First day on the T&M

What a good day's cruising that was! Diesel at Thorn for only 62p then off we go in glorious sunshine. The cruise down to Preston Brook was a real delight and it's been so long since we came this way it was just like doing it for the first time.

Walton Hall cutting

There are plenty of great stopping places but if we stopped at every turn we literally wouldn't get anywhere so we pushed on, always aware that we will come this way again.

Yes, it's a winding hole!

An unremarkable pic but this turning point is as far as we have ever come in this direction so, in a way, it's all new from here on in.
There was quite a bit of traffic coming the other way, especially out of the Runcorn branch. We decided to give this a miss, mainly due to the fact that Norton Priory is having some work done so we thought we would visit there next year.

Runcorn arm

Once past Claymoore Holiday Boats and Preston Brook Tunnel comes into view. We just missed our turn through the tunnel (from half past the hour to twenty to the hour) so we had time for lunch and to visit the library...

What a nice gesture!

Half past came soon enough and it was our turn, with another boat behind us

Biding our time

You can see the light at the end of the tunnel but it is actually far from straight and steering adjustments are constantly required. Still, we emerged after 15 minutes with no mishaps after three quarters of a mile.

Spot the face in the water! 

Once on the T&M and there is clearly a different feel after the wide open Bridgewater and L&L with lots of twists and turns and, in this area at least, a lovely rural feel.

Today's mooring

That's our view looking down towards the River Weaver. Quite a nice spot!