Peak Forest Canal Carrying Company/Renaissance

Petter Pampering

2012-01-27T23:51:00.000Z

Before Christmas we decided it was time to give Altons Petter PD2 engine a bit more care than just its usual oil change. So we arranged to call up and see Charles Mills at Vintage Marine Diesels at Poynton. Charles soon set about stripping off the engine covers & shrouding and ducting.

The Cowling Stripped Off

The removal of the fan and pulleys went OK but back at the workshop, pressing out the bearings was a bit more difficult and in the end 2 pulleys broke, so Charles had to get busy machining up a couple of new ones.

Fan & Pulleys Removed

Cleaned up Fan with New Pulley

After a clean & degrease Charles set too with the re-assembly, including new filters.

New Filters & Pulley

Charles Re-assembling

With a sump full of fresh Morris oil the Petter soon fired up sounding well with good oil pressure.

Healthy Oil Pressure

Working over 2000 hrs a year we hope the Petter will continue to give us good service (touch wood) now that it's had some TLC. We certainly know lots of boaters love to here that beat of that exhaust note ;-)

New Year 2012

2012-01-25T23:57:00.000Z

Happy New Year! Well it's been a good & busy start to the 2012 so I'll try & catch up with our news on the blog over the next few days. Our first coal run was over the New Year period & we celebrated by tying up at Disley and were joined by my brother Mike and George & Irene Boyle for a very pleasant evening at the White Lion with a fine selection of real ales. We got back to the boat at 3am so we treated ourselves to a lie in until our first customer of the day Annie on Brave New World came alongside about 9am and roused us from our slumber!

Ann Marie & Irene at The White Lion

Ann Marie & Mike at the White Lion

Annie on Brave New World Heading off after topping up her Supplies

We had a busy day on Sunday the 1st grabbing breakfast & lunch on the go whilst Mike stopped in bed till mid afternoon nursing a hangover! A few other boaters seemed to be struggling with hangovers and weren't their normal chatty selves, but there seemed to have been a few good parties and "boaters get togethers".

Merry Christmas & A Happy New Year from Alton & Crew

2011-12-30T13:13:00.000Z

Well our last round before Christmas was fun. An inch or so of ice most of the way from Macclesfield to Whaley Bridge, accompanied by snow, sleet & hail. Then on Monday the weather turned milder & it poured down with rain all day & we were soaked to the skin! Anyway we hope all our customers received a bottle of Red Willow "Smokeless" smoked Porter. In Brian's opinion this is a super beer & we wanted to support this great new Macclesfield Brewery (see http://redwillowbrewery.com/blog/). So cheers everyone & here's to a good new year.

A big thank you to everyone who gave us Christmas cards & gifts, we are always so overwhelmed by your generosity, home made Christmas cake & mince pies, panatone, bottles of wine & beer,biscuits & chocolates, even a bluetooth headset so we can answer the phone hands free. But what we really appreciated was the very kind words from you all, it's just so lovely to be appreciated & we know we are so lucky to work within a community of such good people.

We had a good old fashioned family christmas staying with my (Brian's) parents on the Wirral. We were amazed to still have my Sister Aileen with us to share Christmas day & my parents looked after us all so well, love you Mum & Dad.

Today it's back to work for us. We're loading Alton this morning & if all goes well we're hoping to start the round later this afternoon, so that we can hopefully have a reasonably early finish for New Years Eve before heading onto the Peak Forest on New Years Day.

All the best, from Brian & Ann Marie

Badsey's Tipcat & Button

2011-12-14T23:23:00.000Z

On our way back from visiting my Sister Fiona near Peterborough we decided to stop for lunch at the Badsey Cafe at Hillmorton Locks http://www.badseys.co.uk/ . Here Ian & Lesley Lauder run a lovely little canalside cafe with there GU motor Badsey moored right outside. One reason for calling in was that I had recently made a set of stern fenders for Badsey & it would be good to see them fitted, they looked pretty smart even though I say so myself. We had a delicious lunch & a good chat with Ian & Lesley about the joys & tribulations of running an old working boat & they were more than happy with their fenders having recently completed an Autumn run down to London.

Peter tucking in at Wagamama

2011-12-14T15:02:00.001Z

Peter & Ann Marie at IWMN

2011-12-14T15:00:00.000Z

Peter Playing with Ice!

2011-12-14T14:59:00.000Z

My Sister Aileen

2011-12-14T14:57:00.000Z

A Well Earned Break

2011-12-14T14:54:00.000Z

After such a busy last round we felt we deserved a few days off catching up with friends & family. On Tuesday evening after clothing up Alton & tidying round, we set off on a long drive across the country to Glinton near Peterborough to see my (Brian's) Sister Fiona, Brother-in-Law Rob & our 2 year old niece Ellie. We had a great couple of days with them, we celebrated Fiona's Birthday at the Golden Pheasant at Etton http://www.thegoldenpheasant.net/ with delicious food & fine ales from Castle Rock & Batemans. We also went shopping in Stamford & to Ellie's toddlers group where we got to make paper chains & joined in the parachute game, all good fun. On Friday I made my way back up to the Wirral to see my other Sister Aileen. She had been very poorly all week, eating & drinking very little. I was very lucky to catch her on one of her few good days. She was smiling & alert, able to say a few words. I took her out to the Canarvon Castle pub for lunch & although she struggled to feed herself she enjoyed a big bowl of hearty mushroom soup & big hunks of bread. I felt so lucky to be able to spend some happy time together it was so good to see Aileen smiling & laughing again.

On Friday evening & Saturday we had our Godson Peter to stay with us. He was in good form & he loves to stay in "his" forecabin on Alton. We stayed in on Friday, Ann Marie made us nachos & flour tortilla's for tea, then we all settled down to watch Monsters Inc on DVD which we all enjoyed. Saturday morning we went off to the Imperial War Museum North, where we had an interesting time with quite a few hands on things for Peter to do. The exhibition on war correspondents was very good & thought provoking. Later we went into Manchester city centre to the Christmas Market followed by noodles for tea at Wagamamma - yum. So after all that chilling we were well rested for getting back to work!

FMC Badger

2011-12-10T20:00:00.000Z

A few weeks ago I posted a photo of George & Irene Boyle's new boat Badger on my facebook page. It caused quite a bit of comment, with one person in particular stating that the boat was painted in the wrong FMC livery/colours. I mentioned this to George & he very kindly showed be an old photograph of Badger when it was fairly new resplendent in FMC black & white, very similar to how it is today. So I think that's settled that discussion. Thanks George!

Winter Draws on

2011-12-08T23:01:00.000Z

We set off from Oakgrove about 7.30 on Saturday morning, with the rain falling & a chilly breeze it felt like winter had started. Our first customers where at Gurnett & then in Macc, we were fairly busy & the phone was going with some regularity with orders coming in. The rain eased off later in the morning but came again throughout the afternoon with some very heavy showers. By 6pm we'd reached Poynton & decided to call it a day. Brian nipped down to the Boar's Head for a drink, they had Brain's Merlin's Oak on as a guest ale so he decided to try a pint. Unfortunately it was a very mediocre, with very little taste at all, so I suppose in some ways it complemented the regular Black Sheep & Thwaites Best Bitter that were also available.

