A slow sort of day

And another long day today. We managed to sneak away before the lone boater (moored in front of us) got going. He already had engine started and I really didnt want to be stuck behind him again. So the last two locks on the Audlem flight were all ours and empty.

Lock 2 Audlem flight

The going was pretty good at first and very warm and sunny. Hardly any boats about but that soon changed when we got Adderley locks. It was as I stopped on the landing that I spied the Sloes, growing in profusion , and very tempting to pick.  I'm hoping for another bumper year of harvesting these small purple fruits. Another batch of Sloe Gin to put away for next Christmas. Not quite ripe yet and best left until late September/early October before picking. I think we will be on the look out for cheap Gin.

At Adderley locks we followed a boat up the flight so had to turn every one. It was at the top that 3 more boats left ahead of us so now we had 4 boats in front but once we reached Market Drayton, three of the boats moored up, leaving us following just one. 

At the approach to Tyrley locks Ian spied this. Someone has had a lot of fun creating a masterpiece from an old tree trunk.

It was bedlam at the locks..... and where had that boat going up the flight come from? With another boat to follow it was another slow ascent as neither of the two boats in front went ahead to set the next locks. Lots of waiting and hanging around and battling with the vicious by washes. Finally got to the top and here the first boat stopped to water up at the facility block, much to our relief.

So only one boat left now to follow through Woodseaves cutting. I'm sure the channel gets narrower as the years go by and definitely not a good place meet another boat

And into the gloom where it appears we have to be aware of falling rocks!

Raining heavily at this point

Didn't want to meet another boat along here!

One of the unique bridges on the Shroppie

And finally out and back into the daylight.

Just had to do it, get the camera out to photographed this bridge.

After another 8 hour journey we arrived at Norbury. The sun had finally come out and the afternoon turned out rather pleasant. I had my fishing fix for today but only caught a small Roach and some very small Gudgeon. We are now slightly ahead of schedule so maybe a lie in will be on the cards for tomorrow.

And today's wildlife seen on route,

There be dark skies on the horizon.

Buzzard youngster

And plenty of Herons

Opps how did Jade get in amongst the wildlife. (: Still amazed that she looks younger then her 14 years.

Is it a Pterodactyl?