Cruising from Hemingford Grey to St Ives on a cooler and drizzly day as Thatcher’s economic and Irish plans come under fire and I examine chandlery options and design my Arms

A dull day starting with a very fine drizzle and a sharp northerly wind. A overnight minimum of 57degF and a maximum today of under 70degF. The barometer up to 1029. Later the sun did come out but the wind did keep the day cool, even cold in late afternoon. We were always snug, however, in our sliding cockpit Lady.

First from our mooring in Hemingford Grey, a walk to the newsagent and general store, then a leisurely coffee and read of The Sunday Times. News therein of allegations of Birmingham Police torturing criminal suspects by placing and tightening plastic bags over their heads. Also of an IATA agreement between transatlantic airlines to ease discount fares. The papers are in critical mood over statements by Arthur Scargill and Ken Livingstone criticising Thatcher’s economic and Ireland policies.

In late morning we cruise downstream and through Hemingford lock to St Ives. Both the Waits and Town Quays are full and so we moor at the GOBA moorings on the meadow by the golf course. Lunch of pie salad and fruit and, after a rest, off to St Ivo pool for a swim. After a cruise in our dinghy with outboard,  the long way to L H Jones boatyard for petrol and to look at the chandlery. They are not stocking boat heating systems and there are still not switch taps that I feel are suitable. I do start thinking, however, of a new 60cm dia ships wheel and start measuring on our return to see I could fit one. It has turned quite chilly and we rest up and read books and magazines.

I have today designed a Heraldic Achievement of Shield, Helmet, Mantle, Wreath Crest and Motto that I will seek to get granted as my coat of arms. Tonight the televised Dutch Grand Prix where a new English driver gets his placing points (Nigel Mansell) and then the fourth test match where New Zealand, with five wickets down, are steadily losing to England. Tomorrow St Ives Market.