Three Bloggers Meet

Moore 2 Life and No Problem met at Hartshill. Then Andrew of Granny Buttons called to see us. We all chatted face to face on M 2 L. The wonders of information technology bringing people together. 

  

Power Loss

We all take it for granted when it is always there. Power that is. Run the engine each day and there it is stored in those batteries for use in the evenings. The warning buzzer sounded in the evening. Quick rush to switch off the engine. The red light indicated that the alternator had suddenly failed. That thing on the engine which generates the electrical power. Lifted the board to let smoke out! Run the engine again to see sparks inside the alternator!

Don't like things like that going wrong, it's a threat to our boating life. We felt vulnerable even though we were only 4 miles from the nearest boat yard. Good job we were not in mid ocean! We had caught up with Terry & Myra again and Terry came round for moral support. Myra also came round to keep warm. It was Sunday evening so no point ringing for help. However our son Chris gave some advice on the phone. Terry agreed and also suggested how to charge the batteries using our start battery alternator. Yes, thankfully we have two alternators. There was enough charge in the batteries to last the evening but we had to limit ourselves to one light and no TV to ensure that the fridge kept going! It was a particularly cold night and time slowed down.

The next day after an unsettled night we set about rearranging the battery wiring and removed the drive belt from the dead alternator. This enabled the engine to be run without the sparks! A call for help to Rose Narrow Boats was answered. "Yes we can help, when you get here ask for Wayne." An hour later we were there and the alternator was removed for inspection. Our friends Terry & Myra on 'Juno' had set course for home. Wayne told us that the stator insulation had failed. He rang Beta for a replacement and they agreed to replace it as the alternator was less than 2 years old. Another long night with one light as the electrician had gone home without providing us with land line power.

Woke in the morning to find the fridge still going despite the low charge state of the batteries. We moved the boat back to a power point which was now available. Plugged in and charged the batteries for a few hours. The new alternator arrived and Wayne fitted and tested it. Then gave some valuable advice on how to charge batteries correctly. Its better to run the engine in the morning for at least 3 to 4 hours in order to fully charge the batteries. Then there is no need to run it again in the evening. It is no good running for short periods of time during the day.

Lights in the tunnel

We had seen the lights installed in Newbold tunnel some time ago and wondered why. The tunnel is so short it was hardly worth illuminating. Braunston tunnel could do with lights especially where it turns corners! We passed through in November when they were on and felt silly with our tunnel light on as well. Looked like we were passing through a rainbow with ribbons of multi coloured light. Public money can always be better spent. It was meant to attract visitors as the tow path goes through but the tunnel is well north of Rugby and there was nobody about.

A happy loss

Our second phone has got 'lost'. Been using it a few times in Daventry and kept it in my coat pocket. Back on the boat it was gone. Got the phone originally to get on the Internet but the lead kept popping off the connector. Then the phone got a soaking in a thunderstorm. The screen was never the same since! So whoever 'finds' it will probably not keep it. While on 'pay monthly' calls were never less than 20 pence a minute. Orange have disabled the SIM card so that it is unusable now. But I think that the phone book was in the phone memory. Apparently new phones can store the phone book in the SIM card. So if it is lost and disabled the numbers cannot be seen. We thankfully still have our old original phone.

Meeting with old friends

I mean that we have known Terry & Myra for a long time. They had sold their boat over a year ago and had just taken possession of a shorter boat. Met them on the way down the Braunston locks and celebrated in the Lord Nelson pub. Next day we all went early to Davetry intending to go on the bus. It passes at quarter to the hour but apparently not at quarter to nine. It had passed through at 8:30! Phoned for a taxi which arrived in 10 minutes but stopped just outside the town due to a puncture! We went off to join a queue at the medical centre for Ann's flu jab. Back out in 15 minutes all done. Got some veggies at the market and winter pansies before all returning on the 10:30 bus. Spent the next few days in each others boats and visiting Bob n Jane who we all knew.

Friends and Bloggers

When we were down the south Oxford canal between bridge 102 and 103 NB At - Last stopped by. John & Militza have been known to us since we first left our boat in 'Springwood Haven' on the Coventry canal. They, a young couple semi retired, came to see inside our boat. We talked about our adventures during the year over a cup of tea. They enjoy cycling and walking a lot. Their pride and joy, the boat, is powered by a 'Gardner' diesel. A slow running engine reconditioned by Tony & Paul Redshaw.

We had moved to just north of Braunston and were chatting to Sue on the net. She told us that NB Liberty Belle was heading our way and had been in conversation with Angela on board. Angela does a Blog which we read occasionally. Next day Trevor and Angela arrived and stopped just to meet us on their way to Braunston to get a job done on the boat.

