Market Drayton to Chistleton
Thursday 21st May 2009
We arrived here yesterday, which just happened to be Market day. Naturally Wifey had to go shopping. Well, actually she really did because we were getting pretty low on victuals. As usual she took her shopping trolley but, knowing she had a huge amount to get, and that we were going to stay for two nights, I told her not to take a shopping bag too. But, as I suspected, she came back with a full trolley load and a plastic carrier bag full as well.
This morning, as she’d already planned, she again went into town for the rest of the shopping, and again she took the trolley. This time however, she not only came back with a trolley full, she also managed to find enough to fill another two plastic carrier bags. Lord only knows where she finds room for it all when she stows it away.
On our way here from Goldstone yesterday we had to come through Woodseaves Cutting, which is about a mile or so long and quite narrow in places. It can be pretty dim and dark going through, not least because of the high banks of trees on both sides. Being a quite narrow stretch it can also be tricky passing other boats too.
Interestingly, reading from the Nicholson’s Guide, this cutting was cut by hand and the dark brown rock from which it was cut is plain to see. Those workers didn’t have the benefit of mechanical cutting tools either. It was all done with whatever was to hand at the time. One bridge in particular was obviously built with huge blocks of this rock.
At the end of the cutting of course is the top of Tyrley Locks, of which there are five. When we left Goldstone there were already two boats in front of us, so we knew we wouldn’t be going through very quickly. Unfortunately we also had to contend with holiday boats coming up from Market Drayton, which was bound to add to our waiting time.
Much like the Huddersfield Narrow Canal, the locks at Tyrley also have very fast running side channels. When going down the locks these don’t present too much of a problem, because it’s only necessary to leave the lock a bit faster than usual in order to avoid being swept to one side. Coming up, on the other hand, can be a bit nerve-wracking, to say the least. If you try entering the lock too fast to avoid the problem, you end up decelerating very hard so as to avoid bashing into the opposite end. If you approach too slowly however, you find the sharp end of the boat being pushed to one side, and you miss the entrance altogether. Holidaymakers, unfortunately, don’t always have the benefit of practice. Fun to watch mind!
The town of Market Drayton received its charter in the 13th century, but was destroyed by fire in 1651. The rebuilding of the town still used the black and white timber framing as before, the finest example being the Tudor House Hotel in the market square. The parish church of St. Mary, which overlooks the Tern valley, dates from the 12th century.
The town also lays claim to being the home of gingerbread and there are two bakeries producing it. One of them still produces the original Billingtons recipe, which was sold at a weekly market in Buttercross. Unfortunately the link to gingerbread appears to be a little suspect., but is based on the towns connection with Clive of India, who returned from the east with a vast collection of spices, one of which may have been ginger. Ah well, perhaps we’ll never know.
Tomorrow, if we don’ get any more rain like we had today, there’s a good chance we’ll go on to Adderley, which will involve going through another five locks. Indeed, if we’re up to it, we might also take in the first two locks at Audlum, of which there are 15.
Sunday 24th May 2009
As you can see, despite all the extra time on my hands during my long awaited retirement, I’m becoming somewhat lazy. What else could account for the fact that I’m not updating this blog on a daily basis?
Anyway, on Friday we left Market Drayton on Friday morning and, after passing through five locks, arrived at Adderley. It only took us a couple of hours to cover the four miles and so, after the usual cuppa, we settled in for a day of well earned rest, which statement was made with tongue firmly in cheek.
The village of Adderley is quite a longinsh walk and, since there are no shops to speak, nor pubs as far as we can tell, it’s simply a case of lazing around for the rest of the day.
Now, on Saturday, since there are no pubs at the aforementioned village, we set our sights on getting to Audlum for the weekend. Little did we know that their ninth annual festival would take place this weekend. But that really wouldn’t have given us much cause for concern, had we been able to find decent moorings. Anyway, having travelled through 11 locks over the two miles, we pulled in and tied up. It wasn’t the ideal spot, being between two locks as it was, but we tried to make the best of it. Unfortunately the pound between locks 11 and 12 is quite short and, it being a busy boating day, we did tend to get knocked about a bit by passing boats.
So, after an hour or so of this, along with the fact that we were practically sitting on a ledge, which caused the boat to tilt a bit, we decided to move on. At first we decided to try mooring by the two pubs just a couple more locks down but, on arriving there, we thought it might just get a little busy and noisy over the weekend. The only thing for it, much to my dismay, was to give up all thoughts of a Sunday drink, and leave Audlum to it’s own devices and find some secluded spot further along the canal. We finally settled on a nice spot by bridge 82 and, with the weather promising to be the best so far this year, we might even stay for Monday as well and catch up on the beer sometime later.
Now, let me tell you all about the fun we had going through the locks on our way to Audlum. All 15 locks are pretty close together and we fully expected to meet other boaters coming the other way. Being so close to Wales we also expected to coma across holiday boats from Anglo-Welsh. We were not disappointed and came across one such between locks nine and ten. Wifey will dispute this, which is not an uncommon occurrence, and will tell you we were between locks eight and nine. However, I distinctly remember being surprised at only having one more lock to go through before mooring up.
Back to the tale of woe for Anglo-Welsh couple. All these closely knitted locks have one thing in common, and that is the mini-weir at the top, which allows water to pass by the lock and keep the pounds at a reasonable level. Without this they would either overflow their banks, or become too shallow for boats to move. For some reason best known to himself, the gentleman steering the Anglo-Welsh boat out of lock 10, had steered it into the side of the pound and become firmly wedged.
At first we tried tying their boat to ours in an attempt to tow him off, but all to no avail. No matter whether I pushed or pulled we made no difference to his predicament. Obviously we needed more manpower, which came in the form of other boaters, who were waiting to pass through the locks. Finally, after unhitching our boat and piling people on the stern deck of theirs, we succeeded in pulling their boat off the bank. Hopefully that nice gentleman has learned his lesson and will stay firmly in the middle of the pound when travelling between locks. Nuff said!
So, here we are at Bridge 82, and here we will most probably stay tomorrow as well. If the weather is fine it will give me an opportunity to carry out and oil and filter change on the engine.
Bank Holiday 25th May 2009
Well, after much discussion this morning, and it being a very bright and sunny day, we decided to move on to Nantwich. I was going to tackle the simple task of an oil and filter change but, since I didn’t have a spare container into which to drain the engine oil, we’ve decide to wait a while. If I can find an old, plastic oil can I will do the job. If not, then I’ll get the nearest boatyard to do the job.
So, after the said discussion we left about nine o’clock. With only two locks to go down you could be excused if you thought we’d do the four mile run in no time. In fact, as it’s a Bank Holiday, there are more than enough other boaters around to slow us down. Arriving at the first lock we found we were third in line. This means waiting for the first boat to go through, waiting for the next to enter from below, filling the lock, letting them out and waiting for the next boat to enter at the top. The same is true of the second lock and so the four miles took over two hours.
