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Millie's Log Our first technical hitch was discovered two days before departure - the company which was generously providing high-speed mobile computer communications for feeding back pictures and reports to our website had gone into liquidation. We did our utmost to keep reports as up to date as possible. Some photographs have been incorporated into our log, with plenty of others displayed in our Photo Diary A big Thank You has to go the Rotary Club of Llangollen. Entering into the true spirit of Rotary they held a Hog Roast at the canal side on the eve of our departure. More than 150 people were in attendance including District Governor Colin James. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Day 42 - Thursday, 19th May (Dave Mason) Ready to leave at 9am, the last day of the voyage, Mike bought everyone bacon baps and croissants from Vermuellens bakery, well recommended. Collected our passenger and set off for Trevor and Llangollen. Returned the anchors to Maestermyn, moved on and were met by Colin James, District Governor near the last 2 locks of the trip at Long Marton. He accompanied us all the way to Llangollen. Colin Laughlin joined us by Paddy’s bridge and we headed for home. The Shropshire Star met us at Chirk Bank, interviewed us and took lots of photos. We were disappointed not to see anybody from any of the other local papers which had been notified. Passing over the Aqueduct was quite a moving experience knowing that this trip would probably never be done again by Millie or the crews who took part in the voyage. We arrived at Trevor to a welcoming group complete with balloon, off-loaded our visitors and also our President who was going to see Star Wars!! Norma joined us on board for the final lap. We moved on to Llangollen and were met at the Sun Trevor by Stan’s wife Kathryn who magically produced a bottle of Champagne complete with glasses. Well enjoyed. The voyage finally ended at Llangollen Wharf around 7pm. We were met by Gwynne Belton and David Bentley. More Champagne flowed and that was it. All over. I thank everyone who was involved with this project for their support and assistance for without any of that it would still be a pipe dream. Maybe the Caledonian Canal from Fort William to Inverness along the Great Glen next!!! ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Day 41 - Wednesday 18th May (Dave Mason) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Day 40 - Tuesday 17th May (Dave Mason) Left Barbridge at 8.30am for Willey Moor. Completed the circle for the trip at Hurlesdon Junction. I think the boat wanted to head south again and repeat the trip!! Headed west on to the Llangollen Canal. A quiet run to Willey Moor passing through Wrenbury and Marbury. A lot of anglers fishing in a competition near Wrenbury. Arrived at Willey Moor to be met by a couple of Rotarians from the Whitchurch Club. Apparently they put people on the Lyneal boat so could not support us. David Bentley’s wife Susan arrived and took him home at 4.30pm. Mike and Cheryl arrived and we had a good evening and meal before Cheryl departed for home and Dublin!! ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Day 39 - Monday 16th May (Dave Mason) A new passenger arrived and we departed towards Middlewich passing by the salt mines and factories. The canal here did smell of brine. It was a difficult turn off the Trent & Mersey on to the Middlewich Arm of the Shroppie where we were accused of queue jumping by holiday boats, as if we would do such a thing!! We arrived at Barbridge Junction turned left on the Shroppie and moored up by the Barbridge Inn. Our passengers departed and we retired to the pub for succour and refreshment. Good old Bombardier again!! Pat’s daughters’ came to collect her after her stint finished, they had a meal with us and obviously love sticky toffee pudding!! ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Day 38 - Sunday 15th May based on dictation by Peter Lockley, adapted by Pat Thomas We awoke to sunshine and sausages – something Peter had really looked forward to. A locked access meant that we then had to depart in reverse, up a lock, to collect our visitors for the day! It was a great day. Heather, our mentally handicapped young lady, after a few reservations, relaxed and enjoyed the day - especially the chocolates which her dad brought for us. He had a splendid time working the locks and was extremely grateful for their special day out. Bill and John spent a good day also, watching everything from inside and had a great day with. lots of fun, chats and smiles. James and Izzy, their carers, were also delighted to work the locks and shared a good time with us. Peter departed for home and Dave and Stan arrived back from their busman’s holiday. We had worked down Heartbreak Hill, a difficult flight of locks down to Wheelock. Moored next to the Italian Café and the Cheshire Cheese Inn, good pint of Hyde’s Jekyll Gold was enjoyed. Early to bed with Cocoa after an excellent meal in the Italian restaurant!! ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Day 37 - Saturday 14th May based on dictation by Peter Lockley, adapted by Pat Thomas We awoke to a fine bright warm morning. We were awoken by a Virgin at 5am, 6am and 7am!! The female galley slaves prepared a hearty breakfast. We then proceeded onwards. After very intensive training the female crew were allowed to fly solo and open locks whilst preparing endless meals. We then arrived at the Harecastle Tunnel having observed a lot of old bricks in the shape of kilns, which we immortalised on film (sad)!! We entered the tunnel in convoy and proceeded forward, the captain and his mate did an excellent job including putting out the headlight twice by leaning on the push switch. We had to call in at the Red Bull on arrival at Kidsgrove to congratulate ourselves on our magnificent efforts. The evening was spent in the company of Rotarians. Very nice meal, we were treated by our fellow Rotarians who then went home at a reasonable hour. Sometime later we managed to get Peter out of the Red Bull (despite the fact that he thought there was going to be a lock-in) to prepare for the next busy day and sausages for breakfast. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Day 36 - Friday 13th May (Peter Lockley) Departed from Great Heywood with extreme ENE winds, very cold even though the sun was out. Great trouble with wind sheer. Ran aground near to British Waterways dredging operations but eventually extracted ourselves and headed for Stone Bottom Lock. It was here that we took pity on Peter and his next all girl crew and moved on through 8 more locks before arriving at Balderston village where we moored up for the night. This action left Peter with just six locks the next day through Stoke and would make sure he arrived at the Harecastle Tunnel with plenty of time to go through! Dave and Stan departed to have a busman’s holiday the next day on the Manchester Ship canal before rejoining the boat on the Sunday. Pat and Barbara arrived and a very pleasant evening was spent telling Tales from the riverbank along with imbibing a few drinks. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Day 35 - Thursday 12th May (Peter Lockley) Departed Hopwas for Colwich or beyond. A good day’s run. Called at Streetley marine for a pump-out and refuel. No charge for the pump-ut and £30 knocked off the fuel bill - thank you. Arrived at Fradley Junction lunchtime and turned left on to the Trent & Mersey canal. Quite a few locks to traverse. Moved on to the edge of the Shrugborough Estate and stayed the night by the Wolsley Arms. Reputedly where James Brindley met local pottery makers to discuss the building of the canal. It was here that the first cuttings of the Trent & Mersey took place. Another good collection. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Day 34 - Wednesday 11th May (Peter Lockley) Left Hartshill with passenger and carer supplied by Coventry Rotary Club, they were brought by Bill (ex Nat West Wrexham, known to Glyn Pryce!!). See feedback report from Jill. A good run to Kettlebrook passing under the M42, M6 and M69. Seemed more like we were getting near home. Called at Polesworth where we bought a new supply of home-cured bacon and Cumberland sausages! Passengers departed at Kettlebrook, we decided to move on to find better moorings and ended up in the village of Hopwas. Moored next to the Red Lion. A great pub selling Bombardier and Broadside ales. Dave nearly adopted a lurcher! Good meal and camaraderie with a good collection going into the box. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Day 33 - Tuesday 10th May (Peter Lockley) Departed Newbold for Hartshill, another cold day. Arrived at Hawksbury
Junction to find we had to pass through a 6-inch lock!! The reason being
that the canal we were leaving (the North Oxford) like all other canals
would not share their water with other systems, so stop locks were built
to keep it back. Having filled up with water we proceeded through the
lock and traversed a 180-degree turn on to the Coventry canal, at last
we were now heading north west and homeward, bound for the Trent &
Mersey canal. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Day 32 - Monday 9th May (Peter Lockley) Left Weedon Wharf, passenger cancelled due to illness. Bitter wind all day. Passed by Rugby radio masts. Arrived at Brownsover for a crew change, Malcolm and Brian departed for home to be replaced by Dave Mason and Malcolm Bampton. Dave had already done a recce on the pub and decided to move on to Newbold-on-Avon for better moorings and hostelry. A good move. The Brew 11 was excellent. