Early start next morning again, but not as early as some or early enough. Going through Rugeley two boats pulled out in front and insisted on travelling at minimum revs. This is not helpful to a Steamer, but they resisted us passing by and were as unpleasant as anyone I have met on the waterways in my 35 years, berating us for going too fast. They had no idea of the trials of managing a boiler or the lack of control I have at the tiller. Eventually, and with much bad grace, they let us pass by
There was a queue of 5 boats for Colwich Lock, and a short boat 3 ahead. I politely asked if anyone minded us sharing with these folks and everyone said not, barring one who repeated the unpleasantness of earlier, threatening to "report" us to someone as yet unidentified. Leaving a bad taste in everyone's mouths we were glad to move on, slowly ascending the Trent valley and leaving most folks behind at Great Haywood. At Stone we stopped to refuel and met our first real problem. Sean reclaimed his Landrover OK, but after refuelling we were stuck in gravel and loose shale. Even 4 wheel drive didn't help and eventually we had to call the AA. They were magnificent, arriving in 10 minutes, towing us out with maximum courtesy and efficiency: I shall pay my subs each year with good grace from now on! Well done! So onwards, up Meaford and Stone flights and eventually arriving at Barlaston, just in time for food. We passed our "friends" of earlier in the day, but they studiously looked away. Huh! Ian Cardinal "History will be kind to me for I intend to write it. " Sir Winston Churchill