Anyway, here we are at Nantwich, but just for the night. Tomorrow morning Wifey will walk into town – we actually took a bus in last time we were here – do a bit of shopping, then we’ll make for Barbridge, which is about three miles away. Whilst we’re there we will take advantage of the culinary delights of a pub we were last in 15 years ago. That was when we hired a boat after Sheila finished her stint in Northern Ireland and we did the Llangollen Canal. It was such a dry summer that year that we didn’t even get as far as the famous Pontcysyllte Aqueduct because the canal was too shallow to allow passage. Hopefully there’ll be a little more water about this year.
Wednesday 27th May 2009
Hi from Just above Beeston Stone Lock on the Shroppie. We’re now in new territory for us because, although we’ve travelled the Shroppie before, we’ve not been this end between Barbridge Junction and Chester.
Yesterday we stayed at Nantwich because the weather was not that good, very strong winds and some rain. But, since the moorings there are limited to 48 hours and the fact that we were in need of a pump-out, we made tracks for the Anglo-Welsh hire boat yard at Bunbury. After that it was simply a matter of finding suitable moorings, and here we are.
Now, tomorrow we’re going on through this lock and another two to Bates Mill Bridge, where there’s a pub called The Shady Oak. From there we’ll have a direct line of sight to the remains of Beeston Castle. This was built in 1337 by the Earl of Chester – no doubt charging it to expenses, ho, ho. Situated as it is on the top of a steep hill the castle can be seen from 30 miles away. Now that is a dominating position.
Friday 29th May 2009
Hello and welcome from Christleton on the Shroppie. We’re now just a short distance from Chester proper, which we’ll pass through on Sunday, once again flouting our own rules on weekend travel. However, there’s a good reason for this, we simply do not like to travel through big towns or cities on Saturdays. Sunday mornings are not too bad because the little horrors who sometimes make boaters lives a misery are usually still safely ensconced within their own four walls. Besides which, if we don’t stay her for tomorrow, it will be my last opportunity for a weekend drink before we head back this way from Ellesmere Port, because there are no canal-side pubs between here and there, except in Chester, and we don’t wish to stay overnight in that town.
Yesterday we stayed at Bates Mill Bridge and savoured the delights of The Shady Oak. A very nice pub indeed, but with ideas above its station, with rather posh and overpriced food, and the beer’s not too cheap either at £3.05p a pint. Anyway, apart from the idyllic setting and the lovely weather, there’s not much to report about the area. No shops or post office, just the pub and, what appeared to be a working mill set to one side of the bridge.
We left there at about 08.20 this morning and, with no locks to worry about, arrived at bridge 119 at Waverton about 10 o/clock so that Wifey could collect our mail from the local Post Office. After which she strolled off to the local shop for a few bits and pieces. And that’s about it for this blog.
Cheers for now from
Dave, Sheila and Rusty
Friday 29 May 2009
Wednesday 20 May 2009
Penkridge to Market Drayton
Tuesday 12th May 2009
Hi from Cross Green and a new blog. We left Penkridge at 8 o/clock this morning with the express intention of getting to Cross Green, which we have done and which took us four hours, through six locks and 7 ½ miles. Whilst it was a pleasant enough trip, the wind was still a little stronger than I would have liked.
Cross Green lies to the east of the Staffordshire village of Coven, and that village boasts a rather fine butchers and a bookshop. Having purchased a few victuals from this esteemed establishment in the past, we were quite looking forward to repeating the experience.
In addition we had hoped to browse the bookshop shelves, because we have a list of novels we’ve been chasing up for some time. Sadly this shop wasn’t open today and won’t be open until Thursday. So, it looks like a two night stay here.
The local pub, called The Fox and Anchor, is another fine watering hole that we’ve taken advantage of in the past, so you won’t be surprised to hear that, for the second day running, we stopped in for a snifter or two. Just for a change I departed from the Guinness, having worked up a thirst by accompanying Wifey to the aforementioned butchers. Instead I was more than happy to indulge my taste for my second preference in alcoholic beverages, Stella Artois lager, to my mind the best a pub has to offer.
The weather forecast is not looking too good for the rest of the week, so we decided against a two night stay at Cross Green. Instead we went on to Brewood – pronounced “Brood” by the locals – where there happens to be another pub that we’ve used before, called The Bridge Inn, which is, as you would expect, just by a bridge and a very short walk from our moorings.
Brewood also boasts a good butchers, which is just as well because I’m running out of pork pies. This is quite a spread out village as shops goes, so it took Wifey a while to do the shopping whilst I imbibed a couple of Guinnesses. The village name derives from the Celtic bre for hill, hence wood on a hill. There are several old buildings here, not least of which are the Old Smithy Cottages, which were built around 1350.
Thursday 14th May 2009
From Brewood to Wheaton Aston is just three miles, taking in one lock and so, as it’s not raining, we’ve decided to spend a night or two there instead of here. Besides which, our moorings at Brewood are pretty dark and dismal, especially in these overcast conditions, because there are tall trees on both sides of the canal here.
Having completed the three miles in just 1 ½ hours, we’re now settled in just by bridge 19 which, surprise, surprise, also boasts a pub called The Hartley Arms. However, having already enjoyed several libations over the past three days, I’ll probably give this one a miss. Mind you, should we be obliged to stay here tomorrow, that could be a different story.
Wheaton Aston lays claim to a Post Office, stores, a takeaway; although of which type we don’t know; and a garage. According to Nicholson’s, the village has been pretty much overrun with new housing, but boaters really wouldn’t notice as the village is approached through woods at both ends.
Monday 18th May 2009
You must have noticed that I have not been keeping this blog up to date on a daily basis. Suffice it to say, that I’m just being lazy, as befits a retired old duffer. That’s not to say I’m ignoring my duties in this respect, I simply have other things I want to do and they do require my daily attention.
Anyway, here we are at Norbury Junction, having spent the last two days at Gnosall, which is pronounced nosul.
Most of you would have heard the nursery rhyme about four and twenty blackbirds I think? If memory serves me, the birds used in the pie were not blackbirds but crows, which are somewhat bigger. For those of you who might want to venture into that particular culinary area, Gonsall would be an ideal place to start. Shiralee is, as I write, covered with their droppings, and you would be doing us boaters a big favour if you were to concentrate your efforts along the Shropshire Union Canal section running through that village.
We had the choice of two pubs at Gnosall, and we were moored up between them. Behind us was The Boat and ahead of us The Navigation Inn. We chose the latter after the toss of a coin. No doubt, if we return this way, we’ll give the other one a shot. Well, it would be rude not to.
Norbury Junction was once the meeting point of the Shroppy and what was the Newport Branch. With a long line of Permit Holder Moorings here, it’s just as well that this junction also has toilets, showers and laundry facilities. Not all BW moorings are so blessed, which brings me to my next point.
As you all know my body is in need of some repair, namely to my knee joints, which are becoming increasingly uncomfortable. I have already been advised by my GP, that I can have one of them replaced immediately, all I have to do is arrange a meeting with a consultant at the hospital. The problem comes with what follows, which is two weeks in hospital and about two to three months of physio and recuperation.
