Up early, kettle on, tea made, side hatch opened, grab stick and beat back the invading ducks. The carefully planned bird attack took the form of a pincer movement, with a drake coming in through the stern door and a duck (with drake back-up) through the side hatch. Fortunately they had underestimated our fire power. Cry "havoc and unleash the dogs of war!" and Spot came flying out of the bedroom and drove them back into the cut.

Slow start from Alrewas mooring although preceded by visit to local butcher (Coates - has own abattoir and sells only locally produced meat of very high quality) to ensure we don't starve on our journey.

Misty rain developed but being sure Tits Magee would take no notice of inclement weather we set off; the weather improved and became brighter and warmer as the day wore on.

Fradley Junction by 2pm, the Mucky Duck by 2:15pm. Jan left me spouting bollocks in the pub to take Spot for a walk. Back to Tilly May topped up with 4 pints of Abbott Ale. Fell asleep while Jan again took Spot for a walk.

Lamb and mint pie in the pub for tea (too late to BBQ steaks bought earlier from Coates): highly recommended top pub grub, washed down with more Abbott Ale. Life is hard!

I have included a few photos taken early this morning at Alrewas.