Wednesday 21st October 2009

Up early as there are a lot of locks to do today.  Took Bill and the ball twanger into the park and over to the shops to get the papers.  There is also a takeaway pizza shop an Indian takeaway and a Chinese for future reference.  What a stroke of luck, another boat Nb Rusty Nail came along just as I was leaving so I buddied up with them.  There are three guys, Bernie and Tim who own the boat between them and have been sailing for years and a pal of theirs, Paul, who’s spending a week with them.  At the end of the day we not only got up through Rickmansworth we got all the way to Abbots Langley which was 18 locks and 14 miles – fantastic, thanks guys.  So went in search of a pub where I could by them a beer or two and found the fantastic Dog and Partridge just up from bridge 167 and had far too much to drink.  We also got roped into a raffle for the ladies darts team and I won three prizes out of my five tickets, but I put two of them back to be redrawn for someone else to win.  Fantastic day apart from a short shower the weather wasn’t too bad either.

Thursday 22nd October 2009

Up early to the shops for a paper and a walk for Bill.  Set off again with the guys at 9am and what another great day in terms of locks and miles.  Today we got right through Hemel Hempstead and Berkhamsted all the way to Cow Roast.  That’s 26 locks and 12 miles.  Again guys, what can I say but thank you very much.  I certainly wouldn’t have got nearly as far without all your hard work.

  

Friday 23rd October 2009

Set off early again.  Another lovely day but sadly Paul is leaving Nb Rusty Nail at Tring Station to go back to London.  However, another good days travelling this time with Tim and I working the locks we got through 20 locks in 13 miles to moor up after a quick shop in Tesco’s in Leighton Buzzard by the Globe Inn and a well earned beer or two.

Saturday 24th October 2009

Took Bill for a walk through the fields.  Weather has changed and it’s raining.  However, off we go with only 5 locks for me to get through before we part company in Fenny Stratford.  The water level in the pound fro Leighton Lock to the Soulbury Three Locks is very low, probably about 18” down so dragged me bum all through this stretch of canal.  Watered up and pumped out and tied up in Fenny Stratford by 2pm.  Said tarra to the guys and met up with Mark of Nb One Way Of Life for a few beers in the afternoon.

Sunday 25th October 2009

Staying in Fenny for a few days.  Took Bill up the towpath for a walk and back for a leisurely breakfast.  Lazed about for the rest of the morning and met up with Mark and Nicky for an afternoon in the Red Lion.

Monday 26th October 2009

Took Bill right round Caldecott Lake in which, of course, he had to have a swim.  Met two ladies out for their daily constitutional and it was over a year ago when we first met and chatted, small world again.Came back up into town for the papers and a few bits from the hardware store.  Met up with ark in the afternoon for a few beers.  Got the latest stoppage list from BW and the bad news is I can’t go back up through Leicester to Loughborough because Dunn’s Lock 34 to Gees Lock 36 and bridge 32, which are all in Leicester city are closing on the 2nd November and I can’t get through there in time so I’ll have to go up the Oxford Canal to Hawkesbury Junction then along the Coventry Canal to Fradley Junction then along the Trent and Mersey to Trent Junction then back down the River Soar to Loughborough, hopefully in time for Christmas.

Tuesday 27th October 2009

Took Bill around the lake again and for another swim and back up into town for the papers.  Quiet day today catching up with the Blog and writing up my log.  Few beers in the Lion and an early night.

Sunday 11th October 2009

Drizzly start to the day.  Set off for Bishop Stortford by 9.30am.  Want to get up to BS and back to the moorings above Sawbridgeworth Lock today.  Lovely scenery and very rural.  At the first lock of the day, Sheering Mill Lock, there’s a commemorative plaque to show that this is where the wings of the WW” fighter bomber plane the Mosquito were made – and the link – well my dad joined the RAF in 1936 and served in  a Mosquito squadron throughout the war in North Africa, Italy, Crete, Burma and India.  Well I never.  Got to Bishop Stortford and back out again PDQ, sadly not very enticing with the odd wino lying on the towpath.  Even though there are plenty of visitor moorings there wasn’t one boat staying over.  Got back to Sawbridgeworth in pretty good time and tied up by 3pm.  Went up into town to explore and found the Queen’s Head, A BEER AT LAST and Bill is very welcome, ah heaven.

Monday 12th October 2009

Staying over today.  Had a good walk back along the towpath to a big meadow with Bill’s Ball Twanger and had a good run around.  Caught up on some chores and went up to explore the town and get some shopping in Budgens.  Nice town with MANY PUBS plus and Indian, Tex-Mex, and Chinese restaurants and a chippy.  Lovely weather again and a nice restful day.  Few beers early doors in the Queen’s Head.

Tuesday 13th October 2009

Took Bill for a walk along the towpath and then up into town to get a paper.  Had a natter in passing with the landlord of the Good Intent and Bill would be very welcome there too.  Beautiful weather, hardly a breath of wind and a cloudless blue sky.  Set off by 10am in these glorious conditions.  Got through seven locks to then join a queue of three boats at Parndon Lock and we were making such good progress.  Hey ho, after the next lock, Hundon Mill Lock, decided to moor up above Roydon Lock.  Good choice, nice moorings with a massive meadow back up the towpath for Bill to play in.While we were in the meadow playing with Bill’s Ball Twanger he lost sight of the ball.  It was then that I found out the he instantly responded to right and left commands and changed direction instantly and I was able to direct him from some distance to find the lost ball.  Fantastic, what a clever lad.  Also a short walk over the railway line and up a little lane there is the village of Roydon with THREE pubs, a chemist and a village store.  Tried the Saracens Head first and bingo, Bill’s welcome.  Sadly not so in the White Hart – boo.  Didn’t get to try the New Inn but as we’ll stay over tomorrow will give it a try.

Wednesday 14th October 2009

Staying over here today.  Nice walk up into the village for the papers.  After breakfast a major clean up is required.  There’s so much of Bill’s fur on the rug you can’t see him when he lies on it!!!  So out with the Dyson and off we go.  Cor the rugs are deep red and not black and white!  Even washed the floors,  cleaned the kitchen and hob and the bathroom and dusted throughout.  Looks like a new boat.  Took Bill up to Hunsden Mead, the big big meadow and had a good old run around.  collected a poo bag (empty I hasten to add) full of sloe berries to make some sloe gin, shame it takes so long.  Quite getting into this DIY pickles, relishes and booze.  Off to the Saracen’s Head for a few scoops.

Thursday 15th October 2009

Off up to the shops for the papers and off to Hertford after breakfast.  Overcast to start but promising very nice weather later.  Only three locks to get off the River Stort then a major change as we go back onto the very River Lee.  Only four locks to get to Hertford but they are incredibly heavy especially Hertford Lock No 1 and Stanstead Lock has an incredibly fast wash out of the paddles – BEWARE and work it SLOWLY and you must also open the swing bridge over the lock.  Turned the boat around at Folly Bridge and tied up at the brand new visitor moorings in Hertford by 2.30pm.  Lovely cruise now off to explore the town.  Had a few beers in the Old Barge early doors, sadly Bill not welcome so he had to stay on the boat.

Friday 16th October 2009

Took Bill for a walk to get the papers and few bits and pieces in town.  Staying over today cos we can.  Lazy day with a nice long walk with Bill and the ball twanger to the nearby playing fields.  Few beers in the Barge later.

Saturday 17th October 2009

Quick walk up into town to Waitrose to get some bits, also bought a couple of lovely woolly jumpers in The Scottish Woollen Mill sales.  Set off by 9.30am aiming for Broxbourne.  Hurt my back the other day and it’s not quite back to normal so lock 1, Hertford Lock, has done it in again.  I nearly couldn’t get the gate open!!!  This must be the hardest lock I’ve ever done.  Gingerly worked our way back through the notorious Stanstead Lock No 4 and got to Crown Bridge in Broxbourne by 3pm.  Tied up outside the Crown pub on the visitor mooring but, BOO, Bill not welcome.  Went for a walk instead.

Sunday 18th October 2009

Up early and off for a long walk with Bill then set off for Cow Bridge next to the Middlesex Filter Beds Nature Reserve to tie up by 3.30pm.  This part of the River Lee back to London is boring because it’s practically straight with lots of industry on the west side of the navigation.  However, at least some of the locks are either part or totally electric so that will help the old back that is apart from Enfield Lock where I had to get two guys from the lock cottage to help me open the gate.  Took Bill for a long walk around the nature reserve and back for an early night.  On a final thought for the day how would you describe the following sign I noticed -

Authorised Treatment Centre for End Of Life Vehicles????  In my day I’m sure they were called scrap yards!!!

Is it me?

Monday 19th October 2009

Up early and a good run for Bill on Hackney Marshes.  Cor must be 50 full size football pitches here.  Set off at 9am down the Limehouse Cut to Limehouse Basin.  Bit boring again with lots of industrial sites apart from Old Ford Lock where there is the house that the Big Breakfast was filmed in and also Bow Locks – so bollocks to you too mate!!  Back on the Regents Canal and sensible locks at last.  Had a bit of a ding in the Islington Tunnel as the headlight went off for some reason I came together with the wall which tore the tonneau cover slightly and snapping two of the lacky bands.  Tried to get into Paddington Basin but no room so had to come back out and tied up at the top of Little Venice at 6pm – long day – took Bill into the park next door and an early night.

Tuesday 20th October 2009

Up early again, well 8am, and a good run in the park for Bill.  Set off at 9am aiming for Cowley Peachy.  Cold wind and overcast.  NO LOCKS today just a long cruise.  Turned off the Paddington Arm  and back onto the Grand Union Canal proper at Bull’s Bridge and tied up in Cowley Peachy by 3pm.  1st job is to get down in the weed hatch to clear the fishing line off the prop.  Took Bill for a long run along the towpath and back in for the rest of the afternoon.  Out into the park before dinner with Bills ball twanger.  In for an early night.  By the way I know coconuts come from palm trees but why are there so many in the canal???  Must have seen at least 20 today – any ideas?  Oh and I’ve decided not to go down the Slough Arm as considered opinion is that it’s very weedy and there’s nothing there anyway worth seeing.

Thursday 1st October 2009

Was going to go down the Aylesbury Arm, however, there’s a boat in Marsworth No 1 Lock south so decided to go that way instead.  Good decision, Martyn and Ela on Nb Isadora are going all the way to London so will buddy as far as we can.  Did 21 locks out of Marsworth through Berkhamsted to tie up above lock 60.  Went into the Three Horse Shoes for a well earned beer with Bill (beware the Dobermans – eek scared me even!).

Friday 2nd October 2009

Set off together by 9.30am for Cassio Bridge.  Nice weather again and good company.  Another long day today with one swing bridge and 19 locks.  Good moorings though the pub is now a Harvester (euk!) and the shop doesn’t exist anymore.  So an early night in front of the telly.

 

Saturday 3rd October 2009

Set off together again by 9.30am.  I’m only going as far as South Harefield (Widewater Lock 86) but Martyn and Ela are off on a mission to get as far as possible.  Lovely to meet them and I’m sure we’ll meet up on the cut again some day.  Believe it or not we came upon a guy in a 30ft narrowboat in a lock waiting for it to EMPTY ITSELF!! – HE DIDN’T HAVE A WINDLASS.  He’d never even been on a boat before and the bloke who sold him the boat (just above this lock) told all locks were manned!!!  He apparently is heading for Weybridge so that means he has many more locks to get through plus he will need to go up the Thames for which he also didn’t know he would have to pay apart from the fact he doesn’t have a BW licence either.  Anyway a lady off another boat gave him a windlass but still has no idea how to set and work a lock.  I wonder how far he’ll get?????  The bad news for us is the Horse and Barge is not Bill friendly, hey ho another quiet night in.

