Kidsgrove

We were away in good time this morning to avoid any congestion delays at the tunnel which was a short, very straight run away. As we approached we could see directly in front of us the original tunnel entrance, replaced later by the larger Telford tunnel.

We checked in with the tunnel keeper - we were actually the second boat to arrive, the first was about fifteen minutes ahead of us and we were asked to wait a few minutes for a further boat to catch us up. He could then avoid opening the tunnel doors a further time! These doors have a fan built into them to ensure that there is good ventilation and when the doors were closed after both boats were inside, there was a very definite increase in air speed.

Andrew was at the tiller and we passed through without touching the sides once! If only Standedge will be like that!

The other end of the tunnel we passed Hall Green Junction where the Macclesfield canal leaves, to pass over the Trent and Mersey a short distance ahead and then comes the start of the Red Bull flight of locks - most of the locks in this section are doubled. A large sign outside the pub at the first lock reminded us that it was the day of the Royal Wedding: at least one of us had completely forgotten! However, it did mean that a much larger number of boats than usual were moored up with their television masts at the ready! Also close by is a reminder of the former Kidsgrove Gas Light Company.

We stopped at Red Bull services for the usual and then continued on down to Church Lawton where we moored. After a lazy lunch break, Mike and Andrew set off to walk to Kidsgrove station to catch a train to Willington, via Derby in order to pick up cars from Mercia Marina and bring them back to the boat. The journey was very smooth and just as planned.

The church of Church Lawton is curious - its nave is obviously a lot more recent than its tower. The following morning we called in for coffee and to look inside the church. Its tower is 16th century with remains of a Norman entrance door but the main part of the chancel fell down and was replaced in the 19th century in the style of a non-conformist chapel, complete with a West Gallery but also an organ!