Trafalgar

The Braunston Pickle are to play at the local pub. So we head back to Braunston. The pub is called 'Admiral Nelson'. Known locally as 'nelly'. We walked up past two locks on the Grand Union Canal and into the pub. There we were faced with a 'dressed up' interior. Signal flags all over the ceiling and the bar staff wearing eye patches and hats. A special brew was on offer called 'Eye Patch'. Ann had a rum & coke. The Braunston Pickle consisting of three players were setting up next to a table of locals dressed as wenches and crew. A tough looking gent complete with black beard, scars and scabbard was quite capable of repelling boarders.

We found a seat and table behind the fireplace wall and enjoyed the scene and atmosphere. The group started at about half eight. The pub was full of noisy people so later we moved round to hear the music. They were playing guitars, piano accordions and squeeze boxes without the aid of amplifiers. Many others joined in with penny whistles, tambourine and rattling spoons.

Braunston

We have settled in and around our 'home port' for a while. We need to return to the dentist next week and Ann can get a flu jab in November. So we drift off on the south Oxford canal and stop by Flecknoe Farm. There are still many boats coming and going. A few miles further on at Napton Junction a new marina has opened. 'Black Prince' hire boats are based there. Three other marinas within a mile of the junction already exist so that junction has become very busy at weekends in particular.

Discovered that 'Hobo' was here. Bob and Jane with their friend Rose from Australia. She has been over here for several years touring the country with her dog 'Tara' in her own boat. Then along came Barbara who plays the Accordion with a group called 'Braunston Pickle'. While I was painting the lower part of the boat Barbara started playing folk music. Rose normally plays a violin in an orchestra but was able to join in as well.

MV Sulaskar

Our grateful thanks to Stewart and Carole Sampson for NABO. They are currently on tour and were spotted going through Braunston.  As most boat owners know they represent the interests of boaters on canals and rivers.  Their boat is also used as a research vessel for the 'First Mate Guides'.

Maria Jessie

Passing through Braunston this time got these pictures.

Passing Bloggers

NB Maria Jessie and NB Moore2Life passed each other and exchanged greetings near Willoughby, just north of Braunston.  "Read your blog" we called, "Oh look Moore 2  Life" they replied.  Tis nice to meet bloggers for real, not just in 'hyper space'.

Have just added our pictures of Working Boats to our web site www.moore2life.co.uk

Two boats together

Well for a while we plan to travel together again, No Problem & Moore 2 Life. Sue and Vic want to get to Great Haywood and we have a dentist appointment back at Daventry. So at some point we will turn to return.

All set off after shopping up at Braunston, the butcher providing good meat, pies and veg. As usual. Eventually got to Hillmorton and enjoyed an excellent Sunday roast at the 'Lock Shop Bistro'. Sue and Vic had been looking forward to this treat for some time. Still many boats moving through the locks in October on a sunny Monday. Stopped at Brownsover near Rugby to shop at the 'out of town' centre and at Tesco before mooring for the night at Newbold.

Continuing north we then stop at Hawkesbury Junction. Where the Oxford and Coventry canal meet. Sue and Ann plus two dogs have been enjoying long walks together, sometimes returning just before dark. The fire is lit in the evenings now to keep the autumn chill out.

The half way point was reached at Hartshill. Turning here should give us time to get back to Braunston without rushing. Hopefully getting through Nuneaton with less bother. On the way through we passed some floating chairs and a settee! The propeller picked up a shopping bag complete with zip which took time to clear through the weed hatch. Last time through there was an upside down car with the police wondering if the driver was under water as well!

Friends

We had met several people on our travels this year and found that some of them had also 'returned' to Braunston. Dave and Georgina on 'Drift' came in for a coffee and chat. 'Rachael' was also seen having first met up at Bugsworth Basin, near Whaley Bridge. Next day we decided to move up the locks and through the tunnel and wait the arrival of our friends Vic and Sue on 'No Problem'. They are returning to BW waters and we met them half way up the Buckby flight. Plenty of space at Norton Jn. and we all went to the pub for a celebration drink. Next day we escorted them through Braunston Tunnel. Luckily for Sue no boats were coming the other way. This after all is not the easiest of tunnels to go through especially if you have not seen a tunnel for some time.

Return to boat

Three hours on the road got us all, including mum, back to the boat. The car hire company came and took the car away on a tow truck. After filling our tank with diesel at 55 pence a litre we were off to our first stop for the night just a mile away. The satellite signal provided a picture then later we converted the table into a bed for mum who had a comfortable night.

Next day we passed through Nuneaton where boaters were warning us about a car in the canal! Three policemen were seen by the upside down car with only the boot and two wheels showing. At this time they had no idea if a driver was inside! We continued on past well kept gardens before reaching Hawkesbury.

We all then walked to the junction where the Oxford Canal joins the Coventry. Watched as many boats made the turn and operated the lock on a warm sunny afternoon.

