OK; it's certainly been a while, and I'm running out of excuses. Laziness is NOT an excuse ... but it could be a reason.
I'm writing from Stoke-on-Trent, where we're mooring Moonstone whilst we are in Liverpool for the Labour Party Conference and Lyn's birthday ... 'though the two are in no wise connected. Lyn will be enjoying her first time in the city; whilst I explore my socialist conscience! (Anyone who wishes to discuss politics, please do; by e-mail.)
Over the past couple of months we've been based at a funky little marina, on the Eastern outskirts of Greater Manchester. The original plan (such as it was) did not have us so far North, at this stage of our peregrinations. However; a minor medical mystery incurred us being in this area, and that mystery has now been resolved in the happiest manner.
Our geographic location has meant several jaunts up the Peak Forest Canal; taking various Bitish, Canadian and American friends as far as Buxworth and Macclesfield. Bugsworth Basin is a beautifully restored ex-industrial transhipment terminal.
During and after the industrial revolution, large quantities of limestone were required. Much was mined in the hills above Bugsworth, brought by tramway to the basin, and loaded onto boats and barges to be used in multifarious industrial processes. Over the decades Bugsworth Basin became 'surplus to requirements' and fell into a sad state of disrepair. The local pastor of that small community felt that BUGsworth did not sound genteel; so prevailed upon the residents to accept a change of name to BUXworth. When the Basin Restoration Society was formed, the members resolved to reinstate the original name; so BUGSWORTH BASIN is now hard by the small village of BUXWORTH! Incidentally ... the only pub - The Navigation - used to be owned by one Pat Phoenix; (life imitating art); for many years playing Elsie Tanner: the landlady of the Rovers Return, in Coronation Street!
We can only wonder at the lovingly dedicated efforts of such a great group of local volunteers, who continue their work in maintaining and operating the basin; transforming it to this!!!
Had we known that our cruising plans were to develop as they have; we would have taken Moonstone into the famous Albert Dock, and had our home with us at the conference; rather than the airbnb which will be our pied-a-terre. No matter. There should be plenty of us 'old lefties' to raise some union songs in the famous BALTIC FLEET.
All for now, friends, Tom.
