Summer 2015: Crick 8

Monday 7^th September to Saturday 25^th September

 Tuesday 8^th September

 We made our way to Fradley Junction yesterday morning and, yet again were caught behind two slow moving boats, which meant a longer journey than normal. Of course this was our own fault again, because we walked to the shops for the Mail before setting off. Still, it was a very pleasant morning for cruising, so we weren’t complaining.

 There was an interesting ad in the Mail though, a full page spread about books on Tablets and iPads and, since I still know nothing about these things, I have emailed for more info.

 Today we’ll be off to Whittington where, if the weather is kind to us, we’ll stay for two days and get some more painting.

 I received an email from another person enquiring about my Cartoon Portraits yesterday morning. Unfortunately I didn’t see it until much later in the day. The request was for a cartoon for his wife on their wedding anniversary. I asked him to send me the usual details asap, but have not received a reply as yet. He wants the cartoon for this coming Saturday, which is pushing it a bit, but I said I would do my best for him, even though I would normally need seven days in order to create a good cartoon.

 With Cartoon Portraits it is necessary to concentrate on the person’s face, before adding it to a cartoon body and then filling in the rest of the cartoon with other objects, which all depend upon the person’s likes and hobbies etc. Still, perhaps he’ll get back to me today, although I’m not really expecting him to now when he had all day yesterday to do so.

 Friday 11^th September

 Yesterday dawned bright but misty and, when it came to leaving Whittington the sun was just about ready to emerge from the mist. Unfortunately, as seems to be our habit of late, we found ourselves behind two slow boats and spent an extra half hour in getting to Fazeley. Thank goodness we had no locks to contend with. Apart from a visit to the shops and Wifey doing a bit more painting, we had a pretty restful day.

We’ll stay here today and, if the weather holds good, get some more painting done.

 Saturday 12^th September

 Well, Wifey did rather well with the boat painting yesterday, going all over the outside of the bow and some of the inside. Now, you may be wondering what I’ve been doing whilst she’s been slaving over a mucky paintbrush. The problem here is that we can’t both be in the same place wielding a paintbrush and, since she does such a good job of it, I seem to be somewhat redundant. Have no fear though, because I have no doubt my turn will come.

 Today, with nasty, threatening skies, we made our way through five miles and two locks, to Polesworth, getting a pretty good dousing along the way. However, it looks like the rest of today is going to be a mixed bag; one minute rain and the next sunshine.

 We’ll stay here tomorrow, of course, because it’s Sunday and the pub is a short walk away.

 Wednesday 16^th September

 We spent Saturday and Sunday at Polesworth and came through to Atherstone on Monday morning. Unfortunately, with the weather being so bad, we’ve been unable to get any more boat painting done and, looking at the forecast for the rest of this week, it’s unlikely we’ll get anything done soon.

 Last year when we stopped her at Atherstone, we did notice a few problems with TV reception; we do have a railway line running close by. This year it has been a much bigger problem, because there seem to be many more trains; especially freight trains; passing through here at all times of the day and night. So, next time we come through Atherstone, we’ll stop for shopping and carry on through. This must be just about the worse place on any canal for interference of TV signal.

 Today we’ll go up a few locks and head on to Springwood Haven Marina, where we’ll top up with diesel and buy some more coal and a gas bottle.

 Friday 18^th September

 On Wednesday morning we set sail for Springwood Haven but stopped off at Hartshill instead. This is because we were fortunate to meet up with the diesel barge along the way, and we topped up with diesel and bought a gas bottle and three bags of coal. So, instead of going on to Springwood Haven; where we originally intended to do likewise, we stopped short at Hartshill and spent the night there.

 In the afternoon on Wednesday we took Alex out and made our way across the bridge, with the intention of walking up to the local pub. However, since this seemed to be quite a busy road and had no footpath, we decided against that idea. We simply wanted to see what the local pubs were like so we could possibly pay one of them a visit next time we come through.

 We left Hartshill at about 08.00 yesterday morning and made our way to the Ashby Canal, where we stopped at bridge 3, where Wifey managed to get a bit more painting done later in the day. We’ve had some rain overnight, so I’m not sure that she’ll be able to do any more today.

 Sunday 20^th September

 Yesterday morning dawned with a thick fog, so we had to delay our departure from bridge 3. Thankfully we didn’t have to delay it by much and were at Lime Kilns by about 10 am. Upon arrival we took a walk to the local BP garage for the paper and milk. Later in the day, once the boat had thoroughly dried off, Wifey got stuck into some more painting.

 This morning we’ll do the garage walk again and then we’ll pay a visit to the pub which, strange to say, bears the same name as the place we’re now moored at.