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Day 31 - Sunday 8th May (Peter Lockley) Left Cosgrove at 9.20am with 3 passengers and carers. Set off in blizzard conditions. Went through Stoke Breune Museum for a hearty lunch of corned beef butties prepared by Jamie Oliver (Malcolm Taylor) before departing for Blisworth Tunnel, what an experience, which was uneventful except for a visiting Rotarian standing in front of the light, plunging us into total darkness. Met Glyn Pryce and son who provided us with Manchengo cheese, roasted almendras, pickled pimentos and wine. Arrived Weedon slightly late and were fortunate enough to moor in front of the Narrowboat Inn. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Day 30 - Saturday, 7th May (Ralph Lawson) We woke up to heavy rain which fortunately stopped before our passengers, Wendy Thompson and Jackie Starkey arrived. We set off at 8:45am, in a cold blustery wind which lasted all day with occasional heavy showers and sunny spells. Our two ladies were quite happy and obviously enjoyed each other’s company. It was just a pity that it was too cold to take them on deck. We arrived at Cosgrove shortly after 4:00pm where the President of Milton Keynes Rotary Club was waiting to collect our two guests. We were also met by Peter Lockley and Stanley Crabtree who were taking over from David Shone and myself. Our part of the journey has ended from Cowley Peachey to Cosgrove we have sailed approximately sixty miles and negotiated seventy seven locks. It has been most interesting and thanks to our two crews, great fun with plenty of laughs and good humour. Happy sailing to Peter and Stanley. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Day 29 - Friday, 6th May (Ralph Lawson) We were hoping to have another guest and carer today from Milton Keynes
Grand Union R.C. but unfortunately he was not well enough to come. We
told Keith we would hang on until 9:00am in case they managed to find
someone else but nobody came so we left Pitstone shortly after nine. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Day 28 - Thursday, 5th May (Ralph Lawson) Sailed from Berkhamstead at 8:30am, the canal following the main rail
line with trains passing every two to three minutes in both directions.
The main operator was Virgin with their high-speed trains travelling
in excess of 100 mph, just a little bit faster than Millie! I didn’t
realise Richard Branson owned so many train sets. Everything went well
until we got to Bulbourne Junction and going down in the lock Millie
caught her rudder on the cill, dislodging the main shaft from its base.
Fortunately a friendly boat owned by Mr & Mrs Malcolm Jones offered
to tow us down to Pitstone. This was thankfully accepted and we arrived
at 16:00 hrs. The boatyard had a quick look at our problem and were
able to lift the tiller shaft back into its correct location within
five minutes, free of charge. We were all highly relieved ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Day 27 - Wednesday, 4th May (Ralph Lawson) Not having had any passengers during our first two days, we were looking forward to entertaining four guests and their four carers and we couldn’t have wished for a happier group led by Rtn. Jack Debnam. The first lady I helped off their vehicle was originally from Camarthen and her first few words to me were in Welsh. I hope she was not too disappointed when I had to tell her she had picked a Scot to speak to first. Not only did they bring their own packed lunch but they brought a picnic lunch for the crew as well, including chicken pieces, pork pies, sandwiches, wine and beer. The ladies simply took over the kitchen area and did everything. It was marvelous. The weather had unfortunately changed but the early morning rain stopped before our guests arrive, although it remained cloudy all day with a cold northerly wind. We left Apsley Marina at 9:30am and arrived at Berkhamstead at 15:15 hrs where their transport was waiting. A happy and successful day, enjoyed by all. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Day 26 - Tuesday, 3rd May (Ralph Lawson) Sailed from Cassiobury at 8:30am continuing our journey northwards. Another perfect day for enjoying the countryside and wildlife and hoping, that with eight passengers coming on board tomorrow, this weather would continue. David Shone has impressed us with his bird-spotting abilities and has already built up a considerable list, including three Red Kites. We arrived at Apsley Marina, Hemel Hempstead at 15:00 hrs. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Back to schedule Millie was brought back to our published schedule on Tuesday 3rd May. We are pleased to announce that all passengers who were booked for a trip during the period in which Millie was out of action have now enjoyed a trip on an alternative date. