DREAMER NARROWBOAT: Great Bedwyn

10th July, 2014

Yesterday was a chilling out day for the family. I enjoyed touching bow and stern to other boats as we discussed where we have been. Susan has a painful back so was resting whilst Pete went shopping.

In the evening, Susan cooked some biscuits which Pete loved.

We set off again today to Great Bedwyn. On the way Pete finds out that the tokens for the BW sanitary pump-out can be purchased from the local post office. Susan and Mazey walk nearly all of the 5 miles today. Susan says there were lots of butterflies and a few Kites.

Swing bridge and church at Hungerford

There were 2 swing bridges; one of which went across the lock (similar to the one experienced at Stansted Abbots). Susan had a problem returning the last bridge into place at Hungerford Marsh Lock. It took all her effort to push it back into place. I did hear a lot of swearing.

Luckily, after a few locks I get to share the lock with another boat. This always make me happy as I do not bounce about so much if there is another boat in the lock. I like sharing!

Hungerford Marsh Lock

I also enjoy trying to outrun the trains from the Great Western main line that escort us along this stretch.

Dreamer and Great Western train

At Cobblers Lock Pete chats and chats and chats........ Could he have forgotten I am here?

Cobblers Lock

Just as we arrive in Great Bedwyn, Pete asks Susan to jump off the front into the reeds and then to run up the towpath to check if there is an available spot at the visitor moorings. Whilst this is happening Pete ends up getting me stuck in the silt. Pete is angry and annoyed. I am not happy either. Try having your bottom stuck in mud and other horrible stuff. Pete tries to use the pole to push me off from the edge. No luck. Susan cannot help as she is too far away on the towpath. Thankfully, she doesn't laugh...... Eventually, luck is in, my stern moves away from the edge and Pete moves me into the space. I am exhausted and not entirely happy but perhaps I will feel better tomorrow. I am sulking!!!

Pete walks into the village and buys BW tokens at the Post Office. There are lots of monuments featured on the front and side of the Post Office building......