OUR
SHELL ARRIVEDChapter 5: A New Way Of Life, 1999-2000
OUR FUTURE
The start of the year finds us with our own boat Nomad of Erehwon. Terry & Myra now have their own Butty Lark moored in the same marina at Ham Manor Basin. It had been decided that we all would like to live on boats and explore other canals at our leisure sometime in the future. Terry had already been given his 'Golden Handshake'.
GET WARMED UP
When we arrived Terry & Myra gave us a cup of tea on their boat while an electric fire on Nomad took away the chill of January. Then we all went off by car to look at a second hand boat which promised to be worth a look. But the fit out was disappointing. On returning we found Nomad cosy and warm. We set about checking the batteries, charging them up and lighting the fire before going to bed.
Woke at 7 with the fire just about going. Boosted it with more wood and coal. The electric fire was at the bedroom end with the coal fire at the other. It rained during the night and water was dribbling down the chimney! Another maintenance job on the list which never gets any shorter! Only 1 kW used to keep the boat and us cosy over night. Ann varnished all the window ledges while I attended to the engine before running it till it got nice and warm. Work is getting very stressful and having the boat provides a pleasant distraction. Or is it the other way round now? (Work is the distraction). Left our friends on their boat and returned home.
ANOTHER WEEKEND
It was the middle of February before we could get back. Family need our time at weekends as well. It only takes an hour to get to the boat from home and getting away on a Friday evening is great. Arrived with cat and dog for the weekend. Our friends on their boat and had kindly switched the electric fire on in Nomad. We got the coal fire going and had the dinner which Ann had prepared before we left home. A casserole which was heated up in the oven. After Tara the cat had finished prowling around the boat she finally settled in her basket in the cabin. Then Terry & Myra came round to discuss where we were to go for the first weekend away on both boats. For they are wanting to move as well. On this Kennet and Avon canal the choice is only east or west!
GO EAST WITH TWO BOATS
Next day we went east in the morning. Widmead lock is flooded as the river Kennet was well up. This may well have influenced our decision to turn left as it was easier to let the water push us that way! We stopped below Monkey Marsh Lock for lunch in warm sunshine. Great to be out and about. The two boats and four crew making it easier to travel. The wide locks letting both boats in. We continued to one of our favourite spots at Midgham where we found several other boats had got there earlier. Terry turned round and moored up against the grassy edge with the plank to get off and I did the same behind Butty Lark. After a game of Mah-jongg on we all had diner on Nomad. Then back to Butty Lark to watch their colour TV. Tara the cat is happier now that we are not moving. After a dry warm day it is frosty outside now but the fire has been going all day to keep us warm.
Got up early next morning to get the fire going with more coal and open it up. By breakfast time it was cosy and warm again. We set off back mid morning against the fast flowing river Kennet. Crunched some ice which remained in sheltered spots. Getting into Ham Manor Basin can be a bit tricky with the high river flow and we made it into the narrow angled entrance almost without hitting the sides!
LOOKING FOR A BOAT
Near the end of the month we were up on the boat again. It was raining as we unpacked the car. The wheelbarrow provided a quick and easy method of transporting the 'stuff' to the boat. Lit the fire and got the cat and dog settled in before joining our friends at the local 'Swan' for dinner.
Next day we got up early and set off to Leicester in the car. Having seen some second hand boats we wanted to consider the possibility of having one built to our own specification. Went to 'River View Boats' to see what they can offer. Very promising. We now had a better idea of what to expect and how much to pay for a new boat. Returned to Butty Lark for a meal provided by Myra. Then talked a lot about our future together. It had been a dry warm day and we felt that we had achieved some thing to day. Ran the engine an hour for the batteries. Terry came round with his new hose brush and we washed both sides of the boat. Looking after our investment.
MAINTENANCE
A month later we returned at the end of March. A working day. Changed the oil in the gear box. Replaced the fuel filter and cleaned out the water trap. Relieved to get the engine started again after that job! Nomad only has two batteries, both Leisure types one of which is used as the starter. This is not ideal but swapping the connections each year helps them both. Next job was to refill the tank with water after the winter and get cold water running again. A gas heater provides the hot water. Then went to pay for our BW Licence at the office and paid our respects to John Gould who had died last week. He was the man who last used this canal with his working boat. Then campaigned to keep it open by forming the Kennet & Avon Canal Trust.
ANNUAL EASTER RACE
Easter came early this year at the start of April and we were back on our boats again. Departed on Friday morning. Both boats going east this time. We were joined by a third boat when we got to Monkey Marsh Lock. The lock is large enough for us all. Stopped later at Midgham. The Easter canoe race sets off from Devizes heading all the way to Westminster on the Thames. The first canoe with two on board were about to pass us. We watched as they got out to carry the canoe past the lock.
