Friday 4th July 2014

An early start today (8.15am) as yet again rain is forecast. Through one lock, filled with water, through the remaining 4 and by 9.45 we were moored at the top of the flight to visit Atherton.Lots of independent shops and an interesting 1940's vintage cafe called 'The Larder'. There was a lot of memorabilia and the visitors' book seemed to indicate that it is a favourite with school visits. The only coffee on the menu was Nescafé, milky Nescafé or Camp coffee!

( Think the fan may be more modern)

We were hoping for 1940's prices but although that was not to be the prices were very good and Graham managed to use his entire war time rations in one meal!

On to Hawkesbury junction. A straight run with no locks which took 4 hours. Entered the Coventry Arm  as we shall visit that city tomorrow. It is a dead end but only a 5 mile run and we are so close.

We shall have to retrace our route to take the Rugby branch but not until Sunday.

The sunshine of 4pm has given way to the rain so it will be a soggy walk to 'The Greyhound' for dinner.

Tonight Lullaby will be the M6. ( note to self- study the map more carefully)