Hinksford

Before departing we took the dogs on a walk up to the nearest small pet and fishing shop in Wombourne. Unfortunately they didn't stock Abby's food or the dog treats we like, but the store keeper did give Leo and Lilly a gravy bone each and have maggots for Will.

A short cruise took us to Sainsburys, from where we struggled back to Rainboat laden with shopping. There haven't been many large supermarkets close to the canal so we took this chance to fill the cupboards.

Vicky didn't have much energy so stayed behind while Will nipped to the Waggon and Horses for a pint and quick bite of hummus and flatbread for lunch. Back when we lived in bricks and mortar we would use it as a base to cycle, walk or paddle from. Will and his old friend Liz Jednorog spent many a happy time here so he was glad to pay a visit once more.

A staircase of 2 and a further 3 locks took us to Hinksford, where we moored under the shade of trees adjacent to Park Homes. A hedge divided the lodges from the towpath so we all had our privacy.

Rest took up the remainder of the day. Will had strained his calf stepping down onto a loose locker lid on the stern from one of the locks. It was pretty painful and we really hoped it wouldn't be a long term injury. The hinge on Rainboat's stern gate had also snapped during the journey so we'd need to find somewhere that would weld it back on 🫤Læs mere