Next day we cooked porridge on the fire which Ann had fed with coal earlier. As we ate it more canoes passed by. Our cat is enjoying the view from the window. Apart from seeing the canoes go by she watched a pair of ducks being fed with bread. Then Ann took Tara out for a walk with harness and lead. ‘An unusual sight’ as many passing walkers have said. It's Sunday and there are many boats out and about.
We continue our journey east to Woolhampton Lock and swing bridge. Here you are advised to open the bridge before leaving the lock. The river once again joining the canal and at this time of year it takes your boat along with it. Both our boats bumped the bridge on the way past. Fast reverse to stop and pick up crew after they shut the bridge. Arrived at Aldermaston and turned below Padworth Lock. Then back up to moor at Reading Marine Wharf. Quite a lot of people walking by and looking in at us.
Easter Monday gives us a long weekend on our boats. We find time to chat with Bob and Jane on Hobo who keep their boat there. Terry & Myra join us on Nomad as they leave their boat at the yard for some work to be done on it. With all four back on board it was like before. Two crew and two skippers? We agreed to take turns between locks! Lunch stop half way, then back to Ham Manor Basin and home.
REDUNDANCY !
Many changes to cope with. I have been made redundant. Freedom to spend our own time. Feeling guilty because I don't have to work for someone else after a lifetime. We talk a lot with our good friends who help me come to terms with the new situation. We cannot now afford to keep Nomad and decided to sell her. A difficult decision to make but our situation has changed. Just like our friends last year. However we are looking positively forward. We are considering the possibility of getting another boat to live on and let our property. That way the income from letting and my small private pension should be enough to live on. It is surprising how much of my previous income went to pay for tax, national insurance and pension. Now I just pay a little tax.
ANOTHER BOAT ?
By mid April we were back with cat & dog on Nomad in the marina. Terry & Myra were there and offered to take us to Aynho Wharf to look at boats being built there. If we are to have a boat built it is not too far from home. The cost of a boat was very reasonable and they would build to our specification which we had been working on for some time. So there is a possible way forward.
It was a quick short visit and we were all back on our boats and moving by mid afternoon going west. Stop at Guyers lock for tea and on to Benham for the night. Managed to turn both boats here. Butty Lark is longer and turned above the lock. It was a nasty wet night and we got the fire going. Sunday was brighter and we all went for a long walk round Hampstead Park in the sunshine. Our friends provided a welcome lunch after that. Then we returned to the marina and went home.
GET AWAY
Navigation note:- Newbury to Bradford on Avon, 118 LM.
I was still suffering the trauma of redundancy and needed a long holiday. Did not need to book time off work! What better than to spend some time on Nomad. It was nearly May when we got back on board with the animals. Terry & Myra had already left the marina and arranged to meet us at Kintbury. John & Sue on Evening Shadows had also arrived that evening. They were very supportive and considerate when I told them I no longer had to work. We decided to travel together at least to Kintbury. Got diesel at Newbury Boat Yard. 80 litres @ 18p a litre, always good value this pink diesel. John & Sue kept their boat next to ours all the time we were at Ham Manor and had never once been out at the same time, so this was a unique occasion! So it was not long before we met up with Terry & Myra again. John & Sue continued their journey to Hungerford.
In the morning we made porridge on the fire and our friends joined us for breakfast as Myra likes porrage. Both left in sunshine bound for Hungerford. After lunch there we moved on slowly due to the lack of water above the lock. Very tricky getting off the boats at Hungerford Marsh Lock as we could not get close to the bank. Just had to jump for it. Swing open the bridge above the lock and go in. Cobblers Lock was just as difficult to get off at. By the evening we had got up to Froxfield where a good edge provided a mooring. Next day we went through Burnt Mill Lock with it’s new gates. We were stopped here last year because this lock had broken. There is much more water here all the way up to Crofton.
UP TO THE TOP
We had breakfast on Butty Lark because Myra had made fresh bread! Then up the flight to the summit pound and through Bruce Tunnel. There is much more water up here now as the canal has just been dredged. BW have been busy at the locks here for they now all have landings where you can get off safely. Good new moorings at Wooton Rivers at the start of a 15 mile stretch all the way to Devizes with no locks. Eventually got to Pewsey which is about half way. We all went off to the shops the next day which took about 15 minutes down hill. Did not think about getting the bus back up until it passed us! The Kennet & Avon Trust Shop provided a refreshing cup of tea before we set off again after getting water.