 Tuesday 22^nd September

 We took the bus to Nuneaton yesterday and shopped at Asda. We desperately needed bread and, since we prefer uncut, looked through the rack to find a large wholemeal. We came away from Asda’s minus bread because the latest ‘Use By’ date we could find was for the 22^nd. With the best will in the world, Wifey and I would never devour a whole loaf in two days. So, off to Gregg’s where we can at least expect the bread to be fresh on the day.

 Friday 25^th September

 Yesterday morning, after a short walk to the shop for the Mail and milk, we left Hinkley Wharf and headed for Market Bosworth, stopping off at Sutton Wharf for water and the disposal of rubbish.

 There is a new marina being constructed at MB, which is just past the road bridge, and the long term moorings before the bridge are now 48 hour, where they were long term moorings last time we came through. Unbeknown to us the first few spaces outside the marina have now been turned over to long term and, when we arrived at about 11 am, all the 48 hour moorings were already taken, so we had to moor up at the new long term moorings. We’re hoping we’re not asked to move along today, because we really do need to stay here until Saturday morning, when we will walk into town for anything we need, but especially the Mail.

 We’ve not really had enough good weather for painting of late and, now that autumn is officially here, I suppose we can now expect even more damp mornings. Still, we do still have a few weeks to go so we might be lucky.

 Alex takes a dive:

It was never advisable to let Rusty off her lead, because we couldn’t guarantee she would come back at our call. With Alex though, we have found that while we’re moored up along the canal, he will make a run for the boat when his lead is released.

 Yesterday afternoon Wifey took him for a longish walk and, when she came within sight of the boat, she let him off his lead. As usual, he took to the sprint and raced towards the stern deck, which he was approaching from the bow end. Sadly our wee pooch misjudged his leap onto the stern deck and went head first into the canal. By the time Wifey had hauled him out he was shaking like a leaf and she even had trouble coaxing him onto the boat.

 I suggested to Sheila this morning that, now that he’s discovered what it’s like in the canal, perhaps it will be safe enough to leave him off his lead whilst we’re cruising. After all, he’ll make the effort to stay away from the edge of the deck now that he’s suffered his first soaking.

 And, on that happy note I’ll see if I can post this blog.

 Have a great weekend folks.

 Dave, Sheila and Alex.

 

 

 

 

Summer 2015: Crick 7

Friday 21^st August to Monday 7^th September

 Saturday 22^nd August

 Yesterday morning we made our way to Fradley Junction, which takes us from the Coventry canal to the Trent and Mersey canal. Later in the day we took Alex for a walk around the Wildlife Park and then sat outside the shop and enjoyed an ice cream. After that it was simply a case of chilling out for the rest of the day.

 This morning, after disposing of rubbish and topping up with water, we’ll make our way to Handsacre, where we’ll stop for the weekend.

 Tuesday 25^th August

 Saturday and Sunday were spent at Handsacre and we managed to enjoy the sunshine with our drinks at the local pub.

 Monday morning saw us meandering our way to the Pig Farm, which is just a few miles from Great Haywood. After spending the night there, we topped up with diesel from the diesel barge, which lies alongside the farm, and we finally made it to Great Haywood by about 10.30 am.

 We’ll stay here today and tomorrow, and then we’ll move on to Weston. After that it’s just a few more miles to Stone, where we’ll stay until Monday morning. In between times we’ll be meeting up with Alan and Chris Oxley on and will probably enjoy a pub lunch with them.

 I had a pleasant surprise this morning, in the form of an email from a lady in Crick, asking me to do a Cartoon Portrait for her Father-in-Law’s upcoming 65^th birthday. At least my ad in the local Post Office seems to be attracting attention.

 Friday 28^th August

 On Wednesday we stayed at Great Haywood and did some shopping at the excellent Farm Shop. Their sausage rolls and scotch eggs are to die for, as are their pork pies.

 Yesterday saw us arriving at Weston by about 10.30, where we almost had a bow-to-bow crash with another boat coming towards us. At the time we were about to move over to our left and moor up. Unfortunately the other boater chose that moment to come round the bend, so we were crossing paths. All was well in the end, but it was pretty close.

 I have almost finished the Cartoon Portrait for Susie, but I’m waiting for her to reply to my email asking what she would like as a birthday message. Once that’s done I can add the message and email the final cartoon to her.

  Today we’ll be moving on to Stone, where we’ll stay until Monday.

 Monday 31^st August

 Saturday was a pretty good day, all things considered. The weather stayed fine for our trip to Stone and, after our usual cup of coffee, we sat and waited for a text from Alan. We only sat for a short while and then walked over to the town, did a bit of shopping, then sat at the bus stop to await the arrival of Alan and Chris.

 Alan reads mostly factual books, which range from autobiographies, through factual adventures and on to crooks and maths. I think you’ll agree that that’s a pretty eclectic mix. Sheila and I read mainly novels and the occasional biography. However, since we were running somewhat short of reading material, Alans shopping trolley full of books was most welcome, although some of them had to be stored in the bedroom cupboard until needed.