Sunday 4th October 2009

Spent a very strange night listing at 15 degrees.  The water in the pound had dropped considerably and left us grounded.  So up early to try and refloat the boat, however, not as bad as I had thought.  So we were able to set off by 8.30am.  Heading towards Paddington Basin or Little Venice.  Only three locks to go through but 21 miles of canal.  Let’s see how we get on.  Much better weather than yesterday, light breeze but a bit cloudy.  It’s weird coming into London by canal cos you really see nothing of the suburbs right up until you get to Kensal Town and Little Venice.  There was a mooring in Little Venice but it was partly under a pedestrian footbridge so carried on into Paddington Basin.  Loads of spaces though on the floating pontoons the mooring cleats are completely in the wrong places for boats over 45 ft long so moored over behind St Mary’s Hospital – cor this brings back memories of the many times I worked in this hospital, glad that’s done with.  Had an exploratory walk with Bill, sadly no grass to be seen the nearest being Hyde Park or Regents Park.  Back to Beau for an early night.

Monday 5th October 2009

Staying over today.  The weathers turned really orrible and wet.  Took Bill for a walk back towards Little Venice and back for breakfast.  Finally settled in front of the old flipflop to get on the tinterweb and catch up on the blog.  All done but probs with the tinterweb connection.  Found Tesco’s and a little pub called the Royal Exchange which is a good old Irish pub with loads of horseracing memorabilia and lots of characters.

 

Tuesday 6th October 2009

Weather still dreadful so not moving again today.  Took Bill on usual walk and finally sorted out the tinterweb.  Had to download the Firefox browser and disable Internet Explorer 8.  All seems fine now.  Few beers in the Exchange and even found a launderette which I’ll use on the way back through London.  Quick shop in Tesco’s and an early night.

Wednesday 7th October 2009

Walked Bill as usual, better weather today but still looks like rain.  Been having a few problems with the fresh water pump so going to try and sort it out.  Oh dear it’s leaking again like the last time so switched the pump off and shut off the cold water supply.  Took the pump out and disassemble the whole unit and cleaned all the surfaces.  Replaced the seals with jointing compound and reassembled it again which I now hope will solve the problem.  put everything back together and turned everything back on and lo and behold it seems to be working OK, damn I’ good (I think?).  Decided to spoil Bill a little by taking him down to Hyde Park which is about a mile away.  Off we go and the heavens opened, too late now we’re going on regardless.  Found the park OK and walked along the Serpentine past the Serpentine Gallery to the Diana memorial water feature, which Bill promptly jumped into, no respect has the boy.  Despite the rain we had good fun playing with the ball twanger.  Back to the boat for Bill and a few beers for me.

Thursday 8th October 2009

What a change in the weather!  Not a cloud in the sky.  Up early and walked Bill towards Little Venice and back via the post office and Tesco’s.  Set off by 9am.  Chilly in the shade but soon got warmed up working Camden Locks.  No probs through the Islington Tunnel.  Pumped out at the BW site at Old Ford Lock but no water as the taps knackered.  Carried on through Victoria Park up the Hertford Union Arm but no suitable moorings.  Continued up the Lee Navigation past part of the Olympic site to tie up near Lea Bridge by 4pm.  Took Bill for a long walk through the filter beds there which is now a nature reserve -  very nice.  There are two pubs just up the way, but can you believe it I can’t be bothered, honest! 

Friday 9th October 2009

Set off from Lea Bridge after a walk up through the park to get the papers.  Over clouded and chilly with a blustery breeze.  Seven locks to go through and I thought all the strange locks were on the Kennet and Avon Canal.  First lock we came to was the Tottenham Lock which is a very long double lock with the west lock being manual and the east being electric.  So I went into the east lock to tie up and climb up to find a notice saying this side wasn’t working at present.  So I untied and moved Beau into the manual lock.  Many many winds later the gates are shut and the lock is filling when along comes another boat and do nothing other than go into the electric lock stick his key in the control and guess what – bugger it works!!!!  - has been for a while matey he tells me!  Anyway off we went through some locks that are in pairs some with electric gates but manual paddles and one that was totally manual and very heavy.  However, got up to Waltham Abbey and some nice moorings above the Town Lock with a nice big park for Bill to run in.  Settled in for the night and still not been in a pub!!!

Saturday 10th October 2009

3.49am we were rudely awoken by some dickhead climbing on my roof!!!! so bellowing like a banshee for him to “get off my f**king boat”.  It was very unsettling and we got little more sleep.  Up early and sure enough there are the footprints.  Wandered up into town for the papers and a look around the market.  Set of by 9.30am together with another boat all the way to the junction with the River Stort.  I turned right to join a queue at the first lock.  Yesterday I went through some strange locks, however, nothing compared to these.  Firstly they only 12 feet wide so you can’t get two boats in together but they’re wide enough for your boat to get thrown about if your not careful.  Secondly there are no hand rails on the top gates so you have to walk all the way around the locks and the pretty long too and finally be careful when opening the paddles because the wash is savage directly from the side of the chamber..  However you soon get into a routine and we aimed to get to Sawbridgeworth by 5pm.  Ha, not to be, I finally gave up at 7pm IN THE DARK when I finally found a suitable mooring tying up by a concrete wall beside a sluice.  Completely knackered again so another early night with no pub – must be a record, get onto to the Guinness Book of Records quick!!

 

Monday 21st September 2009

Walked Bill up to the shops the papers, had breakfast and set off in lovely weather by 9.30am.  Buddied up with a boat in the Bottom Lock called Nb Hawkeye with a lovely couple called Dave and Ella.  Went all the way together up through the 6 locks out of Braunston and then through the Braunston Tunnel (2042yds) and down through the 7 locks in the Buckby Flight.  Tied up in Weedon by 4pm.  Took Bill for a walk up the towpath and met Sam and Cynthia off Nb Guinevere with their new springer puppy meg.  Chatted for a while but they were off to a pagan wedding (don’t ask!).  Few beers early doors in the Wheatsheaf in Weedon.  Great village, good stores in Weedon Bec, plus Indian restaurant and takeaway and a Chinese takeaway, what more can a man ask for?

 

Tuesday 22nd September 2009

Walked Bill all the way to Weedon Bec, about 2 miles to the shop and back.  Set off for Stoke Bruerne about 9.30am.  Nuther lovely day.  Got to Stoke Bruerne about 3pm having come through the Blisworth Tunnel (3057 yds and you need an umbrella!!!).  Took Bill for a walk up through the woods and back via the entrance to the tunnel.  Sorted out dinner and off to the Boat Inn for a couple.  Met a lovely couple called David and Julie off Nb Lovely Country Girl (I think) and arranged to go down the 7 locks in Stoke Bruerne tomorrow.

 

Wednesday 23rd September 2009

Set off for Milton Keynes and down through the 7 locks to tie up at the park moorings in Great Linford.  Lovely site, big park for Bill to play in and an excellent thatched pub, the Nags Head, which is Bill friendly too.  Can’t be bad.

Thursday 24th September 2009

Lazy start in lovely weather after a long walk with Bill and the ball twanger in the park.  Got started by 10am.  Only 5 miles to go to meet up with Mark and Nicky on their Nb One Way of Life.  Met Mark along the towpath but Nicky and Cassy won’t be here until tomorrow pm.  Later Mark, Bill and I walked the mile or so to the Red Lion in Fenny Stratford to see Guy and Glynnis again.  Had far too much to drink in very dubious company and had a great night wobbling back to the boats in the pitch dark.

Friday 25th September 2009

Staying here over the weekend.  Diddled about on the boat and waited in the Plough Inn car park for Nicky and Cassy to arrive.  Set off to the Red Lion again with much the same results as last night.

Saturday 26th September 2009

Same routine as yesterday cept Mark and Nicky stayed in .

Sunday 27th September 2009

Moved Beau to the 7 day moorings by the Red Lion and washed the roof again and wiped it down, looks much better now.  Also polished the port side of Beau and it’s come up a treat.  Met up with Mark and Nicky for a few (????) in the pm and sat outside in wonderful weather with a great bunch of locals and boaters.  Said tarra to Nicky cos she’s off tomorrow but will hopefully see her again soon.

Monday 28th September 2009

Staying another night and then off tomorrow.  Walked up into Fenny to a great old hardware shop to get some bits and bobs.  Met up with Mark in the evening to go through the route to London and beyond.  Plus had a few more beers and said tarra to everyone.

  

Tuesday 29th September 2009

Walked Bill up to the garage in Fenny to get the papers, it’s also a Marks and Sparks shop so got some veg etc.  Set off into unchartered water as far as I’m concerned to tie up at bridge 111 just above Leighton Buzzard where there happens to be a pub called the Globe which is Bill friendly.  Had a few beers early doors.

Wednesday 30th September 2009

Set off for Marsworth Junction to tie up by bridge 130.  Got down through Leighton Buzzard Lock 27 and tied up by Tescos and did a big shop.  Set off again 1 1/2 hours later and got through the 11 locks (single handed worst luck) to tie up by 5.30pm.  Long hard day so need a beer or two in the Red Lion with Bill.

Footnote…………..

Good old British Waterways are currently very efficient a keeping me informed as to the various closures and problems on the system letting me know where and when by email, however, they’ve done it again.

I got this email recently

 

Advice by email from BW

 

PHONE LINES

 

Wednesday 8th September 2009 until further notice.

 

Please be advised we are having problems with the phone lines and not able to answer any calls.

 

Any enquiries please call 0207 985 7200!!!!!!!!

 

Is it me?

Friday 11th September 2009

Staying over here in Fradley Junction today.  Walked down past the BW shop and over the canal to the nature reserve.  Special building here being used as a bird hide.  Built by my very good friends David and Andrew Raffle, who are not only Master Thatchers but also National Living Treasures no less.  Had a few early doors in the Mucky Duck and met a couple of boaters, Alan and Jim and we discussed propellers, very interesting, honest.

 

Saturday 12th September 2009

Set off for Hopwas at 10am.  Again a lovely cruise in fine though breezy weather.  Tied up by 3pm and took Bill for a walk back along the canal and up into the woods.  Went for a couple of beers in the Red Lion where a staffy had a go at Bill though not seriously.  Early night.

 

Sunday 13th September 2009

Set off at 10am after a long walk with Bill.  Passed through Fazeley Junction and up through the two locks in Tamworth and tied up in Polesworth by 2pm.  Walked down into the town to get the papers and had a few beers in the Red Lion where the landlady and staff made a real fuss of Bill and were told that we MUST come back when we come this way again.

Monday 14th September 2009

Walked down into town for a top up shop and set off for Hartshill in very cloudy weather by 10am.  Good climb through the 14 locks in 2 1/2 hours and tied up in Harthill by 3pm.  Next boat along makes cut vinyl signs etc so arranged for her to make my BW reg number with a BW logo to replace the orrible metal plates stuck in the windows.  Walked Bill the mile or so up the hill to the Malt Shovel and another good night there as before, even had dinner this time.

Tuesday 15th September 2009

Got the new signs for my boat and they’re excellent.  Set off for Hawkesbury Junction at 10am.  Quite a long cruise today in windy weather. Stopped to diesel up at Valley Cruises.  Passed through Nuneaton and Marston Junction and tied up at 3pm in Hawkesbury Junction.  Put the new sign on the port side and it looks fantastic.  Will move round through the lock tomorrow to do the starboard side.  Went into the Greyhound early doors and had a few scoops.

Wednesday 16th September 2009

Staying over here another day though moving through the stop lock on the mooring at the top of the Oxford Canal.  Put the other reg number on Beau and again it looks fantastic.  Walked up to the local shop and got a paper.  Into the Greyhound for a few beers and met a lovely family from Northumberland, Dad Charles, mum Kath and two lovely young kids who made a great fuss of Bill.  Have exchanged emails and will keep in touch.

