Blogging Friend.

Yesterday we had a very welcome visitor. Lesley off of NB Caxton (CLICK) came and paid us a visit, with her dogs Floyd and Fletcher.Lesley and Joe are also moored in Stourport Basin and have taken a mooring for 6 months, whilst they have another boat built. (CLICK). It was so nice to chat to Lesley face to face, because we have only ever seen Caxton in passing. I do enjoy putting names to faces and as Lesley is a fellow blogger, it was wonderful to chat about all things boatie and yes it did include loo's. Whilst we whiled away an hour we watch people coming and going from the sanitary station. The most noticeable coming and going was the hotel boats Oak and Ash. They were being turned around after watering up one boat. The steerer soaked everyone within reach with his prop wash and then went on to bellow instructions at his crew member and other boaters who he seemed to think were in his way. It was a joy to meet Lesley and the doggies and we wish them well with their new adventure. I am sincerely hoping we get to see them out and about on their new boat Yarwood.

Jo.

Also today Brian on nb Kyle arrived at Stourport, and we joined him and some of his friends for a drink at the Angel on the river front.

Keith.

Preparationd for the River

This morning I wanted to do 2 things, first check the prop and second get the anchor out ready.

I am glad I checked the prop as there was a bicycle inner tube wrapped around it with the usual assorted bits of plastic bags, string, etc. which was trapped by the inner tube. All nice and clear before setting off down the river.

Jo dug out the anchor, chain and warp from under all the bags of kindling in the hold. I attached the warp to the T-stud, and then attached the chain to the warp, and finally the chain to the anchor. We are trying something different this time. When we were on the River Thames 3 years ago, we had all the warp and chain on the deck, but this time I have stowed it in the front locker, with just the end of the warp coming out to the T-stud, and the chain to the anchor. Also previously we had the anchor standing vertically against the cratch board, this time we have it laid on top of the front locker hatch.

Another walk around town to see the shops we missed yesterday, especially the aquatic shop, some lovely fish in there. We can both picture what Marmite would be doing if we had an aquarium with fish in it, she would be polishing the glass with her paws, day and night!

Keith.

And this is Hadar moored up in Stourport upper basin, outside the Tontine.

Keith.

Kidderminster to Stourport

We are now enjoying the sunshine having travelled down from Kidderminster to Stourport this morning, in what was a fairly uneventful, but very scenic run. We are now moored in the upper basin at Stourport, outside the Tontine building. In fact where the working boat in the bottom left corner of the photo is moored. Lunch done, internet done, time to do the town whilst it isn't rain, not like 2 years ago.

Keith.

Severn Valley Railway

Jo and I have had a very pleasant day on the Severn Valley Railway today. We walked through Kidderminster to the railway station, where we bought our tickets and boarded the waiting train. On the journey there we saw this amazing poppy field.



We stayed on the train all the way to Bridgnorth, where we got off and had lunch in the refreshment room at the station before heading into the town for a wander around. We then caught the next train back but got off at Highley to have a cup of coffee at the new Engine Shed before wandering around the shed looking at the engines, coaches and wagons on display. This photo is the signal box at Highley.

This is a British Railways 9F engine at Bridgnorth. The very last steam engine to be built by British Railways was a 9F and was named Evening Star, and was also painted in green livery, which was really meant for express passenger engines and not freight engines like this.

This is the engine, a 5F, which had hauled the train we were on from Bridgnorth to Highley as it was leaving Highley station heading to Kidderminster.

As we were having our coffee at the Engine Shed at Highly this GWR Manor class Erlestoke Manor, No.7812, came chuffing up into Highley station from Kidderminster. This is the same class of engine as the large engine I built for my model railway, which is Fringford Manor No.7814.

And her she is again with an excellent rake of British Railways Custard & Cream coaches in tow.

Keith.

New Alternator

New alternator successfully picked up this morning, many thanks to Allspares, who supplied and delivered it very promptly to C.A. Stone in Kidderminster, who fitted the pulley off the old one for me, excellent service by both concerned. Just have to fit it, which if it is as easy as removing the old one it won't take much. Now recovering from the 2 mile round walk carrying first one then both! At least the return journey was downhill.

Update, new alternator fitted and working.

Keith.

Whittington to Kidderminster

2 Short journeys today. The first was to Evelyn & Graham Booths home, where we spent a very lovely couple of hours catching up on all their news. Evelyn did us a very nice salad for lunch, she is such a sweetie! We have left one of our Measham teapots with Graham to try to improve it's looks. This is one of the 3 teapots we bought at auction which Jo really likes, as it is larger than the others we have, a darker shade of glazing, and is the oldest of them, dating from 1879. We have seen some of Graham's previous restoration work and trust him to do his best for us.

Just as we set off the rain started but soon stopped by the time we got to the next lock. We arrived at the Sainsbury's moorings at Kidderminster to find them completely empty, where is everyone? Something we said? Comments on the back of a dirty postcard only please.

We will be staying here for the weekend. I received a message on my phone to say the alternator was due to be delivered at 3:00pm today, so tomorrow morning we will take the defunct one off the engine and take it to have the pulley swapped over. We have never been to Kidderminster before so are looking forward to exploring. I am especially interested in visiting the Severn Valley Railway, which I have travelled on before when my friend, who used to transport my exhibition model railway around the country, and I came this way to an exhibition at Telford in 1999, and we arrived early as Trevor wanted to take advantage of being this way to spend a whole day visiting the railway.

Keith.

Alternator Sorted, Hopefully.

