Trevor and Bill's Adventures Aboard Nb Beau: Blog

1st September to the 10th September 2008 - Where's All This Water Coming From?

Wed, 10 Sep 2008 13:57:27 GMT

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

1st August to the 31th August 2008 Friends from Denmark and Friends from the Cut

Tue, 09 Sep 2008 19:23:47 GMT

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.

21st to the 31st July 2008 - Devizes, Brewery Visits and New Friends

Tue, 12 Aug 2008 08:38:06 GMT

Monday 21st July 2008

Explored Devizes after walking Bill right to the bottom lock (29) again. Lovely town with lots of interesting buildings and every type of shop you could need including a laundrette. Even got onto the internet at long last and posted all of Junes chapters. In the Artichoke for early doors and a takeaway curry from the Taste of Bengal - excellent food.

Tuesday 22nd July 2008

Took my laundry in where they charge £10 for a service wash - slightly different from Seend PO.!!! Found a lovely cafe with tables outside and Bill and I had coffee and a shared pannini, Bill being fussed over by everyone passing for being so well behaved (proud dad puffs out chest). Got back to Beau and who should come up the flight and tie up behind me but Steph on Nb Whichboy together with Bess. They had come up with another couple, Helen and John and their dog Grace on Nb Saul. All met up later in the Artichoke and had a great evening.

Wednesday 23rd July 2008

Nattering to Helen, John and Steph we met the BW enforcement officer Craig, who I last met in Bradford on Avon. He Knows about David and is happy for me to dawdle along. Went back to the coffee shop again and later found a shop that sells everything from a pin to an elephant, well almost. Got myself a new mop and a new bath mat, however, no sooner got them back than the mop disintegrated on first use and the mat is an awful colour so they'll have to go back tomorrow. Later met up with the gang and went on the Wadworth Brewery tour, fantastic and well worth the effort. Sampled many of the beers on the way out. All met up later in the Artichoke for a very jovial evening.

Wadworth Brewery is one of the last breweries still to use horse drawn carriages with shire horses to deliver their beer to pubs within a two mile radius of the brewery. We were lucky to see the magnificent horses, which ranged from 17 hands 3 to 18 hand 2 - massive beasts, as they go on holiday next week to a local village where they each get a pint of beer from the local pub and then caper about like mad things for a fortnight.

Wadworth Brewery also is the only brewery to have their own, in house, pub sign painting department which was fantastic and I was told that they would take commissions to paint signs on narrowboats. They also have the only full time brewery cooper making and repairing their barrels though he wasn't he today.

Thursday 24th July 2008

Was going to move on today, however, after returning faulty bits and doing a grand shop I decided to catch up on a few thing while I have internet access so will move on tomorrow instead. Fantastic open air market here on Thursdays with excellent veg, meat and fish. Took Bill for a walk down the towpath and into the Artichoke for early doors. It's also Dave the landlord's birthday and his wife, Ruth, had bought him a hat that looked like a birthday cake complete with candles. Excellent. Happy birthday Dave.

Friday 25th July 2008

Walked up to town to get milk and papers and had a coffee and a bagel for breakfast. Set off for Horton Bridge (No 134) and the Bridge Inn Moorings at 12pm. Slow cruise past many moored boats including one that had pulled it's mooring spikes out and slewed right across the canal effectively blocking it. Luckily there was a boat in front of me who were able to sort it out, it would have taken me ages on my own. Tied up outside the Bridge Inn at 2pm. Popped in for a couple early doors and saw Stuart, one of the landlords, and a bunch of other boaters.

Saturday 26th July 2008

Walked Bill right down to the next swing bridge then up through the fields to see if there was a shop in Horton. Sadly not so walked back through the fields, over the swing bridge, and up into Bishop's Canning and guess what, there's no shop there either! Just a pub, The Crown, and a church. On the way back to the boat saw three guys flying a model helicopter which was fantastic. Which reminds me, there have been two massive Chinook helicopters, the ones with the double rotors, have been ferrying soldiers all weekend to a massive army exercise on Salisbury Plain which isn't far from here and you can even hear the crump, crump of heavy artillery or tanks firing. Apparently over 6000 troops are involved, the largest exercise for many years.

Sunday 27th July 2008

Fantastic weather again today so walked Bill all the way back into Devizes to get the papers - cor didn't seem that far on the boat!!! about 5 miles altogether. Read the papers and into the Bridge for 2pm. Great afternoon with a gang of boaters and bikers. Also had a call from Mark and Nicky on Nb One Way Of Life just below Aldermaston and heading this way - eek I can feel a hangover coming on!