Grandchildren

Ben was christened at a church in the New Forest. A pleasant gathering at the church and in the hall after the event to see the family again after many months away. We were able to visit the children many times during our stay and took them both to the forest. Then it was Josh's birthday. We dressed up as Pirate Jim and Rosie Lee! All the children came as pirates with an assortment of swords dress and makeup. The village hall was filled with activities for the little pirates. A large rubber dingy and cardboard boxes provided the boats for them to 'capture'. They all just ran around letting off steam before sitting down at the table to eat sandwiches sausages and cake. Other organised games including 'pass the parcel' finished off the day.

Back to 'Rush About'

We left the boat at Springwood Haven and hired a car from Research Garage Group at Hinkley. They came to fetch us from the marina. The Peugeot 307 with 4 doors did us proud. A diesel doing 53 mpg. We were away for two weeks and did 780 miles in the car feeding it with about £80 of fuel. Car technology is taking over some functions that the driver does. The lights come on when driving through short tunnels or in the dark. Windows close and the mirrors fold in when the doors are locked! What it does not do is ensure you are not exceeding the speed limit. The traffic and navigating on the roads was difficult to get used to.

Gardening

We are doing our bit to cut down the towpath vegetation. British Waterways have a 'Veg Pledge' but are not keeping up with the rapid growth. So it seems that the only way to get off the boat and tie up without getting stung is to cut it back ourselves.

Painted roses

When we arrived at Hartshill we met Margery on 'Watermouse' who paints roses on canal ware.

We have had a water container called a Buckby Can for many years and it needed repainting. Some months earlier we had rubbed it down and applied several coats of paint. It is now the same colour as our boat. Margery spent several days covering it with roses and daises. Even the name of our boat is now painted on it.  All the daisies have a little red mark on them where the fairies have kissed them.

Atherstone locks

As we approached, a queue of boats formed to go up. There are 11 locks spread over 1 ½ miles. At the time no boats were coming down so every lock had to be emptied to go up. At about the half way point boats were coming down thus not wasting water. However one boat had stopped for lunch much to the annoyance to those coming up because the lock gate had been left open for them! Ideally a boat goes down with a lock full of water in to the next lock. The delay caused a queue of boats to form. There is really no advantage because each lock can only take one boat up or down. It's a bit like getting 'grid locked' in traffic on the roads. Thankfully there was enough water coming down to keep all the boats afloat in that short pound! We eventually got to the top in 4 hours and luckily it was a nice sunny day. When locking up or down you get to know many people.

A life saved

Ann went fishing and landed a wood pigeon. It was a young bird seen floating on the water with it's head on it's back. Dried it out in the sunshine on a nest of dry grass. Seemed to recover enough to crawl into the shade of the hedge for a while. Later getting up onto a fence where it stayed all night. It was still there in the morning rain preening itself and looking lively. Then after our breakfast it took off and flew away. We had been quite concerned then relieved when it went.

Fradley Junction

From Rugeley we passed Armitage through 2 miles of narrow canal with Ann walking up front with Molly looking out for approaching boats. There are passing places but caution is required due to many blind bends. Several boats managed to pass. Stopped at the end of the top lock landing before the junction for the night. Some boats were still coming up after 9pm that evening and the lock landing became full of moored boats.

Set off after breakfast and went down as boats had started coming up. Only 3 locks to the junction but many boats were queueing to come up. The junction by the Swan pub is always cluttered with boats waiting to go up the locks or just moored. Squeezed through and turned right on to the Coventry canal. After 5 miles going south we found a spot just north of Whittington to moor for a quiet weekend.

Later in the afternoon NB 'Maria Jessie' went by. Ann recognised it as one of the 'blog'er boats and chatted to them as they passed. They are on their way to the boat gathering at Preston Brook near the Manchester Ship canal. The work boats 'Nuneaton' and 'Brighton' passed by after getting stuck on a mud bank. I wonder how many more times they get stuck due to the lack of depth. These old boats were designed with a draught of 4 foot 3 inches when fully loaded.

August rush

We are being woken up in the early hours by moving boats. We stopped at Penkridge for lunch and several boats rushed past. Set off and joined the queue at the first of two locks. Much help provided by young energetic students from the boat behind. We had done our daily quota of 10 lock miles that day so tried to moor opposite the prefab houses but grounded on a mud bank. A local resident suggested moving back as it is always shallow there. 'So why don't BW dredge it' I wonder. There is only ½ mile to the next lock so the water level rose and fell many times that evening causing the boat to lean over.

Next day we got to Baswich, near Stafford and stopped again for lunch under the shade of a tree. It was another hot day. Then on later to Tixel wide and were very lucky to find a space. Unfortunately a tree prevented Sky reception.