We set off from Poynton at 8am with the wind and rain making there presence know again. We had a busy morning in Poynton, High Lane & Marple with lots of people stocking up on solid fuels. We also noticed that more people are now purchasing fuel additives. We now stock Fuelset http://liquideng.co.uk/ & Marine 16 http://www.marine16.co.uk/index.html , see their web pages for more details on these products.

From Marple we continued down the Upper Peak Forest and the weather turned even worse. We served our last customers of the day at New Mills before continuing on in the dark to Bugworth Basin. We got ourselves in the cabin to get warm, dry & changed into fresh clothes. We decided to treat ourselves to tea at the Navvy, Ann Marie enjoyed navigation chicken, whilst Brian made a pig of himself with the mixed grill. Clean plates all round made it clear we enjoyed the food and were ready for it. On the beer front there were the usual suspects of Black Sheep & Tim Taylor's Landlord but there was also Buxton High Tor at 6.3%, Brian decided to try a pint of this Indian Red Ale and was rewarded with a lovely malty yet hoppy beer that was surprisingly easy to drink. Later we were joined by George & Irene Boyle & we had a very pleasant evening catching up with each others news. Suffice to say we were the last customers to leave as the night just flew by in good company. We came out of the pub to find a light covering of snow had fallen. But we soon settled down to sleep in our cosy warm cabin on Alton.

We reset the alarm a few times on Monday morning but eventually dragged ourselves out of bed by 7.30. We had to sweep the snow & hail of the gunnels before we could start. Our first customers were on Polestar moored in the lower Basin, this was a new customer for us & it was good to meet such a lovely friendly couple who had been helping on the IWPS work party on the previous day. We continued our deliveries with a busy morning around Whaley Bridge & Furness Vale. At some point we realised that our shunting pole had gone missing from the cabin top at some point, so please keep your eyes open for a 7ft ash shaft & with a curly pigs tail hook on the end.

The weather continued to be atrocious with a mixture of rain, sleet, snow & hail. We finally tied up at Poynton wide after serving our last few customers as darkness fell. We had good old Fray Bentos Pie, potatoes & veg for tea & then chilled out in the cabin & got a much needed early night

On Monday the weather seemed even worse, if that was possible! We donned some extra layers, swept the gunnels & cloths of snow & set off by 8. We still had quite a few customers to catch on the way back, so we took it in turns to steer & grab some breakfast, eggy bread mmm! We had some good drops of coal in Bollington & around Macc & we soon found we sold out of Pet Coke, House Coal & various brands of Smokeless, it's certainly good to be busy! So all in all we had a very successful if rather knackering coal round.

Alton's Winter Schedule 2011/12

2011-12-02T22:38:00.001Z

Sat 3rd to Tues 6th Dec:- Oakgrove (Macc Br49) to Marple, Bugsworth & Whaley Bridge   return

Sat 17th to Tues 20th Dec:-   Oakgrove (Macc Br49) to Marple, Bugsworth & Whaley Bridge return

Wed 21st to Fri 23rd Dec:-    Road deliveries to Congleton, Kidsgrove, Middlewich, Nantwich, Chester, Ellesmere Port, Northwich, Ashton-under-Lyne, Manchester Piccadilly etc.

Sat 31st Dec to Wed 4th Jan:- Oakgrove (Macc Br49) to Marple, Bugsworth & Whaley Bridge return

Sat 14th to Tues 17th Jan:-   Oakgrove (Macc Br49) to Marple, Bugsworth & Whaley Bridge return

Wed 25th to Fri 27th Jan:- Road deliveries to Congleton, Kidsgrove, Middlewich, Nantwich, Chester, Ellesmere Port, Northwich, Ashton-under-Lyne, Manchester Piccadilly etc.

Sat 28th to Tues 31st Jan:-     Oakgrove (Macc Br49) to Marple, Bugsworth & Whaley Bridge return

Fri 10th to Mon 13th Feb:-    Oakgrove (Macc Br49) to Marple, Bugsworth & Whaley Bridge return

Tues 14th to Sat 18th Feb:- Oakgrove (Macc Br49) to Congelton Kidsgrove, Middlewich, Nantwich, Chester & Ellesmere Port

Sun 19th to Fri 24th Feb:-    Ellesmere Port to Chester, Middlewich, Anderton, River Weaver, Preston
Brook, Kidsgrove, & Oakgrove (Macc Br 49)

Sat 25th to Tues 28th Feb:-    Oakgrove (Macc Br49) to Marple, Bugsworth & Whaley Bridge return

Family, Fenders & A Friendly Robin

2011-12-02T21:20:00.001Z

Family First

Well it's been another hectic couple of weeks for us, nothing new there! We've been too-ing and fro-ing from Macclesfield up to the Wirral a lot to spend more time with my Sister Aileen. She's had some good days and bad days, but on the whole she is deteriorating. Last Wednesday whilst up delivering supplies around Chester I called in to see Aileen, she wasn't in the best of form, she turned up her nose at a bowl of soup, she didn't want a cuppa, and gave me a her withering look when I tried to feed her ice cream. I could tell she was down in the dumps, "do you want to go & sit in your room & listen to some music?" ..... silence, "do you want to go outside for a fag?"....... in desperation, "do you want to go to the pub?", "YES" came the reply. So my Brother Mike and I took her down to the Caernarfon Castle pub down the road where she declared "this is great" (the most she's said in some time) and supped a half a lager whilst Mike and I checked out the Wainwright bitter. Mike and I took Aileen out again on Sunday and she was much brighter and more alert. We went to West Kirby for the afternoon, we blew the cobwebs away walking on the prom & watched the wind surfers at play. We soon retired to a cosy cafe for a late lunch and although she didn't eat much she enjoyed a good proper coffee.

Aileen & Brian Blowing the Cobwebs Away at West Kirby

Unfortunately since then Aileen's taken a bit of a turn for the worse & is struggling to eat or drink or take her medication, so it's not an easy time at the moment but friends and family are spending plenty of time with her.

Fender Making

It's also been good to get some fender making done also, it's such a satisfying and rewarding thing to make a good set of fenders and have something to show for your days efforts. It's also very therapeutic to just work away in your own little world hitching away and watching the ropework build into something that you can be proud to have made. Our regular customer Gary & Tracy on "Essence" ordered a long button fender in Victory black rope for the Stern of their lovely Braidbar boat, they had a bit of trouble working out how to fit the fender, so on our last coal run we called in and fitted it for them.

Essence's Long Button

Then on Sunday we met up with our old 2CV friends Dave & Ann Marie Burdett, who after much preparation have bought their own narrow boat "Legend". They also needed new fenders for their boat so they met us at Marple to collect them. Sorry we couldn't stop long to chat with you guys it was so tempting to stop for a pint or two at the Ring o' Bells, but we were already running late! Anyway Dave & Ann Marie seemed more than happy with their fenders when they fitted them on Legend and even posted a couple of good photos on their blog http://www.becominglistless.blogspot.com/

Robin Redbreast

Also whilst out on our last coal run we were joined by a new crew member, this very friendly robin. He hopped around and investigated the boat for quite some time, lets hope we see a bit more of this happy chap to brighten our winter days

Just a Quick Update

2011-11-20T14:32:00.000Z

Well not much time for blogging during the past couple of weeks so just a quick update.

My Sister Aileen has had her ups & downs, but unfortunately she's taken a turn for the worse & isn't really able to do much for herself at the moment. I went up to see her yesterday though & she's still able to smoke a fag & raise a smile!

