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In 1977 we hired our first narrowboat from Anglo Welsh at Market Harborough.From that moment our destiny was set. In 2006 we finally purchased our own brand new 57' narrowboat which we named 'Free Spirit'. Our aim is to travel the length and breadth of all the navigable rivers and canals of the UK. This will be our story as it unfolds.

Wednesday 11 October 2017

New use for a widebeam

Tuesday 10th October

Lazy start for us not getting up before 8.30am. By 9 though, we were about ready to leave when Jules and Richard (Jules Fuels) came past, not breasted this time but towing on a long line. With them stopping regularly to see to their customers, we leapfrogged them about 1 mile from Fenny.

As we came through a bridge a widebeam was moored on the offside. Heard noises coming from the front. Strange noises, a mixture of cooing, quacking and then a voice "Come here little one" "Time for exercise". Intrigued I was amazed to see ducks appear from inside and a chap grabbing each one and placing them on the bank. Well, I've seen it all now. This is one hell of an expensive Duck house! Still, the widebeam use may have changed but at least it's serving a purpose even though its cruising life may have ended!




We only got as far as Fenny Stratford and once through the lock, there was a long length of mooring free. Wondered why this stretch was free and on closer inspection, a couple of notices caught our attention. Ah, now we know!





We did find a 14-day mooring further along the towpath so this will do for the next day or two. Last time we visited Bletchley Park our entry fee allowed us a further visit. Looks like we may as well make use of it and head there tomorrow.


And moored nearby was Beverley (butty) and Ascot.(motor) Found out a bit about them from the Towpath telegraph IWA Milton Keynes magazine. To read about these historic boats click here and go to page 6. Looking very sorry for themselves these days and in need of some TLC although when you read how old this pair are, ( built in1936) I suppose the deterioration is understandable.






And wildlife,

Female Mandarin duck (or possibly an American wood duck) with a damaged wing.



Get off my patch!

Okay, I'm going.

To the victor a salute

But then....You get off my patch!

Claiming the water instead!!!

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