narrowboat_Abigail_Jenna

2012

2011-12-31T22:25:00.003Z

but some great sadness

Happy New Year to you all.

I have had a really lucky year and spent time with all my loved ones. These two are the best tonic that anyone could ever want. Sadly I never see enough of them and apart from actually moving in it is never to be :-)

Bit of luck for Karyn :-)

Donna Nook

2011-11-28T12:26:00.001Z

Took two of Lees grandchildren down to see the seals at Donna Nook. The first thing that is seen is a scattering of seals along the foreshore. Not sure what will the seen when the tides in. Maybe they all move further up towards the dunes.

There are big ones ..........

and little ones.......

They come in little groups and the mothers do get a bit touchy if another seal (large or small) goes near her pup. I wouldn't like to think of the results if you tried. and touch one.

There is a small stream running along the edge of the sand dunes and a number of the seals seem to take great joy in bathing in it.

Looking up the stream towards the north.

Now and again the young are right next to the fence.

They do get stroppy when they get near to each other.

This mother was happy feeding her young just yards away.

But when another mother got near to her cub she got right nasty.

They both enjoyed it really :-)

The view along the fence.

The next series of photos can speak for themselves

Spotted this large female that had left a pool of water behind her.

Mother and cub seemed to be doing fine.

After that it was difficult to find anything of interest so its back up the dunes to the carpark where there is a couple of snack vans including ......................

Boston and Bardney

2011-11-24T20:23:00.001Z

The mooring at Boston was well covered in weed.

The weed soon vanished on the way back up stream

On the towpath there are a load of rail signals. One I noticed is used as a signpost. Not sure what the others are for.

Lee was walking up to the next pick-up point and found a load of blackberries to go with the apples we scrumped on the towpath earlier.

The Boston Stump stands proud. It is the highest thing for many miles and can be seen almost from Lincoln :-)

Up at Antons Gowt the BW workboat is still at it. Not sure what it is. Few bits of weed appearing as they cross the river.

Mooring here and a pub within staggering distance.

The wind is blowing the weed from one side to another at this point.

BW workboat and barge. Lots of bits from the moorings at Boston on board.

After meeting up with Lee and making a cup of tea head off to the next mooring at Langrick Bridge.

After a quiet chug the mooring comes into sight.

The view from the bows.

Pop across to the boatyard for some derv. I sat waiting on the mooring for a cruiser to leave. I had forgotten it was Saturday and by the time I got there it was shut. The new owners are extremely obliging and open up especially for me.

Another lovely day and plod on up river.

Some weed appears again.

and then it gets a bit more serious.

Any relative of Llamados do you think?

More and more weed. It seems to be congregating in larger lumps.

Occasionally small gaps so that I can give the prop a reverse to clear some of the rubbish.

Coming up to the mooring at Tattershall I spot these two geese on the bank.

Can't find it in the book. Any ideas?

Tonight's mooring.

Still plenty of weed. Where does it all come from?

Miles of the damn stuff.

and more

Getting closer to Bardney and there is more weed.

An empty bit of water at Southery.

At last the drain in front with the old railway bridge on the left.

The old route of the Witham and the lock on the left.

Come on Lee get them gates open. I haven't had a cup of tea for an hour :-)

and at last the mooring for the winter. The butty that can be seen carries coal so we are ok for fuel for the winter.

Boston and random items

2011-11-24T16:45:00.001Z

Met up with one of my favourite girls and had a lovely few hours being shown around a childrens play area in Scunthorpe. Brilliant.

While off for a walk in Bardney - out getting the i newspaper- had a look down the side of this house and spotted the tree.

The tree itself was dead but the owner had taken a chisel to it and the result was astounding. Full of birds and a magnificent owl at the top. Wish I had the camera but will take another pic and show the close-up.

Was lucky enough to have Abz company for a couple of days. Up on the Water Rail Way Abz took advantage of the Pike being climbable. Sadly the side of the Pikes mouth has come away. Not, I hope, by vandalism.

On a trip up Steep Hill in Lincoln we spotted this mini outside the Castle. Complete with pink eye-lashes. Must say I did have doubts about the male driver.

Lee walked up the towpath from Boston and took these next few pics. This seat done as a pair of hands is rather good I think and the sheep with chains for wool are brilliant but the cows still beat them :-)

Rather a lovely oak leaf seat.

Must get her a decent camera to carry about with her. Taken on her old phone this is - I was assured - a field of long haired animals that have a long neck. Not giraffes. I would have noticed them. Llamas maybe. :-)

Not sure if they bury walkers where they drop but this is a grave stone of sorts but Lee can't remember who its for. Any ideas?

Had a slight problem with the gearbox. Ian had borrowed the boat and headed towards Southery mooring for a bit of a fish. He got so far and the propeller decided not to go round. The engine was working ok but that was it. Moored in the weeds and camped in the pub. Can't praise the pub highly enough. They looked after the marooned group and kept them well supplied with food and beer. After a day stuck there a Tupperware class boat came along and offered to tow them to a mooring. What nice people. However having roped up he went hell for leather and the boat was all over the place. He wouldn't go slowly and in the end just cast off the rope in mid channel. Plonker.

I arrived back and some very nice people even though he is ex-submariner :-) onboard nb Karenza came down in the dark and towed us back to Bardney.

Stripped the gearbox and checked that all was working as far as I could. Had a word with Thorne Boat Services for some tips and they were as usual very helpful. All I checked was fine so take the box off the engine.

Off it came and the driveshaft behind it..........

was exposed. The end of the gearbox shaft is splined.

Where the hell have the splines in the hole gone?

Taking the box to bits as the 'emergency get you home cog' had got engaged when I dismantled the box off the engine. The cog is just visible on the right hand side of the top cog. It moves into slots in the clutch. The splines on the shaft can be seen on the left side of the gearbox.

The new drive plate. You may notice the difference in the shape of the hole in the centre.

The plate is bolted on to the engine flywheel

and the end result looks like this

Hooray. All back together and running. I am sure that the engine is running quieter than it was before. Trip to Lincoln to test it out.

Thanks Leigh for the chats.

Back at Bardney Lock and there is a boat being used to get rid of some of the weed. Over the last couple of weeks the boat has shifted 30000 tons of weed and dumped it on the side to die off. The worry is that all the weed that is left will sink to the bottom of the river and carry on where it left off next summer. It makes very little difference to the weed. The area is cleared and by the next morning the surface is covered yet again.

Everywhere you look there is weed.

Langrick Bridge and there is plenty moving up and down in the wind.

Lovely walk into Tattersall and a visit to the castle.

Lovely views.

A view from the bows of the mooring. A delight.

Meanwhile in Boston. The BW workboat is removing the old moorings. They keep coming down from the lock at Antons Gowt and pulling a few out.

The windmill was working while we were here. I wonder if the locals thought the same about windmills when they were first erected as the locals of windfarms do today.

Not saying that its forward planning but it must be a little unusual to have a Retirement Home next to a funeral parlour.

There is a rather nice museum in Boston Guildhall. The kitchen has a running commentary where the cook seems to spend a lot of time having a go at the peasants.

It still has the cells and they are all ready for use. :-)

Lots to look at and listen to.

The Banqueting Hall has three examples of meals from the past.

The haven was rather waterless today but then it is tidal. Could do with a bit of a dredge.

Lots of fine buildings about.

and the church is one of the finest there is.

