Heartbreak Hill continued

Last time we did this stretch of the Trent and Mersey we did from just north of the tunnel onto the Middlewich branch in one day, 31 locks, 13 miles and 11.5 hours of cruising.  Today we have done slightly less (well much less) but these days we can take it steady.  We were 'entertained' by the bell ringers at Church Lawton last night.  This morning it was a little breezy to say the least, we set off not planning to go very far.

We were followed to our first lock of the day by a boat that was singled handed.  Most of these locks are pairs so me being the kind person I am was filling the other chamber when possible to help him out as there was very little traffic.  Our planned mooring for today was subject to horrendous noise from the M6 as the wind was in the wrong direction, so we decided to stop for lunch at Hassel Green and were passed by the single handed boat, with his crew!!  and so we then followed them, did they repay the kindness, not once!   We have continued to Malkins Bank.  

'Heartbreak Hill' is the nickname for this heavily stretched section of canal although the old boatmen called it the Cheshire Locks.

4.5 miles 18 locks