17 August 2011 - Barrow on Soar to Kings Lock, Leicester

The last boat through the lock last night told us he had turned around as there was no water south of Leicester and boats couldnt get through.  The British Waterways website seemed to say otherwise and that we could pass with care but hours of operation were restricted.  We decided to press on.  Met up with nb.Deacon Blue and nb.Grace whom we had seen travelling together as long ago as Banbury - they were doing the Leicester ring the other way round and had just come north through Leicester.  Shallow but still do-able at the moment they told us.

Going into one lock we met eight gentleman in a day boat.  They had all gone to the Loughborough Grammar School (class of 1948) and had a reunion every year by hiring a boat and going for a meal.  We travelled together for several locks, during which time they steadily consumed their huge stock of wine and beers.  Several bottles of port were reserved for after the meal and the journey back.  Annie threatened to jump ship and join them.

The 'class of '48' geriatric drinking party

Entering Leicester things became steadily more industrial and threatening.  Every lock had groups of youths congregating, along with a bunch of alcoholics swigging away.  However all seemed quite affable, although we were asked if we had any food or drink, and could they have a go!  Sorry lads.... The centre of Leicester has a glorious straight mile of river - lovely and wide.  Whilst we saw a rowing club, similarities with Oxford and the Thames stopped there.  The river was choked with weed, buildings alongside were derelict and the river was shut in and threatening. We couldnt help feeling that, industrial though it was, the city had turned its back on the river rather than making it a focal point to be proud of. Someone is missing a trick.

Landscape of chimneys - Leicester's dereliction

The cities forgotten 'straight mile'

Inexplicably Lady decided to fall into the canal - not once but twice.  First time she just toppled in off the deck and swam to the side.  Fortunately this was right next to some canal work and a British Waterways  chap pulled her out for us.  Lady was a bit of a liability today.....

Lady just after being dragged out of the canal
Fortunately her harness helped.

We arrived at Kings Lock - the top of the restriction - at 5pm.  The lock, and the next few along, were padlocked until 9am tomorrow to save water. Fortunately we were now through the grotty bits and out in the open.  2 other boats were there and it all looked quite pleasant and safe. Good TV reception - yipee!