As we missed the opening time for the bridge @ Aldermaston (5 - 6pm & again at
dusk) last night we moored outside the canal shop, had dinner and went to the
pub. The pub was closed due to the flooding so back to the boat & more wine.
Roger checked the closing time in the morning. (8-9am). It was 7.45 so we went
for it. Ken & Annie were getting up but Roger had the ropes off and away round
to the sani station with the little boat breasted up. The plan was to introduce
Ken & Annie to the joys of self pumpouts whilst I cooked breakfast. Luckily for
Ken & Annie the elsan disposal had a notice 'out of order blocked BW aware'.
Roger checked and it was. BW told us later in the day that it was sorted but we
were by then heading west.
Breakfast finished we headed towards Newbury. Much laughter at Colthrop lock as
it had a wet paint sign & the lock was like a sieve with water p*****g through
it. Obviously the paint budget was intact.
Our internet crew were surprised with the variety of conditions encountered
then we got to Woolhampton. The lock was opened and Annie stayed guard, Ken did
bridge duty and I followed Roger into the lock. An interesting ride as there is
now a boat moored permanently on the offside and a boat was broken down on the
pub moorings. I got into the lock & that is all I am saying.
Ben & Lady behaved as though they had boated together for years. I couldn't
believe how well a strange dog fitted in. Ken & Annie fitted in well as well,
even though they had turned up with a broken rib apiece. Seemed to be taking
togetherness to extremes. I am sorry we made you laugh so much.
We made it to Newbury where we had dinner and bid our new friends farewell. I
can thourally recommend internet crews. Will someone please set up a site where
crew can volunteer their services for us boaters when we need crew. It would be
so useful for those times an extra pair of hands are needed.
We are having a rest and new crew turn up monday morn. This time friends that
we have press ganged.
Thank you so much Ken, Annie & Lady for your help & company.
Sue nb Nackered Navvy
