Tree stops play

We spent yesterday, Monday, at Weedon Bec because of the rain. Luckily there were shops nearby for the odd supplies that we needed. Also luckily, there was Granny's Cafe, and what better than ham, egg and chips for lunch?

So, this morning, after all butter croissants for breakfast, we set off - full speed ahead - well, for two minutes only!

Why the stoppage?

Only a tree down across the canal!

Several boaters were standing around mulling over the problem, but we were told that a volunteer, qualified in chainsaw usage, was on his way.

Lo and behold, chainsaw expert getting his kit ready.

Here he is on the front of a working boat hacking his way through the foliage.

Surprisingly, it didn't take long for us to get underway again.

We managed to team up with a hireboat party from Sweden to work through the Buckby locks together. These were the first locks they had come to, so were glad of our help. Mind you, I think Brigid was better pleased with the help of the various crew members who were only too pleased to open and close the gates.

We were enthusiastic like that once but now, well, we've been there, done that and got the T-shirt. Now we're retired and prefer sharing our knowledge with others.

Benefactors, that's what we are!

Moored for the night just below Buckby top lock, our usual mooring place, and now looking forward to supper at the New Inn.