Norton Junction in the sun?

Slept in late this morning, so, a late setting off. The internet is a bit hit and miss where we are moored which is quite a surprise since we are right in the centre of Braunston.

But here we are, 11:36 heading for the first of the Braunston locks. 

Another iconic building, the old pump house by the bottom lock.

We managed to team up with a single hander delivering a boat somewhere up the Leicester arm. I must say that he was glad of our help. Even though we worked the locks, mainly without his help, there were enough boats coming down where we didn't have to close the gates when leaving the lock. It all saves time. Also, with two boats in a lock it fills quicker than with just one. Something to do with Archimedes principle - go on, look it up.

The Crooked House. I love this place, it looks like it's only half finished. 

Only an hour and a half to get through the locks. Not bad going. Most of the time we would only open one gate, I would take the boat in and swing her across behind the closed gate and the other boat would then come in alongside. This saved the captain having to run backwards and forwards opening and closing two gates.

And look! Braunston Tunnel. And the tunnel light really works. So well that I don't think it was connected properly (by me, I admit it) in the first place. I have always disliked Braunston Tunnel because it has an awkward kink in the middle. But this time I could see everything, kinks and all - wow - feel like turning round and doing it all again. 

After the tunnel new homes are getting closer to the canal every year. 

Stopped just before Norton Junction just as it decided to rain (not forecast). Will stay here for the night.

You probably can't see the smoke but the chimney is in place and the fire alight. It's 14°C at the moment but going to be a lot colder later on. We've got two radiators on the boat and an eco-fan that pushes the heat around so we'll be nice and cosy tonight.