October 30th – I found myself crossing Chasewater for the third time in as many days. Today, I came along the canal as far as Wharf Lane; hopping off and across the footpath that traverses the north side of the old trotting track. This is a heavily used route by local cyclists since the closure of the canal basin access to Chasewater. The stile at the Chasewater end of the path is a pain to negotiate, and achieves nothing in terms of security (the site is open to vehicles at numerous, more southerly points). I noted with some amusement today as I hefted my steed over the bottom rail, the imprint of oily chainrings on it and the wear they’ve caused. Surprised it’s still in one piece.