Droitwich - new waters and an eventful day

 To complete yesterday's saga of the vibration.   Although RCR did not confirm that a mechanic was on his way one turned up in the late afternoon. He quickly confirmed that our problems were due to the engine vibrating and was able to adjust the mount which had been repaired when the engine was serviced a couple of weeks ago.  But he suspected that this would only be a partial solution as the propshaft may have been bent when the propellor hit a log.  However he advised that the problem probably would not get worse and we should be safe for our planned river trip.

So when we set off in the morning we were listening carefully for rattling noises.  Although still  occasionally audible they were much quieter.  So we are now confident about being able to continue ur journey as planned.

Turning onto the Droitwich Canal

After a couple of miles we reached Hanbury Junction were our cruise took us west onto the Droitwich canal.   This canal was only fully restored 10 years ago and was not open on our previous visit to the area.  So it's a new canal to add to our list.

Droitwich Top Lock

It starts with 3 deep locks followed by a 2 lock stair case.  A further single lock then takes the canal to the M5 where a very low tunnel passes beneath the motorway. Although Densie could just pass through without hitting the roof the driver has to crouch down barely able to see far enough ahead to steer the boat.  Beyond the M5 the canal enters the town of Droitwich.

One significant lock remained.  When we opened the bottom gates we were confronted with the sight of the boat ahead of us firmly struck in the mud some distance from the towpath.  Taking care not to get stuck ourselves we were eventually able to pull him into the main channel. Further delay was caused a quarter of a mile further on when we met a trip-boat blocking the canal having broken down. 

There followed 3 swing bridges across the canal each of which had to be opened and then closed after we passed though.  Finally at 13:30 we reached the visitor moorings where we intend to spend a couple of nights so that we can explore the interesting-looking town,  stock up with groceries and fill up with water for the first time in over a week.

4 hours cruising, 3.78 miles, 8 locks, 3 swing bridges.