Oil change done

Oil change done this afternoon - no mishaps apart from getting oil everywhere. Safety arranged for mid April so time to renew the licence if it passes. I had a go at repairing the paloma but the solder wouldn't stick - might leave it for now - the crack is in an awkward place on the side of the pipe.

Post winter snag list

First visit to the boat for a few weeks. A bit of mould on the outside due to the damp spring. We filled the water tank and then discovered, on engaging the water pump, a split in the cold water feed pipe in the Paloma water heater - this is anoying as I always drain it down in the winter.
The boat started ok and we took it for a run to midland chandlers for a few service items. Bought an oil filter for the service and a plastic joint to enable bypass of the paloma heater. I also asked if they were having a sale soon. Aparently the next 20% off sale is 10 April 2015 so I will buy hull blacking and new anodes then. I will take the boat out at Swarkestone boat club in May this year (March in 2013) so the blacking will go off better. I will also use international inter tuff this time rather than midland chandlers own make which is not very durable.
We turned the boat opposite the board walk on the way out of Mercia Marina - the new pub pictured has had mixed reviews and is apparently not that popular with boaters being a bit pricey and having a small menu.
The paloma heater is no longer connected to the water pump - it took a bit of heat to remove the hoses. To be fair I rarely used it anyway, but, I will repair the split by closing it with pliers and melting a bit of solder over it.
The boat safety is due in a few weeks so I might have to remove the gas supply as well - not sure if closing the gas isolation tap to the boiler will be sufficiently safe for the examiner.
Going to be an expensive year despite reduced use of the boat due to lack of time and an aeging unreliable engine.
No plans to sell up yet due to the mooring at Findern and excellent storage and parking facilities.