Fresh Waters

I moved on today, the weather looked favourable and I had no reason to stay longer.
A slow steady cruise through the Oxfordshire countryside.

Passing a busy Enslow Wharf and lots of moored boats.

At the second lock of the morning Bakers lock (40) two boats were approaching so no need to close the gates, the first boat however pulled over and allowed the second boat to take the lock first, not sure why but I guess they had their reasons.

The River Cherwell joins the canal at this point and for a short while you have deep wide water to cruise in before the canal leaves on the right at Shipton Weir lock (41).

Bit blurry but the sign says Oxford Canal right, the lock is just out of sight.

Another lift bridge (219) to deal with after the lock, same procedure as for the one at Lower Heyford except the bridge has a chain so only the padlock needed, just as I had got it suitably secured in the up position a passing walker asked if I needed help! timing is so important, I thanked him but said I was ok.

Then it was into Thrupp, I passed a few gaps in the initial visitor moorings and continued on.

Approaching Thrupp Canal Cruisers Club

 And then had to deal with the electric lift bridge which is immediately after the sharp right turn,being electric helps, no need for chain or padlock just a BW key. 

Through that and some 7 day moorings available so that would do for today.

I am now on 'Fresh Waters', last time I came down the Oxford I winded before the lift bridge.

Having got moored up I decided to put a second coat of paint on the bow well deck areas, I was about halfway through when a boat slowed alongside and asked if could move back so he could get in, there had been a boat in front of me who had moved on leaving a not quite big enough gap for the new arrival, So I completed the bit I was painting and pulled back a bit allowing them in to the space, then coninued my painting.

Once I had finished I had a stroll around Thrupp, not much to see, it's a tiny place but a popular boating spot.

The sharp right turn with the bridge in view, service point over on the right
and room to wind (turn) at the corner.

The Boat Inn, one of two pubs in Thrupp.

Totals today: 3 miles : 3 locks : 2 lift bridges