Two in a lock????

We wanted to do a Morrison shop so with the store not opening before 10am a lie in was most welcome.  9.30 and we were on the move. Apart from the shopping, ahead of us was 12 lift bridges, 4 locks and 9 miles. So we raced around the store, grabbed the groceries and pulled pins as soon as we got back.

First two lift bridges were raised and most welcome it was too.

At Grants lock a boat was coming up. Got Ian off to do the lock and as the boat passed a lady happened to mention my photos so I'm assuming she reads this blog. Unfortunately, I didn't get the lady's name or the boat name but I thank you for your lovely comment.

 Two more lift bridges also raised. Wow, this is starting to look good. In fact, we were amazed and delighted that ALL the lift bridges were open on the route. So what we thought would take 6 hours to reach our planned stop, only took 4.5 hours.

We had to do part of the river Cherwell and Neil Bridge lock took us down onto it. It was on the lock beam that Ian spied a notice. "Here misses," says he to me. "Take a look at this and tell me what's wrong with it". This is the notice.

Spotted it yet?

This is the lock,

The other end of the river section and a unique lock. Aynho Weir lock with its diamond shape and a drop (or rise) of about a foot.

Leaving the lock this shows the shape.

Rain started as we passed under Chisnell lift bridge so the decision was to stop. Didn't quite make the 9 miles but with the rain and the wind chill, both wanted a warm drink and to light the stove.

 So here are my 'on the journey' photos,

Nice to see this as a restoration project.

Anyone for a sofa?

Hmm, vegetation and narrow channels. I think C&RT needs to address this sooner than later!

 And seen on route,

Kestrel

A late moorhen chick. Will it survive the winter?

Tasty