Some council offices and a library.

Lots of streets that havent changed for many years.

Cobbled streets all around the church.

You walk down several on the way to and from the mooring.

BW workboat off with another few moorings in the barge.

Lincoln to Woodhall Spa

2011-11-10T15:51:00.000Z

Its been that long since I did the last blog and put these pics onto the site I am struggling to remember what happened. Still here goes.

We left Lincoln and headed down stream for Washingborough. As you can see the weather was superb. The actual mooring isdead ahead and only 4km from Lincoln so its hardly long enough to warm up the engine.

Just before arriving at Washingborough the church at Greetwell can be seen on ther opposite bank. To my mind this must have looked just like thousands of others churchs before the massive rebuilding that took place throughout the country in the 19th century.

The evening view from the bows. I turned the boat on mooring so facing upstream. The cathederal stands out on top of the scarp. Its hard to believe that it is surrounded by houses.

Heading down stream again and another lovely day. The trouble with the canal and river as far as Bardney is the lack of bends and interesting views. Keep an eye out for the sculptures.

Well there are a couple here. My favourites. The artist has really captured the look of a cow and its made out of scrap metal some of which you can identify if you get close.

Out of Bardney lock and it all seems quite clear of weed but there are horror stories going about concerning the amount of weed further down stream.

The Lockkeepers house has been sold but is going to be let for holidays if you want a quiet time by a canal.

Very windy. The wind coming through the bridge almost csught me out. The boat veered off to the left and and the bridge support got rather close.

Every so often bits of weed turn up. In the distance is the mooring at Southerey and its from this point the weed gets thicker.

and thicker it gets.

Another piece of sculpture to ponder on.

Woodhall Spa mooring and the thats it for today.

The weed is coming down stream with the wind. When the wind changes direction the weed piles upin different places.

Off for a wander about Kirkstead and walk into Woodhall Spa to the shop. Station waiting for the late arrival of a train.

Nice sign on the entrance to the town. Sadly the Gypsy caravan that was in a front garden the last time I was here has gone.

Walked up to the remains of the Priory nd in the field can be seen the old fish ponds.

Not much left now of the Priory.

The church is still closed which is a pity. I would love to have a look inside.

There are extensive earthworks in the fields around the remains. Timeteam would have a field day here.

The little lane leading up to the Priory is a delight and if I had any gin

I would pick a load of sloes that are along the hedge to make a winter warmer :-)

and its back to the canal with the pub on the left for those that have worked up a thirst on the walk.

Keadby to Lincoln

2011-10-11T18:50:00.000+01:00

and we are off. The tide is at 9.30am and there is another boat coming with us. Lots of weed coming with us :-)

The Trent is very calm and the other boat is soon in front but stays in sight as he is an anti-Trent as a place to enjoy.

Not long and its halfway with the water coming over the gates at West Stockwith.

On into Gainsborough. The shopping trolley on the mud to the left has now disappeared along with the traffic cone.

Heading for the centre span of the town bridge. Just outside Gainsborough and

oops where did that come from? :-)

Fusedale H coming downstream fully laiden with gravel or some such.

After four and a half hours full steam ahead we arrive at the Torksey Viaduct. At this point I get on the radio to let the Lockie know where I am. Problem with Torksey is that I say this is Abigail Jenna and I get the answer Oh Hello Ifor I suppose you want to come in (Only joking Neil :-)))

The mooring for the night. The lock has an enormous amount of heritage attached to it and there is now a cafe as well. The 'caff' is brilliant with a superb book exchange and not only that but they make a really good cup of tea.

In the morning that dark view turned to this. A wonderful view of the canal system with its gentle way of life just around the corner.

Just around the corner of course is the visitor moorings after a long line of moored boats.

Plenty of straight bits and 'Good grief' a boat comes into view. Plastics (you will notice that I didnt use the word Tupperware in deference to the lovely people on Naughty Cal. :-) ) seem to have a total inability to steer a straight line.

Going a bit slow here with the moored boats. I wish they were the same price as the mooring on the River Idle. I must have another look at that to see if the price can be brought down somewhat.

Ahh. Saxilby. One of my most favourite places ever. There have been lots of lovely memories here. People visiting and days just spent in the sun smiling at others. Lee loves the Weeping Willows so its a one up already but a bit busy for her.

Not far from Saxilby and the first view of Lincoln Cathedral comes to you. My favourite cathedral and city with lots there and plenty to see. There is a need or should that be was a need for a decent map for boaters. There is a Tesco and a Morrison within walking distance of various moorings.

and on to the Glory Hole. Where have you been well they are nosy around here arent they :-) The most excitement you are likely to get between here and Boston unless you are me. :-)

The actual Hole is medieval and the evidence is there for all to see if you use a boat.

Moored up in the middle of Lincoln for a shopping spree at Wilkos. Damn cats is eating me out of boat and home. Gipsie is moored just in front of us.

For a couple of days we moor up at Stamp End. Visit the Arboretum and its another place that is not advertised and is well worth several visits even if it is only for the bacon sandwich.

Ready to go on the Trent - Maybe but no?

2011-10-07T14:31:00.001+01:00

Eventually we managed to get through the bridges. The wind only had to drop for an hour or so and we arrived at Keadby. Had a quick chat to the Lockie and it seems that a number of boats are going out on Tuesday so we will just have to loaf about for a day and a half. The stress :-) apart from that its a lovely sunny day.

Well we were going to go out onto the Trent. A boat came up stream at the high tide and had a slight problem. One of the engine holding-down bolts had sheared earlier then another and another then just as she entered the lock the last one went. Lot of noise - exhaust detached so lots of smoke inside the engine room. A large Oopppps you must agree.

The boat came alongside as we went off for a walk. Had a word with helmsman and said we could tow him back to Thorne or go on our walk. He chose the Thorne option. :-) So I spins the boat around and go alongside to tie up.

There isnt a great deal of room getting through the swing-bridge holes but plenty with a little care. Moving from side to side take a little thought with the extra drag of the towed boat but it is very helpful in some situations if you use the drag to swing the boat where it is needed.

Miss Liz Middleton - at least this is who Thorne Boat Services thought had left the boat and I assure you that its a Les - gets on the phone to warn friends that he is on his way to Thorne.

The engine hole was in bit of a state as you can see by the graffiti that is soon left behind by 'friends' :-) in photo below.

I managed to slot the pair of us into the facilities moorings and as it was late on Les wrote a note out for the boatyard explaining what was happening.

Friends of Les turn up to give a lift home and examine the mess in the engine room.

As I am about to go back to Keadby I move the boat across to the side and re-moor it.

The wind is back :-( Not as bad as it was but it is now overcast and gloomy. At least the rain is falling on someone else.

On the way I spot the old Methodist chapel that is slowly falling to bits. Sad.

Plenty of sideways movement in the wind.

At Crowle I even get a blast from a passing train. Its a pity that some of its load couldn't go by water.

At last its the last two bridges. One we open and the other the railway. A bit windy so stop have a cuppa and then the wind drops so we shoot through.

and its back to Keadby like we never been gone or cue for a song. :-)

Out onto the Trent tomorrow

2012

2011-10-07T12:52:00.001+01:00

Happy New Year to you all.

Bit of luck for Karyn :-)

Thorne down to Keadby less the bit for wind

2011-09-13T17:15:00.000+01:00

During the last few days at Thorne BW work boat went past. Spotted it later bit further down towards Keadby and it arrived today at Vasons Bridge.

