End of navigation ?

Moved on to Bedford to try and get to the 'end of navigation' on the river.

This stopped us getting to the 'official' end of navigation.

But after squeezing under several very low bridges we turned round at the last lock in Bedford and stayed a night in the Marina. Free for GOBA members. One day it is planed to 'cut' a new canal to link Bedford and Milton Keynes. Would have been useful to go that way to join the Grand Union canal. But we will have to turn here and 'explore', on our way back, the rivers Ouse and Nene.

Had to remove items off the roof to get under this. 

Evening cruise

There is about 2 miles of tidal waters where the New Bedford River comes in from King's Lynn. Many of the major rivers in this area no longer follow their natural path. In order to drain the land and maintain river levels many locks, weirs and 'drains' have been created over the centuries. We did not see the seals which are known to live this far from the sea. We passed through St. Ives to stop at the moorings and did some shopping in the town. After a refreshing drink at the local pub by the waterside we continued our journey up river. It had been hot again during the day so a cool evening trip was in order. Heading west towards the setting sun made for tricky navigation. Several people and small boats in the water were difficult to see. Passed through several locks wide enough for both boats and once joined by another small boat. Finally arriving at Godmanchester as the sun went down. A lovely mooring by a park with trees.

Apologies to our readers for the lack of 'postings'.  We have reached Great Barford.

Really is too HOT

Over 30 inside and out most of the day, often nearer 40 ! While moving we use an umbrella for shade. Apparently it had been this hot back in 1911 ! "I suppose these hot summers are due to become more frequent". The biggest problem has been keeping the inside cool. The best we can do is to hang white cloth outside the windows. Occasionally using a fan to keep the fridge cool. The mains inverter has been getting hot so have not been using the TV much or the computer. Much cooler in the evening so we are sitting outside. Tables, chairs, parasols, candles in buckets, an alcoholic beverage and an occasional BBQ make for enjoyable evenings.

Wicken Sedge Fen

To get there we travelled up the Great Ouse from Ely and turned left on to the River Cam. A few miles further, left again and through a lock at Upware. Another left turn and we were on the Wicken Lode. (Lode is a medieval word for waterway or canal).

 This Lode is very narrow and just navigable. A deep narrow cutting lined with reed and lily pads with flowers in full bloom.

The National Trust look after these wetlands and trying to expand them.

The last surviving drainage wind mill is now used in reverse to maintain the wetlands here.

ELY (Eel Island)

Moved on to the Great Ouse to the next EA moorings where picnic tables and facilities were available for the travellers on the A10 road as well as for us boaters. As we approached the city we saw the cathedral on the hill. Wow what an impressive building. Luckily found a mooring near the Maltings. Boats were rather spread out by the park preventing us from stopping there on the way in. The mooring is very public but was quiet at night. Many ducks and geese sleep on the grass near by were chased off by a dog late one night creating a lot of noise.

Ely is a historic city with many old and beautiful buildings. At one time an island surrounded by sea and marsh lands. The main shopping centre is up the hill past the cathedral. Many useful shops are here but more like a town than a city.

The cathedral was founded as a monastery and suffered much damage by Henry VIII during the Dissolution and by the hand of Oliver Cromwell who lived in Ely for 10 years. Most of the statues had their heads chiselled off and much of the ornate stone decoration has been severely damaged. The huge Lady Chapel had all the stain glass windows broken so it is now very bright with the plain glass. A modern statue of Mary dressed in bright blue stands above the alter.

Great Ouse & Little Ouse

After that long day we opted for a short trip to Hilgay Bridge on the Great Ouse where we found an excellent mooring provided by EA. Complete with water tap and a bench seat. After getting water we moved back and tied the bow to the end bollard with the stern in the bushes. This enabled No Problem to move away from the water point. That evening a 'plastic' cruiser arrived and stayed the night. Next day another Narrowboat turned up for water so NP came along side us to make room.

We both set off 2 miles up stream to turn off on to the Little Ouse by the 'Ship Inn'. Heading for Brandon up 'Brandon Creek' as the L. O. is otherwise known. Passed a few assorted boats along this waterway lined with trees. Became aware of the high flood banks either side which protect the low lying farm lands. Eventually found the GOBA mooring about half way along at 7 miles in. Another patch of mowed grass but not so deep at the edge so we used our long plank this time. Saw a single black swan on our way down.

