Merry Christmas
&
A Happy New Year

Wednesday 20th September 06
Managed to levell of our bed to day using battons and inch thick MDF looks just the job. Still plenty of shelving to build. I visited a wood supplier today and have been able to source wood in readiness. Oh dear the travel gen has packed up again and I cannot find tha Adverc system so will speak to Tom at Heritage. ASP

Tuesday 19th September 06.
Fitted all the shutters supplied by Cabincare to day. Had a bit of a problem to begin with. (fitting instructions are lacking) however all okay.

Wednesday 13th September 06
Heavy showers again last night, drainage working okay, no water on bow and stern not flooded. I phoned Adverc for instructions to identify if I had an Adverc Battery Management system fitted, will check out engine bay on my next day off. I also emailed Mick and Jill copy of the canalboat advertisement .

Tuesday 12th September 06
Weather Wet and humid.
Very heavy rain last night almost tropical storms, what's happening to our weather! Isabelle was up at 3.am checking Angela, luckily no hatches were left open, we have learned our lesson from our last error (refer 18th August). Isabelle left a mat on the stairs of which I was not aware. Result one heavy fall, face first, knocked the wind out of me, bit bruised but I have survived to live another day. When I arrived at work we had a delivery of our new blinds from Cabincare so we shall have to check them and fit as necessary. On opening the Canalboat magazine there was a photo of Angela and Dawntreader, which was a nice surprise to see. I phoned Mick and Gill and gave them the news.

Monday 11th September 06
Weather perfect
Isabelle at work to day. Spent the morning repackaging and sorting out the spare room. Too little boat and too much personal items however time will sort it out. With the perfect weather to day I have managed to polish and varnish the brass mushrooms at last. Next step is to do a bit of repainting before the winter sets in ..? I am playing the bagpipes tonight in the Fusiliers Mess, Tower of London so that has cut my day short. However I managed to pick up the mail from our PO box at last. When Isabelle arrived home she noticed that Angela had been pumped out.

Sunday 10th September 06 Weather perfect for sailing! Yes perfect day however due to tide restrictions we would not have got very far. So we decided to turn the boat round ready for a pump out. Quite a difficult maneuver within the marina but we managed okay. Who says you do not need bow thrusters......bloody right you do! Spent the rest of the day and have cleared our very expensive storage facilities! So that will save us next month. However our spare room is now full with suitcases etc.....no room for guests! We shall sort out this problem soonest with thanks to dear friends. Isabelle and I managed a well earned evening meal out on the stern. What a wonderful evening. weather great and no planes to provide overhead noise pollution.

Looking out from South Dock

Saturday 9th September 06
Weather sunny but windy.
Woke up this morning and booked Angela for a lock out into the Thames at 1600. I spoke to Tony (lock keeper) and said that if the wind does not drop by this afternoon we will remain in the Marina. Sadly of course by 3pm the wind was blowing stronger so we decided to stay put. We will not risk our home or crew under any potential risk situation. So the rest of the day was put to good use. I managed to drill a hole from the stern deck area to feed direct into the underneath drainage channel. An engineering success for me! And it works great. John from '3 Fishes' came aboard to advise on further fitting out of cabinets etc so we are having a good think about that. With the stern now uncovered we are able to enjoy sitting out in the sun again and brought our fold up chairs out of hibernation!

Sunday 3rd September 06
Visited and bought a chimney. Have not used the fire as yet, however winter approaches. Managed to borrow an industrial drill, hoping to drill a hole in the stern to allow drainage into the drain pipes underneath. Hopefully that will help resolve the build up of water on the stern.

Saturday 2nd September 06
Played at a Irish wedding today with Louisa. Started at the Tower then by river cruiser down to Greenwich. I must admit we did look smart in our saffron kilts. The photographer took lots of photos which I will put on the website as soon as I get them.

Thursday 24th August 06
Received a phone call From Steve (Barrus engineer) Travel Gen ok was a blown fuse. He said that the fuse box was in a hidden location and has pointed it out to Isabelle! Well I did check all bar one! Spoke to Wilsons sadly they will not come into central London so may well have to source a pram cover from somewhere else. Or wait until Angela is in a location (out of London) so that Wilsons can visit and measure up.

Wednesday 23rd August 06
Visited St Pauls in the morning. PM brought some more boxes onto Angela from storage. We have decided to empty the storage as soon as possible. No email from Wilsons so I will have to give them a call. Evening attended the SDMBHA meeting in the Moby Dick. Good meeting met some more fellow boaters. Isabelle and I were surprised even slightly horrified at the security issues that evolve round Greenland Dock. Stone throwing, theft, vandalism etc, not good, time perhaps to move on. As a footnote I must add this seems to source from the local youths particularly in the summer months.

