Sunday, September 14, 2008
Home to High Wycombe
On Friday evening we had an enjoyable meal aboard the boat with Lin and Roy. We were moored at Great Linford on the excellent 48 hour moorings. On Saturday, it was a bright and sunny start to the day, the first we have had for many days. I washed and waxed the side of the boat and cleaned the brasses. Tom and Lisa arrived by car to take over the boat for a few days. We left in their car to return home. We made it in time to get to Adam's Park in time for the second half of the game against Brentford. Unfortunately we could only manage a draw. We then went home to tackle the mountain of accumulated post.
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Friday, September 12, 2008
Two Tunnels and The Home Straight
On Saturday it was pouring with rain again in the morning so we stayed put until about 12.45.Cruised through Kingswood Junction where we saw nb Gilbert, last seen at Thrupp on 8th August and also nb Bright Angel, last seen at Hawkesbury junction on 28th August. Moored up on moorings just before the Hatton flight, ready to descend on Sunday.
It was a dull dank start to the day on Sunday, but we decided to move on and tackle the 21 locks. We teamed up with a small nb from the River Wey navigation, occupied by Elaine and Bruce. We descended the flight in 3hours 45mins and then continued on through two more locks, arriving at Tesco in Warwick in time to shop before closing time. On BBC news we heard about the murder on a nb at Stoke Hammond. On Monday we continued on our way alone to begin with. Gilbert caught up with us just as we were finishing lunch near the Cutttle Locks. Unfortunately they were just mooring up for the day as they had come down the Hatton flight that morning. They have also been beset by problems, having had their gear box break down and other problems. That combined with the bad weather has led them to return to home base.
Teamed up with a couple on Anglo Welsh nb Bunbury. They had not been pleased with their boat, finding it dirty, damp and with leaking windows-not good in the weather we had been having. Most hire boaters we have spoken to this year have been really pleased with their boats so it is unfortunate this couple had been unlucky. We travelled on with them, their son and their two dogs to the Stockton Flight and went up in double quick time due to teamwork with the two women steering in and out of the locks together and the men working the paddles and gates. We moored up just beyond Norton Junction.
On Tuesday we cruised to Braunston and teamed up with nb Harry, a Kate boat, to go through the locks. Followed them through the tunnel, completed in 27minutes and continued with them through the first lock on the Buckby Flight. They continued on, but we moored up for the night. They were crewed by a taxi driver and his partner, her daughter and daughter’s boyfriend, both jockeys.
On Wednesday we joined up with nb Patience, Liberty and Soak of Peterborough for the descent of the rest of the Buckby Flight. A couple from Peterborough own the boat. She hails from Alma Road and he from south of the river near the football ground. They live aboard and had been out cruising since April. They too have had their troubles. Their engine had been giving them trouble and had cut out when they were in a tricky position in high winds. The boat had spun round and been bashed into a high wall causing considerable damage to their paintwork. I bought a new chimney and witches hat at Whilton Chandlery. We stopped at \Heyford wharf to buy diesel, grease and toilet blue. At Weedon we pass nb Lilly Mae, Jasper, John and Bridget, our neighbours from Vicarage Farm. They were just starting their three week cruise. Later we saw nb Harry, returning north. We moored up in Blisworth about 7pm superbly positioned to go through the tunnel the next day.
It was raining again in the morning, so we didn’t set off too early. We were flagged down when we approached the tunnel and had to wait about an hour whilst two wide BW boats came through the tunnel. Moored alongside Willow Dreamer, crewed by a couple, Stuart and Trish, and dog, Will, from Cornwall. We were later joined by Nirvana, from Yardley Gobian. When the boats came out they were followed by a stream of nb which had progressed very slowly behind them through the tunnel. They had taken an hour and a half to get through. We followed Nirvana though the tunnel, followed by willow dreamer and had an excellent journey through, taking only 35 minutes and passing only one boat. We descended first two Stoke Bruerne Locks with Nirvana and the following 5 with Willow Dreamer. Trish and Stuart have also had their trouble, having been caught on a damaged sill in a lock and damaging their rudder and tiller. There also seems to be water now getting into the engine compartment through their weed hatch. We both filled up with water at the bottom lock and then cruised on to Cosgrove where we moored opposite the Barley Mow. I cleaned the side of the boat whilst David did the deck. As we were nearly at MK we contacted Roy and Lin to arrange a meet for our last night aboard.
We cruised on to MK mooring at the excellent 48 hour moorings at Great Linford after a short stop at Wolverton to stock up at Tesco.
Sunday, September 7, 2008
Friday, September 5, 2008
A Catalogue of Problems
Since my last posting such a lot has happened, not all of it good, but we are in good cheer despite some heart stopping moments.just before Atherstone David discovered two leaking water hoses from the engine and calorifier. because he keeps the engine compartment dry and clean the water collected made it obvious something was amiss. The hoses had been rubbing against a metal lip and eventually this had worn holes. We descended the first 6 locks at Atherstone and moored at the fuel point of the premises of Barry Hawkins at Baddesley Basin. From there we were well placed to visit the town with its many bookshops and historic buildings. On Sunday morning Barry’s son, Tony, fixed our two split water hoses. They are such pleasant people, very helpful and who said we could stay as long as we needed to. In the afternoon we had a pleasant walk up the canal and followed the town trail until the rain began again. That evening we shared a bottle of Prosecco to celebrate the official date of my retirement.
