Cruising through GRASS????

Isn't it always the way? No boats for days then yesterday Langley Mill was inundated! Not good for us facing the wrong way and having to wind. Unfortunately, space is limited at t'mill so mooring opposite the winding hole is something we have had to put up with. Luckily for us though, at 57 foot we can still wind even if a boat is moored opposite but anything above 60 foot ....Not a chance! Anyway last night we winded in readiness for the early start. Two boats had just come off the dry dock and we were approached by the skipper of Sammy Jo asking if they could join us. Locking buddies is always better to have but when I mentioned the early start (like 8 am) this didn't go down quite so well "We will have to set the alarm then" he replied with a pained look.

So true to his word by 8 am we were in the lock. Ian was lock wheeling, not by foot but by car which made the journey to Sandiacre super quick.  Ian had set all the locks for our arrival and with Alison (wife of the skipper who we think was called Richard) also winding paddles, the whole journey took a little under 5 hours.

Langley Bridge water pipe repairs.

At Eastwood lock

 The Erewash is a lovely canal to travel, so don't listen to old-timers who tell you it has a bad reputation. Long-time ago maybe, when low water, weed, uncouth youths, heavy gates etc was the problem but most of these points are now a thing of the past. Well all except the gates, that is. They are soooo very heavy to close, typical Grand Union locks in my opinion. But there was something that I was shocked to see. Reeds.. the tall grass type that takes over a waterway if not checked  In fact so bad had they encroached the channel that trying to see beyond was a 'hope the pointy end is still heading for the middle of the canal', scenario.

On the approach

Channel is in there somewhere

Ploughing through

The canal also bends so for those unaware, into the bank you could go!

Looking back. Anyone would think the canal had ended!

This I find totally unacceptable. C&RT need to address this sooner rather than later. Come next spring and without much in the way of boat traffic, the Erewash may as well be classed as un-navigable. Ian has sent these photos to our Chairman of the ECP&DA  who I hope will send a request to C&RT to do something about it!

One night will be spent at Sandiacre for tomorrow it's off to Sawley to meet up with Dennis and Margaret on NB Icing.

And wildlife,

The Cygnets have grown

A hint of blue. It was a Kingfisher

So many Dragonflies about.