Tuesday 22nd August 06 Left for Birmingham at 9.30 by car to visit Cabincare and Elete furnishings. Arrived at about 1pm helped by clear motorways. Ned from Cabincare very helpful, will order 2 x blinds for the kitchen, one blind for the bathroom and a flyscreen. The mat flooring will have to wait a while longer. Met Chris from Elite Furnishings, again very helpful and we now have resolved the material for the spare room. Arrived back in London at 2045.

Monday 21st August 06
South Dock.
Heard from Steve from Barrus he will exchange our Travel Gen on Thursday at about 11am. Hopefully that will be good news.

Saturday 19th August 06
South Dock.
Woke up this morning with a touch of Ghandis Revenge so had to use our loo and not the marina facilities, Still Isabelle is sleeping, perhaps she has not noticed! Looked at Wilsons web site I must say that a pram cover is a must, after all we do have a dodger! Met Will this evening asked him to put a link on the sdmbha site. Informed him that we will attend the meeting on Wed 23rd at the Moby Dick.

Friday 18th August 06
South Dock Wet weather last night. Stupid mistake I left the Houdini Hatch open, result a very wet internal floor. So lots of swabbing out this morning. I hope that the floor is not ruined, time will tell! Still no word from Tom re travel gen so will call him Monday. Isabelle has seen a stern cover that she would like so I will have to take photos.

Thursday 17th August 2006.
Sent e mail to Wilsons re pram cover. Weather forecast not good so have covered stern with temporary sheet.

Wednesday 16 August
Phoned Tom today re travel gen. He said that he would come back to me after speaking to Barrus. Informed him that the weed hatch was seeping, he said that a weedhatch gasket can be purchased from most chandlers. Bilge paint is Rylards.

Tuesday 15th August
South Dock
I awoke to find the stern awash from the nights previous rain. Enough is enough pram cover here we come!
I spoke to Ian Wilson to day so we will see what price is given. He did say that they will not come into central London but will think about it.
Spoke to Tom at Heritage re travel gen, then Martin phoned with some advice to check trip switches etc. So I will have a look tonight.
Sad news all switches ok plus fuses, back to Tom tomorrow

Monday 14th August
South Dock
Awoke on our home mooring, spoke to Garry, marina manager he informed me that we will be moving to Greenland dock soon.
Isabelle was sent home from work after an accident, she is okay but still suffering from shock. So she is resting the remainder of the day. I picked up the car from Springfield so all back together at last.
I have tied tyres on one side of Angela for a trial period. They seem much better for mooring. Time will tell?

Sunday the 13th Well named, the weather is terrible, seems like tropical storms. We had breakfast in the café then prepared Angela to sail. We set of from Springfield at 1330 with Keith Gleeson joining us for the trip to Limehouse. Luckily the sun came out and gave us a beautiful afternoon. Isabelle (skipper) took her all the way to Limehouse her confidence is growing. The new two way radios worked well however I will need to look for a hands free device for the helmsman or should I say helmsperson! We arrived at Limehouse at 1545 a record trip! I then checked the weed hatch and took out the normal Tesco plastic bags and weeds from the prop. Locked out at 1615 into a rough Thames. Keith stayed on board for this part of the trip, very, brave of him. Keith was of great help as he kept closing cupboards and drawers as Angela heaved from side to side with the waves and wash from other vessels. We arrived safely at South Dock (Sir) Geoffrey had her open for us. It is always a great relief to arrive and take shelter from the Thames. Unknown to us Terry Beal and Ann were watching us from the Lock Side. Terry said that we looked very professional and worked together very well as we came in. That was really a nice comment.

Just as we arrived the heavens opened we then spent much time swabbing the deck during storms. Eventually we gave up. We said goodbye to Keith and will see him again soon.Terry and Ann took us for dinner at the Moby Dick.
Later in the evening we were joined by Keith and Angela Hanson for a glass of wine on board. They both enjoyed the boat and of course Angela Hanson said what an apply named boat!
I understand that Terry is about to compose another pipe tune called Beers on the Stern. What a great day I only wished the weather had been kinder in the evening.

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Saturday 12th August
Wet and windy. Tried the travel gen nothing working so will have to investigate further. We had a nice breakfast on Angela. Then we went to our friends Javier and Jenny's wedding celebration.
After a long break from playing I played the pipes for the first time . Isabelle and I thoroughly enjoyed the food and party and admired the Spanish dancing. We even had a tune from Javier on the bagpipe!

Friday 11th August
Springfield Marina,
I admired Angela as we went to work, she really looks good on the mooring.
Phoned Limehouse to arrange a lock out at 1630 on Sunday. However the weather forecast does not look good, so we may stay over. Sent an email to Terry Beal hopefully he will join us.

Thursday 10th August
Springfield Marina
0500 woke up sure enough all batterys discharged. Decided to start the engine at 0700. Only to find that the travel gen was not working and did not know why. Hastily I read the manual, could well be that the batteries are flat or a fuse blown will check it out on return journey. Isabelle had a chat with Guy, we now have a power line, battery charger on so end of problem, maybe?