On past the Barge Inn. No we did not stop for refreshments. After a quick visit to Devizes Marina which had grown since we last past by we stopped at the Wharf. I think that some restrictions were still in force regarding the Cean Hill flight. Last time we had to book our passage. So next day we arrive at the top Lock 50 at 9 o'clock like last time. Then we realise that the controlled section now starts at Lock 44 which closed at 11. We got there later and the lock keeper would not let us through so we lost a good days travelling. So next day we setoff down with Butty Lark at 9 into Lock 44. All the way down on a wet day to the bottom at Lower Foxhangers by lunch time. The sun had come out so we continued to Semington.
TURN ROUND DAY
We were slow getting up after that energetic day and set off late just to make some progress. Only got to Hilperton. Next day we arrived at Bradford on Avon and turned at the top of the lock. Sadly we had run out of time. Terry the navigator did not think it wise to continue to Bath. We had to get back next Sunday for Mum's 80th. Birthday. After lunch we left to return home stopping at Semington again.
Next day we go up the Seend flight of locks. Half way up there just happened to be a Pub called Barge Inn and it was time for lunch. We moored outside with Butty Lark along side and enjoyed a drink and good grub in the pub. Then on to Foxhangers and a difficult mooring with our friends alongside again. The plank employed to get off. Other boats arriving and pairing up for the ascent tomorrow.
UP CAEN HILL
Off at 9. This time in the dry. Time to admire the view above Lock 44 where we could stop for lunch. Then on up to Devizes wharf to go shopping. We moved on for another hour and stopped in the evening somewhere. In the morning we were up again to continue our travels. Passed Lady Bridge. An elaborately decorated bridge designed by Rennie in 1808. Lady Susanna Wroughton had objected to the canal going through her land so the canal was made wider and landscaped. It has now become a wildlife haven. By the end of that day we had reached Pewsey.
Continued our rush home by eating sandwiches on the move. The rain did not help and made the trip seem longer than it was. Lit the fire to keep warm. Finally stopped at Little Bedwyn and all had dinner on Nomad. When we got to Hungerford the next day we went shopping. Then on to Kintbury. By Saturday we were back in Newbury. Despite the rushing about we enjoyed the trip. Remember that this was a holiday for us and so so different from working all day inside. What am I saying? I am retired now. Just not got used to this way of life yet.
BIRTHDAY
After celebrating mum’s birthday my brother and his son came for a short trip. They had come over from France and were looking forward to seeing the boat. We went east down to Colthrop Lock where we could turn. On our way back we found a queue of boats and a fallen tree across the canal. A BW man had been called but could not get there before about 6 pm! A boater was already cutting branches off and managed to get by. We followed him through and got back safely to our mooring. Our guests left us that evening and we had a quiet time next day before returning home.
FOR SALE
At the end of May we came up for the weekend. I had by now found occupation looking after an elderly couple’s garden. The dear old boat was up for sale. We spent a sad time removing all our personal items, returning some to Terry & Myra on their boat and packing the rest in the car. It was sunny and hot at first but then we had a violent thunderstorm. Just like in the films when bad times are portrayed. Cleared out the fire and swept the chimney before blacking the fire. We had borrowed a Vac cleaner to clean the carpet. Went over it three times it was so very dirty. Never been so clean before.
When the Broker came to measure up she was quite impressed. It does not add value to the boat but helps to get a sale. We were told that the boat is worth more than we had paid for it. Such was the demand for second hand boats these days. Then we arranged for a full engine service which the Broker requested.
THE FINAL TRIP
My younger brother came over from California for a trip on the boat. We went to Midgham and met mum & dad there. They had travelled up by car. We set up a picnic with chairs on the deck and the towpath and enjoyed the time together. As it turned out this was our last time out on Nomad of Erehwon. She was sold in August.
A NEW WAY OF LIFE
We had used Nomad while we were working, kept her in a marina and could only use her at weekends and holidays. In the main we explored the Kennet & Avon from the middle going east and west. Two weeks got us to Bath and back once with not much time to hang around. Our future promises to be quite different on a boat designed by us to be lived in. With time to discover new canals. There is so much more to see. After selling Nomad we felt we had lost a way of life which we had enjoyed very much.
We are now looking forward to getting our new boat built and have put a small deposit down to secure a build slot at Aynho Wharf Boat Builders. From our time on the boat since being retired we both realise that there is much more to life and are looking firmly to the future. So we have decided to call our new boat 'Moore To Life'.
PLANNING OUR FUTURE
Things we take for granted in life are about to change. Car, contact, post, medication, finance, etc.
