Issue 86 Summer 2015

The journal of the Russell Newbery Engine Owners & Enthusiasts Club

Rob’s Retiring!

The Last Man In BCN Explored Flying from Llangollen Rally & Cruise Pictures Poetry & Song!

www.rnregister.org.uk WHO’S WHO CONTENTS

Front cover: RNR at Pelsall Common [Andrew Laycock] Back cover: Bentley , Junction Then [Tony Millatt] Now [Kevin McNiff]

3 CHAIRMAN’S CHAT FROM THE EDITOR RUSSELL NEWBERY REGISTER LTD 4 MEMBERSHIP MATTERS President: Dr Ian McKim Thompson Vice Presidents: Lady Carol Stamp, Mrs Susan Gibbs, SITUATIONS VACANT David Thirlby, Allister Denyer, Graham Pearson, Eleanor FOR SALE Phillips Web site: www.rnregister.org.uk 5 “THANK YOU” FROM L&HRT The Russell Newbery Register is a non profit distributing company limited by guarantee. A GIFT FROM THE BOARD Founded: 1994 Registered in No: 346943 MOORINGS AVAILABLE Officers: Chairman: Norman C Mitchell 6 LAST MAN IN t: 01452 415420 [email protected] Secretary: Kevin McNiff Autarky arrives m: 07866 424988 [email protected] Director: Jim Comerford 7 MORE THANKS — FROM CRT m: 07887 591905 [email protected] FAVOURITE WATERSIDE PUB Administration (membership, finance): Rob Davies 55 Noddington Lane, Whittington, Lichfield, Staffs. WS14 8 RALLY PHOTOCALL 9PA t/f: 01543 432079 m: 07801 842337 [email protected] 10 TRIPPING ROUND THE POOLS Newsletter Editor: Kevin McNiff [email protected] Newsletter Production: Andrew Laycock m: 07870 294580 Administration (merchandise): Neil Mason 11 LLANGOLLEN FLYBOATS Hillcrest, Chapel Lane, Westhumble, Surrey. RH5 6AH t: 01306 889073 [email protected] 12 NORTHERN BCN EXPLORED Rally Organisers: Bob Scott and Andrew Laycock [email protected] 14 ONE DOWN! Webmaster: Andrew Laycock [email protected] AUTUMN GATHERING RUSSELL NEWBERY REGISTER PROPERTY LTD 15 POETRY AND SONG!

A non profit distributing company limited by guarantee Unless otherwise noted, Copyright © Russell Newbery Register, 2015 Founded 2004 Registered in England No: 5316384 Directors: Bob Ainsworth, Rob Davies, Dave Martin, Bob Scott.

Stop Press Situation(s) Vacant!

RN DIESEL ENGINE COMPANY Proprietors: Dave Bixter (m: 07812 039110) Full details on page 4 Deborah Bixter (m: 07966 403132) Showroom: RN House, The Locks, Hillmorton, Rugby, Warwickshire, CV21 4PP t: 01788 578661 Engineering workshop: 4 Oak House, Royal Oak Way North, Royal Oak Industrial Estate, Daventry NN11 8PQ t: 01327 700023 Email: [email protected] Next edition Web site: www.russellnewbery.com Field Engineers: Ian Crompton m: 07831 841108 All contributions for the Autumn edition will Richard Milligan m: 07973 826260 be gratefully received. Do not worry about format — in true RN fashion the editorial team can cope with [almost] anything!

Please supply photographs as separate JPEG or GIF files.

