QEOP to Tottenham

Back from Wales I felt the need to do an impromptu patrol to get back into the swing, and also to test out a slightly different set-up on my bike (I've moved around where I carry my bike lock for quicker access.)

I started from the Wallis Road (Hackney Wick) footbridge from the Olympic Park, cycling down to meet two police constables who were considering a boat moored there for sale. I strongly advised against buying a boat in London on the grounds of price and overcrowding.

Abandoned tent of a rough sleeper on the towpath next to QEOP.

A little way down the towpath, this abandoned tent was still tied to the fencing. This has been there a few months now, and isn't occupied, so I sent in a report asking for its removal.

Rubbish by the towpath and overflowing bins are always a regular concern. It was slow going getting to Wick Woodland, as I sent in report after report.

Bloke sleeping by the canal.

And outside Here East, an actual rough sleeper, wrapped in a filthy duvet and sleeping in a warm patch of sunlight by the canal. I didn't bother him directly, but moved down the towpath a way and phoned in another report.

The day was bright and sunny though, and there were a few highlights. There were patches of canal-side open where boats could moor through Hackney Marshes, no longer quite as jammed-pack as it has been. The towpath through Tottenham has reopened where the Overground bridge was rebuilt, and has fresh tarmac, lush green grass, and a shiny new litter bin.

Markfield towpath, on a lovely day.

At the Lea Rowing Club I stopped for a medicinal custard donut and tea. The cafe was doing good business in the bright Spring sunlight, and the spot looks like an ideal place to hold a weekend Share the Space event. I must suggest it to Darren Starling next chance I get.

At Tottenham Lock I helped advise a boater who had got sideways-on to the lock, and who was asking for some help, how best to steer their boat into the lock chamber. Cue some thanks!

It's not all reporting issues and rubbish, thank goodness.

2 hours.