Abandoned hire boats.

 November 6th

Today we made for Baddiley Locks. T'wasn't far, only about 6.5 miles but we did have to do a couple of lift bridges and two locks to get there. The Baddiley stoppage starts on Monday 8th and as much as this is a lovely canal, not sure if we would want to spend another three weeks on it.

We looked long and hard when we reached Quoisley Lock. It was at this lock that a stoppage had been put in place 10 days ago nearly stopping Chris and Kev from taking Merlin back to Bunbury. Apart from a wooden block and what looked like plastic wedge in the collar, (and we were not sure if this was already in place when we went through the first time) this was all we could see, 

Oh dear, reaching Wrenbury Frith lift bridge and noticed it was down. Now we know that when we came through during the half term week it was in the open position. Not thinking anything of it we sailed straight through but when Ian went to open it today, a notice caught his eye asking for it to be lowered once a boat had passed through as vehicle access was required at all times. Oops, maybe we should have taken more notice! As I approached the bridge this sorry sight greeted me, Such an unloved and uncared for boat.It even had a huge branch across the stern, this was once someone's pride and joy.

the lift bridge now in the down position.

Next came Wrenbury lift bridge. Mechanised and a BW key needed to operate it. Only one car having to wait at the barrier today.

And what did I say yesterday about Alvechurch hire company taking up 48-hour moorings for their own use?

Something has baffled us for several days. Cheshire Cat holiday boats left abandoned. Their base is at Audlem on the Shropshire Union so it was strange that they were left on the Llangollen. The first was seen at Ellesmere. Totally empty and all the bedding had been removed. In fact the one at Ellesmere was there when we went through with Christine and Kev during half term week. Several more were seen at Wrenbury and another two above Quoisley Lock.

This one even had flowers left on the cabin top

Reflection of one of the Cheshire Cat boats at Ellesmere

 

The mystery was solved when a chap on another Cheshire Cat came past between top and middle lock at Baddiley. Ian asked the question and the reply was that several of the fleet were going into dry dock for work (he didn't say where) and that's why they have been left in several places above Baddiley Lock. It was imperative to bring them up the Llangollen before the 3 week stoppage started.

The grass cutting team were out, probably doing the last cut of the year and that work boat was still in place, nothing more seems to have been done with piling the edge. In fact it was more of a hindrance especially with a boat coming toward us and so near to the bridge 'ole  too.

And at the top lock.

Bricks ready for use.

Top lock

And workboats in place for Monday's stoppage

Middle lock badly in need of repair.

Look gate and paddle gear desperately require fixing.

A good time to stop just below the bottom lock, the wind had picked up, rain was felt in the air and I was cold. A huge Oak tree was nearby and overhanging the towpath. Why have I mentioned this? Well has anyone else noticed the lack of acorns this year. Not one tree all along the canal had even a single acorn on it. I think the Jays and squirrels may have to change their eating habits.

This squirrel was looking all over the lawn and finally found a nut buried.

And wildlife

There are a lot of Ladybirds still about.