Tipton.

3 Locks, 8.83 miles, 1 Tunnel. Now moored at the Black Country Museum.

With all 3 tanks,water, waste and diesel, requiring attention it was time to move. With today being the best option as far as the long range weather forecast was concerned we set off just after 9 am. First port of call was the water point at Cambrian wharf where I also took advantage of the shower. Next stop was Sherbourne Wharf on the Oozell Loop to empty one tank and fill the other with 135 litre’s of diesel. Derek and Carrie on Uccello gave us a half hour head start then followed on behind.

Sherbourne Wharf on the Oozell Loop in Birmingham. Hi Paul, its looking good at its home mooring.

Once both boats had been sorted we then headed North. Travelling through the old industrial area’s was quite amazing to see the many old arm’s leading to derelict factories. It gave a different perspective to what the canal industry must have been like in it’s hay day. We hadn’t planned on travelling quite so far but we couldn’t find any decent moorings so we carried on to our present position. We will probably move during the week and return here next week-end when family plan a visit on both boats.

One of the many dis-used arms along the New main Line. There would have been a factory or wharf at the other end.  Toll Island's in the centre of the canal. There were several of these. One of many attractive bridges crossing the New main Line. Another toll island fills the canal. Spon Lane bridge.

After a great deal of thought we have come to the conclusion that we may be selling Gypsy Rover sooner than planned so we will be getting her valued very soon. Once we have a better idea on price we will be advertising the sale properly. Just keeping our options open.

M5 bridges looms over everything. Photo taken from the other side of the same bridge showing bridge supports in the centre of the canal.

2105 locks, 4111.44 miles, 80 tunnels, 130 swing bridges and 58 lift bridges since Nov 2006