First This Year

With the visit of Pete and Michelle from Reading, Quidditch got her first sailing of 2007.

In fact astonishingly this was the first time we had ventured beyond the marina since ending our Summer 06 tour in September. What greeted us was a shock to say the least! The traffic on this stretch of the canal system seems to have increased 5 fold. We knew that the newly increased size of Calcut Marina (200 extra berths) would have an impact but where have the rest come from? Who knows what it's going to be like when Vetnor Marina eventually launch their extra 200 berths?
While having breakfast at bridge 103 on the Sunday morning it was like being on the canal version of the M25 motorway. This section of the system already known as 'Tick-Over Alley' has certainly earned it's name. For us I'm afraid it's taken away the tranquillity of mooring at bridge 103 our favourite local spot, gone are the days when one or two boats would drift by enroute to Braunston.
Nevertheless, Pete and Michelle thoroughly enjoyed their short stay and insight into the boaty way of life. Pete goes away with the unfortunate accolade of The Quidditch All-Time-Top-Snorer!!
Dee and I now look forward to the end of May when our Summer 07 tour begins, late this year due to our 3 week Scottish camping and twitching trip.