Atherstone

Another short day (in distance that is). Only 6 miles travelling but 11 locks on the way. The Atherstone flight.

When we set off we had about 3 miles of lock free travel. Then, in the space of 2 miles came the flight of locks. 

As you can see, the captain is driving the boat today, so I am on lock duty. 

We followed a hotel boat through the locks but overtook them when they stopped for lunch. 

Mind you, it was hard work today. The pounds were low on water and a boat got stuck in the lock entrance with the hotel boat trying to push it in. We stopped and made a cup of tea while they let more water down to try and ease the situation. 

These are very tidy locks and near the top we were joined by a volunteer who helped us along. 

We stopped just above the top lock and took a walk into Atherstone, something we've never done before. 

Here’s the parish church right opposite the market square. 

A last look at the top lock before setting off again. 

About a mile further on we stopped opposite this field. Where we normally stop was full of boats but we managed to tuck ourselves in on the end. The first time we were here a local told us to avoid a bit of the canal on the other side. It seems that someone had driven a VW car down the field and into the canal. Back then, and it was some time ago, you could just about see the roof of the car just under the surface. I wonder if it's still there.