Brian worked in the Bridge Street Offices before the Old Goal re-development. His office window was furthest left on the top floor overlooking the backwater toward the Chandlery.

He has sent a before, during and after photo of the Old Gaol taken from the Abingdon bridge. This was prompted by a comment that Newcomer made a few days ago.

Brian used to look out on Grebes, Moorhens and an abundance of other wildlife.

The flow of the River Thames has been strong over the last couple of weeks and all the weir gates have been open at times. The red boards are out and not many boats pass through the lock.

Only the strongest rowers from Abingdon Rowing Club venture out for river training.

Work continues round the lock, and more animals are expected in time for next season to join the wooden menagerie on lock island. One large animal is already in the garden behind the lock. It is currently in a number of pieces and will have a long neck.

On one side of the small road leading to the lock there is a sign for a planning application for parking and a hut to store canoes. Kingfisher Canoe Club and Pathfinder Youth Canoe Club need this new base as they have to leave their current site, shared with the army, in April. They have gained planning permission for the new site but still need money.

On the other side of the road, and behind the lock house a lot of clearance of brambles and nettles has been taking place. You can now see much further. The wicker fences have been extended round the lock with the help of willow from the clearance.

That land was previously ‘set aside’ but with a new farmer in place the land will be the home of another sort of animal. Wire fences have been added and strengthened around the farm to ensure the flocks of these woolly animals don’t escape.

Spike says … ‘The Old Anchor re-opened its doors yesterday for the second time in less than 12 months. The new female manager, Rebecca, will be living on site with assistance from Lee this week and under the umbrella of the Landlord from The Shepherds Hut over at RAF Benson. They are holding an open night this Saturday for customers to sample their new Tappas menu. The chef is half Spanish and experienced in the pub trade so let’s hope this time it’s a great success.’

The first picture was taken nearly two weeks ago. The second was this afternoon when the fast flow of the River Thames was met by a strong headwind from Culham – producing some waves.