Whether you lichen it or not ...

As we progressed along the Oxford Canal this morning Bridge 42 looked as though chewing gum had been stuck all over it.

It's actually hundreds of patches of lichen.

We stopped at Brownsover for lunch; no sooner had we tied up than Maffi turned up on Milly M. We invited him to join us for lunch but all he would accept was a cup of tea.

While we were chatting Tim and Tracey also turned up on Sola Gratia, with Tracey's new guide dog, Teddy.

It was good to see you all.

A little further on we came to where the new bridge is being built over the canal. Cast into the concrete deck (not visible on my photo), in huge letters, is what looks like "Houlton Bridge". Which would make sense, as the new development it connects to is called Houlton.

Hillmorton Locks were a breeze; flowers by the old paddle gear linking the parallel locks added colour.

At Barby we passed a boat with one of the most unusual cratch covers I have seen.

Tamsin had a sign in the window proclaiming "The Stage Boat". Which would explain it. A bit.

As is often the way, I have noticed something unusual when reviewing the photo. Interesting rear fender arrangement on Tamsin.

We stopped for the evening outside Dunchurch Pools Marina; John and Gill joined us for tea.

Perhaps I should have removed the wine glasses. Ah well.