Good at fending off problems

AFTER being stuck fast for two days on the Coventry Canal, and needing to make headway (Grandchildren want a visit) we gave CRT a call, writes David Smedley, to ask:

a). Are they aware of the drop in water levels

b). If they knew if there's some water being sourced from a feeder or something else.

The answer was no, they weren't aware, and will look into it.

Concerned about getting stuck

This prompted a further call, to explain that the level is at least 6 inches down, and we're concerned about getting stuck fast, under a bridge, and blocking navigation if we attempt to get going.

We were duly informed that they are now doing all they can, and it's not 6 inches down it's only 3 inches at best. According to the SCADA devices that are usually situated near locks.

I began to further explain that the pound from Atherstone Top Lock to Sutton Stop, is going to require a lot of water, because it also includes the Ashby Canal.

The Lady gleefully told me that the Ashby is not the West Midlands area, so I'd have to speak to East Midlands team instead.

Very good at fencing off

In conclusion, the people who answer the phone at CRT are very good at fending off, problems and boater concerns, and if that means a few white lies, then so be it.

We're going to give it a go early in the morning, as to minimise meeting oncoming traffic, but it's not a journey I'm looking forward to.

Nuneaton is renowned for having a lot of detritus under the water.

Location, Coventry Canal, two miles south of Nuneaton.

Life is certainly Better by Water, but necessarily on the water.