We spent much of last week emptying Aileens house in Stockport which was a sad but necessary job. Then for the rest of the week we've been playing catch up with Ann Marie up to her eyes in paperwork and Brian changing the motor on the fuel pump & servicing Alton's engine.

We are now out delivering with Alton on the Macc this weekend. It's been very busy so far, so it looks like we won't make it to Whaley Bridge until tomorrow (Monday).

Kim, Mark & Pete with their Finished Fenders

2011-11-07T10:57:00.000Z

Pete Hitching His Button Fender

2011-11-07T10:07:00.000Z

Kim Hitching Her Button Fender

2011-11-07T10:03:00.000Z

Mark Assembling his Button Fender Core

2011-11-07T10:00:00.000Z

Kim & Pete Making their Button Fender Cores

2011-11-06T12:08:00.000Z

Mark, Pete & Brian Crowning their Side Fenders

2011-11-06T12:03:00.000Z

Autumn 2011 Fendermaking Course at Audlem Mill

2011-11-05T11:03:00.000Z

Last weekend we ran another of our fendermaking courses at Audlem Mill. We had 3 students this time, Kim from Essex, Pete from Malvern & Mark from nr Wolverhampton.

On Saturday morning after a brief introduction we got knotting, making a couple of side fenders by crowning the rope. We worked with Victory Black rope which is a staple spun polypropylene designed to look like tarred hemp, it's a lovely material to work with as it knots very well. With a little persuasion we all stopped work for a lovely hearty lunch of Chilli Con Carne with Apple Charlotte for pudding mmm!

Mid-afternoon we stopped crowning & started making the core for our button fenders. These where made using 36mm polypropylene rope which we bound into circular cheeses using the same binding knot we had taught in the morning.

On Sunday morning we completed making our cores making sure they where a good shape & well bound together including the chains. Then it was time for the hitching to commence. We carefully put the required numbers of half-hitches on the centre spine, making sure they were evenly spaced & with a consistent tension. Once again it was a battle to get people to stop work for lunch but in the end the temptation of Christine's Chicken wrapped in bacon with roast potatoes & veggies was too much to resist. The afternoon seemed to just fly by as we continued to hitch, learning where to drop stitches & how to splice in more rope. By the end of the day everyone had completed their buttons to a good standard and they were better than you see in many chandleries. We thoroughly enjoyed the weekend, our trainees were very keen to learn & it was a pleasure to pass on our skills to them. So a big thank you to Kim, Pete & Mark for being such a pleasure to work with and also to Peter & Christine at Audlem Mill for being such good hosts & feeding us so well.

Our next fendermaking course at Audlem Mill will be 3rd & 4th March 2012.

Alton on Bosley Locks

2011-10-17T21:54:00.001+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Clayton's Wooden Motor Pearl at Marston Salt Works T&M

2011-10-17T09:51:00.001+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Serving Reed Hotel Boats Oak & Ash

2011-10-16T19:01:00.000+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Wooden Working Boats Under Restoration nr Dutton, Top of T&M

2011-10-16T15:40:00.000+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Acacia & Dory at Anderton on the River Weaver

2011-10-15T11:28:00.000+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Alcor at Vale Royal Locks - River Weaver

2011-10-15T11:24:00.000+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Sandbach with a Little Towing on the Weaver

2011-10-14T21:23:00.000+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Steam Powered Narrowboat "Whistle Down the Wind" leaving Acton Bridge

2011-10-13T22:20:00.000+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Tug Kennet Leaving Acton Bridge

2011-10-13T22:19:00.001+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Series 1 Landies at Acton Bridge

2011-10-13T22:18:00.001+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Landy Fire Engine at Acton Bridge

2011-10-13T22:17:00.001+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Jim Taylor on Empress Leaving Acton Bridge

2011-10-13T22:15:00.001+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

ECW Bodied AEC Matador Bus Recovery Vehicle at Acton Bridge - My Favourite

2011-10-13T21:49:00.001+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Iconic Routemaster at Acton Bridge

2011-10-13T21:41:00.000+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Sentinel Steam Lorry at Acton Bridge

2011-10-13T19:48:00.001+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Our Godson Peter & Some Traction Engines at Acton Bridge

2011-10-13T18:35:00.000+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Geoff Bryant Playing in his Little Classic Speedboat at Acton Bridge

2011-10-10T23:42:00.001+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

George Boyle back on Alton's Tiller for a Run on the Weaver

2011-10-10T23:36:00.001+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Duker Parfield Winding at Acton Bridge

2011-10-10T23:31:00.000+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Boats Big & Small at Acton Bridge

2011-10-10T23:29:00.002+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Gypsy Caravan at Acton Bridge

2011-10-10T23:29:00.001+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Nightboating Through Brunner Mond Works at Wincham

2011-10-10T23:28:00.001+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Stour Passing Alton at Christleton

2011-10-10T23:26:00.001+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Alex Moving Some of the Load to Help us get Through the Scour in Chester Basin

2011-10-10T23:25:00.000+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Alton at Ellesmere Port Boat Museum

2011-10-10T23:23:00.000+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Showers! Wheelock = Out of Order, Red Bull = Out of Order, Anderton = Useless & Filthy - Thanks BW!

2011-10-10T23:21:00.000+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

I Love to use my GH Cooke Windlass on the Cheshire Locks

2011-10-10T23:13:00.000+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Empty Pound at Malkins Bank after Someone Left a Bottom Paddle up & Top Gate Open

2011-10-10T22:58:00.000+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Night Boating on the Cheshire Locks

2011-10-10T22:55:00.000+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

A Lovely Day for Bosley Locks

2011-10-10T22:54:00.000+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Alton on Marple Aqueduct

2011-10-10T22:53:00.001+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Alton Stuck Mid Channel nr Portland Basin

2011-10-10T22:52:00.001+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Our Indian Summer Trip!

2011-10-10T22:49:00.000+01:00

Well firstly apologies, it's been a while since we've posted, life has been a bit hectic & we've been too busy living it rather than writing about it. We have been away boating for nearly 3 weeks after collecting Alton from Ashton Packet Boat Company on Wed 21st September. We had a lot of ground to cover so it was quite a few early (5.30am) starts and late finishes (10pm ish) that got us to Ellesmere Port for the following Wednesday 28th September. We had run low on supplies by this point so we reloaded here on Thursday with diesel & solid fuels, making for a very bouncy journey back to Chester. Our friend Alex (nb bewitched) helped us up to Christleton, where we met Clayton's tarboat Spey at the top lock & had a brief chat with Ian Macc & Bob Lear.

A couple more long days with some wonderful weather, saw us going down the Anderton Boat Lift on Saturday morning and then heading down river to the Acton Bridge Steam Rally for the weekend. This is a lovely friendly & relaxed gathering of everything from steam powered narrowboat, barges, traction engines, lorries, landrovers & even a gypsy cavan and horse.

I'll try & post some more details of our return trip & a few photo's over the next few days.

