again and our boats are now traveling in different directions: Until the next time...<br />
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Tixhall Gatehouse is not the only building of historical interest near Stafford. Since our narrow boating odyssey is partly about the historical trail, we felt compelled to visit the Shugborough Estate.<br />
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The history of the magnificent Shugborough Estate started as a modest family seat. The original manor formed part of the estate of the Bishop of Litchfield. But fate stepped in and due to the epic adventure on the high seas by the younger brother (Admiral George Anson) in 1739, which included the capture of a Spanish galleon carrying an enormous amount of gold and treasure, the fortunes of Shugborough naturally rose.<br />
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Over the centuries, The fortunes of Shugborough went through decline and rise 'till we see it as it is today. A part of the manor house was inhabited by the Earls of Litchfield right up to 2005 when the 5th Earl, Patrick Litchfield, the world renowned professional photographer met an untimely end. His son, Thomas, the 6th Earl of Litchfield gave over his claim on the estate to the National Trust and the Staffordshire County Council for the pleasure of future generations.</div>
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At the Shugborough Estate one can step into the 'upstairs downstairs' world of the fine mansion, explore the servants quarters and the Georgian farm and water mill all set in 900 acres of parkland, woodland, riverside and gardens.<br />
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We spent a happy day exploring the estate, starting with the working farm and water mill. This Georgian farm is a hive of activity and we were delighted to meet these tiny 'sausages-on-legs' just a few hours old...<br />
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...and the lambs in the field.</div>
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We met the cook in the working kitchen and the scullery maid at the farmhouse. The county museum showcased Staffordshire life across the ages and a day out is not complete without a cream tea in the tearoom at the farm granary. </div>
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All in all it was a day not to be missed. Well worth the walk from the canal and the reasonable admission charge.</div>
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The following day we decided to take a break from our very busy exploration and simply enjoyed the wildlife. The mooring at Tixall didn't have a time restriction so we stayed another day. </div>
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Although this area is well known for its kingfishers, we didn't spot any but we had plenty to see with the Canada geese, ducks and moorhens all bringing their young out to play.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The sun sets on another perfect day</td></tr>
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Winedownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07810679250079175437noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-270617978596328584.post-13471740691528310352015-05-15T06:18:00.001-07:002015-05-15T06:18:47.096-07:00As we leave the Shropshire Union...The forecast was for mixed weather as we set off, leaving Market Drayton behind. Full of enthusiasm, we expected to reach Gnosall before stopping for the day. We only had 5 locks to work on the Tyrley flight so we expected an easy day.<br />
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Well, one thing that I still haven't learned is that when things look easy, they usually turn pear-shape. And they truly went pear-shaped on Friday 8th May.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIO7VnICBipyfbc3l3h5RroJydM05uh48qio36CgJKa_wDCL9qdsxaJFoTEQoCUV2lce1ZCwa1zo8K-K2zB7FGJU_Km2FCzu9Y-eHDqnqKQKHSvEYI_5nV9amdSnfw-Zs9V7C_qZcbB-G2/s640/blogger-image-1296236264.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIO7VnICBipyfbc3l3h5RroJydM05uh48qio36CgJKa_wDCL9qdsxaJFoTEQoCUV2lce1ZCwa1zo8K-K2zB7FGJU_Km2FCzu9Y-eHDqnqKQKHSvEYI_5nV9amdSnfw-Zs9V7C_qZcbB-G2/s640/blogger-image-1296236264.jpg" /></a>We admired the cutting that led us to Tryley locks. This cutting was dug by the navvies using only pick axes shovels and wheelbarrows. Truly awesome.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzJYPlanCYNNkcDd1HBz6a6F21KjvjTtiDSscbNERopmVoOIhivCTo31KJXvrW-jtYe6Z6EzO7lxr6f-jpVEoXnYxxfLrnrLn3v4o0mdWos_nulUdgspSwpJgNYoIxwaqxu6IiZsX72xr_/s640/blogger-image-324332237.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzJYPlanCYNNkcDd1HBz6a6F21KjvjTtiDSscbNERopmVoOIhivCTo31KJXvrW-jtYe6Z6EzO7lxr6f-jpVEoXnYxxfLrnrLn3v4o0mdWos_nulUdgspSwpJgNYoIxwaqxu6IiZsX72xr_/s640/blogger-image-324332237.jpg" /></a>The tool marks can clearly been seen on the rock face.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF7RD-yHtu2nrjlM51-XXCz-pFT9och5HaEFpWrLHu_MPb5pssbd83uF2vFbdah1BxCOXQwiML2VCk6z9wQosCxlPNaCs3kdLK0uY7GpIAY0vK0PY2sHkio38r2pGYFkcIPcZfy7EjHkr2/s640/blogger-image--493089392.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF7RD-yHtu2nrjlM51-XXCz-pFT9och5HaEFpWrLHu_MPb5pssbd83uF2vFbdah1BxCOXQwiML2VCk6z9wQosCxlPNaCs3kdLK0uY7GpIAY0vK0PY2sHkio38r2pGYFkcIPcZfy7EjHkr2/s640/blogger-image--493089392.jpg" /></a>Then it was at lock 4 that we ran into trouble. The by-wash was particularly fierce and as I carefully lined up to go into the lock, the flow from the by-wash turned the bow aside. The forward momentum of the heavy boat carried me on but I was unable to counter the flow and enter the lock. In the blink of an eye, the flow had pinned me to the bank side of the cutting and no amount of engine revvs was going to release me. I should have remembered the warning of an old boater months before who had told us to open the top paddles a little and this flow would counter the by-wash flow, but that was furthest from my mind.</div>
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Ian then scrambled down the bank and hooked the bow line, hoping to haul the bow free of the lock wall. As he hauled on the bow line, I was trying to leaver the stern around while all the time running the engine at full throttle. All to no avail. A passing dog-walker offered his help and even with two men hauling on the bow line, the 18tons of boat still wouldn't budge. I threw the centre line across the canal for Ian to pick up and we tried again. The passer-by hauling on the bow line, Ian on the centre line and me on the stern with the aid of the full throttle engine. Slowly, inch by inch, we all made headway against the strong flow of water and Winedown nudged her way into the lock. My heart was pounding with adrenalin as the lock gates slammed shut behind me and the lock began to fill. I can only imagine how a single-hand boater would have felt in a similar situation - and there are many on the canal system. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOHxF07aipuaRryCqdY9ptAmAKHLt-QrCn03SUjHDu81H_UidRSQkAyHDv_4K5juyAepTcZElO_QL2Rnav7cQjhHs0G2WrhT8bJ9xNHxUKc3PWa7clzAaJaZgdMQDeHvaWWAp_OQSr6TNN/s1600/blogger-image--27926653.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOHxF07aipuaRryCqdY9ptAmAKHLt-QrCn03SUjHDu81H_UidRSQkAyHDv_4K5juyAepTcZElO_QL2Rnav7cQjhHs0G2WrhT8bJ9xNHxUKc3PWa7clzAaJaZgdMQDeHvaWWAp_OQSr6TNN/s640/blogger-image--27926653.jpg" style="cursor: move;" unselectable="on" /></a>Tranquillity was restored as Winedown rose higher in the lock, masking the dangers that lurk around corners. Looking back it appeared quite innocent!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeLvnB93ApeyGmCNW49iZPOG0ce4U0X4ase9T2nRA0E7EutLkDKTRowPpQTtSPhpa8LDub5h0gPHNqiubWpB4j1nwAwg9Dtk-_TYseihcyW9DvQVocQQElw24Xdn_8neemf6NRGEkhHByL/s640/blogger-image-1949851870.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeLvnB93ApeyGmCNW49iZPOG0ce4U0X4ase9T2nRA0E7EutLkDKTRowPpQTtSPhpa8LDub5h0gPHNqiubWpB4j1nwAwg9Dtk-_TYseihcyW9DvQVocQQElw24Xdn_8neemf6NRGEkhHByL/s640/blogger-image-1949851870.jpg" /></a>While the daffodil heads start to droop, signalling their exhaustion at the end of their flowering time, the bluebells are putting an appearance and some of the woods that fringe the canal are carpeted with purple. its a beautiful sight </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh05XJN4RyQqoHgX76BV9Jn1Il8Ac48QdI9m5Z5nqTtAWK1LLIXJHEFkojxuZ2HuxRNv3PPaNOVhrRfNcae2o5fQ-ti_dPenvrnojIFpICjMu3j89eKdC-qaf9famgdxgy3qBAxKNsHEBVZ/s640/blogger-image-1515488562.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh05XJN4RyQqoHgX76BV9Jn1Il8Ac48QdI9m5Z5nqTtAWK1LLIXJHEFkojxuZ2HuxRNv3PPaNOVhrRfNcae2o5fQ-ti_dPenvrnojIFpICjMu3j89eKdC-qaf9famgdxgy3qBAxKNsHEBVZ/s640/blogger-image-1515488562.jpg" /></a>Ferns unfold as they cling tenaciously to the bank side.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6K7IEYpICYbRW1KM8JBKiGMVIAxYcYycpWvtZQ3P-RJE-XN6PS_PXFeyReguazefVuLbV56FXUHnEczJXFtRoFsUHXkgMVt_mDiGo2ryYr1PWCFFOxYGzF9QRKk4fah-1GIvBMrOlhDmG/s640/blogger-image--1600230490.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6K7IEYpICYbRW1KM8JBKiGMVIAxYcYycpWvtZQ3P-RJE-XN6PS_PXFeyReguazefVuLbV56FXUHnEczJXFtRoFsUHXkgMVt_mDiGo2ryYr1PWCFFOxYGzF9QRKk4fah-1GIvBMrOlhDmG/s640/blogger-image--1600230490.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkXtM-EBs450cN208BzbdgeyaVXEkUx7_7erkoYSGqQoUvRxfiKg-9E2Q90E7eBFWlWJHZMuC5f5JfdQhukc8-Kmir_8Yf0m9FHXlOit86IauSMMFnzI6DqidfKkTpVuIA3FkLNpqaRHVR/s1600/blogger-image--770867550.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkXtM-EBs450cN208BzbdgeyaVXEkUx7_7erkoYSGqQoUvRxfiKg-9E2Q90E7eBFWlWJHZMuC5f5JfdQhukc8-Kmir_8Yf0m9FHXlOit86IauSMMFnzI6DqidfKkTpVuIA3FkLNpqaRHVR/s640/blogger-image--770867550.jpg" /></a>The Anchor Inn at Old Lee Wharf is a pub that is stuck somewhere in the 1940's with its rustic bench seats and open fireplaces. The friendly landlady will serve a selection of wine, draught beers (served from a jug brought up from the cellar) and spirits but the only food is a selection of sandwiches served on quaint mismatched plates. On the day of our visit we had a choice of sandwiches - cheese & pickle, cheese & tomato, cheese & onion or plain cheese. </div>
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But the company was good.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOCRtOHGAQGGjYEdmn2bItHMhkpaQh9U8mu0VIx6pv81vwKm4GELyge37jsoBQ36Te_ZyTMDS2a8bfJb7iMm9_Y21i3Q-7pxxQi-xHJTH_HyMaxEji5u2FDZy9R1Bj9KiLOjlZP6IdAGZT/s640/blogger-image-1970118633.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOCRtOHGAQGGjYEdmn2bItHMhkpaQh9U8mu0VIx6pv81vwKm4GELyge37jsoBQ36Te_ZyTMDS2a8bfJb7iMm9_Y21i3Q-7pxxQi-xHJTH_HyMaxEji5u2FDZy9R1Bj9KiLOjlZP6IdAGZT/s640/blogger-image-1970118633.jpg" /></a>We met Mal, a fender maker who has been plying his trade on the canals for many years before he retired. He still makes fenders but only just enough to keep him in beer money he said. We lingered over our lunchtime sustenance as we listened to his stories of days gone by.</div>
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The Shroppie is known for its unusual features but there can't be much to beat this high bridge with a telegraph pole built into its arch...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQLIac-ylE4mqrj1NNQw5PkW6RlGVM5v4KPvZA33fcXRM14nTXpGM7JyeG6Hc0Fp6VPoH6xBXU2Y9j-RE1Baj6k0MuhyPYwxL694lu5mEX7dEj1BN98CTz4ySiBcYzI3yqrpxtITvU3dnM/s640/blogger-image--1383915723.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQLIac-ylE4mqrj1NNQw5PkW6RlGVM5v4KPvZA33fcXRM14nTXpGM7JyeG6Hc0Fp6VPoH6xBXU2Y9j-RE1Baj6k0MuhyPYwxL694lu5mEX7dEj1BN98CTz4ySiBcYzI3yqrpxtITvU3dnM/s640/blogger-image--1383915723.jpg" /></a>Birdlife on the canal is abundant and Brewood is notorious for its kingfishers, although they are almost impossible to photograph while on the move. I had to be content with the heron. This fella is obvious used to boats passing its fishing area as it simple walked along the bank while glaring at us. By the time we had passed the heron obviously thought that since we had disturbed the water, he would look for a new spot to wait for the fish. </div>
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<img height="72" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOHxF07aipuaRryCqdY9ptAmAKHLt-QrCn03SUjHDu81H_UidRSQkAyHDv_4K5juyAepTcZElO_QL2Rnav7cQjhHs0G2WrhT8bJ9xNHxUKc3PWa7clzAaJaZgdMQDeHvaWWAp_OQSr6TNN/s640/blogger-image--27926653.jpg" style="left: 218px; opacity: 0.3; position: absolute; top: 1510px;" width="96" />Winedownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07810679250079175437noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-270617978596328584.post-22116854711042923042015-05-05T09:13:00.002-07:002015-05-05T09:15:33.988-07:002015 - We're off againAfter spending many weeks in March and April with routine maintenance and spring cleaning, it's time to leave the marina and set off again. Funny how quickly one can get institutionalised; even though a new adventure beckons, a part of us is almost reluctant to leave the safe haven of the marina.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBqnkiKqHIXcZ21d825Q93ZW0ayXrWDEM9_6uTO4EDuIH-4n7OPapW1RsgzDAgedjQRLVU49LJhKc7f9MI4kUio50GO8xJdqpnWbqcISfu8aZ__6HbXyhWuGLqGw9-hy7BqOqjV0YJ4J69/s640/blogger-image--1743709162.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBqnkiKqHIXcZ21d825Q93ZW0ayXrWDEM9_6uTO4EDuIH-4n7OPapW1RsgzDAgedjQRLVU49LJhKc7f9MI4kUio50GO8xJdqpnWbqcISfu8aZ__6HbXyhWuGLqGw9-hy7BqOqjV0YJ4J69/s640/blogger-image--1743709162.jpg" /></a></div>
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We had recently returned from spending the worst of the winter months in sunny Spain, just in time to watch the spring creep in.<br />
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We were amused and delighted by the antics of nature as the wildlife aggressively found and defended it's territory.<br />
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A pair of moorhens squabbled for a prime nesting position</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKCca4sZVd-C3qic5f815UaEP-1zhyphenhyphenwrj_hdknrw9RgKe_jFiztTiwfv0u5JfLNqud3LERkzy9P_ciMbOgKhN6TPvOBMO5T9uVeiFsvdR0W3lS9KVSrvYu8u_tmu2tOlmjjIPhW0lErzg-/s640/blogger-image--1602428095.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKCca4sZVd-C3qic5f815UaEP-1zhyphenhyphenwrj_hdknrw9RgKe_jFiztTiwfv0u5JfLNqud3LERkzy9P_ciMbOgKhN6TPvOBMO5T9uVeiFsvdR0W3lS9KVSrvYu8u_tmu2tOlmjjIPhW0lErzg-/s640/blogger-image--1602428095.jpg" /></a></div>
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The young swan trying to make itself look larger as it saw off the opposition </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-5Rw8rhFvHBb76ddnYwXUbdVqvDW8MN58XP2s03R7FEYU6ykUamztntcSea5JlTsTmstfhDVLs3aunQMWaLTHWzwhrlg16MsODHwck5XW7vFBzKLqUyd70281hSqHS0TMWjkNPKz5q6ke/s640/blogger-image-758550519.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-5Rw8rhFvHBb76ddnYwXUbdVqvDW8MN58XP2s03R7FEYU6ykUamztntcSea5JlTsTmstfhDVLs3aunQMWaLTHWzwhrlg16MsODHwck5XW7vFBzKLqUyd70281hSqHS0TMWjkNPKz5q6ke/s640/blogger-image-758550519.jpg" style="cursor: move;" unselectable="on" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvg2CDnYGtsHcp7zUPWL0jsF29lR0KiCIQW8O9CObmzGbHxy2RTUBbQLKJeiu_PEdqpAi2wStQc6DQIkIWapdjV-U98n6PamycPIzZIR7uI399o9MXk21rnl4Rq-eheV0z3RHJJofUUo74/s640/blogger-image--900223918.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvg2CDnYGtsHcp7zUPWL0jsF29lR0KiCIQW8O9CObmzGbHxy2RTUBbQLKJeiu_PEdqpAi2wStQc6DQIkIWapdjV-U98n6PamycPIzZIR7uI399o9MXk21rnl4Rq-eheV0z3RHJJofUUo74/s640/blogger-image--900223918.jpg" style="cursor: move;" unselectable="on" /></a><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Heron being mobbed by a pair of seagulls</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWnOp4xdun-9r_N8l4yBKML02pb8C4Ct3JvUm33dgzvpvSzoTXphM_dNbmGe1CCt3FLLZRIP-tZM9W4c4z24OLBFe50JH8_-OUbqJVtLJ3OdbQJ91IgYRdtrPi96XJDeA5w29YcOzkQb08/s640/blogger-image-212424991.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWnOp4xdun-9r_N8l4yBKML02pb8C4Ct3JvUm33dgzvpvSzoTXphM_dNbmGe1CCt3FLLZRIP-tZM9W4c4z24OLBFe50JH8_-OUbqJVtLJ3OdbQJ91IgYRdtrPi96XJDeA5w29YcOzkQb08/s640/blogger-image-212424991.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7rMkVgWu4bxI3qIMyf4zNHB8dW8-x735dQy4ESADYbJQdTlMVM_gbxYGxuDebI5wvg9VTOW3eJOk6JJoLw9cJi1GMAt-D3YmBFgBcB5kpTF3vqt2VcLBL3IKxApJo1gxkfMIcamF-sN4T/s640/blogger-image-1669012183.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7rMkVgWu4bxI3qIMyf4zNHB8dW8-x735dQy4ESADYbJQdTlMVM_gbxYGxuDebI5wvg9VTOW3eJOk6JJoLw9cJi1GMAt-D3YmBFgBcB5kpTF3vqt2VcLBL3IKxApJo1gxkfMIcamF-sN4T/s640/blogger-image-1669012183.jpg" /></a>So he found another spot to fish peacefully!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6R3301R0E4FMSjzIlLQTcxGohX7RrVKbe-VTYeuDV3XfboLWPK3XOaZyQdurOaIKzbRr-0H0GHSNah03McggHuI4kXf0liHASvzIiG4SFkkOhFDotuodzNKEvwTx_6JooZU2AzUrctdKx/s640/blogger-image--986869.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6R3301R0E4FMSjzIlLQTcxGohX7RrVKbe-VTYeuDV3XfboLWPK3XOaZyQdurOaIKzbRr-0H0GHSNah03McggHuI4kXf0liHASvzIiG4SFkkOhFDotuodzNKEvwTx_6JooZU2AzUrctdKx/s640/blogger-image--986869.jpg" /></a>Even this tenacious pansy celebrated the spring by blooming on the shingle edge of the car park.</div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil7Uw7gwXldi6K3c7C52CfR-L0eLyd5IVqslUgAAYkeXkvQPoDIYyd_LylzzOkF6cG9t75SfsOj_-zaZWFVRXxWJp2kmFSZ4YPq6LkpwSM-8HHe231ojPapwuUyzjeqllSK52UaKh2W_Tc/s640/blogger-image--869286600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil7Uw7gwXldi6K3c7C52CfR-L0eLyd5IVqslUgAAYkeXkvQPoDIYyd_LylzzOkF6cG9t75SfsOj_-zaZWFVRXxWJp2kmFSZ4YPq6LkpwSM-8HHe231ojPapwuUyzjeqllSK52UaKh2W_Tc/s640/blogger-image--869286600.jpg" /></a><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Winedown had been berthed at Overwater Marina near Audlem for the winter of 2014/2015 and I must say that it is certainly one of the nicest marinas we have visited. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Beside the normal ablution facilities, chandlery and office, this family-run marina has a workshop, to assist with engine servicing, hull blacking, repairs, boat safety examination to name but a few services; a handy laundry, very important when staying for an extended period of time; a coffee lounge, encourages boaters to meet and linger over coffee and an excellent selection of Debbie's home cooked cakes (and more); not to mention the lovely surrounding countryside for walks, and of course the friendly faces of other boaters. It is certainly worthy of a visit if you are in the area.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglc8nG7acy8CUP0NZ7_YIk5Xym13IOLQTaP56Q6TQifw8H07x1VX7ibSBlGttyw_RphMAdob-L_LcoodDr-gnCLBa4_KOIPFosEzEXjsbIkO5V3cn-t04WEQNz6UlIzRgOJP1Aixf7VPdW/s640/blogger-image-861144167.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglc8nG7acy8CUP0NZ7_YIk5Xym13IOLQTaP56Q6TQifw8H07x1VX7ibSBlGttyw_RphMAdob-L_LcoodDr-gnCLBa4_KOIPFosEzEXjsbIkO5V3cn-t04WEQNz6UlIzRgOJP1Aixf7VPdW/s640/blogger-image-861144167.jpg" /></a>Knit & Natter group meets on a Thursday afternoon at the Coffee Lounge. I must admit that from my point of view, I did more nattering than knitting</div>
