An apology was NOT forthcoming.

Another beautiful morning and another early start. Did the biz at the facilities at Fradley before entering junction lock. Already set for us by the volunteer (yep, he had started at 8 am) and I was soon engaging him in conversation about the mystery of the Green flag-waving volunteer. He had no idea and again confirmed what I had thought. This chap was not from C&RT, probably gave him the feeling of power to wear the uniform. So unless I hear to the contrary, I will finally put this one to bed.

All the locks of Fradley had volunteers and all had started early. They were expecting a busy day ahead because Litchfield and Hatherton were holding a rally at Huddelsford. We saw fewer boats than expected on the journey to Rugely and it confirmed my thoughts that autumn cruising is one of the best times of the year to go away.

Out of junction lock toward Middlelock

Tranquille cruise to Wood End Lock

Having to sit back on the gate at Wood End. Another of those locks whose gates refuse to stay shut.

 At Armitage tunnel, Ian walked ahead to check the way was clear. One can't see through and it was  not good if boats enter at the same time either end. Head-on collision, or reverse, there were no other options.

Rugely and as usual hardly a space to be had. We tagged on the end of the line which meant a bit of a walk to the shops and good job I had my trusty shopping trolly with me 'cos it was filled to capacity with booze, well we are having a BBQ tonight but we did have just enough room for the odd fruit and veg.

Approaching Rugely

Moorings in Rugely

 We had not long returned and I was unloading the booze when I felt the boat lurch and heard a horrible scraping along the side. I shot out in time to see the steerer of that boat not only hit FS but the one in front as well. I could here Margaret having a go, she was not a happy bunny as Icing was the first to be hit. Apparently, a boat had been coming past in the opposite direction. That helmsman had shouted at the two men coming toward him to slow down because of the moored boats. This was ignored stating that they knew what tickover was. Hmmm... As if...and they obviously also didn't know the width of their boat, hitting one would have been bad enough but all three? An apology would have been nice, we know accidents do happen but not a word was spoken to any of us!

Leaving Rugely it was off to find a mooring where the BBQ could take place. A lovely mooring presented itself just before bridge 69.

And wildlife,