September Cruise - Day Four

A slightly later start today, and a bit of a change in the weather. It was cloudy and chilly first thing, and the sun didn't come out until mid-afternoon. We set off at 9, heading for Aston Lock. We passed the new Aston Marina, which doesn't look close to opening on schedule in October. We were second in the queue at Aston Lock, and three more boats arrived behind us. Some of those waiting came up for a chat, so the time plassed quickly. At Aston Lock, there's a mile post marking the mid-point of the T&M.

On reaching Stone we moored at the first available space, and walked into town to re-stock at Marrisons. There's also a great hardware shop, where they sell Blue. As we took all the shopping back to the boat, I heard my name being called from across the road: Paul Balmer was taking Waterway Routes up the lock. We went to the Star for lunch, but on the way spotted Jo and Keith from Hadar coming down. It was good to catch up with them.

After lunch we set off up the Stone Locks, stopping for water after the second one. At the Meaford flight, we were following a boat up. At the third lock, the boat in front told us there was a boat coming down the top lock. We waited, and waited, and waited. Eventually a boat came out, with a crew who seemed to have very little idea. Even entering an open lock appeared to be a challenge.

Our mooring for the night was a Barlaston. We arrived early enough to visit the shop at the Wedgewood factory, but didn't buy anything!

7 miles, 9 locks. (49, 26)