We are moving on, and have finished the section of the Trent and Mersey canal that connects the Macclesfield and Staffordshire and Worcestershire canals.
After doing the Caldon canal from Etruria to Froghall and back, enjoying the vintage restored railway alongside the canal,
Churnet Valley Railway station, restored and part of a steam excursion line
flint and bone mill to provide raw materials for bone china, in Cheddleton
we turned south along the Trent and Mersey, stopping at the Wedgewood factory. What changes there! they are demolishing the factory that was purpose -built in the 1930’s and replacing it with new facilities designed to return all Wedgewood production from overseas. A very different approach than most of the pottery companies around. The old factory area will become a large housing estate with expensive executive homes. One way to raise funds!
We have then toured along and turned right to enter the Staffordshire and Worcestershire canal. Pat is regaining her skills at steering the boat, which provides a welcome break for me. We have reached Penkridge, where we will be moored for the night. Tomorrow promises heavy rain, so a market visit, some village shopping and visiting is likely instead of an entire day on the stern of the boat.
ornate bridge on Trent and Mersey canal