We are in need of water so set off to fill up at the junction with the Trent & Mersey canal. Left early thinking of the many boats heading north to the Boat Festival but found the water point free. Ann went off to get the post while I got on with filling the tank. The two locks in and beyond Great Haywood were very busy with a queue of 4 boats going down. Counted 12 coming up at the next lock. The last in that queue would be waiting at least 2 hours to get through! We continued to the aqueduct over the river Trent just before Rugeley.

Passing through

We are moving south east down the almost strait and flat Shroppie. Only one lock at Wheaton Aston and 25 miles since the last back at Tyrley. There seems to be more boats gathering at Wheaton Aston. The local garage sells cheap diesel for boats and it takes an age to get past them all slowly as we do.

The boats are on both sides of the relatively wide canal and the owners on the 'private' side are busy constructing landing stages with their boats tied to the trees. Some of the boats are unkempt, covered in leaves and green with algae. Many with no name or licence displayed.

We turned left to go north on the Staffordshire & Worcestershire Canal. Soon passing through the 'narrows'. The canal here is a narrow channel cut into the rock base. Several passing places enabled at least 3 boats to pass as we went through.

Tyrley Locks and cutting

The locks south of town take the canal up a deep cutting through rocks. It would have been hard work chipping away all that rock with hammer and chisel back in 1846. The cutting is now covered with huge trees which are clinging to the rocky edge. The canal continues for two miles through a narrow tree covered cutting till it reaches Cheswardine. We continued to Shebdon Embankment where we met John & Jean on Omega. Next day we got to Gnosall in light drizzle. Had intended to go further but it remained damp most of the day.

Market Drayton

We approached from the north and stopped on the 5 day moorings before Lords Bridge. Don't quite understand why BW invite boaters to moor at 'Visitor Moorings' only to find they are not deep enough! Next day we walked into town to 'enjoy' the market day. Fruit and veg in abundance. Ann got a new bag.

Back at the boat we set about placing an order to Tesco on the net. The first thing you need is a local post code so we used Ted's Boat Yard which we happened to have. Then go to Street Map to find a suitable road for the delivery. Pity you then cannot find a more suitable post code. Our instructions for the driver enabled him to find us from Stoke on Trent without resorting to a phone call.

Our friends John & Sue invited us to their house for a cup of tea and a chat. They told us that 'Ted's Boat Yard is to close. Shame cos their diesel was only 38.5p! Apparently they cannot afford the rent since it has been increased. A café and canal ware shop has already left. There are plans for a new housing estate and a 'Boat Share' operation is moving in.

A Ghost ?

At the top of the Adderley Locks and past bridge 66 we entered Brownhills Wood. It was so thick the suns rays found their way past the branches producing an eerie feel. It felt cooler in the shade. A lonely fisherman sat there on the tow path. Ann and Molly passed by the man who spoke but she did not hear the words. Somebody was cutting the grass using a noisy machine. He was dressed in protective mask and goggles so all you could see was his glowing eyes. Which one was the ghost which is known to haunt these woods? As I passed the fisherman I asked if he had ever seen the ghost. I heard his reply as the grass cutter had passed on. "It's too noisy for ghosts" he said.

Barbridge Junction

Here the Middlewich branch ends at a 'T' junction with the Shropshire Union. Approaching slowly with Ann at the bow checking for boats. There are two at the water point on the left and two more passing them. One is trying to overtake and the other is wanting to turn into the branch where we are coming from. "Where are you going?" he asked gruffly. We had to come out of the narrow junction before they could go in. Ann pointed left and we slowly and carefully moved across their bow and Ann jumped off on the right bank. There is just enough room now to pass in silence. "It's the August rush hour"! So on to the Shroppie going slowly past moored boats with large gaps between them. We found a place to stop further on.

Barbridge Junction

Here the Midlewich branch ends at a 'T' junction with the Shropshire Union. Approaching slowly with Ann at the bow checking for boats. There are two at the water point on the left and two more passing them. One is trying to overtake and the other is wanting to turn into the branch where we are coming from. "Where are you going?" he asked gruffly. We had to come out of the narrow junction before they could go in. Ann pointed left and we slowly and carefully moved across their bow and Ann jumped off on the right bank. There is just enough room now to pass in silence. "It's the August rush hour"! So on to the Shroppie going slowly past moored boats with large gaps between them. We found a place to stop further on.

Boats and Moorings

There are people who invest their money in boats. New narrow boats are being produced at a high rate. The only problem is that the supply of moorings is not keeping up with the demand. BW and public enterprise are creating many new marinas but finding suitable places 'off the cut' and getting planning permission takes time. Some boaters are able to travel around the canal system and don't need a mooring.

