I spent several days in Kidderminster, partly because the place is quite interesting, and partly to do some work in the boat.
Kidderminster is the center of carpet manufacturing in Britain. At one time, the manufacturing was THE industry, and employed many people in more than 20 factories. Most are closed, though some of the former factory buildings remain in other uses: the big one beside the canal is now an hotel and shopping complex, and another is still warehousing for all sorts of businesses.
I also spent a day as a tourist on the Severn Valley Railway. This is a cross-country line, abandoned in regular service in the 1960’s when British rail underwent a complete rationalization and many lines closed. The line is now just for steam and heritage diesel trains, just for fun. Run almost entirely by rail enthusiast volunteers, the trains looks like those used for the Harry Potter movies. The engine is relatively small (no large hills or great speeds here) and the railcars vintage from 1930’s – 1960’s. I was in a compartment that was almost exactly like the one in the first Potter film. Neat! I explored Bridgnorth (sic) and Bewdley along the way. Very interesting. I took some pics and video, but am having a VERY difficult time in posting directly, so here is a you tube link for someone else’s video to give you an idea. I rode all of the steam trains (you get on and off along the way if wanted). http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g2W115dQXRE
I have finished the installation of the composting toilet (I know- the most important info you didn’t really want to think about). Also got some insulating plexiglass for the roof hatch, and a flagpole for the tillerbar. I am preparing for colder weather, as I am sure the really great weather I have experienced cannot last forever!
I met a friend (Sue Blake) who we had met in March at Devizes- we shared a trip up the Caen Hill locks). She stopped in for coffee on her way to a tall-ship experience in London. It was great to have a chat with one of my new British friends.
Then, on to Stourport and the end of the Staffs and Wusts canal. I spent the night in windy weather here, then onto the big river: the Severn. Very docile and nothing unusual at all, but I’m told this can be a very different experience when the water is high. It has been dry for a while, so summer river lazy days. I am spending time in Worcester, where I went to evensong in Worcester Cathedral last night, and will explore the city center today.
