Wheaton Aston

The day started at Gnosall water point where we spent a very long time filling Rainboat's very empty tank. A 500l capacity means we are able to spend a lot longer in places without water than we ever were in the motorhome, which only held 100l.

The sun shone as we cruised along another stretch of gorgeous scenery between Gnosall and Wheaton Aston. Instead of using locks to move boats up and down with the countours of the land, the canal builders cut straight through the contours. Vertiginous slopes dripped moss and young ferns unfurling fresh spring foliage. Ivy and bramble vines dangled over the sides, giving the illusion of being transported back in time to a prehistoric age.

Despite the shade the day was hot and Vicky felt weak and faint. PoTS (postural tachycardia syndrome) often accompanies ME and gets worse with heat. Luckily Will was full of beans and we both felt mentally invigorated by the views around us.

Wheeton Aston is a busy spot but we managed to find a space and when Jenny arrived on The Black Cat the following day she found one too. We're finding boats compressed into the the official mooring points here on the Shropshire Union because 'the Shroppie Shelf' protruding underwater several feet from the bank makes it difficult to moor elsewhere.

Opposite the towpath moorings The Hartley pub provided private leisure moorings and we dropped in for lunch. It was a bit of a wait but the manager was really friendly and the food was good quality and cheap.

The village has a small shop but Will is trying to exercise more so cycled to Penkridge, over 7 miles away to buy bait from a fishing shop. The country road was hairy at times but luckily he made it back in one piece.Read more