ICED IN!

We tried and failed. The ice on the Worcester and Birmingham Canal is too thick. We moved out of Alvechurch and cruised to Just South of Wast Hill Tunnel. If the ice was as thick between here and Gas Street Basin we would'nt be able to get there before dark and the risk of mooring in the pound North of Wast Hill Tunnel is too high, so its best we moor here just South of Bridge 69.

Our current location South of Bridge 69 on the Worcesterand Birmingham Canal

The adventure starts here

We're just getting ready to load the car with all the parafernalia that comes with narrow boating. I've had a thought, (careful) I have'nt washed the car, its in a bit of a state with driving through muddy lanes. Oh! well... If I'd washed it, it would probably be filthy dirty again by the time we get to Alvechurch.

I've checked for stoppages on the BCN and the Worcester and Birmingham and its all clear, just a restriction at Selly Oak.

I'll catch up later, hopefully from the Gas Street Basin area.

Best laid plans...

Well, it looks as though most of  the canals around Alvechurch are closed at various places due to planned and unplanned maintenance. We were hoping to cruise the Grand Union but the Stratford is closed just North of Lapworth Junction, so we thought Birmingham and we'll cruise some backwaters we've not been before. Think again, the Worcester and Birmingham is closed at Selly Oak for a new road and aqueduct. Only one route left, the W and B to Worcester - Tardebigge again - and again on the way back. Oh! well, its all good excercise and we really need excercise.

UPDATE: 23/01/10
The stoppage at Selly Oak has been lifted.