Alton's Autumn Schedule

2011-09-12T11:42:00.000+01:00

Sat 10th to Sun 11th Sept:- Oakgrove (Macc) to Marple, Bugsworth & Whaley Bridge.
Mon 12th Sept:- Whaley Bridge to Oakgrove (Macc).
Tues 13 to Wed 14th Sept:- Oakgrove (Macc) to Marple, Romiley & Ashton under Lyne.
Wed 21st to Thurs 22nd Sept:- Ashton under Lyne to Romiley, Marple & Oakgrove (Macc).
Fri 23rd to Sat 24th Sept:- Oakgrove (Macc) to Marple, Bugsworth & Whaley Bridge.
Sun 25th to Thurs 29th Sept:- Whaley Bridge to Marple, Kidsgrove, Middlewich, Nantwich, Chester & Ellesmere Port.
Thurs 29th Sept to Sat 1st Oct:- Ellesmere Port to Chester, Middlewich, Anderton & River Weaver.
Sat 1st & Sun 2nd Oct:- Acton Bridge Steam Rally, Leigh Arms, River Weaver.
Mon 3rd Oct:- River Weaver, Dutton to Vale Royal & Anderton.
Tues 4th to Fri 7th Oct:- Anderton to Middlewich, Kidsgrove & Oakgrove (Macc).
Sat 8th to Sun 9th Oct:- Oakgrove (Macc) to Marple, Bugsworth & Whaley Bridge.
Mon 10th Oct:- Whaley Bridge to Marple & Oakgrove.
Sat 22nd to Sun 23rd Oct:- Oakgrove (Macc) to Marple, Bugsworth & Whaley Bridge.
Mon 24th to Tues 25th Oct: Whaley Bridge to Marple, Romiley & Ashton under Lyne.
Wed 26th to Thurs 27th Oct:- Ashton under Lyne to Romiley, Marple & Oakgrove (Macc).

Please note the above schedule is our plan but this can change due to traffic, stoppages or other activities outside our control. To ensure your delivery it is always best to place an order with us by phoning or texting us on 07791345004 or emailing us on nbalton102@yahoo.co.uk
Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Family First

2011-09-11T21:13:00.000+01:00

I know that this blog is for our business, but as most of our customers are like a big family to us, I thought I would update those that are interested on my Sister Aileen's progress.

Aileen has had a brain tumour for the past 11 years & over that time has had surgery & various sessions of treatments. Near the end of last year she decided to cease any further chemotherapy or radiotherapy as this just wasn't working. Since then her coordination & memory have gradually deteriorated, but she has been grateful for each day she has on earth. She has done a lot of charitable / volunteer work including running art classes & singing workshop & other activities through the Big Life Centre & other organisations in Stockport. We've had some fun times together too, celebrating our Birthdays & just chilling out together.

A fortnight ago Aileen had a bleed on the brain, followed by a stroke & was admitted to Stepping Hill Hospital. She was very ill, barely able to speak & very little memory. We were told there was little hope of improvement. Against the odds, slowly & surely she has improved. Last week she was able to return to my parents home on the Wirral, where we made the dining room into her bedroom & got a hospital bed etc. She is very happy to be back amongst her family.

On her first night home we all sat down around the table with curry & beer to celebrate my Brother Mike's birthday & Aileen's home coming. Since then Aileen has made some small improvement. She's able to walk a few steps & is eating much better.

Last week I returned home to my parents from Tuesday to Friday in order to help care for Aileen & give my Mum & Dad a break. Aileen continues to keep positive & is just grateful for each day, it was great to spend time with her & we had lots of laughs. I took her out in her wheelchair for some great walks down by the Mersey & we had loved reminiscing about our childhoods. On Friday we even got out for a lovely lunch at Garrett's Bistro in Bebington Village, whilst Mum & Dad got away for the day with friends.

Finally a big thank you to Ann Marie for holding the fort whilst I've been away. She's been a star, loading Alton, serving plenty of customers & sorting out lot's of other things that needed doing. So a big hug & THANKS Ann Marie.
Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Aileen a Super Sister

2011-08-26T22:06:00.001+01:00

We are planning on operating Alton from Oakgrove up to Whaley Bridge & back over the Bank Holiday weekend. However Brian's Sister Aileen (who some of you will know) has been admitted to hospital (after a long illness) & is really very poorly. So it may be that over the weekend or coming weeks we may have to abandon ship or change our schedule. So whilst we will try our best to avoid any disruption your patience & understanding would be much appreciated, as she really is a very special Sister.
Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Where did that week go?

2011-08-25T23:29:00.000+01:00

Well it's been a very busy week, even for us! We made it to into Chester as darkness fell on Friday evening after having fun convincing 2 other boats to do the Bunbury Staircase shuffle with us earlier in the afternoon. In Chester Brian checked out the Cellar Bar very near the canal (by the Old Harkers Arms) and was rewarded with excellent beers from Liverpool Organic (Iron Man) & Tatton (Blonde), friendly locals and a decent band.

On Saturday we made our way down Northgate Staircase (not too wet these days) and along to Ellesmere Port Boat Museum. After completing our deliveries we winded and had a fairly busy afternoon as we headed back to Christleton. That evening we met up with Brian's Brother Mike at the Bridge in (nr Tarvin Lock) for good Salopian beer & some excellent value food, unfortunately the band then struck up & it was too loud to hear ourselves think so we retired for a reasonably early night. Ann Marie managed to rouse herself early & set off south, at her first customer (Wine & Roses) we received cups of fresh coffee which was enough to shake Brian from his slumber. We made good progress to Barbridge & across the branch back to Middlewich. We had a final few customers in the town pound before tying up for the night below Big Lock. Decent real pubs in Middlewich seem to be getting a bit thin on the ground, so Brian thought he would grab a swift pint at the Narrowboat before a late tea. They looked to have a few cask ales on but on asking for Buttercombe Blonde, was told it was no longer on, but they didn't turn the pumpclip round grrrr! He settled for a pint of London Pride which was OK but nothing special.

Early Monday morning and it was Brian's turn to take the early shift, the sun was shining & it was a lovely morning to have the cut to yourself. We got busy around Marston & Anderton before getting a 2.15pm passage down the lift. On the river we went up into Northwich serving a few customers & then down to Saltersford & back to tie up in town for the night.

On Tuesday morning we set off about 7.30am & had our first customer at Hunts Lock before the Lockies had arrived. We had a few more customers in the reach above the lock including oiling up the GU motor Alcor. We then headed down stream, back through Hunts, Saltersford & to Dutton Locks with various deliveries on the way. We then managed to get back up the lift on the last passage of the day. From Anderton we headed north through the tunnels for our a few more customers before winding and finally tying up at Marston Salt Works as darkness fell. We stopped next to our friends Hew & Jenna & (Kizzy & Eva) on NB Meridian and joined them for drinks on deck & a catch up with each others news.

Wednesday morning saw us reloading Alton with diesel. We were finished by midday. Accompanying us on our way up to Wheelock was a fendermaking friend Chris on NB Cheshire Belle & at Middlewich we where joined by Alex (NB's Witchcraft & Bewitched), so Alex & Ann Marie worked Alton up the locks (thanks again Alex) whilst Brian stayed with Chris giving him some pointers on working single handed. At Wheelock we retired to the Cheshire Cheese in company with Chris and had a fendermakers convention along with Liz & another fendermaking Chris, so we had a pleasant evening getting knotted.

Up at 6am, there was a mist on the cut as we set of up the Cheshire Locks and after a long & busy day we returned to Oakgrove (Macc) at 10pm.

I've been writing this blog post on & off over the past hectic week, so although its not finished I'm posting it now before it get forgotten about!