Went on up stream weaving past the weed to the moorings by the short lock at Brandon. Seems only little boats will be able to venture further. We went on foot to the busy town with plenty of useful shops. That evening a gathering of youngsters with plenty of drink made us think twice about staying the night. The cruise back to the quiet GOBA mooring was quite enjoyable as the sun went down. Next day we continued down stream to the 'Ship Inn' for a marvellous meal.

The tidal trip

On a very hot Sunday we watched the tide come up and the locks were opened. No Problem went in first then us. But NP stopped on a sand bank and slid back into the lock. So we waited, with the lock gates closed behind, for the tide to rise some more, then we were off.

 Out into the rising tide flow getting swung round up stream passing two boats coming down from the Denver Sluce. We travelled up on the right then cut across the tide to the lock on the left. Full power to avoid the sand bank as we slid sideways. Then suddenly we were in calm waters as we entered the lock alongside No Problem. The gate closed behind us and we rose up to the river level. The top gate opened and we moved out onto the River Great Ouse found moorings and relaxed over a sandwich lunch.

Great Ouse & Wissey

The Great River Ouse goes all the way to Bedford. There are four rivers which join the Ouse from the east. Like the Thames the rivers pass through private land so we have joined the Great Ouse Boating Association which rent land and mow it to provide moorings. The first of these is down the River Wissey. Turn left at the next junction pass under the rail bridge and soon found the first mooring. Long enough for both our boats and the two 'plastic' cruisers that were there. The owner of one of them came over and introduced himself as the mooring officer who had just mowed the grass. It was a very hot day and one small willow tree provided some welcome shade. We set up our table and chairs on top of the flood bank and enjoyed Ann's meal together with Sue n Vic.

Next day we travelled down to the facilities at Hilgay. Several boats were there and we were able to stop at the meadow. Used the facilities but were unable to get water. Many different varieties of water birds have been seen on the rivers so far like cormorants, grebe, swans and geese. At one time we even spotted a family of Pink Footed Geese. But then we passed through a swarm of 'orible flies which bit as we passed the smelly sugar beet factory. The river opened up into a lake before narrowing down to wards Whittington where we found a 'free for an hour' mooring'. As the GOBA mooring no longer existed we decided to return hoping to stop at Hilgay but even more boats were there and people were jumping off the bridge and swimming in the river. We slowed down and carefully passed them. After what seemed a long day we were pleased to stop again at the GOBA moorings near Wissey Bridge.

Crossing the tide

Salters Lode

We have got to the end of the Middle Level Route and stopped at the tide lock. It is here that we join the Great River Ouse but we have to wait for the tide to rise. Within a square mile there are four locks or sluces to control flooding from the river which goes out to sea at King's Lynn. A number of manmade relief channels make the area looks like 'spaghetti junction'. Denver Sluce is part of the finest flood defence and land drainage systems in the country.

Navigation?

While we waited a historic event occurred. A small boat was permitted to navigate down the Old Bedford River. The owners of the boat had been requesting permission for many years. The previous attempt was back in 2004. The Inland Waterways Association was there to witness the attempt. We had arrived just in time to see it ourselves. The boat was seen on the tidal river outside the access lock. When the tide level was right the lock was opened and the boat went through. But the Old Bedford River was so badly silted up the boat could go no further. In fact two little girls were seen walking ankle deep across the river! Luckily the boat was able to turn round and escape back into the Middle Level before the tide went back out. The Environment Agency will surely be asked to dredge that river.

The tidal trip

On a very hot Sunday we watched the tide come up and the locks were opened. No Problem went in first then us. But NP stopped on a sand bank and slid back into the lock. So we waited, with the lock gates closed behind, for the tide to rise some more, then we were off. Out into the rising tide flow getting swung round up stream passing two boats coming down from the Denver Sluce. We travelled up on the right then cut across the tide to the lock on the left. Full power to avoid the sand bank as we slid sideways. Then suddenly we were in calm waters as we entered the lock alongside No Problem. The gate closed behind us and we rose up to the river level. The top gate opened and we moved out onto the River Great Ouse found moorings and relaxed over a sandwich lunch.

Four red roses

We were at March on our 40^th wedding anniversary. Travelling through the Fenlands near Peterborough with our friends Sue & Vic. Found four red roses for Ann to represent 40 years of happiness together.  Presented them to her in the town and gave her a public kiss!