Amazing thing the internet. I searched out the alternator manufacturer, Prestolite, and from their website I found the nearest distributor, Allspares, contacted them, they had one in stock, brilliant. When we got to Greensforge lock I went and asked 2 BW workmen sitting in their van if they were local to the area, they said no, but the man behind the van was, so I asked him if he knew anywhere in Kidderminster that could do work on an alternator. He did know of somewhere, but had to make a quick phone call as he couldn't remember the company name. Call made and it was C.A. Stone. A search on titnernet, and I had their phone number. Yes they could remove and fit the pulley and take delivery of the new alternator for me. Job done!!

A very happy Keith.

Swindon to Whittington

A cool start which as the morning got near to midday a slight drizzle started to appear, more annoying than anything really wet. We had intended to moor at Kinver, but no luck, all the moorings were taken, so we carried onto Whittington lock, and have moored up just below it, on a very nice mooring.

Further testing of the alternator yesterday proved it was completed legs up in the air, with no volts what so ever coming out of it.

Hopefully we can sort out a replacement fairly soon.

Keith.

Compton to Swindon

Sunshine!

Scorchio!

Then the domestic alternator packed up today. It has been playing up last couple of days, but now looks like it has gone completely. Have to find somewhere where we can get it replaced. So we have stopped at Swindon to do some further testing. Thank goodness we have the generator for little emergencies like this. Things got worse at Botterham staircase locks, where the intermediate gates and lock wall were leaking so badly I got a soaking, shirt and waistcoat now hanging up to dry. We will have a look around Swindon, although I suspect there isn't a lot here, apart from the 3 pubs that is.

Keith.

High Onn to Compton (Staffs & Worcs)

A dry start always goes down well, especially after the day long rain yesterday. What a fantastic finish to the Canadian Grand Prix, once it got going.

Don't always expect marked 48 hour ringed moorings to be deep. Today as we headed south and were approaching Autherley junction the engine temperature gauge started to climb. Why does it always do this at the most inapproriate time? Just as we were approaching a narrow section with a boat coming the other way, and Hadar grovelling about in shallow water, so lots of engine revs to get us off the mud, not good with the temperature rising. I knew there was a marked 48 hour ringed mooring a short distance ahead so I carried on to it. Well when I say "mooring" I am talking figuratively, we were 2ft from the bank! Still it had to do, as I stripped down the pump, removed the broken impellor and the 2 broken bits, fitted the new one, and put the pump back together again. Am I glad it is easy to get to and simple to change. We have removed that mooring site from our map.

We carried on to Autherley junction, and turned right heading down the Staffs & Worcs and moored at Compton, between the lock and the road bridge, opposite Lime Kiln Narrow Boats. Marmite is sitting eyeing up the chickens on the other side of the canal. We have not stopped here before so we wandered around to find a large Spar store, and some other useful shops. The Chippy sounded good, so we had cod & chips twice. I must remember in future to order just one portion of chips between the two of us! No TV signal here, so a DVD, or 2, is on the cards tonight.

Keith.

Oil Changes

It has been a busy morning, an oil change for the generator, this following an oil change for the engine yesterday. The 2nd sheet of sound proofing fixed to the underside of the generator shelf, a cable run through from the bed 'ole through the engine room behind the generator and calorifier, temperature reset on the immersion heater.

Keith.

Cross Green to High Onn Bridge.

An early start this morning, 5:50am paid off as we had a clear run through the narrows. Turning onto the Shroppie at Autherley junction, we headed for Wheaton Aston where we took on 425litres of diesel, and then continued on to High Onn Bridge where we winded ready to return to the Staffs & Worcs on Monday. We have met up with Roger and Sue on Dunham Dawdler moored here, they moor at Welford on the Welford arm.

Keith.

Penkridge to Fox & Anchor, Cross Green

A dry day today, although the black clouds did roll over just didn't deposit anything on us. A short day today. We have stopped at the Fox & Anchor, Cross Green for tonight, so we can get an early start tomorrow morning through the narrows before Autherley junction. We will be exploring Coven after lunch.

Keith.

Tixall Lock to Penkridge

A mixed bag of sunshine, showers and hailstones! Popped into Midland Chandlers to pick up some spare battery cut-off keys after the one that broke a few days ago.

We want to say a "Hi" to Bev & Roland on narrowboat Klara who we met at Longford lock.

As we were waiting for Longford lock, it started to rain which turned into hailstones, but only tiny ones, and not for long, what is up with our weather? Hail in June? Will be snowing next month!.We have just had lunch and will be visiting the market if it is still open.

Keith.

Stone to Tixall Lock

The day started dull and drizzly in patches, but changed to more showers with sunny periods as the day progressed. We arrived at Sandon lock to join a queue of boats, we were 6th in the queue. The bottom plate at the head of the lock had become detached, which BW had to come out and repair, which they had done promptly with 2 brand new shiney D shackles as can be seen in the photo.
Once through we pressed on with the intention to moor at Tixall Wide if there was room, which there wasn't so we carried on to above Tixall lock were we have moored and an excellent mooring it is too.

Keith.

Etruria to Stone

A dull start to this morning, but the sun eventually came out. An eventful trip today, as we had a lady boater fall in the canal above bottom Meaford lock as I was passing them in the pound. No damage done apart from her pride, but she was amazed she did not lose her glasses.

Keith.

Etruria Festival; The 2nd Day

Yet another great day here at Etruria, although there were some spits and spots of rain, it didn't dampen the spirits. Jo spent some time on the WoW stand with the children today. We had a steady flow of visitors asking us questions about Hadar, and our way of life, etc. We also met a few more friends from Tinternet, and was great to see them. We have thoroughly enjoyed our weekend here, and look forward to returning again in the future.