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Bistro night is the first Friday of each month was always very popular.<br />
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Debbie and Vernon are the friendly faces behind the Coffee Lounge and either one of them was always on hand to make one feel welcome.<br />
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The pretty village of Audlem has a wide range of shops serving most needs. A regular bus service runs into the nearby towns of Nantwich, Whitchurch and Market Drayton. We were first drawn to the vibrant village when we passed through in the summer of 2014 and were made to feel very welcome when we moored at Overwater Marina for the winter, later that year. Sporting three fine pubs, two cafes and a deli café, as well as an excellent fish & chip shop not to mention the kebab shop, we found plenty of variety to tickle our pallet.</div>
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With Spring well established and summer on its way, the days are lengthening and sunsets over the marina can be quite spectacular, especially when the setting sun is reflected in the coffee lounge windows and the calm marina waters.</div>
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Just in time for the Easter Weekend, the Audlem Lass took to the waters. This little water taxi is crewed by a dedicated team of volunteers who take donations in support the RNLI. Operating every Saturday and Sunday (as well as bank holiday Monday) between April and October, the boat ferries passengers between the marina and the bottom of the Audlem flight of locks.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMdAt1sPKgX2l-zngm1pfb1_0a8iHkb34A762Cr9MpH7lfB1LTl12Ltk0fr0wVmSTDXxD_P_bxTiTiUOWu-r_k6UOAAeh5UJffrte8H7WLHPrvXY54psa2NhylTPgQEMycx1FyKlXEvKRs/s640/blogger-image-1865644863.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMdAt1sPKgX2l-zngm1pfb1_0a8iHkb34A762Cr9MpH7lfB1LTl12Ltk0fr0wVmSTDXxD_P_bxTiTiUOWu-r_k6UOAAeh5UJffrte8H7WLHPrvXY54psa2NhylTPgQEMycx1FyKlXEvKRs/s640/blogger-image-1865644863.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-5Rw8rhFvHBb76ddnYwXUbdVqvDW8MN58XP2s03R7FEYU6ykUamztntcSea5JlTsTmstfhDVLs3aunQMWaLTHWzwhrlg16MsODHwck5XW7vFBzKLqUyd70281hSqHS0TMWjkNPKz5q6ke/s1600/blogger-image-758550519.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="72" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-5Rw8rhFvHBb76ddnYwXUbdVqvDW8MN58XP2s03R7FEYU6ykUamztntcSea5JlTsTmstfhDVLs3aunQMWaLTHWzwhrlg16MsODHwck5XW7vFBzKLqUyd70281hSqHS0TMWjkNPKz5q6ke/s640/blogger-image-758550519.jpg" style="left: 134px; opacity: 0.3; position: absolute; top: 1013px;" width="96" /></a><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">At the end of the bank holiday weekend in early May2015 we said a fond farewell to all our new friends and the marina staff and set off along the Shropshire Union towards Autherley Junction.</span><br />
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Although this is backtracking a little, there are parts of the Four Counties ring that we havn't visited so we will go back to complete the ring before heading off to the Peak District.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQDp7nb9SBX08AyYhsIxgdCc_ms86le6jtHP7-XDoXEnZJT-Y8hBHLsEirVCbZTld9Mb2lwGupFKbm0WY3y2bSsCqB3MGo64_UwU9Zl1gZYzjFZ3Rx7MiXvui_8oDhjYXZUcA9dc7lMq_V/s640/blogger-image-1595405311.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQDp7nb9SBX08AyYhsIxgdCc_ms86le6jtHP7-XDoXEnZJT-Y8hBHLsEirVCbZTld9Mb2lwGupFKbm0WY3y2bSsCqB3MGo64_UwU9Zl1gZYzjFZ3Rx7MiXvui_8oDhjYXZUcA9dc7lMq_V/s640/blogger-image-1595405311.jpg" /></a></div>
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<img height="72" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvg2CDnYGtsHcp7zUPWL0jsF29lR0KiCIQW8O9CObmzGbHxy2RTUBbQLKJeiu_PEdqpAi2wStQc6DQIkIWapdjV-U98n6PamycPIzZIR7uI399o9MXk21rnl4Rq-eheV0z3RHJJofUUo74/s640/blogger-image--900223918.jpg" style="left: 499px; opacity: 0.3; position: absolute; top: 1246px;" width="96" />Winedownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07810679250079175437noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-270617978596328584.post-83178061885136418382014-09-18T10:31:00.000-07:002014-09-18T10:32:49.478-07:00Anderton Boat lift and the River WeaverThe Shropshire Union Canal joins the Trent and Mersey Canal at Middlewich. After enjoying quiet, rural stretches of canal it was quite a contrast to see the industrialisation surrounding this part of the Trent & Mersey. It certainly was a reminder to us that the canals were designed and built for industry and not with pleasure craft in mind as they are most commonly used for today.<br />
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The Trent & Mersey canal skirts the centre of the town of Middlewich and after navigating the first three narrow locks we found ourselves at a wide (14ft) lock alongside a busy pub. The Middlewich Big lock, as it is known, was to represent the the beginning of the wide, almost lock free navigation through to Preston nevertheless, the Croxton Aqueduct - less than half a mile away - had to be replaced and this was done with an 8ft 2inch wide steel structure. No wide beams along here then!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiphKIppbG_fmrdKTvfe4ancC4ydHG4K4rIFxPY2AHvHV0nXKJd2Ag9uvwy-9UeAZhWF0JwYD6oRNUPPkC8_WkbZllMYi01GkacM3rqG3rEdUi1t4sF8gCAeGjlKsG8i4tnfhUf7erF8I_U/s1600/IMG_0711.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiphKIppbG_fmrdKTvfe4ancC4ydHG4K4rIFxPY2AHvHV0nXKJd2Ag9uvwy-9UeAZhWF0JwYD6oRNUPPkC8_WkbZllMYi01GkacM3rqG3rEdUi1t4sF8gCAeGjlKsG8i4tnfhUf7erF8I_U/s1600/IMG_0711.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Other than to take on water at the waterpoint, we didn't stop, preferring instead to find a quieter location. Yet we still had quite a way to go to find such a mooring spot. Although we passed the idyllic beauty of Croxton Flash, and wound our way along the side of a hill as the canal follows the picturesque valley that the River Dane runs through, we found it difficult to moor. There are quiet moorings with picnic tables and BBQ facilities that were apparently created by the Broken Cross Boating Club, but predictably, these limited moorings were all full and it wasn't long before we found ourselves in the heavy industrial area on the outskirts of Northwich.<br />
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It wasn't 'till we had passed through Northwich with its heavily industrialised features and enormous ICI works that we found a suitable mooring spot for the night and that was only a mile and a half from the Anderton Boat Lift - the reason for this journey. Initially, my aunt and uncle were to accompany us on this leg of our trip but were unable to join us. I don't think they would have enjoyed this part of the trip at all.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoej5OKhJDcKI6dnrCk_qCSN0nNj4RJq03owOaimMImXc30CG-bVXK0WPHG3oxF_KAe86S9-DCdAu5HG7lVq-jRfgGSlGsnMmsFuMiqG9krGmxjAl6ax_k6f90rHFfsDFg_BCjbGyynBFG/s1600/_DSC0007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoej5OKhJDcKI6dnrCk_qCSN0nNj4RJq03owOaimMImXc30CG-bVXK0WPHG3oxF_KAe86S9-DCdAu5HG7lVq-jRfgGSlGsnMmsFuMiqG9krGmxjAl6ax_k6f90rHFfsDFg_BCjbGyynBFG/s1600/_DSC0007.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
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Having said that, we found the Anderton Boat Lift to be an incredible structure. Looking a little like an enormous steel spider hanging on the edge of the River Weaver, this amazing Victorian structure has had a troublesome past. It was initially built in 1875 to connect the Trent and Mersey Canal to the Weaver Navigation, 50ft below.<br />
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The concept is simple. There are two huge water tanks (caissons) each with watertight doors that carry boats up and down.<br />
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In 1908 The original hydraulic rams were replaced by counter-balancing weights and massive geared pulley wheels. The lift worked 'till 1983 when serious deterioration put a stop to it and it wasn't till its restoration and modification was completed in 2002 that it became operational again, once more using the hydraulic ram system.<br />
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We waited our turn at the top and finally experienced the thrill of this magnificent structure by mid-afternoon on Thursday 11<sup>th</sup> September. While we were waiting, we made use of the visitor centre to find out all we could about its history as well as enjoyed a coffee in the coffee shop while watching the trip-boat and other narrowboats making the passage that we were soon to make.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZJj_IYVhIm6tACKLDfCj5fqPeZxsKTq2V1RwOHXnxON2Wc9S0szbdAfNrfSaEHnK8ec-k8AKJkHPRz2PE_50zVPLZpjO9W9BFXELKf_5Kj5JiobrMfqdcHnJUOX_03kVv-T8sW2kHf79n/s1600/_DSC0045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZJj_IYVhIm6tACKLDfCj5fqPeZxsKTq2V1RwOHXnxON2Wc9S0szbdAfNrfSaEHnK8ec-k8AKJkHPRz2PE_50zVPLZpjO9W9BFXELKf_5Kj5JiobrMfqdcHnJUOX_03kVv-T8sW2kHf79n/s1600/_DSC0045.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
Once on the river weaver, we moored alongside the nature park just out of sight of the lift.The River Weaver has been straightened in places to make navigation easier for the industry that it served, namely the salt mining industry which has certainly left its mark. The mining subsidence has left lakes (known as 'Flashes') where the salty water is now home to coastal plants and a variety of bird life.<br />
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In contrast to the industry, steep-sided valleys along parts of the river are covered in woodland that is still untouched by human hands.<br />
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The river winds its way through Northwich and since we were in need of supplies, we headed for the town swing bridge where there is ample mooring as well as a sanitary station. We remained moored opposite the boatyard for a second day as there was a street market that we found to be extensive. By Sunday morning, I had had enough and wanted to find a quieter spot. Since we like to have our Sunday roast, I put the oven on and the delicious aroma of roast pork followed us along the river (the lock keeper at Dutton lock even commented on it).<br />
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By early afternoon we had found a lovely spot and the dinner was cooked to perfection. What a result!<br />
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We discovered that the lower part of the Weaver Navigation is the most picturesque and we were happy to moor for a few days at a spot known as 'Devils Garden'.<br />
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Nevertheless, we did take the navigation down to its end at Weston Point, passing the derelict lock to the abandoned Runcorn & Weston Canal before turning and running alongside the Manchester Ship Canal, back to Marsh Lock. There we stopped to take photographs but we didn't want to stay. It is overlooked by what Ian described as 'Machine City', miles and miles of heavy processing plant works. We knew there were prettier places to moor.<br />
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Returning to Devils Garden, we found that the mooring we had left earlier was still available so we hammered in the mooring pins and tied up securely in beautiful and tranquil surroundings once again.<br />
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Wanting to take the Boat Lift back to the Trent and Mersey canal
on Wednesday 17<sup>th</sup> September we left Devils Garden behind in the
early morning mist and had a lovely run up the river.
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Due to an impending boat festival, passage through the boat lift was limited and we wanted to get out of the way before we became entangled in it.<br />
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As it so happened, just as we were approaching the boat lift from the river, we saw that a narrowboat was entering one caisson and no other boat was waiting. Ian sounded his horn and we were waved right in. less than 30 minutes later we were once again on the Trent & Mersey canal, 50ft above the river Weaver.<br />
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From here we will return to Middlewich, take the Shropshire Union Middlewich branch to the Shroppie main line and on to the Llangollen Canal.<br />
<br />Winedownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07810679250079175437noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-270617978596328584.post-1588574330631615942014-09-18T06:20:00.000-07:002014-09-18T06:20:57.909-07:00Shropshire Union CanalA new month and a new canal! 1<sup>st</sup> August is my daughter's birthday and this year it coincided with the start of a new adventure. After a short Skype conversation to wish her a very happy birthday the previous evening (Rianna lives in New Zealand and they are 11 hours ahead of our time), I was filled with loving thoughts of her special day as we untied the mooring ropes and set off down the last stretch of the Staffs & Worces canal. Passing Aldersley Junction (where the Birmingham Canal joins the Staffordshire & Worcestershire Canal) we continued on to Autherley Junction, near Wolverhampton, which is marked by a big white bridge. We took the left turn and entered the stop lock; we were officially on the Shropshire Union Canal. The stop lock, with a fall of only 6 inches was insisted upon by the owners of the Staffs & Worces (in 1830) to prevent Thomas Telford's newer Shropshire Union Canal from stealing water from them.<br />
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The Shropshire Union Canal runs roughly northwards to Ellesmere Port, a distance of a little over 66 miles with 46 locks. The long embankments, cuttings and grand bridges are a mark of the railway age and allowed the canal to have fewer locks. This charmingly rural waterway is isolated for much of its length with stretches where there are no towns or villages for miles. It is from the Shroppie that the Llangollen and the Montgomery Canals branch off into Wales.<br />
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Shortly after leaving Autherley junction the canal entered a narrow cutting with barely enough room for one boat let along room for passing boats. Fortunately, we didn't meet another coming towards us! The canal opened up once again after bridge 5 revealing quiet countryside and we soon discovered that this seemed to be the signature of the Shroppie.<br />
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Unusual bridges and aqueducts are also a feature of the Shropshire Union Canal, as this balustraded bridge (10) illustrates.<br />