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Day 25 - Monday, 2nd May (Ralph Lawson) Having taken over from the self-styled three wise men, the new crew, headed by Ralph Lawson, David Shone (Trust), Bill Evans and Malcolm T Brown familiarized themselves with the boat and were disappointed to find that the fridge had broken down with stacks of bacon which just had to be eaten. A substantial meal was had by all. We left Cowley Peachey at 9am and started our journey northwards. As we had two days to reach Hemel Hempstead there was no need to hurry. The first two miles were no great advert for canal cruising. Boats of all types were moored on both sides of the canal, many of which had long since been abandoned with rubbish everywhere. However we soon reached open country north of Uxbridge and started to appreciate the countryside in perfect spring weather. Reaching Rickmansworth, we came across a large Tesco with its own landing stage and so took the opportunity to do a bit of shopping. A little later on we stopped at Cassiobury for the night. Time 18:30 hrs. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Day 24 - Sunday, 1st May (Dave Mason) Up early ready for the tidal waters, passed through Teddington Lock at 08.20 hrs with a bit of trepidation which soon disappeared as the river was calm and we were on the top of the tide. Millie was like a three year old in the Derby showing off her paces. It was a great run down to Brentford and sadly all too soon it was over and we were back on the murky waters of the Grand Union. We had passed by some wonderful buildings and sites on this section, Eel Pie Island, Twickenham, Marble Hill, Richmond Bridge, Richmond Hill, Star & Garter Home, Kew Gardens, and Syon House (home of the Duke of Northumberland). We entered the Grand Union and moved up to Brentford Gauging Locks where we embarked three passengers. Moving on we arrived at the Hanwell Flight of 10 locks where we embarked five more passengers. Again the banks were too high but eventually we got them on board. This part of the journey was very boring, passing though industrial areas of London. The canal was filthy with all kinds of pollution. I was concerned that plastic bags or clothing would get wrapped around the prop; there was even a motorbike that had been thrown in!! We finally arrived at a Tesco store with moorings. After doing a bit food shopping Mike and I were pushing the trolley back to the boat (as you do!) and the wheels jammed. Unknown to us this is a ploy by the supermarket to stop trolleys moving off their premises. Should be used up here to stop them going in the Gwenfro!! Finally we arrived at the Cowley Peachey marina where the 3 wise men would be relieved by the 4 musketeers. It was good to see them. By this time we had made up the lost 6 days and set the boat back on track to arrive at Llangollen on time. A good hard working crew, lots of fun and proud to be with them. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Day 23 - Saturday, 30th April (Dave Mason) Departed the Runnymede at 08.00 and moved down river to Staines Bridge to collect our next passengers. We did have difficulty embarking them as the quays are too high for Millie, but we persevered and finally got them on board setting off for Kingston upon Thames. A good run down passing Chertsey, Weybridge, where we had to make a
diversion via Shepperton due to a regatta taking place on the Desborough
Cut, Walton on Thames, Sunbury, before arriving at Hampton Court Palace
of which we had magnificent views only seen from the river. Finally
we arrived at Kingston and disembarked our passengers via floating jetty,
this was quite an experience for them!! We moved on down river to moor up at Teddington Lock ready for the great adventure on the tidal waters. We had no idea how Millie would react to being on salt water!! We had to wait until the next morning for the high tide at 08.00hrs to enter the next section, so with heavy heart we crossed the footbridge into Teddington and lo and behold there was a lovely little pub called the Tide End Cottage which served Tanner Jack. We were in heaven again!!! We sat outside on the only table that had some room on it; this fortunately was also occupied by two ladies who kindly allowed us to sit with them. As it turned out they were really chatty, they were from Knutsford and Belper, even bought us a pint!! Then they were off to a party in Wimbledon. We were then joined by two husband and wife crews who were travelling down river with us next morning. Their objective this year was to reach Kendal, in the Lake District travelling north via the Grand Union, Trent and Mersey, Shroppie, Liverpool and Leeds, Ribble canals and then onto the Lancaster Canal which has now been reopened. They would be out for six months. We had had a good day. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ On the move again! Millie's damaged con-rod and blown cylinder head gasket have now been repaired and our journey recommenced on Friday morning, 29th April for the final stages to London. We are planning to cover extra distance each day and dispense with the two spare days in London. This should enable us to return to our orginal schedule on the morning of 4th May. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Day 22 - Friday 29 April (Dave Mason) Up early to fill up with water and fuel. Passengers arrived on time and we departed around 0930hrs down river. Good views of Cliveden House before reaching Maidenhead where we were ‘gongoozled’ at the bridge.
