Spring is here

We are planning a trip to Llangollan. It’s a pretty straightforward trip from Stourport involving 3 canals-Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal, Shropshire Union Canal and the Llangollan canal (Originally called the Ellesmere canal). In the summer the last section of the canal to Llangollan is very busy with hire boats. By going at this time of year we should miss most of the rush and the difficulties that can occur in mooring in Llangollan. Matthew and Kerry will meet us on the route along with Emily and Chris. I also have to fit in with a couple work days and a trip to Bristol mid trip.

The Llangollan canal is a canal of contrasts. It starts off on the mellow Cheshire plain with its herds of Fresian cattle. A flight of locks at Grindley Brook near Whitchurch take you into the remote area of Whixal Moss before coming to the idiosyncratic town of Ellesmere (Not to be confused with Ellesmere Port on the Manchester Ship canal). Then its through the deserted border country between Shropshire and Wales before the mountains start to appear at Chirk and the canal crosses the mighty aquaducts at Chirk and Pontcysyllte before becoming very narrow prior to entering Llangollan, high above the town.

So this plan bought us to Stourport by the No 3 bus from Kidderminster. Us pretty full but found a seat next to a small chap with sallow skin. "You better sit down its dangerous to stand" he said. I sat next to him; "Going to have a few Whiskeys when I get home" he said. "Think that factory is about to close" he added. "Like that pub "The Wrens" been closed for a while" "Never mind you still have a few carpet factory's going" I said. "Not what they were" he replied. "Sugar beat factory has closed too"  We then had a discussion on Capital Punishment. "Think I fancy a drink as well" I said.

 So this is it; setting off on our spring trip 2013. 45 gallons of fuel, water tanks full, gas on board for cooking and its through the first lock, about 300 yds is all thats planned for today. Thi is the first time Stourbridge Lion has moved since a trip to Stourbridge last October.