 Later in the day we all repaired to the Weatherspoon’s pub for lunch, then back to the boat coffee and a chat, after which we walked them to the bus stop and said cheerio, until next year.

 Yesterday was a relaxation day, but only after more shopping, this time at Morrison’s, because we hope to leave here today, except that it’s now coming down in bucket loads.

 Tuesday 1^st September

 It rained all day yesterday and it looks set to do so again today. Unfortunately we really do need to get back to Great Haywood and we also need to top up with water. So, whatever the weather, we have to get moving today.

  Wednesday 2^nd September

 We set off from Stone yesterday morning at about 8 am and, after reversing back to the water point, we topped up and made the six miles to Weston by 11 am. Along the way we met other boaters coming through the locks, one of which told Sheila that the little shop in Weston was now closed. So, no Daily Mail for that day.

As the boat was still pretty wet from all that rain yesterday and overnight, no painting could be done. In fact we haven’t managed any painting for a week.

 For the rest of the day, apart from taking Alex for his walks, we chilled out until it came time to run the engine again at 5 pm. Which is when I got something of a nasty surprise, it wouldn’t start. You know that noise you get when trying to start the car, the one that’s a click and nothing else? Well, that’s what I got. Obviously we now have a Starter Motor problem. Still, I persevered with it and the engine finally started. Phew! That was close.

 This morning we should be going on to Great Haywood but, if we have a problem starting the engine again, we’ll have to call out River and Canal Rescue (RCR), with whom we have an account. Whereas they won’t come out for domestic issues; such as problems with power or appliances; this is very much up their street. Hopefully it won’t be necessary, because we are running short of coal, and we still haven’t had our heating sorted out.

 Watch this space.

 Thursday 3^rd September

 Well, we were lucky, the engine started first time and we made it safely to Great Haywood. We had been hoping to be able to pull in to the water point when we arrived, but all the spaces were full up. However, as luck would have it, the coal and diesel barge was among them, so we pulled alongside and bought three bags of coal, after which we found a mooring spot just past the junction.

 The engine also started yesterday evening, so we’re hoping it was just a wee Gremlin at work.

 We’ll be staying here for today and will pay another visit to the farm shop. We’ll move along a few miles to the pig farm tomorrow morning.

 Friday 4^th September

 After walk to the local shop for the Mail, milk and crumpets, we set off for the pig farm at about 08.45. Being only three miles and two locks away, we should have made it by 10.15, or so. However, as is sometimes the case and because we had left later than normal, we came upon a backlog of boats waiting to go down the second of those two locks. To make matters worse, there was also a boat and butty waiting to come up. In the event we arrived at the pig farm 11.15.

Other than the delay going through that lock, we arrived in good fettle and settled in for our coffee and biscuits; in this case well deserved.

 Saturday 5^th September

 When we arrived at the pig farm yesterday morning, we were met with a whole line of boats, all members of the Boaters Christian Fellowship. These people have a meeting here every year; possibly more than once per year; and we happened along at the wrong time. However, we did manage to find a mooring spot, so we were pretty lucky.

 This morning started out with a fine drizzly rain, this is just about the worst possible weather for cruising, if you discount heavy rain and snow of course. But, it’s now almost 07.30 and the sky seems to be clearing, so we should be OK for our run to Rugeley for shopping and then on to Handsacre for the weekend.

 Monday 7^th September

 We were lucky with the weather again yesterday and were able to spend a pleasant hour in the pub garden. Other than that we simply chilled out for the day.

 This morning the weather is supposed to be warm and dry although, looking at the bright red sky earlier, I’m not too sure. Hopefully we’ll be able to make our way to Fradley Junction.

 And, on that note I’ll wish you a very good week.

 Dave, Sheila and Alex.

 

 

 

Summer 2015: Crick 6

Monday 10th August to Friday 21^st August

 Monday 10^th August

 Yesterday, I’m very pleased to say, was a little cooler, but still too hot for working on the paintwork. So, after paying the local shop a visit, for the mail and milk, we spent the day idling away the time and spent an hour sitting outside The Greyhound Inn.

 Today we’ll be moving on to Springwood Haven and, if the weather stays cool, we’ll get some more rubbing down done.

 Tuesday 11^th August

 After a walk round to the shop yesterday morning, we finally left Hawkesbury Junction at 08.30 and arrived at Springwood Haven at 11.00, just about the right time for coffee and biscuits.

 Along the way we passed the Trip Boat out of Boot Wharf in Nuneaton and who should be driving it was none other than a boater we haven’t seen for some time, whose name is Dave. He and his wife Jackie were moored at Pillings Lock Marina at the same time as us, which was way back in 2009/10; the same period as when I had my knees replaced.

