Ivinghoe, Grand Union Canal – Thursday 10 May 2012
A late morning as the locks won’t be open until 10am, so at about 9:15 headed off to Bulbourne Junction join the queue that I was sure would be waiting – surprise the “water bailiff” had unlocked the lock and there was only one other boat waiting (no name), so we headed off sharing the locks.  I have estimated my time assuming that I would have to operate the locks on my own; it’s much quicker with a second boat to help.  The Marsworth locks are fairly close together (seven in about half mile) and there was also a helpful member of BW staff so we were through in what seemed like no time!  Then we passed the junction with the Aylesbury Arm and onwards on the Grand Union Canal Main Line.  At the next lock there was a very friendly mastiff type dog which wanted to help with the gates, but kept getting in the way of the windlass!  After the first of the Ivinghoe Locks I moored up and the other boat headed off.  It had been lovely and sunny up till then, but as soon as I was trying to tie the boat up the rain started and it is fairly heavy.  Tomorrow should see me at Linslade for the weekend.