Open Canoe Trip – River Dee – by Bardia K
A great turnout as 14 paddlers, including some novices, took to the water at Farndon in a dozen open canoes. With a light breeze on our backs, we set out on the ten-mile journey to Eccleston Ferry.
No sooner had we set off than the grey skies above us began to pour with rain. Bailers and sponges were deployed to good effect, with some bailed water cheekily finding its way into the canoes of others! Spirits remained high despite the subpar weather. Good progress was made until a decision was taken to stop for a break and wait out the worsening rain under the boughs of an inviting oak tree (credit to eagle-eyed Joyce). So accommodating was the chosen tree that all 12 boats nestled in beneath it quite comfortably, with Dave S firing up a small stove aboard his vessel to enjoy a well-deserved brew – and why not?
After bailing more water, as well as some acorns, we set off again with renewed vigour into more favourable conditions, the rain only intermittent now. Long-tailed tits were heard in the canopy above, and a singular, sullen, sodden-looking buzzard was sighted on the carcass of a fallen ancient oak.
Before long, we had made it to the iron bridge at Aldford, signalling that we had reached the Duke of Westminster’s estate and were nearing the end of our journey. Paddlers were treated to the magical sight of two white hart (deer), replete with magnificent antlers, only a stone’s throw from our final destination.
Kind thanks to Mike Alter for organising such an enjoyable and memorable trip.
