One of the 'poor' boating ladies

IN RESPONSE to Mr Stewart 's email I would like to say that I am one of the 'poor' boating ladies who always works the locks, writes Diane Long.

I would very much like to point out that I do this for a number of reasons.

Will not let him

1. By far the main reason, my dear husband served his country for almost 20 years until he was too badly injured to continue to do so and while he would love to do the locks I will not let him for fear of him injuring himself further.

2. I am not at all keen on being inside a lock chamber.

3. After doing a few locks I do not feel guilty at devouring that bacon sandwich my lovely husband makes for me.

Not everything is as it seems. I am more than capable of manoeuvring our boat in any situation so please do not judge people and don't feel sorry for us poor weak women, we are having fun!

(Diane Long.  Joint Captain, Nb Florence)