On Monday, Richard, from Cox Automotive, arrived to re install our travel pack and generator. In doing so he identified and rectified a couple of wiring faults and also found that our leisure batteries needed renewing. Richard agreed to organise this and to meet us later to do the change over. The weather was pleasant so we decided to move on and descend the remaining 5 locks of the flight. As might be expected we had no sooner begun than the heavens opened and we were soaked. We carried on until the bottom lock as there was nothing to lose: we couldn’t get any wetter. We moored opposite the services and car park with wharf near bridge 48. There we stayed until late on Tuesday as it was ideal for Richard to access the boat when he brings the new batteries. He came in late afternoon and, after the batteries were installed, we cruised on to Polesworth. From Friday to Tuesday night we had covered about 4 miles!
Wednesday arrived bright and sunny, but chilly and we set off at 8.40, cruising through Polesworth in good weather. Later in the day, rain showers began and continued on and off for most of the day. The square end on our boat, plus a strong side wind, made the turn into the Birmingham and Fazeley Canal at the junction very tricky. The impatience of other boaters, desperate to continue straight on to Fradley, unable to await for a moment or so didn’t help. The selfishness of some boaters never ceases to amaze me. We continued through the beautifully kept locks up the Curdworth Flight of 11 locks, beginning in fine weather but before long in heavy rain. The highlight was probably the sight of a peregrine falcon swooping over the boat, coming from the direction of the M42 towards a wood nearby.
On Thursday we started out towards Birmingham during a dry start to the day, but before long the rain came again. The cruise took us down the grand Union Canal, through an urban area of Birmingham and we were doing well, making good time, locks in our favour thanks to a nb travelling north, when we lost propulsion and the steering. In pouring rain David had to access the weed hatch and extract a once white sweater, with zip, a purple rain coat, with zip and various bits of fishing line.. Continuing on we stopped briefly at the top of Camp Hill Locks to inspect the excellent BW facilities. The centre included toilets, showers and laundry as well as the usual rubbish and sanitary disposal points. It is such a pity that it has to be secured behind a huge fence, spikes and padlocks to safeguard it, but such is life in 2008. Cruised on through shady tree lined cutting, reminiscent of the Tring Summit in some respects, and moor up at Catherine de Barnes. On the evidence of what we saw on this stretch, graffiti, litter, damage, the canals are not valued by local people in the area. Given the amount of material in the water, some floating and some just below the surface it is perhaps surprising we only had a fouled propeller once.
Today, Friday, with an horrendous weather forecast we thought we would probably sit tight all day, play scrabble, visit the local shop and maybe pub and hope for better weather tomorrow. David, however, was never good at doing nothing so we end up braving the elements at about 4.30 and moving towards Knowle. There were no other boats moving so after filling up with water at the top lock, we descended the flight and moored beyond Black Boy Bridge just after 7.30, having seen Snail’s Pace on her mooring at the Black Buoy Cruising Club. Being on the lock flight was a bit like being on many piers with water rushing down both sides. the deep pounds between each lock were also very full due to all the rain we have had. Having had a wet day, and it not turning out too badly, I can only sympathise with my colleagues from school who have probably had indoor play and lunch today!
On Monday, Richard, from Cox Automotive, arrived to re install our travel pack and generator. In doing so he identified and rectified a couple of wiring faults and also found that our leisure batteries needed renewing. Richard agreed to organise this and to meet us later to do the change over. The weather was pleasant so we decided to move on and descend the remaining 5 locks of the flight. As might be expected we had no sooner begun than the heavens opened and we were soaked. We carried on until the bottom lock as there was nothing to lose: we couldn’t get any wetter. We moored opposite the services and car park with wharf near bridge 48. There we stayed until late on Tuesday as it was ideal for Richard to access the boat when he brings the new batteries. He came in late afternoon and, after the batteries were installed, we cruised on to Polesworth. From Friday to Tuesday night we had covered about 4 miles!
Wednesday arrived bright and sunny, but chilly and we set off at 8.40, cruising through Polesworth in good weather. Later in the day, rain showers began and continued on and off for most of the day. The square end on our boat, plus a strong side wind, made the turn into the Birmingham and Fazeley Canal at the junction very tricky. The impatience of other boaters, desperate to continue straight on to Fradley, unable to await for a moment or so didn’t help. The selfishness of some boaters never ceases to amaze me. We continued through the beautifully kept locks up the Curdworth Flight of 11 locks, beginning in fine weather but before long in heavy rain. The highlight was probably the sight of a peregrine falcon swooping over the boat, coming from the direction of the M42 towards a wood nearby.
On Thursday we started out towards Birmingham during a dry start to the day, but before long the rain came again. The cruise took us down the grand Union Canal, through an urban area of Birmingham and we were doing well, making good time, locks in our favour thanks to a nb travelling north, when we lost propulsion and the steering. In pouring rain David had to access the weed hatch and extract a once white sweater, with zip, a purple rain coat, with zip and various bits of fishing line.. Continuing on we stopped briefly at the top of Camp Hill Locks to inspect the excellent BW facilities. The centre included toilets, showers and laundry as well as the usual rubbish and sanitary disposal points. It is such a pity that it has to be secured behind a huge fence, spikes and padlocks to safeguard it, but such is life in 2008. Cruised on through shady tree lined cutting, reminiscent of the Tring Summit in some respects, and moor up at Catherine de Barnes. On the evidence of what we saw on this stretch, graffiti, litter, damage, the canals are not valued by local people in the area. Given the amount of material in the water, some floating and some just below the surface it is perhaps surprising we only had a fouled propeller once.
