There I was, idly tapping away on the phone, when Mrs Google tells me that 0.7 miles away is a garage. What??? I thought we'd moored in the middle of nowhere. So, off we set, the captain and I, we cut across a field and there we were on the A4 - scary - lorries hurtling past - please, take me away from all this, take me back to the canal. But we pressed on 100 yards into the garage, filled the can and then retreated rapidly back to the peace and quiet of the cut.
Had a restorative cuppa and then set off.
Our first port of call was Aldermaston and we are looking back at a boater who was very helpful when we were coming through.
We had been warned earlier about the strong flow of water when paddles are opened in the locks but he helped make sure that all was OK.
Just about to pass Aldermaston Wharf, being extra careful not to nudge the boat ahead which is going slowly because the reverse gear has gone.
Luckily he had a friend with a car helping with locks and bridges, so we were able to follow through the open lift bridge.
No sooner closed than the traffic resumed its merry course.
The signboard gives information on the restoration of the lock which once was turf sided.
I must admit that you never know what's around the corner when you're on the canal. Hanging from a branch of a tree in midstream was a yellow notice (wrong way round) saying 'obstruction 100 metres ahead'. Pop round the corner and there was a pontoon with generator, several diggers and evidence of serious work in progress.
Slow down, avoiding everything in the canal, and then off we go again.
By the way, no sign of any workmen, just lots of abandoned machinery.
Have stopped at Woolhampton, a day's journey of just under 3 miles. Well , we hadn't got anything out for supper and the pub here looks good. Sorry, that's not the pub, although it is a watering hole erected for Queen Victoria's Jubilee.
And here we are all shipshape & Bristol fashion.
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