Down the Severn kayakday11 Sat Sep28 Lower Lode to Gloucester lock 13m120

The muddy banks of the Severn became higher, the landing points fewer.
Over the prior few days and especially today my technique for getting out and back in to the kayak at high fishing platforms improved a lot  - -  an ability that would be tested later.
Again, an interesting chat on distances with a local at a waterfront holiday mobile home:
I "How far to Gloucester ?"
He "About 9 mile"
I "How far back to Lower Lode"
He "About  9 mile"
Lower Lode to Gloucester is 13 miles.
At Upper Parting, took the East Channel to Gloucester lock.
Here I was to hand the kayak back to the hire company.
Here was also a problem.   The only way out was up a steep muddy stone staircase in the wharf wall, with no hand rail.    With no tying up point either, the river flow became very noticeable.   By eventually standing up in the kayak, and maintaining station by holding the steps just through friction, I stepped ashore without losing the kayak.   Then came the 20ft haul up the slippery steps.
A pint to celebrate.
End of cruise.