We then moved the boats on to Upwell along the Middle Level Route during a hot sunny day. Then in the evening our friends joined us for a celebration meal in the restaurant at the 'Five Bells'.

Alien wildlife

Ann watched as a Moorhen raised her 3 chicks. They ran on the lily pads and splashed around for a few days looking for food. Then Ann saw a Mink prowling in the reeds. Soon the chicks were no more. Could do nothing to prevent it. The natural balance of wild life will change with the environment and climate. But man's interference has changed the balance unnaturally. Many 'introduced' animals will take over like the Grey Squirrel, Mink and even rabbits have done. Exotic pets are finding their way into the countryside. Rules and regulation will not stop the 'invasion'. Many of our familiar animals and birds are disappearing.

Well this swan seems to be very angry about something!

Ratty Island

Moved on to Elton after filling up with water. Desperately low this time after using the washing machine and several showers during that hot weekend. Only one lock and two miles so Sue & Vic can take Lucy to the vet at Peterborough on the bus. During the afternoon we all walked round the lovely village of Elton. Almost all thatched cottages with gardens to match. An unspoilt English village at its best.

Kenneth Graham (Wind in the Willows) stayed here during the summer months. One of the islands in the river is called Ratty Island.

Fotheringhay

We arrived here and moored at the castle mound. A local farmer owns the site and charged us to stay. The castle is no more than a hill with the remains of a moat round it. It was originally built in 1100 by the first Earl of Northampton. Richard 3^rd. was born here in 1451, made himself king in 1483 but was killed in battle at Bosworth in 1485. When the Queen of Scots abdicated she was incarcerated here in 1567 and had planted Scottish Thistles which are still here! She was seen as the figurehead of the for English Catholics and executed here by Queen Elizabeth 1^st in 1587.

Keep Britain Tidy ?

We had enjoyed a very hot weekend when many boaters were out and about. There were BBQ's, children in small boats, and swimming in the river. The countryside and nature provide a place to relax and usually keeps itself clean. BUT after the 'invasion' we were upset to find so much left behind. Bags of rubbish and BBQ trays thrown into the bushes. A black burnt patch where the BBQ lay on the grass and uneaten crusts of bread left for the dogs to find. The Environment Agency don’t seem to provide any means of proper disposal.

Having picked up the rubbish we took it into town to 'loose' it in the street bins. Only to be told that the bins were not for 'household' rubbish!!

Back to Oundle

Another sunny day to enjoy a picnic on the tables provided before moving on. Our boats were tied together back to front as we manoeuvred out round into the river Nene. Then separated to go through the narrow arch of the '9 arch bridge' and on to Islip Lock. "Enjoy the global warming while you can" I called to Skipper and Crew of a boat just exiting the lock. Many Damsel flies about looking for a mate.

Passed under those low bridges again and Titchmarsh Lock stopping short of Wadenhoe at a grassy edge as other boats were seen occupying moorings at Wadenhoe. Not much shade here so moved through another 4 locks to Ashton the next day. A wonderful mooring just round the corner from the lock on a byway where the river passes the lock and falls down a weir. Many different trees providing shade during several days of a heat wave. A light fresh breeze keeping us all cool inside and out of the boat. Very popular with seven or eight boats coming and going each day. Got our post at Oundle and stayed to enjoy the weekend with football and F1 racing to watch.

Sweltering heat

Another day of wall to wall sunshine. Temperatures in the 30's. The willow trees have been producing a lot of seed which float down like fluffy snow and the boats are getting covered. A lot of spiders have been making their webs which have captured the seed as well as flies. Tables, chairs and sun brollies have been out on the grass for several days. Sitting out for an hour or so, especially in the afternoon or evening when the sun has gone behind the trees.

Return to Thrapston

For two reasons: Lucy needs a check up by the vet and we like the town and its mooring with water tap.

Lucy is doing well but her leg needs some exercise now. Short walks but not swimming yet. For ten days it has not been used much because Lucy has been confined to 'cage rest'. The hip joint should be ok now much to the relief of Sue & Vic who have both been very anxious. A pin and the stitches will stay in for now.

The trip up stream took about 5 hours going through several locks. A different procedure as they are always left open. So go into the safety of the lock first, lower the guillotine behind and wait for the overflowing river to fill the lock, move out and lift the guillotine. We passed at least eight boats going down stream. The Tesco order duly arrived on time this time by the friendly helpful lady Sue n Vic met last year. All this during a dry sunny day which turned cool in the evening.

