The original idea for today was to cruise up to Aldersley junction, turn and then call in at Limekiln Chandlery in Compton for diesel, a bottle of gas and a pumpout. First thing in the morning the red light for the holding tank came on to indicate that it was full. This meant we definately needed a pumpout today. A check on Limekiln’s website confirmed what I had thought – they dont open on Sundays! So a quick change of plan. We winded just below Dimmingsdale lock and headed back towards Kinver where there is a DIY pumpout machine.

When we got to Bratch there were two boats coming up. Neither of the two crews seemed to be very confident so we helped them up and then went down ourselves. As we left the bottom of the flight it started to rain, not a good omen for our (delayed) barbeque! The weather stayed grey and drizzly until late afternoon and then started to brighten up. After a breakfast stop below Botterham staircase we plodded onto Kinver where we did the pumpout then moored up on the visitor’s mooring below the lock.

A visit to Kinver high street for a bit of shopping then we sat out on the towpath with Pimms and Gin & Tonic for a while before lighting the barbecue (at last). By the time the steaks were ready it was chilling off a bit so we ate inside. This is supposed to be June, but the weather is more like March!