Now, since we have spent the past two winters at Bulbourne, this would present a problem of logistics. Obviously we would have to try and find winter moorings near Harlow if I am to continue under my present GP’s care, and that could be even more expensive than it has been at Bulbourne, simply because the nearer to London the dearer everything becomes. And that includes fuel and beer, not to mention foodstuffs.
So, instead of getting sorted this year – well, in one knee anyway – we’ve decided to start looking for permanent moorings. Naturally we would prefer to, at least, somewhere south of Birmingham. The thought of a three or more hours of driving just to spend a few hours with my one and only brother, is not something that appeals to me.
Therefore, once we’re past Brummyland on our way back, we’ll be looking out for canalside moorings, but not BW ones if we can help it. Actually we’ve been online to see what we can find and, in truth, there doesn’t appear to be much out there. However, we do pass quite a few canalside farms that advertise a contact number for information about moorings. Hopefully something will eventually turn up.
Unfortunately, and not for the first time, even though my laptop tells me that my modem is connected, I am still unable to get online. This is a problem we encountered along this canal last year, so it comes as no surprise. If I have time I’ll have another try tomorrow to post this blog.
Wednesday 20th May 2009
Having come through 5 locks and 4 miles without getting a good soaking, I suppose we can consider ourselves very lucky. The same could not be said for yesterday, when we left Norbury Junction and heading for Goldstone. Well, when I say heading for Goldstone, that’s not strictly true. We were headed in that general direction but hadn’t decided where to stop.
The Shropshire Union Canal boasts quite a few designated mooring spots, which have iron mooring rings attached. But, and it’s a big but, there can be quite a distance between these sites. The first of these was about 3 miles away but, when we tried to moor up, we found ourselves bottoming out with a gap between the boat and the towpath.
Not being ones to give in too easily, we soldiered on, and on, and on, until the heavens opened up and we were obliged to bring out the trusty brolly. And thus we continued for a further 5 miles until we reached Goldstone, from which I sent the text that didn’t get sent. Ah well, at least I’ve been able to get online here at Market Drayton.
I would seriously consider posting the blog today, but I have no idea when I’ll be in a position to text you that I’ve done so. Hey! I might post it anyway. I’ll also continue texting, and I wonder how many ypo’ll receive at once.
Cheers for now
Dave, Sheila and Rusty.
Tuesday 12th May 2009
Hi from Cross Green and a new blog. We left Penkridge at 8 o/clock this morning with the express intention of getting to Cross Green, which we have done and which took us four hours, through six locks and 7 ½ miles. Whilst it was a pleasant enough trip, the wind was still a little stronger than I would have liked.
Cross Green lies to the east of the Staffordshire village of Coven, and that village boasts a rather fine butchers and a bookshop. Having purchased a few victuals from this esteemed establishment in the past, we were quite looking forward to repeating the experience.
In addition we had hoped to browse the bookshop shelves, because we have a list of novels we’ve been chasing up for some time. Sadly this shop wasn’t open today and won’t be open until Thursday. So, it looks like a two night stay here.
The local pub, called The Fox and Anchor, is another fine watering hole that we’ve taken advantage of in the past, so you won’t be surprised to hear that, for the second day running, we stopped in for a snifter or two. Just for a change I departed from the Guinness, having worked up a thirst by accompanying Wifey to the aforementioned butchers. Instead I was more than happy to indulge my taste for my second preference in alcoholic beverages, Stella Artois lager, to my mind the best a pub has to offer.
The weather forecast is not looking too good for the rest of the week, so we decided against a two night stay at Cross Green. Instead we went on to Brewood – pronounced “Brood” by the locals – where there happens to be another pub that we’ve used before, called The Bridge Inn, which is, as you would expect, just by a bridge and a very short walk from our moorings.
Brewood also boasts a good butchers, which is just as well because I’m running out of pork pies. This is quite a spread out village as shops goes, so it took Wifey a while to do the shopping whilst I imbibed a couple of Guinnesses. The village name derives from the Celtic bre for hill, hence wood on a hill. There are several old buildings here, not least of which are the Old Smithy Cottages, which were built around 1350.
Thursday 14th May 2009
From Brewood to Wheaton Aston is just three miles, taking in one lock and so, as it’s not raining, we’ve decided to spend a night or two there instead of here. Besides which, our moorings at Brewood are pretty dark and dismal, especially in these overcast conditions, because there are tall trees on both sides of the canal here.
Having completed the three miles in just 1 ½ hours, we’re now settled in just by bridge 19 which, surprise, surprise, also boasts a pub called The Hartley Arms. However, having already enjoyed several libations over the past three days, I’ll probably give this one a miss. Mind you, should we be obliged to stay here tomorrow, that could be a different story.
Wheaton Aston lays claim to a Post Office, stores, a takeaway; although of which type we don’t know; and a garage. According to Nicholson’s, the village has been pretty much overrun with new housing, but boaters really wouldn’t notice as the village is approached through woods at both ends.
Monday 18th May 2009
You must have noticed that I have not been keeping this blog up to date on a daily basis. Suffice it to say, that I’m just being lazy, as befits a retired old duffer. That’s not to say I’m ignoring my duties in this respect, I simply have other things I want to do and they do require my daily attention.
Anyway, here we are at Norbury Junction, having spent the last two days at Gnosall, which is pronounced nosul.
Most of you would have heard the nursery rhyme about four and twenty blackbirds I think? If memory serves me, the birds used in the pie were not blackbirds but crows, which are somewhat bigger. For those of you who might want to venture into that particular culinary area, Gonsall would be an ideal place to start. Shiralee is, as I write, covered with their droppings, and you would be doing us boaters a big favour if you were to concentrate your efforts along the Shropshire Union Canal section running through that village.
We had the choice of two pubs at Gnosall, and we were moored up between them. Behind us was The Boat and ahead of us The Navigation Inn. We chose the latter after the toss of a coin. No doubt, if we return this way, we’ll give the other one a shot. Well, it would be rude not to.
Norbury Junction was once the meeting point of the Shroppy and what was the Newport Branch. With a long line of Permit Holder Moorings here, it’s just as well that this junction also has toilets, showers and laundry facilities. Not all BW moorings are so blessed, which brings me to my next point.
As you all know my body is in need of some repair, namely to my knee joints, which are becoming increasingly uncomfortable. I have already been advised by my GP, that I can have one of them replaced immediately, all I have to do is arrange a meeting with a consultant at the hospital. The problem comes with what follows, which is two weeks in hospital and about two to three months of physio and recuperation.
Now, since we have spent the past two winters at Bulbourne, this would present a problem of logistics. Obviously we would have to try and find winter moorings near Harlow if I am to continue under my present GP’s care, and that could be even more expensive than it has been at Bulbourne, simply because the nearer to London the dearer everything becomes. And that includes fuel and beer, not to mention foodstuffs.
So, instead of getting sorted this year – well, in one knee anyway – we’ve decided to start looking for permanent moorings. Naturally we would prefer to, at least, somewhere south of Birmingham. The thought of a three or more hours of driving just to spend a few hours with my one and only brother, is not something that appeals to me.