Summer time

A Marina !

Left Wadenhoe continuing downstream through the lock. This one is hand operated but like several others is being electrified. A few boats seen on this trip to Oundle. On the way we called in to Oundle Marina, the first major marina seen since getting on this river. Both our boats need diesel and were charged 59p a litre for it. We also got a new starter battery as ours had failed a few days ago. Managed to start the engine using the domestic battery bank and Vic's jump lead. Then moved on to Ashton Lock where several other boats were already at the moorings, including Moore To Life. A Spotted Woodpecker, several Grebe, Greylag Geese with chicks, a few Heron and some Swans were seen while moving on this river Nene.

Oundle

Walked into Oundel with Ann n Sue across the river along a path through fields and past well kept gardens. Most buildings are of the local Jurassic limestone which stretches from Dorset through the Cotswolds to Yorkshire. "They did remind me of Dorset which my parents loved".

Oundle is an old market town and now holds a 'farmers market' once a month. We found a café called 'Beans' and sat outside in the shade consuming tea and toasted tea cakes while watching the world go by. Then visited the butcher and Co-Op before returning to the boat.

It's officially summer with a 'high' and calm sunny hot days. Next day Ann Vic and I walked into Ashton. Across a field past the mill and into the village with its old thatched cottages built of stone. Looking for the Peacocks, originally introduced by the Rothschild's who owned the estate.

Flood water has gone down

While at Thrapston a man from Anglia Water came to check the river level. It had been going up and down about 6 inches the previous day as the Environment Agency let flood water down river to the sea.

We have moved on from Thrapston, down stream through Islip Lock and under several low bridges with just over 2M clearance. We had of course removed items from the roof and hoped that the water level had gone down enough.

Past Titchmarsh nature reserve and promised ourselves to stop there on the way back. Through the lock and past the old mill heading for Wadenhoe during a lovely sunny but windy day. Found a good mooring just off the river in the mill race. There are several picnic tables, Ash and Willow trees and the grass has been cut! Just a short walk up to the end of the village street with thatched cottages either side.

A little irony

Lucy is getting better and needs to be collected from the vet at Peterborough. A bus from Thrapston is quickest. It is raining and the river is rising but 'needs must' and we prepare to move down. Just then a boat passes and takes the lock! We only see one boat a day, normally! Got into the lock eventually and raised the guillotine. The river is so high that we have to remove items off the roof to get out. The river seems calm enough but the boats are moving fast down stream. Slipping sideways round the bends and past a few bridges. One is a bit narrow and we just made it, with a glancing blow. Got round to the left off the main stream into a safe Visitor Mooring by Thrapston Bridge. The girls rush off to catch the bus. Then we see the notice. Strong stream, do not move! Elsewhere in the country several counties are issuing drought restrictions due to lack of rain!

Lucy has been returned to her boat and family and is recovering quietly.

We are back

Yes, been away, five days off the boat. Got back to a great welcome on board No Problem with food n wine after our journey. We went to look after our two grand children while their parents were on holiday. Several days of rain has caused the river to rise and flow fast. Our two boats are safe in the approach to the lock with the river passing round behind over a weir and bypassing the lock. While we were away the Environment Agency lock keepers came to advise Sue n Vic not to move the boats. We were happy to stay a while to recover from our trip! A Tesco order placed on the net duly arrived a few days later. Just got to be careful with the use of our water and diesel while we wait. Several boats have made it going up river.

LUCY

Sadly our friends lovely dog Lucy has been taken to the vet in Peterborough for an operation. She had hurt her leg badly while on a walk and we are all missing her.

Sorry, no pictures

My pictures are stored on another 'server'. Unfortunately it crashed and lost them.  There was no back up.  I will have to upload them at some point. 'Normal service will resume as soon as possible'.

Thrapston history

On the west wall of the 13^th century St. James' church is a tablet depicting the crest of Sir John Washington (Stars and Stripes). He was a former lord of the manor of Thrapston and died in 1668 and was the ancestor of the more famous George Washington. The family crest formed the basis for the flag of the United States of America a century later. When we arrived here we walked to the church but there was no tablet outside and sadly the church was locked so could not get inside to see.

District of Columbia flag.  Is this similar to the family Crest?

It is here at Thrapston that the pronunciation of the river changes. From it's source it is 'NEN'. Then from here to it's outfall it is the 'NENE'.