Monday 28th July 2008

Walked Bill over the road and around the meadow. On the way back a red dear doe calmly walked right in front of us across the field and down the path into a corn field and into the woods. Set off for Honey Street by 9.30am Lovely cruise in excellent weather and only two swing bridges to contend with. Had a few beers with a bunch of boaters and an early night.

Tuesday 29th July 2008

Short walk this morning before we set off for Pewsey Wharf. Only a short cruise but great weather again. Once moored took Bill on the long nature trail paths into town and back. Called into the Waterfront to see Graham (Shag's Bar) and to see when Jane, the moorings officer for BW, would be in so that I could talk to her about my impending trip to Sunderland when Dave goes into hospital. Saw her at 7pm and everything fine with leaving the boat here.

Wednesday 30th July 2008

Another short cruise today to Wooton Rivers, again in wonderful weather. Early doors in the Royal Oak with other boaters from the visitor moorings.

Thursday 31st July 2008

Nice cruise to Great Bedwyn today ready for Henrik and Susanne's arrival tomorrow. Buddied up with another boat with father, John, and son, Andrew, and did 13 locks and the Bruce Tunnel (500 yds) in pretty good time. Walked via the fields to the Three Tuns and back via the Cross Keys.

11th to the 20th of July 2008 - Black Thumbs, Three Ladies in a Boat and the Most Expensive Laundry in the World.

Thu, 24 Jul 2008 13:27:38 GMT

Friday 11th July 2008

Set off for Bradford on Avon by 9.30am. Dieseled up and replace the empty gas bottle at Hilperton Marina and had a good laugh with the lads at the expense of a hire boat getting into all sorts of trouble. Just manage to get the centre line tied off when the heavens opened and got absolutely soaked in seconds and rushing to get below jammed my left thumb in the stern steel doors - OUCH THAT STINGS - or words to that effect! Lovely black throbbing thumb now. Bugger. When the rain and Noah had gone I finished off mooring. Wandered up to the Canal Tavern for a sample - Indian takeaway over the road so it's got to be done. Few beers early doors after a big shop at Sainsbury's then an Indian - yum yum.

Saturday 12th July 2008

Walked Bill down the towpath to Bradford Swing bridge then back along the banks of the River Avon. Bumbled around for a bit then after getting a paper from Sainsbury's went off to the Canal Tavern for a couple. Helped three girls on a hire boat through the lock on the way back. This being their first lock they looked terrified but managed no problems, well done girls.

Sunday 13th July 2008

Walked Bill up to Sainsbury's for the papers and back all the way via the swing bridge and the river. Moved Beau down through the lock and tied up at Avoncliff. Went into the Cross Guns for the pm at 2pm. Very busy outside but quiet inside so read the papers in peace. Excellent pub with many real ales from their own and other breweries.

Monday 14th July 2008

Walked Bill from Avoncliff all the back up to Sainsbury's along the river bank, about 5 miles round trip. Managed to get hold of David after his hospital appointment. Bad news I'm afraid, David has cancer and needs to go into hospital soon. The good news is they think they have found the problem in time. So hopefully David will make a full recovery. Lets Hope to god he does. Will take Beau down to Dundas Wharf to turn and start the journey back along the Kennet and Avon. As soon as David hears when he has to go into hospital I can then make arrangements to get back to Sunderland to be with him. It may mean that Henrik and Susanne will have Beau to themselves. Also spoke to Mike off Nb Weasel and he may be able to get Beau onto the private wharf at Pewsey where he will be happy to keep an eye on her for me. Cheers matey. After all this went to the Cross Guns and got almost into the same state as David was!!!!

Tuesday 15th July 2008

Took Beau down to Dundas Wharf and turned around and tied up below the lock in Bradford on Avon for the night and had a couple of beers in the Tavern.

Wednesday 16th July 2008

Had a good long walk down to the swing bridge and back up to Sainsbury's for the papers. Met Basil and Jenny on Nb Wandering Star. Arranged to meet them later in the Tavern for a beer or two. Great company and a very pleasant evening.

Thursday 17th July 2008

Lovely weather today. Took Bill down to the swing bridge and back along the riverside. Set off up through Bradford Lock by 10am heading for the Barge Inn at Seend. Passed the three girls I helped the other night near Semington and had a crack about them still being afloat. Got to the Barge by 2pm and tied up for the night and the three girls turned up so had a long natter with them and a beer or two in the Barge.

Friday 18th July

Collected my laundry from the PO - £32!!!!! - could have bought a machine for that!!! At least Dick Turpin wore a mask. Set off for Sells Green which is only a couple of miles down the canal. Took Bill for a long walk and collected my post. Back to the Tree Magpies and fish and chips for dinner. Great banter in the bar.