There are also people looking for cheap second hand boats to live on. They cannot afford to buy a house these days. BW and private land owners provide moorings 'on the cut'. Some boats taking up space on the canal don’t display a licence. BW are not really doing enough to control this growing situation.

Locking down

Back on the Macclesfield canal we stopped at High Lane. Shops and a surgery are here so we booked in as 'Temporary Patients' and got checked over. We are ok with the treatment we are getting so on we go feeling good. So on then to Gurnett for the night. Then after getting filled up with water went down the 12 locks at Bosley. It is getting busy now with at least 10 boats coming up so most locks were ready for us with a boat coming out. Grand views across the valley as we leave the foothills of the Pennines.

After a night at the lower level we continued to the end of the Macclesfield and stopped in the rusty red water of the Trent and Mersey. Now a long stretch with loads of locks between Stoke on Trent and Middlewich with 32 locks in 12 miles. There are several small places to pick up supplies on the way down. Still busy with boaters coming up and helping at the locks. These are single locks which come in pairs. But often one of the pair has been left derelict. Some of the lock gates have been repainted but others have been put out of use. It seems that BW are not spending our money effectively.

A hold up

So after a few days enjoying the scene in Derbyshire we left. Further on a man ran round a bent waving frantically. "Stop here, there's a tree down". Sure enough just round the bend was a queue of 4 boats. Two lovely huge willows had fallen across the canal and the branches were blocking the tow path as well. A 'Black Prince' hire boat was first in line and had called BW. They had also rang the hire company to say they may be back late. They only had 2 days to get back to Stoke on Trent, a full 48 lock miles away. We enjoy travelling at about 10 lock miles a day. So they are pushing it. The canals are better seen at the slower pace. The men from BW had cleared enough to pass by late afternoon and all the boats moved off very quickly. We stayed the night.

Peak Forest Canal

Moved on slowly through the county of Cheshire for a few miles to reach Marple. Now we are in Derbyshire, and join the Peak Forest Canal. Turn south east and follow the River Goyt with it's wonderful views across the valley. After lifting and swinging several bridges we reach Bugsworth Basin. Now full of water after British Waterways found a leak and made it all water tight.

Here we met Mike & Liz again.  This time we offered a cupper on our boat.

Bugsworth Basin is a scheduled ancient monument. An industrial archaeological site.  The site comprising several basins and arms was opened in 1776. Lime stone was bought down from the Peak District and burnt in several kilns here. By the 1880's the industry had grown into a major complex of basins, arms and wharfs and become one of the largest and busiest inland ports in this country. Coal was bought in and lime taken out in narrow boats down the Peak Forest Canal.

Now it is a wonderful site for boats to moor and boaters to enjoy the view. The stone bridges, walls and old rail sleepers providing interest.  By the time we left there were at least 20 boats here.

The Macclesfield

It was back in 2002 that we first came up this canal and we had forgotten how pretty it was. The Cheshire country side is all hills and valleys. Providing grand views as the canal crosses a valley. The bridges are all made of large blocks of stone as are the 12 locks at Bosley. Much of the canal is lined with trees. Having got up the locks we are now 518 feet above sea level. We passed the old Hovis mill at Macclesfield and got to Fourlane Ends.

Here we met a couple who live on their boat and had got in touch through the internet. "Now I know you are not supposed to meet people on the internet but Mike & Liz are OK". They have a boat called 'Snecklifter' and two dogs. One is a Jack Russell called Molly! The two Mollies got on so well together that they both disappeared in to 'Snecklifter'. We were given a cup of tea and later went to the local pub. It is great when you meet such friendly boaters. By the weekend we had moved on a few miles to Higher Pointon. A marina and a mile of moored boats line the canal. We stay here for a quiet but damp weekend.

Clarence Mill.

Low Bridges then a Tunnel

Low bridges, bone & flint

Two very low bridges were scraped under, "mind your head", to reach the locks taking us down to the end of the Caldon Canal.  The flowers kept their heads!

We looked round the Bone & Flint Mill Museum. Built for Jesse Shirley in 1857 to supply ground bone and flint for the pottery industry. The mill at Cheddleton was water powered but here a beam steam engine provides the power. Fred Dibner opened the museum some time ago. A modern factory took over the grinding in 1972.

To the tunnel

Set off next day and stopped at Westport Lake Park where super new mooring were inviting. Took a good walk round the huge lake which had plenty of wild birds to see. Picked up broken crockery like shells on the sea shore!

Not far to Harecastle tunnel where we had just missed an opening. An hour later we were the first and only boat to go north through the 2 mile (2926yards) tunnel. The canal water turned red from the iron deposits underground. We could see the other end as the doors closed behind us and huge fans blew air through. The noisy wind caused a fine mist to form and it was like going through a fog in a black hole. The old tunnel had sunk in the middle so head clearance was limited. Out the other end into the sunshine again. Not nearly so bad as we had imagined. Boats only go through one way at a time under the strict control of a 'Tunnel keeper' at each end. After scraping under those very low bridges on the Caldon Canal this was easy.

