So here they were, new crew arrived and straight into the pub. The new manager of the FMC pub is planning to extend the FMC theme and is busy collecting memorabilia.

Friday saw us away at 8:15 and down the Beeston Canal anticipating the run down the Trent back to the National. We weren’t disappointed, with little traffic we breasted up at Beeston Lock and ‘Sterling’ back behind the accelerator, the plant was cranked up to 120 on the steam chest. I think that means we were flat out, for a short time anyway. We were slightly delayed entering Cranfleet Lock and not noticed by the crew a swan had got in front of the boats as we entered the lock.  After splitting the boats from and back the swan escaped out of the lock. Alan was on the front of the Kildare during this activity, at a cost he was to find out. For anyone who has traveled this part of the Trent will know that there a baffles on the gate paddles as the water is so fierce. Unfortunately the captain didn’t wait until Alan had moved from the front of the boat, lifted the paddle and Alan was covered with water from his knees down.

Singled out for the turn from the cut on to the Trent and around to the Soar was exciting to say the least. A combination of wind, water and small boats all added to the fun. At one point turning into the Soar, I’m sure President was healed over at 45 degrees.

The remaining short section to the National site saw us moored inside of a pontoon and stationary for the weekend.

Nick Haynes