Washed t'other side of FS this morning, very early before it got too hot. Even so, the roof had steam coming from it as soon as the sponge contacted the metal. But another job out of the way for the time being and getting a compliment from a passerby, made the effort worthwhile. So we got going a little after 9 am and, descending Berkhampsted lock, was thrilled to see Hyperion at the bottom dieseling another boat. It didn't take Ian long to pull alongside and a fill of 79 litres, (gauge still on half a tank) we came away £56 lighter. At 71p a litre we felt this a very reasonable price considering how near to the Capital we are getting.
Next two locks were Ravens Lane and Rising Sun.
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| Ravens Lane Lock with its splendid sign |
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| And looking back. The sign is a reminder of when Castle Wharf handled a variety of canal traffic. |
By Topside Lock we had a locking partner and had something in common to chat about as they were Australian (Melbourne) spending 6 months in the UK on their boat Weytoma. It was lovely to re-live out travels down under with Ken and Linda, as they were both very knowledgeable about the places we had seen, although Ken was very surprised when I happened to mention that we found some of the lost canals of Melbourne as he had no idea that Australia, let alone his hometown of Melbourne, had any. The rest of the journey to Hemel Hempstead went like a dream and even the Wingwell Road hydraulic swing bridge was a doddle.
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| Ken and Linda |
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| Now, which button do I push? |
We found moorings before Boxmoor Lock and nipped across the field to Aldi. More beer and wine was needed! So we may well stay here for a couple of days but that all depends if what little bait I have left, stays as wrigglers and not casters.
And seen on route,
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| This unique boat has been seen many times but I think it has had a makeover. |
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| We think it's a Volkswagon Touran but how do they steer it let alone get from one side to the other? |
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| Still has its number plate |
And this Cormorant surfaced right where I was fishing. Killed the swim dead!
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