Keith.

Etruria Festival; The 1st Day

We have had a very busy day today, lots of people wanting to ask lots of questions, which makes a nice change. Met a few internet friends who turned up, which was great to see them. We finished the evening off with a massed take-out curry order. Jo and I have retired early as we are both pooped, and hardly able to keep our eyes open.

Keith.

Stone to Etruria

What a brilliant day weatherwise, as we moved from Stone to Etruria where we will be for the Festival weekend. We have just sat outside with all the other boaters attending the festival and had a superb fish & chip supper. We are looking forward to a busy weekend.

Keith.

Sweden being loaded with chippings at Lime Kiln Basin today, probably a long time since a wooden narrowboat has been loaded. Sweden and Tench are now ready to travel to the Etruria Festival this coming weekend, we hope to be joining them there.

Keith.

Battery Cut Off Switch Key Failure

Interesting, had a battery cut-off key fail today, whilst in the switch. It is mounted under the floor of the boatman's cabin so has not been knocked. It has snapped across where the brass key passes through the plastic body as can be seen in the photo.

Keith.

Tench being Loaded.

Working narrow boat Tench arrived at Lime Kiln Basin today and was loaded with bags of granite chippings. This is the first time her new owner Matt has loaded her. As I said to him you never forget your first load. I still vividly remember Hadar's first load which we took on at Lime Kiln Basin.

Keith.

King's Bromley to Stone

Not quite what we intended, as we had originally planned to stop at Great Haywood for the night and probably tomorrow as well with the weather forecast, but seeing as we got there at midday we decided to carry on, and then carry on and then carry on, and all of a sudden we were at Stone. As we cleared Lime Kiln lock Roger signalled us to pull into the basin, which was excellent. So we are set up for a week moored here whilst it is half term, which is great, half term is a time not to be moving around for various reasons. We have already seen quite a few friends upon our arrival, so plenty of time to catch up with them all.

Keith.

Hopwas to King's Bromley

Yet another very windy day, but at least the sun came out and it warmed up throughout the day. We arrived at Fradley junction and I phoned to book a BSS examination, which, as he is rather busy at the present, we have had to arrange for next week when we arrive at Stone. This done we carried onto King's Bromley as Fradley was plagued with mosquitos.

Waiting to go into Shade House lock at Fradley.

Keith.

Alvecote to Hopwas

Pheww!! What a windy day. A short run to Hopwas, taking on water at Fazeley Junction on the way. A lot of boats on the move today. In fact ever since we set off there have been a far more boats on the move from previous years. Is there something they know we don't? A large enough space outside the Tame Otter was awaiting us when we got here, which was great.

Keith.

Kangaroo Departs

We had a real treat yesterday to see Kangaroo depart her mooring at The Samuel Barlow, Alvecote. It is so nice to hear the sound of a Bolinder, it sounds so much better than our National.

Too Windy

Well so much for painting today, it is was too windy, so we went for a walk around the nature reserve this morning. We got an amazing view from the top of the old mine spoil heap, we could see for miles.

During the walk we heard some baby bird chirping from a hole in a tree, so after lunch Jo went back there with her camera and found out that it was a lesser spotted woodpecker.

Atherstone to Alvecote

A slightly warmer start to the day. We set off to finish going down the last 6 locks of the Atherstone flight. At the last lock we Andy was waiting to see us through. I thas been a day of meeting up with boaters we know. At Polesworth we spotted "First Fruits" moored up so we pulled in for a few minutes of chat with David And Viv. As we were chatting narrowboat "No Direction" passed by and we said a quick hello goddbye, then just after we set off we passed "Copperkilns II" and had a very quick chat with Elaine and her husband on their way to the Ashby Canal.

We arrived at Alvecote and have moored opposite the Samuel Barlow, where we will be moored for the weekend. If the weather is kind over the weekend Jo hopes we can get a 3rd and hopefully final coat of blue on the starboard cabinside.

Keith.

The Golden Age of Canals

"The Golden Age of Canals" is being re-run tonight on BBC4 at 8:00pm, just in case you missed it the first time.

Keith.

Hawkesbury to Atherstone flight

A much better morning weatherwise, no chilling wind, sunny periods, Got down to 2 shirts and a waistcoat by the time we got to the Atherstone flight. We had hoped to moor at the top of the locks, but no room, so we carried on down through lock 5 and the 7 day moorings above lock 6. Looking closely at the map, we could actually be closer to the High Street from here than from the top of the locks, and a more pleasant spot to moor, more countryfied rather than industrial and urban.

Keith.

Rugby to Hawkesbury Junction

A reasonable run today, starting at 8:45am, and mooring up at Hawkesbury at 1:25pm. Just as we approach the junction it started to drizzle, but stopped as soon as we moored up. A lot of boats on the move today. Not many moorings here though, and by the look of things I think the boats moored on the visitor moorings have been here for quite a while. Where is a patrol officer when you need one!

Keith.

Hillmorton to Rugby

A late start this morning, but only a short run to Master's Bridge. We walked into Rugby town centre, we haven't been here before. We did some much needed shopping, and had a nice lunch in the Royal Thai Cuisine restaurant. One of the items we bought was a travel kettle. I recently had this brainwave to save using gas to boil a kettle, especially on the move. A travel kettle boils enough water for 2 mugs, and it is very low power, so the invertor can cope with it quite nicely.

