Thursday 19th May
The trip from Trefor to Llangollen is about three miles or so and includes a couple of winding stretches that are only wide enough for one boat to pass through. This is fun for Sheila, because it means she can take her mobile on a nice walk and, when she reaches the part where it widens out again, she can warn me of any boats already making their way through. If it is clear, she then advises me to carry on and stops other boats approaching whilst I am in the narrow bit. Goodness knows what lone boaters are supposed to do.
Saturday 21st May and we must leave Llangollen this morning, our 48 hours are up. The plan is, and this assumes the weather is kind to us, to make our way back to Whitehouse Tunnel, which is where we were moored prior to crossing the big aqueduct. Total journey is about six miles, which should only take about three hours.
Last time we were here at Llangollen, it took us an hour just to turn the boat around. From our moorings at the Wharf it is necessary to go down to the basin, which entails a stretch of canal that is only wide enough for one boat. The delay arises when other boaters, who also want to get away reasonably early, come up from the basin first. This morning, with it being a Saturday, Wifey wants to go into the town for a paper and some milk, so we won’t be leaving early.
Anyway, I digress, this part is supposed to be about yesterday and our afternoon walk down to Horseshoe Falls. After our short trip into town for stuff we had forgotten on Thursday, we returned for a cuppa and a read of the paper and, since I was unable to do so on our last visit a couple of years ago, we set off for the falls which are, according to our Nicholson Guide, about 1½ miles away. I realised that this was a somewhat ambitious idea on my part, but was not going to be deterred.
At a steady plod, I thought, this should not take more than an hour. After all, even though I am still a little slow, the average walking pace is somewhere near 4 mph, isn’t it??
The scenery along the way, especially the view down into the town and across the valley is quite amazing and I must confess to giving the Olympus a bit of a bashing, 76 photos in all. Mostly amateur I’m sad to say, but amongst them some really pretty ones, even if I do say so myself.
After more than an hour of this steady plod and with no sign of the falls, I was beginning to wonder if they existed and, more importantly, Rusty appeared to be lagging behind a bit. Sadly, like all bad dog owners and lovers, we had neglected to take water with us. However we did manage to find a shallow part of the canal along the way and encouraged her to sip a drop or two.
Eventually, after 1½ hours, the falls came in sight and a very welcome sight it was. By this time my calf muscles were screaming and Rusty was looking very weary. But, she’s a game dog and, just as soon as Sheila directed her at the water, she was in and frolicking around like a pup.
If the distance is only 1½ miles then we only achieved 1 mph, which is awfully slow, even by my standards and my legs were complaining bitterly. But, enough of this whingeing, we hung around for a while, taking in the scenery and snapping a few more photos and, for my part, in no hurry to plod back again.
The return trip took us another hour and a half, with still more photos snapped and, by the time we reached the wharf, I was ready for an ice cream and so was Rusty. What a dog, after all that walking which, for a 13 year old is no mean feat, and especially after the swim and plenty of water, she led from the front all the way back. She never ceases to amaze us with her energy, one minute I’m thinking I’ll have to carry her back and the next minute she’s putting us both to shame. Whatever she’s got I wish it could be bottled!!
Just one more whinge, if you please, I really did suffer after that walk. Within half an hour of sitting down my legs had become almost useless and, as for sleeping last night, I didn’t get much of that either. Still, the weather out there is pretty calm at present and, if we can get away at a reasonable time, we’ll be at the tunnel before lunchtime.
One thing we have noticed along this stretch from the tunnel to Llangollen, we are not able to pick up all the Freeview channels. This is no great loss really because, as you probably all know, there really isn’t much to look forward to these days. Last night we only bothered with three programmes, the News at Six, A Question of Sport and Have I Got News for You. I’m beginning to wonder if it was wise to replace our old TV.
It is 14 miles to Whittington and, if we can make Whitehouse Tunnel today then we should be in line for a Sunday Roast at The Narrow Boat Inn and, at just £5.50 a pop, that’s got to be worth the effort. Of course, the weather might decide to blast us with wet and wind, but I’m hopeful.
Monday 23rd May.
We actually got away from Llangollen quite early on Saturday, about 07.15. Sheila took an early walk into town while I turned the boat around. From our moorings on the wharf it is a short run, through a single boats width, down to the basin. So, Sheila went ahead to make sure it was clear and, while I was passing through and turning around, she went off for paper and milk. When she returned she did the same again, only in reverse then twice more for the other two narrow stretches. We arrived at Whitehouse Tunnel at 10.15.
We had only thought to stay for one night then move on to Chirk or beyond, but the wind was so strong we decided to stay another night. I’m not sure this was such a good idea, because holiday boaters in the main are a pretty useless lot. It’s not really their fault, because they are not used to handling these boats when it is windy and, as far as I’m concerned, on days of high winds the boat companies should not be hiring out.
We were struck at least four times by passing boats, all of them from hire companies and, on one occasion quite forcefully at the bow. Had I not been keeping a lookout our TV would have ended up on the floor. Of course the people on the boat think it is highly amusing and get a pretty ugly response from yours truly. We also lost a side fender during these knockabouts, so I’m even more unhappy. Well, they do say that boating is a contact sport!
The weather forecast for today is more wind and rain, but we have started with a calm morning. If the wind holds off and we can get across Chirk aqueduct, I’ll be a very happy bunny. Unfortunately I am in the grip of man flu once again, so it won’t be a very pleasant trip. But, as usual, being a rough and tough boater, I’ll soldier on without complaint!!
Next stop, hopefully, The Poacher’s Pocket pub, I hope, although it’s doubtful I’ll be partaking of their booze today, even if we do get that far.
Tuesday 24th May
Although there appears to be a pretty stiff breeze, the day has started with a clear sky. Now that we’re back in England, I’m hopeful it will stay that way. Not to demean ales in any way but, those of you who have stayed with Aunty Bob and Uncle Ron will be well aware of the change in weather during a single day. Aunty would often comment that, ‘if the hilltops are obscured by mist in the morning, the afternoon will be great’. Of course, the opposite also applied. Now that we are in much flatter country perhaps we can enjoy some stable weather.
We stayed overnight just outside a pub called “The Poacher’s Pocket” but, due to this pesky ‘man flu’, I was too under-the-weather to even contemplate a drink. Besides which I prefer to do my drinking early in the day; say between midday and 2 pm; but we arrived rather late due to bad weather.
We hemmed and hawed about leaving our moorings the other side of Whitehouse Tunnel but, eventually, and despite the wind and also not wanting to be bashed about any more, we decided to go for it. Well, we got as far as the moorings near Chirk Tunnel, by which time we were thoroughly fed up with being rained on, that we stopped for, we thought, the rest of the day.
In the event it did brighten up and so we made our way down to the tunnel. Unfortunately, since the Llangollen Canal is so popular and appears to carry more holiday boats than privately owned ones, we were obliged to wait for, by my count, nine boats to come through from the other end. Since proper mooring spaces are very limited here, all we could do was hold the boat with ropes and wait for them to pass.
So, like I said, we arrived here rather later than normal and, what with this head cold, decided not to bother with the pub.
We had planned on paying a visit to the Canal Boat (or should that be Narrowboat) at Whittington on our return, but since that’s where we should be today, and since I’ve had a lousy night, I’m none too sure we’ll bother with it. Although, since Sheila was rather keen on the idea when we last moored there, we might still do so. I’m such a nice man really!!
Wednesday 25th May.
As promised by those nice weather people we have a sunny start to our day.
We are probably off the Whittington, today which is where the Narrowboat pub is situated and where, if this blasted cold has eased off by then, we may just enjoy a meal for a change.
Our next stop after Whittington will be the Montgomery Canal. In order to enter this one and because they are rather fussy about upsetting the ecology of the place, you first have to telephone and book passage and, on top of that, only a set number of boats are allowed on the canal. The current navigable length is only about seven miles, although the rest is being worked on. It will be interesting to see just how much more restoration work has been carried out since our last visit.
Friday 27th May
We didn’t quite make it to Whittington on Wednesday, stopping short between bridges 6 and 7 and, with nothing except open countryside to distract, we simply chilled out for the day.
Yesterday it looked as though we would be staying put for another day but, with a break in the cloud and a little less wind, we decided to make a move to the Montgomery. Passage onto the canal must be booked before 10 am, which we only just managed, after which we weighed anchor and set off.
With the Monty being only a mile or so away we knew it would only take about 45 minutes to reach and that was very much the case. However, we hadn’t reckoned on the weather closing in and soaking us before we arrived. Fortunately we still have the giant umbrella our son David gave us and, for the most part kept much of the rain off.
Bearing in mind the distance and the fact that travel onto and back from the Monty, is only allowed between 12 noon and 2 pm, we therefore had over an hour to kill before going down the locks; of which there are four, a staircase pair and a two singles. Unbeknown to us however, there were 8 boats booked to go down and another 11 coming up, which meant a considerable delay.
With staircase locks; which consist of compartments that merge directly together through dividing gates, it is necessary for one boat to pass through both parts in one direction after which the next boat comes through from the other direction. The lock-keeper really does have his work cut out at these, especially when he has to control the movements of 19 boats at one go. Once committed to the task, whatever the weather, it is not possible to stop.
Eventually, after much faffing about – and holiday boaters are not renowned for assisting other boaters, which would speed up the process considerably – we arrived at the Weston Branch of the Monty at 2 pm, with five boats still waiting to come up to the Llangollen.
The Weston Branch is a mooring area with BW facilities, such as pump-out, Elsan disposal, toilets and water points, and we have stayed overnight last time we were here. If it rains anything like it did yesterday, we’ll probably stay another night. Our intention is to get down the full seven mile navigable length to where there is a turning point and a shop.
There is also the pub I mentioned, The Navigation Inn but, judging by the prices of meals in the leaflet the lock-keeper gave us, the owners are not keen on boaters these days. Two courses for £20.05 is, I think, rather steep and, when you consider that starters kick off at £4.50 and rise to £7.50, I don’t believe we’ll bother this time. This pub even has a separate Bargee’s Menu – and we’re not bargees, we’re boaters – which is the section I took the starter prices from, and the cheapest meal in that section of the menu is £7.95, for baked ham and sautéed potatoes. The Bargees menu is only available Tuesday – Saturday evenings and Wednesday – Saturday lunch. Is that discrimination or what?? Nah! They can stick it this time around.