 That Trip Boat had only just left the Wharf and, as we came round the bend we came face to face with a right jumble of boats. One of them was about to reverse back to the wharf, whilst another was attempting to give him room to do so, and then along came Shiralee to stir things up a bit. Eventually the other boaters decided it would be better to make room for Shiralee before sorting themselves out.

 By early afternoon the clouds had drifted over and we were able to get a small amount of rubbing down done, after which Wifey applied the rust killer.

 Today we’ll be off to Atherstone where we’ll do some shopping and more rubbing down, we hope.

 Wednesday 12^th August

 It took 2½ hours to cover the four miles and five locks to Atherstone yesterday morning, all in fine, dry weather. Our first priority, as you all know, was our coffee and chocolate biscuits, after which a visit to the local Co-op.

 Now, we have three puzzle books that we buy every month; Puzzler’s Sudoku and Suguru, along with Killer Sudoku, which is Wifey’s speciality. Unfortunately Suguru is fairly new, and so the Co-op hasn’t quite caught up with that one and we even find that Smith’s don’t always have it on their shelves either. So, first thing this morning we’ll be taking a walk down the High Street, to see if we can find it in another Newsagent. However, since it is now a week since the latest issue came out, I have my doubts about finding it.

 Around about midday yesterday Wifey took Alex for a long walk; something she likes to do most days. I sat reading for a while and, when I judged she should be back soon, I put the kettle on for a cuppa. We don’t use the electric kettle when cruising, because it draws too much power from the batteries, so it’s the old fashioned gas stove model for us, which take some time to boil.

 So, aforementioned kettle is about to come to the boil and I stuck my head out of the hatch and I could just see her coming along by the sixth lock. When she finally arrived a few minutes later, along came our old friends from Kecksy’s farm in Sawbridgeworth, Bill and Babs.

 Of course we had a quick chat as they passed by but, as I fully expected from Bill, he walked back to us for a more lengthy chat and to catch up on the latest from Sawbridgeworth. Amongst other topics were the loss of their dog, Mollie and the loss of a friendship at the farm. We discovered also that he’s not too fond of the form of art that Picasso turned out, and that he’s under his doctor with various complaints, very much like I am. Well, he’s 76 now, although you wouldn’t think he suffered from anything more than the odd cold here and there.

 We’ll be staying at Atherstone today and, if the weather is in our favour, will go through the rest of this string of locks and moor up again. We plan to be in Polesworth for the weekend.

 Almost forgot, our Alex has become pretty close to Wifey and is none too happy when she’s out of sight. He’s OK when we both go off shopping; in itself pretty odd; but he frets when she’s off the boat and operating the locks. Yesterday he kicked up quite a stink as she walked between locks and started howling, almost like a wolf and quite loud. We’ve not known him to do so before, not even when going through locks, so it seemed quite comical this time around.

 Thursday 13^th August

 It is now 07.10 and, although overcast, it’s still dry out there. I mention this because we really would like to go down the remaining four locks and moor up away from the noise of local traffic and trains. Unfortunately, according to Shefali Oza, the weather girl at BBC West Midlands, we’re due for some pretty heavy rain this morning. So, will we get away, or won’t we? Watch this space.

 Friday 14^th August

 The forecast storms and such didn’t turn up yesterday morning so we ventured forth, down four locks and were moored up within an hour of leaving Atherstone.

 Later in the day we started getting the odd wasp in the boat, which Wifey swiftly caught and released out of the hatch, only to find another one somewhere else in the boat. Eventually we found them coming in in twos and threes, so we closed all the windows, which made it pretty warm in here, especially when Wifey started cooking dinner.

 Even though all the windows were closed, still the little blighters were finding their way in. Wifey suggested they were crawling in through the condensation drainage holes in the bottom of the windows. But those holes aren’t big enough, or so we thought. However, when she actually saw a wasp coming out of one of those holes in a bedroom window, we were proved wrong. The only other place they were likely to be finding a way in, would have been through the sides of the stern hatch. The problem was somewhat minimised when Wifey stuffed the holes in the bedroom with kitchen towel.

 The rain eventually turned up during the night and, even if it starts again this morning we’ll want to be away from this wasp-infested area. Our next stop will be Polesworth, assuming there’s enough space for us, otherwise we’ll continue on to Fazeley.

 Sunday 16^th August

 Here at Polesworth we are moored up with trees on both sides of the canal. Because of this the inside of the boat is rather chilly come morning. Yesterday morning I tried to put the heater on, but without any luck and, with our distribution panel showing 12.2 volts, I thought it ought to have worked. However, since I hadn’t run the engine until the batteries reached their float charge, I assumed low power to be the problem. Well, this morning proved me wrong, no heater again. We ran the engine for a total of 5 ½ hours yesterday and brought the batteries to float on both occasions and, what’s more, we didn’t have the inverter/charger on at all, except when Wifey did the ironing, but the engine was running at that point, so shouldn’t have made a difference.

