More Rain

Staffs & Worcs Canal                               10 Locks

Well the weather made up for the last few dry weeks.....it just rained & rained. We decided to have breakfast at McDonalds and go to Go Outdoors for a waterproof coat for me, as I had left mine at home. As it turned out, we took so long in Go Outdoors, buying trousers, coats & shoes that by the time we got back to the marina, it was starting to brighten up. As I write this, 36 hours later my waterproof has yet to be worn......worth the cost I guess to ensure that not a drop of rain fell since I paid for it.

We left the marina at 1.30pm and set off into a gorgeous afternoon. We arrived at Compton lock 1.5 hr later and  Sophie proved that she had not lost her touch when it came to lock-winding. Unfortunately, we were also behind a very slow & cautious boat, so progress through the locks was slow.

Nearing Compton

We followed them all the way to Bratch Locks, but passed them just above the top. It was gone 6pm when we were passing through Bratch and with the lock keeper to help us through, we only took about 15/20 mins. We also bought some new paddle keys, just the kind we like, for £5.00 EACH!!!!!!!!!! Well spotted Sophie!! They had been fished out of the canal at some point and painted and were just perfect.

Harebell at Bratch for the first time with our family xx 

I have had quite an easy day, as Sophie & James has been doing most of the lock- winding.....I was even forbidden to help on some of them!!

We were through the next lock in no time and found our desired mooring spot near Sainsburys in Wombourne. Marcus stayed on the boat to fix the alternator and we went for a few more supplies. A late evening after all, as we all had to have dinner.  A later night to bed, but straight to sleep for all of us and a good night's sleep to boot.