We wont need the car. A major change in life style. From now on we will rely on our legs. We can hire one to get 'home' occasionally. Chris & Tracy need a better car so will have ours.
To keep in touch with family and friends we will get a mobile phone.
Our postal address will be Chris' house. He is happy to send on our post. The Post Office operate Poste Restante and will keep post until collected at most Post Offices.
The Medical Centre has agreed to keep us on their books using our original address. Repeat prescriptions can be requested by post and returned using a stamped addressed envelope. If we need to see a Doctor or Nurse we can sign on as a Temporary Patient at any medical centre.
Our property will be rented to enable our life style to be viable. Will use an agent to find Tenants and handle the finance. We had been advised to keep in the property market.
Power and space is limited on a boat so a smaller computer will be required.
OUR NEW BOAT SPEC
I set about designing our new boat in earnest over the next few months. We had already got a quote from the builders based on what we needed and what they could supply. So we worked on the detail. Moore To Life is to be a Semi Traditional Narrowboat and 57 feet long to enable cruising of the entire canal network. The open cockpit at the stern provides easy access to the living space through central lockable steel doors. The Taff rails provide some security against falling off the back.
THE ENGINE, a 2 litre Barrus Shire diesel, is below the floor boards and drives a 16 inch prop via a 2 to 1 gear box. A 240 litre diesel tank provides the main source of power for engine and heating. An Eberspacher boiler heats four radiators in the living space and provides domestic hot water. One starter battery and four domestic batteries store 12V power for the boats electrical systems. When running, the engine supplies the hot water and charges both sets of batteries.
THE UTILITY section houses the electrical systems, washing machine, coat hooks, cupboards and shelves. It is intended to be like a hall where you take coats off and change shoes. A radiator helps to dry wet coats hung above it. A power line can be plugged into shore to provide mains power while in a marina. This keeps the batteries charged through an Inverter / Charger. The Inverter supplies limited mains power from the batteries. The 'black' tank is mounted across the boat. Boats with tanks under the bed on one side have been seen to lean over when it gets full! Two port holes provide light and the floor is laid with vinyl. A door leads to the cabin. This proved great for keeping the warmth of the fire from escaping out the back door.
THE CABIN has a 4 foot wide double bed and a wardrobe. Some of the space under the bed is used by the calorifier which stores the domestic hot water. The other space is accessible from lift off panels and is used to store clothes and blankets. A cupboard above the bed head provides more storage and reading lights. A convenient switch on the wardrobe is used to turn on the boiler when waking on a cold morning. A radiator by the bed providing the heat. Two more port holes give light and privacy. The floor is laid with carpet tiles. A roof vent provides fresh air.
THE BATHROOM is next on the starboard side. This has a port hole, a vanity unit with flush mounted basin, four foot bath with shower head and an electric flush loo. A radiator keeps the towels warm n dry. The floor is laid with vinyl. Above the basin is a wall light and mirror. And of course the roof vent provides fresh air and ventilation. A sliding door takes up less space than one opening into the room.
A side door to port by the galley can be opened for fresh air. A raised oven and grill is situated above a cupboard in the centre. To port is a double cupboard for storage with work top and a waste bin is built in to one end. To starboard is a flush mounted stainless sink with cooker hob next.. The fridge is between the drawers and cupboard under the drainer. A 4 foot wide window has split sliding glass and hopper opening. A pull down blind is the safer option here. Mains sockets supply power for kettle and other appliances The floor is laid with vinyl.
THE SALOON has four 3 foot windows which provide plenty of light. A set of cupboards and drawers provide space for cutlery and computer. The coal fire is between the two port windows. This will be used to keep us warm and dry sometimes using ‘free’ wood. drawer and shelves. A radio / CD player is built into a cabinet at the port front bulkhead and the TV sits on top. The video is inside the cupboard. A similar cabinet is on the starboard side. They both house speakers for stereo sound. Two easy chairs and a table are in the open plan saloon. Blue fitted carpet is on the floor here. A radiator in the opposite corner gives back ground heat from the diesel boiler.
Access to the front cockpit is via half glazed double doors. A 140 gallon stainless steel water tank is below the cockpit floor and either side are covered storage seats. Below the front is the bow thruster tube but the motor is not fitted. The cratch is a triangle frame which supports a cover to keep the rain out. The frame has windows to see forward. Two propane gas bottles are stored safely in the front locker. So that is what we wanted from the boat builder.
OUR
SHELL ARRIVED
The steel shell arrived in December, three days before Christmas. Then the Boat yard closed for the holidays. It was a long timeto wait before we could see it in January 2000. It was great to see the steel boat already floating in the canal. A hollow tube with window holes already cut in the right places. Painted grey inside and out. Covered over in plastic sheeting to keep the rain out.