Therefore, once we’re past Brummyland on our way back, we’ll be looking out for canalside moorings, but not BW ones if we can help it. Actually we’ve been online to see what we can find and, in truth, there doesn’t appear to be much out there. However, we do pass quite a few canalside farms that advertise a contact number for information about moorings. Hopefully something will eventually turn up.
Unfortunately, and not for the first time, even though my laptop tells me that my modem is connected, I am still unable to get online. This is a problem we encountered along this canal last year, so it comes as no surprise. If I have time I’ll have another try tomorrow to post this blog.
Wednesday 20th May 2009
Having come through 5 locks and 4 miles without getting a good soaking, I suppose we can consider ourselves very lucky. The same could not be said for yesterday, when we left Norbury Junction and heading for Goldstone. Well, when I say heading for Goldstone, that’s not strictly true. We were headed in that general direction but hadn’t decided where to stop.
The Shropshire Union Canal boasts quite a few designated mooring spots, which have iron mooring rings attached. But, and it’s a big but, there can be quite a distance between these sites. The first of these was about 3 miles away but, when we tried to moor up, we found ourselves bottoming out with a gap between the boat and the towpath.
Not being ones to give in too easily, we soldiered on, and on, and on, until the heavens opened up and we were obliged to bring out the trusty brolly. And thus we continued for a further 5 miles until we reached Goldstone, from which I sent the text that didn’t get sent. Ah well, at least I’ve been able to get online here at Market Drayton.
I would seriously consider posting the blog today, but I have no idea when I’ll be in a position to text you that I’ve done so. Hey! I might post it anyway. I’ll also continue texting, and I wonder how many ypo’ll receive at once.
Cheers for now
Dave, Sheila and Rusty.
Monday 11 May 2009
Fradley Junction to Penkridge
Thursday 7th May 2009
Yesterday we made our way from Fradley Junction to Rugeley and I for one was never more happy to come to a stop. The wind was so powerful that, on the open stretches, it was difficult to control the boat. Fortunately we had no locks to worry about and, since our moorings were between buildings, we were well sheltered.
The centre of Rugely is only 200 yards away from our moorings, so I decided to go with Wifey to the local Morrisons. Unfortunately I had a lot more faith in my legs than I should have, because the walk was agony. The problem is, if I don’t take a walk occasionally I seem to suffer more muscle pains than if I don’t take that walk. I seem to be between a rock and a hard place in this situation.
Anyway, back to Rugely, which has the canal passing through it and the River Trent passing it to the east. The town can, unhappily, lay claim to at least two murders, one of which was committed by a poisoner, whilst the other was the death of a young woman back in the early 19thC.
The town also boasts two churches, both of which ar by bridge 67. The parish church was built in 1822 to replace the other one which is a ruin of its former 14th C beauty. The infamous, but beautiful, Cannock Chase, which covers an area of 26 square miles, lies to the south of the town. Spode House, the home of the famous pottery family stands next to Hawkesyard Priory, which was founded in 1897 by Josiah Spodes grandson and niece Helen Gulson when they lived at Spode House.
There, I think that’s enough about Rugeley, which used to be called Rougeley, except to say that, as with many towns in the U.K. it too has suffered from the downturn, having lost several shops since we last visited.
Great Haywood Junction, which is about a mile north of our mooring, is the centre of the Great Haywood and Shugborough Conservation Area. Shugborough Hall lies to the west of the canal and once housed a family named Anson. Back in the 1740’s a gentleman of that name circumnavigated the globe. About 100 yards south of Haywood Lock is an old iron bridge, which goes absolutely nowhere. Many moons ago though, the bridge, which crossed the river and canal, was built in order for the Ansons to drive their horse and carriage to church on Sundays. Prior to that time the poor dears were obliged to walk the 300 yards. How ignominious for them, what!
Sunday 10th May 2009
Due to circumstances beyond our control; namely the high winds of the past few days; we stayed at Great Haywood until this morning. Having arrived there from Rugeley on Thursday morning, battling head winds and cross winds for most of the journey, we did not feel obliged to suffer the same discomfort on Friday and, since we had much the same situation on Saturday, we decided to stay put for another day. Today however, the winds had dropped to a whisper, as predicted by the weatherman, so we upped sticks and took a slow cruise to Acton Trussel on the Staffs and Worcs canal, which is where we are now. We’re moored between lock 42 and bridge 94.
Now, I don’t know if I’ve mentioned this before, but I wonder if our readers give any though to what we boaters do with ourselves when we’re moored up. Of course it depends very much on our surroundings and the weather, but in a general sense we make every effort not to make any efforts, if you see what I mean. Anyway, for those of you who are interested, the following is a breakdown of a normal day.
Wifey being the lazier of us two, she rises about 07.30, which is about an hour after yours truly. Naturally, being the first up, I take doggy out for a quick nature call and I also do breakfast, which will consist of cereal on Monday to Friday, crumpets on Saturday and boiled eggs with toasty soldiers on Sunday. This morning we deviated somewhat from the norm because Wifey managed to find some Asparagus Spears, which she wrapped in bacon and roasted in the oven for use instead of toast to dip in our eggs.
Assuming we’re cruising in the morning, which we try to avoid at weekends, then we decide where to head for and, assuming no hold-ups, we’re usually away by 8 or 8.30, prior to which Sheila will take Rusty out for a proper nature call. Today, since we’d been sitting around for three days and despite the fact that it’s Sunday, we headed off for Acton Trussel after that. If possible she’ll also pop into a local shop for a paper before we go.
On arrival at our destination the day will very much follow thus: first thing is a cuppa. This really is a must, after which Wifey will take Rusty for another walk. Our mutt gets a little impatient to get out and sniff around in the new locale, so she really doesn’t have much choice. If we are lucky enough to have a daily paper to read, Sheila will be hard pressed to read it before Rusty’s nagging gives her the pip and she gives in.
Sometimes we’ll have a bite to eat about 1.30, then a proper meal later, say around 6.30 or so. At other times we’ll have a late lunch, or early dinner about 3.30 or 4.00 and a snack later in the evening whilst watching TV.
If there’s anything that needs doing to the boat, such as cleaning or, like today, a spot of varnishing, we’ll get stuck in to that. But most days we’ll chill out by sticking our noses in our books, or I might get the laptop out and catch up on emails, or the blog, or some additions to my recipe book. This is going quite well, I’m pleased to say and you’ll all get a copy when it’s finished.
Our evening starts at 6 pm when the BBC News comes on, but that depends on reception in the area, you landlubbers really do have it easy where TV is concerned. From 6 through 10 pm, assuming there’s something worth watching having tuned the aerial in, we’ll be sat in front of the box then it’s off to bed to rest up after a really exhausting day. Alternatively, we’ll probably stick noses in books again. And so it goes from day to day with just a few variations.
Sundays, as you know, I’ll do my very best to find a pub and enjoy a few pints of Guinness and a packet of nuts. Today is not one of those days unfortunately and they seem to be just a fading memory these days. My poor old knees are not getting any better and so, with great regret, I really have to be quite close to a pub otherwise I have to go without. Aaah!