Thursday 17th September 2009

Set off for Hillmorton Locks after a visit up to the local shop.  Chilly day but a nice cruise though longer than would normally like if only to avoid Newbold on Avon (not Bill friendly).  Saw and had a quick chat with Nb Piston Broke last seen here last year in just about the same place though they have been on their travels too.  Tied up above the locks in Hillmorton by 4pm.  Walked Bill back down through the locks and got a few bits and pieces in the chandlery.  No pub though today Arghhhhhh………

Friday 18th September 2009

Took Bill for a walk down through the locks, had breakfast and set off for Braunston by 9.30am.  Lovely weather, very sunny with a sleight breeze.  Saw a Kingfisher standing on a branch waiting for his dinner to swim along.  Fantastic, only seen them flying before now.  Moored up just before Butchers Bridge by 12.30pm.  Sorted out a few chores before collecting my post and going to see Dave at the Wheatsheaf, even saw Del but she’s with a new fella.  Good craic early doors.

Saturday 19th September 2009

Walked Bill up to the Bottom Lock and Braunston Chandlers and stocked up on fluorescent lights at £1.50 each – bargain.  Also got a new boat hook pole (original snapped).  Replaced the ropes on the fenders and generally diddled about whittling my new pole!!!!  Few beers early doors with Dave and the locals.

Sunday 20th September 2009

Walked Bill up through the village and back via the bottom lock.  Read the Sundays and had a few beers in the Wheatsheaf.

Tuesday 1st September 2009

Last long walk along the beach with Bill at 7.30am.  Collected the hire car at 9.00am and got packed up by 10.30. Louise and family started to move their things into the cottage and we were able to get away by 11.30am.  Drove back to Festival Park and got all my stuff on board by 4.00pm.  Long walk down the canal with Bill and an early night.

Wednesday 2nd September 2009 – Today would have David’s 63rd birthday – Happy birthday wherever you are.

Walked Bill along the towpath before breakfast.  Settled up with the marina at a lot less than I thought, original quote was £200 per month which would have been £900, however, because the boat had been there for over a quarter this reduced the cost to £620 – result.  Set off for Stone at 9.00am and joined a queue straight away at Stoke Top Lock but who cares I’m back afloat again.  Not to slow and progressed quite smoothly through all 14 locks over 9 miles in 7 hours.  Weather quite mixed with many showers but hell I’d still rather be on Beau with Bill.  Saw Jo and Kieth off Nb Hadar in Stone and will come back up tomorrow to catch up.  Stone very busy but managed to get the last mooring below Star Lock about 1/2 a mile outside town.  Had to use spikes in very soft ground so will move tomorrow when the other boats move on.  Ah bliss back on the boat again or have I already said that once or twice.  Ain’t life grand, couple of pints of REAL ALE in the Star and an early night.

Thursday 3rd September 2009

Took Bill for a long walk up through the park before breakfast and got a paper in town.  Checked the spikes and they seem OK.  Spent the morning all the stuff I brought back from Sunderland.  Too many boats going past TOO FAST so checked the spikes again at noon and just in time a the bow spike had pulled free and was about to fall in the canal.  Fortunately managed to retrieve it and move about a hundred yards back up the canal to secure ring moorings.  Unfortunately the boat in front of had pulled completely free from the bank and drifted to the offside of the canal just as a boat came along and helped the owner to get back aboard and moor up behind me. Bloody SPEEDING BOATS!!!!  Took Bill to his favourite shop in town to get him some treats and walked up to Stone Boat Builders Chandlery to get some bits.  Had a couple of beers in the Star.

 

Friday 4th September 2009

Going to stay the full 5 days on this mooring cos we like Stone.  Lazy start with a long walk with Bill up through the woods and the meadow beyond.  Went up to town to get some bits an pieces and bumped into Brian and Rebel off Nb Daisy, last seen in Whittington last March.  Called into the Star for a couple early doors.

Saturday 5th September 2009

Same walk this morning up through the meadows then along to the water meadows.  Got a paper and did some chores on the boat.  Starting to get back into our normal routines now.  Tried the Swan today and I’ve got to say it’s far better than the Star and of course Bill friendly.  Much more welcoming for us both and a much warmer atmosphere.  Had a very enjoyable early doors with Brian.

Sunday 6th September 2009

Walked all the way up to the top boatyard to see Jo and Keith on Nb Hadar, last seen in Hungerford on the Kennet and Avon last summer.  Great to see them, and they’re chuffed because BW have given them the coal run from Crick to Mountsorrel on the Leicester arm of the Grand Union Canal so will hopefully see them again soon.  Into the Swan with Brian for a few beers.

Monday 7th September 2009

Set off for Great Haywood after a long walk with Bill to get the papers.  Lovely cruise in fantastic weather.  Watered up and moored up by 2pm.  Spoke to Mary and we’re all going to meet at 6.30pm to go to a village festival nearby with Morris Dancing and Stag Antlers and other pagan rites like chilli and chips!  Smashing evening and will see them again tomorrow before I go.

Tuesday 8th September 2009

Staying over again today so took Bill down to the river to play and get him a bath in fresh water rather than the sea.  What a glossy boy now.  Met with Paul and Mary in the Clifford arms for a few beers farewell.

Wednesday 9th September 2009

Walked Bill through the woods then up to the shop.  Set off for Fradley Junction at 9.30am.  I should have known there was going to be problems when whilst waiting in queue at the very first lock the boat behind me wanted everyone to hurry up so HE could get on.  Got to Colwick Lock without a hitch but had to join a queue again which of course did not please the guy behind me.  Anyway I got through the lock eventually and was well on my way when I slowed down for some moored boats only to find matey boy about to ram the stern of my boat with him shouting that I was going TOO SLOW and I must let him past.  Well, Red Rag and Bull comes to mind so I slowed right down even further and stayed in the middle of the canal and wouldn’t let him past.  Cor ginger nut was getting even brighter red with rage so I took greta pleasure in staying like this all the way to Rugeley but then relented and let him past when it was safe to do so.  Sorry can’t repeat his language but it was rather colourful even for an ignorant git like him.  He’s probably had a coronary by now, shame.  Stayed over in Rugeley and cleaned the port side of the boat then walked with Bill to find a lovely little towny pub by the canal called the Mossley Tavern and had a very pleasant early doors.

Thursday 10th September 2009

Walked Bill along the towpath and then up to Morrison’s by bridge 66.  Set off for Fradley Junction by 10am and this time a much more pleasant cruise in lovely weather.  Tied up by Shadehouse Lock at 1pm and had a few beers in the Mucky Duck (the Swan)

Wednesday 1st April 2009 – APRIL FOOL’S DAY – Look out there’s an idiot about!!!

Walked Bill down through the Shugborough Estate and back via the village to the boat.  Walked up to the caves in the afternoon and then to the Clifford Arms to meet Mary.  Lovely to see her again, sadly Paul’s working away but will meet up with us on Saturday in Stone for a few beers in The Star.

Thursday 2nd April 2009

Another lovely day with Bill playing and swimming in the River Trent.  Had a few beers early doors.

Friday 3rd April 2009

Set off for Stone after a walk down the river.  Leisurely cruise in lovely weather.  Filled up with diesel and water at Anglo Welsh and met a guy called Paul Jarret on Nb Kyle which is a special boat with a Russell Newbury engine which runs on waste oil.  Paul is a director of RN!!!  Had a few beers early doors in the Star

Saturday 4th April 2009

Walked Bill around the nature reserve by the river.  Excellent farmers market today with lots of lovely goodies.  Met up with Paul and Mary in the Star Inn.  Good to see them both again.

Sunday 5th April 2009

Set off for Etruria in Stoke on Trent.  Should have been about 6 hours, however, there were a lot of boats on the move with queues at every lock and with 12 locks to go through it took over 9 hours to get there.  Met Basil and Jenny on Nb Wandering Star just outside of Stone so stopped for a cuppa and a quick natter to catch up. Last saw them on the Kennet and Avon in Bradford on Avon last summer.  Also met up with Paul and Millie of Nb Grumpy Git last seen in February 2008 as we all came off the Shroppie after wintering in Llangollen.  Had dinner in the carvery and decided to go up the Calden Canal together ‘till I go up to Sunderland to see big bruv on the 18th April.

Monday 6th April 2009

Set off up the Caldon anal after visiting the marina at Festival Park and confirming a mooring there from the 17th April.  Bit wet and the canal is sadly filthy, so much so that I even called BW in Northwich to complain and to let them know.  Tied up in Milton by 2pm.  Walked up to the shops via the field and had a few beers early doors in the Millrace.

Tuesday 7th April 2009

Much nicer day today and the canal takes on a much nicer complexion from here with cleaner waters and fabulous views.  Three lift bridges (one electric) and nine locks later tied up outside the Hollybush Inn in Denford by 2pm.  Had a few beers with Paul and Millie early doors and a good natter with a crowd of other boaters and locals.

Wednesday 8th April 2009

Stayed over today in Denford.  The weather is lovely so cleaned the roof of Beau and polished the port side with baby oil (sounds kinky but works a treat). Looks grand.  Few beers early doors with the same crowd as last night.

Thursday 9th April 2009

Set off for Consul Forge in lovely weather.  There’s a new landlord at the Black Lion so let’s hope we get a better welcome than David and I did in October 2007.  There were 23 signs saying what you couldn’t do!!! Well the answer is yes, the new landlord is great and Bill was very welcome too, yippee!!!

Friday 10th April 2009

Staying here another day. Weather still good.  Took Paul’s boat up to Froghall and had a good look around, though the tunnel is too low for boats to get through to the nice new basin moorings with all the facilities – well done BW!!!

Saturday 11th April 2009

Moved back to Cheddleston and walked up to the shops (the long way).  Saw Tony and Julie of Nb Much Gigglin last seen in Braunston in May 2008.  Only two locks to go through today, one at either end of a short stretch of the River Churnet and had a few beers in the Boat Inn.

Sunday 12th April 2009

Moved back to Denford and the moorings outside the Hollybush.  Only two locks to do today.  Weather beautiful again, even polished the Starboard side of the boat.  Had a few beers in the Hollybush with the usual suspects.

Monday 13th April 2009

Staying over today as the weather is grand again.  Met up with Mark off Nb Port and Brandy.  His boat was next to Beau in Meadow Farm Marina and Barrow upon Soar when I bought her in 2007.  We met up again purely by chance in December 2007 on the Llangollen winter moorings.  Eeek small world syndrome again.

Tuesday 14th April 2009

Took both boats up the Leek Branch and back to tie up just before the aqueduct above the Hollybush.

Wednesday 15th April 2009

Staying over another day here, nice long walks along the canal and a few beers early doors.  Bad news today, David’s been taken into hospital with a chest infection and also needed a blood transfusion.

Thursday 16th April 2009

Moved back down to Milton for the night.  Top up shop and a few beers early doors in the Millrace.  Five locks and two lift bridges today.

Friday 17th April 2009

Moved down to the marina in Festival Park and moored up by 2pm.  Funnily enough the canal was much cleaner than the outward journey. Maybe BW listened and cleaned it up.  Good teamwork with Paul to navigate through the electric lift bridge and the staircase locks in Etruria.  Fiddled about getting ready to travel to Sunderland tomorrow.  Had dinner in the carvery with Paul.

Saturday 18th April 2009

Said tarra to Paul and Millie and was picked up as arranged by Enterprise Car Rentals.  However, had a big argument with a snot of a manager who changed the agreed pricing from £12 a day to £19 a day!!!  Told him to park his car where the sun don’t shine and got the driver to take me back to the boat.  Called Hertz and arranged another car for £12 a day and set off for Sunderland.  Excellent surprise was that David’s home from hospital and it only took 3 hours to get here.

Sunday 19th April 2009 to 30th April 2009

Staying in Sunderland looking after big bruv.  Very sad news from the hospital is that his cancer has spread and there is nothing further they can do apart from palliative care at home.  So I’ll be staying with David for the forseeable future.  David very stoic about the news and his GP is a great doc who has promised above all else that he will never feel any pain.  Talking privately with the doctor he thinks that due the very aggressive nature of David’s cancer he may not live more than three months.  Why is life such a shit?