Wednesday 9th August
Springfield Marina
This evening we had Keith Gleeson visit Angela for dinner. Mirella made a fish starter smoked tuna and trout. Isabelle made her special meatballs Keith supplied the wine, a very enjoyable evening.
Then.......
I noticed the red warning light on the fridge started flashing once every few seconds. On finding and reading the instruction manual I was informed that the fridge was about to switch of, due to low battery power I asked for minimum lighting to conserve power as I was worried, only to be rebuffed by others present.

Monday 7th August
Springfield Marina
I phoned Guy, he has been very helpful and offered us the use of the mooring outside his cottage, for the rest of the week. We accepted his offer gratefully.

Sunday the 6th of August.
I went to pick up our car from S.Dock took me hours due to the road being blocked for the London Triathlon. However on return managed to fill up on fuel and inclusive of jerricans. Had a chat with Guy (Marina manager) he has asked me to call him tomorrow re berthing of Angela.
Wendy and Mirella came on board for dinner.

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Saturday 5th August
Awoke to a beautiful sunny day. However we had overslept, so quite a rush to lock out at 09.15.
All okay Angela bounced about as normal. Arrived at Limehouse Marina and straight in. I must admit it is a great feeling to reach still waters. We done the trip in about 20 minutes.
We then pumped out and filled the water tank. I had a shower then visited a pub for breakfast. When I asked the barmaid for an English breakfast, she replied that I could have a meatball sandwich! Isabelle ordered a patty terrine (which came as a small portion). I must admit my mistake must make a mental note not to eat in that pub again! I should have followed my instincts and dined at the Cruising Association.
Then prior to cruising we visited a deli cafe, where Isabelle showed great interest in all the health products.
We left Limehouse and cruised up the River Lee as follows.

Left Limehouse 1330 Arrived Three Mills 1415 Took on Stores at Tesco's. Departed Three Mills 1515 Arrived Old Ford lock 1545 BW Key Required. Great Lock all electric. Arrived at Springfield at 1730. Missed fueling point. Evening had a great barbecue with Mirella and Wendy. They had fish I had sausage. Weather good, loads of vino we all got pissed!

Friday the 4th August
Said a sad goodbye to Dawntreader, she is a wonderful narrow boat, well designed you must be very proud of her. We all hope to meet again the next time in London.
Visited Nantwich Canal Centre. Very helpful spent too much money on paint (expensive game this boating), but still, Angela is worth it.
Arrived back in London, dropped the wood of with Keith Gleeson and had a welcome cup of coffee.
Arrived back at South Dock, Angela was in good shape ready to take her out tomorrow.

Thursday 3rd August
Went to Evesham to day, needed answers to some technical and paint questions. In summary I did not get the answers Tom did not know. Although we did have an in-depth talk over ballast. Not to worry it was nice to see everybody again.
Made a point to visit Mick Rayne (Relief Lock Keeper Evesham). Stopped for a quick refreshment, caught up on news. Good to see you again Mick.
We picked up the remainder of our wooden flooring and put it on the roofrack. Plus other leftovers from the boatbuild. This left Betty (our little Fiat) with a heavy load which she managed ok.
In the Evening we caught up with our good friends, Mick and Jill from Dawntreader. We had a seven course Indian meal which we actually worked out as six! Much talk of both our adventures, cats, toilets, generators indispersed with Cobra Beer. You know what I mean boating talk.....
Then back onto Dawntreader for the much needed nightcap. We were treated to taking over the large 4 poster for the evening, excellent nights sleep. I managed to get my web update in a format that Mick's computer could understand, and I have to agree with you, Jill men cannot multi task!

Tuesday 1st August
Purchased two Motorola 'Talkabout T5622' Radios from Argos, paid for next day delivery, well we shall see!

Tuesday 18th July
Enjoying the heat of the evening and a quiet drink on the 'poop deck' with Isabelle. At about 2030 hours we noticed a large ferry coming in. The Skipper informed us he had only one engine. He missed Angela by a fraction of an inch.
All was well till he 'kicked her astern' this resulted in a large wave which swamped the stern and drenched me to the bone. Oh well....... another learning point here. Much to our neighbours delight.

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Monday 17th July
Weather very, very hot.
Took on diesel about 35 pounds, had a chat with the Marina re mooring there. Possible in the future.
11am Left for Limehouse, was helped by a following narrow boat. The day is very hot causing us both great fatigue. The River Lee still closed so had to come back the long way round.
Made it back to Limehouse about 1530. We made good time. Isabelle took the tiller much more this weekend. We then replenished the water tank. Managed to Lock out of Limehouse about 1630. We then went underway to South Dock.
Isabelle called South Dock on the VHS. Her message was received and we locked in with no problems. A great weekend, Isabelle had to take the day of work.