 I think Wifey had her suspicions yesterday evening, because she asked me if I wanted the fire lit, but I decided against it. This morning I am sitting here with a cardigan on, because it’s like sitting in an icebox right now. So, fire alight later today and I also have to repair our Eco-Fan in order to spread the heat about.

 Thursday 20^th August

 On Monday morning, in order to top up with water, we moved the boat about 100yds to the water point and then a short distance further on to a mooring point. Then, later in the day we continued to rub down the starboard side below the gunwale.

 On Tuesday morning we completed the six miles to Whittington and, after a bit of shopping at the local Co-op and a coffee, we completed the rubbing down and rust proofing of the area we rubbed down on Monday.

 Yesterday was a day that begged us to start painting the back half of the roof, which we set about doing as soon as we had visited the Co-op once again. We first removed the centre rope and other objects that usually clutter up that half of the roof, such as the pole, plank and boat hook. Sheila elected to paint from the port side, whilst I worked from the towpath side.

 We finished that half of the roof and took a break for lunch, after which we hemmed and hawed as to whether to remove the top-box and flower boxes and painting the front half. Shame on us but we decided against it and, as you would expect, we were treated to loads of rain later and overnight, so the chances of doing so today are pretty remote. So far it has stayed dry today, but probably not enough for the roof to dry out for more painting. Still, we continue to moor up on this side until Saturday, when we’ll be at Handsacre for the weekend and, if the weather stays dry we should be able to finish the roof.

 Friday 21^st August

 Hallelujah!! We finally finished the roof yesterday afternoon. Thankfully, although it threatened rain for most of the day, we had a fairly decent breeze that dried the overnight dew off. So, we left it until early afternoon and got stuck in, and now we only have the sides below the gunwale to finish off.

 Of course, there’s more to do over the rest of the boat, such as the outside of the bow and stern, along with the whole interior of the bow and especially the floor, which need a good rub down and several coats of paint, but we can do that by stopping for a few days somewhere away from the madding crowd.

 Now, it’s Friday morning and we’ll be off to Fradley Junction but, before we do I’ll wish you all a very pleasant weekend and post this blog.

 All abreast from Dave, Sheila and Alex.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Summer 2015: Crick 5

Friday 17^th July to Sunday 9^th August

 Saturday 18^th July

 The weather stayed fine for us yesterday morning, so we made our way to Market Harborough, arriving there at 10.15.

 After a much needed cup of coffee we then walked into town for some shopping and took Alex with us. This meant that I could find myself somewhere to sit; which turned out to be the steps of the local church; whilst Wifey strolled around the local Co-op. We then strolled back to the boat, having nothing more to do in town. Wifey will be going in again this morning for some additional retail therapy, while I stay here with Alex. Suits me, one walk into Market Harborough is enough for me in any one year.

 Monday 20^th July

 Yesterday lunchtime we walked along to the locks and had our usual drink and snacks at the smaller of the two pubs, the name of which escapes me.

 Anyway, while Sheila waited outside with Alex, I asked for a Guinness for me, a J2O for Wifey and snacks for us to share. When I asked for the Guinness the bartender said, “We don’t have draught Guinness, but we do have this ‘swishy’ thing”, and went on to explain what he meant. They have what looks like a Guinness pump but, instead of it pouring a drink, it has a small stand on which to sit the glass, after it has been poured from a can. This stand is given a small splash of water, the glass is stood upon it and, after pressing a button the Guinness fizzes and a head appears on it. Magic!!

 Now, when I went back for a refill, I asked a different barman about this and he said, “A Guinness keg now costs £150 and is far too expensive for us as a small pub, so we had this installed instead, otherwise we would have to charge £3.80 per pint in order to see a profit”, and I left it at that.

 If memory serves me correctly a keg of Guinness holds 11 gallons, well it did in our day working in pubs. By my calculations 11 gallons is equal to 88 pints and by dividing £150 by 88 we get £1.70p per pint as the cost to the pub. They therefore have £2.10 gross profit on a pint. Somewhat less if you take in transportation costs. I see no problems with that, do you?

Today we’ll be going up Foxton locks and mooring a couple of miles further on.

 Thursday 23^rd July

 This morning has dawned bright and sunny, which is just as well ‘cos we’re on the last five miles back to Crick. We have lots to do when we get there, not least of which is shopping and topping the car up with petrol. Let’s hope it stays fine for that five miles.

 Saturday 25^th July

 We enjoyed a calm and leisurely, five mile cruise back to the marina on Thursday morning, and it stayed calm even up to slotting the boat into our mooring bay; in a strong wind this can be something of a chore.

 In the afternoon we took a drive over to Daventry to fill the car up with petrol, because I’m driving down to Harlow this morning, where I’ll be visiting Les and then Chris and Marilyn, then on to Alan for the rest of the day. This will be my last visit until November, so I’d better make the most of it.