Today, Friday, with an horrendous weather forecast we thought we would probably sit tight all day, play scrabble, visit the local shop and maybe pub and hope for better weather tomorrow. David, however, was never good at doing nothing so we end up braving the elements at about 4.30 and moving towards Knowle. There were no other boats moving so after filling up with water at the top lock, we descended the flight and moored beyond Black Boy Bridge just after 7.30, having seen Snail’s Pace on her mooring at the Black Buoy Cruising Club. Being on the lock flight was a bit like being on many piers with water rushing down both sides. the deep pounds between each lock were also very full due to all the rain we have had. Having had a wet day, and it not turning out too badly, I can only sympathise with my colleagues from school who have probably had indoor play and lunch today!
Friday, August 29, 2008
Hillmorton Rugby and Hawkesbury
Friday 9th August
The day starts hot and sunny. Bought bag of Taybright from canal trader, £7.40. Hoping not to need it, but always good to have a supply against chilly evenings.
School starts again after the weekend so the weather will probably perk up then.
Thursday 28th August
Left Rugby at 9.45 and stopped at Old Oaks Wood for breakfast. Continued on to Sutton’s Stop at Hawkesbury arriving at 15.30 for a late lunch. I cleaned the port side of MORE and cleaned brasses and mopped deck. Exercise needed to enable a good night’s sleep. Met couple from NB Bright Angel, from Slimbridge and discussed problems with travel packs. Also met couple from Lancashire, South port supporters, last in the league in 1978.
Wednesday 27th August
Set off about 11.00, cruising to Hillmorton Locks. Medeieval field patterns much in evidence through this rural stretch. Went through the 3 locks without incident with help from 3 local girls and cruised on to Rugby. Went to Tesco for supplies. Bought replacement frying pan. Spent part of evening talking to couple from Ilkeston, Derbyshire out cruising on NB The Oak.
The day starts hot and sunny. Bought bag of Taybright from canal trader, £7.40. Hoping not to need it, but always good to have a supply against chilly evenings.
School starts again after the weekend so the weather will probably perk up then.
Thursday 28th August
Left Rugby at 9.45 and stopped at Old Oaks Wood for breakfast. Continued on to Sutton’s Stop at Hawkesbury arriving at 15.30 for a late lunch. I cleaned the port side of MORE and cleaned brasses and mopped deck. Exercise needed to enable a good night’s sleep. Met couple from NB Bright Angel, from Slimbridge and discussed problems with travel packs. Also met couple from Lancashire, South port supporters, last in the league in 1978.
Wednesday 27th August
Set off about 11.00, cruising to Hillmorton Locks. Medeieval field patterns much in evidence through this rural stretch. Went through the 3 locks without incident with help from 3 local girls and cruised on to Rugby. Went to Tesco for supplies. Bought replacement frying pan. Spent part of evening talking to couple from Ilkeston, Derbyshire out cruising on NB The Oak.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Good Bye Snails Pace
Tuesday 26th August
Continue descent of Napton flight. Snails Pace follows behind with the children and their parents lending a hand. Do essential jobs at sanitary station and visit the excellent shop at the bottom lock. Receive a glancing blow from a Willow Wren NB which was coming out of the bottom lock. No apology offered by non English speaking crew. This was the same boat which closed the gates on an ascending boat at the second lock up, stealing their water and making them wait an additional 15 minutes. What it gained them is incomprehensible as they still had to wait for the bottom lock! Then, to cap it all they just moored at the bottom for a drink. MAD. Wave goodbye to Snails Pace as we continue towards Braunston and the North Oxford Canal. See Eric Openshaws boat moored at Braunston. Cruise on and moor just past bridge 87 in a pleasant location. 6 locks only today.
Monday 25th.
Set off about mid day and have an almost perfect ascent of the Claydon Locks. Follow two other boats through Fenny Compton tunnel, making it an easy passage. Could not take on water at Fenny Compton as some selfish boater had moored between both water taps and gone off somewhere leaving their boat. Cruise through a most beautiful section to Napton. Arrive at top lock to find NB Snails Pace taking on water. Stop for a chat and take on water also. Moor after three of the locks behind Snails Pace. Rebecca and Lauren vist our boat. Poor Lauren had sore fingers having trapped then in the front door of Snails Pace.
Sunday 24th August
A wet start to the day. Cruise to Cropredy where stock up on essential supplies. Ascend 3 more locks and moor below Claydon bottom lock.
Continue descent of Napton flight. Snails Pace follows behind with the children and their parents lending a hand. Do essential jobs at sanitary station and visit the excellent shop at the bottom lock. Receive a glancing blow from a Willow Wren NB which was coming out of the bottom lock. No apology offered by non English speaking crew. This was the same boat which closed the gates on an ascending boat at the second lock up, stealing their water and making them wait an additional 15 minutes. What it gained them is incomprehensible as they still had to wait for the bottom lock! Then, to cap it all they just moored at the bottom for a drink. MAD. Wave goodbye to Snails Pace as we continue towards Braunston and the North Oxford Canal. See Eric Openshaws boat moored at Braunston. Cruise on and moor just past bridge 87 in a pleasant location. 6 locks only today.
Monday 25th.
Set off about mid day and have an almost perfect ascent of the Claydon Locks. Follow two other boats through Fenny Compton tunnel, making it an easy passage. Could not take on water at Fenny Compton as some selfish boater had moored between both water taps and gone off somewhere leaving their boat. Cruise through a most beautiful section to Napton. Arrive at top lock to find NB Snails Pace taking on water. Stop for a chat and take on water also. Moor after three of the locks behind Snails Pace. Rebecca and Lauren vist our boat. Poor Lauren had sore fingers having trapped then in the front door of Snails Pace.
