I really have to disagree with you here, Guy. In fact I think that method is very damaging. What I've done for years - and remember, I moor on the Oxford - is to secure the bridge with a mooring stake. I have a special one I keep for the job with a large eye through which I thread a short length of rope. I know it means more bother mooring on the off side - and life would be materially improved by the provision of lock platforms at both sides as on the K&A. But the alternative of bringing a two hundred year lump of Grade 2 listed crashing to the ground has to be worrying.
The alternative is to put the kettle on and put your feet up. This is the Oxford, after all. You'll never wait long for another boat. How are you, BTW? Long time since we've passed. Steve We have just come up the Oxford from the Thames and have only found 3 lift bridges that actually need lifting. The rest have been secured in the up position. (170 - 193). Are there more lift bridges, further North on the Oxford? The only swing bridge we came across is the one at the Rose Narrowboat boat yard at Stretton Stop ... As this is a private swing bridge, why is it not open all the time? Caroline and John nb Charlotte Rose ..currently at Coventry Basin. [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