Sunday 16th July
Weather hot and Sunny Have got up early locking out at 7pm to Limehouse. Angela bounced about a bit and she was fine. Arrived at Limehouse too early should have left about 0725. Went up on the ebb.
Pumped out at Limehouse. The River Lee was closed so had to use the canal and Hertford cut. Took much longer due to about six locks, arrived Springfield Marina about 17.30. Met Lat and Collette on route, fellow boaters and gave them a lift to Springfield. They both signed the visitors book.
Met by Wendy and Mirella had a few pims then stayed overnight. Springfield is really nice and quiet, like being in the country, a very pleasant environement (in summer)

Sat 15 July
Woke to find the wind strong. As such have cancelled the lock out. We are both disappointed but will go shopping instead. Picked up the mail from PO box all seems okay. We have purchased two folding chairs for Angela, new cutlery, plus a much needed shaving mirror.

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Fri 14th July
I received the brass lacquer by parcel post. Isabelle and I are very keen to take Angela out on the Thames tomorrow. I have booked a lock out for 0715 from South Dock.
The wind is picking up strong and the water in the marina is a wee bit rough.

Friday 7th July 2006 Weather wet all day, then sunny spells. Set of from Twickenham at 09.30. Locked out at 0955. Brentford 11.05 Kew Bridge 11.07 Kew Railway Bridge 11.15 Chiswick Bridge 11.25 Barnes Railway Bridge 11.40 Chelsea Harbour Marina 12.44 Limehouse Marina 02.15 Locked out of Limehouse at 1745. Arrived South Dock 18.30. An exciting day to day, learnt a lot from James about the Thames. Lots of photo’s taken. Police interest shown as we approached Westminster. Checked us out then left. .

PLA very busy with traffic, ferries etc Quite choppy, waved to Lee Miles as we passed the Tower. Angela sailed under Tower Bridge. I telephoned South Dock only to be informed that they cannot take us until 21.30. So we will lock into Limehouse and relax for a couple of hours. The entrance to Limehouse was very exciting with James showing great helmsman skills, With his comment, Chic you will never be able to do this! ( we shall see Mr. Cole! ) 19.30 still waiting to dock, so having dinner in the middle of the Thames. 2030 message from S.Dock advised to lock in, fantastic all crew very tired, home at last (or for until the next adventure)

Thursday 6th July 2006 Weather rain to begin with then warmed up by the afternoon. Set sail from Cookham lock at about 0830 Boulters lock 09.17 Bray lock 09.53 Boveney 10.34 Romney 11.09 Old Windsor 12.18 Bell Weir 13.05 Who do we send the speeding fine to? Penton Hook 13.50 Chertsey 14.23 Shepperton 15.10 Sunbury 15.55 Arrived Teddington Lock 18.15

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Wednesday 05th July 2006
Sorry about the jump in dates, however have been very busy. I am glad to say that we have left the Kennet and Avon at Reading and are now on home ground (the river Thames that is). Rained quite heavily at times, James on the Tiller. Said a sad good-bye to Merrick at Reading. Hope to see him soon. He has been and is a great help especially with training Isabelle on the tiller.
On leaving Reading I got stung for a Thames licence. Bloody expensive! £150 for 15 days!. We arrived at our moor up point at Cookham lock at 1830. Had some wonderful sights to day. Sailed through Henley - On- Thames. Angela actually sailed the Race Course! Lots of money here, houses with moorings, must cost a fortune. Roll on my lottery win.
For dinner Isabelle cooked a chilli con carne, which was devoured by all of us. The engine compartment was heavy with water, so I need to keep an eye on this. In other words pump her out more frequently. Still I managed a shower this evening for a change!

Rest of the days.
All hot and sunny, had a lay over in Reading Marine for an engine service. This cost us a lot of time. James and Janet went shopping to Reading and returned, in time to set sail

Friday 30th June 2006 Weather Hot and Sunny We done the Devizes flight this morning set of from just past the Barge in at about 0800. James on the Tiller. We then took Angela up Devizes. Arrived at the top of Devizes about 1400 hours. The weather was so hot. I went shopping and. had to return for more bread, forgot water, Merrick sorted that out with spring water from his van. We then set sail about 6 pm and finished about 8 pm. Moored up by a lock then we all had dinner outside. Beautiful evening stayed up late drinking with Merrick. .

