Wild and windy

We decided that as it wasn't raining we would move on, probably not one of our best ideas. We were a bit sheltered from the worst of the wind where we had moored overnight and it was only once we were on the move that we realised just how nasty it was. At least there were other boats at both locks we went through which made life easier, one lovely chap even did all the work at Cholmondeston Lock for us so we could just go straight out without Ray having to stop to let me get back on board.

When we were amongst trees or in a cutting it wasn't too bad but there was one stretch, just after Venetian Marina which is very open and we were going down the canal constantly fighting a crosswind. As we had started out we decided to make some progress but as the morning went on the sky darkened and we didn't fancy adding rain to the cold and wind so we moored at a spot overlooking the River Weaver by lunchtime. the first spots of rain fell as we were mooring. It is now very grey and miserable outside so we are inside, toasty warm with the fire going.

The view across the river is quite nice, or would be in the sunshine, I'll try and get a photo tomorrow before we leave, at the moment it is tipping it down.

The prospects for progress tomorrow look good, no rain and a lot less wind so hopefully we will be able to get to Middlewich, pick up some groceries and then even carry on a bit further.

Today's journey 4.5 miles and 2 locks

So far this year we have travelled 267.4 miles, 167 locks, 5 swing bridges and 6 tunnels

In 2011 we travelled 461.4 miles, 444 locks, 3 swing bridges, 34 lift bridges and 15 tunnels

During 2010 we travelled 740.3 miles, 642 locks, 53 swing bridges, 4 lift bridges and 25 tunnels

Since Ray retired we have travelled 1469.1 miles, 1253 locks, 61 swing bridges, 38 lift bridges and 46 tunnels