It was the rain
what woke us. Not a glimmer of light to be seen through the curtains but could we go back to sleep? No...... impossible because of the constant dripping of water from the solar panels. Just like Chinese water torture. Once inside your head that's all one focuses on. So kettle on, breakfast had and we made ready to leave. A lot earlier then we wanted but could see no reason to hang around.
Stenson lock had been with us but was turned around as we rounded the bend. Instead of the chap closing the paddles quick like, he continued with the emptying. Hey ho never mind..... such is life as they say. 30 minutes later we descended and continued to Swarkstone lock where we had hoped to meet another boat to share the lock. Not to be this time but luckily a Canal holiday boat joined us at Weston lock. A very nice couple from the States who was on the last leg of the four counties ring. 3 weeks it had taken them and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Chatting away we discovered they too lived on a boat. A 40' sailing yacht, a bit different from the slow gentle life on a narrowboat. After all, one can get sea sick on a yacht! Anyway between Weston and Aston lock the mile pound was low! Took for ever to reach Aston lock and even on tickover we occasionally pulled a wash.
Below Aston lock C&RT were doing a spot of dredging and back filling. The approach to the lock landing to ascend this lock has always been difficult owing to the shallow conditions and many a time we cut the corner only to find ourselves on the P. Putting more piling in and dredging the approach should make life so much easier for all in future.
Anyway we continued with them to Shardlow, did the final lock together and waved them farewell with the 'see you in two years' ringing in our ears. They definitely have the narrow boating bug and it wouldn't surprise us if we did see them again, especially with emails exchanged and my blog address given, there is no reason for us not to. Watching them sail off in the distance we eventually moored outside the New Inn to await our visitors.
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| Shardlow lock |
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| Bob and Jane, a lovely couple from across the great pond. |
And on route
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| Jackdaw |
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| Long Tailed tit |
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| Sparrow |
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| Jay |
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