Alternativeley, about half way down the canal is another pub, The Queen’s Head which, if that lock-keeper is right, offers very good meals at fair prices, so we may call there on the way back.
Saturday 28th May, and I’ll give my report about the Monty in my next posting. Right now I have some other stuff to follow up and, since this is now nine pages long, here’s hoping I can get online.
Cheers for now
Dave, Sheila and pooch.
Friday, 27 May 2011
Wednesday, 18 May 2011
Shiralee Cruise 2011 #6
Sunday 15th May and we moored up somewhere n the wilds of woolly Shropshire, at least, I think we’re still in Shropshire.
This morning I just about managed to connect to the Internet, but with only 2 of 5 bars up, which is a pretty weak signal.
I had a total of 23 emails to download and managed to collect about 15 of them, when that pesky error message came up telling me nothing more could be downloaded. But I tried again and this time got them all, including the one from Mr Oxley.
For some reason though, best known to the innards of this laptop, it wouldn’t open the picture. This is probably some security thingy going on to protect my computer, which is rather annoying because, if I didn’t want the blessed thing then I wouldn’t try to open it, now would I?
So, something else for me to get my head around.
At the start of our short trip yesterday we needed to stop off for water and get rid of some rubbish. Opposite the entrance to the Ellesmere arm is a BW Section set aside for just that purpose, but there were already three boats there and so, in the already strong wind we had to moor up opposite for a while. Then just as we were about to move in after a boat had pulled out, another boat pulled in. This situation, as you all know, happens all too often in car parks.
Eventually another boat moved on and we moved in to do the necessary and, would you believe it, the boater who had pulled in ahead of us, had the temerity to ask if we’d been waiting long. He thought we were simply moored there! Grrrrr!!!
Anyway, being already in a foul mood that morning and being stuck in this interminable high wind, I decided on just a short trip, which is why we are now miles from nowhere.
At the moment, 06.40, there is just a slight breeze and a clear sky, so we just might make it to our designated mooring spot for the pub. However, if my dicky tummy doesn’t settle down by then, that won’t happen either. Happy days!
Monday 16th May.
Yesterday we made our way to Whittington and The Narrow Boat pub, a pub we had not visited on our last run through the Llangollen. Although still windy, the trip proved quite easy and very scenic. It still amazes me just how much open countryside exists in this area, it really is one of the most relaxing cruises in the country.
We arrived here at about 09.30 and settled down with a cuppa before heeding Rusty’s groans about, ‘we’re here now, why haven’t I been taken out to investigate the place?’. She’s the same every time we move to a new spot, whine, whine, whine, until she gets her way. Typical woman!!
The Narrow Boat, a very well appointed watering hole that we intend eating at on our return. Our visit at Sunday lunchtime saw all tables set for lunch, so it really must be a very popular pub/restaurant, because there are very few houses anywhere near the pub and people have to drive to it. Also, many of the table had been reserved, which tells me that they attract a good crowd of regular eaters, at least on Sundays.
I did ask about midweek bookings and was told we should have no problem finding a table, either lunchtime or evening, so this is a must on our return visit. The prices look very reasonable too, with a Sunday roast at just £5.50, a real bargain. My pint of Guinness though, at £3.20, I thought a wee bit high but, for such a clean and bright establishment, is nothing to be too concerned about. One of the better canal side pubs we’ve visited.
Today we’re heading for Chirk and will moor up a little way before the tunnel and aqueduct, from which point we’ll walk into town for some odd and ends of shopping, and we’ll tackle the two obstacles on Tuesday. We’re expecting rain this morning, so we don’t expect a very pleasant trip but, since we don’t really want to stay here at Whittington, it must be done.
1500, same day.
Arrived Chirk Bank at 10.15 and put the kettle on. After a well earned cuppa and dog has been taken out, we decided to take a walk into Chirk for some shopping. Now, this quaint little town is, supposedly, only ½ a mile away. What my dear wife neglected to mention, although she was adamant she didn’t know, was that it was all uphill and not just an English hill, this is a really good stretch of the legs, Welsh hill. By the time we reached the top I had worked up a bit of a sweat and, once the shopping was done, we sat at the bus stop and enjoyed an ice cream each. We then trudged down that hill, which was a far easier proposition.
Day Boats are the bane of ordinary boaters, whether they be holiday makers or, like ourselves, live-aboards. For some inexplicable reason, probably because day boats are quite small, the hirers of these damned nuisance machines think the rules don’t apply to them. Now, it is virtually impossible to drive these things at more than about six MPH but, when one of those things come past at top speed, the bow wave has to be seen to be believed.
The one that raced past us at Chirk Bank; which we are almost certain came from the boatyard at Maestermyn, very nearly caused a serious incident with an oncoming holiday boat. Despite my yelling at the moron driving, to slow down, he, in his arrogance, increased throttle. Had it not been for the ability of the other boater heading towards him, the result could have been disastrous. Yes, even at six MPH. It really doesn’t take much of a knock to throw people into the canal, only to be struck by one or other of the boats involved.
Why, oh why, don’t the owners of these boats put a speed limiter on them? Four MPH is the maximum speed allowed on canals, so it should be a simple matter to limit them to just that. Better yet, subject would-be hirers to a dose of what it feels like to be rammed by one of these things.
Tomorrow, through Chirk Tunnel and over the aqueduct, or is that the other way about?
Wednesday 18th May and so far we have been very fortunate in our travels along this canal, very little rain whilst on the move. Yesterday we made an early start and were on the move by 07.45. Along the way we passed another boat and I passed comment to the man at the tiller, ‘Early Start?’, to which he replied, ‘We started out at 5 o/clock’. What!! Are they mad? Blimey, we like a reasonably early start, if only to limit the amount of mini-disasters we’re likely to encounter from holiday boaters. But, 5 o/clock, I’m only just getting out of bed then, and besides, I’d never get Wifey up before 07.00.
Anyway, we had Chirk Aqueduct to pass over and the tunnel at 459 yards, followed by the Whitehouse Tunnel at just 191 yards, so no real obstacles there. As I’ve mentioned before, with this canal being fed by the River Dee at Llangollen, there is something of a current against us. Ordinarily this is not a problem but, when it comes to bridges and tunnels, it becomes more pronounced. Going through bridges the water pressure against the boat increases somewhat; a bit like squeezing a hose pipe; but all that requires is a bit more throttle. Going through tunnels and over aqueducts means travelling crab-wise, it doesn’t seem to matter how much extra throttle is applied, it’s impossible to keep a straight course. Fortunately the rubbing strake along the side of the boat prevents any damage to paintwork.
We arrived at the other end of Whitehouse tunnel and pulled in to moor up at about 09.45. Rusty was feeling under the weather again, which is rather worrying, but there is little we can do for her because, apparently, this is a quite common problem in older dogs. She’s about 13 years old now, so I guess we’ll have to consider being a bit more choosy with her diet.
Whilst walking with her later in the day, I happened to meet up with the owner of the boat moored in front of us, who was walking with his two lurchers. I asked him if he perhaps knew what Rusty’s problem might be, and he virtually repeated what the vet in Quorn said some time ago, it’s just an age thing.
He also told me about a dog he once owned that had the same problem. This do was about the same age as Rusty is now and had the same problem. On one occasion when the dog was quite bad and making a bit of a mess about the place, he went off to work and left the back door open so that the dog could go outside when it wished. When he returned later in the day the dog was gone, never to be seen again. He believes it simply made it’s way out of the garden and found somewhere to curl up and die.
Now there’s a nice morbid story to start a day with!!.
This morning we plan on leaving a little later than usual, so as to allow some of the moorers at Trefor to leave us a space. Trefor has a boatyard and holiday boats, most of which should be out right now, at least judging by the amount of the we’ve passed lately. With a little luck they won’t be juggling boats about when we get there and we’ll have an easy passage into the moorings.
Thursday 19th May.
Now, before I tell you our plans for today, let me tell you about our fun-day yesterday.
The trip to Trefor Basin only took about an hour and a half and only consisted of one lift bridge and the Pontcysllte Aqueduct. Coming off the aqueduct the basin is directly ahead, with the route to Llangollen to the left. If you can imaging a shape like a catapult, the handle will represent the entrance, with the Anglo-Welsh boat hire company on the left. Straight ahead you will find the two arms of the catapult, the left arm having another boat company that does trips across the aqueduct for disabled folks. The right hand arm has just enough room for four boats to moor up and we were fortunate enough to be the fourth. The junction of the three arm is a winding-hole, or turning point.
Some time after arriving and taking pooch for a walk, we set out to find the local shop to buy a paper and, on our return, had another cuppa and read the paper. Sheila then decided to take a walk with her camera, leaving me, as usual, to fend for myself and the dog. So, out came the guitar and Rusty and me settled down for a sing-song – Paul Mc Cartney and Bob Dylan in this instance.
Now, the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct is 1007 feet long, five and a half feet deep and sits on 18 piers of 126 feet in height. By my calculations those piers are almost 60 feet apart, with the River Dee spanned by two of them. Therefore, within the space of 500 feet, the pathway down to the river represents a 1 in 4 hill, or 25% incline, which is what Sheila did in order to take her photographs. I am itching to see what they look like when downloaded to the laptop.
Later on we sat and watched a holiday boat turning in the winding hole. Newbies to boating find this operation somewhat daunting but, having carried it out on many occasions and it now holds no terrors for me. The lady on the boat had stayed on the towpath in order to help hubby turn the boat, with the occasional push to the bow. One push too many and she treated us all to an impromptu swimming gala. Having toppled into the canal, the only object that she could hold on to was the bow of the boat, which she did for dear life. The figurehead on a boat should face forward and look rather proud. This lady faced backward and looked anything but.
