Day 13: Nether Heyford to Gayton Junction

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It's about 5 miles to Alvechurch Boats at Gayton, who've confirmed they can supply a new lamp and fit if needed. We're a bit twitchy about it, because Blisworth Tunnel is nearby and is nearly 2 miles long and we definitely need good visibility! 

A touching and troubling canalside memorial to two pets

Vintage tractor in its own walled niche

We like unusual boat signage

Glorious weather and delightful scenery along this stretch

 
...according to Denis!

There are, sadly, quite a few derelict hulls around - this looks like a fire

Perfect sky

Decorated by local schoolchildren

Useful to know...

Lots of herons everywhere, must be plenty of fish and frogs

Arrive at Gayton and buy new lamp and diesel, plus have a pumpout - arm and a leg, but needs must

We have to go along the arm to the top of the first lock of the Rothersthorpe flight (into Northampton) to turn round at this very well kept winding hole and retrace our route back onto the Grand Union
 
Top of Rothersthorpe flight - it's like turning off the M1 onto a country lane!

 

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