ValandPete

We have used the above insurers and the breakdown assistance for 2 years and will be renewing again in March. Never had to claim on the insurance but used the breakdown assistance a couple of summers ago. The gear cable went half way up the Wigan Flight and we could not repair it ourselves. The service rang back within half an hour and told us which engineer would be coming out, he was on another call but would be with us asap, and asked us to ring them when he arrived so they would know all was ok. He arrived when he should have and started work straight away. He did not have a replacement cable but said he would get one first thing in the morning and ring us to say when he would get to us. He left about 6.30pm. We were repaired and on our way by lunchtime. We were very satisfied with the efficiency of the service. We were in the middle of a town so it was easy to get to us, but on this experience I have evey confidence of a good service when it woulds be most needed - in the middle of nowhere! I think the service must contact engineers who are local to where you are stuck, he was a local man. We paid the engineer at the time. I think we paid for the part and the labour cost was repaid to us. (We now carry a spare cable ). Val

Lovely boat and ideal for a downsizer too! Val

On the BCN website, at the bottom of the report on the 09 challenge, it says it is hoping to hold the event on the May Bank Holiday Weekend 29th/30th May 2010. Val

Excellent read, hope there is a sequel. Val

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

At the time we bought our boat moorings were scarce but we managed to find the one we are in at the last minute. We were downsizing at the time and we ended up buying a house 10 minutes away by car, and a walkable distance when we want to leave the car at home when we plan to be away for 5/6 months. At the time we still had our son to take into account so have stayed within reasonable distance of family/friends too. We go down to the boat a lot and go out every month, except perhaps Dec and Jan. It is very different to the time before we moved when it was a one and a half hour slog from Derbyshire. We are on the Macc, about an hour from Hardings Junction one way, and the Macc the other, which is lovely for short breaks when we are not heading anywhere. We also enjoy the Peak Forest Canal and have got used to the Cheshire Locks, we know where to stop now and usually do it over 2 days. And friends enjoy helping us up/down them sometimes. The marina is small and friendly, and secure, with all the facilities we need. It is pleasant enough to spend time in. Engineers on site who are helpful. Worked out very well, more good luck than pre-planning, and tho we may move house I dont think we would move the boat. Val

Left our sloe gin/vodka for about 3 months, but agree it would have been fine if it was bottled sooner. Used the jars again to use up the last of the sloes which kept very well in the freezer. Drinking it already - you are very restrained keeping some till Easter! Big unexpected success is the blackberry brandy, transformed own brand supermarket stuff into something delish. Will do some more next year. Not heard about sherry on the sloes tho - how much do you use? Cheers Val

Hi We have owned a Liverpool Boats narrow boat for 3 years next February. We are very happy with her and have had no major problems, good value for money off the shelf boat. We have cruised for the last 3 years over the summer, about 10 months in total. We had her out of the water last month for blacking, anodes in good condition and steel work seems fine. Our cabin paintwork is fine, however the hull was shot blasted (free of charge) as it was caught outside in the wintry weather of 06/07. Val

Great pics, thanks. Will definately try to do the link next year. Enjoy your stay. Val

I have just checked stoppages and it seems that the Red Bull Aqueduct is closed 4 Jan to March, and Bosley flight also closed in Jan so we are marooned on the Macc. I dont think we will be able to make it unfortunately. Will check again, will have more time on Saturday, day off from boat painting. Val

Thanks Liam, hope you are right - and I have a feeling that it is the Marple locks that are shut in January. Oh goody, will confirm within the week. Val