intrepid pony: The CRT Volunteers

lock landing on the Severn

wide relaxing waters

Another sunny morning - is this really England?

I struggled to open the heavy lock gates glad they were the last two then we were down on the straight River Severn.

How wide it seemed after the narrow twisting canals. It also felt featureless as it had no bridges or obstacles.

wide water for a large swan

perfect reflections

I saw a kingfisher flying along the side of the river staying close to the left bank below the overhanging trees.

It was a pleasant cruise down to Stourport. We intended to moor on the river for lunch before tacking the two staircase locks through the basins but the pontoons were full.

waterside dwellings

debris caught on the weir

It was lunch time and the Captain felt hungry, yet at least 4 locks stood between him and his food. A CRT Volunteer looked over the fence and signalled to the Captain. He nodded wearily.

proper boats

nowhere to moor

However the two CRT Volunteers worked both staircase locks for us. The Captain winced as he drew level with the funfair that roared next to the basin, but cheered up when the CRT Volunteers told him that he could moor at the Wharf for a couple of hours. Fortunately it was on the far side away from the blaring music and screaming.

staircase lock and funfair

CRT volunteer at top of first staircase

Tummy filled and rested we set off again. The two CRT Volunteers strode across the basin as we turned the boat to leave and worked the lock out of the basin for us. Now that’s service, and with big smiles too .

moored at The Wharf

the lower basin

We cruised slowly to our mooring outside Stourport. At first the silence was broken by gunshots but the evening was quiet. Perfect for both Lottie and the Captain. Only one speeding boat rocked our haven then peace descended again.