Saturday 19th July 2008

Took Bill all the way back to the second swing bridge and up to the PO for a paper. Lovely long walk. Over to the Magpies later for a scoop or two.

Sunday 20th July 2008

Time to brave the Caen Locks again. So took Bill early up through the fields for a walk and got away by 8am. Got to the bottom lock, No 22, by 8.30am and got through the first seven single handed by 10am. Then having just got into the bottom lock of the 16Caen locks, No 29, I was joined by another boat, Nb Tiger Lily, who had about 4 crew setting the locks for both boats and as we went up they were joined by more and more family and friends the result being I didn't set foot off the boat or touch a lock all the way up - FANTASTIC - thanks one and all. Almost felt guilty, well almost! Got to the top in record time of under three hours and finally tied up in Devizes Wharf by 2pm. That certainly is the way to do the Caen locks. Went off into to town and did a mini shop then off to the Artichoke for early doors for almost a well earned beer (not).

1st July to the 10th July 2008 - Strange Pubs, Crop Circles and Massive Lock Flights

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 14:48:12 GMT

Tuesday 1st July 2008

Off around the nature trail again with Bill and took two PC games back to the Coop cos they wouldn't load up onto my laptop. Nearly had a major row with the manager because I didn't have the receipt, however, with very good grace (NOT) he gave me back my tenner. Set off for Honey Street by 10am - only 4 miles and no locks. Tied up outside the Barge Inn by 12pm. Dieseled up on the way at Gibson's Boatyard - diesel's gone up from 71p a litre on the 9th June in Aldermaston to 97p a litre today! Explored the towpath with Bill and then explored the Barge at about 2pm. STRANGE PUB! - lovely to look at and plenty of character features, however, the CHARACTERS in the pub were another matter. Very clicky - non communicative and mostly pissed. The landlady is something else altogether - VERY GRUMPY - and difficult with innocent customers who dare to comment about the quality or quantity of food served. Had dinner on the boat and didn't bother going back that evening.

Wednesday 2nd July 2008

Walked Bill along the towpath and back via an equestrian and pet food store. Bill's in heaven! Got him some treats and back to the boat. Guess who should knock on my window but Linda who had driven to the pub and was waiting for Ray on Nb Morning Mist who was coming back from Devizes. Once Ray had tied up we all met up for a beer early doors in the Barge. Still a weird atmosphere. Nice evening though nattering. Oh by the way this village is the WORLD CENTRE for CROP CIRCLES - weird bunch maybe that explains the pub?

Thursday 3rd July

Set off for Horton Bridge No 134 and the Bridge Inn. Good cruise which at times was like being on the African Queen where the reeds closed the channel to single file. Excellent moorings outside the pub. Took Bill over the road into a corn field where he had a great time chasing rabbits and bouncing up and down looking for me. Popped into the Bridge Inn for a quick beer on the way back. Totally different atmosphere to the Barge. Friendly, welcoming and chatty, Adrian and his wife Nikki, the landlord and landlady, are boaters so we got on straight away. Back in early doors and met a chap who restores antiques, wonder if he do anything for my brother? He was just like Andy Raffle in outlook , style and attitude, brill bloke. Must be the country air, great day all in all.

Friday 4th July 2008

Today is the day I'm going to brave the Caen Hill flight of locks out of Devizes - 29 locks in 2 1/2 miles!!! Argh - Set off at 9.30am having walked Bill through the cornfield where he had to jump up and down to see me - daft dog. Slow cruise to Devizes because of moored boats - only 2 miles but took 1 1/2 hours and no locks or swing bridges. Saw Basil and Jenny off Nb Wandering Star and hat a natter whilst waiting in the top lock, No. 50, for another boat to join me on the trip down. Much excitement on the towpath between London Road Bridge No 138 and Park Bridge No 139 as it was closed by Police tape marking it as a crime scene. Couldn't see Grissom but there were lots of Bobbies about. Found out later that a youth had been stabbed two nights earlier. Also going into Devizes Wharf the firebrigade were trying to fish a women out of the canal who had lost control of her electric cart - what a start! Hope nothing else happens. Waited for 1/2 an hour for another boat and off we went down Caen Hill. Sadly they only did three locks and stopped by the Black Horse pub. I did the next 4 locks on my own and then saw another boat coming down so I waited another 30 minutes for them. We went down the next 15 locks together, good laugh and a great help - also got held up for 45 minutes by BW letting the water levels DOWN? Too much water???? This couple then stopped at the bottom of the Caen hill flight and I carried on through the next 7 locks on my own again to tie up at Sells Green by 7.30pm. What a day, off to the Tree Magpies for a few beers - reckon I've earned them today. Cor can hardly walk - I'm knackered - and I've got to go BACK UP in a few weeks.