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The navigation continued through the wooded cutting towards Brewood (pronounced 'Brood') and as we approached the designated mooring the heavens opened marking our arrival with a deluge. We hastily moored up and battened down the hatches.<br />
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The name of the village Brewood is derived from the Celtic 'Bre' meaning Hill and given that and the village is situated at the top of a fairly steep, wooded cutting, 'Wood on the Hill' fits very well. After the rain stopped Ian and I set off to explore this delightful 'Wood on the Hill' village. As we wandered the quintessentially English village streets, a man slowed to keep pace with us. He asked if we were visiting - it was that obvious that we weren't local - and asked if there was anything we wished to know. He then told us briefly where we could find a butcher, deli, greengrocer, coffee shop etc. before he hurried on his way. How thoughtful!<br />
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The forecast for the following day was not good, but there was supposed to be a window of fair weather first thing, before the rain was expected to set in for the rest of the day. We needed to get to the next village (Wheaton Aston) where there is a sanitary station so that we could empty our loo cassette and we had only 3 miles and a lock to go. We set off early, hoping to catch the promised window of fair weather and had only gone the first mile before it started to rain, and not lightly either - typical! Needless to say, we were drenched before we arrived at our destination. I then decided to cook our Sunday roast dinner (although it was Saturday) to warm the boat and lift our spirits with comfort food. No sooner was lunch ready then the sky cleared and the sun shone brightly... for the rest of the day. Oh well, it was a delicious lunch, washed down with copious amounts of full-bodied red wine.<br />
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Note to Boaters.... Reasonable priced diesel can be obtained from Turners Garage at bridge 19 in Wheaton Aston. We found it almost 10p/l cheaper than most other suppliers.<br />
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The lock at Wheaton Aston marked the start of the 17 mile pound that was to take us almost to Market Drayton which we did over the next two days. There were so many kingfishers along that stretch of the canal that we became quite blasé when we saw another flash of iridescent blue, darting along just inches above the surface of the water.<br />
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I mentioned earlier that the Shroppie has some unusual features, well none more so than this high bridge with a telegraph pole built into its arch...<br />
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...and I couldn't help but be impressed by the deep rock cutting near Woodseave. This long cutting was worked entirely by men without the help of machinery. The shear magnitude of the work involved is quite awe inspiring.<br />
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We moored at Tyrley Wharf on Tuesday 5<sup>th </sup><br />
August saving the descent of the five Tyrley locks down into Market Drayton for the following day. We could hear the call of the kingfisher all around us and a visitor even perched on our tiller arm for a while - Beautiful.<br />
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Leaving Tyrley Wharf the following morning we set we began the flight of locks with enthusiasm. We hadn't worked a lock for a few days now but even so, the amateurish mistake that I made on the second lock was unforgivable. While waiting for the lock ahead to fill, I drifted too close to the lock side weir and managed to get the stern stuck on the brickwork. The lock gate opened but I couldn't move. Ian to the rescue. I handed him the helm and he took up the barge-pole to lever the boat off and after much grunting and grumbling he freed the boat however the pole then became stuck and he almost fell off the back of the boat as he tried to retrieve it. I stood on the lock side watching helpless (in hindsight, it was quite comical but I wasn't laughing at the time). A boat was waiting to come up through the lock and two more behind them, so we had no choice but to continue into the lock leaving the pole sticking out of the weir brickwork like a finger. The gentleman from the waiting boat promised to help us retrieve the pole as he went by - which he did. I never did get his name as I was too embarrassed to ask. By this time there was quite a queue of boats waiting to get through the flight of single locks and all because I was not paying attention!<br />
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I had to admit that after 16 years of boating, I was still stupid enough to make such a basic mistake. Will I ever live it down? Isn't it funny how our worst mistakes are always witnessed. Even the tree thought it was funny.<br />
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Moorings alongside the town of Market Drayton are plentiful, an open invitation to linger which we were happy to do. Although the town centre was a good walk from the canal it was well worth the effort. The lovely old black and white timber frame buildings are a delight, the best of which was the Tudor House hotel. We had to have a drink at the bar after a thirsty walk into the town (it would have been rude not to) and the chippy did the most delicious Fish & Chips which we enjoyed on Thursday evening - we couldn't wait till Friday.<br />
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Leaving Market Drayton behind, we headed for Audlem. We have booked a winter berth in the Overwater Marina just to the north of Audlem so we were keen to spend a few days exploring the surroundings. We were not disappointed. But again, I get ahead of myself - we had to work 11 of the 15 locks in the Audlem flight before we could moor for the evening - and what a splendid evening it was. The rose-pink sunset provided a tranquil welcome.<br />
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We spent a few days sampling the delights of Audlem and found the people to be very friendly, chatty and helpful (this seems to be the norm for this part of England).<br />
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Right alongside the canal we discovered Audlem Mill and once inside, Ian couldn't get me out. Set amongst the hoppers and chutes of the mill building we found a vast array of canal books, paintings, gifts and souvenirs. Now I have visited many book/gift shops but I was most impressed by Audlem Mill. And if that was not enough, a peek upstairs at the needlework section had Ian kicking his heels for a very long time! There was such a wide variety of almost anything you could think of.<br />
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On Monday 11<sup>th</sup> we moved on to Hack Green, the site of a former government-owned 'Secret Nuclear Bunker'. After decades of being hidden down narrow country lanes in the Cheshire farmlands the bunker was declassified and decommissioned and now this ugly concrete building is the 1999 Tourism Award winner. It is a disturbing tourist attraction to say the least and not one that you would want to take your grandchildren to. However, having said that, we did find it extremely interesting and thought provoking where the consequences of a nuclear war graphically displayed on posters and film.<br />
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With the disturbing scenes still resonating, we untied the mooring ropes and
progressed along the tranquil canal, drinking in the sunshine and thanking our
lucky stars that the bunker never had to be used. We worked the two locks and
navigated the three miles of canal that took us into Nantwich, by which time we had regained our sunny disposition.<br />
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Nantwich has been a prosperous town since Roman times and this is partly attributed to its salt springs. It was the country's main salt mining centre until the 19<sup>th</sup> century. Ian found a butcher that did a good pork pie so he was happy - Ian measures a town's accomplishments by its pork pie!<br />
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It was time to return 'South' and visit family and attend to the necessary medical appointments. We backtracked from Nantwich to Overwater Marina, packed up the boat, picked up a hired car and swapped the canal for the motorway. Although I love to visit the family (I take great delight in our lovely grandchildren), I find that after the first few days I long to return to Winedown, our 'home'. A week later we were back on the boat and navigating the canal through Nantwich once again. Bliss<br />
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This euphoria was short lived however. Soon after leaving Nantwich behind, my sister called for my help so I hastily packed a bag while Ian searched train times. I left Ian with the boat while I went off to help my sister and her fella on the farm. What a difference; one minute we were gently navigating a peaceful and relaxing canal and the next I was helping to milk cows, drive herds, fill livestock feed hoppers, bring in the straw-bales, bottle-feed abandoned kittens, etc. Phew! Give me the canal any time.<br />
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A week later, we were on our way again, enjoying the peace of the rural countryside - and enduring the occasional wafts of muck-spreading on the summer breeze.<br />
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These two fledgling swallows were waiting to be fed while we were taking on water at Calveley Bridge (104)<br />
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We were, by this time, only a few miles from Chester. Electing to moor on the outskirts of the city and take the bus proved to be a good call. We were able to leave the boat on a 48 hour mooring in Christleton (bridge 122) and the bus stop was just the other side of the bridge.<br />
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Chester the county town of Cheshire,lying on the River Dee close to the border with Wales is the largest settlement in Cheshire West. It was founded as a Roman fort in the year 79AD and its four main roads Eastgate, Northgate, Westgate and Bridge still follow routes laid out almost 2000 years ago.<br />
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Chester is proud of its Roman beginnings so we thought we should take a tour on foot following a 'Roman Soldier'. It was very informative and we found that this soldier certainly knew his stuff! Well worth the fiver that it cost us.<br />
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For the next two days we walked the streets as well as the walls of Chester. Similar to York, the city is surrounded by fortified walls and it was an enjoyable experience to walk them. Saturday (August 30<sup>th</sup>) was Race Day and that too was an experience. You just have to chuckle at the way people dress up for Race Day - young girls with heels so high that they found it difficult to walk on the ancient cobbles and their fellas perspiring in smart suits; and that was before the races started!<br />
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Having spent a few days moored in Christleton, it was time to move on again. We had just finished taking on fresh water at the water point and moved onto the lock operation when we were joined by narrowboat 'Eleventh Heaven' with Lesley at the helm. Unbeknown to any of us, this was to be the start of a very enjoyable week.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chris and Lesley</td></tr>
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We spent the next few hours together as we locked down into the basin at Chester where we would moor for the night (Les and Chris went on through the basin to moor in a more rural location) but it was clear that we all got along pretty well. And yes, I did think that Chris was a 'Grumpy Git when I first saw him, but he is quite a Teddy Bear actually with a wonderful sense of humour!<br />
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The basin in Chester is in the process of being redeveloped and with the building of apartments, there is also a new (little known) ablution facility opposite the boat yard. It was like having our own private en-suit, so I made the most of a really long hot shower before we set off the next morning (Monday, 1<sup>st</sup> September), heading north.<br />
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Ellesmere Port is just nine miles to the north of Chester Basin and we passed through some lovely countryside as the canal crossed the Wirral. The docks and basin at Ellesmere Port is where the Shropshire Union Canal meets the Manchester Ship Canal. Part of the Dock complex, including some of the warehouses now form part of the Boat Museum. Well worth the effort to get there. It was here that we met Les and Chris on Nb Eleventh Heaven again.<br />
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After spending the afternoon exploring the museum, Les invited us to join them for an excursion into Liverpool the following day. We readily agreed and on Tuesday morning we all boarded the train in Ellesmere Port bound for Liverpool.<br />
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Of course, one cannot visit Liverpool without following The Beatles Story so we bought tickets and 'did' the tour...<br />
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... but not before we had lunch overlooking the basin with the iconic Royal Liver Building in the background.<br />
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Back in Ellesmere Port we found a South African restaurant - believe it or not - and we all felt that we couldn't leave without having a typically South African meal, so we booked a table at Jabula for the following evening. We had a lovely South African meal washed down with a bottle of South African wine (complete with a South African fly - illegal immigrant? - that Chris found in the bottle). It was an exotic meal, probably not what I would have called 'Typically South African' but they did serve up some unusual fare. We found it a little on the pricey side and the wine could have been better since South Africa is a notable wine producer, but the company by far made up for it all.<br />
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Leaving Ellesmere Port behind, we followed nb Eleventh Heaven as we retraced our steps along the Shropshire Union Canal towards Chester.<br />
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One of Chester's attractions is her Zoo and as it happened, there was a signpost at bridge 134 indicating that the zoo was only 1/2 mile from the canal. There was plenty of mooring so we moored for the night and visited the zoo with Les and Chris on Friday 5<sup>th</sup> September.<br />
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Just a word of caution for any boater wishing to visit the zoo from the canal the entrance to the Zoo has been moved ... the sign points along the <b>road</b> to the old entrance which is about 1/2 mile from the canal. However, if you take the <b>bridal path</b> to the right of the road you will find the new entrance not more than a 1/2 from the canal.<br />
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Chester Zoo, opened in 1931, was the vision of George Mottershead who dreamed of a 'zoo without bars' and is now on of the UK's largest zoos. George took Carl Hagenbeck's idea for moats and ditches as an alternative to cage bars and extended their use throughout the zoo. There is currently a drama series on the television depicting the trials and tribulations of the Mottershead family as they struggled to open the zoo, so it was fitting that we visited it.<br />
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Ian and I like to have a traditional Sunday Lunch - naturally on a Sunday - as this marks the start of a new week. Chris and Les joined us at the Thomas Telford Warehouse situated in the Chester basin. This converted warehouse is now a popular pub and the food was very good.<br />
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After lunch, both boats set off again and we were faced with the Northgate Staircase locks, before we wound our way alongside the Chester city walls.<br />
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That Sunday proved to be a long day. The moorings in Christleton were all full so we were unable to moor there as intended. we were obliged to continue on our way and it wasn't till we reached Crows Nest Bridge (113) that we were able to find suitable mooring for the night. After a full Sunday lunch accompanied by wine, a five hour stretch was the last thing any of us wanted. Hay-Ho that's boating for you!<br />
