Strength not what it used to be.

 27th Oct

Gosh just realised Toffee has already been with us for 12 days. Her season is now coming to a critical time...she is very interested in dogs but treats as bribery keeps her by our side. I'll  be glad when she gets to the end and we can walk without being on edge every time a dog is seen.

More locks to do today and still no boat appeared to join us. At the first of the Seabrook lock Ian really struggled to close the top gate. I was already on my way to the second lock when I noticed him struggling. He called out that maybe another body (me) pulling at the gate while he pushed may do the trick so I started to reverse back toward the lock. Then just as I was about to stop the stern by the lock, he got the gate closed!  Hope the next boater won't have the same trouble!

 

Seabrook second lock had CRT working. They were clearing the coping stones of weeds and lichen around the lock. I mentioned how impressed we both were with the grass cut and towpaths well attended along most of the GU. They answered how they take great pride in keeping their patch looking good although admitted the offside veg needed attention. I laughed at that, told them they had nothing to worry about, just go along the Oxford Canal to see how bad that was! Anyway it was nice having a laugh and a chat with them.

Ian walked on to open the swing bridge, said how stiff the bridge was and again he struggled to close it. Maybe he has got to admit that he is now no longer as strong as he used to be!

Before ascending the Marston locks we had a brief stop at the facilities. Next stop was find a mooring and again we struck lucky. Plenty on the offside bit it was the reservoir side we wanted, One space available, Ian paced it out and yes we would fit. 

Such a lovely afternoon that we took Toffee around the reservoir. Hopefully the weather will stay kind tomorrow because we fancy a walk to the College Park nature reserve. Not sure if dogs are allowed although on the website it states they must stay on the lead. Still, if not, at least it will have had a good run.