We delayed our departure from Blisworth for the very short run down to Stoke Bruerne for a while, completing a few additional maintenance tasks. We did notice that the canal had become very busy, with boats passing very regularly - the large numbers of big new marinas built in this area are no doubt a prime reason for this.
We did finally get going, having sorted logistics for Blisworth Tunnel. I would lead, alone, on Sickle, David would steer Chalice through behind, with Cath also on Chalice. Sickle is still running with a less than ideal temporary tunnel light - the bulb ordered for it's proper light not having arrived before our journey started. The temporary light had to be taped on, and switched on as we left Blisworth, as I was on my own, and the switch is in the engine room!
However at the very first bridge there were around half a dozen boats in slow procession coming the other way. As I pulled up with Sickle, the nose swung hard to the left, blocking their approach, just as the engine decided to die on me - not ideal! Fortunately somone came to my aid, and once I had sorted myself, six boats took an impressively long while to negotiate just one bridge, (perhaps two of them might have done better if not distracted by using CB radio!).
A rather different ice boat to Sickle, but still a beauty. |
We found satisfactory mooring spots after the tunnel, and mixed further painting with a quick trip to the pub to give it time to dry!
Sickle cleared and locked up. |
Sharing the bottom lock at Stoke Bruerne |
Blisworth to Yardley Gobion
Miles: 6.8, Locks: 7
Total Miles: 66.0, Total Locks:30
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