Before we undertook the arduous journey down to Keadby, (well it was hard to get ones backside into gear so to speak) I topped up with a gas bottle, some derv a length of rope and a new battery. The new batteries work a treat and even without the engine running have managed an hour or so telly in the evening. Just a bit of wind so as there is more coming it might be best to get the trip over and done with.

While doing the business a snake was spotted in the water. Having not put a pic of one on the blog I thought this an opportunity not to be missed. You can just see its tail while it is hiding in the tyre/fender at the mooring.

A quick poke with a pointed stick (not really I just moved the tyre slightly) and it decided to move on. Its between three and four foot long.

My first canal serpent :-)

Two of us are heading off to Keadby and the wind is increasing.

Can't remember what this one is called but its an exBW workboat thats being converted on the canal side at Bluewater Marina.

The conversion is giving it a nice shaped bow.

Mumble mumble discontent DRM. I hate going sideways down the canal due to the wind. The other boat turned around at the first bridge. It is a bit on the flat side round here with nothing to slow the wind down. Can't say I entirely blame him. Several goes needed to get off the moorings as I go down towards Keadby.

Fed up at one spot so stopped to make a cup of tea and get some apples for a tart.

Every bridge seems to have a bit of open ground off to one side and the mooring is always on the leeward side to boot.

There are still a number of cygnets (13) on the run up to Keadby.

Thank goodness for the view.

Vasons Bridge and I am stuck. The wind is so strong that I can't get the bows to stay out long enough to start the boat moving. Ah well at least its a quiet place to moor up.

It doesn't seem to be so bad really.

Still can't get it to behave and after 3/4 hour work manage to get the boat to the other side with the hope of jumping at the bridge hole when its open but in the end can't be bothered.

Following morning its even worse.

Waves getting higher.

Some of these are well over 2ft high and the crest of some are on the gunnel.

Couple of boats have come up from Keadby. Its quite calm there but the moment you come through the bridge hole the wind takes over.

Still bad and tonight its started raining. If it rains hard enough it should flat out the waves and I won't get seasick. :-)

Sheffield (missed it) and back to Thorne

2011-09-11T14:51:00.000+01:00

Due to the amount of water going over the top of the gates the powers that be or BW in this instance have locked them up with a non-standard lock so to progress one needs to ring up and book a lockie. The one that arrives I felt I knew but was fairly sure that it wasnt up here. Later I found him in a Waterways mag when a feature had been done on him and his length. Very helpful he was too. Even offered to have a word with the private moorings further down so I could stay the night.

This is the furthest that we went and turned around (just enough room) in the basin after the next lock. The weir can be seen from the gates.

Then its back to the lock where the lockie is waiting to let me out for the trip back to Rotherham. Taking care to miss the small bit that juts out on the bend. I missed the bit that was above water but bumped the bit below while avoiding an oncoming boat. Oops.

Soon as we are back the lock is set up for us and off we go.

We are right on the edge of Rotherham and apart from the factories and buildings appearing through the trees we could be out in the coutryside miles from anywhere.

Lee walked on towards the town centre and it is just around this corner.

Rotherham is just as scruffy from this angle too. Its a pity as there is a lot that could be down to improve the canal at this point.

A minute later and its industrial time again. Many of them are derelict and there is an almost brand new building here where the canal walls are dropping into the cut. Must be a bit worrying for inhabitants.

Turned the corner and it the Humber Princess unloading. At the stern a crew member is painting. Ok. But PINK. They must go astern from here back to the basin and past all the moored boats. I cock-up and a few boats could be flattened.

and its out the other side and back to the lock for a night or two. There is an old canal off to the left and its name is the Duke of someone or others canal. I think. It can be seen from the road bridge.

As we left the next day it was difficult to miss the fact that a wedding was on the cards. The Lockkeepers cottage is privately owned and on the lawn in front the ceremony will take place. Hope the weather stays well for them. Visitors came from as far away as Crawley :-)

The major question on everyone that comes up here is "Where is the bacon sandwich factory?" The smell of cooking bacon is overwhelming now and again.

Stopped at the lock for a few moments to pluck up the courage to try and operate the gates. They worked at the second try this time. A quick trip out of the lock to Asda to stock up.

The view up the side of the Aldwarke lock towards the weir.

A short distance away and there are gantries all ready to put stuff back on the canals and rivers.

One or two place along the canal and there are new apartments, houses and flats for sale. The area looks much improved to the way it looked a few years ago.

and its back to Swinton and Waddingtons.

There is one reason the old boats are vanishing. They are being cut up for scrap. Not a lot left of this one.

I wonder if they will ever get this reopened and a route made to Barnsley. It would be nice to have another ring to travel on.

Another quick stop to shop at Mexbrough.

and another place with space for moorings. Mind you I wouldnt want to stop here at the moment. There is rather too much ammo left lying around for the Oiks to throw at you.

and yet a few yards further on and it is tranquil and very pleasant.

Time to start looking for a mooring for tonight with the hotel near if a "facility" is required.

The mooring from the bows. Top up with water at the lock in the morning.

Its not far now down to Sprotborough.

However the scumbags are out. I spotted the kids running about on the viaduct and luckily I knew that the surface up there was concrete with no stones that could be hurled down. They still managed to try spitting on us. WHY

Someone somewhere has been doing some work to keep the heat in. Wish he had keep it to himself. Bits of it floating all the way down. At least the duck has somewhere to stand.

At last the church comes into view.

and Wyre Lady is out ferrying people about. We passed them up near the viaduct.

Stayed the night and moved on to Doncaster. The lock is quite near so Lee walked up to get it ready for me.

Big isn't it. :-)

I saw these the last time I was up. Have they started breeding does anyone know.

Delightful weather and it nice to be out. The run to Doncaster is just a slow chug. We have visitors coming on-board today.

Through the lock and as we go under the bridge I am sure that the train from Sunny Scunny goes overhead.

Happily the mooring is all but empty. One would have thought that everyone would be out in this weather.

Lees grandchildren and daughter come on board for a trip down the canal to Stainforth. Zack has figured out how to use the throttle already. This can be a bit awkward when getting off the boat to tie up :-)

The stopping of all the traffic whilst the boat goes under the bridge at Barnby Dunn went down really well with the youngsters. The oldsters just grumped about missing the dog mess :-)

Decided to stay the night just across the canal from the New Inn. Nice pub and decent food.

Gosh! another boat.

This is in the book as a mooring place. I am not so sure. Its the old loading area for the pit but is now used for motorbikes and burning rubbish.

Anyone into brewing beer. I spotted some hops growing wild along the canal bank.

Its back to Thorne for a few days to sort out the flat. Decided to head off out onto the canal for longer runs next year. Might even get a winter mooring again.

Took Abz down to the flat and had a long walk onto the sands near the Fitties. Sadly there was a marsh in the way but after a was Abz shoes were almost back to pristine condition. There was a biplane going up and down the shore line.

Bit of a close up and he has a wing-walker on board.

No visit is complete without icecream and a photo on the 0 degree line and reference to GMT etc. Abz already knew having come here with the school.

We all loved the narrow gauge railway

Walking back to the camper and there is a station in the middle of the line. Here there is a cafe, bar and museum. The trains look superb.

with cranes for doing that heavy lifting that sometimes needs doing.

