As we came down the Atherstone locks this morning I was looking forward, as usual, to operating the only working "true" side pond that I know of. But at lock 6 there was this CRT notice.
"Please do not operate this paddle". I complied with the instruction, but thought it was a shame that it couldn't have said something like "Please use this paddle only if you know what you're doing".
I remember being instructed in the operation of side ponds on my first canal boat trip, in 1975 from Wyvern at Linslade, when side ponds were still working on the Grand Union.
At the bottom of the locks we tied up alongside
Wrens Nest, Chris and Joy's boat, on their new mooring at Bradley Green. What an excellent mooring it is! Thank you, Chris and Joy, for coffee, then lunch.
Our next appointment was at Alvecote, where we were hoping to see Sarah and Jim. I don't think I'm breaking any big secret when I say that they have just moved
Chertsey here. As we arrived we saw them sitting outside the Samuel Barlow; we tied up and joined them for drinks, then a curry (as it was curry night there). After that we retired to
Jubilee for tea/coffee and more chat. It was great to see you, and may your stay at Alvecote be a happy one. You certainly seem to be enjoying it so far.
Here is the obligatory photo (sorry it's not very good).
We will stop at Fazeley tomorrow to see if David and Mary are in (oops, we haven't told them we're coming).
5 comments:
If you want to play side-ponds, take a trip down the Droitwich. The first two or three locks off the W&B have side ponds, and use of same is not only possible, but obligatory.
MP.
Excellent! Thanks MP. And you have reminded me of another waterway I have yet to cruise.
It is the first three locks at Hanbury at the start of the Droitwich Canal that have side ponds. Most days from about 10:00 to 16:00 they have VLK's to help those who are not used to them. Do add the Droitwich to your list of canals to travel - we more at Droitwich Spa Marina and love it down here. Don't let Tardebigge put you off - a lot of locks, but it is a pretty flight and never seems to be too much or a chore. Jennie nb Tentatrice
I was wondering where they had taken Chertsey.
Jennie, thanks for that. I love the Tardebigge flight - lots of lovely locks! We will certainly do the Droitwich Canal at some time.
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