Corporate Member Copy deadline is 16th October 2015 2 RNR Newsletter : Summer 2015 Chairman’s Chat The “summer” continues! For all of you who could not, or even did not want to, you missed a most enjoyable RNR Rally. The venue was interesting and coped with us all; the entertainment fabulous; the beer, cider and other drinks flowed well and the camaraderie excellent. Congratulations to all involved in the organisation and the smooth running of the whole event. Pauline and I took off on the BCN Tour ably arranged by our President Ian. The visit to the CRT Bradley Works, where the replacement gates are manufactured, was a real treat. The stores were immaculate; the whole place tidy and there is not a computer in the place! It was a real sight to see. On our Both Property and Register AGMs went without a hitch way up the very weedy arm we were the centre of save for the ominous news from our very able and attention; the local residents had not seen so many efficient Admin Manager, Rob Davies that he intends to boats come by for many years and they came out in retire from that post. HELP! their droves to see us all moored off a new housing estate. One local even lifted her dog up to view the sight We are now hoping one or even two people will over the bridge parapet! volunteer to fill the membership and treasurer roles that Rob has so effectively carried out since the year dot. The Wyrley and Essington Canal [or Curly Wyrley] Please let me and Rob know if you are willing to take on came next with visits to Anglesey Basin, Pelsall one of the roles. Common and on. The great feature of most of the trip was WEED and RUBBISH, guaranteed to slow us down Well, that is probably too much chuntering and as we and cause some to spend a large proportion of their have reached Ellesmere on the Llangollen Canal, it is time down their weed hatch! I can honestly say I have time to enjoy that rare view of the August sun appearing so far not needed to go down at all but I do have a very between the clouds. Happy and trouble free boating to sharp boat hook which usually clears my prop and shaft you all and we hope to see you at the Gathering. without hatch diving! (having a 27inch by 23 prop does help). I even fished out a crutch from Ryders Green bottom lock - minus patient!

From The Editor For those not fully convinced, this is the This edition is later than usual due to the Summer Edition of the newsletter, welcome! change in Rally date; some trees are I didn’t think we’d be sitting in showing early colour change and Birmingham in late July with our stove lit blackberries are, well, turning black and I guess many of you may have done the already! Let’s hope there can be a hint of same elsewhere! A truly British up-and- Indian Summer as we approach the down summer, brrr! Autumn Gathering and we can enjoy what remains of summer! Our Bostin’ Black Country themed Rally and subsequent BCN cruise were however Looking ahead to the Autumn Edition, saved from the worst of the weather, except there is still space for articles, pictures and for one heavily locked day. You can see and stories so please, don’t be shy. read more about these events within this full colour edition.

Continuing with the tide of change, a vacancy is arising for the position of Brrr! Administrator at RNR.

RNR Newsletter : Summer 2015 3 Situations Vacant At the AGM I announced that, after careful consideration, would keep the job as it is. That does not mean to say that I have decided to stand down as Administrator of the Membership and Finance cannot be split into two separate Register. I took over in 1999 and, after 16 years I think it is roles. In that case I suggest that the Administrator covers time for a change. (I am sure that many of you are thinking Membership and remains as the first point to reference for – about time too!) all things RN Register.

Initially, I did everything! Gradually over the years I have I have found it to be a rewarding job, building up the ‘shed’ various functions (Merchandise, Newsletter etc) membership from about 120 to, currently, 240 or so. For ending up with what I do now. Well, what does the me it is a pleasure to be able to assist a member with a Administrator do? In essence I look after Membership and query, helping each other is what we do in the ‘RN Family’. Finance, two jobs but in fact, as Administrator, it is 3 jobs. I am the focal point of reference for the Register and have As I advised Members at the AGM, I am not seeking to custody of various Register records, archives, photos etc. down tools and just walk away. Having made the decision A fair amount of storage space is required, ideally a 4 I need some time to sift through 16 years of accumulation drawer filing cabinet plus space for the likes of back and put things in a presentable order for handing over. numbers of the Newsletter etc. Also, approximately 5 lever Therefore a phased handover during the rest of this year arch files. would, I think, make the transfer more manageable.

