Penkridge to Cross Green.

Largest family we have seen so far.

Hi Friends.

A dry day today, although the black clouds did roll over just didn't deposit anything on us. For us this was a shortish day, but still enjoyable. First lock of six today was Filance Lock and not a soul to be seen, mine you it was only 8.10 am. We then climbed the locks on our way to Gailey where the shop in the old toll house was open at the lock. The toll house was where the toll keeper lived. I wonder what they charged the boats in the old days?

The canal twists and turns, which shows the age of the canal. It is not a vastly populated area along the stretch, so we had lovely views across the fields.
As we approached Slade Heath Bridge, I noticed this pretty white duck asleep on top of the hedge, whilst the old man slept on the hard ground. This duck clearly had her priorities right lol.
On the other side of Slade Heath Bridge we came across these young people playing in Kayaks, they all seemed to be enjoying themselves. We let them know there was nothing behind us, so they could go on their way, which they were grateful for.

We then stopped at the Fox & Anchor, Cross Green for tonight, so we can get an early start tomorrow morning through the narrows before Autherley junction. We will be exploring Coven after lunch.