Tuesday, 22nd October
0845 On the road. Camper seemed colder than we expected when we woke this morning - found out that Brian had pushed open the rear window with his feet which ended the night sticking out and waving in the breeze.
1030 Propsteirwald services, near Aachen. This was where Roy had wanted to stop last night - according to plan A. Try to sluice out the water tank, but not much joy. Bill bought a large plastic container fitted with a tap, but it leaked. Took it back and changed it. Much better. Now we can carry fresh water supply again. Roy's attention was distracted while parking the artic. Result - another tractor unit now has a smashed-up cab. Our lorry drivable after pulling out side protector bar using chain attached to 17-tonner. At least nobody hurt. Problem with tilt, which has a tear. Load is therefore effectively unsealed for Customs. Roy thinks we might be able to get it repaired nearer the Austrian border.
1220 On the road again. Pressed on south-east through Germany, past Bonn, Koblenz and Frankfurt. Magnificent scenery - broad-leaved woodland in full autumn colours. Spotted buzzards galore, kestrels, hawks, hooded crows. At one place there was a flock of sheep in an unfenced field beside the motorway. Under trees at the edge of the field was the shepherd, on one knee, with crook and sheepdog. The MacDonalds sign high over his head rather spoiled the rustic picture! Trouble-free drive until after dark, though slow. Top speed 54 mph, just 20-25 mph on the uphill stretches.
1915ish Pull up on hard shoulder. Roy has no lights on trailer. Camper goes on to next parking place, nearly gets stuck in mud. Lighting problem found to be bulb shorting as result of accident. Press on.
1955 Rasthaus Haidt. Had hoped to stop at previous services near Wurzburg, but full to bursting. Tony has heard a lot about Wiener schnitzel and orders one. Next in queue asks for same. Bad luck, that was the last. Couldn't think why one guy was so long in the shower while Tony and Brian waited. Tony in eventually - found dirty mag in bin!
No comments:
Post a Comment