Why is it that the weather forecast is always right when they predict light/heavy rain?!!

The day started with a succession of phonecalls to the furling gear manufacturers and after much successful negotiation and rendezvous arrangements, at Manningtree railway station, resulted in one brand new, shiny "do-da" and fitting instructions on board awaiting fitting by Roger, a.k.a. the Chief Engineer and his deck hands tomorrow when lighter rain is forecast. Wish us luck, taking the forestay off and dismantling the furling gear is new territory. We have instructions, but can't quite read the hand writing!!

Entertainment was laid on courtesy of a great big green crane, a mystery floating doozer (possibly a dredger or underwater vacuum cleaner!) that wanted to go home on a lorry and a large Chinese Junk style boat that was in the way! Well Starbucks provided the ideal venue for observing the whole project which lasted in excess of a couple of hours.

We then went to buy souvenirs of Tower Bridge and returned to eat Helen's caramel shortbreads with a cup of tea, before considering what we do tonight.

Still raining......