16th June 2009

Sadly David passed away at 7.45pm this evening after a short but very brave fight with cancer.

June, July and August 2009

Organised and carried out David’s funeral and completed all the administration of his estate and planned to return to the boat on the 1st September 2009.

DAVID BAILLIE

David was born in 1946 into what was known as the baby boomer generation.  At school, in classes of up to 60 kids, he was always

the comedian rather than do any work.

Having left school at 16 he tried various jobs until, at 17, he applied to go on a course at HMS Calliope on the Tyne for the merchant

navy which he passed with flying colours, proudly coming home with his certificate and the news that he was to go to sea as

a motorman mechanic on none less than the Queen Mary.  David stayed a member of the Queen Mary’s crew until she came out of

service in 1967 when she was taken to Longbeach in California where she remains to this day.

He then joined various shipping lines purely on the basis of where they went in the world and during his 43 years in the merchant

navy has probably been to everywhere in the world you can take a ship.  He even volunteered, while working for Shell Tankers, to

take aviation fuel up the Mekong River Delta for the Americans during the Vietnamese war!!!!

David never married but I’m certain had a girl in every port (and a port in every girl!) and like me retired after dad died 4 years ago

and mam died 3 years ago.  He became a well known figure in Fulwell either wobbling up Sea Road on his bicycle or having a beer

with his many friends in The Royal Marine where he was well known for his request of various people during heated discussions

to “ Please be quiet “ or rather “shut the f**k up!”.

Sadly David was diagnosed with bladder cancer in August 2008 and was stoic throughout his short but brave fight with that

horrible disease regularly teasing the nurses who looked after him so magnificently.  However, he did manage to fit a lot into that

time by coming to stay with me on my narrowboat for week and going home 3 months later!! to visiting his great pals in Liverpool

and in Cambridgshire making great use of his bus and rail pass.

Those of you who were lucky enough to have known David knew of his great obsession with Heavy Metal head banging music and

of the vast collection of tapes, LP’s, CD’s and DVD’s and even at his funeral was led into and out of the service to the strains of

Stairway To Heaven by Led Zeppelin.  One of his favourite bands was Pink Floyd and I can think of better way to close this tribute to

my big bruv, who died on the 16th June this year, with their words

‘Shine on You Crazy Diamond’

We’ll all miss you God Bless.

Sunday 1st March to Sunday 15th March 2009

Still in Loughborough and following the same routine with a few notable exceptions.  Wednesday the 4th March replaced the empty gas bottle which is always a bit of a polava  climbing on the bows to get into the gas locker etc. however, £20 for almost 5 month use ain't bad.  Also guess what happened on the Thursday 5th March - YES THE FRIDGE IS BACK.  ONLY 5 weeks to change a thermostat, not bad for the canals I spose?  Told the driver to get Sandra at Sileby Mill Boat Yard to call me to say how much I owe them and guess what - no return call.  So they can wait for their money cos I'm not calling them back this time, let's see how long it takes.  On Wednesday 11th March went back up to Barrow upon Soar for a change of scenery.  Got to have a beer with all the usual suspects and say farewell 'till next year. Came back via Pillings for a final top up of diesel before I set off up't north on my travels again.  Met up with the gang in the Swan on Sunday 15th to say bye bye to them too.  Finally off tomorrow.  Yippee.

Monday 16th March 2009

Found out Redhill Flood Lock is not opening until tomorrow but will go down as far as Zouch and the Rose and Crown anyway for the night.  Took Bill for a walk all the way down through the pastures to Kegworth Deep Lock and a few beers early doors in the Rose and Crown.

Tuesday 17th March 2009

Set off for Shardlow.  Almost off the river Soar and River Trent and back onto the canals at last.  Stopped off in Sawley Marina to top up with diesel and get a locking cap the main tank.  Tied up in Shardlow at one of my favourite places, right outside the Malt Shovel which has now reopened after a refurb. with the same staff and the same locals there so had a good evening.

Wednesday 18th March 2009

Set off to return locking cap, got the wrong one as this one says Petrol and not Diesel, hey ho.  It's only two miles back down the river, or so I thought. the bridge across the Trent that was there is not there any longer so I had to walk all the way up river to the road bridge (500 yards from where I started from!!!) and back down the other side then along to Sawley - 4 1/2 miles altogether to just get there in just under 3 hours.  Got money back and came back via the road - 1 1/2 miles in 30 minutes!!!! Knackered.  Though a few beers in the Shovel should put that right.

Thursday 19th March 2009

Called in to see Norman and Christine in Millar Marine in Shardlow to get a new battery for the bow thruster - £68 bargain - will pick it up tomorrow on my way out.  Met a Geordie lad in the shovel, gawd they get everywhere, Good craic.

Friday 20th March 2009

Called in to Millar Marine and collected and fitted the battery where Norman and Christine made such a fuss of Bill, lovely people.  Met a tupperware cruiser boat called Tuppence with four likely lads and a lass on board.  What a laugh, not a clue but willing to listen and they worked all the locks bar Stenson.  Didn't even have to get off to help - thanks people for your help and company.  Tied up in Willington in fantastic weather, shirt sleeves all the way and a burnt bonce!  Into the Rising Sun for a few early doors and met up with Brian off Nb Daisy last seen in August in Fenny Compton on the South Oxford Canal.  Also Guy off Nb Castle in the Air.  Good to see them again.  Called Liz and Andy who are now in Mercia Marina and will see them tomorrow.  Excellent day all in all, this is what continuous cruising is all about.

Saturday 21st March 2009

Long walk with Bill and then did a long awaited oil change for the engine.  Less than an hour to change the oil and oil filter and the diesel fuel filters, not bad eh?  Met up with Andy and Liz in the Rising Sun for a jolly afternoon.  Nice to see them again.

Sunday 22nd March 2009

Took Beau over to the water point to fill up and pump out.  minus £15 DIY yippee!  Also tried to flush out the airlock, AGAIN, seemed to get most of it out will try again later.  Guess who came to visit,  Daisy, Deb and Shelly-Anne.  Cor good to see them again, haven't seen them in over TWO YEARS - eek!

Monday 23rd March 2009

Weather definitely looking dodgy - should I go or should I stay????  No, lets get on, heading for Alrewas through Burton on Trent.  However, the weather really turned very nasty with very strong gusting winds and torrential rain.  So cut the journey short at Shobnall in Burton just by Shobnall Marina entrance.   Took Bill for a long walk when the rain stopped and had a long chat with the guys from the marina regarding the airlock on my boat.  Armed with their suggestions will try flushing the system again tomorrow.  Bought another fuel locking cap, right colour, wrong size!!! Will change it tomorrow.

Tuesday 24th March 2009

Woke up very early so walked Bill and backed Beau round into the marina entrance - got connected to the mains water to the back radiator and a drain hose from the front and flushed out at least 2 litres of air (that's how much water went back into the header tank), hopefully that should do it, will see later today.  Finished by 8.30am but had to wait for 9am for the chandlery to open to change the fuel lock and get some diesel for the heater.  Set off for Alrewas by 9.30am in much better weather.  Nice cruising only five locks and LITTLE ONES NOW and YIPPEE HAVE PASSED ALL THE RIVER SECTIONS NOW!!!!  Only canals from now until I get to Yorkshire.  Few beers in the Crown.  Nuther good day - but the radiator still doesn't heat up, bugger.

Wednesday 25th March 2009

Walked Bill all the way back to Wychnor Lock then up past the Crown to the village shops.  Weather still very windy and overcast with showers.  In the afternoon walked back down the other side of the river down past the weir.  Early doors in the Crown and a good chat with some other boaters.

Thursday 26th March 2009

Walked Bill down past the weir through the meadows.  In the wash from the weir there was a red breasted merganser feeding.  Last saw a merganser on the Thames when I was stuck at the Shillingford Hotel moorings in the floods in August last year.  Lovely little diver.  So far since leaving Loughborough I have seen many pairs of buzzards, kingfishers and even a young mink playing in the sun on the bank below Bishop Meadow Lock.  Around the weir in Alrewas there are also two swans nests with mums installed.  Helped a boat to moor later in the afternoon called Ami Bovard and the lady on board said you're Bill's dad aren't you?  Well, this time last year on the Staffs and Worcester Canal as I left one lock this boat was coming out of the lock in front of me and we passed and said hello.  Going down the lock Bill decided to run off much to my panic.  However, a couple of minutes later I got a call from that very boat and they had caught Bill for me.  The whole episode took minutes with little conversation apart from profuse thanks for catching Bill and still she recognised me after all this time.  Amazing, later found out they are called Nigel and Sue, thanks again for catching Bill.

Friday 27th March 2009

Was going to move up to Fradley today but it's even windier than yesterday and very heavy rain showers with some hail!  What next?  Same walk in the afternoon with a few beers in the Crown and talked to other boaters and a young couple, Susie and her husband, who have recently moved to Fradley from Cheltenham.  Great company and a good evening.

Saturday 28th March 2009

Walked Bill past the weir as usual.  Decided to move up to Fradley Junction even though still showery and windy.  Only a couple of miles and four locks.  Help a guy called Lee through Common Lock and met up with him again quite by chance later in the Mucky Duck (The Swan) in Fradley.  Lee is also planning to continuously cruise so we had a good natter.

 

Sunday 29th March 2009

Walked up past Shade House Lock and got the papers on the way back from the shop.  Tidied and hoovered out the boat (not before tome either) and walked Bill around the nature reserve and into the Swan for a few beers and guess who was in there, Susie and her husband having their Sunday lunch.  Later Lee also came in so a good natter was had by all.

Monday 30th March 2009

Walked Bill around the lake before breakfast.  Then took Beau over to the water point to try and flush this damned air lock out - again.  Tried the drain on the calorifier this time and got soaked for my efforts.  Still no heat in the back radiator unless you use the 240v household central heating pump!  Set off foe Great Heywood about 11am.  Nice cruise in average weather though a bit chilly as the day wore on.  Saw Alan and Bracken (a Nova Scotia Collie who has bright red fur, beautiful) off Nb Florence E - last seen in December 2007 in Llangollen where we were both there for December.  Stopped and had a good natter.  Got to great Heywood by 5pm and into the Clifford Arms for a few well earned beers.

Tuesday 31st March 2009

Took Bill for a long walk down to Tixall Wide this morning.  The weather is, at last, beautiful.  Clear blue skies and no wind.  Back via Anglo Welsh's yard to see if I can get Mary and Paul's phone number.  Mary is the lady who took me, Henrick and Susanne to the Border Collie Trust to adopt Bill when I couldn't get a taxi.  I lost their number when my old phone packed up but have their number now.  Got in touch and will meet up tomorrow evening in the Clifford Arms.  Excellent. Also found a lovely walk along the Trent past Shugborough Hall.  Had a few beers early doors in the Clifford Arms

Wednesday 11th February 2009 to Friday 20th February 2009

Still in Loughborough outside the Albion and STILL waiting for the fridge to be returned.  I must be the eternal optimist because I believe Sileby Boatyard when I phone to find out what's happening and they say they'll phone me back I BELIEVE THEM!!!! However, it's no good antagonising anyone because they'll only go slower.  Usual daily routine of walking Bill in the mornings to get the papers and again in the afternoons to Bishops Meadow Lock and then a few beers in the Swan. I haven't even taken any pics so here are a few old favs instead.

Saturday 21st February 2009 to Saturday 28th February 2009 - STILL NO FRIDGE and Getting REALLY BORED NOW!!!

