The weather in February had been particularly wet and wild, with many of the regions rivers running at record levels and totally unpaddleable. This Sunday however, we were blessed with a rain free day for our paddle along the beautiful Kennet and Avon Canal. 3 canoes and 7 kayaks set off from Brass Knocker Basin for the 5 mile journey to Bradford on Avon and almost immediately passed over the spectacular Dundas aqueduct.

The journey passed through peaceful countryside, with a few cyclists on the tow paths and quite a few moored narrowboats – some filled with hardy types braving winter on the canal. Finally Avoncliff aqueduct arrived, signalling the final push into Bradford on Avon and a much anticipated lunch stop. We disembarked shortly after the Tithe barn and piled into the Lock Inn cafe to order drinks and lunch, which were consumed with enthusiasm sitting outside on the canalside tables.

The journey back felt longer, possibly due to the blustery weather, with one canoe gamely putting up a sail for a while. So it was with some satisfaction that we finally arrived back at Brass Knocker Basin, where after packing up, we retired to the Angelfish Cafe to eat cake and congratulate Mark on organising a fine trip.