Off at 0720, cruising the few yards to Norton Junction and the toll cottage we gave some thought to a couple of years back.
Looking towards Norton Junction:
I turn right onto the Grand Union Canal Leicester Section and feel very welcome:
I'm in no hurry at all so cruise at just above tickover for the 2 miles to Watford Locks. At the locks there are 2 boats making maximum use of all of the mooring space, so I struggle a bit to fit into a gap. Eventually I achieve this and scoot off up the hill to find the lock keeper. (you have to book in and get on the list here). I find him on the staircase section helping boats down. I book in and am third in line for ascent. I return to base and have coffee and dead head some petunias (seem to be a lot dying!) Second to go up comes for a chat and says would I go second, ok I'll go second. Eventually the descending boats work their way down and we start up. The first 2 locks are normal ones so boat 1 and me lock up as the last 2 come down to make use of the water. I enter the 4 lock staircase section and notice that boat 3 is struggling behind, so I return to help to find they are struggling with lock 2. A lady with ill daughter, so super Tim starts running (yes actual running!) up and down single handing both boats. I get some help from the lock keeper after he returns from a pee break. Hey the weather is good, it's a beautiful place, I enjoyed it.
Looking to the last lock from the top of the staircase section:
I continue at tick over pace to Crick tunnel. I pass 2 boats coming the other way and take a shot for David Cameron.
There is light at the end of the tunnel:
Then all too soon into Crick marina where the boat is to spend the weekend. I empty the poo and top off the diesel and tie up on the indicated pontoon. Do much sorting and clearing and stuff, book a taxi for 1630 and while away the rest of the day.
Today: 5.5 miles - 7 locks - 4 hours
So Far: 511.5 miles - 401 locks - 258 hours
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