Night all! Brian

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Some Goodbyes & a Beautifully Painted Water Can

2011-08-12T09:09:00.000+01:00

We set off from Red Bull Aqueduct about 7.30am & at least it wasn't raining yet! Our first customers were Peter & Mal on Midama. They'd recently returned from a final cruise on the Weaver & 4 Counties Ring and decided due to health issues to move back ashore after 18 years afloat. We had a lovely chat with them and Mal had been having a sort out & loaded us up with hats & scarfs, 2 old water jugs for Ann Marie's flowers as well as bottles of wine! We are so lucky to meet such lovely people in our job and we'll certainly miss Peter & Mal's banter & smiles.

We carried on down the hill with Liam & Kerry on the Fuel Boat Ariel also following behind, like buses you don't see a coal boat for ages & then 2 come along at once! The rain came in fits and starts, with the odd glimpse of the sun. We had customers at various intervals before finally arriving at Middlewich about 7pm, here we spied Jane Selkirk's & Mac's boat Hero. We tied up and Mac brought out our old water can which had been beautifully repainted by Jane. We stopped for a coffee & a chat with Jane & Mac and caught up with their news. Jane is a very talented painter & has decided now is the right time to retire & they are selling their wonderful 70ft boat 'Hero' (with Lister JP2 I think) so if you are in the Market for an excellent trad boat, just get in touch. After having a good chinwag we wished Jane & Macc all the very best in the next stage of their busy lives.

We set of again in the dusk through Middlewich (grabbing a bag of chips at the chippy on the way) and decided to keep plodding, finally tying up for the night at Church Minshull and so to bed.
Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

A Wet day on the Macc

2011-08-10T22:34:00.001+01:00

On Monday we returned from our holidays and got straight back to work on Alton. George, Mike,Chris & Terry had operated Alton over Sat to Monday from Oakgrove up to Whaley Bridge, their help really was much appreciated. Now it was our turn to boat back to base. Yesterday we had a pleasant day with plenty of customers on our way back down the Macc.

Today we've had a busy morning at Oakgrove re-loading Alton with supplies prior to setting of a bit before midday. We soon reached Bosley & were met by the rain & wind, ahh perfect timing! We had a reasonable run down the flight meeting boats at each of the first 6 locks. At lock 7 we met Phil from NB Aurora we had walked up to give us a hand down the locks.

The rain got heavier & heavier, but we still had a busy afternoon on the lower Macc. We finally tied by the aqueduct at Red Bull absolutely soaked through. Brian nipped to the Blue Bell (one of his favourite real pubs) for a swift pint of "Hop head" & we grabbed some tea before getting a much needed early night.

Tomorrow we head off down the locks to Middlewich.
Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Traditional Fishing Boats at Brehemont on the Loire

2011-08-09T08:03:00.000+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Winding up our Vacation

2011-08-07T23:12:00.000+01:00

We've had a wonderful week wending our way along the Loire, heading for the Brittany coast. We've visited some amazing Chateaux's and various museums including one containing a 2CV Sahara, an Ami M35 (you have to be a Citroen nut to appreciate one of these) an A Type 2CV and even a Steyr Puch Haflinger. One of the highlights though was a visit to a working windmill built in 1740. It was still in operation milling animal feed and flour. This wasn't a tourist attraction, but a real working mill & it was fascinating to talk to the owner about his work and the mechanisms of the mill. He let us clamber all over the place and it was fascinating.

Last night near Dinard we had a delicious farewell dinner & end of raid Soiree. It was a lovely evening and we were joined by other 2CV friends Annie & Dave (ex UK & Australia) who have now moved to Dinard as well as other 2CVGB friends Chris & Debbie, so a good time was had nattering & catching up on each others news.

This morning we awoke rather more bleary eyed than usual and after packing up we had a final communal breakfast. We said our goodbyes to all & started our journey back home.

A big THANK YOU! to George, Mike, Chris & Terry for they're help in operating Alton while we're been away enjoying ourselves, it really is very much appreciated.
Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Alton's August Schedule 2011

2011-08-05T15:09:00.001+01:00

The Picture above shows us on our holiday in the Loire Valley

Alton's schedule for August will be as follows.

Sat 6th - Mon 8th:- Oakgrove (Macc Br 49) to Whaley Bridge & Bugsworth return. Operated by George Boyle.

Wed 10th - Sat 13th: Oakgrove (Macc Br 49) to Ellesmere Port

Sun 14th - Tues 16th: Ellesmere Port to River Weaver

Wed 17th - Fri 19th: River Weaver to Oakgrove (Macc Br 49)

Sat 20th - Mon 22nd: Oakgrove (Macc Br 49) to Whaley Bridge & Bugsworth return

Sat 27th - Tues 30th (Bank Hol w/e): Oakgrove to Whaley Bridge & Bugsworth return.

Please note the above schedule is our plan, but this may change due to traffic or other circumstances outside our control. If you require supplies just give us a call on 07791345004 & we will make sure we don't miss you.
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A Nicely Matured 2CV Fourgounette

2011-08-05T13:10:00.002+01:00

OK George you have a point 2CV go rusty, whilst you just mature like fine French wine!
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Loitering Dans Le Loire

2011-08-04T21:46:00.002+01:00

We had a brilliant time at the 2CV World Meeting, Salbris, France. There were 2CV's of all types and ages as well as all the derivatives of Dyane's, Mehari's, Ami's, Van's in addition there were all sorts of very rave models such as Bijou, Citroneta, 4 wheel drive Sahara and many more. There was a great atmosphere at the meeting and it was so good to just wander around and chat with people from all around the world who share our passion for the "dueche". Our BWB van created quite a lot of interest and it was interesting to talk to a few Belgian 2CV experts.

The meeting finished on the Sunday and on Monday we set off with about 25 other Citroen's on "Raid Loire et Chateaux", which is a weeks tour of the Loire Valley organised by the local 2CV clubs. We are visiting various Chateaux, Wineries, Vineyards, and museums. So far we've driven some beautiful routes, toured some stunning Chateaux & tasted some lovely local wines. It's no surprise to learn that we've also managed to see a little of the areas waterways including the great aqueduct at Briare, which is maybe the French equivalent of our Pontcysyllte aqueduct and we've seen the traditional fishing boats on the Loire & it's tributaries.

Whilst we continue our holiday Graham & George will be operating Alton for us, they will be travelling from Oakgrove to Marple on Sat 6th Aug, then on the Upper Peak Forest to Bugsworth Basin & Whaley Bridge on Sun 7th, before returning down the Macc on Mon 8th. Please be nice to them as they may be a little rusty! :-)

Well we'd better get back to our wine.

Bon soir mes ami!
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The Original 1948 2CV (375cc / 9hp)

2011-07-29T13:43:00.000+01:00

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2CV Prototypes in the Museum

2011-07-27T23:26:00.001+01:00

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Fourgonnette to France

2011-07-27T23:20:00.001+01:00

It's been a busy few months for us & we were really looking forward to getting away on our holidays. Over the past few weeks we got our little orange Citroen van fettled and packed ready to attend the 2CV world meeting in Salbris, France http://www.2cvfrance2011.fr/index.php?lang=en.

After a pleasant & busy weekend round on the Macc & Upper Peak Forest over the 22nd to 24th we got back to base & did all our last minute jobs and packing. When the alarm went off at 4am on Monday morning we didn't want to get up. By 5.30 we were finally on the road and bimbling our way south. We had a fairly good run down with just the usual queues around Walsall & then again on the M25. At Dover we met up with our friends Dan & Emy in their red 2cv and made our way onto the ferry. We grabbed lunch and caught up with each others gossip on the journey over the Channel.