Thursday 29th June 2006 Weather Hot and Sunny Just a short entry to day. Departed Bath at 07.30, Canal very narrow, overhanging branches, parked "Hippy Boats". James took the tiller, to keep her moving, Good idea, lots of experience I maybe would have done it, but very much slower! Arrived at Bradford Upon Avon at 1215. Only to find the Marina closed until 1330. Still we all had lunch. I filled the water tank took me about 45 mins. I then spoke to Shire (Steve) as regards to using too much coolant; he will look at the engine Tuesday of next week. Managed to contact Merrick will meet him later. Another washing machine done all ok. Pumped out and fuelled paid cash about £60 total.
	Left Bradford upon Avon about 1400, with James doing some fantastic reversing. Got grounded twice, much work done with the Barge Pole and engine all okay managed to get unstuck. I took over the tiller to give James a break; canal was much wider to be honest therefore safer for me. My helmsman skills are improving gradually. James has taught me very much indeed. My rope work is also improving maybe? Isabelle made a refreshing fruit salad and nuts, just what we all needed. Run Time 10 hrs (Grand total 43.40 hours) Merrick joined us and assisted with locks and swing bridges, (just what the doctor ordered). Great to see him again after two years, he will join us until Reading to assist getting her ahead. The tiller is fine I think I now prefer the Swan Neck as it is, we shall see. All visited the Three Magpies for a well deserved evening dinner, the food was great, everybody tired and all in bed, still tomorrow another day eh!
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Wednesday 28th June 2006
Weather Fine
Departed Bristol 07.45.
Hanham Lock 1015.
Departed 09.30
Departed 0945. Paired with David Piper nb Blue Gorton. davidhpiper@btinternet.com Keynsham Lock arrived 1015 departed 10.45
Saltford Lock arrived 1155 departed 1210
Kelston Lock arrived 1230 departed 1245.
Isabelle joined David on his narrow boat for a ride then rejoined Angela at the next lock.
Westoe Lock arrived 1325. departed 1345
Arrived Bath 1430. James and Janet went for a quick stroll into Bath.
I mopped out the bilge and washed some paintwork (damn the pigeons) Isabelle emptied the rubbish and read up on the washing machine.
Departed Bath at 1645 arrived at the top of the Widcombe flight at 1930. This flight took us completely by surprise, they are the deepest locks in Europe, much handling of ropes, nearly lost Angela twice, once with the Tiller caught under a rising lock, bridge head, second time Angela to close to the paddles. Never mind we all survived, good experience, the tiller is now about 18 inches lower. Be okay for Isabelle, will have to get the Swan neck realigned in the near future.
We all learned a lot today, mainly not to panic, learn more about ropework, knots etc.
Managed a quick phone call to Merrick hopefully he will join us in a couple of days. Everybody tired all in bed. Up early tomorrow must get her ahead, time to work, need water and fuel.
Run Time 10 hrs (Grand total 33.40 hours)

Tuesday 27th June 2006
Weather fine Good rest to day, James and Janet went out for a good tour round Bristol. Isabelle and I spent all morning doing some house work I did some cleaning to the boat exterior. Engine run for 2 hours to top up batteries.
Pm Isabelle and I went shopping, bought a new kettle plus two mops and underfelt for the furniture. On return treated all to an Indian take away. Had a visit from Julia ( wb Skyloom) she has signed the visitors book. She showed me how to work the Travel Genny. ( I had been operating the switch the wrong way!
Hoping to make Bath tomorrow pm. James has suggested an early start, I agree.
Total Engine Run Time 2 hrs (Grand total 23.40 hours)

Monday 26th June 2006.
Departure Sharpness 0900
Arrived Portishead 1110.

Departed Portishead 1700
Arrived Bristol 1930.

Woke up to a dull morning, bit of wind. James "jollied us along" to enter Sharpness Dock at 0715. Once locked-out waited for our Pilot. I just had enough time for a shave when the Pilot introduced himself with, "She looks alright, what does she do Skipper?. I had no ides to reply so said 2000 revs. Great he said then we were of into a murky day with a tiny bit of swell. Still James looked comfortable so all was okay. He then began a tale of Pilot tale swapping yarns. So I left them to it.
The Pilots name was Paul, a character full of "woeful narrowboat stories". About half an hour into the journey I checked the weed hatch, glad I did, as it was leaking, not heavily but enough to cause me concern. The Pilot did say that she is more or less at full throttle in a very demanding environment therefore not to worry.
Many pictures were taken with Janet mentioning that she was visiting Chic and Isabelle’s house on the Severn at 11 miles an hour. Hows that for a story to dine out on.
The heavens then opened and continued raining all day.
Into Portishead for a well-deserved lunch, Paul stayed on board and signed the visitors book. Then away for some shopping, which reminds me the whole day was paid for by James and Janet Cole. For this we give our greatest thanks.
Raining heavily, Isabelle not pleased; need a mop and sponges, starting to get water logged in the engine compartment, stern and bow, (the cratch is leaking).
Locked out of Portishead at 1700, with James at the helm. Used the VHF to contact Bristol VTS all okay. Large sandbank on our right, boat pitching about, and lots of anxious faces, however James was calm and guided us into the Avonmouth, into Bristol Docks.
What a great day, we have done it! This is what all narrowboaters dread so we can say that we have done the Severn, all thanks to Paul, James and Angela.
Total Engine Run Time 5.40 hrs (Grand total 21.40 hours)