But Abz was not very impressed by some of the visitors who seem to be incapable of reading the sign that is on each item of gear. Do Not Sit On Exhibit. Adult would lift their little darlings into the drivers seat for a photo.

and they are not all perfect. There is still this one which is a piece of work in progress.

Outside the train is in the station waiting. Not sure what for but it did. Just like the real thing :-)

Meanwhile back at Thorne I spotted this lady walking past. Why is she wearing a dress made out of my curtains in the flat. :-)

The weekend saw the Regatta at the marina. Not very well advertised I thought. No mention on Waterscape website. A line of vintage or should that be veteran cars. The weather for the first day was fine but on Sunday it rained or drizzled then sun came out before raining again.

A display of diving gear from the Historical Diving Society and I well remember doing handstands against a wall to let drain out certain substances after a long time inside a diving suit.

The balls on water was a great hit with youngsters. I think they should have been on the canal though :-)

Then there was this fellow advertising a wildlife sanctuary. Gorgeous or what.

The pirates were out and about. Later there was a display and someone had a heart attack. Not sure if it was as a direct result but the bangs were loud enough.

One or two nice old cars

Spotted this one for Andy. Only £1500 too

Sprotbrough and onwards

2011-08-23T22:30:00.001+01:00

I must admit to Sprotbrough being one of the nicest mooring in the area. It all very well mooring in Asda carpark but for peace and quiet it takes a lot of beating.

The view from the bridge back towards the lock. Its not far up to the shops and milk and papers. Workboats looking sad for being stuck here :-)

Decided that the walk today would be around the Sprotbrough Flash. You don't actually enter it but can peer in now and again. For the first part of the walk we were trailed by youngsters out for a wander.

There are well set up hides on the outskirts of the lakes.

and the view from inside shows the edge of the walk on the otherside in the distance.

Several species of bird including the cormorant doing its Liverbird impersonation.

There are several paths going off from the main one along the canal side along with the 'You are here' map which is handy.

You must admit though that it is a lovely walk with the woods on one side

in a green tunnel that goes on for ages.

While on the other is the canal or at this point the River Don.

There is a wharf along the river where rock would be loaded into boats. It doesnt look as though it is used very often these days. Make a nice mooring though. :-)

The viaduct dominates the view when the woods are cleared.

The only boat we have seen today is from Swinton Lock Activity Centre.

Up close the viaduct is massive.

The thing with the Victorians was the need to build well and then to embellish. It had to be good as well as look the part.

Having walked this far we had to go up and see what was there. The view upstream towards Mexbrough in the background.

Downstream you can't even see Sprotbrough which isn't all that far away.

Spotted a des-res of a couple of caves with en suite firewood.

The top corner of the wheat field on the way back. The flash can be see on the other side of it.

In the distance a disused quarry. Listed as dolomite my rock hammer is itching to take a look.

There are several old gate posts left standing in the hedges. Very impressive

Looking back over the walk. Up through woods on the left and back along the field on the right. Well worth stopping to walk round the flash.

and its back to 'civilisation'

Civilisation in this case means building a memorial to the site of the village pump :-)

At the end of the walk is the Boat Inn. It was here that part of Ivanhoe was written.

No sooner are we back on board but the boat starts moving about and a quarter of an hour later the Humber Princess turns up. Even going slow it shifts an awful lot of water about.

From what ever angle the Conisbrough viaduct isalways impressive.

At Mexbrough Low Lock there is evidence that someone is trying to eradicate the Japanese Knotweed. I wish they hadnt slung it in the canal as it meant an hour spent fishing it out.

The view from the bows of tonights mooring.

Heading off in the morning and trying to keep up with Lee who has gone on ahead to open up the next lock. I manage as she keeps stopping to pick blackberries for her breakfast :-)

There is a mention of the nb Will Scarlet being up Rotherham way in the guide. You can correct that as its ashore in a boat yard at Mexbrough. (Or it was. By the time we returned it had disappeared from view)

Stopped for a short while in Mexbrough by the railway station. Dash into Tesco for bits and a paper.

Its not very far to Swinton and Waddington lock. Decided to check out the loo here.

The last time I was here I feel that there were a lot more barges about.

The facilities are very good for children and the site huge BUT small loo and thats it. Disappointing really.

Huge areas inside these barges. I wonder what it would cost to do one up?

Through the lock and looking back is the disused canal that heads for Barnsley on the Dearne and the Dove. I can see why there are less barges too. They are being broken up on the right.

Another mooring that isn't. The old lock disused and full of weed.

All the way along here it goes from derelict industry to peak district type views.

Every so often there is a few weeping willows lined up looking all the world like waterfalls.

Spent the night here on the lock moorings. The water indicator is a bit dodgy and refused to let us open the gates.

Still there are plenty of blackberries and Asda right next door.

I wouldn't have minded but the following morning a boat appeared from up stream. I went up to help and to let them know the problem with the gates. We managed to open the gates and before I could move the boat the stupid woman off said boat closed the gates and sailed off. Needless to say the damn gates wouldn't open for another twenty minutes. I did cast doubt on her parents.

Immediatley after the lock is a listed bridge. Rebuilt in 1834 I wonder how the Princess manages to get through and leave it standing.

Moored up at the Eastwood lock. Across the canal is a Waddington wharf and a couple of barges being converted by the looks of things.

Quite a good mooring with water and electrical plug ins. Pity there is no water in the tap and electric in the points. Not far to the right is a large trading centre with Morrisons etc.

In towards Rotherham and more places to moor maybe and fishermen every where.

I think this is the place that Humber Princess unloads. The place seems to be used and is clear of rubbish.

The barge that is used as a restaurant looks to have a bit of a list.

Once we are past it is obvious why there is a problem.

Rotherham Town Lock. Full of rubbish. I did wonder if it was still in use for a couple of minutes. Right outside the court house and full of potential. It must be full cos none of it has ever been used.

Place is a tip. Rubbish everywhere. Sorry Rotherham but you arent worth stopping at.

We decided that as there are so many police about attending court it would be safe enough to go and have a quick look around town and large Tesco nearby.

Heading out towards Sheffield. Its countryside within minutes.

After Ickles Lock (well it isnt very big) a private mooring with several old barges being used and very nice they look too.

Holmes lock will be far enough for today. Looking at the lock we find that the gates are locked and not with the usual BW key. Sort it out in the morning

The view from the bows. Heard that the reason its locked is due to the amount of water coming over the gates. Needs to be booked at the same time as Tinsley flight.

Thorne to Sprotbrough

2011-08-17T16:27:00.000+01:00

After the trip up the Chesterfield Canal the run up towards Sheffield has a disappointing feel to it and we haven't even started out yet. But we are away and as the Thorne lock comes into view I wonder if the TS Gambia is ever used. All the times I have stayed in Thorne and I don't think I have ever seen them out on the water.

At the lock I spotted a Martin flying around and as we worked the lock and bridge the young could be seen sitting under the bridge waiting for Mum and Dad to do the business.

This old barge has just come out of the dry dock after a refit due to some morons setting it on fire. The boat is own by a charity so a large amount of money has been wasted thanks to their local pratts.

As we near the M18 bridge the Gambia overtakes us. Is this one of the fleet? They keep stopping as they go along and I wondered if they are putting up notices but can't see any.