Stayed in Loughborough until Monday 23rd February when Bill and I took Beau up to Barrow upon Soar and stayed there 'till Friday 27th February where we met up with a lot of other boater mates in the Soar Bridge Inn.  Came back down to Loughborough and tied up again by the Albion.  Met up with the guys from the Canal Forum, who are having a social weekend here and expecting about 20+ boats.  Good fun in the Albion on Friday evening and again on Saturday evening in the Swan.  Apart, that is, from some twat early Saturday (5am)  decided to untie the bow line of my boat and completely untie the boat behind me.  It was only Bill bouncing on my head that alerted me to the situation.  So I had to get up and secure my boat and also try and wake up the guy behind, who's boat was diagonally right across the canal, to secure his boat.  Luckily Ian, off Nb Otter, was going out to work (what at 5am - must be mad!!!) who helped tie up the other wayward boat.

Wednesday the 25th was Nicky, my granddaughter's 8th BIRTHDAY - HAPPY BIRTHDAY DARLING and Friday the 27th February was my daughter's 26th BIRTHDAY _ HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU TOO DARLING.  What a great week, with the exception of STILL NO FRIDGE  and yes you're right, they didn't call back!!!  However, there may be some good news in that it is apparently due back on Thursday 5th March - Watch this space.  Another however is that even if the fridge does come back then I still won't be able to move North cos Redhill Flood Lock is now closed until the 14th March so still stuck here in Loughborough.  Dieseled up on Friday 27th on way down from Barrow, filling all tanks and back ups, 105ltrs and also swapped over the gas bottle so I must get a replacement for the empty asap.

Well that was February that was, and still no new pics of note so here are a few oldies instead.

Usual daily routine of walks down to the Nottingham Road Bridge in the Mornings and down to Bishops Meadow Lock in the afternoons with a few notable exceptions,  day out on the 3rd to Pilling's Lock Marina to get diesel for the fire, Midland Chandlers finally came on Thursday 5th to collect the fridge for repair plus the weather has been fantastic with wonderful snow scenes again and the canal fully frozen.  So stuck here by the Albion for a while yet. Could be mid February if a) the fridge hasn't been returned, b) the River Soar is still in flood and c) Redhill Flood Lock closes on the 3rd March for 2 weeks.

Also this Sunday gone HAPPY BIRTHDAY BILL, he's 3 today with a card and lots of presents and fuss from the gang in the Sawn, also earlier I couldn't believe my eyes when we were walking down to get the papers.  About 150+ fishermen with ropes, chains and heavy weights breaking through the ice to start a fishing competition.  Must be barking.  Although one guy did catch a bicycle with his chain?

 Thursday 1st January 2009

Took Bill for our usual walk along the beach.  Packed up the car and set off back to the boat by 10am.  Arrived at Pilling's Lock Marina and got everything on board and unpacked by 2pm.  Went up into Barrow to stock the boat up and into the Soar Bridge Inn for a few beers.  Everything fine on Beau so no need to run the engine today.  Boy it's good to be back on the boat.  However much you may like visiting friends and family there's no place like home - especially if you live on a narrowboat.  HAPPY NEW YEAR ONE AND ALL.

Friday 2nd January 2009 and Saturday 3rd January 2009

Staying over in Pilling's Marina 'till Monday.  Usual routine on both days.

Sunday 4th January 2009

Took Bill on our usual walk and then went down to the Swan in the Rushes in Loughborough to me the usual suspects, Mick, Wilf, Rose and even Wayne and Carol.  Even got to talk to Carol!!! (long story from a long time ago)

Monday 5th January 2009

Took Bill for a long walk around the marina.  Filled up the 20ltr can and did a pile of laundry.  Took Beau up through Barrow Deep Lock to tie up there for a few days.

Tuesday 6th January 2009 to Friday 9th January 2009

Usual routine of long walks am and pm to Meadow Farm Marina and a few beers in the Bridge early doors.

Saturday 10th January 2009

Long walk with Bill then set of through the ice to Sileby Mill Boatyard.  Need to pumpout desperately and to diesel up.  Nice cruise but cold.  Good to see Sandra, Dave and Alex again, been quite a while.  Had to defrost the pumpout and the entry to the cesspit - lovely, however, needs must.  Good to be on the move albeit for only about 4 hours.  Tied up back above Barrow Deep Lock by 3pm just in time for a walk with Bill and, you guessed it, a few beers in the Bridge.

Sunday 11th January 2009

Took Beau down through the Deep Lock and Pilling's Flood Lock and down to the Wharf in Loughborough and met up with the guys in the Swan including Mac and Paula and even Paula spoke to me (another long story).

Monday 12th January 2009

Chris Williams, the Boat Safety Scheme inspector, arrived just after 9am to check the boat out to see if anything needed to be done to gain a new certificate.  Fortunately only three minor things need to be done

1) Change a 6" section of hose in the fuel line to the fire to conform to BS

2) Put a strap over the batteries to secure them from falling

3) Change to position of the Fuel cut off signs from outside in the cratch to the doors under the exit door

Also two minor advisory suggestions

1) Change the gas regulator - the existing one is reading slightly low pressure but nothing to worry about just yet

2) Cut access holes behind the gas hob so the connections can be examined on next inspection (4 years) again no hurry yet.

All done and certificate issued and I'm £135 lighter, but relieved.  Thanks Chris.  All the main things will be done asap.

Tuesday 13th January 2009 to Sunday 18th January 2009

Usual routine of long walks with Bill and a few beers in the Swan.

Monday 19th January 2009

Moved Beau to the Albion moorings after watering up.

Tuesday 20th January 2009 to Thursday 22nd January 2009

Usual routine Bishop Meadow Lock in the morning or now sometime the other way to Nottingham Road Bridge.  No movement at all as the Soar and Trent are in FLOOD AGAIN. 

Wednesday JIMM'S Mobile Marine Services came to fit the new pot in my Bubble stove, the old one had burned through!  He had to completely dismantle the chimney, flu, drain down the central heating and completely take out and dismantle the stove itself so the new pot could be fitted then put the whole lot back together again and get it to work - 10 HOURS -but it's worth it and all looking good with the heating system noticeably warmer (by 4 or 5 degrees C).  Jim's due to come back next week for the final few tweaks and to fit the fuel line hose.  ONLY £475!!!

Friday 23rd January 2009

Took Beau on a quick cruise to Pilling's Lock Marina to get diesel for the stove, 60 ltrs - £36.  Tied up back outside the Albion and had a few beers.

Saturday 24th January 2009 to Saturday 31st January 2009

Settled back into the routine of taking Bill down to Nottingham Road Bridge in the mornings and to Bishop's Meadow Lock in the afternoons with early doors in either the Swan or the Albion.

Two boats, Caxton and Matilda Rose, came through on Thursday and had to tie up at Bishops Meadow Lock because of the floods.  Helped Caxton tie up and chatted for quite a while, Joe and Leslie on Caxton and Graham and ? plus dogs.  Had a couple of beers with them today in the Albion.  Good company and Joe and Leslie know Jo and Keith off Hadar (last seen in Hungerford last summer).

Friday 7th November 2008

Back into the Pilling's Lock walk routine only this time the River Soar is IN FLOOD!!!  What is it with me and rivers??? So can't move anywhere 'till the river drops down again to safe levels.  Called Sandy at BW Newark to let her know that I'm back on Beau and will be going back to Sunderland on the 24th November for a week and all is OK with her.  Met up with Dan and Sean from Muggins Pottery (for more info on Muggins Pottery click on this link) and got all the news since Cotes Mill pub closed (my old local).  Sadly they hardly see any of the old gang as all have moved to other pubs.  Even Wilf and Rose have moved from the farm in Cotes into Loughborough overlooking the canal at Loughborough Lock.  Tried to get Gas but his phone is switched off so he must be abroad.  Good seeing Dan and Rosalie again.

Saturday 8th November 2008

Can't get down the towpath at all now due to the rising floods so we walked over the meadows instead towards the A6.  Early doors in the Bridge Inn and who should be there but Rob and his dog off Nb Raven whom I first met a year gone April at the Hope and Anchor moorings in Syston with his mate Bob.  It's that small world thing again.  Bill terrified of the fireworks again so we snuggled up on the settee for the night.

Sunday 9th November 2008

The river and the canal are both up again after last night's torrential rain.  Canal can only rise by another 6" at the most then it'll be over the top of the lock gates so safe enough here I hope.  Sunday pm in the Bridge and a DVD fest of Life on Mars.

Monday 10th November 2008 through to Saturday 15th November 2008

Much the same routine every day, taking Bill for walks, checking on the water levels and a few beers in the Bridge Inn.  Notable exceptions being Friday when I met up with Dan and Rosalie, Mark and Julian again.  River Soar opened on Friday as well.

 

Sunday 16th November 2008

River Soar still open so finally left Barrow at 10am to cruise down to Loughborough and tied up in the new basin in the centre of town - very posh.  Into the Swan in the Rushes at 1pm to meet up with Dan, Wayne and Mick.  Then Kevin (Gas) came in followed by Wilf and Rose, then Jon, Louise and Nicky.  Great to see everyone again.  Oh and Carol came in to meet Wayne and took one look at me and dragged him out to everyone's amusement.

Monday 17th and Tuesday 18th November 2008

Stayed over in the basin with the usual routine of walking down to Bishop's Meadow Lock, papers from Sandicliffe's and a few beers in the Swan.

Wednesday 19th November 2008

Usual walk with Bill and got the papers.  Took Beau to Pilling's Lock Marina to diesel up and get some prices for leaving the boat there for Christmas. What a faff paying for diesel now.  Should be 60/40 split for propulsion (taxable) and heating/charging batteries (not taxable).  But as I have separate tanks for heating + a 20ltr can also for heating there's no tax on that bit.  Also had to sign a declaration confirming the use of diesel!!! See what I mean.  Got back to the Albion moorings by 4pm.

Thursday 20th November 2008 and Saturday 22nd November 2008

Back into the Bishop's Meadows Lock routine with long walks, reading the papers and a few beers in either the Albion or the Swan.  Met up with Jon, Louise and Nicky on Saturday and had a lovely afternoon.

Sunday 23rd November 2008

Walked to Bishop's Meadow Lock and back via Sainsbury's.  PM in the Swan with Dan, Wilf and Rose.  Good craic.  Oh dear seems I've upset Jon again.  He brought the boat keys to the pub and stomped out.  Also got VERY BAD NEWS from Ali - David (big bruv) has had a stroke and is in hospital.  Managed to talk to David and he seems OK.  Have already got a hire car booked for tomorrow.

Monday 24th November 2008

Collected the car and travelled up to Sunderland and went straight to the hospital. David seems fine though the doctors said he'd had a minor stroke there is no residual damage to either his speech or motor functions.  Thank goodness, though they're keeping him in for a few days to make sure.

Tuesday 25th November to Thursday 4th December 2008 - SUNDERLAND

David was discharged from hospital on the Thursday and is glad to be home.

Thursday 4th December 2008

Travelled to Loughborough to move Beau off the towpath and into Pilling's Lock Marina.  All well onboard Beau with the batteries hardly depleted.  Spent the evening in the Swan.

Friday 5th December 2008

Walked Bill to Bishop's Meadow Lock.  Beautiful day, no breeze and not a cloud in the sky.  Cruised Beau to her new moorings, F30, and paid up to the 4th of January.  Happy now that the boat is in secure moorings and on mains electricity for charging the batteries.  Got back to Sunderland late pm.

Saturday 6th December 2008 to Wednesday 17th December 2008 - SUNDERLAND

Usual routine of walking along the beach both morning and afternoon then early doors in the Marine.  Thankfully there seems to be no lasting problems from David's stroke.

Thursday 18th December 2008

Travelled back to Leicestershire to check the boat.  Everything OK.  Into the Soar Bridge Inn for a few early doors and an early night.

Friday 19th December 2008

Travelled back to Sunderland

Saturday 20th December 2008 to Wednesday 31st December 2008 - SUNDERLAND

Back into the usual routine i.e. 2 mile walks morning and afternoon along the beeches and a few beers with the lads in the Marine.  Will be here now until the 2nd or 3rd of January.

