BOATING ON THE THAMES

Never underestimate the River Thames on yellow boards - even when the stream is decreasing. Last week we were going upstream and getting ready to moor at Hambleden Lock.  As a boat was coming out of the lock - and had right of way - we couldn't cut across it to get to the moorings. So we stayed on the right and tried to 'hover' in the weir stream. But it's quite difficult to hover in a 27 tons barge and unfortunately we got pushed onto the small island by the current and into a very thick (15cms/6" diameter) branch which smashed through our window. We did everything we could to avoid this but the river kept pushing us back. Luckily we weren't hurt - just a few cuts. But we were shaken - and gutted.

There's always a surprise around the corner on the Thames. This time it was an amphibious boat club: 65 cars from across Europe.  They cause chaos and queues in the locks - but they put a smile on your face.

I know most barges don't have steering chairs - it's just not the barge-y thing to do (you're supposed to be made of sterner stuff). But we spent five years cruising along the Thames in one when we had our little Dutch river boat - see above - and found it very relaxing. Especially on the five hour trips from Wargrave to Goring.  So we decided to buy an adjustable barstool on ebay and managed to get the one in the photo for 0.99p plus £9.99 postage and packaging. I couldn't believe it. It's brand new! But because there's a tiny cut in the faux leather no-one else wanted it. We tested it recently and I have to admit that it has completely transformed my barging experience. When I'm standing at the helm I get restless and fidget a lot. But when I'm sitting down I can - quite literally - sit back and take it all in. What's more, it's multi-functional. Because when lowered, our boaty barstool fits under the dinette table in the wheelhouse or out ...