Leicester

Today's Canal - Grand Union Leicester Arm

Christine writing this blog since Mike has deserted ship!

Loughborough Basin

As a result it will a) be short and b) not have many photos. Yes she knows women are supposed to be better at multi-tasking than men, but when there are locks at almost mile intervals, frequent coffee to be made, washing up to be done, etc, etc to have to take photos as well is asking rather much!

The day started in brilliant sunshine. Mike was turned off the boat near the station - checks having been made that he had wallet, money, tickets, keys, lunch and so on.

Well-equipped accessibility charity

 Unfortunately, although it was reasonably warm and sunny, there were also strong winds and quite a flow on the river, which created 'interesting' situations at times, especially when coming out of locks, with a weir close by. Andrew and Christine will not forget the exit from Thurmaston in a hurry! A push off by Andrew and lots of engine welly from Christine at last succeeded - a matter of keeeping on going and hoping! (Sorry Andy the blacking is no longer looking pristine but I don't think we've damaged your shiny smooth paintwork yet!)

The River Soar is very beautiful thanks to the absence of very high flood embankments and also plenty of villages along the route to vary the scene. The flood lock at Pillings was like the previous one surprisingly closed. Pillings Marina, scene of recent controversy, looked very settled and peaceful. Barrow on Soar provided the only access to sanitary sevices on the route so a quick stop there.

Below Sileby Lock

At Cossington, Christine was reminded of Cossington Mill at the end of the 60s. When she and Mike were first married and living in Loughborough, that had been a favourite special meal restaurant. Now no longer there. Anyone else remember it. When did it come to an end?

Birstall, where Christine taught for three years '67-'70: there is no sign of the school from the river and in fact the village only briefly touches on the river.

National Space Centre

Somewhat cloudy in the afternoon. The locks into Leicester gradually became heavier and stiffer - much maintenance needed, The river became more windy and narrower.

Autumn Colours

Should be a good mobile signal near here!

At last, with the help of friendly natives, travelling past some remnants of the past - chimneys left standing - Wolsey (woolly socks?) - and factories now converted, the centre of Leicester was in view.

There was plenty of space on the visitor moorings at Castle Gardens. But no TV signal, so no Downton Abbey tonight!

Later before it was dark, Andrew went for a wander. He had done most of the steering today, against the strong winds, so felt the need for some exercise.

17.3 miles - 11 locks