26th April 2008

For the 2008 day out, LPS spent the day on a narrow boat on the Grand Union Canal in Blisworth, Northamptonshire.

One of the features that attracted LPS were the stories of Blisworth tunnel being haunted. Lights and a tunnel branching off from the main tunnel have been witnessed. The tunnel itself is 2.81km long and straight.

Building of the tunnel began in 1793. Three years later in 1796 fourteen men perished when they hit quicksand during construction.

Rebuilding of the tunnel in the 1980’s used large concrete rings, which were used as a test in preparation for the construction of the channel tunnel in 1988. One of the unused rings is displayed on the bank by the canal at the Southern end of Blisworth tunnel.

The first journey through the tunnel was an unfortunate one for the members on top of the deck as the tunnel was freezing and members ended up getting very wet! The rest of the journey was enjoyable with members trying to get to grips with opposite steering and hard work was put in by some members opening and closing the locks. A stop was made half way to have lunch before turning around and heading back. Members swapped places for the return journey through the tunnel and although it was nowhere near as cold in the tunnel, it was just as wet (much to the amusement of the members now below deck!).

LPS was fortunate to have a warm sunny day to enjoy their trip and it encouraged local wildlife to make an appearance. Ducklings followed the barge with mum and dad close behind. This was highly likely because left over LPS lunches were being offered! On the return journey members also viewed a swan’s nest and plenty of vocal ducks.

When passing through the tunnel each time, one member experienced a headache. Another member heard someone say ‘Enter’ in to their left ear during the first trip through the tunnel. Unfortunately another tunnel did not appear and no lights or other presences were seen or felt.

All members thoroughly enjoyed the day out for 2008 and look forward to the LPS day out 2009.

If you have a suggestion for the LPS Day Out 2009 please let us know!