Once off the ferry we headed south for Amiens, arriving about 7pm at a welcome meeting organised by the local 2CV club, we got a very friendly welcome from the organisers with free camping at the local football ground. Here we met up with our other friends Young Andrew & Keith in the blue 2CV (Topple Junior) and David, Sarah & Nat in the brown VW Type 25 Camper. We cracked open the beers & Dan cooked us a lovely communal meal. We then sat around chatting & catching up until we couldn't keep our eyes open.

On Tuesday morning we de-camped and set off towards Salbris in a 4 car convoy, via the scenic route provided to us by our hosts. The route took us in a big arc around Paris, through some pretty villages and rolling countryside with lots of combine harvesters sweeping the fields. We found a great spot for a picnic lunch on the banks of the River Seine, we cannot keep away from the waterways for long and even got to see a big loaded barge heading towards Paris.

We made fairly leisurely progress south, finally arriving at the meeting site, Salbris at 7pm. We thought by now the queues should have died down as the meeting had been open since 10am. How wrong we were, we had pre-booked and paid for the meeting which meant that we would get priority entry. This entailed getting corralled into a holding field with a few thousand other 2CV's and being kept waiting there for 4 hours. By 11 O'clock we had enough & pitched our tents where we were & got out more beer & snacks.

This morning we finally got into the meeting, it was even more chaotic than we thought, the first place we set up camp, an irate Frenchman told us we were forbidden to camp there (there's now 100's of people camped there!). Anyway we finally found a reasonable spot to set up camp and made ourselves at home.

This afternoon we've wandered round the site, had a look around the excellent 2CV Museum, the old car display and the trade stands, constantly bumping into friends and acquaintances that invariably we hadn't seen for ages, so had lots of news to catch up on. By mid afternoon we had migrated to the bar and spent a very laid back afternoon drinking Jupilier and hanging out with friends. This evening we've taken it easy chilling out back at the campsite with another lovely meal of pasta and tomato sauce cooked by Dan & Keith. None of us had the energy to walk back to the bar and main stage (20 mins walk) so we've just sat about nattering. Despite the chaotic organisation upon our arrival the meeting does have a great buzz and we've really enjoyed a chilled out day with all 2CV friends.

I'll try and post a few more photos through the meeting.

Bon nuit!
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A Wet Weekend in Marple

2011-07-21T21:19:00.001+01:00

Last Friday morning with the sun beating down, I (Brian) decided to do an extra bit of boating & potter up to Marple for the weekend. It was a lovely day & sunscreen & hat were required. The canal was fairly busy & it was a crackin day to be out on the cut. I called in at Kerridge Boatyard & got an order for a set of victory black fenders from Tim at Bourne Boats ( http://www.bourneboatbuilders.co.uk/ ) so that would keep me busy knotting for the weekend. I had a few more customers before arriving at Marple that evening. As I tied up the rain arrived in force and decided to stay for most of the next few days.

On Saturday I had a few customers & a coffee & chin wag with Pete & Dave on New Horizons. In the evening Ann Marie came over to pick me up, so that we could attend a gig in Macc. The concert was at St Alban's Church Hall & was Tom Kitching's (Clayton's Tar boat Spey) band "Pilgrims Way" http://www.pilgrims-way.net/ with Gren Bartley http://www.tomandgren.co.uk/ as support. It was a brilliant night with some brilliant music, helped along with a real ale bar with 3beers from Bollington Brewery http://www.bollingtonbrewing.co.uk/ at only £2 a pint!

Sunday it rained, I stopped in the cabin as much as possible & hitched some fenders. Whilst I tried to stay dry I watched the crews of New Horizon & The Bell set off in the teaming rain with there compliments of passengers.

Monday the rain continued to lash it down. I pottered about till 10am but it showed no sign of letting up. I had quite a busy day and arrived back at Fools Nook that evening looking like a drowned rat with lots of soggy paperwork for Ann Marie to decipher. Ahhh the wonder of an English Summer!
Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Alton's New Deckboard Sign

2011-07-09T09:29:00.000+01:00

Anyone for "Smokeless Diesel"? It's really good!

Well we now have our new deckboard sign, it's surprising how small it is as Alton has a lower than original height cratch which doesn't leave a lot of room for signwriting. We believe that Alton first had this height of cratch when she worked in Willow Wren's NW fleet. It was not uncommon for working boats to have to dismantle their cratches to enter small factory or colliery arm for loading. But Big Woolwich's with standard sized cratches could not fit under some bridges in the North Midlands especially on the T&M around Stoke when running light, so boats running regularly in that area where modified with a lower cratch.
Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

The Bell Operating as a Waterbus at Marple Locks Festival

2011-07-04T16:14:00.000+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

The Hundson Hunslett Loco in Joel's Hold

2011-07-04T16:12:00.000+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Joel at Marple

2011-07-03T19:44:00.000+01:00

The wooden motor boat Joel attend Marple Locks Festival, complete with a narrow gauge railway Hudson Hunslett loco as cargo in the hold.
Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Marple Locks Festival 2011

2011-07-03T19:38:00.000+01:00

We had a very pleasant weekend attending the Locks Festival at Marple. The Sun shone & boaters and the general public were out in force. It was great for us to remain tied up whilst customers came to us for a change.

There was plenty going on with boat trips, guided walks and lots of stalls & displays in the park. Brian demonstrated fendermaking and we chatted to lots of people about Alton & our way of life, a lot of people were very surprised to see a narrow boat still working regularly. We had quite a few sales and have hopefully made more people aware of our business and what we do.

We've had some enjoyable (and rather late) evenings chatting & catching up with friends over drinks either on the towpath or up at the Ring 'o Bells. Tomorrow we will head back down the Macc to meet up with George & Irene on NB Sandbach at Fools Nook.
Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Alton's Schedule July 2011

2011-07-03T18:18:00.000+01:00

Monday 1st: Oakgrove (Macc) to Marple
Sat / Sun 2nd/ 3rd: Marple Locks Festival
Mon 4th: Marple to Oakgrove (Macc)
Fri 8th: Road deliveries to Ashton & Staylebridge
Sat 9th: Oakgrove (Macc) to Marple
Sun 10th: Marple to Bugsworth & Whaley Bridge, return to Marple
Mon 11th: Marple to Oakgrove
Wed 20th: Road deliveries to Kidsgrove, Middlewich, Nantwich, Chester, Ellesmere Port, Anderton & River Weaver
Fri 22nd: Oakgrove (Macc) to Marple
Sat 23rd: Marple to Bugsworth & Whaley Bridge, return to Marple
Sun 24th: Marple to Oakgrove (Macc)

Note; the above schedule is subject to change depending on traffic & customer volumes. If you require supplies please contact us to ensure delivery
Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

A Few more Photos

2011-06-30T12:31:00.000+01:00

Ian Mac Steering Spey at Middlewich

Rebekah Fuller SteeringSpey at Middlewich

Pearl at Marston

Re-fueling Tudor Rose Cruising Club Boats at Anderton

Alton on the Anderton Boat Lift with the Beautiful Cruiser Jaqueline

Deliveries at Dutton Locks on the Weaver

Cherries Picked at Dutton Locks, Mmmm!

