Low headroom

The gauge indicates the profile part way through the Froghall tunnel on the Caldon Canal. Beyond lies the Froghall basins where limestone was loaded and also the first (restored 2005) lock of the Uttoxeter Canal which was abandoned throughout in 1849.

Most leisure boats do not fit through due to the very restricted headroom but there are some who make every effort to get right to the end of the canal. A friend asked for as many of his mates to come over and act as human ballast and, after filling the water tank to the brim, we successfully navigated to the basin. I have no idea how he got back because after going to the pub to celebrate we all went home leaving him on the wrong side of the tunnel.