Just outside Barnby Dunn I saw something swimming the canal and managed to get a pic as it ran down the towpath.

Another view and I must say that it looks a bit minkified to me. Where's the shotgun when you need it? :-)

Took things rather easy at Long Sandall. A widebeam had broken down in the lock so waited outside until the crew had managed to tow it out and secure it.

Doncaster and the view from the bows. There are a large number of boats here today so only managed to get the stern to the mooring. The bows ended up tied to ropes fastened to the fence. The chutes are still waiting for someone to come along and use them.

Looking the other way and its much nicer if you like that sort of thing. :-)

Stocked up with wine, cider and bread to keep us going till Mexborough and into the lock. The graffiti that was here has been painted out. I must say that I did prefer it as it was.

Once through the lock and there is a large pile of winter heating for someone to pick up.

The prison looks quite nice but I wish that they would make a mooring here.

Sprotborough Lock and the stop for a day or two.

They don't seem to get any smaller as time goes by.

Mv Wyre Lady is still plying her trade and up for hire if you are looking for something different to do.

Under the bridge and the pub and mooring hove into sight. Off for a walk at Sprotbrough Flash tomorrow.

Keady O.I.K.s and Thorne

2011-08-12T17:13:00.000+01:00

Its seems that complaints are yet again being levelled at certain people for the non-delivery of the blog. What with a trip to Wales with Abz and several moves the signal for the mobile is a bit hit and miss.

I was due to go out onto the Trent on the Sunday but due to the batteries inability to deliver what it says on the side of it I ended up staying for another day. An ex-chief RN came alongside and as the weather cleared up after a day of downpours I was glad I stayed in the end.

Out onto the Trent and lots of water doing down stream. Should be a bit quicker than usual. Lovely area the Chesterfield Canal and well worth the weed and Worksop :-)

Its not long and I get overtaken by a plastic boat . With luck I thought he will be in and out of the lock by the time I get there.

Fairly grey all the way but at least it doesnt rain. Sorry Trent but after the canal you have some catching up to do in the scenery department.

I am always glad to see the lift-bridge that doesnt at Gunness Wharf. It means that there is only a short while left to go.

Just as we get to Keadby Lock another plastic comes haring along and I get waved away as the last one to pass is still there. I spend the next 20 minutes mouching up and down waiting for them to clear.

Into the lock and tie. Where did all that weed come from? Its very large duckweed so not much of a problem for us. However if you use the canal water for cooling then you will soon get to know your filters rather well.

and it gets no better once the top gates are open.

Met up with Bill from Thorne who now has a mooring here right next to Spider T. Spider soon leaves and goes off up to Scotland for a trip calling at 10 ports on the way up and the same number on its return..

Abz arrived to lend a hand to move the boat up to Thorne and due to the heat people were soon collapsing all over the place. Luckily they had a book with them to keep them amused till the drinks arrived to revive them.

Only in Keadby :-) or Oiks for short. These two little scum-bags have just cast adrift the cruiser astern of me.

At the same time they decided that there was plenty of room in the canal for some rubbish they carried across the pub carpark especially.

Two car seats, a pile of cardboard and some lumps of wood. What do these tossers think they are doing. A bloody good kicking seems to be required by many these days after looking at the latest news in the papers.

The day before we left nb All Things Spanish moored ahead. Plenty of stainless steel used here but he does work with it. The contraption on the bows if for a motorbike but that was stolen in Bingley we were told. If its not nailed down some scumbag will steal it.

Abz does the job with the bridges but one or two of them are very heavy going indeed. Not sure how a single lady boater would get on with out a bit of weight behind her :-) Still lots of weed. So much so that I couldnt get the boat alongside as the weed crunched up between me and the mooring.

In places its really very thick and hardly moves as you plough your way through it

At last the giant mushroom comes into view and the weed thins a little.

The last lift bridge is just around the bend and we can have a rest.

Abz is faintly pleased with the idea of a rest and lets me know.

There has been bother in the mooring its seems. So we decide to stay out tonight and check things out tomorrow. In the end it wasnt quite as bad as it sounded. Three boats were involved and the crews became drunk and the damage was caused to the facility. The names of the boats have been passed on to the BW and I hope they have to pay for the repairs that had to be done.

The ships cat just couldnt stand the pressure of it all and went to bed early for a change.

Eventually things are back to normal and Abz has everyone running around playing a version of rugby. (I can't play as I have a bone in my leg) Honest :-)

Retford and down to West Stockwith

2011-07-20T12:15:00.000+01:00

After a few days outside Asda carpark its time to head back to West Stockwith and the Trent. Its only a few yards to the first lock and all the tight locks are behind us and wide locks are to come.

There are still a few bridges about that are a bit on the low side and I think its this one that the wind genny tail had a meeting with earlier. The other side of the bridge is a mooring that looks ok and only a short walk to the centre of Retford.

Its not long and its back out in the countryside. As usual as soon as a lock is reach someone turns up to chat. This time its a boat owner who kept their boat up at Shireoaks.

The canal closes in again and there is only a few feet either side of the boat. Now and again the very tight bends take a bit of getting around.

Stopped for the night at Clarborough and went out for a walk. There are some lovely places to wander about all along the canal.

The view from the bows tonight. The pub is The Gate and plenty of room to moor up and with so few boats about there is always lots of space available.

As a change from wheat and oilseed rape there is a field of broad beans and they are nearly ready to be picked :-)

Every so often - ok every mile :-) - on the towpath side can be seen the new mileposts that have been put in and occasionally on the off side the original ones can be seen.

The canal isn't very wide anyway and the floating islands of weed taking up half the canal doesn't make life easy but does make it interesting :-)

Forever winding and going from fields along side then wooded areas turn up.

The twisting course allows one to see ones destination a short distance away across the fields but there is still a long way to go before arriving there.

At Clayworth moorings nb Jophina II is spotted. She didn't look all that happy at being left and is waiting for Chris to keep her company :-)

Another boat not far away has a heraldic theme and very effective it is too.

The swans that live around here have really come on in the few weeks since we last went past.

Moored up close to the facilities so that there is plenty of room left if anyone else wants to stop here.

There are a couple of nice walks here as well. This is part of an old trackway we found while out and about.

I should have got a copy of the Richlow book as it would have saved me some time looking for the Post Office marked on the map. This is another shop that has closed.

Back into the woods

and through tunnels of trees

with the clear water one can try to count the thousands of fish that are here. Fry without number right up to 18 inch monsters by the dozen.

Under the Old Man Bridge.

Spent the night at Drakeholes. There has been an event somewhere involving dozens of old bikes. One of them pulled up next to us. Marvellous sounds as they go past. Called in the pub which is close by. More of an hotel really but a decent pint anyway.

Sun is out again and we wait while a boat enters the tunnel

then its our turn. Many Martins flying in and out to feed all the young inside.

With the boat going in front of us all the locks are empty so its a bit slower going having to fill the lock first.

There are several disused brickworks with the chimneys still standing. Alone in the middle of a field and looking odd in an agricultural landscape.

Stopped below a lock for lunch in the sunshine. Kept an eye out for other boats and when one turned up I opened the lock ready for him to enter.

Passing rather a nice house with land running down to the canal and good use made of the canal by putting a narrowboat on it. As we went past we are thanked for our speed (low ) and discover that the owner is from Swansea. Another immigrant flying the flag :-)

Ooops. The canal becomes a dyke at one point with gaps measured in inches rather than feet. Plenty of weed about and happily not a lot getting around the prop although others report otherwise.

