Banbury

Late on Monday fuel boat Dusty arrived as promised, I relieved them of 8 bags of smokeless fuel but sadly they had run out of diesel so that will have to wait, I've only used about 30ltrs since the last fill so it's not a problem.

On Wednesday the weather was bright and my 14 days were up and I decided to move up to Banbury, it was only going to be a short cruise if I could get a mooring where I wanted to be so I left around 10am.

I saw a couple of famous characters on the way, first was Che Guevara, he wasn't around but his boat was moored up.

And then just a little further along Zorro was also resting up.

The variety of boats is always fascinating to me.

I was soon passing Twyford Wharf where it looked like a day boat was being worked on.

 And then the short run through open fields,

to Grants lock (30) at 9' 6" deep and with a bridge at the entrance it was time to christen the new paintwork on the rubbing strake (the name says it all) it's unavoidable damage, but when you have only just finished it a little tear may roll down your cheek ;-)

Onwards with the sun on my back now, a lovely day ahead.

Passing beneath the M40 again and feeling joyous not to be on it.

I arrived at the Tramway moorings just before the town center and very convenient for Morrisons and was lucky to find a nice spot on the end of the 14 day piled section, so that was me sorted.

Within half an hour the section behind me was full, so I was happy to have timed it right.

Totals this post: 3.5 miles : 1 lock : 5 lift bridges (open)

I have done some catching up with non perishable provisions and will stay put a while now to catch up with other things while the town is within easy reach. The only downside is no TV signal but I can live withought that and watch the F1 and Strictly Come Dancing on the laptop :-)

There is a boat festival in Banbury this weekend so I will have a wander and see what that's like tomorrow, happy days.