The Golden Age of Canals on BBC4

For those who missed the program "The Golden Age of Canals" on BBC4, you can view it on BBC iPlayer for the next 10 days. The very first opening sequence was filmed onboard Hadar, and Jo is interviewed towards the end of the program. Listen out for Hadar's engine.

The program will be repeated on BBC4 this Thursday at 8:00pm.

Keith.

Braunston to Hillmorton

A late start this morning as I waited for Tradline to open, and then I had to return in ½ hour to give them time to wind the 60m of line I wanted onto a reel. This line is to replace the tempory lines we made when Hadar was first launched to hold up the side cloths, and some rope to make a pair of answer lines, which I may need later this year.

A fairly uneventful run to Hillmorton locks, where we overtook 2 boats going the same direction. Granted one had stopped above the bottom lock to empty their elsan, but the other boat was in one of the bottom locks, and according to Jo they had tried to use the lock we went inot, but he couldn't open the gate, so they changed over to the other lock. This meant the first lock was full so Jo opened it up and we went through and left before them. Jo reckoned from the conversation between the 2 men they were trying to do it scientifically. So much for science, knowledge and muscles win the day everytime. Not wanting to arrive at Rugby to find no moorings we decided to moor up below the bottom lock, and leave arriving at Rugby till tomorrow morning.

Keith.

Braunston Locks

A dull morning, but great for moving, so we did, down through the locks and have moored outside Braunston Marina. Another visit to Midland Chandlers today, and Tradline tomorrow before we set off up the North Oxford Canal.

Kieth.

Mountain Barn Bridge to Top of Braunston Locks

We both definitely have the bug to get moving, so much so, that we broke our golden rule and travelled on a Saturday. A colder day, but at least it was dry, if windy, but with a load of coal in the hold the wind doesn't affect Hadar so much. The new prop is performing well, we can certainly stop a lot quicker, and have been running at lower engine revs for the same ground speed. Once we left the Leicester Line at Norton junction and into the deeper water of the Grand Union Main line we really noticed the difference, she motors along quite nicely now. We had thought of stopping just after Norton junction, but the ringed moorings were all taken, so we carried on to the top of Braunston locks and have moored here for the night.

Our Summer Holiday has Started Today

With a good internet connection today I have been able to upload some photos from our dry docking. This is me Monday pressure washing the hull ready for blacking.

This is Jo undercoating the stern Tuesday morning.

This is Hadar in all her new glory before setting off from Welford this morning. We took on 5tonnes of coal this morning, and then set off on our summer cruise. taking the first bit of the new blacking off in Welford lock.

We are now moored at Mountain Barn Bridge, and may well be here for the weekend.

Keith.

Still at Welford

We came out of the dry dock this morning, but have stayed at Welford as we have a coal delivery here tomorrow morning.

Keith.

Blacking Finished

This morning we finished the blacking with a 2nd and final coat. We are now waiting for it to dry so we can be refloated and out of the dry dock. We have been taking photos but our internet connection is not good here, so I will post some photos once we have a decent signal.

New Prop Fitted

Whilst Jo and I have been blacking and painting Hadar, Les has fitted the new prop. This photo shows the two props the new one is the shiney one. This photo clearly shows the difference between the two. They are both 22" dia, but the new prop has 2" wider blades, thus this should give it the required extra water movement to be equivalent to a 27" prop.

The new prop is fitted.

If you know anyone who wants a 22" by 22" prop the old one is for sale, and as can be seen it has hardly any damage.

Keith.

Just What We Need

I like it when it rains overnight and then the sun shines in the morning. Much needed rain of course, for farmers, gardeners and boaters alike.

Painting the bow.

Yesterday whilst the sun shone, I managed to start work on painting the bow. I rubbed it all down and then undercoated the red area with this rather natty pink undercoat from Midland Chandlers. With it being so warm the undercoat dried in no time, so I then glossed the white border as well. Just as well I was not trying to do it today, because it is certainly not the weather painting.

Jo

Rain at Last!

Some rain at last, but no where near enough though. Equivalent to spitting in a cup of tea!

Welford Junction to Welford Wharf

A short trip up the Welford arm and an empty mooring at the Wharf did nicely for us to be ready to go into the dry dock Monday morning. We popped round to see Les to let him know we had arrived, and he showed us the new prop which had arrived. Look at the blades on that! The increase in blade area can be clearly seen compared to a standard prop, which will compensate for the small 22" diameter. When we take the old prop off I will take a photo of them side-by-side for a better comparison.



Keith.

Mountain Barn Bridge to Welford Junction

Another cool start to the day, and only a short run to Welford Junction, where we are now ready to go up the Welford Arm tomorrow, ready for dry docking Monday. The sun has just started to break through the clouds, so hopefully it may warm up a bit this afternoon.

Braunston to Mountain Barn Bridge

A good run up through Braunston locks this morning, stopping briefly halfway up to say cheerio to Ray and Jackie on Roehaise, who are returning to the land. Watford locks were very quiet and we came straight up them as soon as we had arrived. As we were passing a field of cows near Bridge 25 one of them decided to take a swim in the canal, so we stopped and Jo went to find someone to let them know. We have moored at Mountain Barn Bridge to enjoy the rest of the sunny afternoon, whilst it is here.

Keith.

Hadar moored at Braunston, the moorings between the 2 marina entrance bridges are completely empty, very different from when we passed through Thursday. Just after we had moved here from the Boathouse moorings, "Dover" came out of the marina, winded and returned into the marina. Have we just witnessed it's annual journey?

