Glad we were going the other way.

Monday 2nd May

Yes...at last...warmer weather. Okay it still wasn't brilliant but oh so nice to be able to set off without dressing to the nines in thick coats, gloves, scarves etc. We just about beat the threatening rain as we pulled into a mooring above Wardle lock. Then as the drizzle started it was a hasty trip to Lidl and the tackle shop but we were not quick enough to return before the drizzle turned into a downpour. So instead of leaving as we had planned after the shop, we stayed until mid afternoon. As soon as the sun put in an appearance it seemed every man and his dog decided to leave at the same time.

We got to Wardle lock first but then, once through the junction, reversed FS to Kings Lock Chandlers for diesel. At 57p it was the cheapest we have seen for a while. Unfortunately the diesel hose wasn't long enough to reach FS's stern so the bow had to stick out beyond the bow of a moored boat. With two locks being in use (Wardle from the Shropshire and Kings lock on the T&M) I had great difficulty keeping our bow from rubbing the other boat. Hmm, now have some idea of the term being stretched on the rack as a form of torture. We also bought another bag of coal. Well after all, one cant rely on the weather staying mild even in May.

Kings lock and Chandlers

Wardle lock through the bridge 'ole

Having boats coming out of the junction going up the T&M and boats heading down the locks on the T&M we had a bit of a delay to the journey. Mind you nothing compared to those waiting below lock 74. Boats going in all directions and don't envy that wait from the last boat.

A lock keeper helped us on our way and warned me how many were on their way up.

Chaos.

 We again managed to beat the threatening black clouds pulling into Bumble moorings which are on  the offside. Only one boat moored so with only two mooring places we were very lucky to get the second one. And what a fabulous and completely safe mooring with picnic tables. Bet it's really busy in the summer in fact the notice ask for boaters to allow arriving boats to breast up. 2 days one can stay. Shame we are moving on tomorrow. The Salt mines beckon.

Someone has a sense of humour.

On the journey,

Fabulous use of a tree stump

Croxton Flash

And the wildlife,

Last nights mooring

Not sure what these flowers are but they seem to be everywhere

Somehow I think these yellow ducklings have a different dad.

At Bumble Cuttings a Grebe

 Tree Creeper seen an a bridge 'ole.