Mel and his Colleague operating Hunts Lock

Proceed at Pimblott's Old Yard

Alton Meeting GUCCCo Royalty Motor Duke on the Weaver

Big Northwich Stirling on the T&M

Tug Kennet at Dutton Dock

British Salt Works, Middlewich

Alton Heading back up the Cheshire Locks

Ann Marie Hiding from the Rain at Hassall Green

A Few Photos of our Latest Travels

2011-06-29T23:54:00.000+01:00

We've had a very hectic month (even for us) so haven't had much chance to catch up on our blogging, but have managed a few tweets! Anyway as a stop gap we will post up a selection of photos of our latest trip to Nantwich, Chester, Ellesmere Port, Middlewich, River Weaver & Preston Brook.

Swans & Cygnetts on Nest nr Kidsgrove

Evening on the Cheshire Locks

Night Boating on the Cheshire Locks

Tench at Wheelock

Sweden at Wheelock

Swans & Cygnets near Chester

Refuling Radiant in Chester

Alton Arriving at The Port

Apprentices & Volunteers having fun in the Bell Canoes

At the Port

Restoration Work on Mendip

Brian Oiling up Mendip

Peter and Brian Unclothing Alton

Peter helping with the Brasses

Peter at the Tiller

Run to Ellesmere Port & Middlewich Folk & Boat Festival - June 2011

2011-06-20T23:21:00.000+01:00

On Monday morning we finished re-loading Alton about 10am and set of south down the Macc. We had a good run down Bosley with very few other boats around. We had regular stops along the lower Macc, reaching Hardingswood junction about 6pm. We started to make our way down the Cheshire Locks, seeing only one other boat moving all the way down to Lock 60 near Malkins Bank where we tied up in the Moonlight.

We wanted to make sure that we made good time to Ellesmere Port so we set off about 6.30am and had the locks to ourselves all the way down to Wheelock. We stopped for water & showers at Wheelock & carried on refreshed. We had more deliveries art Crows Nest & where in Middlewich before lunch (so no chips). The weather was glorious sunshine & we had a great trip along the Nee Cut over to Barbridge, with few delays on the locks. At the junction we turned left towards Nantwich, but had a fairly quiet run before we winded after the aqueduct. We decided to keep plodding on down the wide locks and finally tied up at the Shady Oak nr Beeston at 10.30. Brian was not impressed to find the pub had shut already as he had set his sites on a pint.

Another early start saw Ann Marie on the tiller & Brian snoring in bed. He managed to rouse himself before the next locks (just). We shared the locks with the trip boat for the disabled "Rainbows End". We had a good run sharing the workload between the 2 crews. Rainbows End tied up at Cow Lane in Chester & we continued down Northgate Staircase on our own. We tied up in Chester Basin & stopped for fish & Chips for lunch, what luxury. Just as we finished, Mike & Cath Turpin & crew arrived on Radiant & Regulus, on there way to the Braunston Rally. We fueled up Radiant & they headed off up the staircase. We had a busy afternoon on the Wirral canal & arrived at the Port about 5.30pm, it was great to have an early finish. We were warmly welcomed by the museum time who were celebrating the apprentices passing out. We were invited to join them & shared their delicious food of salads & burgers etc whilst watching the apprentices & volunteers canoeing & zorbing as well as musical entertainment from Tom Kitching & Gren. After all that we retired to the Thomas Telford Pub to meet up with Brian's brother & sister Mike & Fiona, it was great to catch up with them.

Next morning the rain was pouring down, but Dave & the team dragged Mendip out from under the shed so that we could fill her big boliner tank with diesel. This used the last of our supplies, so we waited patiently at the Wharf for our tanker delivery from stanlow. Shortly before noon it arrived & we could then re-commence our refuelling duties on the museum boats.

Once we had finished & the sun had come out to play we set off back for Chester. We had another busy afternoon and one customer even supplied us with sandwiches & donuts for lunch. From Chester we set of up the wide lock on our own, it was very quiet with few other boats on the move. Our aim was to get back to the Shady Oak & we arrived there at 10pm to find our last customer of the day waiting patiently. Brian had a bit better luck this time & managed a swift pint of Castle Rock before last orders.

Next morning we had another early start before stopping at Calverly for a shower, only to find there was no hot water bbbrrr! It was a bit chaotic at Barbridge Junction as boats in different directions hailed us for fuel. We had a slow journey back across the Middlewich Branch, but finally made it to Wardle Lock, where we met up with Alison, Rupert & Peter. We were looking after our Godson Peter for the weekend whilst his Mum & Dad went to Scotland for a wedding. Alison & Rupert helped us down the first 2 locks, then Matt Parrot & Rebekah Fuller helped on the next 2, which saw us down in the Town Pound. We tied up in front of Saturn & Thea on the Town Wharf, along with Sweden & Tench. After saying hello to the other boater we quickly clothed up & headed of to the boaters get together at the Boars Head. It wasn't as well organised or attended as previous years but we still had a very pleasant evening catching up with other boaters & Peter kept everyone entertained playing his made up game of a cross between shuv 'appeny & air hockey, using items varying between a 2 pence piece and a pan of hotpot on a tray with Bills hat on top! Suffice to say a good night was had by all!
Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Atkinson Lorry with 5 Gardner Engines on Board at GER Bugsworth

2011-06-15T12:46:00.000+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Gardner Engined Landrover at GER Bugsworth

2011-06-15T12:45:00.001+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Ferrous at GER Bugsworth

2011-06-15T11:00:00.001+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Gardner 3LW in Hyskier at GER Bugsworth

2011-06-15T10:57:00.001+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Putnal Field at GER Bugsworth

2011-06-15T10:55:00.000+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Garner 2LW in NB Magic @ GER Bugsworth

2011-06-15T10:54:00.001+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Alton at Gardner Engine Rally Bugsworth

2011-06-15T10:48:00.001+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Whaley Water Weekend & Gardner Engine Rally at Bugsworth

2011-06-14T18:58:00.000+01:00

We reloaded Alton with diesel and solid fuel on Tuesday & Wednesday and on Thursday morning we set of heading North. We were running the round a couple of days early so it was a bit quieter than usual. The water levels were about 4" down and as we also had a reasonable load on we soon started getting stuck in the bridge holes around Macc. Other boats were also struggling, including one which couldn't get onto the water point in Macc. We phoned the BW office at Red Bull & they agreed to feed in more water. The situation gradually improved over the next 2 days. The weather was a mixed bag and we had some bright sunshine & the odd short heavy shower. We tied up for the night in Marple and had a pint at the Ring 'o Bells before tea.

On Friday morning we had to serve some customers in the arm near Marple top lock, we really struggled to reverse back into the arm stirring up the silt. With the water levels still down a bit we stuck hard in the first lift bridge on the Peak Forest Canal & had to be helped through by the crew of a following boat bow hauling us. We continued on to Whaley Bridge before tying up at Bugsworth where preparations were in hand for the Gardner Engine Rally. Brian went for a wander around looking at some of the engines & chatting to the boaters. We then retired to the Navvy for a pint or 2, where they had on Abbeydale Dalmatian which was delicious and a very good brew from Whim Ales at only £2 a pint. We dragged ourselves away from the bar and returned to the boat for our tea.

On Saturday morning we where up and away by 7am (well Ann Marie was, Brian was still lazing in bed). We tied up in Whaley Basin for the Whaley Water Weekend and where soon joined by George Boyle on Sandbach. We had a pleasant day chatting with the public & customers and handing out our leaflets & cards. There was plenty for people to see and do including free boat trips, classic cars, stationary engines, fun fair and all sorts of stalls for local groups, charities & small businesses.

