Wasn’t expecting that!

Last evening we had a nice long chat with Joy and David nb Jessop who were moored up behind us. Their home mooring is at Brinklow so they were on the way back with a visit to the Ashby on route.

We left this morning around 9 with a brisk breeze accompanying us. Although it wasn't cold. As is normal for our journeys we met a doughnut who in his infinite wisdom approached the bridge we were leaving at full throttle and made no attempt to slow down.   Paul  had already throttled back before the bridge because bridge 54 is on an acute bend and he was determined to  keep his course. The oncoming boat still made no attempt to slow up  which meant that  by this time he was up close to the armco and  was in the wrong position for the bridge hole. By now we were out of the way and there was one almighty crash.  Paul didn't look back but knew that a collision had occurred with the bridge. This was obviously more than just a bump so lets hope there isn't too much damage to his boat or the bridge. Lets hope he has learnt his lesson and will in future approach bridges at  a reasonable speed.

We needed to stop at Bridge 48 to empty the cassette, get rid of the rubbish and top up with water. We could see there were two boats there so we pulled on to the towpath side to wait. It wasn't long before one of the boats  left and we were able to moor up. Paul went to the Elsan point opened the lid and low and behold someone had put a full dog poo bag into the pan. Now I ask you why do that. I was the one that had to remove the offending article a job I could have done without.

Tackled two of the Atherstone locks and now we are moored up between bridge 47 and lock 9. It is blowing a gale and looks like rain. Nb Kyle is in front of us saw him at Tixall and Alvecote.

Tomorrow we will do the remaining 9 locks and head for bridge 24. At the moment the itinerary is being followed to the letter. That’s a surprise.