Little Irchester

We left our mooring early with a long trip planned. Heading first to Little Irchester to shop at Tesco. This time a real place full of people pushing trolleys just like we were. The river passes through parkland with rows of trees for the public to enjoy.

Then through more locks to Rushden & Diamonds Football Ground where facilities are available. Chris on Moore To Life stayed here on the visitor moorings but we continued on to moor before Upper Ringstead Lock. Five locks and ten miles done in five hours today. Stayed here for the weekend against a grassy bank to climb out on. A lake nearby is full of fish and many fishermen are camping out.

To Great Deddington

Vic walked on to 'set up the lock' at Cogenhoe. He called on the walky talky "Lock in use". So M2L and NP were allowed to drift with the wind towards the bank. EA have a crew painting the bollards and their boat, with engine problems, is being pushed into the lock. Some time later we were able to enter the lock and filled our tanks with water. EA had installed a stand pipe close to the lock.

Continued on down stream through open countryside following the river along its bending route. After two miles and through Whiston Lock we passed through White Mills Lock with help from the EA crew. They had arrived from Cogenhoe and kindly opened the lock as we approached. Now most of these Guillotine locks have electric motors to raise and lower them. But the next at Earls Barton is one that is not. A large wheel is turned by hand. "Tis hard work and takes time". Another mile and another lock and we found a grassy bank to stay a few days.

Next day we all walked up to the very pretty village of Great Deddington and yes there is still a Post Office but it has moved next door. A small shop will be handy for bread n milk when we need them. Then on back down the hill and across the river to the Summerleys Nature Reserve. Originally old gravel pits. The Nene Way is a foot path partly using an old railway route following the river. Vic and I returned to the boats while the girls continued their longer walk. It was another of those fine sunny hot days with temperatures in the high 20's.

Error !!

These pictures were for the previous post.

No Problem leaving Weston Favell Lock

This much water before it rained!

 

On the Nene

Cobblers

Northamptun and Southamptun existed in the 11^th. Century and 'Hamptun' means homestead. The towns were linked by an old route way. In 1213 the footwear industry made a pair of boots for King John then a hundred years later boots were made for Cromwell's army. Another 150 years passed and they made more boots for the British Army during the Napoleonic Wars.

The local football team are known as 'the cobblers' !

Moving east

Moved about 3 miles and through 3 locks on Sunday after morning rain and watching F1 racing. A sunny afternoon trip to Cogenhoe. Moored against a grass bank and put the plank out at the bow. The fields are common ground so we wont be charged for staying unlike on the Thames! Seen the boat called Moore To Life here but nobody is aboard. Yes, that is our previous boat.

A few days of rain is causing the river to run a bit faster over the locks. Seems normal on the river to allow the river to flow through the locks. The top gates are left shut and the bottom guillotine gate is raised. Our ropes are deliberately long and loose to allow the boat to rise and fall with the water level. But often the boat settles on the mud!

A different environment

Well we have got down the Rotherthorp flight of 13 locks and a further 4 to the River Nene. Our grateful thanks to John and Paul who read our blogs and came a long way to help both boats down in about 5 hours.

Stopped to shop at Morrisons at moorings in Northampton before continuing on through a further 3 locks to find moorings at Western Favell. A total of 20 locks but only 6 miles. The sun shone all day which helped make the trip a 'picnic'.

The river is very wide here in the flood plane. There are huge lakes created to prevent flooding. Have already seen some different wildlife. Brent Geese, Grebe, Tern, Sandpipers and a Heron. As well as the usual ducks and swans. The swans are nesting at this time as many other birds are. The locks are neat and tidy having been freshly painted for the season.

The Grand Union and the canal system seem a world away already. That is a major road in comparison to this country lane. The lack of boat movement is very noticeable.

River and Water

We are heading for the river Nene soon. Just waiting till after the Bank holiday weekend as a boat gathering in Northampton are coming back up. Lack of rainfall this winter will ensure a quiet calm river flow, but will it be a cause for concern if there is not enough of it? Will be travelling with Sue n Vic on No Problem who toured East Anglia last year. It will be back in 'discovery' mode for us. Got a 'Gold Licence' which allows us to navigate the rivers controlled by the Environment Agency.

Moore 2 Life web pages

I have added pictures to the Book.  Each Chapter / Album covers a year of our life on the canals between 1995 and 2005. There is a link to the site here.  www.moore2life.co.uk 

Small refit

Headed back in to Braunston on Tuesday and backed into the Marina to D B Boat fitters.

