Greetings mudpeople. Yes folks, after 23 years on the tidal part of the Grand Union Canal Pierre Le Bateau has been forced to come ashore and take root on terra firma. In the end it was not a difficult decision to make as increasing problems with mobility meant that I could only get aboard with great difficulty and get ashore again with even greater difficulty. Social Services did come up with some wild and woolly ideas involving hoists etc., but of course they had no idea what a boat was or where it was moored.

Fortunately during an 8 week stay in hospital for a third femoral bypass Hillingdon council offered me a ground floor flat in sheltered accomodation, an offer I couldn't refuse. So I packed my kit bag and, singing the Farewell Shanty, made my way ashore.

If you happen to be in my address book you will shortly be getting a missive containing my new details, if not PM me and I'll think about it.

Hopefully I'll be able to get along to the odd event ot two later this summer, so look out for the usual bearded suspect on a small red scooter and offer him a pint(never known to refuse).

Regards to all - Pete.


PS: Bribes most welcome - cash or Paypal only.