Ps a very well deserved rest day tomorrow

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Sunday 25th June 06
Weather Good, No wind.
2 am. Could not sleep, working on GPS, finally resolved the problem of downloading data onto GPS. Finally managed to gain some sleep, just the excitement and worry of Sharpness-Bristol, hope the weather remains okay, need a good window. Still James will see us through ok. Up at about 8 ish. Janet and James out for a walk. Isabelle and I invited for coffee at John and Jill’s. Beautiful flat, I would have to win the lottery! 10 am visited BW, they have informed me all okay to use Boat index. 11.45 Departure Gloucester-Sharpness. Isabelle at the Tiller, Waved of by John, Jill, Mike and Janet. Sad farewell promises to meet again and we will.
Will do a wash today on the move! Washing machine worked fine, once we worked out how to switch it on! Janet kindly looked after the wash. No incidents today, lots of traffic lights made it to Sharpness at 3.30 pm. Good time engine at 2000 revs. Took the wrong turning James at the helm took us out of trouble no problems. No clear directions, phoned Pier head, move into position 7.15 tomorrow morning. Met some French people, hope this made Isabelle feel more at home, had a drink on board with them. they signed the visitors book. Isabelle wants vino with her pate, I will oblige. Phoned and said good-bye to Mick and Pat Webster they were very appreciative of all that we had done for them, wished them a good journey and all our love. Apart from that good night!

Saturday 24th June 06
Weather hot and sunny no wind. Arrange a pump out today; Isabelle worried so must get her pumped out (the boat that is). Mick and Patricia Webster arrived for visit. Comments - no signs for the marina, Angela lovely, tested the loo.
Had a terrible shower in the Marina must use Angela’s Shower at least it works! Angela pumped out and taken on diesel. Said good-bye to Michael and Patricia, Michael said a prayer for Angela, families are so important. Said good-byes to all at Tewksbury. James took Angela through both locks at Tewksbury I was very much relieved as I was so upset to wave good-bye to my beloved Mike and Patricia. As such my concentration was not 100%.
Set of at 2.30 pm, good sailing at about 1700 revs. Used the VHF for the first time, no problems at all. Arrived Gloucester 1730. First major lock problem, I had knocked the accelerator which moved Angela forward therefore putting to much stress on the Bow and Stern lines. Isabelle had to let go of the bowline I was nearly hauled over the stern! Learning point Skipper, all locks are dangerous!!!! James saved the day by attaching a centre rope, well-done James!
Moored next to Millie, John and Jill will come on board for dinner. Isabelle and Janet prepared from scratch a mouth-watering dinner. We all dined on the stern, good conversation have been invited for coffee tomorrow at John and Jill’s flat about 9 am.
Total Engine Run Time 3 hrs (Grand total 15hours)

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Friday 23rd June 06
Weather hot sunny Set of Pershaw 10am. Stuck in the mud. Met Steve and Maria (Tara) helped us through first Lock. Left Pershaw 10.45am.. They gave us two presents.
1. A bed warmer
2. A tiller extension. (Must practice this!)
Angela with crew approaching Pershaw lock.
Nafford Lock departed 12.30 am, no problems thought we had lost a windlass. Decided to moor up for lunch, a cruiser in the way so continued.
13.10 moored at Flybridge for lunch. Phoned Mick (Lockeeper) we cannot make Gloucester this evening hope to RV with Millie tomorrow. As well as my brother Michael Webster.
1510 after a siesta we departed for Tewksbury, Might see Peter (Niomi).1530 Strensham Lock, Isabelle skipper all okay.1615 left lock., arrived Tewksbury 1730.
Total Engine Run Time 5.30 hrs (Grand total 12hours)
Met Peter from Niomi, Great to see him, great night James and Janet treated us to a barbecue in the Marina. The food was well enjoyed, Aberdeen Angus and Salmon. Met all the residents, had a tune on the Small Pipe not a great performance but enjoyable.. Met Wendy and Van. Wendy, like Isabelle and I are learning to skipper. Van may see us in London.

Thursday 22nd June 06
True ownership today.
Set of Evesham sad farewell to Dawntreader, (Mick and Gill) and all at Evesham. 1400 James paid the Licence. Mick waved us off.
Chadbury Lock arrived 1600, locks not set departed 1630. Arrived Fladbury Lock 1715, spotted a Heron. Isabelle dropped Windlass on her toe. Departed 1750.
Arrived Wyre Lock 1930 departed 1945.Tied up at Persham at 2000, Mick (Evesham) lockkeeper phoned can we make Gloucester will try?
Total Engine Run Time 6.30 hours

Wednesday 21st June 06
All had breakfast together, James got his Independent, must remember never go to newsagent during school run.
Maiden Voyage. Conditions windy, Thank God James is here his advice has been well listened to. I managed to reverse into the boat shed a near miss to say the least. Tom Pearce taking photos of Angela. James bought us lunch at the pub by the riverside. Parked her up okay, terrible departure sailed straight into the trees, James lost his hat I nearly lost the VHF ariel. Still we got back okay. Phoned British Waterways, Licence in the post so they say. All tired and in bed by 11 pm.