They were ready to start building the cabin cupboard and by the end of the day much of it was in place. Next day we were up early so that work could continue. The trim and door got fitted and the whole thing was varnished. It was made to look the same as the other woodwork and looks great.

Getting out the back of our boat had always been difficult with just a box to step out on. So D B were also asked to make some steps. These were made and fitted by Friday morning. Another excellent production.

Three in a row

The 'undesirables'

Got water and turned at Stoke Bruerne with a foot to spare. The local trip boat is about the same length as ours so reckoned ours should be ok. Back through the tunnel behind 'No Problem', but not too close. We slowed down as two boats passed us in the dark. Then realised that we were getting closer to 'No Problem'. Apparently the boat in front of them had actually stopped! "Not the best thing to do in a dark tunnel when boats are following behind"!

Having got through the tunnel we stopped just passed Blisworth. Sue found her long lost walking stick which had been thrown over the hedge. A couple of 'rubbish boats' were nearby and the occupants had walked passed and looked in. They then lit a bonfire on the towpath, sat round it and started playing loud music. One of the advantages of living on a boat is that if we don’t like our neighbours we can move. So we did, just a mile further on, at 8 in the evening as the sun was going down.

Nether Heyford

Got here and turned the next day. Moored near the footpath to the village. We all walked across the fields of kale to find a shop and butcher. They were so friendly we were soon on first name terms. Lovely fresh meat as well.

Returned to the boat and set about constructing a new chimney. Had got some galvanised steel earlier and Vic helped by drilling holes and using his pop rivet gun. In order to encourage the short chimney to draw it needs to be kept warm outside. A longer one would hit the low bridges! So we made two tubes one inside the other. The outer one would keep the inner tube warm.

Getting busy on Maundy Thursday so we both went down the Northampton Arm for a few quiet days.

Return to Braunston

Left our friends Sue n Vic after celebrating Ann's birthday the previous evening and stopped at Brockhall. Later that day Roy n Rose on 'Maddy Rose' stopped for the night. We have known them for many years as 'passing' boaters. Never before have we travelled together but now we agree to go over the hill to Braunston. We moved on Easter Sunday after eating a boiled egg and hot cross bun for breakfast. The previous day we saw over 50 boats on the move. Today most locks had two boats in on our way up. We were in a convoy of 5 boats approaching the tunnel and passed 6 going through! So at one point there were 11 boats inside the blackness going ever so slowly. Seemed an age getting through, then down the locks to Braunston with even more boats coming up. Got water in Braunston before heading down towards Napton and stopping at Nethercote. A full 22 lock miles done in 6 hours.

Sunshine spring

What a difference the sunshine makes. The daffodils are out at last, seen in groups along the tow path. The birds are singing in the mornings. Spring has sprung! Trees are about to turn green and our pansies are coming out in colour. Easter is a celebration of new life which 'spring' brings.

We are enjoying the sunshine after a night of rain at Stoke Bruerne in Northants. A typical canal village built mostly of Blisworth stone with warehouses and cottages along the wharf. There is a church but no shops or Post Office now. Took 30 minutes to pass through the 3057 yard tunnel to get there on the Grand Union Canal. It is the longest tunnel open to navigation in Britain. The 'public' are out and about this weekend. The Museum and trip boats here being the main attractions.

Meeting Friends

We moved out of Braunston and went down the Grand Union to Shuckborough. Terry & Myra on 'Juno' came through the tunnel and met us there. Next day they left heading for Banbury where they plan to meet their family. Then met up again with Sue n Vic on 'No Problem' after they had visited Calcutt. It is very noticeable that this length of canal is busy with boats going by almost every 10 minutes.

Shuckborough

We all walked through this small settlement and up the hill to Shuckborough Manor. The Manor Farm is still in operation. A large pile of oak trees is waiting to be cut up into logs.  Then we saw them. A heard of Deer. Lying down in a group in a field in front of the manor house. As we approached they stood up but did not run off. We stayed well back to observe and take pictures.

A trip for mum

Banbury pickup

A few days later we were in Banbury to collect mum from the bus station. Tesco came first while we were down by the wood yard. Once the supplies were packed away we moved on to the 'facilities' to get fresh water etc. Then mum arrived on the National Express coach. Once on board we moved up through the lock which Vic had kindly emptied and opened for us. Both boats came up and went on to get diesel at 'Sovereign', still only 49p a litre. Stayed the night past the motorway bridge near the Tesco shop.

