Fradley.

                     

Once again we were cruising along under blue skies past Lichfield Cruising Club H.Q. and the lovely old signpost marking Huddlesford Junction.

Ethel No 1091.

The new marina was open at Streathay, but we could only see two boats in it. Streathay Wharf were advertising their diesel at 92p per litre, then we were on tick-over past the linear moorings right next to the traffic thundering along the A38. just before Bridge 88 a board on the side of the canal stated that the pretty cottage there was to be for sale next year with 3 reception+4 bedrooms, double garage and adjoining 2.75 acres of garden. A very desirable looking residence indeed!

 

When we arrived at Fradley to moor there was a lady sat on the towpath spinning on a very neat little spinning wheel. We contacted out friend Jan and she came round the following day for coffee and a long catch-up chat as a year had passed since we saw her last. She was telling us about all the little improvements she and her husband have made to their narrow-boat which is now 10 years old. We always look forward to seeing her whenever we pass by. We went for a snack in the cafe in the old BW Yard where we took the last table for two! The place was very busy with boaters and rambles calling in. Just after we left for a walk around the nature reserve we had thunder and lightning and the heavens opened. Luckily we were able to find a dry spot under the trees to take cover and keep dry. I then perused the lovely art and craft gallery next to the Swan Inn, without buying anything.