Saturday 5th July 2008

Long walk along the towpath and up to the Village to explore. Nothing much here but the pub and a massive caravan park. Found a great walk along the towpath and back through the fields to come out at the pub! spooky! better go and have a beer then. Met some lovely couples, two who have a boat and two who are thing of buying a boat. So we had a great afternoon talking everything boats. The couple thinking of buying a boat are now definitely going to - I should have been a salesman - oh I was!

Sunday 6th July 2006 - Bill and Yvonne's Wedding Anniversary today in Los Angeles.

Happy anniversary both. Rained all night and up 'till 11am. Took Bill up through the fields for a long walk. Staying over today, too wet to move. Off to the Magpies for 2pm.

Monday 7th July 2008

Finally moved on today, however, only going about two miles to just above lock No 18 right opposite The Barge Inn. Took Bill for a long walk back down to the last swing bridge and then up a lovely wooded path into the village of Seend. Lovely walk to the PO and village store. Back to the Barge for early doors and Basil and Jenny have just tied up in the same pound. So they came over for a few beers too. Good eve's banter.

Tuesday 8th July 2008

Good walk again up into Seend about 3 miles round trip which Bill loves cos there's no need for a lead. Early doors again with Bas and Jenny. Lovely evening.

Wednesday 9th July 2008

Weather appalling so not moving today either. Asked if Basil and Jenny wanted anything from the shop - milk only - so off we go - suitably dressed with all our rain gear on including Bill's coat which I think he quite likes now. Also took a load of washing which can be done there too. By the time we got to the shop Bill's head and tail were soaked as was I but also inside from sweating so much up the hill. Took a short cut back - should have known better - turned back after 2 miles with the canal in the opposite direction!!!! Well once you wet through you can't get any wetter. Early doors again, good fun.

Thursday 10th July 2008

Set off on an epic voyage of all of two miles to Semmington. Tied up and explored the village and horror of horrors, the pub, The Somerset Arms, won't let Bill in - so they can stick their beer. Off around the fields instead and a lovely evening in.

21st to the 30th June 2008 - Bathing Competitions, Meat Draws and Magic!

Mon, 21 Jul 2008 14:50:25 GMT

Saturday 21st June 2008

Usual walk up the towpath and through the fields, across the railway line and up into the village. Walked a shorter version of that in the afternoon on the way to the Three Tuns and then back via the Cross Keys. Bit of excitement on the towpath tonight, firstly Bill fell in even though it had been me who'd had a drink! and then at about 2pm a man, rather the worse for a drink or three also fell in, though the paramedics and police had to be called out to shift him. He's now in Swindon General Hospital with a broken and dislocated shoulder!

Sunday 22nd June 2008

VERY WINDY & GUSTY DAY - too dangerous to move Beau single handed so staying put. Took Bill on up through the fields and to the village to get the papers. Read them and got to the Three Tuns for 2pm where Stuart, who's mate fell in the cut last night was in so we had a good natter and laugh at his mates expense. I treated myself to Sunday Lunch and had venison which was fantastic. The Tuns also have a meat draw every Sunday so armed with a fivers worth of tickets each we waited for the draw. Guess who's ticket was first out, yippee mine!!!! got a fabulous leg of lamb worth at least £10, and guess who's ticket was second out, yup, one of Stuart's and he got a joint of beef. He won again too and took a joint of pork as well!!! Met the previous landlord who still lives in the village who was an actor in things like London's Burning and the Bill etc, however, still can't remember his surname though I can remember Mike. Called into the Cross Keys on the way back to the boats and met up with a whole group of boaters including a lady tattoo artist who's husband was excellent at magic tricks. There was also a charity day in the village where people had to find the flower pot men hidden around the village and the people running it were just counting up their takings and awarding prizes when Stuart donated the joint of pork for an instant raffle which kindly raised £25 extra for them. That's the sort of people boaters are. Excellent afternoon, fantastic company.