Cropredy

Four locks and four miles easily done during a bright sunny day. Surprisingly quickly as we were on our own for a while. Mum posted some cards and looked into the church. The unusual thing to see was the swinging clock pendulum. The river Cherwell was not at all in flood as expected after those earlier days of rain. The rest of the day was spent watching a family video.

Over the top

Another fine sunny day saw us climb up to the summit through the eight locks to Claydon Top. Following several boats and seeing some come down. Mum helped by shutting some of the gates. Stopped at the top, put out the bird feeders and watched various birds arrive to eat. During the course of the next two days we travelled the 21 miles and 9 locks down to Napton. But it was very cold with that chilly east wind. Glad to be down in the shelter of the hill. Had a meal in the 'Folly Pie' pub with its warming wood fire. Eventually got to Braunston by the weekend driving past many old tatty boats on the way in. We went to Banbury with mum on the bus so she could return home on the coach. An enjoyable trip through the countryside on a sunny dry day.

Wind, rain and river

Since that lovely sunny weekend it has rained every day. As we climb back up the canal we see that the river Cherwell is filling up fast. Just north of Aynho the river joins and passes through the canal between two locks. Our concern is that we may not get under the low Nell Bridge if the river is too high. But before that we had to get up Somerton deep lock. It is in a very exposed location and the wind blew our boats away from the towpath before we could secure them properly. It was a real struggle pulling the boats back to the edge against that wind.

Above the lock was no easier as Vic lifted a bridge for us to go under. Sue followed but the wind took the boat to the wrong side when stopping to pick him up. We stopped further on and walked back to help. They had actually got their dog Lucie to take a rope across the canal so that Vic could pull the boat back to the towpath side. Three other boats got stuck there during the afternoon.

The old quarry

The old quarry at Kirtlington is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a safe place to run around and explore. The stone and clay was made into cement on site and transported away by narrowboat on the Oxford canal. The site is littered with small rocks some of which contain shell fossils while some dinosaur bones have been found here.

Chris, Tracy, Josh and Ben arrived and stayed a night with us while Sue n Vic also entertained their guests. On Sunday we were joined by Kiera and Niamh and enjoyed a sunny day running around and climbing rocks. Some of the small rocks had been arranged to form faces and a maze on the ground, adding interest for the children.

Ice n low bridges

Arrangements are being made for family to visit us somewhere below Lower Heyford. Access to the canal is limited along this end of the canal. However there is a bridle way making it possible at Kirtlington. Left Aynho on a bright sunny but cold day after a few boats had passed breaking up the ice. Arrived at the deep Somerton lock and while waiting for No Problem to go down we watched all the ice moving towards the lock as it filled up. Crunching up in the moving water and flowing noisily down the byway. When both boats had got down the 12 feet two other boats were approaching to go up.

The bridges are all very low and narrow so we were obliged to remove our chimney and as a precaution, let the fire out as it does not burn well without a chimney. S n V had lowered their canopy to avoid damaging it. We passed down through 5 locks and travelled 9 miles before stopping just short of our intended meeting point as it had got much colder. Got inside, relit the fire and set up the sat dish.

By next morning the ice had reformed its hard flat surface but then a boat came crunching by. We were then able to move on to our mooring at the old Cement Wharf at Kirtlington. I walked up to the village to post the news letters while the girls went off for one of their long walks round this quiet countryside.

Heading south

We are travelling south on the Oxford Canal and have arrived at Banbury. On the way we stopped at Napton, Claydon and Cropredy. Slow n easy just waiting for the locks to open back at Braunston. BW are installing 'back pumps' which will pump the water up 36 feet to the top of the flight of 6 locks. Should be open again by the middle of March when we plan to go east this year.

The 9 locks between Napton and Marston Doles got us up to the summit. These were the first flight of locks seen since before Christmas last year. We tackled them together with No Problem helping each other with the paddles and gates. Next day we continued on and on past Fenny Compton and down the Claydon set of 5 locks and stopped near the bottom lock. Both boats moored on a good edge where a gap in the trees enabled our satellite reception. On the way we noticed that an old wreck of a wooden converted 'butty' called 'African Queen' had sunk. Then we moved down to Cropredy. With the lack of rain this winter the river Cherwell was very low. Remembering that back in December 2002 it was flooding over the road and into the fields. While Sue n Vic entertained their visitors I spent the time making a wooden base for our satellite dish and solar panel during four lovely warm sunny days.