Nearly time to stop and dash into Misterton and visit the Co-op and butchers.

The last lap down to the Stockwith basin has a long straight. Very unusual for this canal.

The view from the bows tonight with the lock dead ahead.

Moored with stern to the bank. A couple of 'Tupperware' come in and do not impress the lockey or us.

The next day we took a walk down to the River Idle to see what the possible moorings for hire are like.

This is the problem. The EA govern the use of the guillotine gates and access to the river. However. When the Retford boat club wanted to get in in 2009 in cost nearly £500. This will be a major stumbling block to getting the mooring working as a going concern.

Its well worth the effort of a short walk down the road to the footpath along side the river.

The path comes out in a field but it continues on through the hedge.

Some Ragwort on the edge of the field and I found the caterpillars of the Cinnabar moth on it.

and the field goes on......

Another disused brickworks but this time turned into a home. A superb site and very well renovated.

Then its back along the river bank towards Stockwith and the basin.

Flat out here with the highest points being the flood defences.

Shireoaks at last and return to Retford

2011-07-07T16:38:00.000+01:00

So we escaped from Worksop and right next to the Town Lock is a pub and as the weather is good the patrons keep their eye on the boaters and may or may not :-) give advice as to where you are going wrong. We got through unscathed :-)

Moments after the lock is the Priory shopping centre. A decent mooring here but width is restrictive so you are unable to just moor up anywhere.

Arrival at Morse Lock and it looks a bit different to the usual due to the metal bridge with what looks to my jaundiced eye like a couple of Phoenix type birds stuck on.

and then I was stuck before I had even got through the gates.

so I pushed and pulled and managed to get the small fenders up that seemed to be causing the problem and

eventually got in. I was soon to be got at by Rojer with a J who complained that blog was badly in need of updating. Rojer travels up and down the Chesterfield canal recording all that he sees of interest and also searches the internet for mention of same. Sandra complained that I was being lax in the blog area and put this down to tiredness on my part. The main problem has been lack of internet access according to Lee. :-) and who am I to argue but signal has been poor in places.

I keep my eye open for winding holes just in case. This one has a bridge over nothing that leads nowhere.

Good mooring and the Lock Keeper pub to frequent while here. There is also a Sainsbury a short walk away and near the pub. All you need from a mooring. The boat sat there at the mo is nb Dreamcatcher from Shireoaks and is flying the Red Dragon.

Had to pull in and get the two flags together. :-) The owners were kind enough to offer us the use of their mooring in the marina but as it turned out it was rather windy and easier to just spin the boat and moor on the usual mooring.

We have come across a lot of youngsters this trip. Always happy to help and open or close a lock gate.

Managed just the once to see the masons marks in a lock. This one had just the one and it was on most of the stones.

A little further and very near to Shireoaks now and we have some more help from some very polite children. One young lad was very taken with Dash and I think he would have stowed-away given half a chance. We did meet them later on in the trip while moored up back at the Priory Mall :-)

They had a look inside and are all going to pester their parents to buy them a boat each :-)

The entry into the marina is very tight and takes a bit of getting round. Its all very quiet so take all the time you like as you wont be holding anyone up.

Masses of room inside that could be used for moorings at some stage.

Next morning we took a walk upto the end of all the locks that have been reinstated over recent years.

First boat we have seen since Dreamcatcher the other day. They had been up to the end. We had decided not to as we needed to be back in Retford and 31 locks in a couple of miles might slow us down rather a lot.

It was one lovely peaceful view after another. In the sunshine we were soon ready for a sit down

when we arrived at a seat put in place in memory of a lady who had lived many years at the canal cottages nearby.

The locks are in some cases in groups of two or three and a couple are staircase with the top gate of one lock being the bottom gate of the next.

Crystal clear water due to the lack of boat movements and the thousands of fish from fry 5mm long up to the huge things crossed with Moby Dick can be easily seen as we walk.

Not far now from our turning point. Plenty of people us the towpath and up here there is the absolute minimum of rubbish to be found.

Stopped here for a while and had a read. Got some grass stains. My first for years but only cos the grass was damp! Honest :-)

and we return to Shireoaks and move on back towards Worksop.

On the way back spotted this bungalow and the owner is proud of his canal and along with the sign telling of the opening of the canal in 1777 there is a small signpost to the Giants Staircase.

Back at the marina. There is a project underway to build, using traditional methods, a Chesterfield Heritage Narrowboat. They have a long way to go yet by the looks of things.

And we are off.

Wow!!! Another boat coming up Happily they were not in a hurry as I got stuck again :-) Another quick flush to get out.

Moored for the night out in the middle of nowhere. Dash soon ashore and after the wildlife. Mice, Moles, Rabbits, and Shrews. All become presents that need to be spotted before leaping out of bed onto them first thing in the morning.

The Lock Keeper and stuck again in the next lock. This time it took over half an hour to get free.

Moored up outside a large warehouse that sells furniture. Looking to redo the inside of the boat to make it more homely and comfortable. Took the opportunity to wander over to Sainsbury to top up with the goodies of life.

Spent the night outside the Priory. Quite peaceful and no problems. Down through Worksop and the inspectors are still outside the pub.

We stopped here the night on the way up. Three pubs very handily situated for the thirsty boaters and there didnt seem to be any problems associated with them.

Every so often the weeping willow hides the view. Lee is collecting branches of it and muttering about saunas :-)

Almost back to the facilities at the Forest Locks. Some people really make the most of the access to the canal. Boaters most likely take advantage of the fact the the apples, pears and plums over-hang the canal and would drop onto the boat as one passes.

Lee went off cycling earlier and ended up with a puncture. The resident boaters took pity on her and gave her the choice of Guinness or tea and while it took her just a short while to get her I was taking so long she parked the bike and walked back. Still low water level and lots of weed.

Spent the night moored between the two BW boats and in the morning crossed over to water ship :-)

The Dragonflies are coming out at last. There have been plenty of Damselflies and spotted this one laying eggs.

Occasionally one sees evidence of the past as in the grooves cut in the wall from the ropes that were attached to the horse towing the boats along.

Must look this one up in the book :-)

and finally we make it back to Retford. Almost feels like home now.

and on to Shireoaks

2011-07-05T20:41:00.001+01:00

First I must apologise to all those who have missed the blog. Its not as though Sandra and Rojer want to know why it hasn't been put on line but just in case you are wondering the internet connection on the upper parts of the Chesterfield is not very good. Honest :-)

Moored up nicely at Retford with Asda only a few paces away and well stocked with bread, cheese and wine - that's us not Asda you understand. Decided that it was time to take a look upstream as there had been many comments on how bad the weeds were.

It wasn't long before we found out. This was the second stop to clear the prop and as you can see it was quite idyllic even if the reason to stop was mundane.

The weed was worse in-between the four Forest Locks and outside not too bad. However the depth of the canal did leave something to be desired at numerous points. The facilities at the third lock includes a shower which we took advantage of.

Meanwhile Dash was being Satyrical :-) and enjoyed the sun.

On the way back to Retford we kept leap-frogging another boat as we took it in turns to stop and get the weed-hatch open and cleared.

To try and help others and ourselves at a possible later date we took to hooking out as much weed as we could. However as the locks filled the weed arrived faster than we could get it out of the canal.

