On Saturday we moved a couple of miles to a pleasant spot looking over the Weaver valley, near Bartington. It’s been pretty busy on the water, lots of traffic up and down. I had a walk up to the Black Prince hire base and had a chat with Philip, who provided us with a replacement starter motor when ours died while up on the Leeds and Liverpool. Turns out he’s a classic car enthusiast, too. He’s got a 1954 Rolls Royce and a selection of classic motorcycles.
NB Pavo arrived in the afternoon, she’s a converted small Woolwich butty built in 1935. Ian, the owner, is a mine of information on boating generally. His credentials are impeccable, having been born aboard the pair his parents ran for Willow Wren into the 60's.
Betelgeuse is a sister to Pavo, but unconverted. Both were built as "Star Class" buttys by Harland and Wolff in Woolwich.
Ian on NB Pavo heading for Anderton.
Our Eberspacher heating boiler is playing up again. It starts OK, but goes out after a few minutes, accompanied by a cloud of oily smelling white smoke, unburnt diesel vapour. Spoke to Ed of Four Counties Marine Services and he recommends a new burner. It has done 1700 hours, with only service parts fitted, so I suppose it’s not too badly. Now the weather has warmed up a bit we don’t really need it, but I’m missing the hot water it provides for my morning shower.
We stayed put yesterday, fine in the morning but showery later. Watched the Canadian Grand Prix, a good 1-2 result for the British lads. At least some of our sportsmen can deliver the goods.…
Today it was another short trip, just down to Anderton. Left at just before 10, and were moored up near the boat lift by noon.
Leafy banks as the canal hugs the valley side above the Weaver.
We just made the 20 minute passage “window” to go through Saltersford Tunnel.
Well fed cygnets near Barnton Bridge.
Once again I’m running The Great North Run this year, raising money for Cancer Research UK. I’ve set up a web page on justgiving.com, and would appreciate any sponsorship. There’s also a link to the page on the right, which will stay on till after the race.
Alternatively, wait till you see us. I’ve got the traditional sponsorship forms as well. There’s no escape……
Locks 0, miles 5½
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