Monday 23rd June 2008

Took Bill on the long walk to get the papers and a few bits and pieces. Finally go to cast off at about 10am only to stop within a hundred yards to water up and pump out -£15 teehee - Buddied up with another boat through the locks to tie up at the visitor moorings by Crofton Steam Pumping Station. Tied up by 2pm and who should be here but Nb Wandering Star with Basil and Jenny - First met in Newbury then latterly in Great Bedwyn. Took Bill up to the Pumping Station though he wasn't very interested but I had a look around. Fantastic machinery and to think it still works and does exactly what it designed to do in the early eighteen hundreds, working bank holidays and special days for the public to see. They even had a generator built by the Sunderland Forge would you believe? Lovely walk along the side of Wilton Water to Wilton village, about a mile, and up to the Swan Inn for early doors where Basil and Jenny joined me later. Lovely evening and stroll back to the boats.

Tuesday 24th June 2008

Staying here today as it's so peaceful (well apart from the odd High Speed Train!) and the weather is fab. So outside today and cleaned the windows and generally tidied up. Saw a female Goldeneye diving bird (small duck) with three tiny chicks. Most unusual eyes, bright yellow, hence the name. Sadly all day mum had been trying to get the chicks out of the canal into Wilton Water lake with no success and on one occasion as she left them they were attacked by a gaggle of young Canada geese and killed. Mum spent all afternoon paddling up and down calling for them. I finally found them by another boat and removed them from the canal and put them in the hedge out of the way. Can't nature be cruel? Strolled over to the Swan for early doors at 6pm. Lovely lamb roast for dinner (I cut it up into three lots, froze one and will have a curry tomorrow night).

Wednesday 25th June 2008 - SECOND ANIVERSARY OF MUM'S PASSING

Hope your OK mum. Also it's MARK'S BIRTHDAY of Nb One Way Of Life - Happy birthday matey. VERY WINDY DAY and very overcast so staying put today again. Walked Bill halfway to the village in the morning and then in the afternoon we walked down to lock 61, turned right and walked right up and over the hill and on up to the famous Wilton Windmill. Fantastic views and a fantastic building which still works when it's open to the public. Came back via the village and down through the fields to Beau. Off to the Swan for early doors at 6pm and that curry I talked about, yum yum.

Thursday 26th June 2008 - WOULD HAVE BEEN DAD'S 88TH BIRTHDAY TODAY

Happy birthday dad. Walked Bill up through the fields and set off for Wooton Rivers at about 9.30am. 9 locks today, 6 up then a long pound the 3 down to tie up above lock 51 for the night and guess who's already here, Basil and Jenny and later Ray and Linda turned up with little Molly who promptly scratched my leg - ouch sharp puppy claws. Spent the evening in a wonderful 16th C pub called the Royal Oak with Basil and Jenny, unfortunately Linda wasn't well so they couldn't make it.

Friday 27th June 2008

Came down through lock 51 with Ray and Linda, Basil and Jenny had already left at 5.30am???? Set off for Pewsey Wharf at 9am no more locks now until Devizes. Tied up in Pewsey at 12.30pm and went off to explore Pewsey which is about a mile south of the canal. Big Coop, a bank, antique shops and a Vet. So went in to get some proper worming tablets. Bill had to be weighed and the last time I did it he was 18 kilos having gained 3 kilos since I adopted him. WELL, he's now 23.5 kilos - FATTY BILL - and I got told off for giving him too many treats. He should eat carrots she said - oh yeah! - so I gave him a gravy bone instead. Well he doesn't look fat to me. Went into the Waterfront for a sneaky beer and ended up in 'Shag's Bar' - honest that's Graham, the landlord's nickname. Met a group of other boaters and had a very jolly afternoon.

Saturday 28th June 2008

Found a lovely walk back down the towpath to Pains Bridge, avoiding the main road , then down through a nature reserve called Jone's Mill and into Pewsey via Way's Way nature reserve. Excellent. Shopped in the Coop and back the same way to the boat. Walked over to the French Horn pub for a couple and met the Ausie couple who run the pub and came back via Shag's!

Sunday 29th June 2008

Took Bill on the nature trail to get the Sundays. Back the same way and breakfast and a good read of the papers. Went over to the French Horn for a couple and back via Shag's again. Mike and Lynn text to say they were back in Pewsey so arranged to meet up tomorrow evening in the French Horn. Came back via Shag's and who should be at the water point but Steph on Nb Whitchboy, last seen in Braunston at the beginning of May. As there were no mooring left I suggested she tie up along side Beau and join me for a beer in Shag's Bar which she did and a very good afternoon was had catching up on our exploits.

Monday 30th June 2008

Took Bill on our nature romp and did a top up shop. Had a couple of beers about 2pm in the French Horn with Steph and a pal of hers from Spain called Peter. Met Mike and Lynn about 6.30pm and had something to eat there. Steph joined us a little later and a grand old chinwag was had by all.