British Waterways Licence Increase

We have news that BW are proposing to increase our licence by 140%. A protest campaign is underway. Over a thousand boaters will be affected by this unwelcome news.

Back up,Tesco & Fine Feathers

We are heading back up out of the Churnet valley past the lime kilns at Consall Forge having carefully negotiated the low bridge by the railway station. Many people watching from the pub on the hill. Up through 2 locks at Cheddleton and stop by the old flint mill where James Brindley may have served as a Mill Wright.

Continue through the widening valley, under Hazelhurst Aqueduct where the Leek branch goes over, and up 3 locks to reach the summit again. The flat plain as we approach Endon a sharp contrast to the deep valley.

Stopped at Park Lane Bridge and placed our order to TESCO through the internet. The phone signal now being strong and reliable. Next day the van arrived and we were fully stocked up again.

That evening we had another of those 'all day breakfasts' at Fine Feathers. Got some more gas as well. Caldon Chandlery operates there and got me a new oil filter which is correct for my engine. It was different to the one fitted when the first service was carried out at Willow Wren in Rugby.

Remoteness

Down at Consall Forge we are on the river Churnet between two locks. Now out of touch as the phones, TV and radio, except Classic FM which has never let us down, could not find a signal. We are surrounded by trees in this lovely valley.

The canal turned into a one way street past the station which overhangs the water. Ann walks ahead with Molly to warn me of on coming boats. It is just possible to pass if the trees and bushes are not too thick. Down the lock and eventually reach Froghall moorings and turn.

Just round the corner a very low tunnel prevents most boats reaching the brand new facilities and empty basin. We asked about local shops but there are none. So we have discovered this canal. It proved to be quiet and peaceful and we had come prepared with a full fridge and well stocked up with food. Thankfully our tank of diesel is nowhere near empty but one bottle of gas is!

Leek Branch

Continued round onto the Leek Branch and stopped with 2 other boats at the Hazelhurst aqueduct. This canal crosses a narrow valley with a railway and the Caldon Canal passing under it.

Next day got away first and arrived at the end near Leek. Lucky to find a space as several boats were here already. The scenery was dramatic with the short winding canal clinging to the hillside through woods and past fields with stone walls. Then through a short stone tunnel to reach the end. We walked in the cool drizzle along the feeder that brings water down from Rudyard Lake.

Still Water Cottages

Caldon Canal

Turned sharp right onto the Caldon Canal at Etruria. This canal was built in 1779 to bring limestone and coal down to the potteries. It climes up through 9 locks to reach 484 ft. above sea level at Stockton Brook. At Hazelhurst it goes down through 8 locks for 6 miles to reach Froghall. The navigable canal is now 15 ½ miles but a further 15 miles to Uttoxeter was replaced by a railway in 1845. A branch joins the canal at Hazelhurst and continues at the same level to Leek where it picks up water from the Rudyard reservoir. The entire canal became un navigable by the early 1960's. Two new road bridges were build so low as to force us to stop and remove every thing off the roof again. Another new bridge further on had been built with sufficient clearance, presumably since the canal was reopened.

The Josiah Wedgwood Experience

We moored by bridge 104 on the Trent & Mersey and walked to the Visitor Centre and factory complex near Barlaston. When we left we had learnt and seen a lot about making artistic pottery. Back in the 1930's the old factory at Stoke on Trent was being undermined by the coal industry and eventually flooded by the canal. This new factory started production in 1940. We watched as girls applied white relief to blue jugs, automatic robot arms sticking handles to mugs and lumps of clay being transformed into plates by machine.

Josiah was apprenticed to a potter and he became an outstanding scientist, artist and engineer. He invented many revolutionary processes. One was to accurately measure the very high temperatures in the ovens. After many experiments he created green glaze. His creamware was later called Queen's Ware after he sold a full service to Catherine 11 of Russia in 1773. He also encouraged the building of canals which he used to great advantage.

Holiday Traffic

The canals were not built for fast motorised boats and is suffering from wash damage. Some holiday makers are showing a lack of respect these days. "We are on holiday so must drink as much as possible and get as far as possible". They seem to rush along even when passing moored boats. Presumably have not experienced mooring pins being pulled out or had their boat lurch backwards and forwards when a fast boat passes them.

Progress

Having got our order back at Tamworth we are now heading north again. Each year requires a general plan to explore favourite canals and discover new ones. We want to get through Stoke on Trent to turn off on to the Caldon Canal. Many boaters have encouraged us to go see it. It is only 15 miles long to Froghall but there are 17 locks. The summit being 484 feet above sea level.