After addressing the problem with some deep thought – hubby needed to maintain control of the boat and, at the same time, rescue said lady – hubby grabbed the life ring and draped it over wifey’s shoulders. She then sort of doggy-paddled to the shore, where two pairs of willing hands – mine included - lifted her out of the water.
Most canals are no more than about 3 feet deep, which is why I asked this lady if she could stand up. “I don’t know”, came the reply and she plainly had no intention of finding out. This was just as well if the basin is as deep as the aqueduct because, at a mere 5 feet tall, she would have given us all an even bigger chuckle. Sadly I was more interested in helping the lady to think about grabbing the camera.
Later in the afternoon and just to say I had done so, we took a walk across the aqueduct. The walkway is just about wide enough for two people to pass, if one of them presses hard against the safety rail, with the one nearest the water being quite likely to take the plunge if they are not careful. The walk is well worth it because the views are quite spectacular.
On the way back to the boat I suggested we might drop in to the Telford Arm, which sits just across the bridge. This rounded the day off quite nicely although, having studied the menu and noted the prices, we decided against blowing over £16 on two meals, settling instead for a packet of crisps each and a bacon butty when we got back to Shiralee.
Tucked away in this tiny corner of Wales, I’m surprised to find I have all five bars up on the dongle, and so, with eight pages written, I will now post this blog.
Cheers me dears from Dave, Sheila and Rusty.
This morning I just about managed to connect to the Internet, but with only 2 of 5 bars up, which is a pretty weak signal.
I had a total of 23 emails to download and managed to collect about 15 of them, when that pesky error message came up telling me nothing more could be downloaded. But I tried again and this time got them all, including the one from Mr Oxley.
For some reason though, best known to the innards of this laptop, it wouldn’t open the picture. This is probably some security thingy going on to protect my computer, which is rather annoying because, if I didn’t want the blessed thing then I wouldn’t try to open it, now would I?
So, something else for me to get my head around.
At the start of our short trip yesterday we needed to stop off for water and get rid of some rubbish. Opposite the entrance to the Ellesmere arm is a BW Section set aside for just that purpose, but there were already three boats there and so, in the already strong wind we had to moor up opposite for a while. Then just as we were about to move in after a boat had pulled out, another boat pulled in. This situation, as you all know, happens all too often in car parks.
Eventually another boat moved on and we moved in to do the necessary and, would you believe it, the boater who had pulled in ahead of us, had the temerity to ask if we’d been waiting long. He thought we were simply moored there! Grrrrr!!!
Anyway, being already in a foul mood that morning and being stuck in this interminable high wind, I decided on just a short trip, which is why we are now miles from nowhere.
At the moment, 06.40, there is just a slight breeze and a clear sky, so we just might make it to our designated mooring spot for the pub. However, if my dicky tummy doesn’t settle down by then, that won’t happen either. Happy days!
Monday 16th May.
Yesterday we made our way to Whittington and The Narrow Boat pub, a pub we had not visited on our last run through the Llangollen. Although still windy, the trip proved quite easy and very scenic. It still amazes me just how much open countryside exists in this area, it really is one of the most relaxing cruises in the country.
We arrived here at about 09.30 and settled down with a cuppa before heeding Rusty’s groans about, ‘we’re here now, why haven’t I been taken out to investigate the place?’. She’s the same every time we move to a new spot, whine, whine, whine, until she gets her way. Typical woman!!
The Narrow Boat, a very well appointed watering hole that we intend eating at on our return. Our visit at Sunday lunchtime saw all tables set for lunch, so it really must be a very popular pub/restaurant, because there are very few houses anywhere near the pub and people have to drive to it. Also, many of the table had been reserved, which tells me that they attract a good crowd of regular eaters, at least on Sundays.
I did ask about midweek bookings and was told we should have no problem finding a table, either lunchtime or evening, so this is a must on our return visit. The prices look very reasonable too, with a Sunday roast at just £5.50, a real bargain. My pint of Guinness though, at £3.20, I thought a wee bit high but, for such a clean and bright establishment, is nothing to be too concerned about. One of the better canal side pubs we’ve visited.
Today we’re heading for Chirk and will moor up a little way before the tunnel and aqueduct, from which point we’ll walk into town for some odd and ends of shopping, and we’ll tackle the two obstacles on Tuesday. We’re expecting rain this morning, so we don’t expect a very pleasant trip but, since we don’t really want to stay here at Whittington, it must be done.
1500, same day.
Arrived Chirk Bank at 10.15 and put the kettle on. After a well earned cuppa and dog has been taken out, we decided to take a walk into Chirk for some shopping. Now, this quaint little town is, supposedly, only ½ a mile away. What my dear wife neglected to mention, although she was adamant she didn’t know, was that it was all uphill and not just an English hill, this is a really good stretch of the legs, Welsh hill. By the time we reached the top I had worked up a bit of a sweat and, once the shopping was done, we sat at the bus stop and enjoyed an ice cream each. We then trudged down that hill, which was a far easier proposition.
Day Boats are the bane of ordinary boaters, whether they be holiday makers or, like ourselves, live-aboards. For some inexplicable reason, probably because day boats are quite small, the hirers of these damned nuisance machines think the rules don’t apply to them. Now, it is virtually impossible to drive these things at more than about six MPH but, when one of those things come past at top speed, the bow wave has to be seen to be believed.
The one that raced past us at Chirk Bank; which we are almost certain came from the boatyard at Maestermyn, very nearly caused a serious incident with an oncoming holiday boat. Despite my yelling at the moron driving, to slow down, he, in his arrogance, increased throttle. Had it not been for the ability of the other boater heading towards him, the result could have been disastrous. Yes, even at six MPH. It really doesn’t take much of a knock to throw people into the canal, only to be struck by one or other of the boats involved.
Why, oh why, don’t the owners of these boats put a speed limiter on them? Four MPH is the maximum speed allowed on canals, so it should be a simple matter to limit them to just that. Better yet, subject would-be hirers to a dose of what it feels like to be rammed by one of these things.
Tomorrow, through Chirk Tunnel and over the aqueduct, or is that the other way about?
Wednesday 18th May and so far we have been very fortunate in our travels along this canal, very little rain whilst on the move. Yesterday we made an early start and were on the move by 07.45. Along the way we passed another boat and I passed comment to the man at the tiller, ‘Early Start?’, to which he replied, ‘We started out at 5 o/clock’. What!! Are they mad? Blimey, we like a reasonably early start, if only to limit the amount of mini-disasters we’re likely to encounter from holiday boaters. But, 5 o/clock, I’m only just getting out of bed then, and besides, I’d never get Wifey up before 07.00.
Anyway, we had Chirk Aqueduct to pass over and the tunnel at 459 yards, followed by the Whitehouse Tunnel at just 191 yards, so no real obstacles there. As I’ve mentioned before, with this canal being fed by the River Dee at Llangollen, there is something of a current against us. Ordinarily this is not a problem but, when it comes to bridges and tunnels, it becomes more pronounced. Going through bridges the water pressure against the boat increases somewhat; a bit like squeezing a hose pipe; but all that requires is a bit more throttle. Going through tunnels and over aqueducts means travelling crab-wise, it doesn’t seem to matter how much extra throttle is applied, it’s impossible to keep a straight course. Fortunately the rubbing strake along the side of the boat prevents any damage to paintwork.
We arrived at the other end of Whitehouse tunnel and pulled in to moor up at about 09.45. Rusty was feeling under the weather again, which is rather worrying, but there is little we can do for her because, apparently, this is a quite common problem in older dogs. She’s about 13 years old now, so I guess we’ll have to consider being a bit more choosy with her diet.
Whilst walking with her later in the day, I happened to meet up with the owner of the boat moored in front of us, who was walking with his two lurchers. I asked him if he perhaps knew what Rusty’s problem might be, and he virtually repeated what the vet in Quorn said some time ago, it’s just an age thing.
He also told me about a dog he once owned that had the same problem. This do was about the same age as Rusty is now and had the same problem. On one occasion when the dog was quite bad and making a bit of a mess about the place, he went off to work and left the back door open so that the dog could go outside when it wished. When he returned later in the day the dog was gone, never to be seen again. He believes it simply made it’s way out of the garden and found somewhere to curl up and die.
Now there’s a nice morbid story to start a day with!!.
This morning we plan on leaving a little later than usual, so as to allow some of the moorers at Trefor to leave us a space. Trefor has a boatyard and holiday boats, most of which should be out right now, at least judging by the amount of the we’ve passed lately. With a little luck they won’t be juggling boats about when we get there and we’ll have an easy passage into the moorings.
Thursday 19th May.
Now, before I tell you our plans for today, let me tell you about our fun-day yesterday.
The trip to Trefor Basin only took about an hour and a half and only consisted of one lift bridge and the Pontcysllte Aqueduct. Coming off the aqueduct the basin is directly ahead, with the route to Llangollen to the left. If you can imaging a shape like a catapult, the handle will represent the entrance, with the Anglo-Welsh boat hire company on the left. Straight ahead you will find the two arms of the catapult, the left arm having another boat company that does trips across the aqueduct for disabled folks. The right hand arm has just enough room for four boats to moor up and we were fortunate enough to be the fourth. The junction of the three arm is a winding-hole, or turning point.
Some time after arriving and taking pooch for a walk, we set out to find the local shop to buy a paper and, on our return, had another cuppa and read the paper. Sheila then decided to take a walk with her camera, leaving me, as usual, to fend for myself and the dog. So, out came the guitar and Rusty and me settled down for a sing-song – Paul Mc Cartney and Bob Dylan in this instance.
Now, the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct is 1007 feet long, five and a half feet deep and sits on 18 piers of 126 feet in height. By my calculations those piers are almost 60 feet apart, with the River Dee spanned by two of them. Therefore, within the space of 500 feet, the pathway down to the river represents a 1 in 4 hill, or 25% incline, which is what Sheila did in order to take her photographs. I am itching to see what they look like when downloaded to the laptop.
