Grand Union 2008
The Crew were standing, John Parmenter (Captain), Steve Platt, Adrian King, Dr. Mike Addlesee, and kneeling, Proff. Martin Cranage & David King.
Photo M.Cranage
This was an out and back trip southbound from the Gayton Marina base of Alvechurch Waterway Holidays booked through UK Boat Hire. We all felt that both companies operated to a very high standard , the boat Canada Goose was perfect for our ageing crew and in the facilities it provided, ranking as one of the best boats we have ever had. The luxuries of mains inverter electricity are now standard on this fleet so that a toaster and microwave are part of the galley equipment, along with carpet on the floor.
We could have taken some high power radio gear but zimmer frames are more likely to be seen these days really.
I would point out that any negative comments in the trip notes reflect our honest opinion as to the state of the beer (ale) they served up. I think only 4 pubs actually served up really acceptable beer during the whole trip out of the 11 (ish) we visited. It seems that the pubs with good simple grub probably serve the best beer, but guess this is seasonal as well. I am sure that during summer with the higher turnover things improve.
The Plough at Simpson between bridges 91 and 92 served up what Steve said was Beer Festival quality, so just to be sure we called there on the way back as well.