Altrincham Bound

We spent the night just after the Anderton Boat Lift and set off in heavy showers, removing the cratch cover ready for the tunnels.

We stopped at Northwich Services for water, emptying Elsan and rubbish. Chris had a shower (not as good as the ones in Bosley). Then, we did the three tunnels - one each. Fiona did Barnton, Stella Saltersford and we let Chris do Preston Brook! We were in a convoy of four boats through Preston Brook (we were third in line, followed by a Scout Group, who had a wonderful weekend and saw a goat at the Barnton Stoplock!)

We all took turns on.the tiller and managed to get as far as Dunham Massey,  before mooring up, putting the cratch cover back on and having chilli and rice. A good day and after Barnton; no rain, but very windy all day. It has been really enjoyable having three people to share the steering; Stella has yet to do the steering in a lock, but this trip and Fiona has given her the confidence to steer Nb Gracie. We will go to Altrincham tomorrow and let Fiona catch up with her Dad's family.We will be mooring where we used to take the dogs walking, so it will be interesting to see their reaction.

So all in all, a successful day and life on NB Gracie is very chilled.