If the locks were against us then I was not good as locking crew, but if set for us it would be fine as I could manage the winding for filling. I got off a bridge ahead to go and see the state of play at the first lock (lock 6). Excellent news! It was set for us so I could open the gate. Heather joined me at the lock and all went smoothly. Heather and I started walking to the next lock but soon turned and saw Shane was making very slow progress and may even have stopped. I offered to take a rope but it wasn’t possible. He was using all the strategies at his disposal and eventually his degree at Cambridge proved useful, as he used the barge pole to move forward using his punting skills. This unstuck the boat enough to get going again very slowly and at last he reached the lock. He made a similar snail’s pace (actually possibly slower) between the next two. I wanted on to get a snack and drink. Shane was finding the driving pace both frustrating and tedious, and so we swapped. Of course I had the same difficulties over the next 3 stretches, but couldn’t rely on punting as my last resort, not having the expertise or strength. When I came to a standstill, Heather was very encouraging and cows at the side watched with interest. I managed to get going but slowed repeatedly. Reversing helps but does leave you further back! Shane released some water from the next lock and that helped too. I drove round the junction and moored for lunch as soon as possible. We were all very in need of nourishment!