We were out walking last night and came to Boveney Lock where we saw the bottom gates were open which is contrary to instructions for the unmanned lock (it was 8 pm). Shortly after a sequence of evening party trip boats came through. These guys cheat. They have a key to turn the power on, whereas oiks like ourselves have to wind the handle hundreds of times when the lock is unmanned. Later that evening our youngest daughter phoned to say that she thinks she has mumps. Help! This morning Pat phoned again and now feels duty bound to return home ASAP. So we set off at about 7:50, did Boveney Lock the hard way, and carried on to Staines where we reckoned a good train service should be available. Very little traffic on the river, so we were there by 11:30. Pat was home in an hour and a half! I did the remaining three locks solo in all respects, solo crew and solo boat. I just use a centre rope to steady the boat and put a stern line on to stop it drifting, then sit on the wall holding both ropes. Sneaky positioning by the steps helps getting back on with deep locks, but most of the Thames locks are not that deep. I arrived at Walton-on-Thames at 14:00 and found a space by the Anglers. I have warned Thames Lock at Brentford to expect me tomorrow. Strictly speaking its not necessary to phone ahead during normal hours, but the Brentford guys are very helpful and they are more likely to have the gates open ready. The high tide tomorrow is at 14:30, so I will appear at Teddington Lock at 14:00. Am looking forward to Hanwell flight on Tuesday (not!).
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