Peak Forest Canal:Dukinfield Junction

Having spent a few days undergoing maintenance at Braidbar boatyard (Briadbar was the boat's birthplace) the boat is on the move again.  Phil, a railway track gang friend, joined us.  We were aiming for Dukinfield Junction with the Ashton.  There is a short cruise along the Macclesfield then the 16 lock Marple flight before the remaining lockless cruise.   The weather was chilly and overcast, but pleasant enough with occasional sun peeking through.   It would appear that we were the first boat to attempt a descent of the locks because we couldn't get the top gate open wide enough to get in.  This means an obstruction between the gate and wall which we attempted to feel for with the pole but really came up with what felt like gravel and rubble, not a log which we might have been able to deal with.  Nothing for it but to call out C&RT.   A chap arrived after about an hour and a half. He tried with rake and bent fork to clear it with little effect initially, but finally got rid of enough to open the gate another couple of inches which was all it took.  Then we were on our way, and being first made exceptionally good time.  Marple locks are narrow and deep, starting in an urban setting and progressing to pretty woodland. The few opposite direction boats that we came across merged in beautifully.  By lunch time we were getting quite hot.   We reached our overnight spot around 4 pm. mooring by the grass before the final bend to the junction itself.  Hoping to visit the museum nearby we were turned away - too late.