Soon after leaving our mooring just past Wood End Lock we entered the land of the potters.  Armitage Shanks and Spode perhaps bring to mind slightly different aspects of this trade. After a chilly start the day turned pleasantly warm and inspite of this being a somewhat industrial area there were many stretches with pleasant views across the countryside.  During the chilly bit Peter was allowed to take to the tiller again.

Shopping in Rugeley was convenient and easy but the Farm Shop at Haywood Junction was a lot more interesting.  The award winning Plum Porter and Guniess and Porter cheese went down very well.

We moored up close to Shugborough Hall and enjoyed an excellent supper of herby loin of pork accompanied by a bottle of Nettie Viognier.  This was followed by cherry pie with custard.  You can see how we are enjoying our evenings.  Please note the beautiful new tablecloth.

En route we acquired a handsome antique boat hook which had been wedged in the bed of the canal awaiting King Arthur (aka Pat) to pull it out with superhuman strength.