Summer Cruise 2013 (24)

Bingley Five Rise to Apperley Bridge

Light rain fell overnight but the sky was clear by dawn. Broken cloud with the odd black cloud mixed in was the order of the day. However we managed to avoid any rain whilst cruising along.

Morning: 8:30 into the top lock ready to descend the flight. A quick transit had us on our way. The bingley three were soon behind us and Dowley Gap two rise were next on the list.

Afternoon: Low water level in the pound between Dowley Gap Locks to Hirst Lock had us plowing the bottom in places. We came across a CaRT employee who was checking the embankment along the length for a leak. Then it was the challenge that is Dock Swing bridge which has a collapsed bridge landing on the up stream and two long term moored pans on the down stream landings. Why do CaRT long term moor pans on landings.

Evening: Large field with short grass provided an excellent place for poppy to chase her ball. Then it was out for a meal at the George and Dragon. The meal was so good on the outward leg that we have decide to pay a return visit on the return leg. Then we met David Brent - the pub manager from hell. Criticising staff in front of customers is not a good sign. Especially when the staff were courteous, pleasant,  hard working, and unhappily under a cloud caused by the unwarranted criticism of the nob.  

Wildlife: Dragonfly -My first Red Darter for 2013 several Four Spot Chasers. Damselflies a few Emerald and Banded Demoiselle. Butterfly - Orange Tip, Meadow Brown, Comma, Peacock and Painted Lady.

Todays Total.

Miles: 7.5
Locks: 16
Swing / Lift Bridges: 7
Tunnels. 0
Pump Outs: 0

Engine Hours: 6.5

Solar Panels: 21 Ah

Accumulated Total.

Miles: 1541.8
Locks: 1023
Swing / Lift Bridges:224
Tunnels. 26
Pump Outs: 15

Engine Hours: 2673.7
Solar Panels: 10200 Ah