May 30

Gentle day, but a fair cruise. I started at Grappenhall, and am now on the Leigh branch of the Bridgewater, having turned north at Waters Meeting. This is the outskirts of Manchester city. Went by the Kellog’s corn flakes factory (with attendant odour of roasting corn). The scenery has been alternating between rural with ‘green tunnels’ of overhanging trees, with dark pink rhododendrons in bloom. Very tranquil. The alternate is the back end of many warehouses, light industrial buildings, and old brick factories, including the Linotype factory. The history is intrigueing if you have time to investigate.

I intend to spend the day exploring this fringe of Manchester, with a view to return after Liverpool as I await some of my crew visitors. Then, Sunday towards Wigan so I can set up the visit to Liverpool. I hope all goes well with that: it is getting to be busy season, so who knows about availability. I already know I cannot get onto the Lancaster canal until September… There is so much else to do, that I am not fussed.