Christmas was great with a few beers in the Marine then a wonderful rib roast of beef in the pm.  Ali and Paul came round and I even got to speak to Jon and Nicky.

Tuesday 21st October 2008

Staying on the Albion mooring again today.  Walked Bill back down to Bishop's Meadow Lock.  Dyson'd the floor and Mr Sheen'd the rest of the boat.  Looks half decent for a change.  Had a couple in the Albion at lunchtime and off into town for a few bits and pieces.  Bill welcome in the Swan in the Rushes.  Early doors in the Albion.

Wednesday 22nd October 2008

Jon, Louise, Nicky and one of her friends came aboard to cruise down to Barrow Upon Soar.  Lovely cruise though very windy.  Good to have Jon and the family together again on the boat.  Jon even steered the boat for a while. Took the boat up through Barrow Deep Lock and turned above the water point.  Watered up and got rid of the rubbish and tied up above the lock by 3pm.  Jon, Lou and the kids got a taxi back to his car at the Albion and I waited for Paul Harris, the boat electrician, who is coming to check out the electrics for the fridge.  Finally found the 15 amp fuses hidden behind the 6 switch isolation bank in my wardrobe, where else????  Power on again. Paul only wanted £10 but I gave him £20 cos well worth it to simply find the fuses.  Sadly the fridge keeps bleeping.  Early doors in the Soar Bridge Inn.  John and Di remembered me though John thought it was only 6 months since I left - actually it's 20 MONTHS!!!!

Thursday 23rd October 2008

Took Bill down to Pilling's Lock and Pilling's Marina to see John Lillie (the guy who built my boat) sadly John's not in today.  Nice long walk though.  Messed about on the boat and early doors in the Bridge Inn.  Met up with Bob and Annie, friends from my old village of Hoton and caught up with all the gossip and goings on since I  left.  Lovely to see them again.  Stayed on for the quiz and came 4th.  Great fun.

Friday 24th October 2008

Walked down to Pilling's Lock and up into town to stock up the bleeping fridge.  Few beers early doors and an early night.

Saturday 25th October 2008

Usual routine with a long walk down to Pilling's Lock and up into town for the papers and a few beers early doors etc.

Sunday 26th October 2008

Off to Pilling's again though on the way back met Bob one of the fishermen who used to drink in Cotes Mill after the matches every Sunday during the season.  His son Darren (Daz) worked in the bar in Cotes and is a smashing lad.  Apparently he now works in the newly refurbished and renamed pub in Barrow called the Boat House ( formerly the Riverside Pub) sadly they don't let dogs in so it's no go for us.  Got everything ready for tomorrows trip to Sunderland when David (big bruv) starts his course of chemotherapy.

Monday 27th October 2008

Collected by Enterprise Car Hire at 10am and taken into Loughborough to complete the paperwork.  Back to the boat and loaded up and off by 11.30am.  Arrived at Dave's by 3pm.  Into the Royal Marine with all the usual suspects for early doors and a good laugh.

Tuesday 28th October 2008 to Thursday 6th November 2008 - SUNDERLAND

Back into the Sunderland routine of going along the beach every morning and afternoon, about 2 miles each walk then early doors with the lads in the Marine.

Thursday 6th November 2008

Left Sunderland by 11am and got back to Beau by 2.30pm and returned the car by 4pm.  All's well on Beau.  Jon's been coming in every other day to make sure the batteries are topped up etc.  Thanks son.

The Changing Views of the Sea and Beach in Sunderland.

To find out more about Sanderlings click on this link

To find out more about Redshanks click on this link

Saturday 11th October 2008

Hopwas to Fradley Junction today.  Weather cloudy and threatening rain. Set off as usual at 9.30am nice but breezy cruise to moor up at 2pm in Fradley Junction.  Walked Bill around the lake and up to the Mucky Duck (The Swan) for a sociable afternoon.

 

 

Sunday 12th October 2008

Staying in Fradley today.  Got the Sunday papers from the shop and after a long walk around the lake again with Bill into the Mucky Duck for the afternoon.  Another good craic with locals and boaters.  Also saw this sign in the nature reserve, does this mean that the Boardwalk has been moved to a place called Accessible or is it that BW can't spell.  Your choice!

Monday 13th October 2008

Left Fradley Junction just after two hire boats went the same way.  Bad mistake, it took THREE hours to go through only three locks in two miles.  So decided to stop in Alrewas and let them get on with it.  Excellent decision, good shops, Post Office and THREE pubs!  Only got as far as the Crown and decided to make it my local for the duration of my stay.  Great pub, nice people and a group of real boaters.  Had a couple in the afternoon and back for early doors, very comfortable.

 

Tuesday 14th October 2008

Set off for Branston at 9.30am.  Nice cruise up through Barton under Needwood apart from being very close to a main road for quite a long way.  Tied up about 1pm and walked up to the shops and found a great pet shop for Bill, he's in heaven, many treats and back to the boat via the Bridge Inn to find it completely empty and even so they still wouldn't let Bill in - do these idiots NOT want business????  With 5 pubs a day closing in England maybe they should rethink their policy! So decided to carry on to Willington.  Passed the massive weir a Alrewas which can get very hairy and even impassable in high waters and floods, passed the massive Coors brewery and the wonderful Marston's Brewery in Burton upon Trent to tie up in time for a quick shop at the Coop and a couple of pints early doors in the Rising Sun.

 

 

Wednesday 15th October 2008

Decided to stay over as the weather id decidedly iffy.  Took Bill for two long walks, one in each direction up and down the cut.  In the Sun for early doors for a few.  On the way back who should have also moored up but none other than Andy and Liz on Nb Snowgoose, last seen at the Ellesmere boat festival last September on the Llangollen Canal.  Had a good long natter to catch up and will see them again tomorrow.

Thursday 16th October 2008

Wandered down the towpath and up into to town for a few bits and pieces.  Called in on Liz and Andy for coffee and nattered all morning.  Too late to move on today so arranged to meet them early doors after doing a few jobs around the boat (any excuse to stay over).  Started off in the Rising Sun then moved right opposite to the Green Man for a couple more.  Good evenings natter.

Friday 17th October 2008

Took Bill up into town to stock up and said goodbye to Liz and Andy and set off for Shardlow by 10am.  Lovely cruise, though back into big double locks now, no probs just takes a bit longer and you need to be a bit more aware of what's going on while the boat's in the lock.  Tied up in Shardlow by 4pm between the Malt Shovel and the New Inn.  Sadly the Shovel is closed for renovations.  Good news is that Bill's welcome in the New Inn.  Jon, Louise and Nicky came to visit (1st time in 15 months) great to see them again and all probs hopefully smoothed over.  Stenson Lock was my 1000th lock since I started 20 months ago!!!! Must have a beer or two to celebrate.

Saturday 18th October 2008

Staying in Shardlow today. Nice long walk along the towpath and up to the garage and back.  Called into Dobson's Boat Yard to see if they had and moorings available for Christmas when I go back North and also Millar Marine re the electrics and the fridge problem.  Still no power to the fridge?  Jon, Lou and litte'n came over for a few beers.  Another good day.

Sunday 19th October 2008 - The Day of the Soaking!!!! read on.........

Long walk with Bill and back to the boat.  Stripped out what I thought was the fuse from the bank of batteries to find two broken wires inside.  Took it round to Miller Marine who very kindly soldered the wires back FOC - Thank you very much for your help.  Refitted the unit but it's obviously not the problem as there still is no power to the fridge.  Plan B - get an electrician in.  Will ring Paul Harris when I get to Barrow upon Soar.  Off to the New Inn for the pm and an early night or so I thought.  However, about 11pm Bill wanted to go for a walk so on with the Crocs and armed with a torch off we went around the village.  Now remember the boat is moored on a very tight bend so only the bows and the stern are touch the bank with about a three foot gap from the path in the middle of the boat.  Well just ask who tried to get back by walking down the path I thought was down the side of the boat -- SPERLASH!!!  --  straight in the canal, however, came out a damn sight faster than I went in.  Not in long enough to even register if it was cold (mind you that could have been the alcohol I'd had since leaving the pub?).  Good job there was a big white van between me and the pub so nobody saw this nitwit go in.  No longer a virgin but a REAL BOATER now. Twat.

Monday 20th October 2008

Long walk with Bill to get the papers then off towards Loughborough where I started from 20 months ago.  Bit windy but no real probs.  Came through most of the locks with another boat which makes life a lot easier.  Dieseled up at the boatyard below Kegworth Deep Lock and tied up outside the Albion in Loughborough by 4pm.  Walked over to Sainsbury's for a few bits and pieces.  The new moorings at Loughborough Wharf looked very good with all the amenities.  5/6 berths, water, waste disposal and showers, only problem is it's only a 24 hour stay limit.  Into the Albion early doors with Jon, Lou and Nicky.  Lovely relaxed evening.

Wednesday 1st October 2008

Set off for Fenny Compton at 9.30am.  Lovely day and a windy cruise up the Claydon flight of locks (5) + Cropredy Lock, Varney's Lock and Elkington Lock.  Tied up by 4pm and into the Wharf for early doors.  Who should I meet but Brian and his staffy Rebel off Nb Daisy, last seen in Lymm last year.

 

Thursday 2nd October 2008

No rush so staying over another night here.  Long walk with Bill and into the Wharf with Brian and a group of other boaters, good craic.

Friday 3rd October 2008

Set off for Napton at 9.30am. Lovely winding part of the canal, a couple of hairpins and a cul-de-sac!  Tied up above the bottom lock at Napton by 4pm.  Into the Folly Pie Pub for early doors and had to try one of their famous pies, excellent snake and pigmy.

Saturday 4th October 2008

Set off to Braunston after another long walk with Bill. Bit windy and cold today but tied up near the Gongoozler's Cafe by 2pm.  Walked Bill up into town for a few bits and pieces from the shop and the butchers.  Went to the Wheatsheaf to see Dave the landlord.  Good couple of beers.  Sadly hardly any of the bunch we met in May come in now, either sold up or moved on.

Sunday 5th October 2008

Sorted out laundry at the marina and off to the Wheatsheaf by 3pm.  Saw the ladies who live on Nb Rune moored just below the bottom lock with their border collie, Sally.  It's amazing you can hardly tell the difference between Bill and Sally from a distance.  Good afternoon in the Wheatsheaf.

Monday 6th October 2008

Set off for Newbold on Avon at 9.30am.  Fabulous weather all the way.  Saw Nb Piston Broke in Rugby, last seen on the Thames in the floods at Abingdon as I was heading for Reading.  Sadly the Barley Mow won't let Bill in, heathens, well it's their loss and the Boat Inn next door is boarded up now.  Quiet night in.

Tuesday 7th October 2008

Started off for Hawkesbury Junction after a walk with Bill into town for a few bits and pieces.  Miserable weather, soaked through but tied up by 3pm and round to the Greyhound to see if they will let Bill in - YES - so hard a quick brace and back to Beau.  mega lasagne and back to the Greyhound for a few more - excellent pub.

Wednesday 8th October 2008

Set off for Harthill by 9.30am.  Fab weather thank goodness.  Sad news though, the Navigation Pub that David and I had such a great evening in last year is derelict.  Not a window in tact - must have been a good Saturday night???  What a crying shame.  Got to Hartshill by 3pm and had a good run around in the grounds next to the moorings.  Found a fantastic little pub about a mile up the hill from the canal called the Malt Shovel.  All the usual suspects plus a spitting image of 'Carol' - argh - spiky hair and a mini dress 2" below see level!!!  with thighs like an elephant too cor shouldn't be allowed out - enough to frighten a police horse.Joined in an ad lib quiz with the locals with daft questions and answers.  I don't particularly like juke boxes but this one was all the oldie music from my formative years - no the 60's not Al Jolson!!!

