Hi, Your comments are always most welcome
We were at Yarwell Mill on Sunday, after lovely lunch at Black Horse, Nassington (highly recommended and value for money)and chatted with narrowboat skipper passing through the lock (boat's name escapes me now but my son said it was from a Bob Dylan song). I recounted your story about the dreaded chains. Boat owner didn't know what the chains were for. I guessed they were to hang onto if anyone fell in. There are two rows of chains - one visible when water in the lock is out and the other, higher row, available when the lock is full. Why can't they use rot-proof nylon rope? Wouldn't that be less hazardous to boats but still do the life-saving job when required?
Dear Sue,
It's always great to have the grandchildren visit. I hope you have a grand week with Kiera.
I must congratulate the British Olympians. Your country is really taking home a great number of medals. At last count I think Britain is in third place for the overall medal count.
My rememberance for the day is the time a couple of years ago when you traveled through the Blisworth tunnel to see your grand daughter who was on a school outing at the Canal Museum. I remember the picture of her waving to you from the boat she was traveling on.
Have a great day,
Mark
Andrew and Mark, ----------
Andrew,
Yes well I actually had a reply from the EA chappie
"1. The chains are there for boaters safety and the EA boat safety guidelines state 'narrow boats in particular ,should be fitted with side fenders to avoid the boat settling into the safety chains which run alongside the lock'."
I am quite surprised at that, as it is recommended that fenders should be lifted in locks.
Oddly though, I do use fenders on No Problem through the locks.. but I still got stuck on the chains!! 
Mark,
Yes, I love to have the children around, they are magic!
Our Brits are doing us proud. I target medal tally was 35, and tomorrow we expect to exceed that.. I am loveing it! 
Yep, the pic of Kiera waving from the boat is fond in my memory, she never knew we would be there.. awesome moment Mark.. 
Sue
