Good boating

We reckon three hours Branston to Alrewas, so off we went at 7.30. It turned out to be an excellent run, Sheila steering, Bruce locking. It was quiet at first, but traffic soon built up though it never became a problem.

What was a bit of bother was CRT boat Chubb across the cut above Tatenhill lock with her bows on the weir. We hauled her back to the towpath and tied her as best we could with the tatty bits of blue string hanging off her. I went to give the Fazeley office a call to let them know, but found I didn't have their number in my phone book.

The CRT website only gives the generic number, 0303 0404040, these days. I gave it a ring, but as it was before office hours, it just rang out, not even a message about using the emergency number. I wasn't about to do that, it wasn't that kind of call, but it would make sense if it reminded you of the option.

I did call again after nine and was dealt with both efficiently and courteously. Mind you, it's a bit scary when the call handler knows your name without asking. Presumably, they have number recognition and a database of licence holders' numbers.

We got to Alrewas in good time despite the delay and found loads of room to moor. Visitor moorings really do seem to be better used these days, much less obstruction by the usual suspects.

It's been a quiet afternoon on another very warm day. We've done letters to the surgery with our change of address from the PO to the marina, tackled last Saturday's general knowledge crossword and otherwise pottered about.

Tonight, steak from Coates's, a belated wedding anniversary celebration.