  

Thursday 9th October 2008

Set off for Polesworth at 9.30am.  Beautiful weather again and glorious scenery.  Even the eleven locks through Atherstone were a pleasure.  Just as we were going through Bradley Green who should be coming the other way but Nb Adagio last seen when we were waiting for the lock keeper at Frankton Locks on the Montgomery to open up last September.  Tied up in Polesworth at 3.30pm and took Bill for a long walk down the towpath and back down into town for a bit of a shop.  Went into the Red Lion for a couple of pints and blagged some beer pump badges, i.e. Holden's Black Country Special Bitter, Abbot Ale Spitfire and Hobgoblin.

Friday 10th October 2008

Left Polesworth at 9.30amon route for Hopwas.  Fabulous weather and again beautiful scenery making this another lovely cruise.  Tied up at 3pm.  Went over to the Red Lion about 4pm after a long walk with Bill for early doors and met a great bunch of locals taking the piss out of the landlords taste in music, which varied fro Mariachi to Trad Jazz!  A couple of things also happened, 1st last night Bill started scratching to go out but not for a pee, he had heard something splashing about and when we looked it was a stoat after the ducks.  The thing that happened was this afternoon as we were passing a tree where the birds were going crazy, what looked like a branch fell out of the tree into the canal.  Only it wasn't a piece of wood as it shook itself and swam to the bank - it was another stoat who promptly ran off.

Sunday 21st September 2008

Apparently Osney Lock in Oxford went YELLOW at 3pm yesterday so there are a lot of boats moving today to get off the Thames including Paul, Jo, Mike and Gerry though I think it will be chaos so I'm not going until tomorrow.  Took Bill on the long walk round into to town to get the papers and back via the Broad Face pub and who should turn up but Tad and Chris off Nb Tuppence together with three of the summer relief lock keepers who've finished for the year now, Dan the Hat, Kevin and his springer called Gerry (groan) of Nb Big Ben and Uncle of Only Fools and Horses.  Barking mad the lot of them but great fun.

Monday 22nd September 2008

Walked up to the town the long way again to get a few bits and pieces and set off at 9.30am.  Came up through the lock with a right nutter on a hireboat who said he is a Thames Lighterman more used to massive tugs and barges than narrowboats.  Never, he was all over the place and barking orders like the captain of the Titanic.  Sorted out the expired license at Abingdon Lock - 5 day extension free of charge cos of the floods.  Also watered up and pumped out courtesy of the mad hireboater who left a full card in the machine, thanks friend.  Oh he also tried to turn around and promptly got caught on the weir pillars after crashing into two other waiting boats.  Just as well he's going the other way!  Set off finally for Thrupp off the Thames and back onto the canals in lovely weather though the river is still flowing very strongly.  It seemed to take ages to get to Sandford Lock even though it's only 4 miles.  Usually cruise at 1400 rpm but had to go to 2500rpm to go against the stream.  Much calmer between Sandford and Ifley though very strong again through the narrow section between Folly Bridge in Oxford and Osney Lock and Bridge.  Good job I left it 'till today to move as there was CHAOS at Osney Lock yesterday as I suspected with boats coming down stream crashing into each other and getting stuck on the weirs opposite the lock.  Apparently a little row boat was crushed and a couple of people injured and one even ended up IN the canal.  Thankfully out of Oxford and on up through Port Meadows though here a sudden squall blew up with torrential rain as a final farewell to the Thames.  Finally back on little calm canals with single locks.  Tied up in Thrupp by 7.30pm in the dark. VERY LONG DAY over 10 hours cruising.  Took Bill for a couple of well earned beers in the Boat and was welcomed like a long lost brother, fantastic.

Tuesday 23rd September 2008

7.30am moved Beau off the bridge moorings onto a 7 day mooring space.  Dieseled up off a work boat passing through.  Walked down into Kidlington and got some oil for an engine service plus filters - £20 for 10 litres better than Halfords at £34 for the same amount.  Filters also less than half price.  Auto Parts of Kidlington if anyone is interested just behind the Wise Alderman pub.

Wednesday 24th September 2008

Walked Bill to Kidlington to the vets for his booster injections and also got some special (meaning very expensive!) flea and tick stuff plus worming tablets - no change out of £100 but he's worth every penny.  Came back via the fields and also picked up another 10 litres of oil and the extra filters.  Did the oil change in the afternoon.  A very productive day and a well earned few beers in the Boat.

Thursday 25th September 2008

Found another brilliant walk here in Thrupp, along the River Cherwell towards Kidlington and then back across the fields, about 5 miles altogether.  Cleaned the port side of the boat.  Took Bill for another walk and then to the Boat for a few beers and to say tarra to everyone 'till year after next, or next week, who knows?

Friday 26th September 2008

Set off for Lower Hayford after a walk into Kidlington.  Lovely weather, hot enough to even take my shirt off and sunbathe.  Canal is busy today with lots of boats moving so some delays at the locks.  Tied up and over to the Bell for early doors.  Excellent village pub, well worth a visit.

 

Saturday 27th September 2008

Walked Bill along the towpath and up through the village.  Set off for Aynho Wharf at 10am.  Caught up with a bunch of lads on a hire boat.  Good laugh.  Tied up by 2pm.  Went over to the Great Western pub at 3pm to be told they're closed 'till 6pm - ON A SATURDAY!!!!  However, back for 6pnm and a couple before dinner.

Sunday 28th September 2008

Set off for Cropredy by 9.30am.  Lovely cruise in fine weather.  Tied up by 4pm on the 14 day moorings and set off via the shop to the Brasenose and the Red Lion.  Had a good natter with a couple of guys off other boats.  Also John off the work boat Nebulae came in too.

Monday 29th September 2008

Walked Bill up the towpath passed the lock and back via the shop.  Cleaned the roof at long last and off to the Brasenose by 2pm.  The new landlord is a fascinating guy to talk to.  He used to own the Blues Rooms in Painswick, Gloucestershire which is famous for having most of the top line R&B band on of the time from both the UK and the USA.  Good afternoon remembering our formative musical years.

Tuesday 30th September 2008

Staying over another day, weather has turned wet and windy and it looks set for the week.  Walked Bill along the towpath and up to the Brasenose for a few.

Thursday 11th September 2008

Exactly what is it about me and rivers?  Every time I go near one it floods.  Maybe that's an omen, stay away from rivers!  The Thames is still on RED so still no movement.  The Little Red Breasted Merganser came back today to be fed and she chased off all the Mallards, good for her.

Hear are some photos of her.  She's only a chick as it seems her wings aren't fully formed yet.

 

River still on Red and it's still raining so here we stay yet another day.

Friday 12th September 2008

River still on red so Colin of tupperware boat Premiers Crus walked up to Warborough to explore the shop and the pubs, The Cricketers and the Six Bells.  Had a couple in the Cricketers.

Saturday 13th September 2008

Still stuck on red, usual routine with Bill around the lawns.  New boat turned up today from just above Benson Lock, Nb Tuppence with Tad and Chris on board.  Tad's the mooring officer for BW at The Rock of Gibralter moorings which are between Thrupp and Banbury.  Colin has now gone home as he has to go back to work on Monday.  Bill and I found a lovely walk up through lanes and narrow paths away from the main road to go to the Six Bells for a few.

Sunday 14th September 2008

STILL NO GO.  Walked up to the Cricketers for a few beers at 2pm.  Good natter in the bar.  Had a wonderful roast lamb sandwich - yum yum.

Monday 15th September 2008

Called up the Environment Agency rather than the locks as they have a picture of the whole of the Thames. According to then it "could" be Tuesday or Wednesday as long as there is no more rain.  More like Thursday or Friday!  All pubs closed today so quiet play day with Bill on the lawns.  Topped up the fresh water using my new containers, good job I got them eh?

Tuesday 16th September 2008

Guess what? yup still on RED.  Messed around the lawns with Bill and his new friend Ned a greyhound puppy, all ears and legs.  Adam and Claire arrived last night on Nb Chief Cornstalk.  Walked Bill up the lanes to the Six Bells.  Excellent summer (?) beer from Brakspears called Honey Bee.  Very refreshing.  Good giggle with the landlady and the barmaid.

Wednesday 17th September 2008

Adam, Claire and Ned and NB Chief Cornstalk have moved on even though all locks are still on RED.  Walked up the lanes to the shop at about 1pm and had a couple in the Six Bells on the way back.

 

Thursday 18th September 2008

No change on the river all still on RED.  According to EA could go YELLOW tomorrow.  Walked up to the shops and back via the Six Bells.

Friday 19th September 2008

Got a call from Sylvia at the EA all locks BAR Osney are now on YELLOW, yippee.  So quick walk round with Bill a cup and a flask of coffee and off we go.  Only heading for Abingdon today.  Took a while to get there as the currents are still very strong and instead of cruising at 1400rpm I was using 2000rpm to get ahead of the stream.  Finally tied up and went into to town to explore and do a bit of shopping.  Lovely old town with many very old buildings.  Had a few in the garden of the Nags Head and back to the boat. Guess who's also turned up, Paul and Jo off Nb Repent at Leisure and Mike and Gerry off Nb Tubbs, last seen at Woolhampton two weeks ago yesterday.  They got stuck on the Tesco mooring below Caversham Lock.  SO joined them for a few beers and some snacky bits.

Saturday 20th September 2008

Apparently Osney Lock and bridge are now passable and most of the boats are heading up there asap, it'll be chaos with all the boats waiting at the various locks so I'm waiting until Monday before I go any further.  Found a nice walk for us up to the lock and then through the park to the town centre.  Got the papers and went into the Broad Face for a few beers.  Excellent pub with excellent food too.  Got back to Beau to be invited to a BBQ with Paul, Jo, Mike and Gerry.  Good laugh again.

 

Monday 1st September 2008

Set off early to get to Hungerford today, 8 locks and 2 swing bridges.  Good cruise though very windy.  Moored above Hungerford Lock by 2pm.  Had a couple in the Plume of Feathers early doors and an early night.

Tuesday 2nd September 2008 - BIG BRUV'S BIRTHDAY TODAY

Happy birthday Big Bruv and hopefully all goes well on Friday for your final scan.  Set off at 8.20am for Newbury.  Watered up and pumped out at BW site.  Next lock, Dunmill Lock, met up with the family of mum, dad and three lovely girls (late teens early twenty's, cor!)  At first I thought I was seeing things - there seemed to be one of the girls in the water - and there was!  After I tied up at the lock mooring I went to see what was going on only to find that they had fouled their prop with the stern rope and she was trying to get it free.  "What about the weed hatch" I asked, "what weed hatch?" came the reply - they hadn't been shown or told anything about it.  So I showed them where it was which got the rope free in no time and the poor girl out of the water and in for a shower to warm up, poor bugger looked frozen (or was she just pleased to see me!!!)  Also saw Timothy West and his wife Prunella Scales at Kintbury.  Apparently Prunella Scales likens locks to women, whilst waiting for the lock, they give a little groan when they are ready!!!  Got to Newbury by 4pm to find Jim and Fi on Nb Epiphany already there.  Had a couple in Lock, Stock and Barrel early doors and an early night again.

Also saw this wonderful Red Kite soaring over the canal.  You can tell the difference between the Red Kite and the Buzzard because the Kite's tail is scooped inwards and the Buzzard's is rounded outwards.  Also the Kite has white marking under the outside edges of their wings.