After that we moved on into Banbury. It was a Saturday and the centre was full of boats and shoppers. While the girls went off to the shops the guys stayed on guard. It is a sad fact that some members of the public will show a lack of respect. Later in the week we noticed that the centre was empty of boats. The winter moorings and residential boaters had been moved out. Apparently the shoppers complained about their washing and smelly smoking fires. We stayed down by the wood yard just out of town near Morrisons.

Limited hours, Limited service

I had applied for a Gold Licence by post and after a month the licence failed to arrive. So our boat is not displaying a licence because it had to be returned. When in Braunston on a Friday I called into the one day a week open BW office. My application was sent to the Watford office but could not be found. Despite their wonderful computer system they were not able to issue a licence at Braunston. So I was obliged to reapply with all the paper work that applies. I tried the Waterscape web site but that could not handle Direct Debit arrangements. We need the licence to travel on the rivers this year.

Solar Panel

Have had a 'Solara M. Series' semi flexible panel, which claims to be 40Wp, on the roof for a few weeks now. It is about 2 ft. 6 in. by 1 ft. 6 in. and were amazed to find that its regulator indicated a charge from sunrise to sunset even when cloudy. Boat batteries are usually at their lowest in the morning and I was in the habit of running the engine for about 2 hours and a further hour in the evening before 8 o'clock. I now find that there is no need to run the engine in the morning as the voltage is generally higher than before. 2 hours in the evening seems to be enough for the lights and TV. In order to run the lights and TV in the evening you need enough battery capacity to store the power. You can generate and store the power with more panels during the day. Get it right and you wont need to run the engine! But then you wont have hot water!

Braunston

Got to Braunston and stayed a week. The ice came and went regularly. Sue n Vic headed off to Calcutt and Napton for an appointment with the boat yard. Our friends Mary & Ray came up in their 'campervan' and stayed in the marina car park. We all got on the bus into Daventry to shop and see the dentist. Those two days were warm and sunny and we enjoyed catching up with their news from back home.

Then we visited Bob & Jane on 'Hobo'. Bob was pleased to see Molly again. Jane told us about Mr. Finch a known criminal who keeps on breaking into narrowboats. He was fished out of the canal in a drunken state and promptly arrested and is now back in jail for two years.

On a day when the ice had cleared we moved through Braunston and turned. On the way we saw a familiar boat called 'More To Life'. The owners have changed the spelling of the name and as we passed greeted us with a cheerful wave. Then we got some more diesel from Ivor on 'Mountbatten' before mooring up for another night.

On our way out to Napton a boater enquired if our boat was painted differently on the other side. I explained that another boat with a similar name was in Braunston and that it was our first boat. Many boaters say to us that they have seen us often where we have not been!

A long cold stretch

The north end of the Oxford canal is very remote and exposed, passing a golf course and open fields. Once past Ansty the railway is very close following the canal all the way to Stretton Stop where Rose Narrowboats operate. Next through All Oaks Wood which is quite bleak at this time of year. On through the illuminated Newbold Tunnel and stopped just past the water point and the 'Barley Mow' pub. 12 miles done in 3 hours, one of our longest travelling days this winter. "Get inside for a warming cup of tea".

The next day our friends on No Problem found that their engine would not start so we towed them to Brownsover. An engineer arrived to replace the starter motor. After shopping we continued to our journey up the locks at Hillmorton.

No Problem being towed

Just a quick Blog to show the bow end of No Problem.  See http://www.choiceforum.co.uk/blog/noproblem.html

Coventry Basin

We arrived end of January and squeezed under the low Bridge No. 1. The original Wharf buildings are fully restored and now used by the artists of Coventry. Plenty of room here for at least ten narrow boats. The general public have access by a bridge over the ring road but only the local residents come by. So it is very quiet and secure. The Rangers provided information and a map of the city. The canal on the way in was deep and clear and had far less rubbish than we saw back in 2001.

The location is north of the city and just a mile from the centre. A bus and coach station, Motor museum, the Cathedral and the hospital are all within about ten minutes walking. Plenty of big shops are here including Sainsbury's. So all in all a great place to stay for a couple of nights once you have travelled the 5 miles down the canal through the old industrial heart of Coventry which is considered to be the birthplace of the British motor car industry.