Sunday papers (13th) from the local shop in Wrenbury and off without breakfast which we postponed until Marbury. We developed our policy of boating when others are stopped for nosebags passing the next 3 locks without interruption and approached Grindley Brook about 2:30 under very busy warnings from oncoming crews, but it wasnt. We joined behind one waiting boat and were through in just over an hour even allowing for some t...@ts turning lock 5 in front of us.
Overnight at the entrance to Prees branch. Monday morning (14th) walked the branch beyond the Whixall Marina then back for breakfast before heading off lock free to Ellesmere. Blake Mere in particular looked special, alongside the canal. Must stop there on the return all the more so because Ellesmere itself disappointed with its Tescos and general weary demeanour. Click political correctness filter off . . . if Mary Portas was invited to rebrand the town . . . . . no, even I cant write that thought. Click. At 6pm decided to move off first a dunny dump and then a gentle chug to the gem that is Lower Frankton. Two boats waiting for the Monty, one other on the lengthy VMs. One of the most peaceful nights ever and well probably go down to Queens Head on our way back. I see there is allegedly a hirebase at Maesbury according to old Nichs. Need to explore boating on that detached section. Maybe ship UM to that part of the world and pray it never becomes attached. Pass the Listerine. Beeky
