Finishing ahead of schedule.

On the first opportunity to be had we headed out to Barkers lock to check on progress. Absolutely astonished at how far ahead they were with the work. Brickwork pointing completed, especially around the ladders, new ground paddles installed, which should make life much easier when trying to lift the paddles (says I hopefully) and some of the coping stones replaced. The gates didn't need re-planking as an inspection showed them to be sound, they having been replaced a few years ago, but where it had been rubbed (boats going in through one gate) wood has been inserted to the mitre to stop the leaks. The hope is that the lock will reopen ahead of scheduled, possibly by next weekend. Then an unscheduled short stoppage at Hallem Fields, (we think during the same stoppage period) to finally install the paddle gear removed 5 years ago!

Hard hat to be worn before I was allowed in

New paddle gear

Re-pointing done.

Scaffolding should be removed within days.

Wood inserted on the bottom gate mitre.