Rain and the Okefenokee Swamp

Left Yelvertofot area and headed towards the ultimate destination of Foxton Locks - knew we couldn't do it comfortably in one day. Headed towards the Welford Arm, one of the prettiest journeys seen so far: really beautiful countryside, farmland and surrounding copses. Lots of woodland and serenity; came across very few fellow travelling boats.

Decided to take a detour down the Welford Arm - Jan calling me Tits Magee going across the Okefenokee Swamp. Moored at Welford; tow path closed directly to village so had to go round the small marina to The Wharf Inn (again, good food). In marina, wow, amazing species and variety of fish seen lurking in the waters: jack pike under the pontoon, huge carp, loads of bream. Not being a course fisherman but a nature watcher (Jan too) had to watch this spectacle! Lots of boats moored, some short-term, some long so roped up under some over-hanging trees. In the night rained heavily so in the morning, was not sure whether it was still pouring down or if was dripping off trees - the latter proved the case.

Following morning moved onto North Kilworth for the necessary pump-out. Helpful people.

Then to Husbands Bosworth Tunnel wondering whether the tunnel light would hold out for the 1166 yards - it did!! Jan still fixated by seeing real live bats: none seen!

Meandered to top of Foxton flight where we met Pat and Tracey on nb Tilley heading to Market Harborough (if anyone comes across them say hello from us as they were such friendly folk). Having seen the piscatorial species the night before. It was amazing to see a red kite flying freely and so low you could almost count its feathers!

Jan, Master of Foxton

Moored above Foxton, Jan woke up in the middle of the night trying to rescue the windlass (she had apparently lost in the lock in her nightmare of going down the staircase) - new experience for us going 'down'.  BUT: volunteer Fraser to the rescue -  another volunteer who helped us through the initial passage until he was sure we knew what we were doing (small hope but all went well).  Spot tethered on boat at Foxton so she had to stop on the boat with me. She sat between my legs trembling every time we descended into a lock. I'm not sure I blame her the Foxton locks are bloody deep (see photo).

Deep Locks at Foxton

Next through Saddington Tunnel with the confidence that the tunnel light worked previously - not this time!  Got about 2-thirds through and all went dark.  Fortunately got new batteries for torch so managed to get through without any problems.

Stopped for provisions at Fleckney, good Co-op with other facilities (including pub!!)  Now moored just above bridge 74.

Home made fried rice tonight! Yum!