The guitar practice has slowed down recently, but I’m trying to catch up now. I’ll never be a rock star or C&W singer now, but I’m hoping to at least find my way around the fretboard with some dexterity – eventually! I also have to find the inclination to start painting, that’s the water-colours and/or the canal art, both of which I really do want to get stuck into. We need a couple of paintings of roses and castles for the back doors and I have no plans for paying someone else to do them for us.
There you go, that’s our day, more or less. Now you know. More tomorrow, or not, as the case may be.
Monday 11th May 2009
And here we are at Penkridge. It was touch and go this morning as to whether we would go for it because the wind was pretty strong. But, since we will soon be in need of a pump-out, and the next place we’ll be likely to get it done is at Gailey and the weather is supposed to worsen for the rest of the week, it seemed; to paraphrase our esteemed PM when he was Chancellor; prudent to get moving.
Of course, the fact that there’s a decent watering-hole just a short walk away, and one that I can manage without too much distress, must have had some bearing on our decision. If the weather holds fair for tomorrow we’ll continue on to Coven – via Gailey for said pump-out – and another decent pub. This boating lark is not all doom and gloom.
Naturally we took advantage of The Boat, which is the nearby pub and, prior to doing so, Wifey trotted off for a bit of shopping. Unfortunately, it being a Monday, the butchers was closed, but we’re not desperate for meaty stuff and can wait for the next opportunity.
This is quite a pleasant little Staffordshire town, which boasts most of the usual amenities, including a Lloyds Bank, Post Office, Co-op and station amongst other things. According to Nicholsons blurb, the church of St Michael dates from the 11th C but with a restoration having taken place in 1881. It also holds an 18th C Dutch screen which was brought over from Cape Town and the tower is believed to be dated from around 1500. And that’s about to be said for Penkridge, except perhaps the line of private moorings called Tom’s lying opposite and the Infants School just beyond that. All in all a very pleasant stopover.
Now, having succeeded yet again in accessing the Internet, I shall proceed to post this blog. Hopefully the rest of the week will be pleasant enough weather wise, both to you and us.
Kind regards from:
Dave, Sheila and Rusty.
Thursday 7th May 2009
Yesterday we made our way from Fradley Junction to Rugeley and I for one was never more happy to come to a stop. The wind was so powerful that, on the open stretches, it was difficult to control the boat. Fortunately we had no locks to worry about and, since our moorings were between buildings, we were well sheltered.
The centre of Rugely is only 200 yards away from our moorings, so I decided to go with Wifey to the local Morrisons. Unfortunately I had a lot more faith in my legs than I should have, because the walk was agony. The problem is, if I don’t take a walk occasionally I seem to suffer more muscle pains than if I don’t take that walk. I seem to be between a rock and a hard place in this situation.
Anyway, back to Rugely, which has the canal passing through it and the River Trent passing it to the east. The town can, unhappily, lay claim to at least two murders, one of which was committed by a poisoner, whilst the other was the death of a young woman back in the early 19thC.
The town also boasts two churches, both of which ar by bridge 67. The parish church was built in 1822 to replace the other one which is a ruin of its former 14th C beauty. The infamous, but beautiful, Cannock Chase, which covers an area of 26 square miles, lies to the south of the town. Spode House, the home of the famous pottery family stands next to Hawkesyard Priory, which was founded in 1897 by Josiah Spodes grandson and niece Helen Gulson when they lived at Spode House.
There, I think that’s enough about Rugeley, which used to be called Rougeley, except to say that, as with many towns in the U.K. it too has suffered from the downturn, having lost several shops since we last visited.
Great Haywood Junction, which is about a mile north of our mooring, is the centre of the Great Haywood and Shugborough Conservation Area. Shugborough Hall lies to the west of the canal and once housed a family named Anson. Back in the 1740’s a gentleman of that name circumnavigated the globe. About 100 yards south of Haywood Lock is an old iron bridge, which goes absolutely nowhere. Many moons ago though, the bridge, which crossed the river and canal, was built in order for the Ansons to drive their horse and carriage to church on Sundays. Prior to that time the poor dears were obliged to walk the 300 yards. How ignominious for them, what!
Sunday 10th May 2009
Due to circumstances beyond our control; namely the high winds of the past few days; we stayed at Great Haywood until this morning. Having arrived there from Rugeley on Thursday morning, battling head winds and cross winds for most of the journey, we did not feel obliged to suffer the same discomfort on Friday and, since we had much the same situation on Saturday, we decided to stay put for another day. Today however, the winds had dropped to a whisper, as predicted by the weatherman, so we upped sticks and took a slow cruise to Acton Trussel on the Staffs and Worcs canal, which is where we are now. We’re moored between lock 42 and bridge 94.
Now, I don’t know if I’ve mentioned this before, but I wonder if our readers give any though to what we boaters do with ourselves when we’re moored up. Of course it depends very much on our surroundings and the weather, but in a general sense we make every effort not to make any efforts, if you see what I mean. Anyway, for those of you who are interested, the following is a breakdown of a normal day.
Wifey being the lazier of us two, she rises about 07.30, which is about an hour after yours truly. Naturally, being the first up, I take doggy out for a quick nature call and I also do breakfast, which will consist of cereal on Monday to Friday, crumpets on Saturday and boiled eggs with toasty soldiers on Sunday. This morning we deviated somewhat from the norm because Wifey managed to find some Asparagus Spears, which she wrapped in bacon and roasted in the oven for use instead of toast to dip in our eggs.
Assuming we’re cruising in the morning, which we try to avoid at weekends, then we decide where to head for and, assuming no hold-ups, we’re usually away by 8 or 8.30, prior to which Sheila will take Rusty out for a proper nature call. Today, since we’d been sitting around for three days and despite the fact that it’s Sunday, we headed off for Acton Trussel after that. If possible she’ll also pop into a local shop for a paper before we go.
On arrival at our destination the day will very much follow thus: first thing is a cuppa. This really is a must, after which Wifey will take Rusty for another walk. Our mutt gets a little impatient to get out and sniff around in the new locale, so she really doesn’t have much choice. If we are lucky enough to have a daily paper to read, Sheila will be hard pressed to read it before Rusty’s nagging gives her the pip and she gives in.
Sometimes we’ll have a bite to eat about 1.30, then a proper meal later, say around 6.30 or so. At other times we’ll have a late lunch, or early dinner about 3.30 or 4.00 and a snack later in the evening whilst watching TV.
If there’s anything that needs doing to the boat, such as cleaning or, like today, a spot of varnishing, we’ll get stuck in to that. But most days we’ll chill out by sticking our noses in our books, or I might get the laptop out and catch up on emails, or the blog, or some additions to my recipe book. This is going quite well, I’m pleased to say and you’ll all get a copy when it’s finished.
Our evening starts at 6 pm when the BBC News comes on, but that depends on reception in the area, you landlubbers really do have it easy where TV is concerned. From 6 through 10 pm, assuming there’s something worth watching having tuned the aerial in, we’ll be sat in front of the box then it’s off to bed to rest up after a really exhausting day. Alternatively, we’ll probably stick noses in books again. And so it goes from day to day with just a few variations.