The two main jobs of Membership and Finance do knit If you are interested in taking on the role(s) and would, together well and complement each other. It makes for initially, like to chat it through with me, I will be happy to easy reference to the Bank accounts, receipt of monthly provide as much help and information as I can. Formal statements to check Bankers’ Order membership application should be made to our Chairman, Norman renewals and paying in of cheques for renewals etc. Mitchell. However, some 75% or so renewals are now paid by Bankers Order which does make the job so much easier. Whilst it is not for me to dictate the way forward, ideally I

Membership Matters Engines, Boats and Bits for sale Overall membership numbers remain somewhat static but, Flogging Molly [formerly Foxy Lady] since June we have signed up 5 new members. So a very warm ‘RN’ welcome to:

Richard & Paula Chester-Nash, Lewes NB Finola Anne t: nnnnn nnnnnn m: nnnnn nnnnnn email: n

Samantha Higgins, Tarvin NB Mary Anne m: nnnnn nnnnnn email: n

Simon Joles, Witham NB Joanna t: nnnnn nnnnnn m: nnnnn nnnnnn 58ft R&D Fabrications 1998 with 1987 Upminster DM2 email: n engine in stern. Open plan layout with Morso Squirrel stove complete with back boiler and radiators. Rinnai gas water heater, vannette hob , oven and grill, sterling pro 30 amp charger, 440 A/hour battery, 300 watt solar panels If you’re anything like me, with 40 amp controller. Blacked 3 years ago, good survey the number of passwords 5 years ago, fixed double bed, new Indesit washing needed for anything these machine with 3 year guarantee, 12 volt shoreline fridge. days is quite confusing. I Walk through bathroom with bath. Double bed by engine challenge anyone to room. Gas lockers in forward well deck, cratch cover. remember this one at a well £25,000. Phone Paul Miller 07591 966747 known pub. Name the pub Red Admiral to be the winner of this 56' 6" all steel narrow boat with a 1948 (rebuilt 1991) RN edition’s quiz. No prize mind D3. Well maintained with lounge at fore end, fully fitted you, just the kudos of Galley with new cooker last year. Bathroom with shower getting it right! and bath. Sleeps 3.. Ed £48,000. Contact 01270 522231 or 01606 738341 Crowther propeller - 21 x 18 compensated RH propeller, suitable for 1.5" shaft. £300. Contact Brian Jarrett on 07766 216819.

4 RNR Newsletter : Summer 2015 A Thank You from Lichfield & Hatherton Restoration Trust This year’s Rally raffle raised a total of £533. Members two former working boats operated jointly by the BCNS and attending the AGM were invited to nominate a worthy Coombeswood Canal Trust. The L&H were the chosen cause to receive 50%, the remainder to be allocated to the recipients; a cheque has been sent to them and their Rally Reserve account. There were two nominations: The response is copied below: L&H Canals Restoration Trust and Atlas and Malus, the

And a Gift from the Board Interim figures in from our Adminstrator showed that the matching donation from Register funds to the second Rally this year made a healthy surplus of £541.82. The nominated cause, Atlas & Malus. accounts will be presented in due course but as a result, the Register Board have unanimously agreed to make a Ed

Moorings available On the Staffs & Worcester Canal. Run by enthusiasts. Properly supervised and secure linear moorings at the one time home of Russell Newbery. Useful facilities and convenient communications. Thompson & Co., Canal Cottage, Hinksford Wharf, Hinksford Lane, Kingswinford, . DY6 0RH 01384 294131 07971 291296 RNR Newsletter : Summer 2015 5 Autarky — The Last Man In Brian explains:

Why get rid of Kyle? Why have a new boat in your 70's? Well, knees and left hip to start with; also two Christmases ago 25kg bags of coal started to feel very heavy.

Hence Autarky (which means economic & self-sufficient).

After my years of living on a canal boat & years before living on a sea boat I had very clear ideas of the layout and fit out that would hopefully see me independently boating into my 80s ! Seeing the DM1 being removed at Dave's yard was the decisive moment; then to see the sunken 1899 iron riveted BCN Joe firmed up the design of my "new" 44' boat.

