Someones pride and joy....gone

Only took 10 minutes to walk to Anchor Cottage from the junction so we were a tad to early for opening time but Tricia was already outside putting out her wares. She rused unside and came out with the can. Wow she has done us proud once again. One very talented artist!

Anchor cottage canal shop

 Having parted with our cash we took a slight detour to go and say hello to Debbie and James. Yep Lois Jane was moored at the top of Buckby flight. Unfortunately, it looked as if they had gone out, maybe taking Dudley for a walk so we never got to say our goodbyes. Never mind we have May bank holiday 2018 to look forward to when we meet again.

Winding at the junction it was back through the tunnel, down the 6 locks, (which again was horrendoulsy busy) past the Braunston Junction and headed off in the direction of Hillmorton. A sorry sight greeted us at bridge 89. The shell of a burnt out narrow boat. Ian thinks it may have been a Sea Otter and looking at the shape he may well be right. Wonder what happened?

East Portal entrance of Braunston Tunnel

Meeting another boat at a bendy bit.

West portal exit.

I stood my ground and wouldn't let him mow by FS.

This chap strimming had no idea these ladies were coming up behind him.

They had to wait patiently until the chap above (mowing) gave him a whistle to stop.

Lock keepers and volunteers at the bottom lock. Three of them and one trainee

Wall to wall boats through Braunston

Braunston Turn

So sad to see this. Owners must be devastated.

 Hillmorton was manned by two volunteer lockies. A board with their picture and name was at the top lock. Only one other place have I seen this practice and that was at Foxton Locks. I personally think this is a great idea, always nice to know who your helpers are.

On the bottom lock beam

This budding footballer (didnt fancy being a lock keeper) came to help.

Last lock of the day.

 This made Ian's face light up. Disappointed though, finding out it was a mannequin!

Made it to Rugby by 4.30 pm and very surprised to see spaces. Usually moorings are grabbed early leaving late comers to be disappointed, especially as Tesco is almost next to the canal and very conveinent. Having secured a mooring it was off to do a shop for the essential items (Beer, Wine and Gin ready for the Sloe season. Even though I say so myself, I do make a mean Sloe Gin!

A strange bug landed on the hand rail.

And wildlife,