 On Monday afternoon I have an appointment with the Podiatrist, but we’ll probably do some shopping in the morning. After that it will be a case of deciding which day to leave here; probably Wednesday or Thursday, depending upon the weather.

 Thursday 30^th July

 After a recent visit to the Podiatrist in Daventry, I have been advised to increase the dosage of one of my painkillers, so I am awaiting a phone call from my GP and hoping that, once she has written out the new prescription, we’ll be able to collect it and be on our way tomorrow morning.

 Friday 31^st July     

 Well, it looks like we’ll be able to set out on this year’s cruise today, albeit somewhat than usual. The weather is fine and there’s barely a breeze so, all we need to do before we go, is get today’s paper and dispose of rubbish. Whoopee!

 Saturday 1^st August

 We finally left Crick at 9.30 yesterday morning and our first task was to run through Crick tunnel. This is not a problem normally, not even that late in the morning, but it wasn’t long before we ran into trouble, in the form of another boat coming the other way.

 Now, as most people are aware; even you landlubbers; traffic flow on canals and rivers is the Continental way of driving on the right hand side. Well, we were only about 100 yards short of the exit, when this moron entered the tunnel. The problem was that he entered on our side; obviously thinking he was driving his car, rather than his boat. Naturally I called to him to move over, but I ended up ‘helping’ him by very gently sliding our bow alongside his boat, thereby nudging him over to his own side. “Sorry about that he said, I was just getting myself organised”.

 Anyway we finally made it through and arrived at the top of Watford locks, which are a mixture of single and staircase, so require the attendance of a lock-keeper. Naturally, since we were pretty late in arriving, boats were already in the process of coming up, so we had to hang around and wait for them, but we eventually moved through them and arrived at Wilton Hythe marina by 12.30.

 In the afternoon we had a go at removing nasty bits of rust from the port side of the roof and applied rust remover. Later today, after we get to the top of Braunston Locks, we’ll apply some primer to those patches.

 We’ll probably drop down the locks on Sunday morning.

 

Sunday 2^nd August

 We arrived at the top of Braunston locks at about 09.30 and, since there was another boat just about to go down, we decided to go with them; these locks are double size. So, by about 10.30 or so, we had moored up outside the marina.

 Interestingly, the man on the other boat lives in Germany, not only that, he also lives in Hamburg, which is where my RAF pal Alan lives. Small world!

 Anyway, he comes to the UK about six times per year and has his boat moored on the Cambridgeshire Levels, at a marina called Fox Boats. Not only that, but no boat licence is needed for the levels. Although it is still necessary to obtain a licence if you want to cruise the River Nene; this needs a bit more investigation.

 We took a walk up to the chandlery later in the day and bought a new and thicker rope for our centre line. We also bought more green paint and some ‘rope’ for the fire door which, although we cleaned the chimney, still exuded smoke from around the door.

 Today is a day of rest and will see us in The Admiral Nelson at lunchtime. Meanwhile, I’m off to start breakfast.

 Monday 3^rd August

 After a walk up to the village shop for the paper and some odds and sods, we left our Braunston moorings at 08.30 and made our way to the top of Hilmorton locks, where we arrived at 11.00.

 We then got the tin of black non-slip paint out and filled in the primer patches on the port side of the roof. Sheila then inched her way along the starboard gunwale and checked if anything of a similar nature needed doing there and found nothing untoward. So, tomorrow morning; assuming the weather is dry; we’ll remove some of the tat from the roof; ie, Top-box and flower boxes; and we’ll have a go at repainting at least some of the roof.

 Wednesday 5^th August

 My dear Wife carried out some more rubbing down and applied rust killer to that stretch of the boat below the gunwale, which is very low and, since I am unable to bend down onto my knees, is yet another chore I have to leave to her. But, don’t worry my turn will come when we get to painting the roof and other, higher parts of the boat.

 Now, does anybody out there read the Daily Mail? If you do then you will be aware of the regular cartoons by Mac. Ordinarily I wouldn’t comment on these; they are usually pretty cute and comical, so nothing needs to be said.

 However, in yesterday’s cartoon he showed long queues at the gates to heaven with the caption reading, “Sorry about the long queue Cilla, there are thousands of illegals trying to get in!” Well, I can see the point of this cartoon but, with Cilla having just passed away and literally hundreds of migrants dying trying to reach Europe, I thought this was rather tasteless. Perhaps it’s just me…………….!!

 This morning we’ll be moving on to Newbold, where we can catch the bus into Rugby for a bit of retail therapy.

Saturday 8^th August

 Whilst at Newbold yesterday, we took the opportunity to bus into Rugby for shopping. Unlike Crick, the bus service is much more frequent and two buses run at about 20 minute intervals, so we were there and back in record time.

