The kids had the treat of working the swingbridge this morning as we continued on. There seems to be more traffic now the weather is improving. At Fishery Lock the water coming into the lock chamber overflowing the gates plus the bywashes which empty into the lock when overtopping the ground paddle weirs was so much that the two adults and two small children (one of which can already manage a gate on her own) were unable to open the bottom gates to leave. It took the addition of a passer by to do this with a great deal of effort. That was the worst. We needed access to Kings Langley station to allow the guests to travel back to Berkhamsted where they had left their car. Home Farm Lock appeared the best option, but it was necessary to descend to find a possible mooring site, but wanting to be near the access bridge, we had to accept a less than suitable spot due to shallow water. Once the guests had left a move to Hunton Bridge seemed a good idea. A much better spot and a quick visit to the Kings Arms followed. It’s down the street at the end on the right. Two observations today: 1. I have not been down this way for quite a few years and was surprised by the large number of wide beams on the move. 2. The lock gear South of Berkhamsted appears unloved, rusty, squealing and dying for some grease. Even the brand new gates have bee delivered it seems in this basic state and lacking in a first service, in constrast to everywhere else thus far this trip. Finally, this photo shows a well known boating hazard.
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