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We parted company with Chris and Les at Barbridge Junction where the Middlewich branch of the Shropshire Union canal turns East. We turned towards Middlewich while Nb Eleventh Heaven continued down the main line towards Market Drayton.<br />
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The Middlewich branch of the Shropshire Union Canal is an attractive stretch of rural canal passing through quiet and remote countryside. This rich farmland is interspersed with woods.<br />
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On Chris's advice, we chose to moor near bridge 22 where we were rewarded with splendid views over the River Weaver and the Winsford Top Flash. While the views were superb, we found that the West Coast Main railway line was a noisy and unwelcome intrusion into the tranquillity. In addition, the local farmer was muck-spreading so we decided to move on after only one night.<br />
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Continuing on Wednesday 10<sup>th</sup> September, we only had a little over two miles of the Shropshire Union Canal to navigate which included descended the two locks before joining the Trent & Mersey Canal in Middlewich.<br />
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We have really enjoyed our time on the Shroppie, finding it to be charmingly rural with few locks and many glorious views over open countryside.When we have stopped near villages, we have found the people to be very friendly and helpful. In addition, we have been very lucky with the weather. Although we have had some overcast days, by and large it has been a wonderful time with blue skies and at times wall to wall sunshine.Winedownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07810679250079175437noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-270617978596328584.post-58559464160835686992014-07-31T06:34:00.000-07:002014-07-31T06:34:03.923-07:00Staffordshire & Worcestershire Canal<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We had overstayed our 5 day mooring in Stourport so after a wonderful week with friends it was certainly time to move on. With the sounds of Dryftwood, Folk Fusion still ringing in our ears from the previous night's entertainment, we reluctantly untied mooring ropes and set off.<br />
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Some repairs had to be done to the boat's cratch canopy and Ian had made arrangements to pop into Wilson's in Kinver to have it mended on Monday 21<sup>st</sup> July. We had 10 miles and seven locks to do in the day so it was a relatively easy day. The navigation moved steadily through the town of Stourport and before long it emerged into the country following the west side of a valley; however our progress was partially blocked by a fallen tree.Ian managed to break off some of the protruding branches to give us sufficient space to pass and then we were on our way again.
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There was some smart new development as we entered Kidderminster and a little further on the canal crept under a town centre roundabout only to emerge at Kidderminster lock overlooked by a lovely church. What a contrast in a matter of a few yards! <br />
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The day that had been overcast, brightened, and all too soon the bright sun was beating down as we left Kidderminster and emerged once more into the countryside. The
navigation then becomes more tortuous and narrow as it was forced into endless
diversions by steep cliffs of red sandstone. <br />
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Beyond the Cookley tunnel the navigation emerged once again into countryside as it made its way to Kinver. The visitors mooring are on the south side of Kinver lock but we had to go through the lock in order to fill up with water. This was inconvenient as above the lock is only long term mooring. After taking on water we were faced with the prospect of reversing back down the canal and through the lock. A local man then told us that between the lock operation and the water point there is mooring reserved for a trip boat that was no longer around and that sometimes visitor boats moor there. That solved our problem; we cheekily used this trip boat mooring for the night. Wilsons, the canopy people were alongside the lock and we didn’t want to move off too far.<br />
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On Monday, after dropping off the canopy for repairs, we worked one more lock (Hyde lock) and moored at a lovely location known locally as ‘The Beeches’. No sooner had we tied the mooring ropes when Wilson's phoned to say that the canopy was ready for collection, so we walked the mile back down the canal to collect it.<br />
Later that afternoon we met Gail and John on NB Far Call and enjoyed a rather boozy afternoon and evening with them.<br />
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Tuesday morning was a beautiful morning. The sun peeped over the hill and shone through the mist that was rising from the canal. We could hear sheep in the field calling to one another just to complete this idyllic picture. It was breath-taking and a small reminder of what we love so much about our nomadic lifestyle.<br />
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Later that day was not so glamorous. We entered a very crowded Ashwood Marina where we would leave the boat for 2 nights while we went to Reading for doctor appointments. We were surprised to find that even though we had phoned and book a slot well in advance, we were not even given a proper mooring but rather stuffed between other moored boats and that meant that not only did we have difficulty getting on and off the boat but we didn't even have the option of an electrical hook up. Oh well, it was only for 2 nights and we did have the 'feel safe' factor when we left the boat.<br />
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A few days later, after having done a little shopping and returning the hire car, it was mid-afternoon before we were ready to leave the marina. We were not happy to find that we had to return to Kinver as we had discovered another problem with the canopy. To make matters worse, it was only when we wanted to turn to re-trace our steps that we realised there was nowhere to turn the boat around. The marina was so overcrowded that the turning point had been stuffed with moored boats. We had to reverse out of the marina and then continue north for a little over a mile (and another lock) before we could turn and come back. Although it was only 5 locks and 4 miles back to Kinver, the day was hot and humid and we felt little inclined to go very far so we chose to stop at a lovely spot close to bridge 34, Prestwood bridge, and have a BBQ. We thought that we would easily complete those few miles and locks the following day. <br />
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Best laid plans… we set off for Kinver shortly after 8 o’clock and had only gone half a mile when we rounded a tight turn aptly called ‘Devil’s Den’. Coming in the opposite direction was a hire-boat that had passed us earlier. The lady waved frantically and called out to us as we came alongside. She told us that a tree had come down in the night and had completely blocked the canal less than a mile further on. Well, we were well and truly stuck. The point where they turned was not a winding hole and they were considerably shorter than we were so we couldn't follow suit. We had no choice but to moor up and wait. Canal & River Trust officials were already at the tree by the time we reached it but the huge oak needed specialist equipment to move it. The bad news was the tree couldn't be moved for another day or so. We just had to be patient. Undeterred, we folded the canopy into our shopping trolley and walked the two miles along the towpath to Kinver. <br />
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We had been told about the rock cottages on the outskirts of Kinver and since we now had time on our hands, we set off to find them. It was well worth the additional 3 miles that we had to go and we did have all day! However, the canopy had been finished while we had a cup of coffee so we folded it back into the trolley and dragged it up the steep hill to the rock cottages – not such a good idea as it was extremely hot and humid. Nevertheless, we were well rewarded for our efforts and spent a few hours steeped in the history of the cottages before trundling back down the hill and along the towpath to the boat.<br />
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It is thought that the rock cottages were the inspiration for Tolkien’s hobbit hole in ‘Lord of the Rings’. No-one is quite sure who first carved out the sandstone cliffs to create weatherproof homes and there is no evidence to suggest that they were prehistoric but there is an early iron-age hill fort situated only 150m further along the ridge that dates back to 200BC.<br />
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In 1777 a traveller by the name of Joseph Healey discovered the cottages after he had been caught in a thunderstorm while walking on the sandstone ridge. He was offered shelter which he accepted and later described the dwellings as "<i>curious, warm and commodious and the garden extremely pretty</i>." <br />
There are many similarities between the Kinver Rock Cottages and Tolkien’s description of the Hobbit hole that it became an obvious assumption that he must have visited
these remarkable dwellings that were still inhabited until the 1960s. Well whether he did or not, we thoroughly enjoyed our exploration.<br />
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Saturday proved to be another interesting day as we watched the fallen tree being cut up and dragged up the steep slope to clear the canal. The contractors brought in two 20 ton winches attached to ex-army vehicles that were once used to drag tanks out of quagmires.<br />
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Work began shortly after 8 o’clock and the poor workman had a captive (and critical) audience. By this time there were more than 30 boats that were held up by the blockage and this equated to quite a curious crowd. No pressure then! <br />
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To make their task more difficult a bee’s nest was discovered in the fallen tree. Geoff, one of the contractors was stung by an angry bee as he cut through the huge trunk of the oak tree.<br />
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The enormous root ball had to be supported to stop it sliding into the canal and then the tree was cut in half. It was a bit like watching someone cut off a branch of a tree while sitting on it. The contractor (Geoff) had to stand on the trunk while he cut through it with a chainsaw. We all held our breath as the trunk split in two and fortunately, Geoff retained his balance! Still supporting the root ball, the severed trunk was hauled around again (almost as if it was being re-planted) so that it could be dragged up the steep embankment. Next, the top of the tree was dragged back across the canal before it followed its bottom half up the slope. Neatly done!<br />
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By early afternoon, the canal was clear and boats had started to move again. Since we had arranged that we would meet up with Geoff, Lynn and James on the Sunday and the
canopy had in the meantime been sorted out, we were in no particular hurry to go anywhere. We moved on through the now cleared canal and moored only a few hundred yards along at Stourton Junction. We were certainly glad that we hadn't got caught up in the 'Log jam' of boats all trying to get through the single locks!<br />
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Sunday, after meeting the Booth family, we worked our way up the beautiful Stourbridge canal and branched off at the Stourbridge town arm, turning at the end almost in Stourbridge town centre. After a short walk we found that the Talbot Hotel was doing a Sunday Carvery - perfect - and they had an available table! We had a lovely
lunch before returned to the boat, giving the Booth family (and us)a really
relaxing day. <br />
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Monday 28<sup>th</sup> we untied the mooring ropes and continued our northerly course along the canal. This time we got as far as the Bratches. We passed through some lovely countryside before the navigation was flanked by the neatly trimmed gardens of Swindon, (Staffordshire) then on into rural countryside again before passing through the modern outskirts of Wolmbourn. <br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtQfNJ8u7yauYkkoL27z6lYknr3-QG767B9EIuzhTssi-psCDRteOBX5gqEG98_kNF71wQMp__kYkmaQRUHi5mbwvAuMFCBLydCKCqWlcNwVsY71VdKtXULpJqml0yi0Z4-1t9FfafcdYc/s1600/bratch+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtQfNJ8u7yauYkkoL27z6lYknr3-QG767B9EIuzhTssi-psCDRteOBX5gqEG98_kNF71wQMp__kYkmaQRUHi5mbwvAuMFCBLydCKCqWlcNwVsY71VdKtXULpJqml0yi0Z4-1t9FfafcdYc/s1600/bratch+1.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bratch locks</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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We found lovely visitor mooring before the Bratch locks so we decided to end the day right there. Sometime later we were invited for an evening drink with Judy and Roger aboard NB Gabriel Oak, moored in front of us. This lovely couple (a little older than us) spend half of the year in Cape Town and the other half divided between their London home, their Guernsey home and their narrowboat. How the other half live!<br />
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The following morning, Judy and Roger set off fairly early, wanting to get through the set of three locks as soon as the lock keeper came on duty. We chose to explore the village and moved off in the early afternoon.<br />
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Once again, we didn't get very far. The countryside opened out above the set of locks giving lovely vistas all round. it was too good to pass up so we decided to say for a little longer and only move off the following day. It
gave me time to write postcards and catch up on my blog while Ian planned our
winter holiday in Spain.<br />
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What a tough life we lead!Winedownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07810679250079175437noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-270617978596328584.post-58005115867537100852014-07-29T10:16:00.002-07:002014-07-29T10:16:51.171-07:00Stourport-Upon-SevernWe spent a week in Stourport engaged in numerous activities, the first of which was a wonderful Sunday lunch cooked by Lynn and enjoyed in their home. James was at home having recently graduated from University but the exuberant Rosie was tied up with her part time job at the nearby Safari Park. It wasn't until much later that we had the pleasure of her company.<br />
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The next memorable activity was the Crooked House. Having reversed the boat through
the York Street lock and returned to the basin to take on fresh water and top
up with fuel, Geoff found us engaged in this mundane activity. He suggested a ride (by car) to a place called the Crooked House that stands in an isolated position near Himley between Dudley and Telford. The name and distinctive appearance of this pub are the result of 19<sup>th</sup> century mining subsidence with one side now almost
four feet lower than the other.<br />
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The crooked house, originally a farm house was built in 1765. In 1940 it was condemned
and scheduled for demolition before it was rescued by the Wolverhampton and
Dudley Breweries who made the structure safe by using buttresses and girders to
retain its lopsided appearance.The buildings leaning walls give rise to some wonderful optical illusions that include glasses slowly sliding across a seemly level table and a marble that appears
to roll uphill. <br />
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We enjoyed a tasty lunch in the rustic lounge and then attempted to put the world
to right (or even the pub) by enjoying more glasses of beer/wine than were good
for us.<br />
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Thursday 17<sup>th</sup> was another gorgeous day and was forecasted to be the hottest
day of the year so far. What started out as a stroll in the park alongside the
river turned out to be an 8 mile round trip to Bewdley. We were so enchanted
with the romantic scenery, we just kept on walking. In Bewdley, we found a
hostelry alongside the river and while munching on a sandwich, washed down with
a cider we lazed in the sunshine watching the rowing boats skimming along the
water. The only down side was the blisters caused by inappropriate strappy sandals.