Over the coming months the steelwork was completed by Freshly named at Alvechurch Reeves and Sons including removing a 4" strip down the middle of the base plate to reduce her overall width at the base plate to 6'8" and make her possible to pass through all the locks (including the second lock on the Napton flight, but as Rudyard Kipling would say that's another story!) Over the following months the selected fittings and components were installed behind some fine joinery by Liam at Grantham Bridge Boat Services.

The boat layout is : Boat Man’s Cabin, Engine Room, Wet Room, Galley, Saloon, Covered Cratch Area all in 44 feet!

The main items that could be classed as quirky: Gentle shallow steps down into the boat (bad knees) Composting toilet (no heavy cassette to carry) Dickinson diesel stove/c/h (no heavy coal bags) 1,000 Ltr diesel tank(for when I get iced in)

Brian also explains that at 44ft long, he is saving £107 on his licence fee if the boat had been 45ft!

The project was not without its share of highs and lows. Brian has already touched on the aborted journey when the original boat was being towed to Fenny Compton; at 7’ 2” wide at the base it became wedged in the Napton Last in at Titford Top Lock flight which didn’t make for good Karma with other users! Neither were CRT too impressed when it was arranged to crane the shell out at their Napton facility, something about risk assessments, method statements and basically “you’re not putting a crane on this hardstanding, mate, so think again. Bloomin’ elf & stupidity again!

But when the insurance company insisted on an historic boat survey, which resulted in the original iron base plate needing to be over-plated, our intrepid boatman lost the plot! It was this work coupled with the missed paint dock booking that had our Brian become the Last Man Into the Rally. But he made it and in good time too.

To finish it off, Dave Moore sign wrote the registration number while Autarky was in the top lock of The Crow, then a few weeks later did the name while at Alvechurch.

Is Brian pleased? He thinks its Bostin.

The engine ‘ole

6 RNR Newsletter : Summer 2015 Thanks from CRT West Midlands It always pays to say thanks! Hi Andrew – First of all apologies for taking so described as a challenging area so seeing lots of long to get back to you, but I’ve been tied up (not boats using the arm really helps. J literally ) in Leeds for a couple of days. Last, but not least, thanks for the kind words I’m really happy you all had a great time and by about many of our staff because they are the sounds of it a very successful Rally. It reads appreciated and I’ll make sure everyone gets to to me like you all cram a lot in over a short space see your email. of time and from our point of view it’s great to Thanks again for writing in to let us know how hear about people cruising on some of our lesser things went and we will look forward to seeing used canals such as the Bradley Arm. There’s you all again in a couple of years time. also a great added advantage for us because we have recently set up an adoption scheme with Kind Regards some local residents on the arm and so far Ian Darby, Customer Operations Manager they’ve been very proactive in what can only be West Midlands Waterway

Above was the reply I received after thanking Ian Darby Well we had so much Black Country material left over and Ian Lane (Waterways Manager) for all the help they from this year! and their staff provided to ensure the rally and post rally convoy cruise was a success. You may notice there is a bit of a clue as to which region the 2017 rally will be in! A Pre Rally Gathering

It has become something of a tradition to meet up en route to the Rally and this year was no exception.

Tied up at Cambrian wharf were The Caddy, Trundlemere, Lothlorien, Galliard, Ebony and Arthur.

Its probably the quieter of the city moorings, away from walkers and cyclists

Favourite Waterside Pubs Here is the first in an occasional series. Yes, this is my local canal side pub, but it is wonderful! Contributions from other readers welcome.

Cape of Good Hope, Warwick A real waterside pub, the canal is just feet from the front door. The pubs was built as the same time as the canal. A painting in the lounge explains the origin of the name, which is now applied to this area of Warwick. However the term Cape Lock is modern, to old boatmen they were Warwick locks.