Bridge 103 to Braunston

A very windy day, which made it a bit interesting travelling this morning. I am convinced that these strong winds will remain with us until we load with coal, whilst the bow is light and vulnerable to wind.

We were able to moor at The Boathouse, and visited Midland Chandlers for some bits. We returned to the boat and had lunch at The Boathouse, before returning to Midland Chandlers for some other bits, which we needed to take measurments on the boat for. During our first visit to MC, we noticed Narrowboat "Boston" moored on the towpath opposite, so on our 2nd visit we decided to return via the towpath to see how Bruce was doing. He was looking very good and back to his old self, thank goodness. We took a long time to get back to Hadar, as we then chatted to and had coffee with Anne & Keith on "Oakfield" and then chatted to Tim & Jo on "Hampton".

Norton Junction to Bridge 103, Lower Shuckburgh

Yet another cold morning, and an early start too, 6:00am. Braunston tunnel was warm, warmer than outside. Only the top lock at Braunston was against us, which makes a nice change, and we met a few boats travelling up the flight. We moored up near Brass Farthing, the bike shop boat, which was moored between Bridge 108 and Napton junction, and awaited Graham to turn up, which he did early than promised, and we sold my bike to him, chatted for a bit, then Tom on Archimedes arrived and Jo chatted briefly to him, ordering some toilet blue to be delivered with our next coal delivery. Tom zoomed off, as he has to be in London tomorrow, not bad as he only set off from Ellesmere Port Tuesday morning. He and James are doing 12 hour shifts, running both day and night. James has the night shift. We winded at Napton junction, to pass Andy from facebook going the other way. We have moored up near bridge 103, with a great view across the countryside for another long weekend, all we need now is the weather.

Keith.

Crick to Norton Junction

Bit of a late start at 8:40am this morning, but we weren't too bothered as Watford locks didn't open till 8:30am. We arrived there to be number 3 going down, but we had to wait for four boats to come up. The lock keepers have spruced up the outside of their office at the top lock with bunting and union jacks, very festive for the forthcoming wedding.

Having cleared the locks we decided to overnight at Norton junction and get an early start tomorrow morning for Braunston, hopefully to avoid the queues at the locks! I will let you know tomorrow if we were successful.

Keith.

Foxton Locks to Crick

What a difference in the weather today, we are back to winter conditions, brrrrr. WE set off from Foxton locks at 8:00am and arrived at Crick at 1:45pm, not a bad run, despite every man and his dog out on the water, especially at bridge 'oles. We visited Richard and Chrissie in Digitalis to pass on a letter that had arrived at Union Wharf for them, yes we now into postal services, :-)

Then we walked into Crick village to do some shopping at the Post Office and Co-op. On the way back I snapped this shot of the spread of dandelions on the path back to the canal. Someone needs to spread a bit of Weedol around me thinks!

Keith.

Summer Sunshine

What another cracking day weatherwise. It has been a very busy weekend here at Foxton locks. Even the lock keepers have never seen so many visitors. They had to open up the overflow car park and that filled up! We are now looking forward to setting off tomorrow for fields anew once we get past the winding hole at the M1 bridge above Watford locks.

Hadar Trading Company

Hadar all set up for trading at the top of Foxton locks. We managed to sell a few items, the most popular were Jo's hand knitted dish cloths, and the signs we had which say "Lovely lady and grumpy old man live here" sold out! Mind you we only had 3 to start with to see how they go. We obviously need to stock up on them if they sell that well. It was interesting that it was the ladies passing by who noticed them and thought they were funny. Says it all really.

Jo spent most of the afternoon knitting more dish cloths to keep up with the demand, they were selling faster than she could knit them!

Keith.

Union Wharf to Foxton Top Lock

We finally broke free from the magnetic pull, that seems to try to keep us in Harborough, this morning on what was to be a hot and sunny days trip. Having arrived at the bottom fo Foxton locks we were 5th in the queue, awaiting for the boats coming down the hill. It took us an hour to clear the locks, which normally takes as 45, so not too bad really. We are now moored at the top of the locks where we will be for the long weekend, hopefully selling lots of stuff.

Keith.

Repaired Washing Machine

Our repaired washing machine was returned this morning. The delivery man showed us the damaged spider and drum as can be seen in the photo. the spider was so corroded that one of the arms had split.

Keith.

Happy Birthday Jo

I want to wish my lovely wife a Happy Birthday today. We are having a meal out tonight at the Waterfront restaurant here at Union Wharf.

Keith.

Washing Machine Repairs

I have just had a phone call to say the replacement parts for our washing machine have arrived, and will be fitted this afternoon. We decided to return to Harborough today so we are ready for the washing machine to be delivered in the morning.

Keith

The last piece of old blue has now gone with the painting of the cants on the stern, Hadar is now sporting her full correct colour scheme, albeit we still need to apply a few more coats, but at least she is all the same colour blue now.

Logan Street Wharf to Gallows Hill

Our washing machine was collected this morning, so we decided to head out into the countryside to await its repair. Hopefully we will get a first coat of the new blue on the starboard cabinside, which is the last bit that needs painting. Well when I say last, not quite, the cants need painting, but we can't do them until we go into dry dock and have to take the rear fenders off.

Well we did get the first coat on, and apart from a further 2 coats to go on, and the cants, Hadar is now looking like she should do, and we are so glad we decided to change the blue.

Just before I started to paint I received a phone call about our washing machine, they had found the spider (whatever that is) was corroded and needed replacing. One has been ordered and we await the phone call to say it has been delivered and fitted.

