Saturday 23rd June 2018

After arriving at the marina yesterday afternoon we were ready to set off at 10.30am. Our first days travel is exactly the same as last year so we knew what to expect. There was, however, a new bridge over the entrance to the Marina. It was craned into position yesterday so we would not have been able to leave then. It is to connect an overflow car park for the many shoppers who now visit the Marina as a leisure destination. The planners wanted a traditional hump back bridge appearance  but the internal framework is metal with a wooden facade.

Unlike last year there were no volunteers on any of the locks which were hard work being double and very heavy. We passed the iconic, and refurbished Navigation Inn at Shardlow, The owners wanted to change the name but public opinion persuaded them to retain the historic name.

The Shardlow flood gates were open as it has not rained for a while. The Trent & Mersey canal is 93 and a half miles long and has 76 locks. Over the years we have done them all - at least twice.

Sawley lock is electrically operated and was manned when we went through. Oh - the joy of not having to work the lock! 

Last year, a microbrewery opened at the lock, and it seemed to be thriving today, despite the limited opening hours.

Trent lock was our destination for the night. We found this dovecote in the garden of one of the pubs.

Tomorrow we head for new water when we enter the River Soar. Hopefully the weather will continue fine and dry!🤞