The front bar is the original building with a tasteful modern extension to the rear that is sympathetic to the original. Owners New Zealander Steve Jury and his partner Emma, are proud to serve fine locally sourced food and ales. There are 3 permanent real ales, including Hook Norton behaved dogs on leads are welcome, so too are children and local brewery Church Farm. Three other guest beers (they don’t have to be on a lead). Live music features usually available. Wines are from Mathew Clarke and meat some evenings. A great place to relax either after boating comes from renowned Leamington butcher Rumps. or to watch other boats go by. Internal decorations include various canal related items, and local history relating to the nearby Donald Healey Open 12-11 Mon-Thu; 12-Midnight Fri-Sun; Meals factory site. available 12-3, 6-9.15; 12-9.15 Fri-Sun..

The outside seating area is along side the canal, in fine weather the grass by the lock performs as a garden. Well RNR Newsletter : Summer 2015 7 The 2015 Rally Photo Call

The beads!

Right then, let’s get started!

Michael Pearson The Grot

Phil Clayton’s musical

Roger O’Dea Lock wheeler extraordinary A Ruby Wedding today!

Bob May - his last Rally Dandy

Well attended tech forum Tank busters

Craftwork

R N R[ockers] [Photos by Jim Comerford, Andrew Laycock, Kevin McNiff, Ken Nelson]

8 RNR Newsletter : Summer 2015 The 2015 Rally Photo Call

“Mr BCNS” Dave Moore and [r] his work for Charley Johnston Ian McKim Thompson

Right then, let’s get started!

FOOD!

Cream Tea

Breakfast Rolls Phil Clayton’s musical

A Bostin’ supper

Part of the longest rally bar

Dandy Anyone want to play?

Just one boat picture - Swallow

R N R[ockers] [Photos by Jim Comerford, Andrew Laycock, Kevin McNiff, Ken Nelson] Techies Rule! IKEA Tent kit! As usual no instructions! RNR Newsletter : Summer 2015 9 Tripping around the Titford Pools

[Chrissy Price]

[Kevin McNiff ]

[Kevin McNiff] [Val Comerford]

