Windy, windy, windy

Friday 7th October. A bright start to the day but we didn't really feel the effect of the sun until it climbed above the trees we were moored alongside. Can't have everything but it was a nicely sheltered overnight place to stop. 

There are not many photos today because of a very strong crosswind, much of the time being spent keeping the boat in the centre of the canal and not hitting anyone else. 

We started off through the swingbridge featured yesterday and I thought that the captain had done well in opening it by the time I motored round the corner. I only found out later that some chap was in a hurry to get across before she opened it and she mugged him into helping sort it all out for her. The next swingbridge, which we'd missed when looking at the map, received a firm 'You can do this one, I did the last.' Needless to say, noone there to help me out.

An interesting bridge with electronic locks. I thought it was all electronic, but no. Key in slot, quarter turn, this releases a locking device so that you can close gates both ends of the bridge. Large arm type thing on end of bridge, lift locking pin, put back to large arm type thing and push. Bridge swings open, captain sails the boat through and then, same procedure as above but in reverse. Easy really. 

Again, the picture doesn't give the full story. These trees were really swaying and at times we were sheltered and at others, not. 

We blew our way along to the basin at Market Harborough where we needed to turn around to get to the facilities. Another boater had warned us of a strong crosswind in the basin and, although I say it myself, I was chuffed with the way it all went. Balancing wind against engine, using drift against thrust, sweet as a kiss on a baby's… 

Did the biz and then moored up on the cut just outside the basin.

Took a walk into the town centre, spent a fortune on food and other stuff we didn't realise we wanted, like new trainers as Brigid's were falling apart and walking shoes for me which were £20 off. And, we did find a fish mongers and an artisan butchers. Yum! Managed to catch a bit of rain but only really a passing shower. Back to the boat, cup of tea and then batten down the hatches and bog in for the night.