To learn more about the Red Kite please click on this link

Wednesday 3rd September 2008

If I'd known what sort of day this was going to be I'd have stayed in bed.  It started well enoughish going through Newbury Lock being helped by a local nutter who insisted on opening both gates as he has to repair them when damaged (I don't think so!) however, the sun was shining and we were on our way. That is until we got to Ham Marsh Lock where with frantic waving from the bank I was pulled up short and had to tie up to two other boats already waiting with two in front also waiting.  Apparently kids had opened ALL FOUR PADDLES on the next lock down, Bulls Lock, and emptied the half mile pound in between completely where the BW lad Mike was franticly trying to refill it so we could all move on.  Two hours later the first two boats went through (30 mins) then the next two (30 mins) then me.  I took Mike down with me so that he could open the swing bridge for me and having got through that promptly grounded Beau just at the lock moorings.  Managed to get her refloated and through the lock OK.  On we go only to meet a chap I last saw by the Folly Pub on the Oxford Canal at the beginning of May.  As we carried on the condition of each lock got worse to the point of being down right dangerous and almost impossible to open single handed as in Midgham Lock.  Finally got tied up at the Row Barge moorings in Woolhampton by 6pm.  Couldn't get a phone signal by the boat so walked down to the pub to call Christine so we can meet up this evening.  Had a quick pint and back to the boat for a shower and change before meeting Christine at about 7pm.  Lovely evening, though I wasn't on top form cos I was knackered from today's events.  What a day, hay ho the joys of boating.

Thursday 4th September 2008

Set off to go through the dreaded Woolhampton lock and swing bridge but with the help of Paul and Jo off Nb Repent at Leisure and their family off Nb Stubbs they made it a doddle.  Going through Aldermaston Lock I was caught up by a couple on a tiny narrowboat called Nemo who between us worked all the locks and swing bridges all the way to Burghfield Bridge where they stopped.  I carried on down to Reading through the infamous County Lock which by comparison to my way up was very calm indeed.  Tied up by the Abbey by 3.30pm

 

 

Friday 5th September 2008

Weather is awful, however, set off to get through Blake's Lock and back onto the Thames.  Carried on up through Caversham Lock and dieseled up at Better Boating's yard at only 89p per litre.  Weather still awful and very gusty winds and even through all this managed to get to my target mooring of Shillingford Bridge.  All day the river has been running faster and faster with me going slower and slower.  What will it be like tomorrow.

Saturday 6th September 2008

ANSWER - NOTHING - all locks upstream are on RED which means the river is in flood and RISING (HELP NOT AGAIN) so it's too dangerous to try and move.  Spent the day, in between showers, playing with Bill although he's a bit under the weather he still chases the ball, bless him.

Sunday 7th September 2008

ALL LOCKS STILL ON RED so staying put and playing with Bill. We both feel better today (I put my back out yesterday but it's much better today)  though it's still raining on and off. Will here for a few more day's yet.

Monday 8th September 2008

Colin, Caroline, James and Simon and Max the dog are my only neighbours on a cruiser called Premiers Crus, although we forgive them being on a tupperware boat and not a proper narrowboat they are a smashing family and great company.  It was the dogs playing together that got us talking of course, meeting up outside each time the rain stopped.  Checked with Day's Lock again, still no go, ALL THE LOCKS ARE NOW ON RED.  Could be the weekend or even next week before I can move north and Colin south.  Took Bill for a long walk down the towpath to Wallingford, about three miles , to stock up on a few things and got the bus back.  We crossed over Benson Lock on the way and the lock mooring are completely underwater.

Also saw this lovely bird this evening a female Red Breasted Merganser

To learn more about the Red Breasted Merganser click on this link

Tuesday 9th September 2008

River still on RED and very showery.  Met up with Colin, Caroline and the boys in the hotel bar for a few beers - these are the first beers since Woolhampton last Thursday - ohh er going into withdrawal.  Excellent banter through the afternoon.  Caroline and the boys are being picked up by a friend later today so they can get home which leave Colin to look after the boat.  Don't think I'm giving state secrets away but Colin is a profiler for the police, similar to Cracker but in a form called geographical profiling of criminal movements and there patterns.  Absolutely fascinating.

Wednesday 10th September 2008

River still on RED.  Relatively quiet day today, took Bill for a walk along this bank of the river and played ball in between showers.  Dryer day altogether today, hopefully the start of the river receding.  Don't hold your breath!

Oh by the way this is the a picture of an Adder I saw recently up at Great Bedwyn, and I thought it was a grass snake!!!

For more information about Adders please click on this link

 

Friday 1st August 2008

Got a call from Henrik to say they're on their way and should be in Bedwyn Station by about 3.30pm.  Walked Bill the long walk up through the fields and back via the bakers and the shop.  Henrik and Susanne arrived spot on time at 3.30pm.  Just a short walk to the boat to get them settled in then off to the Cross Keys for a few beers and fish and chips - excellent.

Saturday 2nd August 2008

Walked Bill up via the church to the bakers and the shop.  Set off for Wooton Rivers at 10am.  Lovely weather and a nice short cruise to get the last visitor mooring above the lock in Wooton Rivers.  Had a few beers early doors in the Royal Oak, dinner back aboard and an early night.

Sunday 3rd August 2008

Short walk for Bill before dropping down through Wooton Rivers Bottom Lock, the last before Devizes.  Heading for Pewsey Wharf today.  Again a short cruise and tied up by 2pm and took the long walk into to town to stock up on a few things.  Had a few beers in the French Horn and a couple in Shag's Bar (The Waterfront) before dinner.

Monday 4th August 2008

Weather changing to wet and windy.  Set off for Honey Street by 10am and tied up by the Barge Inn by 12pm.  Quiet afternoon reading and snoozing out of the rain.  Early doors in the Barge with the strange people!!!!  Tacos for dinner, yum yum.

Tuesday 5th August 2008

Lousy weather but set off for Devizes by 10am.  Stopped off at the Bridge Inn for lunch and met up with Stuart again.  Moored up in Devizes in the pouring rain by 2.30pm.  Few beers in the Artichoke early doors and an early night.

Wednesday 6th August 2008

Weather improved slightly.  Took Henrik, Susanne and Bill down the Caen Hill flight of locks to show them what they have had to do given more time!  Back into town to explore and have a look around the Wadworth Brewery Visitor Centre.  Set off for the Bridge Inn about 1pm after watering up and pumping out.  Short cruise and tied up by 2.30pm in time for a quick beer and to book a table for this evening.  Good laugh with Stuart, Adrian and Nikki.  Nice evening.

Thursday 7th August 2008

Set off for Honey Street after walking Bill around the big meadow.  Spent the afternoon in the Barge with the spooky people.  No wonder this is the centre of the world for crop circles.

Here are some examples of designs that have "appeared" in field of wheat or barley etc. where the crops have been flattened down to make the patterns.  These apparently appear over night with "apparently" no knowledge of how they got there although many people think aliens are involved.  I think a lot of beer is involved if the truth be known!!!!

However they got there they are fantastic pieces of art.

For more information on Crop Circle click on this link

Friday 8th August 2008

Last leg with Henrik and Susanne.  Set off for Pewsey Wharf at about 10am.  Pleasant cruise in reasonable weather.  Tied up by 12pm.  Had a walk down to Pewsey to stock up on a few bits and pieces and a quick beer with Shag.  Had a major row with a pair of hotel boats who I'd crossed swords with before at Wooton Rivers when they literally barged me out of the way to get at the water point even though I was no where near.  And guess what they did it again so I gave them hell.  Good fun.  Early doors in the French Horn for dinner and back via Shag's for a few where I got a round of applause from all for having a go at the hotel boats cos they've been causing trouble all summer.

Saturday 9th August 2008

Up early to get Henrik and Susanne to the station in Pewsey for the 8.15am train to Reading where they get the bus to Heathrow.  Sad to see them go, wish we'd had better weather.  However, still had a great week just like old times when Henrik and I travelled together for work to the likes of Dubai, Beirut, Warsaw and Vilnius etc.  Always laughing whatever happened.  Great mates thanks for coming over and look forward to next year.

Sunday 10th August 2008

Walked Bill on his nature trail into town to get the papers.  Into the Waterfront for about 2pm.  Just about to leave after a couple but who should come in but Mark and Nicky - yahoo - feel a headache coming on.  Cor they've travelled for 9 hours in the pouring rain just to get here as a surprise.  Brilliant mates.

Monday 11th August 2008

Mark, Nicky, Bill and I set off for Devizes at about 9.30am, 12 miles but no locks and only two swing bridges.  Tied up at the wharf and set off to explore the town where Mark found a Witherspoon pub that had just opened today.  Chaos with all the new staff but worth it cos a pint of Pedigree is only £1.95!!!!!

Tuesday 12th August 2008

Back to Witherspoon for a full English breakfast for only £2.90 - can't be bad.  Spotted the Wadworth dray and the shire horses delivering to the Artichoke pub, wonderful sight.  Managed to get back and call Nicky in time for her to get some pics too.  Said our goodbyes as I'm going back to the Bridge tonight and they're off down Caen Hill and on to Bristol.  Good night in the Bridge again.  Said goodbye 'till 2010.

Wednesday 13th August 2008

Set off early after our long walk around the meadow.  Lousy weather again for the long cruise back to Pewsey Wharf and finally managed to get tied up at the Wharf on the moorings outside the Waterfront.  Met Mike and showed him around the boat and what needs doing while I'm away.  Met up again with Mike and Lynn in the French Horn for dinner.  What a great night lots of stories and jokes - excellent company.  Popped into Shag's for a nightcap with Jane and Graham.  Bill showed his appreciation by peeing the flag of St George!!! Sorry George and Graham.

Thursday 14th August to the 27th August - SUNDERLAND first time off Beau since moving on last year - very strange!

Sadly my brother has to go in to hospital next week so I'm going up to Sunderland to be with him for a few weeks.  Booked a hire car from Enterprise who came from Andover to collect me and take back to their office to sign all the appropriate documents.  Well this is an experience this is the first time I've driven a car for almost EIGHTEEN MONTHS - EEK.  Did the first ten miles at 5 MPH convinced the car was going to turn over at every bend.  Finally got up to 40 MPH argh Warp factor 9 lightspeed.  Six and a half hours later arrived in Sunderland.

Met up with all my old school mates and most days took Bill along the beach, which he thought was fantastic running in and out of the surf and in the Royal Marine pub.

 

 

Thursday 28th August 2008

Took the infernal combustion engine back.  Enterprise are excellent, very helpful and VERY CHEAP - about £12 a day!!!  Met Mike at the boat as I got back.  Met up with Mike and Lynn again for early doors for a few fair  well beers to say goodbye to them and to Jane and Graham and thank you for all your help and friendship.  Oh and Bill didn't pee on anything this time.

Friday 29th August 2008

Set off for Crofton in lovely weather, at last, at about 9.30am.  What's this strange contraption impeding my progress - oh yes it's a lock - haven't seen one of those for nearly a month.  Only 8 more to do and only a wide beam behind me so not much help there though they did close the lock gates after i left each one, thanks pals.  Got to Crofton by 3pm knackered but pleased to be on the move.  Walked Bill the mile or so to Wilton village and the Swan pub.  Chatted to a couple from New Zealand of a Nb called Beullah Ellen.  Pizza for dinner and an early night.

Saturday 30th August 2008

Set off for Great Bedwyn at about 9.30am just as another boat also cast off too - excellent - had help all the way down.  Walked Bill back to the lock and up through the church to the village for a couple in the Three Tuns and a swifty in the Cross Keys at 3pm.  Guess who's turned up, Basil and Jenny on Nb Wandering Star.  Jiggled the boats around and got him moored up for the night.

Sunday 31st August 2008

Took Bill on the long walk up through the fields and back via the church to the village to get the papers.  On the way saw what I thought was a grass snake basking in the sunshine only to find when I got back and looked it up it was actually a Viper which is venomous!!!!  Good job I didn't try and pick it up!!!!  Went up to the Three Tuns for Sunday lunch - fantastic - Rare Beef Sirloin cooked to perfection - heartily recommended.  Also bought some tickets for the famous Sunday meat draw.  Walked down to the Cross Keys to meet up with Basil and Jenny for a couple then they came back up to the Three Tuns for the meat draw and guess what I won twice this time, a pack of 18 Lincolnshire sausages, which I shared with Basil and Jenny and a massive rump steak which is ALL for me - yum yum.  Oh and David and Jen that I met at Cropston tied up along side me for the night.