Now and again we are lucky enough to meet someone at the right point so that they can let us through and close up for us. We naturally do the same for others when we can.

Off for a second run towards Shireoaks but going all the way this time. There are a few mini-aqueducts to go over at Retford but don't blink or you will miss them as you go through the narrows.

At the first lock we met up with the most popular men on the canal at the moment. They are driving the weed-cutter and although they could spent treble the time cutting every little helps as they say.

The canal narrows down to very tight proportions and on the occasional bend the small keel I have keeps the boat heading in the direction I am trying my hardest to get out from. Once or twice I end up in the weeds.

Back at the Forest Lock facilities and the several small boats moored here dont go very far as evidenced by the length of the weed growing from the hulls.

Up through the lock and in front of us - just to rub it in - is a weed cutter that isnt used any more. I am sure volunteers would be forcoming to train up to use it if the chance was given to canal enthusiasts.

A bit further on and damn me there is another one. Three weed cutters on the canal and its so full of weeds you can hardly move without getting your prop tangled.

Its a boat house but not what I would look for in size at a canalside residence :-)

There is also a bit of dredging going on as the BW put down new pilings along the bank.

The viaduct gives a view of the trains but is what one would call impressive.

Awww. For the donkey lovers amongst the readers of the blog.

Meanwhile the Moorhens and Coots are working on a second clutch of eggs. Some of the young are now as big as their parents.

Getting close to Worksop and an old - what I think might be - pumping station. Any offers as to its real use?

Lovely old bridges but very plain after the serpentine cross-over bridges of last year.

And at last the twin towers and spire of the Priory in Worksop.

There are some fine examples of the local industrial heritage. Not much of a chance to investigate though so you will have to be satisfied with a glimpse through the gates.

Random Pics

Found this in Worksop as we walked up to the supermarket. Hippies rule :-)

and this piece of 'graffiti' I found stencilled onto a lock gate arm. Any ideas?

Now and again we would come across a splash of brilliant colour. This doesnt do the spot justice.

A number of new mile-stones are to be found along the way and each seems to be dedicated to a local family. Lovely idea.

and finally one of the delightful mooring places. This one is a short walk from Sainsburys near the Lock-Keepers pub. Just the place to get stuck in the lock :-)

Thorne to Retford and a new beginning

2011-06-18T23:37:00.001+01:00

I like the mooring at Thorne. I have met some very interesting people there and some of those were on Sobriety. A number of children on board. It was a delight to watch them ashore playing rounders, cricket etc. A very polite bunch they were too. When Sobriety turned around there wasnt a deal of room left.

A few days ago I was visited by this mad woman :-) Honestly she, that is Lee, must be mad as she has decided to come and travel the canals with me. It has been a long time since I have laughed and enjoyed myself so much. Long may it continue.

Just outside Thorne and on the way to Keadby and a field with lots of poppies in it. Not a very common site these days.

Lee soon gets the hang of the different types of swing/lift bridges. It makes such a trip so much more with a companion and I don't just mean the ease with which I now get in locks and under bridges.

For a start there is the large number of young of various species to point out.

This felt like the fastest trip to Keadby I have ever made. With Sunny Scunny in the background our destination shows up as the chimneys of Keadby power station.

Didnt have time to take pics at the lock. We had booked to go out at 1700 and when we arrived at the lock at 1430 we were told we were going straight out with three others. Two are going to Torksey. The other is going into West Stockwith and as this was his first trip on the Trent was going to follow me. Brave man :-)

West Stockwith and inside the lock. I hadnt realised just how fast the tide was moving us. After the turn to get into the lock it was flat out to make the entrance. The only way I could get around was to put the nose on the wall at the left then bring the stern slowly around.

The people operating the lock have it all sorted out and it works a treat. Sue the lockie warned us about the lack of water and the excess of weed. What is even worse the pub is closed on a Monday.

Stopped at Misterton to get some sun-screen. Lee went off to the shop and they had sold out. A very nice gentleman went out of his way to pass a bottle of his own over.

The lock leaks a bit and the duck and young dont seem at all phased by it.

It is a bit shallow. However it is a lovely canal and well worth a visit. All the sluices are locked up and you need a key to get through along with a windlass.

At Clayworth we stopped to pop into the village to pick up a few necessities such as wine and stayed here for lunch. A chatty lot of locals go past us.

As you can see the canal is well weeded up. In places there is only a few feet spare on either side.

There are a few rather low bridges. The wind genny is now on the stern and the bike rests on the gunnel

This is the approach to the lock. It has the feeling that it is a drain that we are travelling down.

The mooring for the night. Not where we should be but as the going is so slow we are running a bit late in the evening. Moor as far away from the lock as possible so that if anyone does come there is room to get in. Lee decides to go of exploring while keeping an eye open for nettles :-)

The canal now takes on the look that I remember. The view ahead is never very far which makes for an interesting life for the helmsman.

A lot of time is spent dodging the small islands of weed coming along.

The number of greens is a delight. Only to be beaten come autumn by the reds.

Lee has become at home onboard and has been here for ever.

A bit more excitement with Drakeshole Tunnel. Not much as tunnels go but its the longest on the Chesterfield canal in use at the moment.

Inside and a large number of Martins are flying about and as we get to the exit the nests start to appear.

Old Mans Briidge and an old man is on the center stone. There is another on the other side.

No. Lee is not bored and and nodded off already. She is busy answering all the messages from friends suggesting that she isnt really giving up work :-)

We arrive at Clayworth. We had walked up here earlier from the exit to the tunnel. A lovely walk with poppies, linseed fields and lovely views to be seen. We found on the towpath what looked like a load of fish scales. These were about the size of a finger nail. It must have been a large fish but what must have taken it out.

There is a nice pub in the village and the club house opens at 2000. The facilities are just after the club.

We spent the night at Hayton where there is a mooring. Very pleasant and

another pub just feet away on the bank.

We stopped for a while at Clarborough which is another nice mooring. There does seem to have been a lot done to enhance the trip since my last visit. The shop in Clarborough is closed so it is Retford or stock up earlier.

The outskirts of Retford. I am sure I have picked up some rubbish on the prop.

Retford has a nice look about it. Industrial countryside with lots of trees.

The mooring for a few days above Retford Town Lock. There is a large Asda here and a really nice town with plenty of shops five minutes walk away.

The water is very clear and the fish are easily seen. This one is about 18 inches long and one of at least nine in a group.

You can compare this one with the two ducks in the background.

The view while I sit in the bows.

Opened up the weed-hatch today and took out the first of several loads of rubbish I shall get during the visit no doubt.

Mexborough to Doncaster

2011-06-18T19:46:00.000+01:00

There are still some good kids about. These four just stopped for a chat in Mexborough. Very well behaved and polite.

The next day a group of young cyclists called in asking if I had a bike pump (I did) as one of them had a puncture. I was thanked and they went happily on their way.

While getting ready to start the trek back to Sprotborough Little Shuva came past. Always in a hurry I managed to get one of the mooring pins pulled out.

On the way down stream I spotted another statue on the bank. I must say though that I do prefer the one at Bardney which is well worth climbing on or even in.

Stopped for a short while to make a cuppa at the lock. No rush but it seems such a waste of water. Just the one narrowboat in a lock that size.

It got a bit choppy down at the Mexborough Bottom lock.

