Todmorden to Walsden

Sunday, 11 October 2009 10:38

Off I go - sans best crew, but with good friends

First things first, though! After Shop Lock (18) (again) we stopped for water and to get rid of rubbish. While Gypsy Rover (pictured) filled up I went ahead and emptied Library or Todmorden Lock (19). Another strange arrangement for the guillotine lock - the paddles are manually operated from the towpath side with a windlass, but the electrically operated gate is lifted and dropped from the offside.

There was no shortage of water here!

Next was "The Great Wall of Tod", a huge brick wall supporting the railway embankment, with an estimated 4 million plus bricks. I wouldn't like to have to point it!

The scenery is wonderful

 We have been amazed at the help and support we have had from people - bloggers and boaters as well as previously known friends - and as we climbed the locks who should appear from nowhere (well York actually) but Paul Balmer. Paul produces the popular "Waterway Routes" DVDs and had decided we need some help - and Dot, in particular, was very grateful. (Incidentally if you thought following our blog and Gypsy Rover's gave a stereo effect, looking at Paul's as well gives added dimension).

And so we reached Walsden - next to the famous Grandma Pollards Fish and Chip shop - ideal for taking on the train to see Fi - who appears to be doing OK again after a minor blip.

Rochdale Canal, Todmorden to Walsden - 4 hours 28 minutes 1.66 miles 10 Locks