The Tuesday exploratory trip - in damp weather [Andrew Laycock] 10 RNR Newsletter : Summer 2015 The Llangollen Flyboats When I heard that the new RN rally committee had in between us. But by the time we were 'in the thick' there organised the 2015 rally to be in July I feared that we might were 6 in between - one boat pulling off in each pound. It not be able to attend. Val & I and our good friends Hazel & was a slow ascent and we didn't clear the top lock at Cox John have a voluntary commitment at the Llangollen bank until 12:30. We should still get to Oldbury for Saturday International Musical Eisteddfod. This is held on the first though. We bought farm supplies at Adderley top after a whole week in July as well. better run. Tyrley turned out to be pandemonium. A volunteer lock-assistant was turning locks round in front of We had been to our first RN rally in Stourbridge by car, but boats. There may have been reason for it, but we couldn't while we could leave the boat up in Llangollen it wouldn't be see it. The pounds were all very low with no water running the same and we would also miss out on the BCN cruise. over weir, a sight rarely seen on the Shroppie, and at least There was only one thing for it – a bit of Fly-Boating. The one boat ended up on the ledge at the side, as the locks four of us discussed the feasability and decided that we were filled. Stay in the middle at Tyrley. We cleared at 4pm. would give it a go. Trying to plan, only showed that we really Oldbury seemed a long way off and this was Wednesday. needed a minimum of six days to get to Titford, we had four Long pound now, so decided to push on. Ate the excellent and in my case a little less. Lamb burgers from Adderley on the move, and had a couple of beers, and so spirits were revived. We caught up Monday 13th: NB North Star slipped out of the basin at with John and Hazel at bridge 21, Little Onn. It was 10 pm. Llangollen at 8:00 on Monday. I had to go on site and do Time for bed. some final bits of tear-down after the previous night's UB40 concert. We managed to leave at 10:00. A good start Thursday 16th: I needed fuel so a call at Turner's was on the though the narrows and we were on our way. One boat cards. I checked the internet and they opened at 8am, so a ahead of us for the Pontcysyllte aqueduct with a couple 7:30am start to get there for then. Don't believe everything almost across towards us. The trip boat and another on the internet. They open at 8:30am. But kindly, Stuart, following us join in the queue. Then... a couple more are who had arrived early, served us and others, waiting on the seen just about to enter the trough from the far end. The road, early. We duly caught up with John and Hazel at Trevor end is grid-lock as the exits are both blocked. I Oxley marine where we both had pump outs at sensible decided I had to go for it, followed instantly by the trip boat. prices. Being breasted up for the services, John suggested The boats at the far end pulled in. I offered an apology as that we set-off up the 21 first. Another boat coming out – we exited which I am glad to say was graciously accepted they might all be set for us, and with only a small delay from by the Australians on their boat. As we rounded the bend a a single-handed boater bow-hauling down due to a broken very kind Israeli girl off a hire boat waved us through the lift gearbox, we had a good run with North Star close behind. bridge. Llangollen is a truly international place. We cleared the flight at 4pm. Only the level now until the Crow. After the water of the Shroppie it felt like No delay at New Marton locks we had a brief stop opposite navigating in soup. Discussions on the phone suggesting the Ellesmere yard at about 5.30pm, where we walked up overnighting in Tipton or the museum, spirits were down to Tescos for supplies. We finally tied for the night opposite and the crews were rather tired, but with better progress Lyneal Wharf. A text from Hazel told us that they had made, it was decided to go for it – all the way to Titford. The moored at the east side of Whixall Moss – about 5 miles M5 was a joy to behold, the junction is just around the ahead of us. corner. Neil had told us, on the phone, to just come on up. The Crow gates were open and ready. We made ourselves Tuesday 14th: An early set-off at 07:30. Luck was again with heard over Andrew's introductory speech as we exited the us at Morris Lift bridge as another crew waved us though. top lock. It is a Russell Newbery Rally after all! Now for the big jam – Grindley brook. As we rounded the bend, I saw …. no-one!. However the lock keeper had just Tied up at 8:00pm. Was it worth it – Yes. The Rally was reversed the direction so we did have to wait for 3 to come excellent and the following week we all tried our patiences up. The remaining locks down the Hurleston were without with the weed on the BCN experience. delay and with the lock-keeper's help shot down the four onto the Shroppie. Water under the boat at last, we made [When I asked John for his comments, he said “I’ve done good progress and tied at the top of Hack-green at 8:30pm. better things in four days!. Ed] Hazel and John were opposite Overwater, maintaining the gap. Not for long!

Wednesday 15th: A determined 7:00 start saw us briefly in contact with North Star at the bottom of Audlem, with a boat

