Two things happened yesterday afternoon after I’d published the blog. First, we’d just clambered out of the boat to go and see if the ice cream van was still on the other side of the river (it wasn’t), when someone came and said hello. It turned out to be Ann, a regular reader who’s commented a few times and grew up in this area. It was really nice to meet and have a chat with her. The other thing was that two lads used the roof of our boat as a springboard to jump into the river. It made a racket and left footprints on the solar panels, but no harm done. At least it proves these panels can be walked on (although I still wouldn’t unless absolutely necessary).
This morning I had arranged to meet a builder and restorer of traditional Thames Boats for an interview for the podcast. He drove me to his workshop in South Stoke where he’s working on a couple of wooden boats. I came back with plenty of material for episodes.
It was about 11.30 by the time I was back, and we decided we’d stay put. It hasn’t been so sunny today, so the pool, the park, and the opposite bank of the river have been much quieter. We went into town for lunch, and had a look at some of the other parks. In one there’s an Agatha Christie bench, as she lived in Wallingford for the last few years of her life.
Adrian brought Macc back to the boat while I went to look at Castle Gardens, where dogs aren’t allowed. There are more ruins there and big embankments.
I also went to look at St Peter’s Church, the one by the bridge with the pierced spire. It’s not actually a church anymore, but still needs to be maintained as it’s such a lovely building.
Then I walked a bit further to St Leonard’s Church, the oldest church in Wallingford. It’s also visible from the river.
As I was taking photos in the graveyard, a man from a house opposite came across with the keys and opened the door for me so I could see the inside. Not only was it a very nice interior, it was also lovely and cool. Lots of boats have come and gone from the moorings today, but so far at least there’s generally more space than there was yesterday.
0 miles, 0 locks, £12. (61 miles, 23 locks, £104.50)