Sundays, as you know, I’ll do my very best to find a pub and enjoy a few pints of Guinness and a packet of nuts. Today is not one of those days unfortunately and they seem to be just a fading memory these days. My poor old knees are not getting any better and so, with great regret, I really have to be quite close to a pub otherwise I have to go without. Aaah!
The guitar practice has slowed down recently, but I’m trying to catch up now. I’ll never be a rock star or C&W singer now, but I’m hoping to at least find my way around the fretboard with some dexterity – eventually! I also have to find the inclination to start painting, that’s the water-colours and/or the canal art, both of which I really do want to get stuck into. We need a couple of paintings of roses and castles for the back doors and I have no plans for paying someone else to do them for us.
There you go, that’s our day, more or less. Now you know. More tomorrow, or not, as the case may be.
Monday 11th May 2009
And here we are at Penkridge. It was touch and go this morning as to whether we would go for it because the wind was pretty strong. But, since we will soon be in need of a pump-out, and the next place we’ll be likely to get it done is at Gailey and the weather is supposed to worsen for the rest of the week, it seemed; to paraphrase our esteemed PM when he was Chancellor; prudent to get moving.
Of course, the fact that there’s a decent watering-hole just a short walk away, and one that I can manage without too much distress, must have had some bearing on our decision. If the weather holds fair for tomorrow we’ll continue on to Coven – via Gailey for said pump-out – and another decent pub. This boating lark is not all doom and gloom.
Naturally we took advantage of The Boat, which is the nearby pub and, prior to doing so, Wifey trotted off for a bit of shopping. Unfortunately, it being a Monday, the butchers was closed, but we’re not desperate for meaty stuff and can wait for the next opportunity.
This is quite a pleasant little Staffordshire town, which boasts most of the usual amenities, including a Lloyds Bank, Post Office, Co-op and station amongst other things. According to Nicholsons blurb, the church of St Michael dates from the 11th C but with a restoration having taken place in 1881. It also holds an 18th C Dutch screen which was brought over from Cape Town and the tower is believed to be dated from around 1500. And that’s about to be said for Penkridge, except perhaps the line of private moorings called Tom’s lying opposite and the Infants School just beyond that. All in all a very pleasant stopover.
Now, having succeeded yet again in accessing the Internet, I shall proceed to post this blog. Hopefully the rest of the week will be pleasant enough weather wise, both to you and us.
Kind regards from:
Dave, Sheila and Rusty.
Tuesday 5 May 2009
Hillmorton to Fradley Junction
Hi folks, it is now a quarter past four on Saturday 25th April and, since posting the last blog, I have been struggling with Outlook and Outlook Express.
Once again I gave 3G a call in order to discover whether there had been any changes to how they receive and send on messages from their USB Modems. Lo and behold, I have now been informed, that all settings for O and OE had, just recently, been changed.
Anyway, like a good little customer, I proceeded to change the settings in OE, but to no avail. I was just about to give them another bell, when I suddenly decided to change the settings in Outlook. Lo and behold, this time it worked and sent a test message for me. For the life of me I do not understand why Outlook Express won’t work but Outlook will. The only difference between them is that Outlook comes with the rather expensive, MS Office, whereas Outlook is included with Internet Explorer, which, as everybody knows, is a freebee with almost any computer you can shake a stick at.
So, all is now well. I really don’t give a monkey’s which of the two I use, just so long as it works.
Sunday 26th April 2009
Are we really still in April? It seems like months since we left Bulbourne, yet it’s only three weeks! We seem to have covered so much distance since leaving but, on looking back on our log, it’s only 58 miles. S’amazing!
Anyway, as it started out a really sunny day we decide to move on and save ourselves a couple of miles tomorrow. As I write this we have covered just two miles and travelled through Hillmorton Locks, of which there are three. In fact there are six, but they are doubled up which is pretty unique. The only other place that we’ve come across with a similar arrangement, is on the Trent and Mersey. It’s very useful when the canal is busy, such as at holiday times, because it alleviates the need to queue at locks.
So, we’re now at Bridge 66 and the plan is to make for Rugby tomorrow so that Wifey can do some much needed shopping, then we’ll be off to Brinklow.
Monday 27th April 2009
So much for Brinklow and shopping today, it is, as the weather forecasters predicted yesterday, persisting. So, unless it stops chucking it down in apparent preparation for the next flood, we’re staying put.
So, here we are, still at bridge 66 and, quite likely, we’ll remain here for the rest of the day, which means I can carry on with my recipe book.
Later folks.
Tuesday 28th April 2009
Once again we’ve been lucky with the weather. It started out dry, though a little chilly, and continued dry through our stopover at Rugby for shopping and throughout the six miles to Brinkley, which is where we are now. We’ve stopped here before and it really is as peaceful as you could wish for. Tomorrow, with luck, we’ll make Hawkesbury Junction with the Coventry Canal, where I’m hoping to catch up on my Sunday lunchtime drink.
Wednesday 29th April 2009
Once again we’ve surfaced to a bright and sunny day, and so we’re off to Hawkesbury Junction, which joins the North Oxford Canal to the Coventry Canal. It’s only seven miles away and, apart from the shallow lock at the junction, there are no locks to worry about. With luck we’ll be there by 11 am and, around about midday or so, we’ll pop off to the Greyhound pub for a snifter or three.
We never, ever cruise twice in one day. Today, having enjoyed the hospitality of said Greyhound, and whilst musing over my second pint of Guinness, I suddenly suggested we might get moving again.
Now, bear in mind we’d already travelled seven miles, my suggestion was another seven to Springwood Marina. There was some method in my madness because, as we both knew, rain was forecast for Thursday and we rather hoped to make Polesworth before the weekend. There was also the fact that we were fast approaching the time when we’d need a pump out.
So, having finished up our drinks and snacks, we strolled nonchalantly back to Shiralee and got under way. The trip took us just over 2 ½ hours and, by the time we’d pumped out, topped up the diesel tank, loaded up with coal and a new gas bottle we were moored up by about 4.30 or so. Just in time too, because the wind had started gusting quite strongly by then.
Come the morning of Thursday 30th April and, despite dire warnings of rain and, since the cloud cover was quite light and high up, we untied and ventured forth for another day of high drama. (Steady now David, calm down!!)
So, after another four miles and five locks, here we are at Atherstone. I, for one, have not forgotten the last time we passed through this town. As I recall, I was quite able to walk the whole length of the High Street with Sheila and do a bit of shopping. I distinctly remember calling in to a local bakery and buying some pork pies, which is a luxury I’m never without.
Just for a change, I thought, I’ll buy some freshly made bakery pies. What a disaster! And what a load of rubbish. I don’t believe I’ve ever tasted worse. If you’ve ever made your own pork pies, as I have on more than one occasion, you will know that finely minced sausage meat is NOT what goes into a decent pork pie. Yeuk!! Needless to say they were thrown out with the bath water.