Sunday 24th August
A wet start to the day. Cruise to Cropredy where stock up on essential supplies. Ascend 3 more locks and moor below Claydon bottom lock.
Sunday, August 24, 2008
To Wycombe Wanderers
Saturday 23rd August
Travelled to High Wycombe by train and used supporters bus to get to Adams Park. Picked up our season ticket card and met up with Tom and Lisa to see the game against Lincoln. Good result 1.0 to Wycombe. Went home briefly to deal with post and tidy garden. Caught 33 bus from Castlefield to Town and walked through to station. Got train back to Banbury and arrived back at just before 8pm. Banbury is a great centre for a travelling boater- shops, launderette, station with good links to London and Wycombe, Arts Centre, Sports Centre, cinema etc
Friday 22nd August
Spent the day in Banbury sorting out supplies and using the excellent launderette.
Thursday 21st August
Jim form RCR replaced fan belt and checked engine over. Ready to set off late morning and cruised as far as Somerton Deep Lock. Here we join a queue of eight other boats waiting to pass through. This took two and a quarter hours. Met some boaters from Peterborough. Had conversations with talkative Becky from NB Snails Pace who were two boats ahead of us in the queue. Cruised on to Banbury and moored up below the lock.
5 locks today.
Wednesday 20th August
BROKEN FAN BELT
Showery day. Leave late morning and cruise to Lower Heyford where we get gas and replenish some supplies. Very helpful people and a good shop for boaters. Stop for lunch and then shortly afterwards batteries stop charging and engine whines. Pull in and discover broken fan belt. Call RCR. Snails Pace moor behind us. The girls on board are a bit worried by the cows and bulls in the field. Becky scrubs the roof of Snails Pace. Both girls fish for crayfish and later play frisbee on the field.
Travelled to High Wycombe by train and used supporters bus to get to Adams Park. Picked up our season ticket card and met up with Tom and Lisa to see the game against Lincoln. Good result 1.0 to Wycombe. Went home briefly to deal with post and tidy garden. Caught 33 bus from Castlefield to Town and walked through to station. Got train back to Banbury and arrived back at just before 8pm. Banbury is a great centre for a travelling boater- shops, launderette, station with good links to London and Wycombe, Arts Centre, Sports Centre, cinema etc
Friday 22nd August
Spent the day in Banbury sorting out supplies and using the excellent launderette.
Thursday 21st August
Jim form RCR replaced fan belt and checked engine over. Ready to set off late morning and cruised as far as Somerton Deep Lock. Here we join a queue of eight other boats waiting to pass through. This took two and a quarter hours. Met some boaters from Peterborough. Had conversations with talkative Becky from NB Snails Pace who were two boats ahead of us in the queue. Cruised on to Banbury and moored up below the lock.
5 locks today.
Wednesday 20th August
BROKEN FAN BELT
Showery day. Leave late morning and cruise to Lower Heyford where we get gas and replenish some supplies. Very helpful people and a good shop for boaters. Stop for lunch and then shortly afterwards batteries stop charging and engine whines. Pull in and discover broken fan belt. Call RCR. Snails Pace moor behind us. The girls on board are a bit worried by the cows and bulls in the field. Becky scrubs the roof of Snails Pace. Both girls fish for crayfish and later play frisbee on the field.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
A surprise back at Thrupp
Tuesday 19th August
Left Thrupp late morning and travelled to Dashwood Lock where we moored for the night. A mixed day of sunshine and showers.
Monday 18th August
Cruised down Thames. Met some very wet canoeists at Eynsham Lock. They kept pace with us all the way to Dukes Cut where we parted ways- we went to the Oxford Canal and they proceeded to Kings Lock on the Thames. Cruised to the Jolly Boatman at Thrupp, where we moored and where we were surprised to see Wilfred and Silver playing on the towpath.They had returned to their home boat, Gallifrey, which is moored by The Boat Inn, also at Thrupp.
Sunday 17th August
After doing our washing at the home of Chris and Jane we headed back to the boat. Tom and Lisa had found excellent mooring by Farmoor Reservoirs easily reached from the village by footpath. Stayed overnight.
Saturday 16th August
Spent the day at the wedding of Christopher and Jane in Cowbridge whilst Tom and Lisa spent a couple of days on MORE. Unfortunately the weather was not kind in Wales and it rained for most of the day. Luckily there were many places where photographs could be taken indoors. The venue was super and the food great. Finally dropped into bed after midnight and watched the start of the women’s marathon on the bedroom TV.
Tom and Lisa cruised down river to Tadpole Bridge and moored at the Trout Inn where they had dinner.
Left Thrupp late morning and travelled to Dashwood Lock where we moored for the night. A mixed day of sunshine and showers.
Monday 18th August
Cruised down Thames. Met some very wet canoeists at Eynsham Lock. They kept pace with us all the way to Dukes Cut where we parted ways- we went to the Oxford Canal and they proceeded to Kings Lock on the Thames. Cruised to the Jolly Boatman at Thrupp, where we moored and where we were surprised to see Wilfred and Silver playing on the towpath.They had returned to their home boat, Gallifrey, which is moored by The Boat Inn, also at Thrupp.