PROBLEMS
We resolved to travel up to the yard at least once a week. A two hour trip from home. A carpenter started working on the boat. Then some portholes were put in. By the end of February work had stopped and the proprietor had left the business. Aynho Wharf Boat Builders was no more. Aynho Dock Services to the rescue. Ours was not the only boat to be finished. We got to know the owners of a boat to be called Willow Dreamer. They ended up fitting out their boat themselves. Our boat fit out was nearly finished when the agent found a Tenant.
AYNHO
DOCK SERVICE
Ian Cooper runs Aynho Dock Services along with John, Adam, Simon, Will and Stuart. They have all been very helpful with fitting out the boat after our builder went bankrupt. We've had things welded on, holes cut and advice given. They all enjoy the work that they do. The boat Lone Ranger had all it's paint removed down to steel and then re painted. The lads came out after the first day as black as the ace of spades ! We watched the progress as paint was applied during the next ten days. We saw the sign writer and showed him our drawings and explained what we wanted in our name panel. Our boat is to go in for painting next and the washing machine is due to arrive soon.
MOVE HOME
We moved out at the end of August 2000 and onto Moore To Life our still unfinished narrow boat currently moored at Aynho Wharf on the Oxford Canal. Our car had been filled to the gunnels many times to transport our equipment, clothes and tools to the boat. The bungalow was left with some furniture, clean and tidy and looking quite empty compared to the last few months. Some of our 'stuf' was put up in the attic and locked away. Our first tenant to move in the next month.
When we arrived at Aynho the surveyor was looking over the boat for our safety certificate. So even before we could unload the car we spent some time providing him with lots of information for the Recreational Craft Directive documentation. We did not get a safety certificate because of some non compliance items. We needed two low level ventilators at the front and the battery terminals needed covers. The work was done during the month and we now await the delivery of our safety certificate and boat manual. When it arrives we can get a licence from British Waterways.
Then we proceeded to unload the car. Where was it all going! The inside quickly looked cluttered. By now it was time for dinner. Both pets were on board for the first time and also needed feeding. So priorities were decided by necessity! Get the galley sorted then the cabin.
UNPACKING
BOXES
Refreshed after our first night, we set about putting things away. Many cupboards needed more shelves and baskets to keep thingsaccessible. Our main objective was to varnish all the interior wood work with another two coats, each with a rub down in between. The first coat had been applied throughout as well as inside cupboards during previous weekends. So we could at least put things inside cupboards, unpack boxes and throw them away. It took most of the morning to rub down and clean up before applying varnish after lunch. We planned to stay aboard for about three weeks until the boat went in for painting.
FUEL SHORTAGE
Still got the car and went to Deddington for provisions as it was too far to walk and there is nothing closer. There is a Post Office and a Co-op so the village is good for most things like money, bread and milk etc. There was a protest over the price of fuel which managed to stop the supplies. Within a week there were shortages of most things. A fellow boater offered to get us bread and milk one day but could only get milk!
DIY FITTING
Now finished the varnishing all the way through. Having moved things forward to do the back it all got put back again. We had an offcut of carpet which just fitted and our neighbouring boat owners gave us their spare under felt and the edging strip and we fitted it ourselves. We had a spare book which they accepted. A bit of give and take seems to help each other. Our curtain fittings proved unsuitable so we are waiting for a new set made of brass, then we can put the curtains up. The boat has six portholes and we have round padded bungs that act like curtains. Our friend had crocheted circles as decoration for them.
ANIMALS
ON BOARD
Allie, our dog, still insists on going out for a walk at two. So we went up or down the canal on the tow path noting the different boats moored each day and some times chatting to the owners. How we envied their freedom being able to move on. Our cat Tara is getting into and behind things. She disappeared behind the fridge till we turned on the tap. The noise of the pump got her out. Ann takes her out with a lead and harness to explore the outside world. Another walk was down the road to the fishing pond. A local farmer keeps it stocked up so fishermen can hook them out with barbless hooks and throw them back without harming them.
NEED TO FINISH SOON
Now that the stoppage list has been published by British Waterways we see that Banbury is to be closed to navigation at the end of October. A new bridge and shopping centre is being built there. We must get away from Aynho by the end of October if we are to get past Banbury and explore the Oxford and Grand Union canals around Napton and Braunston this winter. Luckily the boat can be painted soon. We have to move out and spend two weeks with mum and dad. Saw family and friends, watched a film called Billy Elliott and took Allie to see the Vet. The boat safety certificate arrived and we applied for the British Waterways licence.
