Monday 2nd July 2018



After a leisurely start we left Orchard Marina at 9.30. Before leaving we spoke to Gary, the marina manager, who is happy to let us return when Sandra can fit us in.

We were both glad to be leaving. We never intended to be marina dwellers anyway.

We passed right through the centre of the big chemical works at Rudheath, then had a very slow cruise through Wincham and Marston before arriving at Anderton.  All areas that we know well but look so different from the canal.

At Anderton we dumped all our rubbish, which had by now begun to smell, and took on water. We then moved on a short distance before mooring up and walking into the village of Barnton for some shopping.

Brenda had done the bulk of her district nursing here and was quickly recognised, 13 years later, in the Co-op store.

We then had our lunch before moving again, through the Barnton Tunnel, but then having to wait to enter the Saltersford Tunnel as we had just missed the eastbound entry time. Barnton Tunnel is 572 yards long but is almost straight, and therefore there are no restrictions on entering although you are asked to ensure the tunnel is clear before proceeding. Saltersford Tunnel, on the other hand, at 424 yards long is very crooked with numerous changes of profile, therefore, has restrictions on entry time. For eastbound traffic entry is from on the hour, until 20 minutes past. We arrived at 20 minutes past 2pm so had to wait 40 minutes, during which time we had a cup of tea.

We then carried on to our overnight mooring just beyond Acton Bridge. After mooring up we went to the Holly Bush pub a short walk from the canal. The Holly Bush is a listed, timber framed building and said to be one of the oldest farmhouse pubs in the country. It was certainly very intriguing. It was run by the same family from 1640 until 1991 and up until that date was still serving beer in jugs direct from barrels in the cellar.









The Holly Bush Inn,

Acton Bridge



Returning to the boat, one of the stakes had been ripped out and the boat was laying right across the canal.
Spoke with Ethan who I sailed with on my last ship. He is at college about to sit his exams for Engineering Officer. He will be visiting us next weekend hopefully.
Aaron and Sarah moved into their new house today.
Washing hung out, a lovely dinner of salmon, new Cheshire potatoes, asparagus and broccoli, a spot of fishing and then sat in the front cratch feeding ducks with ducklings and watching the sun go down. Perfect.























 





 


So on the go for seven hours. And covered 8 miles.



Day Total: 0 locks; 8 miles; engine running hours 3.7

Overall Total: 97 locks; 113 miles; 4 tunnels; engine running hours 78.4











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