Gorgeous autumn cruising, just!

Sunday, 15 November 2009 19:48

We left Gnosall in the sunshine

Looking back at Gnosall mooring

The countryside looked lovely

We were making for Norbury Junction as we needed water etc. and then we would decide to go on, probably.

The stop lock at the beginning of Shelmore Embankment ahead

The towpath here is often well used by walkers and today was no exception; walkers and dog walkers kept us company along the embankment. The sunshine had brought them all out!

On Shelmore Embankment - looking back

Mile post - how far shall we go?

At the end of the embankment are Norbury moorings and then Norbury Junction and we pulled in at the water point. I could hear a noise at the stern so went to investigate - the engine was making a whining noise. Calling John I wondered if one of the belts had gone and, on John's investigation, it had. What timing - as we were moored he could take it off and put a new one on!

Ahead of us was the entry to the old Newport Branch - now a boat yard

Boatyard under the bridge

John was able to order two more spare fan belts at the chandlery opposite the sani-station. We can pick them up on our way back.

Wharf, shop and chandlery

Whilst we were there, I was able to swap 11 books (!) at the book swap in the information and toilet and shower building; so regular visitors now have some new books to choose from!

After lunch, we set off again, past Ethel and Hyperion moored outside The Junction Inn

Junction Inn and boats

I will keep you "on tenter hooks" now, as it is time to stop and do the washing up! I was interrupted by Dr Who on TV - a must view for me!. It was a good episode and pointing towards David Tennant's demise as the current Dr Who (boo hoo!)

Shropshire Union Canal, Gnosall to Norbury Junction - 58 minutes, 2.39 miles, 0 locks