 This morning we cruised the five miles to bridge 26 and, after our usual coffee and read of the paper, Wifey then did some more painting on the port side gunwale. This had to be done today because the moorings at Hawkesbury are on the starboard side. Shiralee is now looking somewhat less patchy and, just as soon as we get to the Ashby canal we should be able to finish both sides below the gunwale.

 Sunday 9^th August

 We set off for Hawkesbury at 08.00, which is usually early enough to get us to the shallow lock, which lies a few yards short of the Greyhound pub at Hawkesbury. Along the way though, just as we came into Ansty at about 09.00, another two boats pulled out ahead of us. Then, a short while later a small cruiser also pulled out ahead of us, making another three boats going through the lock before we got there.

 Now, for those of you unfamiliar with Hawkesbury Junction, the approach to that single lock is between a line of boats moored on both sides, so, with four boats lined up to go through that lock, it’s absolute chaos. After pulling in to allow a couple of those boats to go through, we decided to top up with water first, by which time another two boats had gone through.

 All this faffing about gave us cause for concern as to whether we would find a space to moor up, but we were fortunate in that some of those boats didn’t stop.

 We had intended to get some more rubbing down done, this time on the starboard side but, alas, it was far too hot for us to do so and it will probably wait until we get to the Ashby.

 This morning is much cooler and, with heavy clouds no too far away, I suspect we’ll get some rain later, which means there’s not much chance of getting any painting done.

 On that happy note I think I’ll post this blog.

Take care folks and enjoy the rest of your weekend.

 Dave, Sheila and Alex.

 

 

 

 

 

Summer 2015: Crick 4

Sunday 5^th July to

 Over the past couple of months I have noticed that, just after posting this blog I get Ian’s email returned as undeliverable. This morning, after many attempts at rectifying the situation, I finally realised that I had his old email address. This has now been rectified and so, I’m sorry to say, poor Ian will now be receiving this blog again. Happy days Ian!!

 The weather looks to be fair again today and, once everything has dried off after yesterday’s rain, I’ll try to get a lick of paint onto the toolbox.

 Only a few days to go and we’ll be out there cruising. Yippee!!

 Tuesday 7^th July

 The temperature here has cooled somewhat over the past couple of days, which means we have been able to complete the stern deck paintwork.

 Yesterday I rubbed down our toolbox, which is attached to a stern rail and which carries all the metalwork we carry with us when cruising. Items such as the tiller arm, mooring pins, hooks and chains etc. Today, after the car has been checked for timing belt and cooling fan functioning, and provided the rain keeps off, I’ll give the box a coat of paint.

 The next job before we go off cruising for a couple of weeks will be to fit some proper support brackets to the solar panel. We bought the panel back in 2007, soon after we moored at Bulbourne for the winter of that year and, since then it’s been screwed to a couple of thick lengths of timber. Over this period the wood has started to rot, so we’ve bought four corner support brackets on which to sit the panel.

 But first, before refitting the panel to the roof, I have to rewire it with new cable, and we’ll have to paint the space on the roof that the panel has covered all this time. I was pleased to note though, that this space is still free of wear and only needs a good wash before painting.

 We’re hoping to get all the above chores done by tomorrow and could be off and out cruising by Thursday morning. This all assumes that the weather doesn’t hold us up, although the toolbox could wait until we’re out there; the roof and solar panel both have to be done first.

 Happy days are here again!!

 Wednesday 8^th July

 The weather has changed over the past few days, so much so that we haven’t been able to paint that section of roof where the solar panel goes. Today I’ll fit the support brackets to the panel, and we’re going shopping this morning. But we will have to call into Homebase for a couple of small right angled brackets. These brackets will anchor the panel to the roof to prevent it ‘taking off’ in a high wind. But, if this intermittent rain continues, we won’t be able to paint the roof and won’t be able to fit the panel. And, until we re-fit the panel, we ain’t going nowhere.

 Thursday 9^th July

 Yesterday was a bit of a bummer where work on the solar panel was concerned. I only managed to fit two of the support brackets before the heavens opened up, by which time the tennis was on…….!

 Today looks like it may remain dry, in which case I can complete the brackets and then paint the roof area where panel will be fitted.

 We’re hoping to be away by the weekend, but it all depends on at least finishing the painting of the roof and fitting of the panel. It’s too big to bring inside the boat and is currently taking up space on the stern deck, so moving the boat is just not possible. Yet!

 We did at least get the shopping done yesterday, so the day wasn’t completely wasted.

 Friday 10^th July

 Having fitted the new support brackets to the solar panel a few days ago, and having painted the patch on the roof where the panel sits, I then re-wired it and, with Wifey’s help, put the panel back on the roof. Of course we waited for the paint to dry!!

 Anyway, once we had centred the panel, we realised that the brackets were unsuited to the roof of the boat, because Liverpool Boats have curved roofs, so the only part of the brackets that make contact with the roof, is the inside edge. The rest of the bracket sticks out and doesn’t look too clever.

