Having spent quite some time in the G&S/Severn area and enjoyed the special attributes of those waterways I much appreciated the article.
Pansy was tough and experienced and managed that single handed pineapple laden transit from Bristol to Sharpness in the failing light with an underpowered motor and a butty lashed to its side. And she was pregnant. But was it really a steam boat ? Did she have to keep nipping down below to shovel some coal in the boiler ? Compare that with Timothy Spall's adventure around the SW of England in his barge (BBC TV & iPlayer). He spent £5000 on an autohelm so he could pop downstairs for a packet of crisps and, no doubt, a Jimmy Riddle every now and again. Good value he thought. Have to say we have enjoyed catching up with that mini-series and will watch the 3rd and final part (broadcast yesterday evening) later today. Beeky & crew