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RNR Newsletter : Summer 2015 11 The Northern BCN Explored Our President, Ian McKim Thompson, had arranged a post Thursday saw Ian’s pair “jumped” by Thistledown in an Rally trip around the Northern BCN. I took part in a similar early dawn getaway towards Brownhills where some used trip three years ago organised by Stuart and Marie Sherratt the excellent CRT facilities and even more excellent visitor of the BCN Society in which several RN boats en route to moorings outside Tesco. This was a short stop as we were the Stourbridge Rally also took part – Ian as well! That making for Anglesey Basin and a short walk up to journey tempted me to venture into the relatively unknown Reservoir [or further afield for some who reaches again, despite the potential to spend inordinate visited the light railway]. Despite advance notice by Ian, the time in the weed hatch. This year, however, I was not pumps were not running from “the Ressie” and the level entwined for 90 minutes; most forays lasting around 10 was around 3 bricks down; this helped many of us to gather minutes each! a large amount of weed from said basin. Then onward to Daw End for another round of foaming brews, oh and food! Around 23 boats took part, leaving the Titford flight [also known as The Crow] in an orderly fashion throughout the Friday was the last day of the cruise with, once again, Monday morning [0400 – yes it was] with a choice of routes many starting off very early. It didn’t stop the rain though, to take, eventually stopping at Tipton or down the Bradley which fell all day through the Rushall and Ryders Green Arm, a sight that locals were surprised but pleased to see. lock flights – typical! Journey’s end was at Ryders Green On Tuesday morning, we had to be at the CRT Bradley top lock where all bar 8 boats once again crammed the Works at 0830, where a tour of the workshops making lock available space. The others had either pressed on to gates, balance beams and associated metalwork had been Birmingham or left at to head for Perry arranged by Andrew Laycock. Some boats made it down to Bar. A walk in the rain, along the now unnavigable the end of the arm before opening time while the rest Wednesbury Old Canal towards the obliterated Swan Lane followed after, a good walk indeed. The day’s stop was at Junction with the Ridgeacre Branch, and we saw a winding the stump of the in Wednesfield. Again our hole in far better condition than many on the system! The boats jammed the arm and moorings alongside the evening ended with a meal at The Ridgeacre. Nickelodeon pub [not the best on the canal by far!]. The retail park was an extremely useful point for all manner of Most will agree that the journey was worth the effort and is shopping. what is needed to keep the channel navigable. Our thanks again to Ian for working out a route and stops for us all. He On Wednesday we made for Pelsall Common, a jewel in says he has another one in the pipeline for when we next the BCN crown. The journey probably saw the most visits visit the Midlands. to the weed hatch of the week, though some were lucky enough to get away with the shaft or a twitch of reverse. My own tally that day was 5! A very enjoyable meal was had at The Finger Post, formally known as The Royal Oak and scene of a grisly murder several years ago.

Then and now Anglesey Branch near Catshill Anglesey Basin Wednesbury Old Canal (Not much difference, but it was navigable then!)

[Tony Millatt] [Tony Millatt] [Andrew Laycock]

[Kevin McNiff] [Andrew Laycock] [Andrew Laycock] 12 RNR Newsletter : Summer 2015 Stainless steel arch near Heath Bridge W&E. The perils of WW I A Motley Crew! [Andrew Laycock]

Competed lock gates and supervisor Dave [L] Part of the old boat turning system in the Constable accepts a Rally plaque for the visit. now unused dock and [R] spot the notice!

The neighbours got a surprise this The BCN at Pelsall Common Class A Weed! evening! [Andrew Laycock] [Andrew Laycock]

Bradley Workshops

Situation Normal[n]! At The Fingerpost A Rainy Rushall [Uncredited photos by Kevin McNiff] [Tony Millatt]

Are you sure that nb Albion went this way?

Last supper at The Ridgeacre [Andrew Laycock] Wednesbury “Old” [Andrew Laycock] RNR Newsletter : Summer 2015 13 One down Shortly before the rally, I was asked if I was looking forward ● Slightly later starts on Friday and Saturday to it. I’m sure my reply was that I was more looking forward mornings ~ but this might mean slightly later to the Monday afterwards! finishing! ● Fewer questions on the treasure hunt Well, the first A&B (Andrew & Bob) rally is history — and ● More drinking time we survived. We hope all attendees enjoyed it, or at least ● Not to use taxi firms with names starting A1 parts of it! ● To rein in speakers who go over their allocated time (or at least attempt to!) We did have a few panics. Not the least was when two presenters pulled out and one exhibitor requested a Our other major problem was fitting everything in. What we change of day just two weeks before hand! The left out will almost fill the programme for the next Black cooperation of BCNS and CRT helped enormously. So did Country rally. the willingness of the Register members who helped out, again with some undertaking new roles. Thanks to them In the meantime - next year. By the time you read this, we once more, and we hope you will volunteer again for next will have made our first site visit. Hopefully if negotiations year! proceed successfully, I will be able to make an announcement at the Autumn Gathering. We have some The BCNS were really delighted to host us, particularly as ideas for the programme — including a Saturday afternoon we consumed all the burgers and chips on Thursday event never seen at a rally before. evening and purchased loads of books and maps on Sunday morning. They would like us to bring the rally back Thank you to all the attendees who thanked us and have to Titford in the future. made some suggestions. Any more comments and suggestions are most welcome, particularly regarding the We do admit some things were not quite perfect. So next date. time we do promise: ● Decaffeinated coffee (and Earl Grey tea) on the free drinks

