A different language

We are now on the Shroppie! 

The Shropshire Union Canal was one of the last to be built. Unlike earlier canals the Shroppie doesn't follow the contours of the land but follows a more direct route, cutting through hills and bridging valleys. By the time the Shroppie was being built, other methods of canal building were available. This canal was built purely for commerce where speed of transport was the object. 

The Shroppie is littered with high arched bridges where the ground has been cut away to accommodate the path of the canal. 

We have stopped overnight at Brewood which, surprisingly enough, is pronounced Brood. We have stopped here before and there is a wonderful butcher in the town. 

Also, some exotic houses in the town centre. 

Now flats but formerly a grand town house. 

Setting off again carrying on northward we pass through several locks. 

Some needing more attention than others. 

Another feature on this canal is the crossover bridges, so designed that the tow rope need not be removed when the horse crossed from one side of the canal to the other. 

It was important to the horse's welfare that the tow be swapped from time to time so that sores did not develop. 

Next stop Gnosall Heath.