Friday, 29 June 2012

Light showers! We think not!

We had a relaxed start this morning, setting off a little after 10 in cloudy but dry conditions. The move was accelerated when we saw N.B. Holly setting off, who informed us a widebeam was just about to leave the lock below us. We decided to double up with them for the rest of the Gargrave locks and Bank Newton locks which are in close proximity.

The BBC weather forcast said light showers today..... It Persisted it down for most of the morning! We had no sooner reached the first lock when the heavens opened. We decided to carry on and not until we had completed all the locks for the day did it abate. We were shall we say somewhat damp!  Due to the weather, the camera stayed indoors all toasty and warm so no pictures of the horrid conditions.

After the Bank Newton locks and with the sky clearing we decided to stop for the day. We had decided to go no further than East Marton today anyway, but about half a mile prior to this, the canal loops around the valley side, doubling back on itself and offers fabulous views. One section of Armco just long enough for the boat came into view, amidst what otherwise is concrete banking and so we moored.  A bench marks this as a fovourite spot for a past boater and I can only agree it is a special spot.  No road or rail intrudes and the sound of the curlew's call is haunting.

The sun made an appearance after we had lunched and Ali decided it was too good an oportunity to miss giving the boat an exterior wash. The recent humid and wet weather seems to have included a fair amount of what I assume is fine sand particles possibly picked up over the sahara.  Even the downpours over the last few days failed to remove the residue, so with mop, bucket and cloth in hand we set to.  I must admit, the hard work has paid off and the boat now once again gleams.

An evening watching tennis, can Federer survive?

Just to say congratulations to my niece and nephew, Michelle and Craig, who have this week had their results from University. Both getting a 2:1. Well done both. You have both done yourselves and Mum and Dad proud. Enjoy.

View from our moorings




Lovely flowers on the tow path


Michelle at her graduation today (on the left)

3.5 miles 9 locks 


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