Well, I hadn’t <i>planned</i> to walk 8
miles! <br />
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Friday evening, we were treated to a performance by Unknown First (a female fronted
hard rock band) in Kidderminster. Rosie, following in her father’s footsteps as
an entertainer, is the female in this band. Lynn and James collected us at the
boat after dinner and took us to the venue. Ian commentated on the number of
parents that attended. Each member of the band was well supported by family
(young and older) and that led him to comment that ‘in my day, my parents wouldn’t
have been seen dead at one of my gigs’ How times change. <br />
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The following evening was ‘father’s’ turn. Dryftwood, Folk Fusion, a band of four talented musicians – of which Geoff is a member – were performing at Wilden Church to raise funds for Kidderminster food bank and church funds. We were treated to performances using a myriad of instruments that included bozouki, guitar, keyboard, kazoo, lute, banjo, drums and cabassa to name but a few and vocals by all four band members, namely Paul Danby, Geoff Booth, Kevin Hastie and of course, the lovely Liz Summer (Smith).<br />
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After a very full week, it was time to move on. We left Stourport with some wonderful
memories and set off for a new adventure along the Staffordshire and
Worcestershire canal.
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<br />Winedownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07810679250079175437noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-270617978596328584.post-59107852410315688912014-07-29T07:51:00.001-07:002014-07-29T07:51:39.678-07:00River Severn to StourportThe lock keeper comes on duty at 8:00 am and we wanted to leave Gloucester Docks as soon after that as we could.<br />
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While preparing to leave Ian noticed that the English Holiday Cruise vessel the 'Edward Elgar' was also preparing to leave and sure enough it started to manoeuvre at exactly 8:00, casting off its mooring lines, it smoothly edged into position near the lock gates. We watched her through the lock before we slipped our mooring lines and queued with four other narrowboats waiting for the lock to fill. In the meantime we had ordered a 'Breakfast Toastie' from the café so we had a hot toasted sandwich filled with scrumptious egg, bacon and mushrooms to munch on. What a perfect way to start the day and to start another leg of our trip.<br />
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The canalised River Severn from Gloucester is a narrow length of river hemmed in by high banks. There was little to see as we made out way to the 'Upper Parting' the point 2 miles upstream where the tidal west channel meets the navigable east channel. After the 'Upper Partings' travelling northwards, the river widened, but still the high banks afforded limited views and this characteristic changes very little all the way to Stourport.<br />
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Unlike the River Thames, there are few places to moor along the 13 mile stretch between Gloucester Dock and the first lock, Upper Lode Lock' and with little to see, I had time to play a little with my camera. The wildlife wasn't disappointing. We even saw an otter as it crossed the river in front of the boat. Ian is still sceptical but the mammal that swam in front of us was too big to be ratty! Unfortunately, my camera wasn't to hand at that point, so I don't have photographic evidence. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZNzCwATmz2K7ke2VQsb4jcCzcUgFxt13v3gR36B5vcKeP8GqdlEMmsHmh5-TYJ1ijK_2JMD6tOGCTlMkInPEiun5ZvHQBkKJyaGtvr0Lz4hxpO1H9KKe42ZG0dxzLtSSpFfcuVtRVElQH/s1600/Myth+Bridge+1828.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZNzCwATmz2K7ke2VQsb4jcCzcUgFxt13v3gR36B5vcKeP8GqdlEMmsHmh5-TYJ1ijK_2JMD6tOGCTlMkInPEiun5ZvHQBkKJyaGtvr0Lz4hxpO1H9KKe42ZG0dxzLtSSpFfcuVtRVElQH/s1600/Myth+Bridge+1828.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Single span (170ft) cast iron bridge - Mythe Bridge</td></tr>
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We made good time as Winedown chugged along upstream. Doing a merry 4 mph we arrived at Upper Lode lock just a little over 3 hours after leaving Gloucester. It was quite surprising how little traffic there was on the river for such a beautiful day. Two of the other four narrowboats turned towards Tewksbury while we continued on, under the Mythe bridge (built by Thomas Telford in 1828) and then we were on to Upton-On-Severn, our destination for the day.<br />
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There are few bridges connecting the west bank to the east bank of the the River Severn, between Gloucester and Worcester so when you do see one as awe-inspiring as the Mythe bridge, it is worth a mention.<br />
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Upton-On-Severn is a small town in the Malvern Hills District of Worcestershire and the bridge that crosses the river is the only one between Worcester and Tewksbury. This quaint town is steeped in history and was well worth the two days that we spent there. We could easily have stayed longer but public mooring is scarce and mooring in the marina is expensive and don't be fooled by the navigational notes in the Nicholson's guide that indicates there is free mooring to be had in the marina. We did have the appropriate voucher but the marina will tell you that it only applies to coastal vessels only - in the inland waterways??? Oh well, they did give us one extra night for good will so we made the most of our exploration and enjoyed our stay in this very friendly town.<br />
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Laundry all done, batteries fully charged, water tank full; it was time to move on. Next stop was Worcester but before that we enjoyed 10 miles of scenic river views A scattering of bungalows and a caravan site or two were all that interrupted this tranquil stretch of the river, and while looking back, the Malvern hills completed the picture by framing the landscape.<br />
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Passing the Severn Motor Yacht Club, we knew were were not far from Worcester. It was almost as if the lavish gin palaces, majestically lined up, were a taste of what was to come. Leaving the grand boats behind, we passed under the road bridge and on into Diglis lock. As the lock filled, the cathedral came into view,the huge square tower commanding centre stage.<br />
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The imposing Worcester Cathedral dates back to 1074 and five
subsequent centuries have added their representation of architecture, resulting
in some fine monuments and stained glass. One such monument is the tomb of King
John dating back to 1216. Carved out of Purbeck marble, this is the oldest
royal effigy in England and can be found in the chancel of the cathedral. King
John was of course most noted for agreeing to the Magna Carta, a charter of
demands made by John’s rebellious barons. This was the first grant by an
English monarch to set detailed limits on his all encompassing royal authority giving rise to the formation of our parliament.<br />
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Two miles past Diglis lock, mooring can be found near the
racecourse and this is where we chose to spend the night. (Just a note for any
who may want internet connectivity or even a good TV signal, neither is
available) Once moored, we settled down to enjoy the surroundings and watch
passing craft on the river. Later in the evening a hot-air balloon lifted off
from the racecourse and drifted lazily overhead, gliding silently on the prevailing
summer breeze.
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mooring near the racecourse in Worcester</td></tr>
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We had arranged to meet our friends Geoff and Lynn Booth in Stourport on Saturday 12<sup>th</sup> July. The Booth family live in Stourport and we had promised that when we meander along their neck of the woods we would be sure to look them up. Geoff joined us Lincomb Lock and travelled with us for the last mile of the River Severn. The pretty Lincomb Lock is the northernmost lock on the River Severn.<br />
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Geoff pointed out old landmarks such as the Redstone Rock, a
crumbling outcrop of red sandstone that was still inhabited until that late
1960s; and the abandoned oil wharves, now frequented by the occasional
fisherman, then it was on into the Stourport basins. We had two 2-step
staircase locks to navigate, the first joined the basins to the river and the second joined two of the four basins. We moved
on through the basins and found a slot in the 5 day mooring on the Staffs &
Worcs canal before spending an extremely convivial afternoon with Geoff and
family watching the comings and goings along the River Severn.
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<br />Winedownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07810679250079175437noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-270617978596328584.post-49757263538549049032014-07-18T09:52:00.001-07:002014-07-18T09:52:25.613-07:00Tewksbury to Gloucester and Gloucester & Sharpness canalWith the necessity of medical appointments, we had left the boat in Tewksbury marina for a few days. It was a lovely break away from Winedown but after a very short time, I was longing for the freedom of the canals and river again. After
returning the hire car on Thursday (26<sup>th</sup>) we prepared the boat for the next adventure –filled up with
water, fuel etc. got laundry done and boat cleaned. It
was shortly before 12:00 noon that we left Tewksbury marina and entered the
Avon lock. This marked the end of our time on the River Avon, and to mark our passing, it started to drizzle just as we were ready to leave the lock. The lock gates opened, the lockie gave us
a cheerful wave and we were on to the River Severn, the huge lock gates
clanged ominously as they closed behind us. By
the time we got to Upper Lode lock, the rain was pelting down and I was starting
to regret that we hadn't delayed our trip for another day.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Upper Lode Lock on River Severn</td></tr>
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Upper Lode Lock was overwhelming. We felt so tiny and
insecure as we held our bow and stern ropes and the lock emptied. The enormous
lock gates opened (well this part of the River Severn was a shipping lane in
days gone by so enormous locks were a requirement) and we ventured out onto the
river. Almost at once, the rain stopped and the sun shone through, immediately
melting away my anxiety. The rest of the trip from Tewksbury to Gloucester was
a doddle, and we arrived at Gloucester Lock just 3 hours later. The lock keeper
asked us to wait in the lock for a norrowboat behind to catch up and while we waited,
an ominous black cloud covered the sun. Narrowboat ‘The Lucy Locket’ tied up
alongside us, the lock gates slammed shut and the lock began to gently fill.
