Alice Joins Us

We awoke to a bright, sunny day once more, with almost no wind - quite a change from the night before. The first part of the day was to cruise along the long summit pound. This section still follows the original contour route, not having benefitted from the straightening which modernised the northern part of the Oxford canal. For most of the summit pound the tall radio mast near Wormleighton is visible but, as the canal meanders, sometimes to the left and then a few minutes later on the other side.

By mid-day we arrived at Fenny Marine only to discover that they were closed for lunch. Nevertheless, we wanted to look for several items, including a possible replacement for the main water pump which has been leaking ever since we set off, so we waited for them to re-open. Alas, we failed to sort out a new pump (they did not have anyone who could advise on which one was appropriate) nor the fuses! The couple of items we did pick up could well have waited until Banbury!




We continued through the long cutting that was once Fenny Compton tunnel and arrived at Claydon top lock on schedule. We were aiming to meet Alice, along with Joanna and Jessica, at 2.30 at the bridge by the middle lock. Both boat and car arrived at the same time!



After the lock we moored for tea, crumpets, cake and a chat whilst Alice reminded herself of where everything is on the boat. After tea we completed the Claydon locks, with Alice confidently helping Grandad with emptying and filling the lock and opening the gates, including crossing over the top gates.



Below the locks, Joanna and Jessica bade farewell and we continued on with Alice who is staying a couple of nights. There was not really enough time to get through the next three locks so we quickly found a good mooring in the bight sunshine which were able to enjoy until the sun set and the temperature quickly fell. Alice helped to clean part of the boat, fetching the mop from the other end of the roof.