Bodgers

Sounds good to me!

Many thanks for your replies; lot's of reading to do! The Ashby canal might be the best to try as a total beginner, and there looks to be more interesting places en route than I'd thought there would be. I'd imagine that July and August would be busiest? Maybe September would be the best time and hopefully still pleasant weather. Thanks again.

I'd like to try a boating holiday, but I've never been on one before (well, only as a passenger on a commercial short trip). Is it easy to 'drive' a boat? I'd want it to be relaxing and so I wouldn't want it to be too much of a worry - or get in other people's way! Any suggestions on pretty locations? I like the countryside of the Welsh borders, but I suppose that's got lots of locks? As you may have guessed, I'm starting at the bottom, knowledge wise!

So, you're a mature man, not a youngster just starting out, presumably in good health and with a trade which is in demand and yet despite you saying ' I am 32 and still live at home with my Grandparents:blush: who are 80 and 81. Property prices here are very affordable. They will be lucky to buy a flat.' you'd still accept £20,000 from them leaving them only possibly able to buy a flat.