Commercial traffic

The government have suggested that the waterways should become more commercial. Some of the wide canals & rivers may be able to cope but the lack of investment since the railways 'took over' means that it will take a long time to achieve. Perhaps the railways should take more. The commercial boats are much deeper in the water than the average pleasure boat. So the much needed dredging will have to be addressed.

The canals are increasingly being used for recreation these days by many user groups such as bikers, walkers, fisher men and boaters. It is a 'natural' environment now and is very relaxing for hard working people to enjoy. Commercialisation will destroy all this.

One way Street

The length of Coventry canal between Rugeley and Handacre is mainly narrow and slow going. Some parts are only wide enough for one boat. Thankfully we did not meet another head on which is surprising because we met one at most bridges. Apart from trees and bushes creating blind spots many of the new road bridges have been built at an angle to the canal so they too have created permanent blind spots. British Waterways are attempting to cut back the trees and bushes but still have a lot to do.

More pictures on our WEB

Spot the changes.

New item now available; wild life pictures.

More canal pictures.  Now 18 canals to see.

The book 'Life With A Narrowboat' now up to 9 chapters.

Click on www.moore2life.co.uk

Stone turn round

Despite an early shower we set off for Stone a few miles and locks further north west. The rain had stopped when we saw a boat ahead stuck in the shallows. Suggested he reverse off but he did not go far enough and got stuck again. We tried to pull the boat back with a rope but in the end managed to pull the bow off sideways. Stone was full of long term moorings two years ago. Now there are visitor moorings above and below the locks so we were able to explore the towns shops. A boat yard however still fully occupies the mooring in the centre but it does have a good chandlery.

We have decided to turn round here because an order placed at Tamworth needs to be collected soon. We had to go up 3 locks and a mile out of town to a new turning point further away than expected. Many smart new houses at the northern end of town and some good moorings past the boatyard and Stone Brewery. All 3 locks are at least 10 feet deep with a queue of boats waiting. It is Friday and the holiday boaters are in a hurry to return to base. Have not known a day like it. Started off in light drizzle, then hot sunshine, then a very heavy down pour followed by sunshine again. We put on our waterproofs but the holiday boaters remained in shorts and sandals! Eventually found a quiet spot 2 miles out of town having done 4 miles and 8 locks.

Green Life

What chance for the green world? When we started camping under canvas it was the minimal way of life which made it different. Boating is a few steps in that direction, we have survived and enjoy life. Seems that others are not accepting 'less than' when on holiday. The canals are filling up with moving boats as the days get warmer. Problem is that they rush about and require lots of power to exist. Engines are being run 'out of hours' which is unsociable. It is no wonder that mooring near houses are becoming restricted.

Web site

I have now created a web site called www.moore2life.co.uk .  Please have a look.  Just click on the link on the right.  The site has many pictures of the canals we have explored since 2000.  I am still in the process of adding more pictures and intend to expand content to include useful information about living on a narrowboat.

Moorings and Tesco

On down the locks at Hillmorton. The cafe / bistro here is worth a visit. Next stop, Clifton. Were lucky to find our mooring where we are protected by bushes and trees from the golf course. Saw the fox in the field opposite again. Together with long horn cattle and rabbits. Molly had the stitches removed at the local vet. Some boaters are passing too fast, a growing problem in the 'moving' season. Sadly the poor little ducklings and baby moor hens are getting swamped by the wash. Ann was upset to see several dead chicks in the water.

Ansty

Moved on to Brownsover, the Rugby mooring. We had successfully managed to place an order with TESCO using the Net, saving us having to carry all the heavy goods ourselves. The driver found us and was very willing to bring the order to the boat. Despite the fact that his van was too tall to clear the barrier into the car park.  Then moved on up to Ansty for the night.

Shallow waters

Shallow waters

There are 10 miles of level water between Claydon and Marston Doles on the Oxford Canal. But there is only 5 miles between the two places! Such is the way it follows the contours with many bends and turns. It is very shallow making the boat slow and unresponsive. The water is always brown with churned up sediment. This is the summit level and I wonder where all the water is coming from. We had passed the reservoir but no water was being fed from it.

Stopped near Nimrod Bridge 108 and fed the baby ducks.

Banbury Cross

Back at Banbury we took Molly to the Vet to be spayed. A 20 minute walk across town past the famous cross and a statue of the 'fine lady' on a horse. We were amused to see a small frog sitting there by the horses hoof. The original cross was removed in 1602 and replaced in the 19^th century.

Ride a cock horse to Banbury Cross,

To meet a fine lady on a white horse,

With rings on her fingers and bells on her toes,

She shall have music where ever she goes.