Towards the end of the afternoon we returned to Bugsworth where it was very busy & a bit chaotic with boats all moored around the winding hole & the wind blowing down the valley. We served a few more customers & had a last look round the engines on show before heading back down the Peak Forest Canal to Marple.

Sunday morning started bright & breezy. We had a fairly busy time around Poynton before the dreaded rain came down. It lashed it down for the rest of the day & we both took it in turn to steer / get dry in the cabin. By 6pm we where back at Oakgrove ready to reload with a couple more tons of supplies ready for our run to Ellesmere Port, Middlewich & River Weaver. By the time we had finished we looked & felt like drowned rats. We were glad to be able to get a shower before grabbing some tea and a good nights rest!
Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Alton's Schedule - June 2011

2011-06-09T23:46:00.001+01:00

2nd - 3rd:- Oakgrove (Macc) to Etruria
4th - 5th:- Etruria Canal Festival SOT
6th:- Etruria to Oakgrove (Macc)
9th - 10th:- Oakgrove (Macc) to Bugsworth & Whaley Bridge
11th:- Gardner Rally & Whaley Water Weekend
12th - 15th:- Whaley Bridge to Ellesmere Port (via T&M & Shroppie)
15th to 17th:- Ellesmere Port to Middlewich
18th to 19th:- Middlewich Folk & Boat Festival
19th to 21st:- Middlewich to Preston Brook & River Weaver
21st to 24th:- River Weaver to Oakgrove (Macc) (via T&M)
25th to 26th:- Oakgrove (Macc) to Whaley Bridge & Bugsworth
27th:- Whaley Bridge to Oakgrove

The above schedule is subject to change depending on traffic, to ensure we don't miss you, give us a call or text on 07791 345004.
Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Pottering about in the Potteries - Etruria Festival 2011

2011-06-08T22:51:00.000+01:00

On Thursday 2 June we set off down the Macc on a glorious afternoon. We had a few customers to serve before the top of Bosley and then caught a few more with a bit of in-flight refuelling for a couple of boats on the locks.

We reached the bottom about 4pm after a reasonable run down the flight. We had a few more deliveries to do at Buglawton, Congleton and Scholar Green before tying up at Red Bull Aqueduct. Here we met up with George and Irene Boyle on Sandbach. We had a few drinks on the boats and a catch-up.

We had an early start (6.45am) with Sandbach to try and get the first passage through the tunnel. The levels were a few inches down on this pound and Brian didn't quite get round Hardingswood Junction and gave NB Buccaneer a bit of a bump, Sorry!!! We arrived at the tunnel about 7.15am and found ourselves about 5th & 6th in the queue with David Lowe on Swallow up at the front. The tunnel was smokey and a bit slow going with the levels being down but we plodded on and got to Etruria at about 10.00am where Blossom on Darley helped up tie-up.

We pottered round and watched the other boats arriving and Brian spent some time clearing a load of rubbish of Lindsays prop. It was good to see a few familiar faces including Henry Johnson on Perch and it was nice to later see him back at the tiller of Lindsay as I think he was the boats first steerer.

We watched Jo & Keith arrive on Hadar and later had a chat with them.

That evening all the boaters gathered with our tables and chairs on the grass to enjoy a fish and chip supper (organised by Steve, Andrew, Dawn etc) and then settled down to a few drinks and a natter.

The weekend was good fun, Brian demonstrated fendermaking as part of the WOW activities for children and there were lots of visitors and people to chat to. On Saturday Roger & Teresa Fuller (Ibex) were presented with the Moorcroft Vase for the best turned out working boat, which was well deserved. On Saturday evening we had another boaters get together for an excellent curry night.

Sunday seemed to fly by, the weather had turned a bit showery but it didn't dampen our spirits. We had a few customers to diesel up before we left including working boats Sweden and Swallow. We then had a busy evening serving customers as we made our way back to Harecastle Tunnel Southern Portal where we tied up for the night with Sandbach.

On Monday morning we were in the tunnel before 8.00am and soon back on the Macc. At Red Bull Aqueduct we passed FMC Elk waiting to go on the slip to repair a damaged rudder.

We met plenty of boats coming down the Macc and had a few more customers, before stopping to do a bit of shopping at Hightown. In the afternoon we buttied up the Bosley Locks with George and Irene on Sandbach and enjoyed another lovely sunny afternoon.

We all tied up at Oakgrove and retired to the Fools Nook pub http://www.foolsnook.com/ for some good beer & wine and an excellent, well earned meal. A lovely way to top-off a great weekend!

May Bank Holiday Schedule 2011 and Etruria Festival

2011-05-24T21:03:00.000+01:00

Sat 28th May 2011: Oakgrove to Marple
Sun 29th May 2011: Marple to Whaley Bridge, Bugsworth
Mon 30th May 2011: Bugsworth to Bollington
Tues 31st May 2011: Bollington to Oakgrove

Thurs 2nd June 2011: Oakgrove to Redbull Aqueduct
Fri 3rd June 2011: Red Bull Aqueduct to Etruria
Sat 4th and Sun 5th June 2011: Eturia Festival
Mon 6th June 2011: Etruria to Oakgrove

As always the above schedule is our plan, but sometimes due to traffic or other circumstances outside our control it may vary slightly. Suffice to say that if you need supplies, please if possible call or text us on 07791345004 or email us on nbalton102@yahoo.co.uk or tweet us at "coalboat"

Ann Marie sitting down on the Job for a Change whilst topping up Nirvana

2011-05-15T11:08:00.000+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

After 8 months still no working Ground Paddle on Marple Lock 5. It OK BW are Aware!

2011-05-15T08:02:00.000+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Hmmm, there was a wall above Hydebank Tunnel Portal. I Wonder Where it's Gone Now?

2011-05-15T07:55:00.000+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Alton Stuck in Hydebank Tunnel Portal Again!

2011-05-14T23:10:00.000+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Roses & Castles.

2011-05-12T16:00:00.000+01:00

Well Steve has now finished the graining & decorating of Alton's back cabin, very smart it looks too. We've still got a few little jobs to do but the end of the Marathon session of works looks to be nearing completion. A big thank you to Steve & the team at Ashton Packet for all their hard work.

We set of from Ashton at lunchtime and after a few deliveries around Portland Basin, we are now heading up the Lower Peak Forest Canal. Hopefully we will get up Marple Locks this evening. Then tomorrow we are loading at Whaley Bridge before heading of to Bugsworth & New Mills. On Saturday we plan to make deliveries from Marple to Bollington. On Sunday we will run from Bollington, through Macclesfield to Oakgrove, Br 49.
Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Kennet Safely tied up at Frodsham Wharf

2011-05-11T23:15:00.000+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Self-unloading Coal Ship on MSC

2011-05-11T23:13:00.000+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Tankers at Stanlow on MSC

2011-05-11T23:12:00.000+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Kennet pushing it's way out of the small lock at Eastham on MSC

2011-05-11T23:11:00.000+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Rake at Work on the Mersey at Eastham

2011-05-11T23:10:00.000+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals

Dredger at Work on the Mersey at Eastham

2011-05-11T23:08:00.000+01:00

Renaissance Canal Carrying - keeping carrying on the canals