 As it happens we had bought for small right angled steel brackets, which we would have fitted anyway, to ensure the safety of the panel in high winds. So, today we’ll remove the support brackets – thank goodness they were cheap – and just fit the metal ones at each corner of the panel.

 The main thing is that the panel has now been rewired and that roof section has been repainted.

 The stern is also finished and the wrap-around shroud has been refitted, so we can now leave here as soon as we like. Today we’ll pop over to Braunston and buy a couple of non-slip adhesive pads for the edges of the stern deck and that will be that, for now anyway.

I’m pretty sure that, if Wifey had her way we’d be going out today. But I would prefer to stay for the weekend and watch the rest of the tennis. We’ll see what happens today though and I’m pretty sure the captain of this vessel will have her way. She usually does!!

 Monday 13^th July

 After walking around the Crick stalls yesterday we paid a visit to the club, by which time it was pouring with rain. It continued to do so for the rest of our usual hour, so I felt obliged to partake of another pint, which I nursed until it stopped. It had almost stopped raining when we left, so I didn’t feel too badly about spending that extra £3.00 on the third pint of Guinness.

 We watched the men’s Wimbledon final and had intended to take the boat out after that, but a strong wind had sprung up by then, so we abandoned that idea. Unfortunately it is now raining quite heavily, so I’m not sure that we’ll get away this morning either.

 Tuesday 14^th July

 Yesterday started with light drizzle and quite calm regarding wind, so we wandered off to the Co-op for a few bits and pieces. When we returned to the marina, disposed of rubbish and returned to the boat, by which time – as you would expect – the rain was heavier and a wind had sprung up. We sat around doing sweet Fanny Adams until about 2pm, by which time the rain had stopped, although it was still pretty windy. Still, we said ‘bugger it’ and wound up our landline cable, lowered the TV aerial and WiFi unit, untied the boat and away we went.

 About an hour later, having covered just three miles, and with the clouds thickening up, we pulled in by bridge 26 and settled in for the rest of the day. By the time we had moored up down came the rain, so it was just as well we stopped.

 Today? Well, who knows how far we’ll get? We do have heavy cloud cover, but it doesn’t look too threatening.

 Wednesday 15^th July

 Back in February, as some of you may remember, I had a polyp removed from my bladder and was released from hospital the following afternoon.

 Speaking with the surgeon who performed this delicate op, I was told to expect a follow up appointment with the clinic in about three weeks’ time. February, March, April and May swiftly passed and, just as we were about to leave the marina for a couple of weeks cruising, I received a letter inviting me to the aforementioned clinic at the end of the month.

 Now, Northampton General has yet to drag itself into the 21^st century, so there’s no email address on their correspondence and, since telephoning from the marina is fraught with difficulties, I decided to write back, explaining that we would now be away until November.

 You can imagine my surprise when, a few weeks later I received another appointment, this time for July 29^th. So, once again I wrote back and, once again I explained that we would be away until November.

 Just before we left the marina my phone rang and, since it was an unknown number, I simply switched it off. NGH are nothing if not persistent and just a few seconds later my phone ‘pinged’, informing me that I had a Voicemail which, after much jiggery-pokery – I’m still not completely familiar with this 21^st century technology – Wifey discovered that my appointment for July 29^th had now been brought forward to the 22^nd.

 Well, now, we won’t be back from this short trip until the 24^th, at the very earliest and, since I do not have NGH’s phone number listed inside my phone and have not retained any of their letters, I am unable to phone or write to them. I suppose the next letter I receive will be to complain that I missed an appointment.

 We are now on our way to Market Harborough and, with luck and better weather than yesterday; we should be there before the weekend. Yesterday was a bit of a bummer weather-wise and we spent 1½ hours cruising in the rain. This is not something we normally do, but it was necessary because we want to back at the marina for Friday 24^th as I want to drive down to Harlow and Alex has an appointment with the vet on the following Monday. I also have an appointment with the podiatrist on the same day.

 Following on from all of that, we’re hoping to be away for a few months after those appointments; probably sometime during that week. We hope…..!

 Friday 17^th July

 We spent three very pleasant hours yesterday cruising the five miles to the bottom of Foxton Locks. We took a walk back from our moorings and sat on a bench with ice creams and then, on the way back from there I received a phone call. This was, once again, from NHG, confirming my upcoming appointment. I’m hoping that I’ve finally convinced them that I will be unable to attend.

 Today we’ll be cruising the final five miles to Market Harborough, where we’ll do some shopping and stay overnight, returning to Foxton Locks on Saturday or Sunday morning.

 Meanwhile, I think it’s time I posted this blog. So, without further ado, I’ll wish you all a great weekend.

 Dave, Sheila and Alex.