Blacking delay and mushroom maintenance

Today started with a disappointment. We were told that our blacking wouldn't start until Monday, a delay of four days, as the crane's motor had had to have new brushes fitted. We therefore continued down the Leicester Section for a bit, stopping between Saddington and Smeeton Westerby.

After lunch we had a very enjoyable walk , finding the footpath that goes under Smeeton Aqueduct. This was built, as far as I could tell, as a cattle creep.

In the field just the other side is this boundary marker: GJC standing for Grand Junction Canal unless I am mistaken.

A feeder from Saddington Reservoir helps to keep this long pound topped up. This control paddle is near the reservoir end.

We looked round the pleasant village of Saddington, then took the quick route back to the boat along the road. While Jan was cooking tea I removed a mushroom vent to have a go at addressing the rust which was causing it to leak. The base of the vent was secured by four brass screws, three of which came out easily enough, but one sheared off and will need to be drilled out. Slight problem: I forgot my drills. A trip to Screwfix in Market Harborough is called for. Meanwhile I have scraped, wire brushed and Fertan-ed ready for painting. I'm not sure what to use as a sealant - ideas anyone?