Later on we sat and watched a holiday boat turning in the winding hole. Newbies to boating find this operation somewhat daunting but, having carried it out on many occasions and it now holds no terrors for me. The lady on the boat had stayed on the towpath in order to help hubby turn the boat, with the occasional push to the bow. One push too many and she treated us all to an impromptu swimming gala. Having toppled into the canal, the only object that she could hold on to was the bow of the boat, which she did for dear life. The figurehead on a boat should face forward and look rather proud. This lady faced backward and looked anything but.
After addressing the problem with some deep thought – hubby needed to maintain control of the boat and, at the same time, rescue said lady – hubby grabbed the life ring and draped it over wifey’s shoulders. She then sort of doggy-paddled to the shore, where two pairs of willing hands – mine included - lifted her out of the water.
Most canals are no more than about 3 feet deep, which is why I asked this lady if she could stand up. “I don’t know”, came the reply and she plainly had no intention of finding out. This was just as well if the basin is as deep as the aqueduct because, at a mere 5 feet tall, she would have given us all an even bigger chuckle. Sadly I was more interested in helping the lady to think about grabbing the camera.
Later in the afternoon and just to say I had done so, we took a walk across the aqueduct. The walkway is just about wide enough for two people to pass, if one of them presses hard against the safety rail, with the one nearest the water being quite likely to take the plunge if they are not careful. The walk is well worth it because the views are quite spectacular.
On the way back to the boat I suggested we might drop in to the Telford Arm, which sits just across the bridge. This rounded the day off quite nicely although, having studied the menu and noted the prices, we decided against blowing over £16 on two meals, settling instead for a packet of crisps each and a bacon butty when we got back to Shiralee.
Tucked away in this tiny corner of Wales, I’m surprised to find I have all five bars up on the dongle, and so, with eight pages written, I will now post this blog.
Cheers me dears from Dave, Sheila and Rusty.
Friday, 13 May 2011
Shiralee Cruise 2011 #5
Wednesday 11th May (cont.)
Still on the subject of yesterday, we had even more fun later in the day, this time with the TV. Although this new set had given us no problems since we first picked it up at Swanley, just recently the signal strength had been getting weaker and weaker as we moved further towards wild and woolly Wales.
When we moored at Willymoor the signal kept breaking up, whilst at Grindley Brook we had nothing at all. So, after shopping and a well earned cup of coffee at Whitchurch we decided to have a go at setting it up again.
So, I set the aerial up, switched on, put the set to ‘Search’ and sat back and waited. Nothing! Not even on Analogue. This I thought, can only mean one thing, AERIAL!!!. Now, I know what you are thinking, ‘perhaps the old set was OK’, and you may be right. However, having borrowed Bob’s soldering iron, in an attempt to repair the tuner, I well and truly messed that operation up. At least, I think I did. But I’ll only know for sure if I remove it from under our bed and plug it in.
Anyway, with Wifey’s help, we took the aerial lead down, disconnected the two parts of the lead, got the AVO type meter out of the cupboard and checked for continuity. Not continuous in the section between the TV and the aerial lead.
Just to be sure I cut a length off both ends and checked again, still not continuous. The best thing here was to discard the recalcitrant lead and attach a new one, which is where we struck lucky because, inside the cupboard below the telly is the old amplifier, attached to which is a short length of co-ax cable, that still ran through the top and has been there since we ripped off the aerial that came with the boat.
After fitting that all up and tucking the cable into the its little tidies, Sheila took doggy out for a walk, leaving me to set the TV up which, I’m happy to say, solved the problem.
(Note to self. In future check the obvious and cheapest first, before lashing out more money).
Wednesday 1600
For the first time since leaving Mercia we haven’t been able to access the Internet. This is not surprising because we are unable to send or receive phone calls, except outside the boat. So far we can’t complain, but I do hope it doesn’t get progressively worse as we make our way along this canal.
Doggie has not been very well today. Aaaaahh! This is not an unusual occurrence in itself, but this is the second time in three days and we’re both becoming a little concerned. She’s been moping about for most of the day, very much like me when I have man-flu, you know, with that ‘I’m feeling sorry for myself and need some TLC’ kind of attitude? She’s been out walking more times than usual and has been eating lots of grass, which has caused her to throw up a bit. But she’s had absolutely nothing to eat at all today. Tomorrow we’re off to Ellesmere where we should be able to find a vet if necessary.
Thursday 12th May and, as expected, this neck of the woods has started with heavy cloud. In fact I do believe I heard rain during the night and, on top of that, we have about seven miles to go today, we’re heading for Ellesmere, where we’re hoping to pick up some coal at the boatyard.
Yesterday, as I’ve already mentioned, Rusty was feeling rather poorly. Ordinarily when she is like this, she’s over it by lunchtime and back to her usual, exuberant self. But this time, even by 1800, she was still moping about with her head hanging and her tail all floppy, whereas it would be erect and all waggy. She hadn’t eaten anything during the day; not even her usual snacks between meals; and that is really not like her at all.
So, we looked up the nearest vet in the First Mate Book and gave them a bell. Sadly, not only is the Internet non existent here, the mobile is pretty damn awful too. But we managed to get through and Sheila spoke to a Veterinary Nurse, who suggested we try to encourage Rusty to at least drink some water and, by warming up her usual food, see if she would go for that.
I have to say, our wee doggie is not easily persuaded. In order to get water into her we resorted to a squirty bottle, the sort walkers and such carry around with them. Whilst I held her mouth open, Sheila squirted, which worked a treat. Sheila then opened a pouch of food, warmed it up with hot water and stuck it under her nose. That obviously hit the spot, because she wolfed it down in short order and, after wandering around a bit, settled in her bed and slept until we retired for the night.
Finally, when Sheila prepared to take her out for her final walk of the day, she set up her normal barking row. We have no idea why she does this, after all she knows she’s going out. But she does it every time, much to my annoyance I have to say.
Anyway, all’s well that ends well and our pooch is all back to normal. Until the next time!!
From the top of Grindley Brook Locks there are no more to go through for about 19 miles, just a few lift bridges, so it shouldn’t take long for us to get to Ellesmere, which is where we’ll probably moor up until Saturday morning. Ellesmere now has a new Tesco, well who hasn’t? And, you’ll not be surprised to hear, that it has now started raining. Oh joy of yoys!
Saturday 14th May.
I’m not sure what we’re doing today and I have no way of letting you all know, because I would have to walk back to the bridge over the Ellesmere Arm of the canal just to get a signal on the mobile. So, we’ll wait until later and see what we decide.
The choices for today are either to stay here another day; and these are 72 hour moorings, rather than the usual 48; do a bit more shopping then continue up the Llangollen, or ditto but head for the Montgomery Branch and await the arrival of the lock keeper.
The navigable length of the Montgomery is only seven miles long, at the end of which is a very nice pub/restaurant. The locks are only operated between 12 noon and 2 pm and only a certain amount of boats are allowed through on any given day. This has something to do with reducing the amount of damage done to wildlife and the canal, or some such thing. If a boat arrives later than the appointed time of 2 pm, no amount of wheedling and cajoling will get them through and they will have to wait until the following day.
Yesterday we left our moorings at 07.30 and arrived at the marina near here about two hours later. Surprisingly for this time of year the visitor moorings outside the marina were full, but we did just manage to squeeze in before the bridge. We only needed coal here otherwise we would have carried on to our present moorings.
We were told by another boater that the Ellesmere Arm was also pretty full and expressed his surprise at the fact. Ordinarily you would expect a build up of boats around June and July, but for May to be busy is pretty much unheard of. However, once we’d bought the coal, Sheila took a walk to see if there were any space, by which time several boats had moved on and we moved in without problems.
As with the last time we were here, about two years ago, we managed to moor up opposite the cricket field and, whilst sitting here with our first cuppa, we watched the groundsman preparing the pitch so, hopefully, we’ll see some action, but that depends upon whether we stay or not.
Fortunately we have as much time as we need, even if the match is played on Sunday rather than today. Last time I do believe it was a school match so, if the weather is kind to them, it could be a good weekend.
For some reason mobile connection is impossible here on the boat but, as I have already mentioned, if I walk to the bridge I can send and receive calls. I therefore prepared my message yesterday before walking back and I said do not reply, because it had started raining.
I’m having a few problems with the Internet of late, and they are all to do with my pal Alan in Germany. For some odd and inexplicable reason, when he receives emails from me they appear to contain an additional file, but that file doesn’t have anything in it. Unless I am forwarding a joke from Sandra, which would go as is, I wouldn’t be attaching anything to my messages, so we are both at a loss as to what is going on here.
A few days ago Alan sent me a link to something that he was sure I would enjoy. Something to do with some Scandinavian squaddies carrying out some rifle drill that he considered to be quite exceptional. However, when I followed the link, all I got was an advert for BMW. Yesterday he re-sent the link and this time I was faced with some advert for a musician of some kind. Once again we have no idea what is going on, but he’s adamant that he’s sent the correct link.
There’s nowt as mysterious as the Internet!!
Yesterday, whilst reading an email from one of my contacts in the good old US of A, I was given a link to a Shareware programme called PhotoS. This programme is supposed to convert photographs to line drawings, which I though might be useful and, if it was of any use to me, I would invest the necessary $25. After careful consideration I have decided against such an outlay. This is because I already have a couple of far better programmes to do that job for me.
The Serif selection of programmes that Ian gave me I already know can work wonders in this respect. But I also have a another one called GMX, which I bought a couple of years ago, and this can do a pretty good job also. So I look upon this Shareware as an unnecessary addition to my list.
And that is that for today.
Now, yesterday I managed to get online without any problems and so, if the connection is as good this morning, I do believe I’ll post this latest blog.
Have a good weekend you lovely people.
Dave, Sheila and Rusty.
Still on the subject of yesterday, we had even more fun later in the day, this time with the TV. Although this new set had given us no problems since we first picked it up at Swanley, just recently the signal strength had been getting weaker and weaker as we moved further towards wild and woolly Wales.
When we moored at Willymoor the signal kept breaking up, whilst at Grindley Brook we had nothing at all. So, after shopping and a well earned cup of coffee at Whitchurch we decided to have a go at setting it up again.