Sunday 17th August
After doing our washing at the home of Chris and Jane we headed back to the boat. Tom and Lisa had found excellent mooring by Farmoor Reservoirs easily reached from the village by footpath. Stayed overnight.
Saturday 16th August
Spent the day at the wedding of Christopher and Jane in Cowbridge whilst Tom and Lisa spent a couple of days on MORE. Unfortunately the weather was not kind in Wales and it rained for most of the day. Luckily there were many places where photographs could be taken indoors. The venue was super and the food great. Finally dropped into bed after midnight and watched the start of the women’s marathon on the bedroom TV.
Tom and Lisa cruised down river to Tadpole Bridge and moored at the Trout Inn where they had dinner.
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Saturday, August 16, 2008
To Cowbridge
Friday 15th August
Lechlade to Cowbridge
Moored at Lechlade in a beautiful spot by the River Thames. By Friday morning the water level was down again and no rain forecast for the day. Prepared the boat ready for Tom and Lisa to take charge whilst we go off to Wales for the wedding of Chris and Jane. Tom and Lisa were a bit delayed due to an incident on the M4 and eventually arrived about 3pm. After detailed instruction about how Tom’s car works we set off to the hotel for the wedding. Going at 30 miles an hour seems very fast after three weeks at 3 miles an hour or less on the canal. Arrived without incident at The Bear Hotel, Cowbridge around 7pm. Our room had a large bathroom and the first thing I did was run a deep hot bath and soaked for a long time. I can’t remember the last time I had that luxury! Our shower on the boat is good, but one is always conscious of conserving the water. Met up with Margaret and Trevor, parents of the bridegroom, and Rachel, my God daughter and sister of the bridegroom, later that evening in the hotel. Spent a rather noisy and hot night. Our room is facing the High Street. After being on quiet canals and rivers the traffic noise and passers by are very obvious.
Lechlade to Cowbridge
Moored at Lechlade in a beautiful spot by the River Thames. By Friday morning the water level was down again and no rain forecast for the day. Prepared the boat ready for Tom and Lisa to take charge whilst we go off to Wales for the wedding of Chris and Jane. Tom and Lisa were a bit delayed due to an incident on the M4 and eventually arrived about 3pm. After detailed instruction about how Tom’s car works we set off to the hotel for the wedding. Going at 30 miles an hour seems very fast after three weeks at 3 miles an hour or less on the canal. Arrived without incident at The Bear Hotel, Cowbridge around 7pm. Our room had a large bathroom and the first thing I did was run a deep hot bath and soaked for a long time. I can’t remember the last time I had that luxury! Our shower on the boat is good, but one is always conscious of conserving the water. Met up with Margaret and Trevor, parents of the bridegroom, and Rachel, my God daughter and sister of the bridegroom, later that evening in the hotel. Spent a rather noisy and hot night. Our room is facing the High Street. After being on quiet canals and rivers the traffic noise and passers by are very obvious.
Friday, August 15, 2008
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Eynsham to Lechlade
River Thames
Thursday 14th August
Rose early and found that water level at Rushy Lock had gone down by about 5 inches. A narrow boat appeared in the lock going downstream and so we were then able to set off upstream again. We were helped to operate the lock gates by another pair of narrow boaters. Cruised on to the next lock, Radcot which by then was manned. Lock keeper took our photograph together. We then cruised on to Grafton where we were surprised to see the lock keeper from Shifford to whom we had returned the coat on Wednesday. Cruised on and passed NB Rowan just passed Kelmscot. It was just making ready to set off. As we proceeded rowan was coming up close behind. We let it pass on a straight section, but met up at Buscot Lock. We had last seen NB Rowan at Kings Cut just before Oxford. Shared the next lock also and moored up behind it at Lechford. On board were two delightful young boys, Wilfrid and Silver travelling with their dad. David and I went into Lechlade and looked around the centre. Bought two blue ware plates. Had a look around the church and churchyard. There were some young people sprawled in the churchyard surrounded by litter. There have apparently been a lot of problems with vandalism recently in the churchyard. Returned to boat for the evening.
5 Locks today.
Wednesday 13th August
David walked into Eynsham for supplies. It is an attractive, large village with good facilities, including a co-op, deli, butchers, sandwich bar etc. Left the mooring att 11.40just after the lock keeper posted yellow signs warning that the river was rising and river should be used with caution. We had to contend with driving rain and headwind most of the day. The lock keepers were all extremely helpful and we continued as water levels rose. At the extremely pretty Pinkhill Lock we were asked to carry a coat up to Shiffford Lock. Returned coat to the Lock Keeper at Shifford and took on water. Leave Shifford at 5.00 pm then found great difficulty mooring as river levels were high. At Tadpole Bridge the mooring was under water. Almost turned round back towards Oxford by the current as we tried to get away from the bank but managed to right ourselves and cruised on westwards. Failing to find a mooring we arrived at Rushy Lock after the lock keeper had gone off duty. The lay by was at least 15 inches under water so we could not get off the boat to operate the lock. With some difficulty we tied up loosely to the lay by and stayed there for the night.
3 locks today.
