Moored in Leicester

River scenery near Birstall

Again the weather was overcast as we set off at 9:25.  Our first stop was Leicester Marina a mile or so upstream where we emptied the waste tank and filled up with 115 litres of diesel which should last us about 5-6 weeks.  Half an hour latrer we were on our way again towards Leicrster city centre.  Despite us being within the city limits the scenary visible from the canal is very rural.  In the photograph the trees to the right hide a row of houses.

Old factory, now flats

Moored in Leicester

Further on the waterside greenery is replaced by old industrial buildings.  We were held up at the final lock by CRT who were undertaking a waterways survey using a boat equipped with SONAR.  The team consists of 5 people who cover the whole country.  By 13:30 we had reached Friar Mills, a new office development alongside the canal where the local council has recently set up pontoon moorings for visiting boaters.  On our journey we had reports that the moorings were full but we were lucky to find one free just long enough for the boat.

We will stay in this area until late Saturday or Sunday.  I have an Open University exam on Friday and also we are in great need of 4-5 days worth of groceries and to rerplenish our wine cellar.

Today: 5.43 miles, 5 locks, 3 hours 55 mins