Next day we collected Molly and managed to carry her back to the boat. Resting at the Cross and admiring the rather fine statue of that horse. Molly spent a quiet day in her bed. Then we went back to have her checked and the plaster dressing removed. Have arranged to remove the stitches at the Rugby vet.  Meanwhile she is quite wound up with restricted exercise.

Help needed ashore

We stopped at Cropredy, north of Banbury and celebrated Ann's birthday at the Brassenose Arms. The only Pub in Britain with that name. (I'm not surprised). We were half way between Cropredy and Banbury when we got the news about Tracy. Her leg had swollen up due to a burst cyst in her left knee. They need help because Tracy is to rest and cannot walk without crutches.  Our two young grandchildren need our help.

Luckily we could hire a car from 'Enterprise' at Banbury and drive one way home leaving it at a local office.  But first find somewhere to leave the boat in a safe place. We got some diesel at Sovereign Boats who suggested leaving it opposite where they could keep an eye on it. But it was only a 48 hour mooring and BW told us we could not leave it there. Had to go on through the town past the lock and under the bridge. The 14 day moorings there are too public and considered insecure. So on a bit further to a quiet mooring where there are at least some other boats.

'Enterprise' collected us and took us to their office where we got the car. Back at the boat we transferred our luggage and the animals before driving home. Decided to stay with relatives so we were only 20 minutes walk from Tracy, Chris and their children. After breakfast we walked there before half past eight! Later we borrowed mum's car. Spent 10 days getting to know Ben and enjoying some quality time with Josh.

Tracy's leg was getting much better with the use of an ice pack but she was still on crutches when we had to return. Our mooring on the canal is limited to 14 days. Thankfully a friend reported that the boat was OK and he had checked the mooring pins for us as he was passing. Hired another car from 'Enterprise' and returned to Banbury. Got back to find the boat just as we had left it.

Government support

We are cheered by the news that the government has reinstated the grant to BW which was 'lost' last year. This had caused BW to drastically cut back on staff resulting in low morale and an uncertain future. During the election campaign it has been revealed that some MP's have a poor regard of the canal system and it's users and even think it is in decline! How wrong can they be? You have only to read Boating magazines to see how many restorations, improvements and marina's have happened in recent years. The 'opposition' party have plans to sell off BW owned property to pay for a reduction in civil servants. They had previously praised BW for investing in property to increase income. BW get £25 m from this investment so the grant would have to be increased by this amount if the government intend to keep the canals open.

Nesting and a mouse

While at Marston Doles Ann has been watching two Moor Hens helping each other hatch eggs on their nest. They swap over several times during the day. The one in the water is looking for food to give to the bird on the nest. The nest has been built on thin branches and reeds about 2 feet above the water. Passing boats make waves but the nest is OK.

Moved on to Bridge 130 where that mast is. Molly was very interested in her bag of dried food out front. Ann put her hand in to get a titbit for the dog. There inside was a field mouse! Do hope it is the only stowaway and has not been there too long! The mouse was released into the hedge and disappeared.

Braunston Blacking

Before leaving for our winter trip to London and back we had booked a 'slipping' at Braunston Boats by the bottom lock. On our return we asked about when to bring the boat up. As the forecast was rain on Monday and the slip was empty the boat was pulled out a day early. A tractor and trolley did the job as we watched from shore. Inside the TV had been put safely on the bed and other items put on the floor. The bottom of the boat is normally 2 feet under the water but now it is almost that far above ground ! The great advantage here is that we are provided with a platform and steps to get on and off the boat. It was strange being on at boat which did not sway. It just bounced slightly in the middle !

By the end of the day the sides had been pressure washed and one coat of bitumen applied. Much of the original blacking came off in the wash as it had been applied on loose mill scale. This being a new boat and the first time out of water since the survey a year ago. The next day Justin painted the second coat and a day later we were back in the water.

Easter Holiday

Have moved up to the Northampton Arm where we said good by to our friends on No Problem. They are heading down the hill past Northampton and on to the River Nene. We have spent Easter at the top and will head on to Braunston later. Getting on with building two small cupboards in the galley.

When we left to get water at Gayton Junction there were frequent boats passing on the Grand Union Canal. The 2 week holiday has been a popular time for the hire boaters despite the early date. The mild weather has bought them out. There are no locks for 10 miles to Whilton. On the way is one of our favourite villages, Bugbrooke. There, a Millennium Garden is worth a look on the way to the shop.

Got our diesel at Whilton Marina despite the high price of 45p/litre. Would have waited to get it from Ivor on his boat at Braunston but a boater told us he had gone up to Rugby.

We waited in the lock for another boat seen approaching. There are 7 locks to do and it helps if you go up in pairs with the extra crew. It is much quicker and it saves water. On our way up we wondered why several hire boaters came down one by one within sight of each other. Must like hard work? Next day we moved through the tunnel and down to Braunston.  Saw that Ivor was charging 42p/litre.

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