The site of Thurlwood Steel Lock only built in 1958 (see date bottom left) and demolished a few years ago.

The contemporary bridge survives.

A substantial stone bridge number, which appears to have had an oval plate fitted over it at one time.

Entering Lock 57 at Hassall Green.

It is clear that the towpath side lock here is the later addition.

Approaching Minshull Lock on the Middlewich Branch.

And then via Barbridge to Hurleston Junction. A strong cross wind held us over to the left as the lock emptied and Martin had to haul the bows over.

Ascending Hurleston Locks. We had no problems here despite Fulbourne's 7' 0½" beam, although we have seen narrower craft get stuck.

Grindley Brook staircase

Rosie

The lock cottage at the top of Grindley Brook

Above Grindley Brook we encountered this 14' wide piling barge. There was not a lot of room for a deep draughted boat to pass.

The Prees Branch junction

We passed wooden Leonard Leigh tug James Loader with ex GUCCCo butty Betelgeuse.

Navigable and unnavigable waters (Blake Mere)

Ellesmere Tunnel

First sight of Pontcysyllte Aqueduct through the trees

Approaching the trough.

Fulbourne in mid-air.

While we were on the aqueduct we got a message that Rupert and Alison on Ben were coming down from Llangollen. As we didn't have time to go further we winded at Trevor as Ben came into sight.

Ben crossing behind us

Martin sits dangerously.

The engine cooling water has a long drop.

Martin reverts to safety, and catches up on editing Navvies.

Approaching Chirk Tunnel I see that the stones of the canal wall appear to be old tramroad sleeper blocks.