This year’s second BCN Explorer Cruise started in Wolverhampton, and finished at the BCN Society clubhouse at Titford Pumphouse, taking a relaxed and leisurely trip via Pelsall Common, Anglesey Basin, Longwood Boat Club (at the top of the Rushall locks), Ocker Hill junction, Walsall Town Arm, and Tipton Green.
Aside from a great time being had by all, there were a series of highlights.
At Ocker Hill, Andy Tidy took us for a walk around the now defunct Ridgeacre Branch, showing us the remains of the dead canal. Fascinating meeting someone else fascinated by this aspect of the history of the BCN – especially someone who knows so much more about it than I do. (I think Felonious Mongoose must have been one of the last boats down the Ridgeacre – and the difficulty and pollution were such that I think that British Waterways (as was) request that boats do not attempt to navigate it is entirely reasonable.) To dredge it would be a toxic waste nightmare.
Thence on to Walsall Town Arm, with its outstanding New Art Gallery from where the photo was taken.
From Walsall most of us went up the Walsall locks to Tipton Green. There most, if not all of us did a quality control check of the beer and pies at Tipton’s historic Pie Factory. The link takes you to see the historic place this renowned factory has in British military history !! (??)
The cruise finished at Titford Pump House, where the Old Swan brewery / pub provided yet more beer to provide quality control on. Passed with flying colours.
Thanks to Stuart and Marie Sherrat for organising an outstanding event.