We have decided not to wait for dry docking to paint the cants, if the weather is fine tomorrow we will start on them and just paint around the fender chains for now.


Keith.

Swans a Nesting

Our local pair of swans have started to build their nest. We weren't too sure if they were going to this year, but I spotted them building and photographed them.

Both of them inspecting their work so far.

One of them building the nest, this may be the Pen.

Keith.

Union Wharf to Logan St. Wharf

Another of those really taxing journeys, which took all of 5 minutes. Although we had intended to head off this morning, following a great night out last night at the "Battle of the DJ's" to raise much needed money for the local radio station Hfm now that their funding has been cut, we are now having to hang around in Harborough to get our washing machine fixed, which is still not working right. At least we are in no rush.

Leicester

We have had a lovely day in Leicester today. We went up by bus this morning, to do some shopping, before setting off on our summer cruising, for some essentials. I upgraded one of our internet dongles, as the original one that Jo had been using was a bit temperamental at times, and hopefully the new one, which I am using will run better with Windows 7, which it seems to be doing so far. Jo has my original dongle, which performs much better on her laptop than her old dongle, which has been consigned to the drawer as a spare. We had lunch at our favourite Chinese buffet restaurant, excellent as always, one of only a few I know that can actually cook their beef dishes, and it isn't chewy like rubber. There was a continental market on today, and there were many stalls in the main streets, selling their wares. We did buy some much needed new clothing for the forthcoming summer, socks, underwear and polo shirts, which was the major reason for our trip to the city. On the way home we shared the bus with Peter who, with Ann his wife, live in one of the apartments at Union Wharf.

Logan Street Wharf to Union Wharf

This morning we went to the auction at Gildings and I bid on and bought a set of 3 graduated Measham jugs. Jo was less successful with her choice of lot, a pile of lace tablecloths and various bits and pieces of lace, along with a lacemakers cushion and all the bobbins. She had set herself a limit of £40, but they went for £250, a tad more than she was prepared to pay. Upon returning to the boat we decided to wind in the basin and moor on the towpath, ready for our Tesco delivery tomorrow. A really taxing journey.

Clarkes Bridge to Logan Street Wharf

After the last few hot days, this morning had a chill to it. We set off and moored at Logan Street Wharf just outside Union Wharf. We went to the inaugaral meeting of a volunteer group who hope to adopt the towpath from Union Wharf to Bridge 14 to keep it tidy, and do some general maintenance. The adoption is being sponsered by Polly and Miles of Paws 4 Walking, as they and their staff regularly use the canal towpath for their dog walking, and as a responsible company who like to look after the canal towpath, for all to enjoy, but regularly notice how many dog owners are not very caring about what their dogs do and where. But not just dog mess, general litter, etc. as of course the council are not responsible for maintaining the towpath in a clean condition, like they are wth the streets and pavements. There was an enthusiastic turnout upstairs at the Waterfront Restaurant. There were representatives from the local BW land crew, whose responsibility for running such volunteer groups comes within their jurisdiction, as they will be supplying the hardware, any necessary training, and of course the necessary H&S regulations, they had quite a bit to say. There were many questions from the floor, and at the end of the meeting many of us set off down the towpath with the BW staff, to look at what needed to be done initially and in the future. In all a very productive morning, and a lot of enthusiasm was very noticable. Jo and myself of course are restricted to only being around during the winter, but I am sure our help will be most appreciated when we can offer it. We will be moored at Logan Street Wharf until Saturday morning.

Hadar's New Summer Curtains

For nearly 4 years now, ever since we moved onboard, Jo has been looking for the right material for a set of summer curtains for the boatman's cabin. Last week in Harborough she found what she has been looking for, and today finished making them. Don't they look grand. Paddy looks very impressed.

Even More Painting

Yet another busy day painting today. Jo put another coat of dark blue gloss on the cratch, a further coat of the new blue on the port engine room doors and frame, and the starboard engine room hatch. I did further touching up of the coachline between the red an blue on the cabinsides, then finished off the 2nd water can's sign writing, and gave the headlamp case a coat of black. Good thing I did too, as I discovered that the cable connection in the deck plug was next to useless, and I wondered how it ever worked! Yesterday evening we both set about putting back the ribbon and lace plates behind the boatman's cabin stove, rearranging them and getting more in the space with them sorted our properly, and not the higgledy piggledy mix previously. Today Jo finished the stove area off, giving the stove a coat of blacking, and the copper kettle even got a much needed polish, and very smart it all looks too. Keith.

More Painting

Jo and I have been busy today painting. Jo put a 3rd coat of the new blue on the port cabinside and boatman's cabin bulkhead, a 2nd coat on the starboard engine 'ole frame and a 1st coat on the top of the boatman's cabin slide, then a coat of white also on the slide. I painted the white bands and the edge of the pouring spout on the 2nd water can, which is now ready for sign writing, and a coat of the new blue on the bucket. Jo is now painting the bow blue.

Water Cans & Bucket

Boatman's Cabin Slide

Newly Painted Bow

New Mop for Hadar

This is the new mop that Jo and I completed today. Jo has spent a few days painting the pole, and today we fitted the home made mop head. Many thanks to Tina who told Jo how to make this type of mop head.

Black Horse Bridge to Clarkes Bridge

Having done some boat painting, made a new mop, and our Tesco delivery arrived, we returned to the mooring at Clarkes Bridge where we will be for the weekend, and hopefully a sunny one.