Thursday 14th August
Rose early and found that water level at Rushy Lock had gone down by about 5 inches. A narrow boat appeared in the lock going downstream and so we were then able to set off upstream again. We were helped to operate the lock gates by another pair of narrow boaters. Cruised on to the next lock, Radcot which by then was manned. Lock keeper took our photograph together. We then cruised on to Grafton where we were surprised to see the lock keeper from Shifford to whom we had returned the coat on Wednesday. Cruised on and passed NB Rowan just passed Kelmscot. It was just making ready to set off. As we proceeded rowan was coming up close behind. We let it pass on a straight section, but met up at Buscot Lock. We had last seen NB Rowan at Kings Cut just before Oxford. Shared the next lock also and moored up behind it at Lechford. On board were two delightful young boys, Wilfrid and Silver travelling with their dad. David and I went into Lechlade and looked around the centre. Bought two blue ware plates. Had a look around the church and churchyard. There were some young people sprawled in the churchyard surrounded by litter. There have apparently been a lot of problems with vandalism recently in the churchyard. Returned to boat for the evening.
5 Locks today.
Wednesday 13th August
David walked into Eynsham for supplies. It is an attractive, large village with good facilities, including a co-op, deli, butchers, sandwich bar etc. Left the mooring att 11.40just after the lock keeper posted yellow signs warning that the river was rising and river should be used with caution. We had to contend with driving rain and headwind most of the day. The lock keepers were all extremely helpful and we continued as water levels rose. At the extremely pretty Pinkhill Lock we were asked to carry a coat up to Shiffford Lock. Returned coat to the Lock Keeper at Shifford and took on water. Leave Shifford at 5.00 pm then found great difficulty mooring as river levels were high. At Tadpole Bridge the mooring was under water. Almost turned round back towards Oxford by the current as we tried to get away from the bank but managed to right ourselves and cruised on westwards. Failing to find a mooring we arrived at Rushy Lock after the lock keeper had gone off duty. The lay by was at least 15 inches under water so we could not get off the boat to operate the lock. With some difficulty we tied up loosely to the lay by and stayed there for the night.
3 locks today.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Onto the Thames
Tuesday 12th Auggust.
To the Thames
Left the mooring spot at about 11.45 and went through Isis Lock onto the River Thames. It was a beautiful sunny day at that time. Cruised past Port Meadow and took photos of the Thames and the environs of Oxford. A boat from Bradford on Avon greeted us like long lost friends until they realised we were not Mike and Jane (the previous owners of our boat) Proceeded up to Godstow Lock and bought our Thames licence. The weather turned showery during the after noon as we continued up the Thames. Moored up at 3.30 at Eynsham Lock.
Monday 11th August
Left Thrupp Wharf around 11am. Filled up with water and then proceeded towards Oxford. The day was calm and quite bright. On the Oxford stretch there were quite a few changes from our map book, which is over 10 years old. Some of the lift bridges have been replaced by permanent road bridges. Around Summerton there are some beautiful canal side houses with gardens backing onto the canal. Moored by bridge 240 0n a 24 hour mooring to replenish supplies. Decided to remain moored for the rest of the afternoon. I took a walk back towards Summerton to discover the location of the launderette and shops. There are some beautiful properties in this part of Oxford. Walked back along the canal David then went off on his bicycle. He ran into Miles, an ex colleague from WDC who now lives near the canal in Oxford.
Sunday 10th August.
A wet start to the day, but turned out bright and blowy. Stayed at Thrupps Wharf all day. A beautiful spot. All facilities plus a wide expanse of grass and good towpath. Two pubs by the canal serving meals and another a short distance away closer to Kidlington. Cleaned boat and polished brass mushrooms on roof.
To the Thames
Left the mooring spot at about 11.45 and went through Isis Lock onto the River Thames. It was a beautiful sunny day at that time. Cruised past Port Meadow and took photos of the Thames and the environs of Oxford. A boat from Bradford on Avon greeted us like long lost friends until they realised we were not Mike and Jane (the previous owners of our boat) Proceeded up to Godstow Lock and bought our Thames licence. The weather turned showery during the after noon as we continued up the Thames. Moored up at 3.30 at Eynsham Lock.
Monday 11th August
Left Thrupp Wharf around 11am. Filled up with water and then proceeded towards Oxford. The day was calm and quite bright. On the Oxford stretch there were quite a few changes from our map book, which is over 10 years old. Some of the lift bridges have been replaced by permanent road bridges. Around Summerton there are some beautiful canal side houses with gardens backing onto the canal. Moored by bridge 240 0n a 24 hour mooring to replenish supplies. Decided to remain moored for the rest of the afternoon. I took a walk back towards Summerton to discover the location of the launderette and shops. There are some beautiful properties in this part of Oxford. Walked back along the canal David then went off on his bicycle. He ran into Miles, an ex colleague from WDC who now lives near the canal in Oxford.
Sunday 10th August.
A wet start to the day, but turned out bright and blowy. Stayed at Thrupps Wharf all day. A beautiful spot. All facilities plus a wide expanse of grass and good towpath. Two pubs by the canal serving meals and another a short distance away closer to Kidlington. Cleaned boat and polished brass mushrooms on roof.
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Shipton Cherwell and Thrupp Wharf
Sunday.
Stayed at Thrupp Wharf all day. Cleaned boat and polished brass mushrooms on roof. A wet start to the day,but turned out bright and blowy.
Saturday.
A wet and overcast day. Moved from our mooring at Shipton Cherwell down to Thrupp Wharf. Moored in front of NB Gilbert. Walked almost to Kidlington to the local Co-op for supplies. Walked around canal area including a visit to Hampton Gay, a deserted village close to the river Cherwell. The church is still used as a recent burial showed but there are no inhabited properties now. The manor house burned down in the 19th century.
Stayed at Thrupp Wharf all day. Cleaned boat and polished brass mushrooms on roof. A wet start to the day,but turned out bright and blowy.
Saturday.