So, I set the aerial up, switched on, put the set to ‘Search’ and sat back and waited. Nothing! Not even on Analogue. This I thought, can only mean one thing, AERIAL!!!. Now, I know what you are thinking, ‘perhaps the old set was OK’, and you may be right. However, having borrowed Bob’s soldering iron, in an attempt to repair the tuner, I well and truly messed that operation up. At least, I think I did. But I’ll only know for sure if I remove it from under our bed and plug it in.
Anyway, with Wifey’s help, we took the aerial lead down, disconnected the two parts of the lead, got the AVO type meter out of the cupboard and checked for continuity. Not continuous in the section between the TV and the aerial lead.
Just to be sure I cut a length off both ends and checked again, still not continuous. The best thing here was to discard the recalcitrant lead and attach a new one, which is where we struck lucky because, inside the cupboard below the telly is the old amplifier, attached to which is a short length of co-ax cable, that still ran through the top and has been there since we ripped off the aerial that came with the boat.
After fitting that all up and tucking the cable into the its little tidies, Sheila took doggy out for a walk, leaving me to set the TV up which, I’m happy to say, solved the problem.
(Note to self. In future check the obvious and cheapest first, before lashing out more money).
Wednesday 1600
For the first time since leaving Mercia we haven’t been able to access the Internet. This is not surprising because we are unable to send or receive phone calls, except outside the boat. So far we can’t complain, but I do hope it doesn’t get progressively worse as we make our way along this canal.
Doggie has not been very well today. Aaaaahh! This is not an unusual occurrence in itself, but this is the second time in three days and we’re both becoming a little concerned. She’s been moping about for most of the day, very much like me when I have man-flu, you know, with that ‘I’m feeling sorry for myself and need some TLC’ kind of attitude? She’s been out walking more times than usual and has been eating lots of grass, which has caused her to throw up a bit. But she’s had absolutely nothing to eat at all today. Tomorrow we’re off to Ellesmere where we should be able to find a vet if necessary.
Thursday 12th May and, as expected, this neck of the woods has started with heavy cloud. In fact I do believe I heard rain during the night and, on top of that, we have about seven miles to go today, we’re heading for Ellesmere, where we’re hoping to pick up some coal at the boatyard.
Yesterday, as I’ve already mentioned, Rusty was feeling rather poorly. Ordinarily when she is like this, she’s over it by lunchtime and back to her usual, exuberant self. But this time, even by 1800, she was still moping about with her head hanging and her tail all floppy, whereas it would be erect and all waggy. She hadn’t eaten anything during the day; not even her usual snacks between meals; and that is really not like her at all.
So, we looked up the nearest vet in the First Mate Book and gave them a bell. Sadly, not only is the Internet non existent here, the mobile is pretty damn awful too. But we managed to get through and Sheila spoke to a Veterinary Nurse, who suggested we try to encourage Rusty to at least drink some water and, by warming up her usual food, see if she would go for that.
I have to say, our wee doggie is not easily persuaded. In order to get water into her we resorted to a squirty bottle, the sort walkers and such carry around with them. Whilst I held her mouth open, Sheila squirted, which worked a treat. Sheila then opened a pouch of food, warmed it up with hot water and stuck it under her nose. That obviously hit the spot, because she wolfed it down in short order and, after wandering around a bit, settled in her bed and slept until we retired for the night.
Finally, when Sheila prepared to take her out for her final walk of the day, she set up her normal barking row. We have no idea why she does this, after all she knows she’s going out. But she does it every time, much to my annoyance I have to say.
Anyway, all’s well that ends well and our pooch is all back to normal. Until the next time!!
From the top of Grindley Brook Locks there are no more to go through for about 19 miles, just a few lift bridges, so it shouldn’t take long for us to get to Ellesmere, which is where we’ll probably moor up until Saturday morning. Ellesmere now has a new Tesco, well who hasn’t? And, you’ll not be surprised to hear, that it has now started raining. Oh joy of yoys!
Saturday 14th May.
I’m not sure what we’re doing today and I have no way of letting you all know, because I would have to walk back to the bridge over the Ellesmere Arm of the canal just to get a signal on the mobile. So, we’ll wait until later and see what we decide.
The choices for today are either to stay here another day; and these are 72 hour moorings, rather than the usual 48; do a bit more shopping then continue up the Llangollen, or ditto but head for the Montgomery Branch and await the arrival of the lock keeper.
The navigable length of the Montgomery is only seven miles long, at the end of which is a very nice pub/restaurant. The locks are only operated between 12 noon and 2 pm and only a certain amount of boats are allowed through on any given day. This has something to do with reducing the amount of damage done to wildlife and the canal, or some such thing. If a boat arrives later than the appointed time of 2 pm, no amount of wheedling and cajoling will get them through and they will have to wait until the following day.
Yesterday we left our moorings at 07.30 and arrived at the marina near here about two hours later. Surprisingly for this time of year the visitor moorings outside the marina were full, but we did just manage to squeeze in before the bridge. We only needed coal here otherwise we would have carried on to our present moorings.
We were told by another boater that the Ellesmere Arm was also pretty full and expressed his surprise at the fact. Ordinarily you would expect a build up of boats around June and July, but for May to be busy is pretty much unheard of. However, once we’d bought the coal, Sheila took a walk to see if there were any space, by which time several boats had moved on and we moved in without problems.
As with the last time we were here, about two years ago, we managed to moor up opposite the cricket field and, whilst sitting here with our first cuppa, we watched the groundsman preparing the pitch so, hopefully, we’ll see some action, but that depends upon whether we stay or not.
Fortunately we have as much time as we need, even if the match is played on Sunday rather than today. Last time I do believe it was a school match so, if the weather is kind to them, it could be a good weekend.
For some reason mobile connection is impossible here on the boat but, as I have already mentioned, if I walk to the bridge I can send and receive calls. I therefore prepared my message yesterday before walking back and I said do not reply, because it had started raining.
I’m having a few problems with the Internet of late, and they are all to do with my pal Alan in Germany. For some odd and inexplicable reason, when he receives emails from me they appear to contain an additional file, but that file doesn’t have anything in it. Unless I am forwarding a joke from Sandra, which would go as is, I wouldn’t be attaching anything to my messages, so we are both at a loss as to what is going on here.
A few days ago Alan sent me a link to something that he was sure I would enjoy. Something to do with some Scandinavian squaddies carrying out some rifle drill that he considered to be quite exceptional. However, when I followed the link, all I got was an advert for BMW. Yesterday he re-sent the link and this time I was faced with some advert for a musician of some kind. Once again we have no idea what is going on, but he’s adamant that he’s sent the correct link.
There’s nowt as mysterious as the Internet!!
Yesterday, whilst reading an email from one of my contacts in the good old US of A, I was given a link to a Shareware programme called PhotoS. This programme is supposed to convert photographs to line drawings, which I though might be useful and, if it was of any use to me, I would invest the necessary $25. After careful consideration I have decided against such an outlay. This is because I already have a couple of far better programmes to do that job for me.
The Serif selection of programmes that Ian gave me I already know can work wonders in this respect. But I also have a another one called GMX, which I bought a couple of years ago, and this can do a pretty good job also. So I look upon this Shareware as an unnecessary addition to my list.
And that is that for today.
Now, yesterday I managed to get online without any problems and so, if the connection is as good this morning, I do believe I’ll post this latest blog.
Have a good weekend you lovely people.
Dave, Sheila and Rusty.
Tuesday, 10 May 2011
Shiralee Cruise 2011 #4
Thursday 5th May and, just because we are leaving Swanley Bridge Marina, the weather has taken a turn for the worst; it is heavily overcast with a wind building up and looks like rain. So, by the time we leave here we will probably be faced with a howling gale. Unfortunately we have to get to Wrenbury because I need to top up my medication and that is where we will find the nearest doctor.
Friday 6th May and after last nights rain, in which we were caught walking back from the village, it is still raining at 05.30 today. To us this is a very welcoming sight because, after all the recent dry weather, the Llangollen really needs it. The bottom end of the canal is fine but, as you approach the other end it can become rather shallow. When we cruised this canal a couple of years ago we found one or two shallow spots where we could feel the bottom scraping against rocks and shingle. So, come on the rain, well, only until we leave tomorrow morning, at which time it had better stop. Pronto!!
Yesterday morning we walked into Wrenbury in order to pay a visit to the local Medical Centre and top up my meds. For me such a walk is a fair stretch of the legs, but not a big problem now. However, having asked to see the doctor, I was told I would have to come back at 4 pm.
In the meantime my dear Wifey found a shorter route whilst walking our pooch. This route contained about four stiles, but I couldn’t see that as a problem either, until I met them, that is. I don’t think the landowner, through which the public footpath passes, is too enamoured with people wishing to pass through because, not only are these stiles placed in tight corners, they are also rather high and for me, pretty difficult to climb. However, being rough, tough, live-aboard boaters, we soldiered on and made it to the centre. Needless to say, after all that exertion, we returned via the village shop cum post office and treated ourselves to the second ice cream of the day.
After all that and having the very nice Dr. Roe prescribe the necessary, we found that there were not enough injection needles, which means a return visit today. No worries though, we can probably enjoy another ice cream! As for the rest of the day, with this rain I don’t suppose we’ll do much at all.
Saturday 7th May and, at last we’ve had some proper rain. It started last nigh, just before Sheila took Rusty out before bed, and it has continued for most of the night. Whether or not it’s enough to ensure a smooth ride to the end of the canal is a different gether altomatter.
Today, having used up our allotted 48 hours mooring allowance, we’ll be moving on. Hanged if I know exactly where to though, although Wifey did tell me yesterday, but you know my memory! I do know we’re stopping near some lock or other for the weekend because, as usual, it has a pub nearby. Anyway, you’ll know where it is because you’ will have received my text before you get this blog.
20.30 on Saturday evening.
As you all know, we have just purchased a new TV. We are currently moored at Willymoor Lock and to say that the TV reception is poor would be a gross understatement, it is absolutely non-existent.
So, having had my fill of reading for the day and being in possession of a number of DVDs that we have yet to watch, we thought we’d try one on for size.
