Mancetter to Polesworth

 Stephen (and some helpers) spent quite a lot of time over the winter installing radiators in the boat. One advantage of having radiators is that we can set a timer and wake up to a warm boat, rather than getting up in the cold and lighting the stove.

We were on the move soon after 8.30 and made our way towards Atherstone Locks. As we approached, Steve stopped to chat with a boater he’d been able to help out during lockdown. While we were stopped, a boat went past us, so we decided to take on water before going down the locks. Steve took the opportunity to wash the second side of the boat.

By the time we were ready to start the locks, we were following at least three other boats, so it was quite slow going. But the weather was dry and we had plenty of time. There was even time to make coffee as we waited our turn.

At one of the lower locks we met a boater who already had collected a good amount of wood ready for next winter – he had some on his roof and the rest in the boating equivalent of a trailer.

We stopped for lunch at the bottom of the locks, but soon after we restarted, Steve realised we had a problem with the engine overheating. We pulled into the side and Steve soon discovered a hose which had come loose at one end. He fixed this, but not before a good amount of water and antifreeze had leaked into places where it shouldn’t be.  After a quick phone call, we continued on our way and were able to borrow a wet and dry vacuum to mop up the water.

We moored for the night at Pooley Hall Country Park and after our evening meal, we enjoyed a walk around part of the park.

Hawthorn coming into bloom

Yesterday’s miles and locks – 11.75 miles  1 lock

Today’s miles and locks – 6.75 miles  11 locks

Total miles and locks – 18.5 miles  12 locks