Now, this is the first time that I have set off on the boat when it has been pouring with rain - there has to be a first time for everything, I suppose - and it does not make journeying alone the most easy of activities. I have got quite used to operating locks by myself, but they become quite significantly more dangerous when everything is slippery with rain.
Hinksford Lock was the scene of my misfortune, when my windlass slipped off a shortened lock winding stub and clouted me on the forehead above my left eye. Blood everywhere! I have to be so thankful that it did not hit a couple of millimetres lower, when it would have smashed my spectacles and maybe worse.
It is even more difficult to operate locks and steer narrowboats when one is holding a blood-soaked handkerchief to one's eyebrow in an effort to staunch the flow!
The flow eventually eased and I reached the junction without further major incident. I had decided to go slightly past it and use a mooring at Stewponey Wharf for the night, which made it easier for Gwyn to come over and bring a few things that I had forgotten, and also some sticking plasters!
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