Autumn Gathering: Long Itchington 25th to 27th September In contrast to the rally, this is a very low key informal event. Eating (other than Saturday evening): You have a choice of The only organised activity is a buffet meal at The Cuttle Inn six (very different) pubs, one diner (good for breakfasts) on Saturday evening . This will be in the function room in and a Chinese restaurant (but that is a bit of a walk from the the garden, at 7pm for 8pm. Cost £7.50 per head. If you cut). wish to book for this, please reply to me as soon as you Nattering: Congregate in the lounge (left) of the Two Boats receive this Newsletter. ([email protected] or 07870 on Friday and Saturday afternoon. 294580). [The closing date in the last Newsletter was Winding: Kayes Arm junction above Shop Lock. If coming wrong, it should have said 4th September not 4th August! from and returning to Napton and over 60 feet, a bit of Sorry.] reversing with help may be necessary. We can sort it out on Saturday. Warning: do not navigate the bridge below Shop Otherwise the arrangements are as follows: lock breasted up - it is only 13’ 10” wide! Arrival: any time you like before Saturday evening. Boating supplies: Visit Warwickshire Fly Boat shop by Shop Mooring: any where on the Itchington to Bascote pound. Lock. There are some bollards near the A423 road bridge and Departure: Any time after Saturday evening. some Armco piling suitable for hooks. On the embankment you need to use pins. Parking: use the Cuttle Inn or Two Boats Car park.

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14 RNR Newsletter : Summer 2015 The Tale of the Leaky Lock The “RN BCN” Song [with scant apologies to Noel Coward and "Mad Dogs and Englishmen"] As many of you will have experienced, the bottom lock at Glascote on the , By Kevin is a notoriously slow filler. This ‘ode’ hangs on the rails adjacent to the Lock; Dead dogs and narrowboatmen go out on the BCN Its pleasant and delightful, exciting and when, Just a note, to let you know A plastic cruiser comes our way That this here lock is very slow We look at him and what we say, is Dead dogs and narrowboatmen go out on the BCN So take a breath, relax and smile Our President he takes his pair around the (You might be waiting here a while) BCN From Norton Canes and Anglesey to Stourbridge and when The problem is, (or so we are told) A hired boat comes round his way Is the Lock 13 is very old The steerer hears our captain say, that Dead dogs and narrowboatmen go out on the Her paddles shot through wear and BCN tear, We had a July Rally - at Tat Bank, Oldbury The water pours out here and there. With forty seven narrowboats it was a sight to see Some ventured into Titford pools We’ve had them fixed, then fixed again The locals had to say that Only dead dogs and narrowboatmen go out By some of Waterways finest men, on the BCN And for while the lock works well, Some ventured round the BCN, to explore the Until again it leaks like hell. places where, Most narrowboats avoid to go unless they take good care Now if this pause in your sojourn We honed our skills when down the hatch Has made you stop and think and learn The weed was in our way so we sang Dead dogs and narrowboatmen go out on the That on the cut there is a pace, BCN That’s not for those who want to race. And now we’re back in waters deep and clear of prop debris So if you’re ‘rushing’, running late We had good times, some had a laugh – “Got rubbish - oh not Me!” This tale of Leaky Lock you’ll hate. We’ll meet again in twelve months when If you’ve no time to gently float, Our Rally comes again but this time Dead dogs and RN boats should avoid the Then why a blooming narrow boat. BCN

Dead dogs and RN boats go out on the BCN The Bard of Glascote Locks Its pleasant and delightful ‘cos we’re boating with our friends We’ll get a plaque for mastering The art of weed hatch’ry then we’ll say Dead dogs and RN boats go Out on the BC Out on the BC Out on the BCN!

RNR Newsletter : Summer 2015 15