TRANSFORMATION
We moved back in to Moore To Life in the second week of October. The boat had gone in to the painting bay like a chrysalis and came out looking like a butterfly! A nice bright blue with a yellow line and grey roof. Our car was filled to the gunnels twice more to transport the rest of our stuff. The sign writer was still busy and we moved in when he had finished. It was cold and wet that evening and the boat needed warming up so we lit the fire, fed the animals and ourselves. Then went to bed. The next day the washing machine arrived and was installed. After a bit of trouble getting the door open we did some washing. When the washing machine went in the boat tended to list to one side. So I found some heavy lumps of Pig Iron and put them in the opposite corner of the boat out of site below the water line to get level.
LAST MINUTE JOBS
Another major job to do was getting the curtain rails up. Then go get some brass rings while we still had the car. Off to Banbury and B & Q, Tesco's and Harveys. Found what we needed to finish the job. Must say the curtains do look good and makes the boat even more like home. Then we went to the local coal yard and picked up a bag of Taybright to keep us warm at night. We planned to leave the yard in October. So we had just over a week to get the cratch finished. The cratch is the wooden triangle at the front which will support a cover over the cockpit. Ian was still painting it with a diamond pattern and Bill was to fit windows later. During the last week at the yard we disconnected from the shore mains power. Relying on batteries and running the engine for an hour in the morning and afternoon to provide hot water and keep the batteries charged up. The horn and tunnel light was fitted.
NAMING
CEREMONY
Spent some time tidying up and putting things in cupboards out of site ready for the arrival of family. When they arrived we performed the naming ceremony. Tracy did the honours with a bottle of bubly, “I name this Ship Moore To Life, may god preserve her and all who sail in her.”. Dad was amused that we referred to the boat as a ship! Then we went to the pub before taking a trip south to Semington lock and back. Finally the moment of commitment. The family left us to our new way of life as Tracy drove our car away.
BIKE TO SHOPS
Ann went off to Deddington on the bike to get provisions from the Co-op 3 1/2 miles away. Left at 10 and got back by 11:30. Mean while I walked to the coal yard to get two more bags of coal delivered to the boat. After using the washing machine and having a bath we filled the water tank again. The final thing to do before leaving was to get the loo tank pumped out and the diesel tank filled. By now the engine had done 32 hours. Been on the boat long enough now to count three full months. We finally left Aynho Wharf on the 24th. October 2000 after paying the final bill to Ian Cooper. We are grateful for all his help in making our dream come true.
DISCOVERY
MODE
Navigation note:- Aynho to Braunston, South Oxford Canal, 58 LM.
Now moving at last. Stopped just outside Banbury for a night and went shopping at Morisons after doing our first 12 lock miles. Got past the lift bridge with help from passers by because it is out of balance and needed several people to keep it up! The old bridge is being replaced in November which is why we had to get past it. A few days later we arrived at Cropredy. (pronounced Crop reedy) having done another 9 lock miles. The Bridge Store has good food, fresh bread, Banbury cake, milk etc. Even fire lighters, coal, wood, mooring pins, hammers and boat magazines. British Waterways have their facilities here. Water, loo and refuse. The winding hole enables us to turn the boat here if we needed to.
It'll be some time before we go south of here because of the winter stoppages. We continued all the way up to Fenny Compton which is where we met Terry and Myra. After getting coal and water we moored up behind Butty Lark. Then walked to the village to find a medical centre and a Co-op shop but there was no Post Office. Back on our friends boat for a game of Mah-jongg after dinner. The FAB 4 back together now with two new boats.
The next day we both went on up the cut to Napton. The Oxford canal is narrow. That is the locks are only wide enough for one boat at a time. So we help each other get through them. Moorings are usually good with many hard edges to tie to. There was a large pile of wood in the field by the canal next to the pub. Next evening the locals gathered and set light to the bonfire and set off fireworks on November the fifth. The pub is now called The Folly Inn but in earlier times was the Bull and Butcher when the author of Narrow Boat, Tom Rolt, paid it a visit. We all had a good lunch at the Crown Hotel in the village under the hill. Having spent five days together we parted company to return to Cropredy to meet family.
FAMILY VISIT
When we got back to Cropredy we called in to the Bridge Store to collect our photographs. The owner of the shop had offered to take the film to Banbury for processing. He told us about the local surgery so we booked Ann in for a flu jab. We collected so many letters from the P. O. that they got to know us and our letters were quickly fished out of the box of mail for collection. The office is in the front room of a private house. We stayed near Cropredy for eleven days while members of family made their visits. It was good to see them all again.
