Monday 16th August 2016

An early start as we left at 7.30am. The run to the top of the flight was straightforward although we certainly got the message that uninvited guests were not wanted at this factory.

The flight was in good condition and workmen were tarmacing and pebble dashing the towpath. This will be a great surprise to Chris and Alan as when they were with us we saw men being paid to gather up the pebbles as they were a health hazard!

At every lock when you are going down you have to be careful not to get the stern of the boat caught on the cill as the boat will tip and sink. This photo shows the cill clearly. Often they are difficult to see due to the leaking gates spraying water everywhere.

We cleared the flight in under 4 hours and turned north onto the Staffs and Worcs. canal. There is a very picturesque but narrow section.

Finally after 5 weeks on the boat, we have the weather, the place and the time for a Pimms and BBQ. Cheers!