Tomorrow seems set fair for brighter weather, so we’ll be heading off to Polesworth as intended. Oh, by the bye, I did manage to accompany Wifey into Atherstone for the shopping, but my legs knew about it by the time we got back. But, I really can’t be sitting on the boat all day every day, I really must get some exercise, Mustn’t I?
All for now.
Friday 1st May 2009
Today we’re at Polesworth, which is where we intended to stay for the weekend. However, two things are preventing us from doing so. One is the fact that, try as I might, I can’t receive much by way of TV programmes. The other is, that having tried to accompany Wifey to the shops, only to discover it was too far, I simply won’t be able to go for my usual Sunday drink. Now, I really don’t mind missing the drink, but I’m hanged if I’ll sit here, for the best part of three days, and stare at the walls of the boat. So tomorrow, even though it’s a Saturday when we normally would not cruise, we’ll be going on to Hopwas, where I know there are two pubs within walking distance. That’s walking distance for me, that is.
Still, today has not been wasted. I’ve been down the engine bay and checked and topped up the batteries and, whilst doing so, discovered something I’d not noticed before. I mean to say, we’ve had the boat for 2 ½ years and I’ve lost count of the times I’ve topped up the batteries. How I missed the 7th filler cap on the starter battery I shall never know. Everybody knows that a car battery - which is all these are but bigger - has six charge plates in them. Nobody ever told me that this one had seven. It looks no bigger than all the other batteries, but it certainly has seven filler caps.
Of course this begs the question, how did I miss it each time I checked? The answer is simple, I was only looking for six, so I only found six. So there. No harm done, the engine always starts first time, and the extra cell I found certainly wasn’t empty.
Sunday 3rd May 2009
Came down from Polesworth to Hopwas yesterday in the vain hope that we’d receive better TV reception. Alas, the only two channels we can watch that don’t jump about and go scratchy on sound, are BBC2 and Channel 5. So, we’re still no better off than we were really. No problem though, at least they have a couple of decent pubs here, and they are both big, with big gardens and are placed each side of the canal.
Last time we came through here they had a small shop that did some groceries, but that has shut down. There is, apparently, a Mace store somewhere nearby, but the local map is not too clear about its location. Anyway, we’re here now, and here we’ll stay until Monday morning, when we’ll go on to Fradley Junction, which joins the Coventry Canal to the Trent and Mersey.
Monday 4th May 2009
Hello from Huddlesford. We had intended to leave Hopwas about 8 am but, as is quite normal for a Bank Holiday, it was raining, so we stayed put until 9 o/clock by which time the rain was quite light. We hadn’t really decided how far to go, but were hoping to get to Fradley Junction, which joins the Coventry to the Trent and Mersey. In the event and because it was pretty chilly out on deck, we pulled in at Huddlesford where it just so happens, there’s a decent country pub called The Plough. Unfortunately for me the pain killers I’m taking for my knees are upsetting my tummy. Aaah! So, I probably won’t bother today and will leave it until we get to Fradley.
Just recently, while the weather has been quite mild, we have allowed the fire to go out so that we could give the chimney a sweep. By the time we arrived at Huddlesford the rain had stopped, thus presenting us with the opportunity to get that little chore out of the way. The soot inside the stack was reducing the diameter by about an inch, so it was well past its sell by date.
Up until now I’ve omitted to pass on details of the places we pass through and stop at. You have my abject apologies for this oversight, which I shall do my best to correct from the next blog. Truth to tell, anyone who has read the blogs from ’07 and ’08 will already be familiar with all the places we’ve been through so far this year, so you’ve not really missed out on much.
Tuesday 5th May 2009
Hi from Fradley Junction, which joins the Coventry Canal to the Trent and Mersey.
We arrived here this morning at about 10 am after stopping off at the village of Fradley for a bit of shopping. When I say “we”, I really mean Wifey because there’s no way I could walk into the village these days. So, for future reference, I mean Sheila when I say shopping. Thank goodness we don’t both have dodgy knees else we’d starve.
Yesterday at Huddlesford I tried to get online but, despite the wretched Modem being connected, I still couldn’t do so. However, as luck would have it, we’re OK here at Fradley. So, just as soon as I finish this, I’ll post it.
Actually there’s not much to add, except to say that I finally caught up with my Sunday drink. The local here is The Swan, affectionately known as The Mucky Duck by the locals and all boaters, including us now. I have to say I rather enjoyed my couple of pints of Guinness and, at just £2.80 a go, I save 40p on prices at Bulbourne and Harlow. We also had a meal, mine being half a roast chicken and Sheila’s being the Steak and Ale Pie. We’re now set for the night and will poodle off to Rugely, on the Trent and Mersey tomorrow.
Until next time when, as promised, I’ll try to include some small items of interest about the places we’re passing through or stopping at.
Cheers for now from Dave, Sheila and Rusty.
Hi folks, it is now a quarter past four on Saturday 25th April and, since posting the last blog, I have been struggling with Outlook and Outlook Express.
Once again I gave 3G a call in order to discover whether there had been any changes to how they receive and send on messages from their USB Modems. Lo and behold, I have now been informed, that all settings for O and OE had, just recently, been changed.
Anyway, like a good little customer, I proceeded to change the settings in OE, but to no avail. I was just about to give them another bell, when I suddenly decided to change the settings in Outlook. Lo and behold, this time it worked and sent a test message for me. For the life of me I do not understand why Outlook Express won’t work but Outlook will. The only difference between them is that Outlook comes with the rather expensive, MS Office, whereas Outlook is included with Internet Explorer, which, as everybody knows, is a freebee with almost any computer you can shake a stick at.
So, all is now well. I really don’t give a monkey’s which of the two I use, just so long as it works.
Sunday 26th April 2009
Are we really still in April? It seems like months since we left Bulbourne, yet it’s only three weeks! We seem to have covered so much distance since leaving but, on looking back on our log, it’s only 58 miles. S’amazing!
Anyway, as it started out a really sunny day we decide to move on and save ourselves a couple of miles tomorrow. As I write this we have covered just two miles and travelled through Hillmorton Locks, of which there are three. In fact there are six, but they are doubled up which is pretty unique. The only other place that we’ve come across with a similar arrangement, is on the Trent and Mersey. It’s very useful when the canal is busy, such as at holiday times, because it alleviates the need to queue at locks.
So, we’re now at Bridge 66 and the plan is to make for Rugby tomorrow so that Wifey can do some much needed shopping, then we’ll be off to Brinklow.
Monday 27th April 2009
So much for Brinklow and shopping today, it is, as the weather forecasters predicted yesterday, persisting. So, unless it stops chucking it down in apparent preparation for the next flood, we’re staying put.
So, here we are, still at bridge 66 and, quite likely, we’ll remain here for the rest of the day, which means I can carry on with my recipe book.
Later folks.