A wet and overcast day. Moved from our mooring at Shipton Cherwell down to Thrupp Wharf. Moored in front of NB Gilbert. Walked almost to Kidlington to the local Co-op for supplies. Walked around canal area including a visit to Hampton Gay, a deserted village close to the river Cherwell. The church is still used as a recent burial showed but there are no inhabited properties now. The manor house burned down in the 19th century.
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Danger Bridge at Aynho
Danger Bridge at Aynho.
Thursday.
Wet start to the day, but turns out warm with sunny periods. Went into Banbury to find a place to have a haircut and to locate the launderette. Was successful in both. Got a good haircut at Spruced and Dapper. They fitted me in straight away and were very competent. I certainly look more presentable. Visited the museum and bought some flowers for the boat at the market.
Cruised from Banbury towards Oxford. Was pleasantly surprised to be able to buy ice cream at the lock cottage at Kings Sutton. The lock at Aynho Weir was very heavy and we had some difficulty opening it. Disaster struck at the bridge just beyond the wharf. I was in charge and manage to touch the bridge side which threw the boat towards the opposite bridge support. The witches hat and then the chimney were caught on the bridge arch, with David’s bike handlebars also at risk of damage. It all seemed to be happening in slow motion, but I was unable to react quick enough to help the situation. The chimney and hat scraped along the bridge arch causing some damage to both. Little did we know that the pressure had also caused the flue from the stove inside the boat to also come adrift, showering sooty debris around. Anoth repair job to be done. Continued on and moored on the towpath just beyond Aynho for the night. 7 miles and 4 locks today.
Wednesday.
David entertained the engineers who were investigating our electrical problems whilst I spent all day Wednesday with Megan and Gil before returning to Banbury on the 20.00 train from Marylebone. Chiltern trains run such a reliable service. Everything went without a hitch. David went into Banbury to have a haircut. Found a good barber at RJS’s.
Tuesday.
Took the train from Banbury to Marylebone. Was in Vauxhall by 11.45. Spent the afternoon out with Gil in the pushchair. Looked after him during the evening so his parents could have an evening out together.
Monday.
Cruised from Cropredy to Banbury and moored below the lock.
Thursday.
Wet start to the day, but turns out warm with sunny periods. Went into Banbury to find a place to have a haircut and to locate the launderette. Was successful in both. Got a good haircut at Spruced and Dapper. They fitted me in straight away and were very competent. I certainly look more presentable. Visited the museum and bought some flowers for the boat at the market.
Cruised from Banbury towards Oxford. Was pleasantly surprised to be able to buy ice cream at the lock cottage at Kings Sutton. The lock at Aynho Weir was very heavy and we had some difficulty opening it. Disaster struck at the bridge just beyond the wharf. I was in charge and manage to touch the bridge side which threw the boat towards the opposite bridge support. The witches hat and then the chimney were caught on the bridge arch, with David’s bike handlebars also at risk of damage. It all seemed to be happening in slow motion, but I was unable to react quick enough to help the situation. The chimney and hat scraped along the bridge arch causing some damage to both. Little did we know that the pressure had also caused the flue from the stove inside the boat to also come adrift, showering sooty debris around. Anoth repair job to be done. Continued on and moored on the towpath just beyond Aynho for the night. 7 miles and 4 locks today.
Wednesday.
David entertained the engineers who were investigating our electrical problems whilst I spent all day Wednesday with Megan and Gil before returning to Banbury on the 20.00 train from Marylebone. Chiltern trains run such a reliable service. Everything went without a hitch. David went into Banbury to have a haircut. Found a good barber at RJS’s.
Tuesday.
Took the train from Banbury to Marylebone. Was in Vauxhall by 11.45. Spent the afternoon out with Gil in the pushchair. Looked after him during the evening so his parents could have an evening out together.
Monday.
Cruised from Cropredy to Banbury and moored below the lock.
Monday, August 4, 2008
Fenny Compton to Cropredy
Sunday
Remained in Cropredy all day. Took a walk around the village and visited the church. More boats kept arriving in readiness for the festival. Tempted by a cardigan from the local shop. It goes well with my new skirt and will be a lovely reminder of our visit.
Saturday.
Left Fenny Compton late morning and cruised along South Oxford Canal. Kept on hearing what sounded like a text message being received on the mobile but in fact was a bird. Going down Claydon lock flight was quite tricky as the paddle gear was quite stiff. David did most of the winding whist I steered. We then continued on through the beautiful countryside to Cropredy. Had help at bottom lock from three children and their dad. Cropredy itself was very busy with moored boats, but we were lucky enough to secure a mooring right in the centre. There were many boats moored up in preparation for the Cropredy Festival which takes place next weekend. We were able to get essential supplies at the super Spar shop which is right by the canal by bridge 153.
Remained in Cropredy all day. Took a walk around the village and visited the church. More boats kept arriving in readiness for the festival. Tempted by a cardigan from the local shop. It goes well with my new skirt and will be a lovely reminder of our visit.
Saturday.
Left Fenny Compton late morning and cruised along South Oxford Canal. Kept on hearing what sounded like a text message being received on the mobile but in fact was a bird. Going down Claydon lock flight was quite tricky as the paddle gear was quite stiff. David did most of the winding whist I steered. We then continued on through the beautiful countryside to Cropredy. Had help at bottom lock from three children and their dad. Cropredy itself was very busy with moored boats, but we were lucky enough to secure a mooring right in the centre. There were many boats moored up in preparation for the Cropredy Festival which takes place next weekend. We were able to get essential supplies at the super Spar shop which is right by the canal by bridge 153.