With that the heavens opened and the rain lashed down. There was nothing we
could do but to endure the downpour.The
rain seemed to find its way down my neck and in a matter of minutes, I was
soaked through; It was as if my wet-weather gear was made of fine silk. My saturated
clothes clung to my body as if painted on, and I in turn hung on to the bow
rope and determinedly gritted my teeth. The lock gates swung open and we found
ourselves in the Dock basin and scrambled for a mooring. No sooner had we
moored then the fickle sun shone down again. One good thing about having an air
cooled engine is that the engine room was nice and warm and it didn't take long
for our clothes to be dry again.<o:p></o:p><br />
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We spent two day in Gloucester Docks and that proved quite expensive. Some of the old warehouses have been converted into an outlet centre and that is always bad news for us. we can never resist a bargain - even if we don't<i> really</i> need the item. consequently, we spend far too much. on the brighter side... in order to put our new purchases away, we had to clear out a lot of older stuff, so the charity shops benefited.<br />
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While we were enjoying a cuppa in a lovely coffee shop, Ian's cousin John called. He had been following us on Facebook and realised that we were quite close to one another for a change - John spends a lot of his time in France - and so it was that we were able to meet up for Sunday Lunch.<br />
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Leaving Gloucester behind on Sunday morning, we went the eight easy miles down the Gloucester & Sharpness canal to Saul Junction and met John in the Bell Inn at Frampton-On-Severn. It must have been 10 years since the cousins had seen each other so you can imagine, they had a lot to talk about!<br />
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Monday 30<sup>th</sup> June we continued down the Gloucester & Sharpness canal to Sharpness. What a beautiful place to be!<br />
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Sharpness Docks began as a basin giving access from the River Severn Estuary to the Gloucester & Sharpness canal where shipping traffic could then proceed to Gloucester Docks. With increasingly larger ships, the size of the old docks had its drawbacks and a new floating dock was opened in 1874 just south of the old docks. Today, a marina operates on the edge of the old docks site.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">14 day free mooring near Sharpness</td></tr>
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We moored about 1/4 mile before the marina and the scenery was breathtaking.<br />
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The public mooring allows for up to 14 days free, however, there is not much to see and do in Sharpness so it is an ideal spot for a total escape and a springboard for beautiful walks.<br />
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The 'New' sharpness docks are working docks so access is limited, however we did manage to get a peek at some of the activity. The most bazaar picture was this burned out 'Gin Palace' complete with its very own helicopter.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Site of the old railway bridge north of Sharpness</td></tr>
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The remoteness of Sharpness includes that lack of internet connectivity and I had promised Tanya (my daughter) that I would publicise (via a blog) her progress on the 4 Peaks Challenge (more about that later). Sadly we had to return to Saul Junction in order to fulfil my promise.<br />
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Saul Junction is where the Gloucester & Sharpness Canal meets the rural Stroudwater Canal, once an important junction. The Stroudwater Canal brought coal from the Midlands to the cloth mills in the Stroud Valley, while the Gloucester & Sharpness Canal was built for ocean-going ships. Saul Junction became the meeting place for ships & crew, boats & boaters and cargo from around the world. This once important junction is still a great place to visit. Besides the busy marina, there is a visitor centre and the all important facilities such as water and sanitation with a bonus shower and laundry facilities. I spent time reading a book on the front deck while my laundry was washing and drying.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wooden Spoon Charity Challenge</td></tr>
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The following day was Wednesday 2<sup>nd</sup> July and time was catching up on me. the 4 peaks Challenge was nearly upon us. This Wooden Spoon charity event is one of the most exhausting yet exhilarating physical (and mental) challenges in UK. Teams of Four (three climbers and a driver) pit their strength,and determination against four of the highest mountains in UK. In 48 short hours, they have to climb Ben Nevis in Scotland, Helvellyn in the English Peak District, Mt Snowdon in Wales and Carrantuohill in Ireland, a total of 14000ft They also have to drive the 1000 miles between each peak. Tanya, my daughter was taking part in this challenge.<br />
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The next day, Thursday 3<sup>rd</sup> July was the start of the 4 Peaks Challenge and I still needed to post the 'countdown' blog as an introduction. My problem was that Saul Junction didn't have very good internet connectivity so Ian and I spend a lovely few hours at the Bell Inn using their WiFi (what a shame) and watching the opening sets of Andy Murry's disastrous Wimbledon game. In the meantime Tanya and her team of trusty climbers and driver were making their way to Fort William.<br />
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(If you are interested in a 'blow by blow' of their progress, you can find it at <a href="http://peakishness.blogspot.co.uk/">http://peakishness.blogspot.co.uk</a> It is posted in reverse order, so scroll to the bottom for the first post.)<br />
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While we were moored at Saul Junction, we had another long-overdue encounter. Peter Carr, an ex-work colleague whom we hadn't seen in perhaps 15 years popped up. He lives with his family about 20 minutes drive from Saul Junction so it was lovely to be able to reminisce about 'old times' over a glass of wine.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gloucester Docks</td></tr>
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I still needed to get a good continuous internet connection, so on Thursday morning we pulled up the mooring pins (or rather loosened the mooring ropes) and set off for Gloucester Docks where we spent firstly a nail-biting 48 hours, then a pleasant few days relaxing and exploring the Waterways museum and other places of interest around Gloucester.<br />
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We have had some great weather and at times like this, we tend to have our meal in the great outdoors - well on the front deck of the boat. and just to silence the sceptics... Yes I DID cook that meal.<br />
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Mind you, we had just finished when the heavens opened. Talk about 'Just In Time'.<br />
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We left Gloucester on Tuesday morning (8<sup>th</sup> July) and headed up the River Severn towards Stourport. One thing I don't miss about Gloucester Docks is the mess that the seagulls make!</div>
Winedownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07810679250079175437noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-270617978596328584.post-66425755331002126832014-07-06T10:32:00.000-07:002014-07-06T10:32:53.004-07:00River AvonMooring in the basin at Stratford-Upon-Avon is limited to 48 hours. We spent the second day of our stay with a bit of domestic ‘stuff’ and then the delights of exploring. The laundry (Silly Suds)did a ‘drop-in’ service (drop your laundry in and they will wash and dry it for you) so we took our laundry, negotiated a price, which included ironing, arranged a time to pick it up again and left…job done! We were free to spend our time on more pleasurable pursuits.
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghvOYbtqoblaTQCp2RZl15CSsIzPrgkbSDDrn58C-fLyfMQ7VyMpkzfJPlhbHhQ5nspoLtmOLfmiNtzyRKp2NIw39sgG188xrJC3g6IJQeEuidLeXo093NQYaUGKvnWCixioGJ2FicevsH/s1600/Stratford+Basin.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghvOYbtqoblaTQCp2RZl15CSsIzPrgkbSDDrn58C-fLyfMQ7VyMpkzfJPlhbHhQ5nspoLtmOLfmiNtzyRKp2NIw39sgG188xrJC3g6IJQeEuidLeXo093NQYaUGKvnWCixioGJ2FicevsH/s320/Stratford+Basin.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gower Memorial Statue</td></tr>
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Winedown was moored in the shadow of the Gower memorial statue. By 1769 there was a growing appreciation of the works of Shakespeare and this was somewhat due to the Garricks Stratford jubilee festival, held in the same year. As a sign of appreciation, Lord Ronald Gower commissioned (and personally funded) the memorial statue and presented it to the town in 1888. The figures around the base of the Shakespearian characters of Hamlet, Lady Macbeth, Falstaff and Prince Hal.<br />
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We later found the oldest pub in Stratford-Upon-Avon, The Garrick Inn, originally owned by the same Garrick family dating back to 14th centuary.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuSa4DCHGAwuojU5ZPrcR8SjShbQaojIgD1FbiEkORh_GS9z6GcFEeD-jXqBdRDQ8JnyrFfOhgiCbqwEYILgfc0GjkYJw3iuBUaQYzjx2RzlGv6glU8UYhaavMnR8M-AqUyhwpP8cAmfQ-/s1600/Gerrick+Inn.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuSa4DCHGAwuojU5ZPrcR8SjShbQaojIgD1FbiEkORh_GS9z6GcFEeD-jXqBdRDQ8JnyrFfOhgiCbqwEYILgfc0GjkYJw3iuBUaQYzjx2RzlGv6glU8UYhaavMnR8M-AqUyhwpP8cAmfQ-/s1600/Gerrick+Inn.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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While enjoying half a pint of cider, I noticed a sign over the bar that read as follows… ‘Here we are together, drinking Wine, Ale and Stout. May the roof above us never fall in and the friends below never fall out…’<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5R5S4dDzdJUjme5HvKforFcTKpx0z59p2AfUntGTVqowRklpyZfR6KGx7dI7a5ih6T_CNF2UXGIHC5ZEHUwBAqkk-2hNEtmNotdkrme7Va4wT5G5q5VOQ3_WxJyLs-qMh1gIReyVHBhob/s1600/Shakespeare's+house.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5R5S4dDzdJUjme5HvKforFcTKpx0z59p2AfUntGTVqowRklpyZfR6KGx7dI7a5ih6T_CNF2UXGIHC5ZEHUwBAqkk-2hNEtmNotdkrme7Va4wT5G5q5VOQ3_WxJyLs-qMh1gIReyVHBhob/s1600/Shakespeare's+house.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shakespeare's family home</td></tr>
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And just to prove that we don't spend all out time in pubs... We explored the town of Stratford-Upon -Avon, relishing in the wonderful old architecture and history<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ6KCDbh3ZKgH24AuAe_2Q72rSYnPiKQczAk-QIeN6mx1W0IzWsIWIuXHEMiHdQdPTTBLenBYHHaowFSsKIPgUsMsIhQHQSfLNuLOjqGDIj49RgWKOXU1VXUvPqMDnVEbSmtcNoq8YioBi/s1600/The+fool+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ6KCDbh3ZKgH24AuAe_2Q72rSYnPiKQczAk-QIeN6mx1W0IzWsIWIuXHEMiHdQdPTTBLenBYHHaowFSsKIPgUsMsIhQHQSfLNuLOjqGDIj49RgWKOXU1VXUvPqMDnVEbSmtcNoq8YioBi/s1600/The+fool+2.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The fool</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwnAXE2qi0q_qQY-DwOqIptn0wqagqBLjOjEfQ7b9I-Fd0Sml5INXDxX9Xbjl5OXwngyRWvZ6ML70GpR-9xHzMSNlcIt4Hg5PmcWNDV2jiRS9C69c33Ccalxmvzo3Eoih2pkSAhZ517pG_/s1600/The+fool.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwnAXE2qi0q_qQY-DwOqIptn0wqagqBLjOjEfQ7b9I-Fd0Sml5INXDxX9Xbjl5OXwngyRWvZ6ML70GpR-9xHzMSNlcIt4Hg5PmcWNDV2jiRS9C69c33Ccalxmvzo3Eoih2pkSAhZ517pG_/s1600/The+fool.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inscription at the base of 'The Fool'</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leaving Stratford-Upon-Avon behind</td></tr>
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On the morning of Wednesday 18th June, we bought a river licence (the Avon river is run by the Avon Navigation Trust and therefore a separate licence is required) and left the Stratford basin to enjoy once more the pleasures of boating on a river. We had been having gorgeous weather for the past few weeks and therefore the river levels were well within the normal navigation limits and the flow was even a little sluggish, so little cause for concern.<br />
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Unlike the River Thames, the locks on the River Avon are not manned and are all manual so after clearing lock 56 which joins the basin to the river, we turned south, worked 3 locks over 5 miles and moored before WA Cadbury lock near Welford-on-Avon. It was very remote with no access to the town at all, but that didn’t bother us since we had frequented a number of pubs over the past few days. It was time for me to remember how the galley worked and where my oven was!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi1l6RcPEJHlWbsRaljAJ0crKbEdd2DvCgIixF2NH7n986kmBrTYoTDaN5nU3YDu9d8fZ_Gb0p7o-uHos4SZNwkG4N9ldsQK5nmRSMZEfcjVPOr37EfqCP6vOkJGL1P__G9tZJNThPhyphenhyphenkc/s1600/Bidford2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi1l6RcPEJHlWbsRaljAJ0crKbEdd2DvCgIixF2NH7n986kmBrTYoTDaN5nU3YDu9d8fZ_Gb0p7o-uHos4SZNwkG4N9ldsQK5nmRSMZEfcjVPOr37EfqCP6vOkJGL1P__G9tZJNThPhyphenhyphenkc/s1600/Bidford2.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bidford-On-Avon</td></tr>
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We were in no hurry to get to Tewksbury (the end of the Avon Navigation) so on Thursday we stretched ourselves to work 3 locks over 3 miles before mooring in the delightful village of Bidford-On-Avon.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Moored near the recreational ground</td></tr>
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The mooring is right next to the recreational ground and although the mooring itself is limited the park offered BBQ areas as well as a children’s play park, tennis courts and a cricket green. The mooring is only 24h mooring but we were a bit naughty and stretched it to 36 hours as it was so enjoyable.<br />
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While we were moored at Bidford, a tugfronted narrowboat, Daedalus owned by Simon and Pat, moored behind us and when we set off the next morning they joined us so that we could share the locks.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwVTPWnKy9wys0rxuHLMpI9yVhjcFzw1Xvkl5TdbWbMq7egtYrfSoknx75onZIYxjzFCvww6DeW0d9NK4BNZR0PddgzB-S42WelAdnt0_FwCZDWkNCyNNA8JXLYnLTEBIg_TSsHOonTnPv/s1600/IMG_0240.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwVTPWnKy9wys0rxuHLMpI9yVhjcFzw1Xvkl5TdbWbMq7egtYrfSoknx75onZIYxjzFCvww6DeW0d9NK4BNZR0PddgzB-S42WelAdnt0_FwCZDWkNCyNNA8JXLYnLTEBIg_TSsHOonTnPv/s1600/IMG_0240.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of Workman Bridge - Evesham</td></tr>
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We happily worked the next 4 locks over 8 miles and shortly after lunch we moored at the Workman Gardens in Evesham.<br />
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For boaters not familiar with this part of the river, I have to warn that the Evesham lock is a bit tricky to navigate. Coming downstream as we were, it isn’t until you are at the lock that you can see if it's occupied, full or empty and the lock operation mooring is quite short (having said that, there were volunteers manning the lock to help boaters through). In addition, NB Daedalus, 67ft got stuck in the lock. We had to clear the lock to allow Daedalus to go diagonally across it before they could open the lock gate.<br />
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During our time together at the locks, we discovered that Pat and Simon had many similar experiences to us. They had bought their boat as a project boat and fitted her out themselves. Unlike us, they even got involved in the structure of the hull. I take my hat off to them as that was a ‘bridge too far’ for us.
Ian and I spent a lovely afternoon in Abby park (across the river from Workman Gardens) exploring the remains of the abbey before we went into the town to replenish supplies. We found that there was a Morris Dancing Festival taking place at one end of the Abbey gardens and sound of their music carried on the light breeze.<br />
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On returning to the boat, we saw Simon about to go for a bicycle ride. He invited us to join them for drinks later that evening and so it was that we had another boozy evening with a lovely couple.<br />
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Sunday morning, we were woken at the crack of dawn by people shouting instructions to rowing boats in the water. We had moored opposite the Evesham Rowing club and a lovely sunny Sunday morning (albeit 6:00am) is prime time for the rowers.<br />
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Although Evesham offered 48h mooring (which are plentiful), we said goodbye to Simon and Pat on NB Daedalus and set off for Pershore just 11 miles and 3 locks down the Avon River. The long stretches between locks made for a lovely relaxing trip.<br />
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Sunday is usually prime time for the fishermen too, and while most of them will nod or wave a greeting, there are some who are none too pleased to be disturbed but these noisy narrowboaters. One fisherman studiously avoided our greeting and even put his hands over his ears to show his displeasure. Nowt as strange as folk!