Lots of expensive pads on this stretch of the river, a case of ‘Who
lives in a house like that’. I had had to learn how to operate the locks at Windsor as the lock keeper had gone off for a swan. Very simple as the are all electrified, thoughts of the 40 Lapworth and Hatton flights briefly crossed my mind with the idea of telling British Waterways how easy it would be if those fights were mechanised as well, but then on reflection, all the fun and games would be lost!!! The evening meal was very good, washed down with a very good red picked
by our hotelier crewmember. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Day 21 - Thursday, 28th April (Dave Mason) Up at 06.30, morning tea served in bed to the rest of the crew, quite a cold day with the wind from the SE whipping the surface of the river. Local people travel by boat to school and work here. Good breakfast then cleaned up the boat, no news about the repairs, maybe later today. Went for a walk up the village for bread, milk etc. Mike walked along the riverbank for some exercise as far as the Yacht Club. We saw three Mallard ducks drowned by their male counterparts during the mating games, a very sad way of life for them. One had survived and built a nest in a flower box next to our mooring, I believe there were 12 eggs that she was sitting on. Good news, the cylinder head had returned from the skimmer and was
ready to be replaced. Work was completed by 1830hrs and Millie was river
tested by the engineer and declared fit again. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Day 20 - Wednesday, 27th April (Dave Mason)
Arrived at Bourne End approx 1530hrs near Marlow on the River Thames to take over Millie who was not in good fettle. She had blown the head gasket, bent a con rod, lost her cool(ant) and was feeling very sorry for her self. However we were met by the previous crew who had spent their time exploring the local area discovering the best hostelries for refreshment. They could not get away quickly enough!! We were told that Millie would not be ready to move until Friday, we settled in, had some refreshment, watched the trains go by and decided we had better find somewhere to watch the Liverpool v Chelsea (of whom Mike Kagan is a big fan!!), eventually we found the Walnut Tree Inn, a 16th C pub, where lo and behold the local Rotary Club met on a Wednesday evening. But not this night! Maybe had something to do with the football. A very pleasant repast was enjoyed and we settled down to watch the match. Very good ale, Tanner Jack brewed by Morland’s in Bury St Edmunds. Mike disappointed at the result. We left and called for a nightcap at the Firefly Inn before retiring for a night on the Thames. With all the overhead noise it appears we are directly under the flight path out of Heathrow. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Crew and Millie were due to arrive at Cherstey bridge on the 25th and we were invited to attend a special dinner of the Chertsey Rotary Club that evening. But, as everyone now knows, Millie became ill with exhaustion and decided to rest at Bourne End - somewhere between Marlow and Maidenhead. She couldn’t have opted for a better place to stop; a marina with good facilities and a mechanic at hand. So, the crew of Gwilym, Harry, Handel and Selwyn (Boat Trust) together with our President - Michael, Glyn and Colin Burman (Boat Trust) set off by car on a forty minute drive to Chertsey. The Rotary Club was inaugurated in 1943 – just three clubs in the whole country were inaugurated in that year. We arrived at our meeting place, the Crown Hotel, to be met by the President Elect, David Thompson. The turn out of members of the home club was disappointing but they had moved the dinner night from their usual Tuesday slot to accommodate us. Glyn Pryce had made friends with Derek Cotty who was their link man with us - he had been producer of the TV series ‘The Bill’ for over 10 years. Another of their members, David Williams had spent part of his national service with the Pioneer Corp in Wrexham. We were very well entertained and the wine flowed freely. Our President introduced visiting members, including Colin Burman of the Boat Trust. Michael’s ongoing speech and jokes were appreciated by the home club!!!! Colin gave a well rehearsed speech about the Llangollen Boat Trust and he kindled much interest in the canal boat concept. Handel had the task of driving everyone back to Bourne End and then onto Wrexham where we arrived at 1.30 on Tuesday morning. As driver, he received so many conflicting directions from the happy group that it’s lucky the car arrived back in Wrexham at all.!!! Overall, some disappointments caused by Millie’s mechanical problems, but also much camaraderie and good fellowship brought about by Chertsey Rotary Club entering wholeheartedly into the spirit of our project – THANK YOU! ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Day 18 - Monday, 25th April No start was possible and the boat remained at Bourne End for the rest of the day. This meant that unfortunately the three disabled passengers who should have come on board were unable to do so and it is hoped that some alternative arrangements can be made for them at a later date. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Day 17 - Sunday 24th April (Harry Bainbridge) We saw many more swans on this stretch of the river than we expected and what with these and all the people rowing there was a lot of activity on the river. It was a nice day and the lovely houses on this stretch greatly impressed us. We passed Bisham Abbey where there were a great many canoeists about and we stopped for lunch just below the lock at Marlow having marvelled at the elegant suspension bridge before continuing to Bourne End where we stayed for the night. (It was on reaching Marlow Locks that we suspected something was wrong with Millie's engine and after contacting an engineer we limped two miles to Bourne End where we remained through the rest of the day. A decision was made with the Canalboat Trust to engage the services of an engineer to repair the cylinder head gasket that had blown.) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Day 16 - Saturday, 23rd April (Harry Bainbridge) There were more boats on this stretch of the river but this did not cause a problem since the river had by now become much wider. We were now approaching Reading and had to share Mapledurham Lock with a cruiser that was approaching from astern. All the lock keepers were very helpful and we enjoyed talking to them. They were interested to know where we were going as we had the Rotary banners on the side of the boat. We then passed through Sonning Bridge before reaching Henley where some of the crew members were leaving for home and others coming on board. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Day 15 - Friday, 22nd April (Harry Bainbridge) We took on board Nicola Hawthorne and her carer for the next part of our journey. It was dry but cold until lunchtime when they were able to sit out on the foredeck and enjoy the sunshine. We telephoned the Rotarian who had brought them to the boat so that he could meet us and after waving goodbye we proceeded to Whitchurch-on-Thames where we moored for the night. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Day 14 - Thursday, 21st April (Harry Bainbridge) We passed through the suburbs of Oxford with its colleges and boathouses on the banks and had to contend with some of the oarsmen out training. We then passed through three locks. These are much wider than on the canal system and are usually manned. The night was spent at Culham. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ It was a dry but cold morning when we left our mooring. We passed through open countryside and then through wooded areas where we saw a kingfisher darting along th canal. There was not much traffic on this stretch until we reached Oxford. We entered the River Thames at Dukes Cut and continued as far as Godstow where we moored for the night. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ We arrived at Lower Heyford Boat Yard in Oxfordshire just in time to see Millie approaching in the distance. After a smooth changeover of crews we waved goodbye to those returning to Wrexham and then walked into the village for a meal before retiring for the night. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Day 12 - Tuesday, 19th April (Dave Mason) Left Cropredy at 9am running light to Lower Heyford. The canal is accompanied most of the way by the Birmingham to Paddington old GWR line on one side and the noise of the M40 on the other. We noticed the railway was very busy, trains every couple of minutes – so it appears they may well run to time!! Passed under the motorway a couple of times then joined by the River Cherwell after passing through Banbury. Not much of the old town can be seen from the canal due to the redevelopment of the area, which is a shame. We now are travelling through water meadows with lots of wild flowers in bloom, including carpets of Mayflowers and Wild Ransom. Many birds were seen today. Magpies, Jays, Rooks, Greenfinches, Goldfinches, Bullfinches, Linnets, Chaffinches, Yellow Bunting, Yellow Hammer, Reed Bunting, Skylark, Pied wagtail, Grey Wagtail, Swans, Geese and Ducks. Weather suddenly changed and we had a thunderstorm along with hailstones and a temperature drop. We finally arrived at Lower Heyford to be met by the next crew.
Carys and Barney, still managing to raise a smile at the end of their stint All in all we have had a wonderful time, a good and happy crew that gelled well together really well. I thank them for their company and good humour. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Day 11 - Monday, 18th April (Dave Mason) Up early, the crew had tea in bed again, weather wet but blue sky appearing from the west. Filled up the water tanks and collected our next visitors. Set off for Cropredy with the windmill on Napton Hill behind us. The canal meanders quite a lot here as it follows a contour line south. The windmill was still in view at lunchtime so obviously we had not moved very far the south, but all was to change. The canal at last changed direction and the windmill finally disappeared. Arrived at Cropredy by 5pm to be met by our passengers’ parents and Bill Carlisle along with his President. Moored up by the Cropredy Bridge, scene of the battle of Cropredy Bridge in 1644 where the Royalists held off Cromwell’s forces and saved the village. Had a good night in the Red Lion along with the Rotarians who stayed for some inbibement, namely Hook Norton local bitter. Very good too!!
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Day 10 - Sunday, 17th April (Dave Mason) Up at 6-30am. Sunny. Mist rising off the canal. Breakfast (butties bacon) and ready to move by 9am. Moved on with our Colonial friends to climb through the 10 Stockton locks. The canal was busier today. Stopped for lunch (excellently prepared by Carys) by Gibraltar Bridge with our new friends. More swallows seen, so maybe summer is on the way. Canal water colour changed due to leakage from the Blue Lias stone and clay workings. Three more locks then turned south on to the Oxford canal at Napton Junction.
