WET & WINDY

FRIDAY 8th MAY 2009

As we breakfasted the rain was replaced with blue sky, a little walk to discover the local environment seemed like a good idea. As we climbed out of the boat there were more dark clouds looming, but we decided to ignore them, however we did grab our waterproof jackets as a precaution and were we glad we did. We only got to the other side of the bridge, when the first drops fell, just enough time to get the jacket hoods unfurled, when the hail arrived. Within seconds our bottom half was soaked through and we sheltered under the awnings of the pub before the last dash back to SKYY.

For the second time, blue sky emerged and it stayed blue, but the wind was stronger than ever, at about 25 mph and the twisting route of the river made our voyage to Radcot challenging. Feet braced, holding onto cap with one hand and a firm grip of the tiller with the other, even the swans were having difficulty today and the cattle were being driven down to the waters edge. I really appreciated the sheltered calmness of the three lock cuts that we passed through. Our mooring for the night at Radcot was greatly assisted by the help of an off duty lock keeper, who was living on his narrow boat nearby. Tonight, we did seek refreshment in the very aptly named Swan Hotel that nestled beside the bridge.

There are two bridges at Radcot. The main one that we will pass through tomorrow, a single arch affair was built in 1787. The other three arched bridge, is the oldest on the Thames, also having been built in the 13th century, which is why the one at Newbridge, is called the Newbridge, kind of makes sense now.

Jacquie wondered who it was who discovered that ‘arches’ were so effective in holding up bridges etc. and then realised that she already knew who it was ‘Archimedes’ obvious init.