Clarkes Bridge to Black Horse Bridge

We winded at Foxton Junction, then returned to Black Horse Bridge ready to pick up our Tesco delivery later this afternoon. The wind that was supposed to have eased overnight hasn't. I am convinced it will not go now until we have taken on coal, so it will remain whilst we are bow light and vulnerable to wind. Be prepared for a long period of wind as we not taking on coal for a long time. Keith.

Bow well out of the water.

Bridge No. 14 to Clarkes Bridge No. 5

Keith had his crown fitted this morning, a gold one this time. After lunch we then set off for Clarkes Bridge, despite the strong winds best effort to make life difficult.

Foxton Junction to Bridge 14.

Another windswept trip this morning, to the Old Union Canal moorings at Bridge 14. Before we set off, we were present at the unveiling of the Transport Trust plaque at the Foxton Canal Museum.

Would You Fish Here?

If you were given fishing peg 22, would you fish here?

Gallows Hill to Foxton Junction.

For the first time in nearly four years since we started out on Hadar we had to use a pole to get off a mooring, it was blowing a hooley!!! Keith tried his usual trick which normally works of leaving the stern tied to a mooring ring and runnning astern, but she was having none of it, so Jo had to pole the bow out, which was no mean feat. Having cleared the mooring the wind dropped so much so that having got to Foxton Junction Keith winded before mooring up on the far side of Rainbow bridge, which he wasn't going to do the the strong wind we had experienced. We are now here for the weekend.

Union Wharf to Gallows Hill

Having bought a new pair of going out shoes for Keith this morning, we set off to Gallows Hill, so as to free up a space at the visitor moorings at Union Wharf. Although we could moor there for 48 hours we don't like to stop there if we have no need, stopping other people mooring there. Shame not many other boaters don't think like us. Mind you saying that there were other spaces, but it is the principle of the thing. Not only that, now we have finished our coal run we prefer to moor out in the beautiful countryside.

Foxton Top Lock to Union Wharf

With the threat of rain in yesterdays weather forecast, we set off down through the Foxton locks and onward to Union Wharf for lunch. Hopefully we can get a replacement part for the washing machine ordered today. Yesterday Keith received a voicemail on his phone to say our new prop is ready for despatch, and needs paying for, ouch! there is always a downside, lol.

Symbolds Spinney to Welford to Foxton Top Lock

Definitely a good day for travelling, warm, sunny, no wind. We arrived at Welford, delivered our last few bags of coal, then had lunch at the Wharf Inn. We both had the Haddock, large size, which consists of two pieces of fish instead of one. We both soon polished it off to the surprise of the people on the next table. Then we decided to carry on to Foxton top lock, so it has been a longish day.

Washing Machine Strip Down

With another misty start to the morning we decided to strip the washing machine down to find out why it has been misbehaving, whilst waiting to start the next coat of paint on the cabinside. Recent we had problems with running the washing machine, and finding a horrible black sludge trapped in the drain pump filter, and Jo complaining of a horrible smell and smoke coming from the machine. As my smell senses are not the best I took her word for it. So we dragged the machine out into the galley and started taking it apart. Having removed panels, and pipework, I took out the drain pump and whilst drying it with a cloth noticed very black water coming from the rubber ring seal, so I removed the ring, and the black water was coming from behind this, and ultimately from the motor part of the pump. It looks like a new pump is needed, so we have left it out and put the washing machine temporarily in the hold until I can get a replacement pump. Hopefully it won't take too long to source one once we are back in Harborough. Having got as far as I could with this and I started to clear up inside the galley, Jo made a start on the 2nd coat of blue on the cabinside. having finished tidying up I joined Jo outside and put another coat of blue on the large mop pole, and a 1st coat of blue on my 2nd water can.

Hadar's Repaint Cont.d

Today we managed to put a 1st coat of the correct blue on the port cabinside and a 2nd coat on the rear bulhead and doors, a very big step in the "Great Repaint" and the one which worried us most, no turning back now!

We are really pleased we decided to change the blue. We have thought about for a long time, not being too sure about doing it ourselves, but it is going well and we are more than pleased with the result. Hadar looks so much better now. It is surprising how the darker shade of blue makes the red stand out more. It will look even better with a good polish when finished.

Hadars Exemption

Great News!!!!

We heard yesterday by email that Hadar has her BSS exemption for not having a silencer fitted to her engine. We just have to wait for the letter to arrive by post. We appreciate very much the hard work that Philip Rickett did for us on our behalf representing us at the BSS technical committee.

Hadar's Repaint cont.d

Friday was a great painting day and we spent over 8 hours painting, and got a lot more done than we thought we would. Jo finished blacking the inside of the locker, painted the new blue around the frame of the gas locker hatch, the front cross member below the cratch, front cross member on the forward cabin roof, engine room hatches, rear cabin bulkhead and rear doors and mops. Jo also painted the engine room floor. I completed the sign writing on the 1st water can which is now finished, and put the 2nd coat of primer on the 2nd water can, then prepared the boatmans cabin slide ready for painting. Then between us both we masked up the port cabin side ready to repaint, which we will do today when the mist has cleared and it has warmed up a bit.

Hadar's Repaint cont.d

Thursday was a busy day. We got quite a bit of painting done. Jo touched up the blacking to the bow to give it some protection until we dry dock in May, then we moved to the next winding hole just beyond Bridge 36 and returned to the Symbolds Spinney mooring and Jo touched up the blacking on the other bow. Of course "touch up" is a figure of speech, it needed quite a bit of blacking having broken a lot ice at the end of last year.