Reached the Folly Bridge Inn by 4pm. Moored up, cup of tea, then phone call from Glyn Pryce enquiring of our location. We are surrounded by picturesque countryside. Green Woodpecker feeding 30ft away, beautiful plumage, along with rabbits and ducks. Visited by Bill Carlisle from Daventry Rotary Club who has arranged the next day’s passengers. The pub was closed in the evening but Bill had a word with the landlord who opened up especially for us!!! Cold front moving in and heavy rain coming down. Boat cleaned thoroughly throughout. We are all in good spirits. The medication is still working!! A pair of mallards keep tapping on the window for bread. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Day 9 - Saturday, 16th April (Dave Mason) Up early. Left the mooring and called at Tesco’s for replenishment. Had a good run up to Long Itchington via Leamington Spa through 11 locks with another boat crewed by an Aussie Sheila and an American from Virginia, we thought he was a Howard Keel look-alike. Countryside very interesting through fields full of broad beans and rapeseed. Lots of wildlife seen, mallards, Canada geese, more swallows etc. We were then under the flight path for Birmingham and Coventry airports, very busy. Good pub at Long Itchington, menu contained more pies and the house speciality was home made faggots in gravy!! Heavy frost by the morning, the mop was frozen on the deck.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Day 8 - Friday, 15th April (Dave Mason) Left at 8:15am ready for the 20 locks. True to their word, Mike and Penny arrived and we had a good run down and finished by 11:30am. Gave them tea and coffee and departed Lapworth at 12:30pm. Moved onto the Grand Union canal heading for Warwick. 20 more locks before evening!
The canals are very quiet – loads of wildlife including swallows. Motorways look different from below! Finished all the locks and absolutely shattered we arrived at Warwick and met up with Barney and Carys who had travelled down by train and were already installed in the local hostelry sampling the local brew!! Had a lovely time moored up outside the Cape of Good Hope hostelry. Good meal and company entertained with Irish folk songs and music until midnight. Not that we had stayed that late. Visited by Warwick Rotary club, but they forgot to bring the money they had collected. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Day 7- Thursday, 14th April (Dave Mason) Left Coseley and passed through 3 locks, thankfully that was all for the day. Had a good run through the industrial heart of Dudley, Sandwell and Birmingham, so many derelict buildings, before arriving at . . .
. . . Gas Street Junction where we turned west onto the Birmingham – Worcester Canal.
Very impressed with the centre of the city. Arrived at Cadbury’s Wharf, Bournville, and a party were waiting to receive the cocoa beans that had travelled with us from Chirk. We were given yet more chocolate to sustain us on our journey. Photos were taken and we departed, moving on to King’s Norton Junction where we joined the Stratford-upon-Avon canal. A quiet and peaceful run. Refuelled and pumped out on the way. Made good time and went further than anticipated, as far as Lapworth. Had a good night with Mike and Penny from Andover, who said they would help us down the 20 locks next day. Collected in the pub. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Day 6 - Wednesday, 13th April (Dave Mason) Collected passenger and set off for the 21 locks into Wolverhampton. Arrived to find we needed a special key to open them. Walked back a mile to Autherley Junction to purchase one - £4:35! Very interesting through the locks as British Waterways had just painted them. Stan and I have started a new fashion for black and white daubed trousers. Dropped our passenger off at 1600hrs then headed for Factory Junction, Coseley. Canada geese and Tufted Duck seen. Not much food being eaten as we are too busy coping with the locks.
Stopped the night at Factory Junction, had a good meal in the Pie Factory
– Desperate Dan meat and veg. Excellent with Lumphammer bitter.
