Our overnight mooring was chose so that we could go to St Barnabas Church in Linslade. We had opted for this on the basis of information from A Church Near You and also the parish's web site.
The church was only just over ten minutes walk away and set amongst an odd residential development dating back to the arrival of the railway. Some of the streets are terraced houses whilst scattered around are some quite substantial houses for much wealthier people, probably the merchants and traders who did well out of the new transport system.
The medieval parish of Linslade had its church at what is now called Old Linslade well over a mile outside the new town. As a result, the Victorians built a new church where the people lived - and persuaded some of the newly rich businesses to make a contribution!
It was a lively service with a hint of its Anglo Catholic tradition but, as it was billed as an All Age Family Service (there were nearly 100 people of a very wide age range!) the music was modern in style played by the well-experienced (LTRU) organist (on an electronic keyboard) with a very young lad expertly playing on the piano.
The atmosphere, whilst relaxed and informal, was very positive and enthusiastic. Before the service were were spoken to by others in the congregation and made to feel welcome.
Back at the boat we quickly changed and set off, aiming to stop about 200m further along to use the services. Alas, just as we were ready to leave a boat passed us and proceeded to tie up at the water point! However, we did hover under the bridge whilst Mike emptied the elsan and disposed of rubbish. We do need water today as we did not put much in at Aylesbury.
We went down Leighton Buzzard Lock and cruised for a little while, pulling in for a lunch stop at Old Linslade. Mike went to take a look at St Mary's, the old church but, despite being told that it was due to be open this afternoon, there was no sign nor anyone around. The churchyard is well maintained together with a new cemetery alongside. after she had finished her lunch, Christine also went to take a look, finding some wildlife to photo as well.
Setting off for the afternoon we spied a fuel boat soon after and came alongside to fill our diesel tank. At 70p a litre it was worth it! A pleasant chap who has been doing this business for over ten years.
On again and we reached Soulbury Three having followed a very slow boat for about a mile. We shared the locks with him and made swift progress through. The pub had been busy at lunch time but was gradually clearing away the debris.
Below the lock we eventually managed to fill up with water. Mike had also noticed that the central heating header tank was rather low but failed to instruct the tap operator quickly enough to avoid over filling it. Still, basic physics (much to his surprise) came to Mike's rescue as he siphoned out the excess, succeeding at the first attempt!
Only Stoke Hammond Lock between us and Milton Keynes so we continued until running out of time for the day. The weather had been kind to us even though once or twice it felt as though rain might have been on its way.
Not wanting to go through Fenny Stratford Lock tonight we moored in Water Eaton even though the typical long line of tall trees will make a tv signal impossible. (Two nights ago Mike failed to find a signal even though nothing seemed to be in the way. We are wondering if we have a problem with our equipment but it will have to wait until we have a better location before we can try again.
7.5 miles - 5 locks
No comments:
Post a Comment