Back on the Macc.

Yesterday we continued our stay in Bugsworth basin. Had a walk into Whaley bridge and then called into Tesco's on the way back.  So well stocked up now.

It was a better day than forecast and so Ali just could not resist getting the paint brush out to touch up a few wounds on the gloss below the gunwale.  Ideal spot for this, nice straight stone bank and as the water level has recovered, it made the touching up a lot easier. 

We must be doing something right as our battery bank seems remarkably resilient.  24 Hours of usage and still 87 percent on the smartguage. We could easily go two days without recharging, but topped up between 5pm and 7.15 pm anyway as this also gives us a tank of hot water.

The basin remained quiet, had a wander and counted only ten boats.  Perhaps the low water levels experienced of late have dissuaded people from venturing this far?  Still, made our stay very pleasant.

This morning we showered, watered up at the very clean services and made our way back from whence we came.  We had a relatively early start, as we planned to stop at Marple in order to use the Launderette. We passed only four or five boats on the trip and with more water available, progress was far easier. The swing/lift bridges were tackled with ease, Ali walking between three of these as they are in fairly close proximity.  Strange day weather wise. Warm in the sun, but cold in the shade and with some threatening clouds. There are some lovely views across the Goyt valley along this section, hard to believe we are so near to Manchester.

As we approached Marple, Ali walked ahead to check out the junction and the mooring situation, the "Walkie Talkies" coming into their own once again.  Good job she did as a boat was proceeding from the Macc almost oblivious that the were approaching a junction with a blind turn.

So we turned onto the Macc and the visitor moorings opposite the services were empty! So dodged in and took up the prime position. 

After a spot to eat, Ali walked to the Launderette.  She is not impressed with the staff/owner as after arriving just after 1200, she was told it was closing until 2pm she did say Ali could load up the washing machine and come back later to dry it, which she did.

Since arriving there has been an increase in boat movements and it was probably wise to moor up when we did. On a canal with so few accessible moorings, it pays to start early and stop early in order to get a prime spot.

Had a walk around the town and as we are moored so near, it would be a crime not to visit the Ring O Bells....

So we are back on the Macc, just.....

P.S. Been to the Ring O Bells for a meal. Great food and a lovely drop of Robinsons.  Well worth a visit if you are in the area.

Lovely colours in the summer flowers

 Turning back onto the Macc - will he make it?

Its looking close - watch that paintwork!

Made it!

Isn't nature brilliant - this is growing out of a wall and its beautiful

Miles. 6
Swing/lift bridges 4