Happily for me nb Mega Jules was moored up and I was give an easy ride through the lock while he operated it for me.

Out on the river and glimpses of Conisbrough castle keep popping up.

I am not sure what they are but I have spotted several large bags floating down stream. One foot plus square on the end and 5 ft long. A number had been fished out at the lock.

At the disused mooring there seems to be a really interesting and unused playground. An ex-colliery landscaped to what? I thought it was Magma and closed looking at this or is this somewhere else.

The Conisbrough Viaduct is impressive from either direction.

and must be even more so to the people on it waving to me.

As I went under I spotted some people abseiling. I assumed that is what they are doing as they had all the gear.

At last the church tower at Sprotbrough comes into view. There are signs up to avoid the weir but you must really have problems if you end up down that part of the river.

The next day and I have the joy of a visit from Izzy. We decide that you are never to young to grab hold of a brush and start cleaning up :-)

Abz stayed with me and the ice-cream van was well attended on the other bank.

But eventually we head off to Doncaster. Having shown Abz how to work the locks she does a magnificent job and was very careful moving about. Never running was the first thing I passed on.

Its not all that far to Doncaster and the rain soon stops - almost. Its a lovely trip with lots of trees on both banks.

The lock at Doncaster and my assistant is very much at home with the controls now.

Thanks for the help and the thousand cups of tea Abz xx

Bit premature on where I am :-)

2011-05-27T13:57:00.000+01:00

I have had problems with the internet access. The worst place so far has been Sprotborough where I was going to update the blog but with no signal I was out of touch for three days. Did pick up a text occasionally but that was it.

Any way - left Barnby Dun when I thought another boater was about to go through the bridge but he was in fact only dropping in for water but kindly offered to operate the lift bridge for me.

I was determined this trip to call in at the little church I see every time I pass Sandall Grove.

Its a well cared for church but as with so many things nowadays locked up for security. The church is full of bits that can be spotted as rebuilds and extensions. Wouldn't like to hazard a guess at how many I saw in the few minutes I was there.

There is plenty of room to moor up if you fancy dropping in for a look.

Not far and its the first of the large locks at Long Sandall. Make sure that you moor up securely here as the sluices open up not far from where the bows are while going up stream.

Slight snag at the lock. The keeper was there and operated from the tower. He couldn't see that the bin men had been and the boards they use to cross the gates with had been left in place. One is now severely dented and the other needs to be replaced.

One thing that Long Sandall does have is a brilliant mooring with seats, play area and BBQ places.

The church of St George keeps popping up as you travel along with the flood defenses (I think) on one side and a large number of cleared, derelict, and used factory sites on the other. Strawberry Island is soon in view and that means its only a few more minutes to the Doncaster mooring.

After a couple of days in Doncaster I decide to move on up stream to Sprotborough.

The lock in Doncaster does look very gloomy and dark with all the road and rail bridges over and around it. Another mechanical one as they all are for miles along here.

Inside the lock there is some really nice graffiti on one of the walls. I hope the usual morons don't get their spray cans out.

On the mooring there are some lovely roses growing wild. I will try and get a few cuttings on the way back and hope that they will grow at the flat.

Just past the mooring is a link into the River Don. This would make a brilliant place to moor up with the prison on the left security should be ok one would think.

and this is where the River Don disappears off to do its own thing.

The old Clyde boat the Wyre Lady comes down with a private hire group with a party going on. Didn't stop to give me a drink but the pirate ladies on the front did offer :-)

There are a few bridges along here to break the monotony of trees. The furthest one is the A1.

At last the Sprotborough Lock. Wrong side mooring :-(

Several work boats moored just above and in the distance the pub which one moors opposite.

The Sprotborough Mooring.

The Wyre Lady has caught me up and the party is still in full swing. On Sunday she does ferry trips up and down the river picking up at the mooring outside the pub.

Behind the mooring is the weir which can be heard shushing in the background.

Still a few boats moving about including BW workboats.

and the Humber Princess makes an appearance going up stream fully loaded and a day later coming back down empty.

Out of Sprotborough and back on to the river. Tree lined and in the background of the woods are a number of quarries. My rock hammer was itching to get off and have a look.

Some of the quarries are still in use and this one at Cadeby still uses the waterways to move the stone about now and again.

Conisbrough viaduct is quite a sight and massive as you go under it. Graffiti artists have been at it here and taken their life in their hands to let us know that Daz has some white paint.

Conisbrough Castle gets a mention in the guide but there is no mooring to get ashore to have a look. There are some bollards here so at some time boats must have moored up but I didn't try - just in case :-)

The entry into the system of the River Dearne. There doesn't seem to be much water coming down at the moment.

Mexborough Low lock and another of those that have the mooring on the wrong side if you are on your own. With the large locks this is a ten day camel hike to get the gates open.

The start of Mexborough from jusy outside the low lock.

There is mention of an arch belonging to the church. I can only assume that this is it. I wonder how much longer it will last before it falls down.

Mexborough Top Lock and not far now to the mooring.

There are some bits of interest along the towpath. A pair of rather large water snails I assume getting matey :-)

and soon after a rather large butterfly that has recently had the vegetation trimmed back.

The view from the stern at Mexborough. Dash is soon ashore and giving the Magpies hell by the sound of them :-)

Donny here I come

2011-05-20T03:19:00.000+01:00

Another of the BW work boats seem to have been sold. One assumes this as the chap forrard is chipping the roof and I can't see this happening these days of health and safety.

The 'Enforcer' Mark had been around checking up on boats that had overstayed their welcome and rather than push my luck decided it was time to more on towards Doncaster.

Its only a couple of minutes and its the Thorne lock. It takes a little time to get through here with the swing bridge to be operated before you can leave the lock. Well going up stream at least. Take care here as I did find a week ago that it is possible to leave both top and bottom sluices open at the same time. They had been like this for about an hour by the time I got there and the level above the lock had dropped several inches before I had closed up.

In a wall at the lock is the above plaque. Anyone know the story. She must be linked to the lock in some fashion.

You trundle along and then you see something that reminds you of why it is such a joy (sometimes) to be on the canal. Ten ducklings all lined up on a plank of wood.

At Stainforth I pull in and moor up to make a cuppa. Dash has a wander about but didnt find anything of interest so came back. nb Verity passed as I prepared to leave so followed up to Bramwith swingbridge. As they held the bridge open for me I went on and prepared the lock.

Just a steady run now up to Barnby Dun and the lift bridge.

Behind me is the junction. The New Junction to the left - route to Goole and Leeds - to the right Thorne and Keadby.

I decided to stop at the bridge and wait for another boat to come along and either share the work or pop through if possible.

However as the next and only boat this evening was the Humber Princess I decided to stay put. Even though she is going at a very sedate speed she really moves the water about. A little later the boat starts bumping again as the Princess enters the aqueduct over the River Don.

Random Pics

2011-04-26T17:52:00.000+01:00

While Abz was here she got on really well with the lady off a nearby boat. They spent a good hour chatting about one thing and another.

It could have been because they had a dog which Abz took to.

Once Abz had gone home I had a quick trip up to Doncaster having promised a friend a trip out. On the way back on Sunday the gates of Long Sandall Lock refused to work after I was in. It is the water level indicator again.

and today a Vulcan flew over. Bit of a coincidence as the boat that had the trouble on Sunday was also a Vulcan from Stainforth.