Trip to swarkestone 28/1/12

After my failed attempt at an oil change yesterday - the engines built in oil sump pump failing to work - looks nice (brass) but completely non functional, i decide to take the boat for its first 2012 trip to swarkestone (was going to be weston but not enough time).

Boat performed ok - no evidence of battery problems since one replaced late last summer - no need for a top up charge - i have always isolated the batteries since the flat battery issue last year.

I hope that the lack of anti freeze in the engine hasnt caused any damage - the mild winter will have helped in that respect.

One worrying part about the trip is the unsightly and frankly unacceptable traveller camp at barrow on trent complete with emaciated horses/ponies and human filth on the towpath and in the canal - see enclosed photos - why are the police and RSPCA not involved?

No evidence of hay for the horses (£4 a bale) - there is no grass left in the field.

There were even bin liners full of cans floating in the canal - i suppose the travellers need to be commended as I didnt know they used bin liners.

The media attempts to cannonise this community with reality programmes and the rent a protester defence of this lifestyle choice doesn't wash with me; this is unacceptable, lazy, cruel to animals and a health hazard