WINTER STORMS
We are learning how to keep the fire in over night. The trick is to clear out the ash morning and evening. Our stock of wood is going fast and although free does make more mess on the roof! So we now keep a stock of at least 4 bags of coal in the back and are comfortably warm most of the time. Still alive and kicking after no less than two storms when we were on our own. Luckily we were moored up early before the wind and rain got going. The wind is the worst thing, and rain is tolerable. We were being blown on to the bank so the pegs were not under too much strain. Kept looking out during the night with a torch through the windows still with our clothes on as we did not sleep much that night. The normally flat calm canal looked like a raging sea. It has been better since with cheery warm sunshine and no wind but have had a few frosty mornings.
What do we do all day! There are several options available. We can move the boat, go shopping (walk to a local shop in a village), take the dog or cat for a walk, collect post or dump the rubbish. Then there are other chores like sweep the floor, keep the fire going, get the coal in, washing and cooking. We've been finishing off inside. The more time we spend in the boat the more improvements we think of. Sorting what we need and want. Then there is the engine maintenance, check diesel, water, coal, grease stern gland, check oil and water in the engine. Make sure the alternator belt is properly adjusted to ensure the batteries get well charged. Then we can sit down in the evening and enjoy a bit of telly if we can get a good signal. Listen to CD's or read a book, even write a letter or make a phone call.
STOPPAGE!
After the family visits we intended to go back up north to Napton but then we saw the BW Notice. Two locks were to be shut for three days! A farm house next to one lock had a flooded cellar. In order to carry out repairs the canal between the two locks had to be drained. We walked up to see the strange site of an empty pound. The canal is surprisingly deep in the middle with a flat bottom and sloping sides. Fresh water clams were making groves in the mud. A BW man assured us that the pound will be filled on the third day. We spent the extra time writing Christmas cards.
We moved up and through the locks and observed that the water was as green as grass. A dye had been used to ensure the leak had been sealed. Further up we saw some swans and the flash of a Kingfisher. We stopped for the night at Claydon locks. It had got cold and windy. The next day we got to Fenny Compton again. By now the diesel tank was half full so we got 128 litres. It's a month since we left Aynho so we reckoned it was about time to pump out the loo tank. Also got six bags of coal. Claydon to Fenny took all morning and by the time we had got filled up and emptied it was dusk at 4 O'Clock.
The next day we walked to the Medical Centre in Fenny Compton and got my pills. Filled in the 'Temporary Patient' form and waited for a Doctor to approve the issue of drugs despite the fact that I had a signed prescription. This is the first time we have visited another medical centre since leaving home. Then got more food from the Co-op. It was a cool dry day and we proceeded up to Marston Doles in the afternoon. It took three hours to travel along the meandering canal. The well known section that seems to take for ever. Saw a heron just standing there on the edge of the canal.
FRIENDLY HELP
Our friends Terry and Myra had walked up the Napton flight of seven locks and helped us down them. We played Mah-jongg and had a pie at the Folly pie pub. Another day we got the bikes out and all four of us cycled 2 1/2 miles to Southam to shop. The first town we've been to for some time. The cycle ride to Southam in December was a new experience for us. Cars and lorries rushing past. Quite scary on the road. We pedalled in low gear all the way as it was easier to keep going even on the flat. Clearly we're not fit! Once recovered the next day we moved both boats to Culcutt where Terry filled Butty Lark's water tank. We had plenty at this time but usually fill up when about half full. Takes about half an hour to fill half a tank which lasts us about a week. Think on that next time you water the garden for half an hour.
There is a flight of three locks here at Calcutt on the Grand Union canal and each one takes two boats. So we go down together for the first time. It is windy and proves tricky to aim the bow into the lock. Then on past Ventnor Farm where T & M keep their boat and on to a turning point before the next set of locks which were under repair. Moored up and walked to Stockton Post Office and back before playing a game of Mah-Jongg again. Next day we went to a Country store not far from the canal. We got some good waterproof leggings, body warmer and gloves. All good quality and value. Then on to Ventnor Farm and stopped outside. Terry had already gone in to the marina to get permission to let us walk in as we needed another gas bottle. When at Stockton we chose a Cantonese meal which was delivered later that evening. We all consumed it on our boat outside that 'exclusive' marina.
