Here's one of the chaps 'easing' the new gates with a good old fashioned hammer and chisel
Bulbourne dry dock
The queue of boats waiting above the stoppage. All the work was scheduled to be completed in less than a week
While we were at Marsworth we took advantage of the guided tours being led by British Waterways staff which explained the 'winter works' going on at the lock flight.
It was all very interesting, and strange to see the canal drained along this stretch. We had seen drained sections and works going on before, but it was still a very odd sight. As you can see, there is a huge build-up of silt on the inside of the bends where the outside is kept clear by the water emtying with great force from the lock above.
As you can see, it was very windy with white-topped waves on the water.
So windy in fact, that we had to take shelter in The Anglers Retreat which was very welcoming with its usual excellent beer and wholesome food.
...and only when she's completely happy does it get published.
Let's hope for some exciting 'news' soon. I guess I'll have to out looking for it though!
Until Post 401 then...
Our destination (surprise, surprise) was The Spotted Dog which has just reopened after the fire last year. The repairs have cost £700,000 and had to comply with conservation guidelines which is partly why it has taken so long. We were made very welcome and enjoyed a couple of rounds of drinks with friends who live in Flamstead.
This extension to the village graveyard is very nicely named, don't you think?
We had some very good friends round last night to see in the New Year. I made lots of curries which went down well, and we all gave SWMBO's Wii (Playstation?) a good try out which caused much hilarity!
Very best New Year wishes to all blog followers - it's good having you along.
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