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As the Avon River has a wide flood plain, villages are often set far back so there is little to disturb the natural order. The iridescent blue flash of the kingfisher can often be seen skimming the water. On more than one occasion we saw the trails of the grass snake as it attempted to cross the river. Sadly to say, we saw little sign of the water vole.<br />
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Reaching Pershore, we were pleasantly surprised to see that there was ample mooring alongside the recreational ground above Pershore lock. We were spoiled for choice for a mooring spot.<br />
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Ian had found a pub called the Pickled Plum and had phoned ahead to book a table for lunch. This was to be our wedding anniversary celebratory lunch. We found the Pickled Plum on the top edge of Pershore and it was well worth the walk.<br />
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I would happily have stayed an extra day at Pershore but we had Doctors’ appointments to keep and therefore had to get Winedown into the marina at Tewksbury. After replenishing supplies at the supermarket situated at the opposite end of the recreational ground, we set off for the last 14 miles of the Avon River, with just 3 locks to work.<br />
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Tewksbury marina gave us a lovely mooring spot alongside the river. Across the river from the marina, there were lovely parklands to overlook. Although we were in a marina, if we looked over the river we had an idyllic setting in the warm sunshine with a gentle wind and a wonderful vista. This is what boating is all about.<br />
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The following day, we hired a car from Enterprise – they have a wonderful
service whereby they will pick-up and drop-off wherever you are – and leaving
Winedown safely tucked up in Tewksbury marina, set off down the motorway
towards Reading. <o:p></o:p></div>
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After the tedium (but necessity) of doctors and dentist, we
were able to enjoy our grandchildren for a few days and even had time to look
up old friends, Mick (the marina manager at Frouds Bridge), his good lady, Sue
and assistant, Bill. We enjoyed the summer sunshine with them at the Butt Inn
near Aldermaston Wharf.<o:p></o:p></div>
Winedownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07810679250079175437noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-270617978596328584.post-38557126782016578452014-06-20T08:14:00.002-07:002014-07-06T01:28:18.075-07:00Umbrellas and Shakespeare<div class="MsoNormal">
As we approached the Hatton Flight we saw two men on the
lock wearing the distinctive blue shirt and red life-preserver of the Canal
& River Trust volunteers. We had been told that there were often volunteers
on the flight and it was indeed a welcome sight, particularly since we thought
we would have to climb the flight without the help of another boat. But we were
in luck. As the lock was filling the volunteer told us that he had asked the
boat in front to wait at the next lock so that we could lock up together. He
assured us that the crew of the boat were pleasant people and he was sure we
would all get along. How right he was!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Fran & Roger and Di & Chris were the crew on
narrowboat Umbrellas and we all seem to hit it off straight away. Very soon we
were in a comfortable rhythm and the daunting 21 locks just melted away amid
much laughter and chatter. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I commented on the unusual name of their boat and asked Fran
how they settled on the name. Fran told me a lovely story which I will try to summarise.
Fran and Di had been friends for a very
long time, a friendship that started with nursing together. As time went on and
their respective families arrived, they often took family holidays together in
France. On one such holiday, they were playing on a sandy beach when a strong
wind blew all the beach umbrellas away. A shout of ‘Umbrellas’ rippled along
the shoreline as the brightly coloured umbrellas cartwheeled along, with their
owners scrambling after them. Thereafter, whenever they holidayed together, the
four would toast and clink their wineglasses together, instead of saying chin-chin
or cheers as others would, they said ‘Umbrellas!’ Fran said that when they
bought the boat, there was only one fitting name…’Umbrellas’.<o:p></o:p><br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2ZtGd-pFH5iwCOcsmYhEA6YuGDxzTPFFFUhmupUL6LLWU93MqE6tr8pNvg_kpRsLHeAuxAg2dTUAfhUooTv3HE_a8YzYUy96OqSFYzKiodm35pDdWg9WWweT3HR_HDtl0JPRS9-53bGv6/s1600/Umbrellas.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2ZtGd-pFH5iwCOcsmYhEA6YuGDxzTPFFFUhmupUL6LLWU93MqE6tr8pNvg_kpRsLHeAuxAg2dTUAfhUooTv3HE_a8YzYUy96OqSFYzKiodm35pDdWg9WWweT3HR_HDtl0JPRS9-53bGv6/s1600/Umbrellas.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Narrowboat Umbrellas</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip7ix5WtDCTyNxheUovCwIvTBQ4VbfF24IN0Ygap_hS3wfXt4MNKPBiYjEQmWp-UnqhdsX2METwvCybRICs2kIC8kVFCKtzly_OjfRnpO5RJ7WajpX5gRcPYeDNH5WM2OsxlxxWGqmrziS/s1600/Winedown+%2526+Umbrellas.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip7ix5WtDCTyNxheUovCwIvTBQ4VbfF24IN0Ygap_hS3wfXt4MNKPBiYjEQmWp-UnqhdsX2METwvCybRICs2kIC8kVFCKtzly_OjfRnpO5RJ7WajpX5gRcPYeDNH5WM2OsxlxxWGqmrziS/s1600/Winedown+%2526+Umbrellas.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Winedown and Umbrellas</td></tr>
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At the top of the locks, we breasted up the boats and
lunched together. It was then that we discovered that we were all going on to
the Stratford-on-Avon canal so we continued on our way together. </div>
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At Kingswood Junction where the Stratford
canal meets the Grand Union, Umbrellas encountered a boat coming towards them
and they slowed to wait for it to pass. We, in turn slowed behind them. In the meantime another boat was manoeuvring to make the same turn that we
wanted to make. Phew, it was all happening at once. </div>
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While waiting for the turn,
Umbrellas ran aground on the soft clay at the edge of the canal. Once the way
was clear, we slipped pass them, picked up their bow rope and tied it to our
stern dolly. The momentum and our engine power easily pulled them clear. We were
then able to make the turn and work the first 4 locks before mooring for the
evening. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsfYsa77l8wxSgQBRX8FrxB5EfEuN_9rJANF-WsaXD84GcW1ahuVGvZbmNkxWxtqBsUnVv_4TOwKJkzTS7zLqJwp4BNZAyQWU1h_ePO09StMA37qfZ2XBrOXagOZ80YKox5nUj_X4I7Ee-/s1600/barrel-roof+cottage.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsfYsa77l8wxSgQBRX8FrxB5EfEuN_9rJANF-WsaXD84GcW1ahuVGvZbmNkxWxtqBsUnVv_4TOwKJkzTS7zLqJwp4BNZAyQWU1h_ePO09StMA37qfZ2XBrOXagOZ80YKox5nUj_X4I7Ee-/s1600/barrel-roof+cottage.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Barrel-roof cottage</td></tr>
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The following day, Umbrellas bid us farewell and continued
on their way. We were in no hurry and wanted to enjoy as much of the scenery as
we could, so we set off some hours later, mooring at Wootton Wawen later that
afternoon. At lock 28 we passed a
barrel-roof cottage that was quite extraordinary but typical of this part of
the canal. The cottages, originally the lock keeper’s cottages have been
largely extended but the strange barrel-roof is still quite evident.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Leaving Wootton Wawen behind on Friday 13<sup>th</sup> June,
we looked forward to crossing the spectacular Edson Aqueduct but before we had
gone little more than ½ mile, we saw the day hire boat in distress. They had
run aground. Well, since we had practiced the manoeuvre just two days before,
we simply repeated the process. We slipped pass them, picked up their bow rope
and pulled them clear before continuing on our way. At the next lock, the day
boat moored behind us and we discovered that they didn’t know how to work the
lock. Once again, we helped them before continuing on our way. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG3bhmKX0cUOLUW4dg0Tued-idMSrtsC6CXrebVfI26ED_mPnLqt4Pju5Ye0ffXXuC5Y0n8mY9AEV959gHaaOwV5pmDP9RJ9Iwa1Z_uEe_6JD5TN1v3G_cNk9ezZjJsQuH_sR5hZ7SeVHH/s1600/Edstone+Aqueduct.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG3bhmKX0cUOLUW4dg0Tued-idMSrtsC6CXrebVfI26ED_mPnLqt4Pju5Ye0ffXXuC5Y0n8mY9AEV959gHaaOwV5pmDP9RJ9Iwa1Z_uEe_6JD5TN1v3G_cNk9ezZjJsQuH_sR5hZ7SeVHH/s1600/Edstone+Aqueduct.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the Edstone Aqueduct</td></tr>
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The Edstone Aqueduct is as spectacular as it was reported. The canal is carried across a water meadow, a
rail bridge and a road bridge by this aqueduct. While we were several meters
above the road, Ian received a cheery wave from a van driver on the road below.
It was quite surreal.</div>
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We ended our boating day at bridge 59 which carried Featherbed
Lane over the canal and into Wilmcote. It is here that the restored house of
Mary Arden (William Shakespeare’s mother) attracts visitors. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Before we could settle down, a Canadian couple asked us to
help them reverse their boat, passed several other boats, to the winding hole so
that they could turn their boat. As all boaters know, there is little-to-no steering
when reversing a narrowboat. Ian assisted at the helm while I took up the
bargepole to use as a punt and between us we managed to reverse the boat is a relatively
straight line.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Shortly after the Canadian couple were on their way, Sheridan and William, the couple
on the day boat returned from the pub and found themselves in a similar predicament.
They had passed the winding hole when they moored, giving no thought to how
they would later return along the canal. They too asked us to help them. And so
it was that Friday 13<sup>th</sup> turned out to be a day of rescue.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIB3zMoilRO2e5428VXhLBPZIwtU0IvZCUjWbt509VuqX9dGNnpSOSevVn5PzxSQUL7dvkmPM_CwACRJ9LbsctkPWyJLu3Eu5efTWwMxiAgSbd3BG3g_sZfmGyEbG2n0aN2tzXLAAKQzSi/s1600/Crew+of+Umbrellas.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIB3zMoilRO2e5428VXhLBPZIwtU0IvZCUjWbt509VuqX9dGNnpSOSevVn5PzxSQUL7dvkmPM_CwACRJ9LbsctkPWyJLu3Eu5efTWwMxiAgSbd3BG3g_sZfmGyEbG2n0aN2tzXLAAKQzSi/s1600/Crew+of+Umbrellas.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ian with the crew of Umbrellas</td></tr>
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The Canadian couple had told us that the train station was
only a stone’s throw from the mooring and a convenient way to go into Stratford-Upon-Avon
only a few miles away so on Saturday we left Winedown on the mooring and took
the train to explore the birthplace of William Shakespeare. To our delight, we found Umbrellas moored in the Stratford basin and were invited to share a glass of wine with them. We later arranged to meet up with them the following evening to share a
finger-buffet dinner alongside the canal.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Sadly, all good things come to an end and the following
morning, we waved goodbye to Umbrellas and her crew as we all set off in
different directions. I hasten to add… not before we had exchanged contact details. I believe It’s always such a privilege when strangers can lift the curtain on their lives and allow one a glimpse in passing. Here’s to you, Umbrellas, I hope we meet again!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Continuing on our way, we worked the final 16 locks on the
canal and moored in Stratford basin, overlooked by the Royal Shakespeare
Theatre. We had previously booked
tickets for dinner and a play at the theatre so in true fashion we dressed up and
enjoyed the Shakespearian play Henry 4<sup>th</sup> in Shakespeare’s birth town
at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. Since 2014 is the 450<sup>th</sup>
anniversary of Shakespeare’s birth, it would be rude not to!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The basin at Stratford-Upon-Avon </td></tr>
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Winedownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07810679250079175437noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-270617978596328584.post-27283370890462137342014-06-20T07:33:00.000-07:002014-06-20T07:33:00.889-07:00Over Winter 2013/2014 and a new Start<span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">Barby Moorings on the Oxford canal </span><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 16.866666793823242px;">wasn't</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> quite what
we expected but it afforded us security for the winter.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Barby Moorings</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 16.866666793823242px;">Ian and I planned to spend 8 weeks between January and March in Spain and we needed peace of mind while we were away. Barby Moorings provided just that. We went into the marina towards the end of October and we were given a lovely bank side mooring.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 16.866666793823242px;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Calibri,sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 16.866666793823242px;">Before embarking on our Spanish holiday, Ian arranged for
Windown to be put into ‘Winter Storage’ a no-frills mooring at almost half the
price. This suited our needs as we were not intending to be around anyway and
the financial saving was an added bonus.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">We thought that Winedown could do with a new coat of
paint. We had attempted to have her painted in 2013 but to no
avail. While in Barby Moorings, we renewed our endeavours and after much
deliberation, settled on boat painter, Ptolomy Lane of TJS Professional Boat
Painting Ltd. His work was indeed professional and we were very pleased with
the results. Ptolomy finished well within the timescale that he gave us and we
were able to leave the marina early in May sporting our ‘New Coat’.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lizzy & Simon with Ian</td></tr>
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We left Barby Mooring on Friday 16<sup>th</sup> May and had
only been out for an hour when we came across Simon and Lizzy Oakden on their
widebeam ‘Les Chenes Riverain’. We were
invited to stop for tea but that turned into an evening drink and we didn’t get
on our way again till next day. Oh well…That is boating. Our first social
get-together on the Cut for 2014!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Simon and Lizzy turned eastwards towards Braunston while we
left the North Oxford canal at Braunston Junction, continuing on the Grand
Union canal towards Napton Junction. Our first locks for 2014 were the three
Calcutt Locks followed closely by the Stockton Flight. A rude awakening to
energetic boating!<o:p></o:p></div>
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At the bottom of the Stockton Flight we met Maddy Forth
(from whom we bought Winedown as a project boat in 2006) and found ourselves
moored alongside her boat Newdigate for 3 weeks! Maddy had asked for Ian’s help
with her boat and in return, he was able to use her well stocked workshop to
finish some repairs.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steam-driven working boat, President</td></tr>
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While we were moored alongside Newdigate we had the pleasure
of seeing the last remaining (restored) steam-driven working boat ‘President’ and
her butty ‘Kildare’ steaming along the canal. They were on their way to the boat
show at Crick. On our travels, we have seen the pair on a few occasions but the
never cease to move me. There is still something to say for the old technology!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Butty, Kildare</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">I must just say that during the three week period that we were in Long Itchington it
was not all toil. We moved the boat to the Blue Lias pub for a break and later
camped at the Crick Boat show with our friends Gary and Trevis and their boys
Thomas and Stephan.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thomas & Stephan on the buggy</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">We picked the best day to camp since it rained on the
days before and after we went. The campsite was bogged down in mud and tractors
were being used to pull cars (and even 4x4 vehicles) out of the mud. Our
camping gear had to be taken to the camp side in a buggy because Gary couldn’t get
his car in. Fortunately, our pitch was firm and as the day went on, the ground
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While moored at the Blue Lias we were joined by Simon and
Lizzy on ‘Les Chenes Riverain’. A wonderful surprise. Of course it didn't take long for
the beer and wine to appear as we toasted old friends and new alike.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Before long, it was time to move on and start our boating