BRAUNSTON
Our friends went home the next day and we made our way to Braunston which is the centre of the universe as far as canals are concerned. Took three hours with only the locks at Culcutt to deal with on our own and filled our water tank this time when at the top. Passed a narrow boat called Hobo which belongs to Bob & Jane. They had their boat built at Aldermaston and have just moved up here. It is now five years old and they are having a major refit by Mark & Margaret. who live on Knot Normal which they fitted out while at Newbury. We asked Mark to do some improvements for us later. When we had found a mooring in Braunston, Dave and Georgina on Willow Dreamer went by, returning from Rugby up on the North Oxford canal. So it seems we have made some more friends on the cut.
During our five day stay we got Moore To Life measured up for canopies to be fitted front and back. Should keep the wind and rain out and make it a bit warmer inside. Also collected post from the local Post Office in the village past the church up on the hill. Ann needed some more inhalers and after asking around discovered that Daventry is the best place to go for a Surgery and a bus goes there every hour. Ended up going with Dave & Georgina who had been before. The town has plenty of good shops.
NORTH OXFORD
Having come up from Aynho on the South Oxford we wanted to explore the North Oxford. So off we went. Got the maps and some information from the locals. Headed for Hillmorton, a suburb of Rugby. Only seven miles but it took three hours in the rain and had Cup a Soup on the way to keep warm. All flat with no locks, mainly strait with some sharp bends and several bridges. We stopped at one of them called Moores Bridge! Next to the Rugby clock transmitter which radiates the digital time code used to keep every body on time.
Down two locks to visit Hillmorton Lock Services. They can carry out a service on our engine which will be needed some time after Christmas. The locks here are unusual in that they come in pairs. So a boat can come up at the same time as one going down. Saves time and water. Willow Dreamer had been following us a day later and caught up at the last lock. We then followed and stopped at Clifton. Another suburb of Rugby. Found a sheltered spot because the forecast was for wind and rain again. Overnight Clifton Brook below us had swollen and flooded the golf course.
SHOPS AT RUGBY
A long walk with Dave and Georgina got us into the shopping centre of Rugby. Got the bus back having filled our bags with heavy goods. The canal goes round the edge of Rugby and a railway follows between it and the town. But still some sections of the canal are spoilt by rubbish presumably dropped from bridges. Next stop Tesco’s. Lots of boats moored both sides of the canal. Had to use our plank to get off the boat. There were a number of out of town large shops including Do It All, a short walk from the canal. Then on to Newbold on Avon where we found a Post Office / Store, Butcher and a pub. It is getting dark early at 4:30 and we stop for the night.
MODIFIED CANAL
Next day we passed through a short tunnel and discovered that our light had failed. Luckily you could see the other end of the tunnel which was clear. Back in 1829 this section of canal was shortened. Previously it followed the contour of the land, and now raised strait sections are raised on embankments which make them rather exposed to the wind. Side arms and iron bridges reveal the existence of the old route of the canal. The Side arms have water and some contain boats tucked away off the main canal. On past All Oak Wood which is a coppice. Dark and peaceful with the tall trees reminding us of the New Forest. On our return we stopped the night there.
We had read about the Duck weed growing rampantly in this part of the canal. Our friends told us that their dog jumped overboard thinking it was grass! We found patches of it just past Brinklow. It got thicker as we progressed. One patch was so long it took an hour to get through. The boat slowing to a crawl. We stopped at Ansty village for the night and were advised not to go on to Hawkesbury Junction but to turn at the Wyken Arm. This is not far short of the end of the Oxford Canal where it joins the Coventry Canal.
We got back through the tunnel and filled the water tank by 12 the next day. The Barley Mow was cooking lunch. Right there by the canal. Very inviting. So we had to go in. A friendly pub all decorated for Christmas with a large family enjoying their lunch with party hats and crackers. Worth another visit just north of Rugby. After posting more Christmas cards at Newbold we moved round to a sheltered spot as the forecast was for another stormy night.
COAL BOAT
Next blue sky day was calm and we moved on to shop at ‘Tesco’ a short walk from the canal. Then saw John Chard on ‘Stokie’ just round the corner. It is a working boat selling coal and diesel. So as we happened to be down to our last bag of coal we got some more. John now travels up and down the north Oxford. We had first met him on the Kennet and Avon canal when we had Nomad. During our trip we had seen a few herons, wood peckers, king fishers and fed swans through the window. Their heads popping inside the boat through the open window.
Eventually got back to Braunston where we got our new covers fitted. Good at
the front as it does provide a dry ‘tent’ and helps keep the front
end warm inside but the cover on the back forces you to crawl out! Collected
loads of post, put up the fairy lights, tree, hung the cards up and collected
our boned turkey from the local butcher. One day we took the bus into Daventry
again. Dave & Georgina came round with their game of Monopoly which we played
one evening.
Thank you for reading Chapter 5. Now you can read Chapter 6 or return to Book.