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Tuesday 20th June 06
Beer, wine for tonight.
James and Janet arrived pm. Great to see them both. Naming party went well, Janet did Angela proud. I am sure all Heritage turned out. Weather starting to worsen dry but windy. Watched the world cup on Dawntreader with James clutching my whisky as well as three Ladies! Late night great company.
Mick has done our website, must speak to him in greater detail.

Monday 19th June 06
Up early, Martin knocking on door, met Phillip. Afternoon handover, lots of information coming in (head about to explode). Need to speak to Tom re lack of battery chargers. PM Invited out by Mike and Jenny, Spent a lovely evening at their home on the waterfront. Mike has a 30-foot narrowboat on a frontal, end of garden mooring. Met Millie’s new owners they are heading of to Gloucester might meet them. Isa in bed too much wine. I am knackered might have to postpone trip for 24 hours. James and Janet arriving tomorrow.

Sunday 18th June 06
Set of early 7 am. On arrival in London packed car then left for Braunston to pick up ropes. Spent a small fortune on spanners, ropes, and windlass. Arrived to unpack. Isabelle is shattered she worked late in the night.

Saturday 17th June 06
Moving day, problem with van hire delayed about four hours. Slavic gave me a hand to load van. Weather so bloody hot suffering from dehydration. Arrived Evesham, greeted by, Dave (Heritage) Mike and Gill (Dawntreader), Helped us unload and cooked us dinner what wonderful friends. A boat crashed into the Marina entrance, bloody frightening, hell of a bang and they were instructors! Decided to stay on Angela overnight.

Friday 16th June 06
Last day at work to day, Isabelle phoned upset from school she is getting hassle over a report containing apostrophizes! This will carry on during her leave, need to support her in this. Same routine busy packing.

Thursday 15th June 06
Up early took Michael and Patricia to Liverpool St Station for them to catch the Stanstead express.
Spent all day packing and running boxes to the storage depot.
Isabelle had a few tears tonight, things getting tuff, still on track.

Wednesday 14th June 06
Got away from work early. Michael and Patricia Webster arrived at 4 pm. Went out for a meal at the Rainbow, much talk about relatives, with Isabelle showing great interest.

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Monday 12th June 06
Lots of phone calls ordered small boats prep for the Severn (BW Gloucester).
Spoke to pilotage have to call them a couple of days prior to Severn, then await the correct window. Spoke to Portishead marina re laying over one night.
The fitting for the radio continues they have phoned me up today and will send the part to Heritage, apart from that a quiet day!

Sunday 11th June 06
Had a senior moment forgot to post letters will do it on the way home. Picked up Isabelle's box must paint it will look nice with rubber mat glued on to the top.
Phoned Dawntreader to day spoke to Mick and Gill they are both well and still going through the 'Heritage experience'. We both agreed good boat builders but they have a lot to learn re customer service. Mentioned to Mick can he do us a web page similar to Dawntreader?
Six days to go must pack tonight, leaving work early at 3.15 every little helps.
Javier and Jenny are visiting this evening.
Both Isabelle and I are still very excited. Isabelle was up at 6 this morning!
7 pm Javier arrived he and Jenny will clean the flat Sat 25th of June.
Lots of packing done, broken the back of it now. Just odds and sods to do.

Saturday 10th June 06
Isabelle called to say that a letter had arrived from British Waterways informing me that a that I had not completed page 2 so my licence application will be delayed. Not much I can do about this. Fill it in re-post and ask them to forward the application to Heritage, Evesham. Damn first mistake. I hope that I fare better with the Ship radio licence! Must send a letter to Tom Smith re overheating engine.
Evening no packing done busy writing letters re engine to Heritage. Have redone licence application for BW.

Friday 9th June 06
Sent Isabelle's check to day for final payment for the boat. Arranged mail forwarding to PO Box at post office. Tried to phone Heritage left message for Martin to call he did reply. Floor done, curtain pole okay the loose Anchor nothing has been done about it, nothing known about the engine running hot. I will write to Heritage. Informed by Martin Tom Pearce is on leave.
I phoned Shire engines they know nothing about the above. I phone Sailgb to chase up the fitting for the radio they are chasing it up. Have sent of cheque for ropes plus fenders.
Spoke to Jim Steven in the evening he will meet us PM on Sunday at the Marina. Jim has informed me that the floor is looking good.
Another busy day some packing done, enjoyed a pizza and a good bottle of wine with Isabelle. She has just bought a pair of pussy cat trainers to wear on the boat.

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Thursday 8th June 06
Paid a visit to South Dock handed photo of Angela to Garry. Very helpful gave me advice depth of Thames and to order a map from www.HarbourBooks.com. Which I have done. Went to PO Box received first mail from Bargee Bill no problem with PO Box. Cancelled standing order for Southwark and Burwood Marsh (hurrah!). Still running about tying up loose ends will have to focus from PM onwards on serious Packing.

