Although on a rainy autumn Sunday most people choose to stay at home and watch the world through their window , the CanalAbility team turned it into a lovely cruise adventure. Nice people, delicious food, a variety of desserts and fruit, the warmth and cosiness of Stort Daybreak was all we needed to enjoy a wonderful day on the river Stort.
Ready to go on board were a few volunteers, CanalAbility staff, the patron of CanalAbility – Paralympic wheelchair racer Anne Wafula Strike and some friends.
The trip started from CanalAbility’s base in Harlow. We headed north past Harlow Mill towards Sawbridgeworth and Bishops Stortford. One of the attractions on the way, apart from the beautiful autumn scenery, was Beckingham Palace – Victoria and David Beckham’s old house.
Just after we had our first cup of tea it was time to pass through a lock. There were more than enough volunteers to help and demonstrate how the system works.
Anne Strike steered the boat just like an experienced skipper!
On the way we even saw the Challenger, our all-purpose boat, coming back from a weekend trip.
After the skippering adventure we had a wonderful lunch and some delicious desserts.
We were so deep into pleasant conversations while the time passed unnoticed.
The sun finally came out. Just in time to admire the nature and wildlife in the river and on the banks before the trip came to a close. Sarah gave a hand in steering the boat and she did a wonderful job!
This trip was proof that there are alternative and more enjoyable ways to spend a rainy Sunday afternoon!
