Fradley Junction

Reluctantly we left Huddlesford and with it, the hope that Whiskers would return to Rainboat by his own means. We've done everything we can think of to increase the chances we'll be contacted if he is found.

It was a relief to fill with water at Kings Orchard Marina and we topped up with diesel too. More than a fortnight ago Will had ordered items to service Rainboat's engine from here (oil and air filters etc). He'd checked in several times in between then and now but they still weren't in stock, which was disappointing. With our water tank full it was a relief to set the washing machine going as soon as we got underway.

The sun was shining as we cruised and it was an absolute pleasure to see the progress of Spring in the flora along our green corridor. The birds twittered over the sound of the engine, flitting between the tops of trees to display themselves at their best.

We hoped as we approached Fradley Junction that there would be a mooring spot available, otherwise we'd need to tackle a swing bridge, the turning and two locks before the next available spot. Luck was on our side and despite there being a large number of boats there were still plenty of spaces.

Fradley Junction is where the Coventry meets the Trent and Mersey Canal. The Swan sits on the T of the junction and customers can watch the boats coming and going along both canals. Will nipped in for a veggie burger and pint and dropped off the first of many bags of rubbish at the refuse point on the way - hallelujah! While our water supply had been dwindling our bins had been overflowing. Vicky hung the washing outside and went to rest.

Leo was over the moon to have somewhere new to explore so Vicky's nap didn't last as long as she'd have liked. He can be very insistent when he puts his mind to it!

We only stayed one night because we wanted to reach Stone in a couple of weeks where we'd arranged to meet Vicky's stepmum and Dad.Read more