Day 65 and we started at 0730 to get the rest of the Atherstone flight done before it got too hot. Those who know J will know that is this quite momentous as early mornings are not her thing but needs must. Lots of other people on the move too, starting with a boat going the same way as us that left at 0615. Spoke to one boat going the other way who were really burning the time two days in a row starting at 0600 and finishing at 2030; rather them than me in this temperature. Have seen a number of old working boats going the other way over yesterday and today, but the highlight today was a motor and butty which we met while D was on the tiller, fortunately just after a bridge but with moored boats on both sides – both D and the other two helms did a good job with no contact with any boat (moving or stationary). Stopped at the marina where SH was moored as Finesse; slightly confused the staff, some of whom thought they recognised the boat but obviously she is now called something different. Moved on and moored just after Hawkesbury junction where we were nuzzled by a loose pony and later nearly run over by three ponies when the stallion was getting a bit frisky. Not the best mooring but at least we found some shade to sit in and eat our ice creams (bought earlier at the marina and put in the freezer).

Day 66 and a standard 0800 start as we had a lazy day (no locks), steady run to Rugby where J did a mega shop as we won’t be anywhere with such good shopping facilities for a long time and we later went to see Solo at a nearby cinema – just coming to the end of its run so only four of us watching, very exclusive…. Moorings very busy had to get someone to budge up so we could get in.

Day 67 and another early start, this time to get the Hilmorton locks done before it got too hot. The cruised to Braunston, observed by some sheep on a bridge.

Not sure why D took this picture

Through Braunston we would normally turn right at this bridge

but going on along GU. A few bits of domestic necessity then up through Branston locks six broad locks, we managed to share for half of them which helped and swopped with boats travelling in the opposite direction most times. Stopped for late lunch a J then knackered. On through the Braunston tunnel in about 20 minutes as J doesn’t particularly like tunnels as goes as fast as she can, didn’t meet anyone coming the other way until nearly at the end. Nice shady mooring before reaching the next set of locks.