Back to the mooring and Annie (one of the boat people) gave us some
home brew – very good. We sat around the campfire with them. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ After having a good breakfast we left the market town of Market Drayton (home of the gingerbread men) heading south, we passed through the five Tyrley locks and entered a fascinating cutting through deep rock at Woodeaves – a marvel in itself. Plenty of wildlife to be seen. Stopped for lunch at the Anchor at Norbury Junction. Carried on through Cowley Tunnel, unlined, just plain rock. Moored at the Bridge Inn, Brewood pronounced Brood for the night. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Day 4 - Monday,11th April, 2005 (Gwynne Belton)
No passengers today so the time was spent getting 'Millie' shipshape for the new crew who were joining us at Market Drayton. Floors were washed, showers and toilets cleaned and the paraphernalia that had gathered was tidied. We passed through many locks on this stretch particularly around Audlem and by the time we reached our destination we were ready for a breather. Dave Mason and Stan Crabtree arrived on time and Colin, Lynn and I departed for home. Verdict so Far? Pleasant cruising through beautiful countryside with one or two mishaps but generally most satisfactory. Disabled passengers were well pleased. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Day 3 - Sunday, 10th April, 2005 (Gwynne Belton) Rain threatened their enjoyment for a short time but the sun soon appeared and they spent some time out on the foredeck. We passed through Norbury and Wrenbury and as far as the Hurleston Locks which marked junction of the Llangollen Canal with the Shropshire Union. Once onto the Shropshire Union Canal, much wider than the previous one, we turned our bow south once again and headed for Nantwich. Many more boats on the canal on this stretch. Because of disembarkation difficulties at Baddingdon Bridge, the point at which Helen and Tom would leave us just south of Nantwich, we agreed to find a suitable spot in the town and Lynn and Gwynne pushed the chair as far as the main road where they would be met by Mr Cope. Unfortunately, our next passenger, Sally Birch, had broken her leg so she was unable to be with us in any event. Sunday evening was spent in Nantwich and with Peter as guide we thought
we were heading for the Church of St Mary's evensong but as the parishioners
were filing in we passed the front door and retired to the Bowling Green
Inn tucked at the back. We were later joined by Vice President Michael
Brown and his wife Cheryl. Day 2 - Saturday, 9th April 2005 (Gwynne Belton)
We left at 09.30 hours with Peter at the helm. By this time crew duties had been allocated as follows - Colin Loughlin, Master; Peter Lockley, helmsman; Lynn Williams ropes and locks and myself as cabin steward providing teas, coffees, soft drinks, biscuits as well as acting as tour guide. We passed through delightful countryside and saw Great Crested grebes, kingfishers and a whole host of birds identified by resident ornithologist Lynn. We passed by the meres and touched Welshampton and Bettisfield, Whixall Moss , thankfully too early in the season for mosquitoes. Morris Motor Car Graveyard was also in full view thanks to the absence of leaves on the trees. After a largely uneventful yet pleasant day's cruising we stopped at Viking Direct near Whitchurch for water watching the Grand National whilst moored. Eventually we reached Willeymoor Lock about 6.30pm where our passengers left us. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Day 1 - Friday 8th April 2005 (Gwynne Belton) With a fine crowd of supporters and well wishers gathered at Llangollen ' Millie ' slipped quietly away from the wharf at 08.16 hours on her long voyage to London. The other Llangollen Canal Boat Trust vessel Glas-y-Dorlan (Kingfisher) led the way. On board Millie were the Mayor and Mayoress of Llangollen, one disabled passenger and four crew members - Colin Loughlin, Peter Lockley, Lynn Williams and Gwynne Belton. At Trevor Basin some two hours later the two civic dignitaries departed to be replaced by the Mayor and Mayoress of Wrexham who were to cruise as far as the Poacher's Pocket near Chirk.
At Trevor there was an even larger crowd including the press who took a number of photos with Rotarian Gwilym Hughes in most of them it seemed. We also took on board a sack full of cocoa beans, from Cadbury's Chirk factory, which are to be deposited with the Cadbury Bournville factory in Birmingham to celebrate the centenary of the chocolate manufacturer. Also a card expressing the good wishes of the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod to Prince Charles and the Lady Camilla.Two more disabled passengers embarked and after spending some time securing the banners in the windy conditions we progressed in stately fashion over the magnificent aqueduct. At the Poacher's Pocket the Mayor and Mayoress took their leave and we loaded a gross of soft drinks on board, kindly donated by the Wolverhampton & Dudley Brewery. During the afternoon problems developed with the hydraulic lift, installed to enable wheelchair passengers to come on board. Colin bravely and energetically used manual power to raise and lower the platform so no passenger suffered. Then near Mad Jack's we ran aground thanks to the selfishness of a power boat who tried to speed between ourselves and another. In so doing he left us with little water and we grounded. Repairs to the hoist meant calling for repairs at Maestermyn Marine and our passengers disembarked at this point. By the time we reached Ellesmere, it was 8.45pm - much later than expected. An eventful first day. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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Windsor
Castle 
Millie
"Resting" at Bourne End
VISIT TO CHERTSEY ROTARY CLUB , MONDAY 25th APRIL 2005
Stan Crabtree
(Llangollen Canal Boat Trust)
Napton on the Hill 
Under
the M5