Having first found it impossible to slide a DVD into the relevant slot, we decided to consult the manual, which of course is on a DVD. So, out comes the Laptop and in goes the DVD.
Having found the associated manual for our model of TV, a manual that runs to 65 pages, we then discovered that the operation of the DVD Player, which is an integral part of the TV, the pages dealing with the set up of same, come well after all the set up pages for remote units. You know it makes sense!!
Eventually, after scrolling down for about 30 of those pages – I wasn’t actually counting – we finally fount the DVD set up pages. Finally, having followed the set up procedure to the letter, we inserted a DVD and settled down to watch it.
And………………..nothing happened!! The DVD ran for a few seconds and stopped. We tried the Play button and achieved nothing. We tried a second DVD………..and achieved nothing. We tried a third DVD and, having once again achieved nothing, we took the hint and recognised, albeit belatedly, that we would not be watching a video tonight.
Bearing in mind the fact that arranging collection of said item was a wee bit difficult and also bearing in mind the fact that we disposed of the packaging after testing that the thing actually worked, we are now wondering what arrangements we will need to make for its return and, of course, the collection of a replacement.
As our kin across the pond would say, Go Figure!!
We have of course sent a message to the seller through eBay. The company we bought the item from do have a huge and high percentage of good feedback, so I am not too worried about getting satisfaction, and they do seem to have a good returns policy.
Strange to say, I have just received a message in my Inbox at eBay, and from eBay, asking me to answer some questions about my recent purchase. Hmmmm!
Sunday 8th May.
You’ve heard the expression ‘much ado about nothing’, Shakespeare and all that? Well, after a good nights rest and repose and at my good lady wife’s instigation, we decided to go through the DVD setup procedure again this morning. Fortunately I was most polite when I emailed the seller yesterday evening, despite my anger that such a thing could happen to me.
Anyway, we followed the instructions in the manual again, only this time, when we came to the section about ‘factory reset’, we did just that and lo and behold, the wretched thing now works perfectly. Naturally I contacted the seller again with profuse apologies. We are now set to watch a DVD this evening because television reception up here in La La Land, is pretty useless. Everything about the Llangollen is very special, with lots of great scenery and peace and quiet. Lovely.
Monday 9th May and, with the wind still howling, I don’t suppose we’ll venture very far today, probably just as far as Grindley Brook Locks, wher we’ll catch a bus to Whitchurch for shopping. Hopefully Tuesday will be calmer and we can go on to Whitchurch itself, where we can moor up for at least one night and go into town again to have a proper look around.
Tuesday 10th May has dawned bright, sunny and calm. Sitting here yesterday afternoon and evening, we both thought the rain would never stop. Mind you, at 06.20 the sky is becoming overcast and the forecasters have told us to expect showers in this neck of the woods. Hopefully we will at least get through the next six locks without a soaking.
We’re off to Whitchurch this morning, mainly for shopping, but I’m also hoping to find a lead for the 12 volt side of the TV. Talking about which, no reception at all last night and taking our lead from the houses by the locks, we should have a clear line to any transmitters, but we could raise nothing at all. At Willymoor we did at least receive the ITV channels, but nothing at all here.
Once again I checked the aerial lead, but that seems OK, I’m now wondering just how sensitive the tuner is in this new box and if, as I suspect, the aerial needs to be very precise in the direction in which it is pointing.
There is a small canalside shop that we have stopped at before, which is a short distance further on to Whitchurch, where we actually watched some of Wimbledon last time we were on this canal, so we can check it out from there. If we don’t find the channels there I shall start having some serious misgivings.
Wednesday 11th May.
The two mile trip to Whitchurch was almost without incident yesterday morning. We only had six locks to go through at Grindley Brook, so the trip should have gone smoothly, but……………….
The first three locks are spaced apart and are not a problem, whereas the second three are linked in a staircase and, from previous experience, I know that if the water level between them is not high enough, there is a possibility of grounding between locks.
So, fully expecting a small problem, as I drove the boat from No1 to 2, she seemed to be a bit slow, but we got through OK. Similarly between No’s two and three. But, when I attempted to exit No three, the same thing happened and that simply can’t be the case at the top of the flight. Obviously we had some rubbish wrapped around the prop slowing us down.
Well, we had to stop anyway to top up with water and dispose of our rubbish, so I pulled in at the nearest water-point.
Prior to having my knees done I would simply have lifted the small panel that covers the hatch, knelt down and did the business. But, I am not allowed to kneel on these new knees, instead I have to remove both sections of the engine bay cover and climb down inside, which is what I did.
Fate is strange, is it not? Had I not been obliged to climb into the engine bay, I would not have known that the oil filler cover had fallen off. Nor would I have seen the pool of oil in the well and the covering of the stuff over the top of the engine. Fortunately we had only lost a very small amount of oil, which is something I am going to have to deal with today, a mopping up operation is in hand.
After all that fun we finally arrived at Whitchurch at about 09.45 and settled in for the day. But first we had to go shopping, which meant a bus ride into town. This is something we had planned from Grindley Brook but, as our wee pooch seemed a bit under the weather, we decided to wait another day.
Strange to say, I gave no more thought to the oil spill, after all it’s not going to go anywhere. Today will be fine for that job.
About four miles or so from here is a canal-side shop, with moorings for a few boats alongside and it is something we have taken advantage of in the past. And in any case, we can’t pass it by because they do ice creams and, if it’s a bright day, which it doesn’t look like being at the moment, we can sit outside on our canvas chairs and enjoy a quiet moment. Lovely!
And that, as they say, is that, let’s get this one posted.
All abreast
Dave and the cast of HMS Shiralee.
Friday 6th May and after last nights rain, in which we were caught walking back from the village, it is still raining at 05.30 today. To us this is a very welcoming sight because, after all the recent dry weather, the Llangollen really needs it. The bottom end of the canal is fine but, as you approach the other end it can become rather shallow. When we cruised this canal a couple of years ago we found one or two shallow spots where we could feel the bottom scraping against rocks and shingle. So, come on the rain, well, only until we leave tomorrow morning, at which time it had better stop. Pronto!!
Yesterday morning we walked into Wrenbury in order to pay a visit to the local Medical Centre and top up my meds. For me such a walk is a fair stretch of the legs, but not a big problem now. However, having asked to see the doctor, I was told I would have to come back at 4 pm.
In the meantime my dear Wifey found a shorter route whilst walking our pooch. This route contained about four stiles, but I couldn’t see that as a problem either, until I met them, that is. I don’t think the landowner, through which the public footpath passes, is too enamoured with people wishing to pass through because, not only are these stiles placed in tight corners, they are also rather high and for me, pretty difficult to climb. However, being rough, tough, live-aboard boaters, we soldiered on and made it to the centre. Needless to say, after all that exertion, we returned via the village shop cum post office and treated ourselves to the second ice cream of the day.
After all that and having the very nice Dr. Roe prescribe the necessary, we found that there were not enough injection needles, which means a return visit today. No worries though, we can probably enjoy another ice cream! As for the rest of the day, with this rain I don’t suppose we’ll do much at all.
Saturday 7th May and, at last we’ve had some proper rain. It started last nigh, just before Sheila took Rusty out before bed, and it has continued for most of the night. Whether or not it’s enough to ensure a smooth ride to the end of the canal is a different gether altomatter.
Today, having used up our allotted 48 hours mooring allowance, we’ll be moving on. Hanged if I know exactly where to though, although Wifey did tell me yesterday, but you know my memory! I do know we’re stopping near some lock or other for the weekend because, as usual, it has a pub nearby. Anyway, you’ll know where it is because you’ will have received my text before you get this blog.
20.30 on Saturday evening.
As you all know, we have just purchased a new TV. We are currently moored at Willymoor Lock and to say that the TV reception is poor would be a gross understatement, it is absolutely non-existent.
So, having had my fill of reading for the day and being in possession of a number of DVDs that we have yet to watch, we thought we’d try one on for size.
Having first found it impossible to slide a DVD into the relevant slot, we decided to consult the manual, which of course is on a DVD. So, out comes the Laptop and in goes the DVD.
Having found the associated manual for our model of TV, a manual that runs to 65 pages, we then discovered that the operation of the DVD Player, which is an integral part of the TV, the pages dealing with the set up of same, come well after all the set up pages for remote units. You know it makes sense!!
Eventually, after scrolling down for about 30 of those pages – I wasn’t actually counting – we finally fount the DVD set up pages. Finally, having followed the set up procedure to the letter, we inserted a DVD and settled down to watch it.
And………………..nothing happened!! The DVD ran for a few seconds and stopped. We tried the Play button and achieved nothing. We tried a second DVD………..and achieved nothing. We tried a third DVD and, having once again achieved nothing, we took the hint and recognised, albeit belatedly, that we would not be watching a video tonight.
Bearing in mind the fact that arranging collection of said item was a wee bit difficult and also bearing in mind the fact that we disposed of the packaging after testing that the thing actually worked, we are now wondering what arrangements we will need to make for its return and, of course, the collection of a replacement.
As our kin across the pond would say, Go Figure!!
We have of course sent a message to the seller through eBay. The company we bought the item from do have a huge and high percentage of good feedback, so I am not too worried about getting satisfaction, and they do seem to have a good returns policy.
Strange to say, I have just received a message in my Inbox at eBay, and from eBay, asking me to answer some questions about my recent purchase. Hmmmm!
Sunday 8th May.
You’ve heard the expression ‘much ado about nothing’, Shakespeare and all that? Well, after a good nights rest and repose and at my good lady wife’s instigation, we decided to go through the DVD setup procedure again this morning. Fortunately I was most polite when I emailed the seller yesterday evening, despite my anger that such a thing could happen to me.
Anyway, we followed the instructions in the manual again, only this time, when we came to the section about ‘factory reset’, we did just that and lo and behold, the wretched thing now works perfectly. Naturally I contacted the seller again with profuse apologies. We are now set to watch a DVD this evening because television reception up here in La La Land, is pretty useless. Everything about the Llangollen is very special, with lots of great scenery and peace and quiet. Lovely.