Friday, August 1, 2008
Napton Summit to Fenny Compton
Friday.
Cruised through miles of quiet open countryside along the South Oxford Canal. Moored near bridge 124, close to Priors Hardwick. David walked through the fields to the village. Whilst he was gone there was a stream of passing boats and MORE came adrift from her mooring twice. It was lucky I had remained on board or we could have blocked the canal. Cruised on to water station at the Wharf Inn near Fenny Compton. Met up with the day boat, Dizzy Duck, from tooleys wharf, Banbury. They helped pull us in. They were having some trouble with their water supply. We filled up and then cruised short distance before mooring up for the night.
Cruised through miles of quiet open countryside along the South Oxford Canal. Moored near bridge 124, close to Priors Hardwick. David walked through the fields to the village. Whilst he was gone there was a stream of passing boats and MORE came adrift from her mooring twice. It was lucky I had remained on board or we could have blocked the canal. Cruised on to water station at the Wharf Inn near Fenny Compton. Met up with the day boat, Dizzy Duck, from tooleys wharf, Banbury. They helped pull us in. They were having some trouble with their water supply. We filled up and then cruised short distance before mooring up for the night.
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Buckby to Napton.
Thursday. Bridge 99 to Napton Summit.
Cruised to South Oxford canal and then up through Napton Locks meeting NB Busy Bee, renewing another acquaintance from 2007. We moored behind them at Hawksbbury Junction last year. Moored up on the summit around 7.30pm.
Wednesday.
Left Buckby at around 10.45 and shared locks with Ade and Joan. Took the Grand Union arm towards Braunston. Entered the tunnel with caution. Passed three boats in the tunnel. Took 32 minutes to get right through. No work seems to have been done on the site of the 2007 landslip just by the Braunston end of the tunnel. Continued down to the bottom lock at Braunston. Bought the remaining four place mats to complete my set. Took a trip into the village to replenish supplies. Whilst I was gone Ade and Joan’s boat came unmoored and drifted across the canal, completely blocking it. They were also in the village shopping. It was lucky that I had left David aboard, as he was able to rescue it. Saw NB SOLOMON on the Braunston flight renewing our acquaintance from 2007. Left Braunston around 5pm and cruised to bridge 99 where we moored for the night.
Cruised to South Oxford canal and then up through Napton Locks meeting NB Busy Bee, renewing another acquaintance from 2007. We moored behind them at Hawksbbury Junction last year. Moored up on the summit around 7.30pm.
Wednesday.
Left Buckby at around 10.45 and shared locks with Ade and Joan. Took the Grand Union arm towards Braunston. Entered the tunnel with caution. Passed three boats in the tunnel. Took 32 minutes to get right through. No work seems to have been done on the site of the 2007 landslip just by the Braunston end of the tunnel. Continued down to the bottom lock at Braunston. Bought the remaining four place mats to complete my set. Took a trip into the village to replenish supplies. Whilst I was gone Ade and Joan’s boat came unmoored and drifted across the canal, completely blocking it. They were also in the village shopping. It was lucky that I had left David aboard, as he was able to rescue it. Saw NB SOLOMON on the Braunston flight renewing our acquaintance from 2007. Left Braunston around 5pm and cruised to bridge 99 where we moored for the night.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
FREEDOM CRUISE
Monday. Shared locks at Stoke Bruerne with NB Miranda from Titchmarsh. Went through tunnel without incident in 41 minutes. Moored at Bugbrooke, just in front of the bridge, for the night.
Left Bugbrooke and cruised to bottom lock at Whilton. Met up with Adrian and his mum, Joan, aboard NB Still Waters. Shared locks with them and moored two locks below Buckby Wharf.
Sunday. Cruised from Campbell Park to Wolverton where we met up with NB Albert with Steve, Maggie, Roy and Linda aboard. Invited to share their lunch and spent an hour or so in conversation. Showed off pictures of our favourite baby, Gil. Cruised on to bottom lock at Stoke Bruerne. Moored up for the night.
Saturday 26th July
Following my retirement we are headed off on a cruise on our narrowboat. My retirement gift of Spode table ware looks very good and I feel very privileged using it.
Left Ivinghoe at around 9.30, heading north. Stopped at Tesco in Leighton Buzzard for Saturday Guardian. Met up with several Wyvern boaters being shown the ropes at Leighton lock. Cruised as far as Campbell park in central Milton Keynes where we moored behind narrowboat, White Rose, for the night.
Left Bugbrooke and cruised to bottom lock at Whilton. Met up with Adrian and his mum, Joan, aboard NB Still Waters. Shared locks with them and moored two locks below Buckby Wharf.
Sunday. Cruised from Campbell Park to Wolverton where we met up with NB Albert with Steve, Maggie, Roy and Linda aboard. Invited to share their lunch and spent an hour or so in conversation. Showed off pictures of our favourite baby, Gil. Cruised on to bottom lock at Stoke Bruerne. Moored up for the night.
Saturday 26th July
Following my retirement we are headed off on a cruise on our narrowboat. My retirement gift of Spode table ware looks very good and I feel very privileged using it.
Left Ivinghoe at around 9.30, heading north. Stopped at Tesco in Leighton Buzzard for Saturday Guardian. Met up with several Wyvern boaters being shown the ropes at Leighton lock. Cruised as far as Campbell park in central Milton Keynes where we moored behind narrowboat, White Rose, for the night.
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