And off we go

So, having had a great night out with friends Wayne and Emma (Smiths Bistro, Leigh - highly recommended) we eventually pulled pins on Sunday afternoon and commenced our leisurely run to the Trent and Mersey. Of course, this means a trip over much travelled areas of the Bridgewater Canal before we plunge into Preston Brook Tunnel, probably towards the end of the week (if anyone from Peel Group is reading, we will definitely be gone by Sunday, unless we have a "problem" and have to stay somewhere really picturesque for an extra day or so...).
Given that we rarely move for more than a couple of hours at a time (just enough to charge the batteries) we made our way to Boothstown Marina and managed to snag a spot outside The Moorings pub and settled in for the evening. We hadn't been down here for five weeks or so and at that time we were "clocked" as having a C&RT licence only and reminded of our status as visitors, only allowed to stay on the canal for seven days. So, it came as no surprise to see that numerous boats around us had Peel Group warning notices attached to them. Don't they know they can get a Bridgewater licence for a mere £40 per week? Yes, you can stay on the Bridgewater for the eye watering sum (pro rata) of two grand a year! Of course, you could argue that it is people leaving their unregistered boats where they don't belong that has lead to this hardened attitude...
Anyway, having lunched with Charlotte at the pub we headed off again, stopping to use the facilities at Worsley. Worsley is a favourite of ours, with good walks and plenty of eating options but we weren't staying today as the run from Boothstown was simply too short.

A rather wonky Worsley Packet House!

As happens so often with us, we had a couple stop as they walked past to ask us a myriad of questions about the boat, the lifestyle, yadda yadda yadda. The lady hopped on board for a quick tour which prompted another barrage of questions but, eventually, we managed to get moving again through, to my mind, the dreariest stretch of canal we are likely to encounter at Monton and Patricroft. Just increase the revs and get it over with!
Once over the Barton Swing Aqueduct (Elaine no like!) the canal opens up wide and straight as you head towards Trafford Park and the smell of Cornflakes (allegedly) from Kellog's. But that olfactory delight must wait until tomorrow as we are tied up on the visitor moorings outside the Trafford Centre.
So, could we be in for a spot of retail therapy tomorrow?