Monday 9th May and, with the wind still howling, I don’t suppose we’ll venture very far today, probably just as far as Grindley Brook Locks, wher we’ll catch a bus to Whitchurch for shopping. Hopefully Tuesday will be calmer and we can go on to Whitchurch itself, where we can moor up for at least one night and go into town again to have a proper look around.
Tuesday 10th May has dawned bright, sunny and calm. Sitting here yesterday afternoon and evening, we both thought the rain would never stop. Mind you, at 06.20 the sky is becoming overcast and the forecasters have told us to expect showers in this neck of the woods. Hopefully we will at least get through the next six locks without a soaking.
We’re off to Whitchurch this morning, mainly for shopping, but I’m also hoping to find a lead for the 12 volt side of the TV. Talking about which, no reception at all last night and taking our lead from the houses by the locks, we should have a clear line to any transmitters, but we could raise nothing at all. At Willymoor we did at least receive the ITV channels, but nothing at all here.
Once again I checked the aerial lead, but that seems OK, I’m now wondering just how sensitive the tuner is in this new box and if, as I suspect, the aerial needs to be very precise in the direction in which it is pointing.
There is a small canalside shop that we have stopped at before, which is a short distance further on to Whitchurch, where we actually watched some of Wimbledon last time we were on this canal, so we can check it out from there. If we don’t find the channels there I shall start having some serious misgivings.
Wednesday 11th May.
The two mile trip to Whitchurch was almost without incident yesterday morning. We only had six locks to go through at Grindley Brook, so the trip should have gone smoothly, but……………….
The first three locks are spaced apart and are not a problem, whereas the second three are linked in a staircase and, from previous experience, I know that if the water level between them is not high enough, there is a possibility of grounding between locks.
So, fully expecting a small problem, as I drove the boat from No1 to 2, she seemed to be a bit slow, but we got through OK. Similarly between No’s two and three. But, when I attempted to exit No three, the same thing happened and that simply can’t be the case at the top of the flight. Obviously we had some rubbish wrapped around the prop slowing us down.
Well, we had to stop anyway to top up with water and dispose of our rubbish, so I pulled in at the nearest water-point.
Prior to having my knees done I would simply have lifted the small panel that covers the hatch, knelt down and did the business. But, I am not allowed to kneel on these new knees, instead I have to remove both sections of the engine bay cover and climb down inside, which is what I did.
Fate is strange, is it not? Had I not been obliged to climb into the engine bay, I would not have known that the oil filler cover had fallen off. Nor would I have seen the pool of oil in the well and the covering of the stuff over the top of the engine. Fortunately we had only lost a very small amount of oil, which is something I am going to have to deal with today, a mopping up operation is in hand.
After all that fun we finally arrived at Whitchurch at about 09.45 and settled in for the day. But first we had to go shopping, which meant a bus ride into town. This is something we had planned from Grindley Brook but, as our wee pooch seemed a bit under the weather, we decided to wait another day.
Strange to say, I gave no more thought to the oil spill, after all it’s not going to go anywhere. Today will be fine for that job.
About four miles or so from here is a canal-side shop, with moorings for a few boats alongside and it is something we have taken advantage of in the past. And in any case, we can’t pass it by because they do ice creams and, if it’s a bright day, which it doesn’t look like being at the moment, we can sit outside on our canvas chairs and enjoy a quiet moment. Lovely!
And that, as they say, is that, let’s get this one posted.
All abreast
Dave and the cast of HMS Shiralee.
Monday, 2 May 2011
Shiralee Cruise 2011 #3
Easter Monday, 25th April and we are still at Rode Heath. We can think of no good reason to leave whilst we still have such beautiful weather. Indeed, while it is still dry I can rub down some of the rust spots on the boat.
Yesterday I applied another coat of cream paint to the ends of our pole and will try painting other parts today. A couple of lengths of Green and Maroon should make it look rather pretty. Not surprisingly, after almost two years where nothing has been done by way of repairs, there are quite a few scratches and nicks in the paintwork, so it’s about time we gave them some attention.
Tuesday 26th April and at last this Bank Holiday weekend is over but, aren’t we lucky, we have another one next weekend and I predict that the streets and pubs will be pretty quiet, unless of course the pubs are showing the wedding-of-the-year??
Our television is, as you all know, up the Swanee. Also, I have been trying to find a suitable tuner with which to repair it. However, having searched eBay for similar TV’s, we have come across several for less that £100 and they have DVD players included and Free 24 hour delivery. So, forget the tuner, a new TV will soon be winging its way to us, assuming we can persuade a local Post Office to take delivery.
Actually, in purchasing a TV with built in DVD player, we can then sell on the DVD player/recorder with inbuilt HDD and reduce the total cost, not to mention save some space.
Today we’re off to Hassall Green., which is just two miles and, depending upon where we moor up, about five locks away. It also looks like we’ll be doing the trip is calm and dry weather. If we can arrange delivery of a TV to Hassall Green Post Office, we’ll stay a couple of days. Hey, we’re in no hurry!!
Actually, between this side of Harecastle Tunnel and the Middlewich Branch, there are 31 locks, which is why this stretch of the T&M is called “Heartbreak Hill”, but known to old boatmen as Cheshire Locks. Hassall Green boasts a Post Office and stores along with ‘limited’ boatyard services The stores incorporates a canal shop, which I suppose means canal memorabilia and such.
Wednesday 27th April and we’re hoping to get to Wheelock this morning, which is eight locks and about two miles away. We are getting rather low on water, most likely because we stayed in one place too long, Rode Heath.
I can’t say we’re impressed with Hassall Green, very limited moorings and the local, the Romping Donkey, is closed and up for sale. There is a very good little canal shop selling sweeties and a small range of general goodies, and a Brasserie next door, with plenty of seating outside. But, if the local traders can’t be bothered to ensure adequate moorings; and they are right beside the M6 Motorway; how can they expect to do business with boaters? Hmm! Perhaps they don’t!!
Anyway we ended up a couple of bridges away and it wasn’t until we visited the canal shop that we discovered the pub was closed. According to the nice lady running the shop the pub was forever changing hands. It obviously needs somebody who knows what needs to be done to make a success of it.
My good friend Alan Oxley, he of my RAF days who now resides in Germany, let me in on some scandalous news yesterday, or was it the day before? Sadly he, or rather his missus, has sworn me to secrecy, so I can’t pass it on. What a shame as it really was quite a juicy piece of gossip. I wonder if they would notice if I whispered it!
The weather has now turned pretty horrid and it’s cold and overcast this morning. However it is calm and peaceful and, with Wheelock being only a couple of miles away, we should reach it before the heavens open up and we must get there today. There never seems to be enough water points along the canals.
I mentioned our need for a new TV, well I think I have found just the thing. It has all the bells and whistles, including record and playback from external media, DVD player and. very important, three years guarantee. All I have to do is persuade them to deliver to a Post Office somewhere along our route.
Friday 29th April and it is another beautiful day. We had a small smattering of rain last night, but all is well now.
I spoke to the people at Swanley Marina on Wednesday and they agreed to accept the TV for us, so we have booked in to stay for a couple of days. The TV has now been despatched and should be there by the time we arrive on Tuesday.
The marina is only about two miles from Nantwich so, assuming there is a bus service, we’ll take a ride in, something we’ve done on a couple of occasions before.
Today we’ll move along a few miles and then, on Saturday, we’ll go to Barbridge for the weekend and on to the marina at Swanley on Tuesday.
We have overnighted at a beauty spot we have stopped at in the past and our journey, although rather long, what with the stopover at Middlewich for some much needed shopping, was very pleasant in blazing sunshine. Goodness knows when this fine weather will end, but you can bet your life it won’t be pleasant when it does.
Saturday 30th April and yet another sunny start to the day. The wind has also dropped, which is something of a blessing. All we have planned for today is to get down to Barbridge, which involves just two locks with a stop off at a boatyard for diesel.
Last night, or should I say early this morning, our wee doggy came and sat at the foot of the bed at 03.30. This is a recognisable sign that she wishes to go outside. In the best traditions of good Wifferey, Sheila volunteered to take Rusty out and who am I to object. One volunteer, etc, etc.
From Barbridge we plan on taking a bus ride into Nantwitch for a few bits and bobs. On Sunday we’ll move along a bit to just opposite the pub and have a few beers and we’ll probably stay until Tuesday morning, when we’ll make our way to Swanley Marina where, we hope, our nice new TV will be waiting for us. Not that we’ve really missed it all that much but, when the lousy weather does turn up, and you may be assured that it will, it will be nice to have something to do other than reading.
A light, following breeze has now sprung up and, just so long as it stays light, we won’t complain.
I’ve just been delving into the Serif programmes that Ian gave me. Hmmm! Seems to be a bit of a steep learning curve. Must set aside some time to read through the destructions!!
It is now almost 3.30 on Saturday afternoon and I have just received an email from Swanley Marina, our new TV has arrived. Hallelujah Brother!! The shame of it is, that we probably won’t get there until Tuesday, so I will miss another programme I would like to see. It’s all about a bunch of Canadians replicating the Bouncing Bomb as used by The Dambusters in WWII. No problem though, it will probably be repeated sometime soon.
This morning after our cuppa after arriving here, we caught the bus into Nantwich and simply wandered around for an hour. It really is a great town for shops and markets, especially on a Saturday, but we do find the produce on the market stalls to be very expensive. Perhaps we have been spoiled by the supermarkets, but a multi-seed brown loaf at £2.60? Jeez, someone is making a decent profit here.
Thus far in our exhausting travels, the Internet has been very kind to us, because we have almost always had all five bars up on our signal strength indicator. If, when we are on the other side of the Shropshire Union; which will probably be another month or so away; we still get such good reception, I will have no worries regarding emails and such. This will be a first since we bought Shiralee.
On our trip down from our moorings of yesterday, we met a tame female Mallard. She repeatedly landed on the bost, walked around a bit, stood very close to Sheila and posed for her photograph on numerous occasions. Only on one other occasion have we come across such behaviour and that was at Crick back in 2007, when I had one feeding out of my hand.