Tuesday 28th April 2009
Once again we’ve been lucky with the weather. It started out dry, though a little chilly, and continued dry through our stopover at Rugby for shopping and throughout the six miles to Brinkley, which is where we are now. We’ve stopped here before and it really is as peaceful as you could wish for. Tomorrow, with luck, we’ll make Hawkesbury Junction with the Coventry Canal, where I’m hoping to catch up on my Sunday lunchtime drink.
Wednesday 29th April 2009
Once again we’ve surfaced to a bright and sunny day, and so we’re off to Hawkesbury Junction, which joins the North Oxford Canal to the Coventry Canal. It’s only seven miles away and, apart from the shallow lock at the junction, there are no locks to worry about. With luck we’ll be there by 11 am and, around about midday or so, we’ll pop off to the Greyhound pub for a snifter or three.
We never, ever cruise twice in one day. Today, having enjoyed the hospitality of said Greyhound, and whilst musing over my second pint of Guinness, I suddenly suggested we might get moving again.
Now, bear in mind we’d already travelled seven miles, my suggestion was another seven to Springwood Marina. There was some method in my madness because, as we both knew, rain was forecast for Thursday and we rather hoped to make Polesworth before the weekend. There was also the fact that we were fast approaching the time when we’d need a pump out.
So, having finished up our drinks and snacks, we strolled nonchalantly back to Shiralee and got under way. The trip took us just over 2 ½ hours and, by the time we’d pumped out, topped up the diesel tank, loaded up with coal and a new gas bottle we were moored up by about 4.30 or so. Just in time too, because the wind had started gusting quite strongly by then.
Come the morning of Thursday 30th April and, despite dire warnings of rain and, since the cloud cover was quite light and high up, we untied and ventured forth for another day of high drama. (Steady now David, calm down!!)
So, after another four miles and five locks, here we are at Atherstone. I, for one, have not forgotten the last time we passed through this town. As I recall, I was quite able to walk the whole length of the High Street with Sheila and do a bit of shopping. I distinctly remember calling in to a local bakery and buying some pork pies, which is a luxury I’m never without.
Just for a change, I thought, I’ll buy some freshly made bakery pies. What a disaster! And what a load of rubbish. I don’t believe I’ve ever tasted worse. If you’ve ever made your own pork pies, as I have on more than one occasion, you will know that finely minced sausage meat is NOT what goes into a decent pork pie. Yeuk!! Needless to say they were thrown out with the bath water.
Tomorrow seems set fair for brighter weather, so we’ll be heading off to Polesworth as intended. Oh, by the bye, I did manage to accompany Wifey into Atherstone for the shopping, but my legs knew about it by the time we got back. But, I really can’t be sitting on the boat all day every day, I really must get some exercise, Mustn’t I?
All for now.
Friday 1st May 2009
Today we’re at Polesworth, which is where we intended to stay for the weekend. However, two things are preventing us from doing so. One is the fact that, try as I might, I can’t receive much by way of TV programmes. The other is, that having tried to accompany Wifey to the shops, only to discover it was too far, I simply won’t be able to go for my usual Sunday drink. Now, I really don’t mind missing the drink, but I’m hanged if I’ll sit here, for the best part of three days, and stare at the walls of the boat. So tomorrow, even though it’s a Saturday when we normally would not cruise, we’ll be going on to Hopwas, where I know there are two pubs within walking distance. That’s walking distance for me, that is.
Still, today has not been wasted. I’ve been down the engine bay and checked and topped up the batteries and, whilst doing so, discovered something I’d not noticed before. I mean to say, we’ve had the boat for 2 ½ years and I’ve lost count of the times I’ve topped up the batteries. How I missed the 7th filler cap on the starter battery I shall never know. Everybody knows that a car battery - which is all these are but bigger - has six charge plates in them. Nobody ever told me that this one had seven. It looks no bigger than all the other batteries, but it certainly has seven filler caps.
Of course this begs the question, how did I miss it each time I checked? The answer is simple, I was only looking for six, so I only found six. So there. No harm done, the engine always starts first time, and the extra cell I found certainly wasn’t empty.
Sunday 3rd May 2009
Came down from Polesworth to Hopwas yesterday in the vain hope that we’d receive better TV reception. Alas, the only two channels we can watch that don’t jump about and go scratchy on sound, are BBC2 and Channel 5. So, we’re still no better off than we were really. No problem though, at least they have a couple of decent pubs here, and they are both big, with big gardens and are placed each side of the canal.
Last time we came through here they had a small shop that did some groceries, but that has shut down. There is, apparently, a Mace store somewhere nearby, but the local map is not too clear about its location. Anyway, we’re here now, and here we’ll stay until Monday morning, when we’ll go on to Fradley Junction, which joins the Coventry Canal to the Trent and Mersey.
Monday 4th May 2009
Hello from Huddlesford. We had intended to leave Hopwas about 8 am but, as is quite normal for a Bank Holiday, it was raining, so we stayed put until 9 o/clock by which time the rain was quite light. We hadn’t really decided how far to go, but were hoping to get to Fradley Junction, which joins the Coventry to the Trent and Mersey. In the event and because it was pretty chilly out on deck, we pulled in at Huddlesford where it just so happens, there’s a decent country pub called The Plough. Unfortunately for me the pain killers I’m taking for my knees are upsetting my tummy. Aaah! So, I probably won’t bother today and will leave it until we get to Fradley.
Just recently, while the weather has been quite mild, we have allowed the fire to go out so that we could give the chimney a sweep. By the time we arrived at Huddlesford the rain had stopped, thus presenting us with the opportunity to get that little chore out of the way. The soot inside the stack was reducing the diameter by about an inch, so it was well past its sell by date.
Up until now I’ve omitted to pass on details of the places we pass through and stop at. You have my abject apologies for this oversight, which I shall do my best to correct from the next blog. Truth to tell, anyone who has read the blogs from ’07 and ’08 will already be familiar with all the places we’ve been through so far this year, so you’ve not really missed out on much.
Tuesday 5th May 2009
Hi from Fradley Junction, which joins the Coventry Canal to the Trent and Mersey.
We arrived here this morning at about 10 am after stopping off at the village of Fradley for a bit of shopping. When I say “we”, I really mean Wifey because there’s no way I could walk into the village these days. So, for future reference, I mean Sheila when I say shopping. Thank goodness we don’t both have dodgy knees else we’d starve.
Yesterday at Huddlesford I tried to get online but, despite the wretched Modem being connected, I still couldn’t do so. However, as luck would have it, we’re OK here at Fradley. So, just as soon as I finish this, I’ll post it.
Actually there’s not much to add, except to say that I finally caught up with my Sunday drink. The local here is The Swan, affectionately known as The Mucky Duck by the locals and all boaters, including us now. I have to say I rather enjoyed my couple of pints of Guinness and, at just £2.80 a go, I save 40p on prices at Bulbourne and Harlow. We also had a meal, mine being half a roast chicken and Sheila’s being the Steak and Ale Pie. We’re now set for the night and will poodle off to Rugely, on the Trent and Mersey tomorrow.
Until next time when, as promised, I’ll try to include some small items of interest about the places we’re passing through or stopping at.
Cheers for now from Dave, Sheila and Rusty.
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