season in earnest. With several jobs
completed, we felt that we had earned the right to start our ‘Summer
Exploration’ and left Long Itchinton – home of the Warrickshire Fly Boat
Company; and Maddy – on Sunday 8<sup>th</sup> June. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Passing through Leamington Spa, we moored at The Cape (lock
25) just on the outskirts of Warwick. Intending only to stay overnight and move
on the next day, we realised how close we were to Warwick castle and changed
our mind. The original Warwick Castle
was built by William the Conqueror in 1068 Over the next 700 years this
medieval castle was developed into the castle you see today. It was well worth
the time spent. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Warwick Castle</td></tr>
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passed through many hands. Over its history of nearly 1000 years, Warwick
castle has been owned by 36 different individuals; has had four periods of
crown property under seven different monarchs and has been the family seat of
three separate creations of Earls of Warwick. It has been the family home of
the Beaumont, Beauchamp, Neville, Plantagenet and Dudley before it was granted
to the Greville family by James I in 1604. The castle remained the property of
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Warwick castle was the first of our history lessons. On
Wednesday 11<sup>th</sup> June we continued on our way, heading for the
Stratford-on-Avon canal which joins the river Avon at Stratford-Upon-Avon, the
birthplace of William Shakespeare 450 years ago.<o:p></o:p></div>
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But first we had to climb the Hatton flight of 21 locks. It
was at the bottom of the Hatton flight that we met narrowboat Umbrellas…</div>
</span>Winedownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07810679250079175437noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-270617978596328584.post-41332290527735054922013-10-16T12:18:00.000-07:002013-10-16T12:19:42.806-07:00Coventry Canal, (Birmingham & Fazeley) and the Ashby CanalIt was a little confusing after leaving Fradley Junction. We were on the Coventry Canal but some way down the canal it's name changed to the Birmingham & Fazeley Canal then at Fazeley Junction, changed back to the Coventry Canal. I don't like confusion so I went in search of the reason.<br />
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At Fazeley Junction, the Birmingham & Fazeley Canal meets the Coventry Canal. Originally, the Coventry Canal was to continue beyond Fazeley Junction in a north-westerly direction towards the Trent & Mersey Canal at Fradley, but the Coventry Company ran out of funds at Fazeley. The Birmingham & Fazeley Canal extended along a similar line towards Whittington Brook while the Grand Trunk Canal Company (as it was at the time) built the link from Fradley. At a later stage, the Coventry Company bought the link from Fradley Junction to Whittington, but did not buy the link from Whittington to Fazeley. Between Whittington Bridge and Bridge 78 you can see the stone pictured here that marks the point where the two canals join. Still confused? Never mind, enjoy the canal anyway!<br />
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From Fradley, the canal passes through flat, open countryside before it skirts Whittington where some back gardens reach all the way down to the canal. It was along here that you can see some lovely, well-kept gardens.<br />
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Just beyond Whittington, is a wooded stretch that covers the side of Hopwas Hill and it was along here that we noticed the first signs of Autumn.<br />
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After leaving the boat in Fazeley Mill Marina for a few days while we looked after our granddaughter, Hollie, we continued along the Coventry Canal, where we passed a number of reclaimed slag heaps at Pooley Hall. A reminder of its mining industry which began operating around 1846. There is now a heritage centre on the site of the old colliery which provides an insight into the mining history.<br />
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The river Anker converges with the canal at Atherston bottom lock flight and we began the climb through the 11 locks that make up the Atherston flight, climbing through open countryside, allotments and housing before reaching Atherston Top Lock.<br />
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We took our time, appreciating the beautiful, tranquil morning, before it changed to a busy, bustle of town life.<br />
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At Atherston Top Lock, we disposed of rubbish at the sanitary station before continuing on towards Nuneaton, Bedworth and Hawkesbury Junction.<br />
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Also know as Sutton's Stop (named after the Toll Clerk), Hawkesbury Junction is a busy canal centre and junction between the Coventry and Oxford Canals. The iconic, disused engine house was once used to pump water up into the canal from a well. The steam engine, install in 1821, was called Lady Godiva and stopped work nearly a hundred years later in 1913. Lady Godiva now rests in the Dartmouth Museum<br />
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We continued along the Coventry Canal into the heart of the city of Coventry.<br />
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The branch line started off well enough as you leave Hawsbury Junction, with charming sculptures on the first few bridges and a wide towpath. Attractive, well-kept green verges gave way to lovely views over the park.<br />
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Some beautifully manicured gardens that backed onto the canal gave an indication of pride, but all that didn't last.<br />
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Needless to say, I didn't much like the branch line into Coventry Basin. It's certainly not the most inspiring part of the canal. About a mile and a half in, and the canal was dirty, with rubbish everywhere. Broken wooden fences replaced the well-kept gardens, and dirty houses hid in shame behind piles of junk. Industry encroaches, but not in a sympathetic way. As the canal passed through the outskirts of Coventry, I began to wonder why we had journeyed this way.<br />
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As if to redeem itself, towards the basin and just before bridge 2, there is an elegant row of weavers houses known as the 'Cash Hundred Housing' (although there are only 37 of the original 49 left) In days gone by, living accommodation would have taken up the lower two floors and the upper floor with its large windows would have been where the looms were, driven by a steam engine.<br />
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Another 3/4 of a mile later, the canal terminates in a basin (with plenty of mooring) overlooked by tall buildings and old wooden warehouses.<br />
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Coventry is the home of motor manufacturing and the birthplace of such iconic makes as Daimler, Jaguar, Triumph, not to mention Massey Ferguson, so a trip to the Transport Museum is not to be missed.<br />
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During WWII Coventry's industries turned to the production of material for the war effort which made it a target for enemy bombing and on 14th November 1940, during a night air-raid, reported to be the most prolonged and devastating attack on any city in history, the city was all but destroyed. The devastation was so complete that Germany coined a new word 'Coventrated' meaning the destruction of a city from the air.<br />
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Among the ruins was of course the cathedral. By the end of the attack, all that remained was a shell full of rubble, the tower and the spire. Even in those times of utter despair, some found the ability to forgive. From the ruins of the cathedral, nails were collected and fashioned into crosses. These crosses of nails have been presented as symbols of peace to Kings, Queens, Bishops and all manner of spiritual leaders around the world. As a result, Coventry has become known as the' Reconciliation Centre of the World'.<br />
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But on a more historical note, Coventry is reported to be the home of Lady Godiva - or to be more exact, Countess Godiva or rather Godgifu (pronounced Godgivu meaning God's gift) before the name and title was corrupted by history.<br />
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Lady Godiva is remembered for her naked ride through the town in order to persuade her husband to lower the crippling taxes imposed on the poor citizens of Coventry. This wonderful story and all its derivatives has spanned the centuries but in truth is unlikely to have happened since Coventry was little more than a hamlet at the time. However, the popular legend remains and still keeps people talking.<br />
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Whether or not you are interested in Lady Godiva, Coventry's manufacturing past, the total devastation during World War II or the cathedral of Reconciliation, Coventry is now a burgeoning University City and well worth a visit. But beware; our experience of dining-out was not good. Poor service and a long wait appear to be quite an acceptable order of the day.<br />
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We left Coventry behind on Monday 30th September and I could hardly wait to reach Hawkesbury Junction so I immersed myself in housekeeping chores. It was a relief to leave the Coventry canal and breath the fresh air of the Ashby Canal. Quite a contrast.<br />
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But before we reached the Ashby, we passed this boatyard.<br />
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Boatyard or Junkyard? ....You be the judge!!!<br />
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Originally, the Ashby Canal was intended as a route-through from the Coventry Canal near Bedworth to the River Trent at Burton Upon Trent, however this plan was repeatedly shelved. In 1792 the owners of the new coalfields near Ashby de la Zouch and the Leicestershire Limeworks decided that a southbound outlet was required; but it wasn't until 1804 when a new coal mine sunk at Moira, producing an excellent quality of coal that was widely demanded in London and Southern England, that the canal flourished. <br />
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The navigable part of the restored Ashby Canal is 22 miles long with no locks; but this shallow canal (maximum 3'6" draught) makes for very slow progress. We managed an average speed of 2 miles per hour; but we were not in any hurry. Just a word of caution; there were places where the canal was so shallow that we lost steerage and ploughed into the bank. Scars, broken brickwork and transferred paint on some of the bridges indicated that we were not alone in this.<br />
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Almost from the moment that the Ashby canal left the Coventry Canal at Marston Junction, the scenery changed dramatically. The industry and housing estates that marked the Coventry Canal disappeared, to be replaced by green fields, trees and farms. The typical stone-arched bridges were evident from the start.<br />
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A long wooded cutting drew us on towards the typically farming village of Burton Hastings and my spirits soared as we gently made our way through this beautiful countryside.<br />
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Although the weather was becoming ever more autumnal and the temperatures were dropping to the mid-teens, it couldn't detract from our pleasure...<br />
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... and I enjoyed walking along this remote and rural canal and gathering blackberries while Ian was never far away.<br />
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We stopped at bridge 23 where a farm shop, set a little way back from the canal, sold fresh produce, eggs, bread & milk and meat. We bought some excellent sausages as well as a delicious pork pie!<br />
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Passing Stoke Golding, the canal meandered around Dadlington and eased its way towards Sutton Cheney Wharf where there is a sanitary station and are full service facilities.<br />
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One point to note with regard to the Ashby Canal, services that accommodate waste disposal are few and far between while water points are plentiful.<br />
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We passed bridge 35 and negotiated the sharp turns before mooring near Shenton Aqueduct. We wanted to spend time at the nearby Bosworth Battlefield and Visitor Centre. If you are interested in the history of our country, this is not to be missed. It is the site of national historical significance and is the location of one of the three most important battles fought on British soil.<br />
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The Battle of Bosworth was fought on August 22nd 1485 and it was on this battlefield that King Richard III (the last Plantagenate King) lost his life and his crown, and brought an end to the War of the Roses. Henry Tudor, the victor became the next king of England and this gave rise to the powerful Tudor Dynasty that spawned Henry VIII, Bloody Mary, and Elizabeth I.<br />
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At the top of Ambion Hill, near the Battlefield Heritage Centre, this stunning walk-through sundial features the thrones of Richard III, Henry Tudor and the treacherous Lord Stanley, the three principal players to this dramatic turn in history.<br />
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I hardly need to say that we had a fantastic day!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs6MkYyei7A3YLzgLADOYUbCFoP_rT149vPP-SWV2vQOFPZvoyFYUdyexR9gqK5XLTenUsjqXW77t2LHYKfeADmxpyGNMqnMJ6nwJFbliwhxPZmqB3PU4AyfqRPYP1yv2Qu31-WhqZNZ6y/s1600/IMG_0144.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs6MkYyei7A3YLzgLADOYUbCFoP_rT149vPP-SWV2vQOFPZvoyFYUdyexR9gqK5XLTenUsjqXW77t2LHYKfeADmxpyGNMqnMJ6nwJFbliwhxPZmqB3PU4AyfqRPYP1yv2Qu31-WhqZNZ6y/s320/IMG_0144.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Then, with autumn leaves falling, we made our way to Snarestone and the end of the Ashby Canal Navigation.<br />
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Snarestone sits on a ridge at right angles to the canal which in turn passes under the village through a crooked 250yds tunnel, the only tunnel on the canal.<br />
Emerging from the tunnel, we passed a further two stone-arched bridges before the canal terminated.<br />
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There are 48hr moorings at the canal terminus (and a sanitary station) so moored for the night.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2ZpXT6K5wtzrAmRXGEZR4pzL41gslEmJPOlXQQU2lElUGaKCK1n85Hy66l46TzGgJI0Hdgi110r3RCsMVAOvP60jGhdpJHgNR0QUQEwnyaQdWSUzxkYKNAfGV_tzZsyD4HTsqgbGQJCl3/s1600/IMG_0159.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2ZpXT6K5wtzrAmRXGEZR4pzL41gslEmJPOlXQQU2lElUGaKCK1n85Hy66l46TzGgJI0Hdgi110r3RCsMVAOvP60jGhdpJHgNR0QUQEwnyaQdWSUzxkYKNAfGV_tzZsyD4HTsqgbGQJCl3/s320/IMG_0159.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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A few hours later, as the sun was sinking in the sky, we were treated to a wonderful photo opportunity. The liquid-golden sun shone through the bridge and over the fields, bathing them in a magnificent glow. I was enchanted, and simply couldn't capture the beauty of it all on film.<br />
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We stayed the full 48 hours in Snarestone to make the most of it. We took a bus (the bus stop is outside the Globe pub) into Ashby de la Zouch on Saturday and enjoyed a lovely pub lunch at The Globe on Sunday.<br />
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All too soon, it was time to leave Snarestone and return down this idyllic, rural canal towards Trinity Marina where we were to leave the boat for a few days, stopping at the market town of Market Bosworth on the way back. We met friends Jackie and John for dinner at the Red Lion, one of the two oldest buildings in the town which dates back to 14th Century.<br />
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We left Trinity Marina and the lovely Ashby Canal on Tuesday 15th October for the last leg of our 2013 adventure as we headed down the Oxford Canal towards our winter moorings at Barby Marina.<br />
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Author's note ***<br />
<br />
Ian laughed at the numerous mentions of 'Sanitary Stations....'<br />
When boaters get together there are three topics that are always discussed...<br />
1) How waste is disposed of - and where;<br />
2) How waste is stored on your boat;<br />
3) What sort of heating do you have;<br />
So it should not be a surprise that I frequently mention such an important topic!</div>
Winedownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07810679250079175437noreply@blogger.com0