Wednesday 7th June 06
More phone calls, Teddington and Brentford Lock, re Anchor and chain very informative especially Simon at Brentford. Phoned ‘Get Knotted’ more conversation on ropes breaking strains etc. Do not know the answer so have asked Tom at Heritage to give me a call. Knackered once again.
Success! Spoke to Pete at Tradline, has all the answers, a very great help. Still awaiting rope from Allan (Get Knotted).

Tuesday 6th June 06
Happy birthday to me. Spent to day at work, no rest having to make lots of phone calls. Ordered ropes plus fenders, very technical had to Ask Martin at Evesham to measure dollies for width of rope. I am also hoping to get a box made for Isabelle. More money spent, getting expensive dread my phone bill, if it wasn't for Isabelle's help I would not know what to do. Martin from Heritage phoned, Jim has delivered the adjusted curtain rods great news. Phoned James asked him to bring binoculars.
Isa brought me a bottle of champagne much enjoyed with nice food and chocolate tarts.
Emails in the evening to various people.

Monday 5th June 06
Sent the BW licence application away today noticed that 10 full days are required for return of licence I hope I have allowed enough time. Spoke to Martin from Heritage two points safe has been locked out they will replace and they cannot find the ariel connection for VHF so I will have to re-order. Also spoke to Tom final payment confirmed. Spent all day doing paperwork I am Knackered.

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Sunday 4th of June 06 We all overslept, good sleep last night we are all tired and the excitement continues. Managed to borrow a milk crate of Steve Smith (Heritage) for Isabelle, she can see over the roof now! Planned to leave at 9 am and return at 3 pm. Bob Strachan turned up at 9 we were not ready. finally departed 10 am. Bob even managed to sing YMCA along with the dance routine much to Terry’s delight! Much improved boat handling to day, however I had a senior moment after lock and nearly forgot to pick up the crew. (No! it was just bad boat handling really) Mick, lock keeper from Evesham presented Isabelle with a Brass Plate then I accidentally deleted the photos so will have to replay the next time through. Bob presented helmsman Certificates, late afternoon 5 pm. What a character, great instructor, we are now at the start of our learning. We hope that Bob will join us for a social trip on the Kennet and Avon. On return Isabelle made the end of day checks on the engine. Terry and I secured Angela, switched gas of, cratch back on etc. A sad good-bye was made to Angela, she is a perfect boat and the weather conditions superb. The engine is still running hot Tom Pearce is aware.

Sat 3rd June 06 Hectic morning, not a good sleep no curtains on door must sleep with feet at head of bed! Jim arrived great to see him spent all day on boat he has kindly offered to make adjustments to curtain poles what a great friend. Bob Strachan arrived still trying to tie up loose ends of boat, curtains phoned Christine, worried about ropes, just enough for a local trip. No fenders either. What a great day lots to learn instructors great. Isabelle was fantastic she did her first lock Evesham well done, what a Lady, I am so proud of her! Terry at the tiller and myself, lots to learn. Must note Isabelle needs a box to stand on. Was sad to see Jim leave, won't be long till we meet again. Had a visit from Dave wished us luck he is so proud of Angela after all he built her.

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Friday 2nd June 06 Left for Evesham with Terry. On arrival viewed Angela for the first time. She looks stunning, new and shiny with ivory roof. Hectic brief tour of boat; floor yet to be finished (no problems). Met the owners of Dawntreader, new build narrowboat. Had a welcome drink with them, food supplied by Mick and Gill, Late night bed at midnight, Bed slopes down have to sleep with feet to top of bed. No curtains in spare room or on Bow twin doors.

Captains Thank you

I am glad to report the safe arrival of Angela and her crew to her home mooring in London. After a journey time of 14 days where we learned such a lot about Angela and the inland waterways. A special thanks to James Cole who took the tiller on the difficult waters and for enhancing, and fine tuning our very much needed boat handling skills. Thanks to Janet and Merrick for all their hard work on the 125 + locks.

A very special thanks to my partner Isabelle, for her times at the tiller, the kitchen, cleaning duties, lock working etc. She has made this dream possible for the two of us.

Thanks to all at Heritage for building Angela and I hoped they all enjoyed her naming ceremony.

Thanks to me of course for doing the bits that nobody wanted to do, engine, weed hatch, swabbing, brasses, skippers log etc.

I apologies for working the Crew so hard, well we did manage a few hours of (for lunch). A truly hard working journey on a very well prepared boat. Would we do it again? Yes but cruising, not working the boat, to much like hard work. By the way tip for the day beer cans (lots of them) make a great ballast substitute.

For all our friends that we met on the way, you all have a mention in the skippers log, along with photos so please visit the web site again., I will post them as soon as I can.

Thanks to Mick and Gill on Dawntreader for the website.

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