I am pleased to announce that, this morning, Monday 2nd May, at 08.20, n.b Shiralee gained access to the Llangollen Canal through Hurlestaon Locks and promptly moored up for water at the top of the locks.
From there onwards it gradually became more and more windy until, what with the current being against us, we decided to stop at Burland, which is a very small village boasting a new shop. Initially we thought we might continue to the marina, but playing with 15 tonnes of canal boat in a high wind, is not conducive to a good temper. So, we’ll stay here until the morning, when there should be less of a wind.
Now, you may be questioning my remarks about a ‘current’, but the Llangollen Canal is unlike any other in the UK, as far as we know. This canal is fed directly from the River Dee at Llantysilio, which is considerably further north at Horseshoe Falls, about a mile from Llangollen.
Sadly, having decided to stay here for the rest of today and tonight, Wifey has discovered that the marina is just around the corner from the bridge ahead of us. Still, I’d rather stay here than have to faff about with Shiralee in a high wind as she can be somewhat temperamental in such conditions
Here at Burland the shop has only recently opened and must be quite a boon for the boaters at the marina. Indeed, I suspect that the man running it, who is himself a live aboard boater at Swanley Bridge marina, must have spotted a golden opportunity. Not just for the marina inhabitants, but for those in the village. Good for him I say!
Tuesday 3rd May and still the sunshine persists.
This morning we leave at about 08.30 or so to get to the marina and we will stay for a couple of days. We can plug into mains electrickery there and fully charge our shiny new batteries. Not that they are suffering, indeed our solar panel is working wonders in this bright sunshine. So much so that we hardly have to run the engine, except when cruising and for say half an hour in order to give us hot water for the morning. But, even that isn’t always necessary, because we can run the heater, which uses less fuel than the engine.
So, with seven pages already written, I’ll post this one now.
All abreast for now.
Dave, Sheila and old Rusty-bucket
Yesterday I applied another coat of cream paint to the ends of our pole and will try painting other parts today. A couple of lengths of Green and Maroon should make it look rather pretty. Not surprisingly, after almost two years where nothing has been done by way of repairs, there are quite a few scratches and nicks in the paintwork, so it’s about time we gave them some attention.
Tuesday 26th April and at last this Bank Holiday weekend is over but, aren’t we lucky, we have another one next weekend and I predict that the streets and pubs will be pretty quiet, unless of course the pubs are showing the wedding-of-the-year??
Our television is, as you all know, up the Swanee. Also, I have been trying to find a suitable tuner with which to repair it. However, having searched eBay for similar TV’s, we have come across several for less that £100 and they have DVD players included and Free 24 hour delivery. So, forget the tuner, a new TV will soon be winging its way to us, assuming we can persuade a local Post Office to take delivery.
Actually, in purchasing a TV with built in DVD player, we can then sell on the DVD player/recorder with inbuilt HDD and reduce the total cost, not to mention save some space.
Today we’re off to Hassall Green., which is just two miles and, depending upon where we moor up, about five locks away. It also looks like we’ll be doing the trip is calm and dry weather. If we can arrange delivery of a TV to Hassall Green Post Office, we’ll stay a couple of days. Hey, we’re in no hurry!!
Actually, between this side of Harecastle Tunnel and the Middlewich Branch, there are 31 locks, which is why this stretch of the T&M is called “Heartbreak Hill”, but known to old boatmen as Cheshire Locks. Hassall Green boasts a Post Office and stores along with ‘limited’ boatyard services The stores incorporates a canal shop, which I suppose means canal memorabilia and such.
Wednesday 27th April and we’re hoping to get to Wheelock this morning, which is eight locks and about two miles away. We are getting rather low on water, most likely because we stayed in one place too long, Rode Heath.
I can’t say we’re impressed with Hassall Green, very limited moorings and the local, the Romping Donkey, is closed and up for sale. There is a very good little canal shop selling sweeties and a small range of general goodies, and a Brasserie next door, with plenty of seating outside. But, if the local traders can’t be bothered to ensure adequate moorings; and they are right beside the M6 Motorway; how can they expect to do business with boaters? Hmm! Perhaps they don’t!!
Anyway we ended up a couple of bridges away and it wasn’t until we visited the canal shop that we discovered the pub was closed. According to the nice lady running the shop the pub was forever changing hands. It obviously needs somebody who knows what needs to be done to make a success of it.
My good friend Alan Oxley, he of my RAF days who now resides in Germany, let me in on some scandalous news yesterday, or was it the day before? Sadly he, or rather his missus, has sworn me to secrecy, so I can’t pass it on. What a shame as it really was quite a juicy piece of gossip. I wonder if they would notice if I whispered it!
The weather has now turned pretty horrid and it’s cold and overcast this morning. However it is calm and peaceful and, with Wheelock being only a couple of miles away, we should reach it before the heavens open up and we must get there today. There never seems to be enough water points along the canals.
I mentioned our need for a new TV, well I think I have found just the thing. It has all the bells and whistles, including record and playback from external media, DVD player and. very important, three years guarantee. All I have to do is persuade them to deliver to a Post Office somewhere along our route.
Friday 29th April and it is another beautiful day. We had a small smattering of rain last night, but all is well now.
I spoke to the people at Swanley Marina on Wednesday and they agreed to accept the TV for us, so we have booked in to stay for a couple of days. The TV has now been despatched and should be there by the time we arrive on Tuesday.
The marina is only about two miles from Nantwich so, assuming there is a bus service, we’ll take a ride in, something we’ve done on a couple of occasions before.
Today we’ll move along a few miles and then, on Saturday, we’ll go to Barbridge for the weekend and on to the marina at Swanley on Tuesday.
We have overnighted at a beauty spot we have stopped at in the past and our journey, although rather long, what with the stopover at Middlewich for some much needed shopping, was very pleasant in blazing sunshine. Goodness knows when this fine weather will end, but you can bet your life it won’t be pleasant when it does.
Saturday 30th April and yet another sunny start to the day. The wind has also dropped, which is something of a blessing. All we have planned for today is to get down to Barbridge, which involves just two locks with a stop off at a boatyard for diesel.
Last night, or should I say early this morning, our wee doggy came and sat at the foot of the bed at 03.30. This is a recognisable sign that she wishes to go outside. In the best traditions of good Wifferey, Sheila volunteered to take Rusty out and who am I to object. One volunteer, etc, etc.
From Barbridge we plan on taking a bus ride into Nantwitch for a few bits and bobs. On Sunday we’ll move along a bit to just opposite the pub and have a few beers and we’ll probably stay until Tuesday morning, when we’ll make our way to Swanley Marina where, we hope, our nice new TV will be waiting for us. Not that we’ve really missed it all that much but, when the lousy weather does turn up, and you may be assured that it will, it will be nice to have something to do other than reading.
A light, following breeze has now sprung up and, just so long as it stays light, we won’t complain.
I’ve just been delving into the Serif programmes that Ian gave me. Hmmm! Seems to be a bit of a steep learning curve. Must set aside some time to read through the destructions!!
It is now almost 3.30 on Saturday afternoon and I have just received an email from Swanley Marina, our new TV has arrived. Hallelujah Brother!! The shame of it is, that we probably won’t get there until Tuesday, so I will miss another programme I would like to see. It’s all about a bunch of Canadians replicating the Bouncing Bomb as used by The Dambusters in WWII. No problem though, it will probably be repeated sometime soon.
This morning after our cuppa after arriving here, we caught the bus into Nantwich and simply wandered around for an hour. It really is a great town for shops and markets, especially on a Saturday, but we do find the produce on the market stalls to be very expensive. Perhaps we have been spoiled by the supermarkets, but a multi-seed brown loaf at £2.60? Jeez, someone is making a decent profit here.
Thus far in our exhausting travels, the Internet has been very kind to us, because we have almost always had all five bars up on our signal strength indicator. If, when we are on the other side of the Shropshire Union; which will probably be another month or so away; we still get such good reception, I will have no worries regarding emails and such. This will be a first since we bought Shiralee.
On our trip down from our moorings of yesterday, we met a tame female Mallard. She repeatedly landed on the bost, walked around a bit, stood very close to Sheila and posed for her photograph on numerous occasions. Only on one other occasion have we come across such behaviour and that was at Crick back in 2007, when I had one feeding out of my hand.
I am pleased to announce that, this morning, Monday 2nd May, at 08.20, n.b Shiralee gained access to the Llangollen Canal through Hurlestaon Locks and promptly moored up for water at the top of the locks.
From there onwards it gradually became more and more windy until, what with the current being against us, we decided to stop at Burland, which is a very small village boasting a new shop. Initially we thought we might continue to the marina, but playing with 15 tonnes of canal boat in a high wind, is not conducive to a good temper. So, we’ll stay here until the morning, when there should be less of a wind.
Now, you may be questioning my remarks about a ‘current’, but the Llangollen Canal is unlike any other in the UK, as far as we know. This canal is fed directly from the River Dee at Llantysilio, which is considerably further north at Horseshoe Falls, about a mile from Llangollen.
Sadly, having decided to stay here for the rest of today and tonight, Wifey has discovered that the marina is just around the corner from the bridge ahead of us. Still, I’d rather stay here than have to faff about with Shiralee in a high wind as she can be somewhat temperamental in such conditions
Here at Burland the shop has only recently opened and must be quite a boon for the boaters at the marina. Indeed, I suspect that the man running it, who is himself a live aboard boater at Swanley Bridge marina, must have spotted a golden opportunity. Not just for the marina inhabitants, but for those in the village. Good for him I say!
Tuesday 3rd May and still the sunshine persists.
This morning we leave at about 08.30 or so to get to the marina and we will stay for a couple of days. We can plug into mains electrickery there and fully charge our shiny new batteries. Not that they are suffering, indeed our solar panel is working wonders in this bright sunshine. So much so that we hardly have to run the engine, except when cruising and for say half an hour in order to give us hot water for the morning. But, even that isn’t always necessary, because we can run the heater, which uses less fuel than the engine.
So, with seven pages already written, I’ll post this one now.
All abreast for now.
Dave, Sheila and old Rusty-bucket
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