Another night of being woken by heavy rain and even heavier hail. This morning though the sun was shining so we set off. Within 30 mins the dark clouds came bringing a shower of rain, it didnt last long and although not warm it did brighten up again. Entering Blackburn it wasn’t long before we arrived at the seven locks in the town. (what a pleasure, NOT). The Nicholson guides state that the lock keeper keeps a tidy flight, well not anymore- rubbish abounds both in and out of the water, some of the gates had broken paddles, water levels were low (paddles left open !!). It took around a couple of hours to clear the locks. It seemed to take a while to clear Blackburn and get to open country. We made steady progress to our overnight moorings at Hapton, which thankfully are great with lovely views. Oh by the way another trip to the weed hatch today to remove a childs anorak minus the child!!!!.
Today 16 miles 6 locks 3 swing bridges