Black Horse Bridge, Foxton to Symbolds Spinney Mooring

With misty start which soon cleared to reveal a lovely sunny and warm morning. Glyn the lockie had to help us thorough the locks this morning as they have a section fenced off whilst repairing the damaged pathways alongside the locks. Due to H&S he was the only person allowed in the fenced off area.

We have stopped at a new mooring, near Symbolds Spinney, midway between bridge 38 & 39. We are spending the weekend here painting Hadar, and if this weather holds we may even get the majority of the blue repainted. Jo is inside the gas locker at the moment, blacking the inside. I better go and help!

Union Wharf to Black Horse Bridge, Foxton

What a cracking journey this morning, warm sunshine, birds singing, squirrels and rabbits frolicing. We await our Tesco delivery.

Foxton Locks to Union Wharf

Well summer is definitely here with a warm sunny trip to Union Wharf. We had our last lunch on our voucher at the Angel Hotel. Popped into Hfm studios to pick up our tickets for the battle of the DJ's and for Jo to see the new studios. Received our Census form in the post, which is amazing as we are not on the electoral roll, and even amazed the girl at the Council Offices as we popped in to register for the electoral roll. I wonder how they found us? lol.

Hadar's Repaint

Well the great repaint of Hadar started yesterday. With the warm sunshine the conditions were right to make a start on repainting the blue in the correct shade, Lauderdale Blue, so for a while she may be sporting two differents shades, lol. Already we are preferring the correct colour. Jo also painted the forward bulkhead which had been painted in the blue, but we have decided to change it to red oxide as can be seen in the photo.


At the time of Hadar's original painting I could not decide which way to go and opted for the blue, which upon reflection, was the wrong decision. Having changed one side yesterday it already looks much better. It also means where we have the rings on the bulkhead rails, the damage and rust won't show up so much. Also in the photo can be seen the pigeon box and the further cross beam in the new blue.

I have restarted the 1st of my new water cans, just have to sign write the name on the front. I will start the 2nd one today with the 1st coat of primer. I have donated the 2 old ones to the Foxton Canal Museum. This new water can is in the photo.

Foxton Top Lock to Foxton Junction

A fairly uneventful trip down through the locks. We had the new lock keeper Glyn on today, he was getting to know the ins and outs. Now moored up at our favourite spot at the junction opposite Foxton Locks Inn and Bridge 61. We will be here for the weekend.

Watford Locks Stoppage.

The top gate of lock 6 of the Watford locks on the Grand Union canal was temporarily repaired in the summer of 2010. The gate now needs to be replaced and the lock flight will be closed from 21st to 25th March 2011 to allow this work to be done.

There will be no passage through the locks during this time

Laughton Hills to Foxton top lock.

Yet another foggy day, but still a pleasant run to Foxton top lock. We passed Jackie and Ray on RoeHaise heading off to the River Nene, although we may see them at Crick on our return trip.

Welford to Laughton Hills

We have moved this morning to Laughton Hills and we would have a lovely view of them if it wasn't for the fog!

Downton Bridge to Welford

We have had a busy morning sell coal on our journey and here at Welford, just over half a tonne. The hold is looking very bare, hopefully we have enough to last us till the end of the month.

Crick to Downton Bridge 36

A superb spring morning's run today. The flowers are starting to appear, along with blossom and leaves on the trees. We are moored at Downton Bridge 36 and it is a lovely afternoon. Marmite is enjoying being able to roll about on the towpath.

Foxton Top Lock to Crick

Having set off late yesterday after Keith collected his new laptop, we were a day behind so we set off early this morning, 6:25am to be precise, and passed Welford junction where we would have normally stopped, at about the time we ould have normally set off, and arrived at Crick after 5¾hrs. It is surprising how much fast Hadar moves when light on coal, about 2 tonnes left, without making any more wash.

Black Horse Bridge to Top of Foxton Locks

Having placed an online order for a new laptop on Tuesday it was due to arrive today, which it did at about 11:30 this morning, so Keith caught the bus into Harborough to pick it up, and upon returning we still had time to deliver some coal and get up through the locks befoer they were shut. Time to play with my new computer now :-))

Union Wharf to Black Horse Bridge, Foxton.

We winded in the basin, took on water, disposed of rubbish, etc. Then we headed off for Foxton, and Black Horse Bridge where we are awaiting our Tesco delivery later this afternoon.

Foxton to Market Harborough

A nice sunny mornings trip to Union Wharf this morning. There was plenty of space on the towpath moorings, in fact no one else here! We had our second discounted lunch at the Angel Hotel today, 15% off. Did some general shopping, but mostly stocking up with rollers, paint brushes, etc. ready for when we dry dock in May.

Foxton locks

A much brighter start to the morning, so a very pleasant run down through Foxton locks, with one coal deliver at the bottom of the locks. We are now moored up the Harborough arm just after the swing footbridge, where we will be for the weekend and the sun has come out. Paddy thinks he is a terrier, digging down a rabbit hole with no thought about how he was going to get out!! Stupid dog.

Welford to Foxton top lock

Both Jo and I have just had colds, I caught mine from Jo, lol. Having arrived at Welford Tuesday, I crashed out all day yesterday and have almost recovered. Busy morning selling 15 bags of coal on our way to Foxton top lock, this despite it being very raw today. Still nicely tucked up inside in the warm eating cheese on toast, Yum Yum.

Mountain Barn Bridge to Welford Wharf

We are now moored at Welford Wharf. At least it has been dry today if cold. We will spend a couple of days here.