Chirk Tunnel and Aqueduct

After the bright sunshine of yesterday, today started dull, the weather forecast promised heavy rain in the afternoon which was promptly delivered. We decided to pull pins early to avoid the rain and made steady progress covering 6 miles and two locks before the heavens opened. The highlight of the day without a doubt was Chirk aqueduct. Hardly warranting a mention in the guidebooks, this aqueduct,  in its own right would be a wonder anywhere else on the canal system if it wasn't for the fact that it is virtually next door to the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct.

Traversing the Chirk aqueduct was an experience in itself but was also a taster for Jan as she is petrified of heights and was not looking forward to going over the "big one".  As the view from Chirk bridge was so fantastic, I think the fear will be overcome - she may not be lying belly down in the bowels of TM for the Pontcysyllte aqueduct after all!  Had a bit of bother with Spot when we entered the tunnel following the aqueduct: normal slowing down of engine signifies her being able to get off the boat which she promptly did.  Then, realising a tunnel was in front and all boats lights switched on, she refused to get back on aboard.  Dragged ignominiously by the scruff and taken below, she sat like a quivering leaf until normality resumed and she could come back into open air.

The Rail Bridge next to Chirk Aqueduct

The Rail Bridge next to Chirk Aqueduct

View from Chirk Aqueduct

We have now moored up between the two tunnels waiting out the rain and plan to cross the Pontcysyllte aqueduct in the morning.

We have been out on TM for almost 3 weeks now. During that time we have gradually changed our priorities. Things that, 3 weeks ago seemed important don't seem so important now. We spend most of the day with a smile on our faces. Sometimes we go to a pub and have a chat with the locals, sometimes we stop in the middle of nowhere. We always have time to chat to other canal folk. Everyone has a story to tell. Most of the time we are asleep by 9pm and up by 6am. Spot has turned feral and comes and goes as she pleases. In 3 weeks we haven't had a cross word with each other, or anybody else for that matter. We stand on the stern of TM and watch the world drift by. At this moment Wales is 1000 shades of green. The fields are lush and the cattle fat with grass. The canal-side towns and villages have great character, most have not been spoiled by ill thought out developments. Some still have village shops and butchers where you can buy local produce. Even Stoke on Trent was a pleasure to cruise through.

As I write this the rain has abated and blue sky can be seen through the side hatch. It looks like tomorrow will be a fine day. Life is Good!