Remote controls for lock-keepers

Lazy Days

Lazy Days

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On the Canal du Midi the lockies have been newly issued with natty remote control consoles that they wear slung around their necks. Spoke to the keeper at Trèbes (three chambers, four gates) and he was very pleased with the "très bon" new arrangement which mean he is no longer tied to his pedestal(s). Wonder if we'll ever see them on the Thames?

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View attachment 6984
 
On many of the canals further North in France the locks are fully automated: you are given a remote control at the first lock and after that you are on your own. It works remarkably well and if it gets stuck a phone call from the lock brings help quite quickly. We did the Canal des Vosges and the Eastern branch of the Canal du Marne au Rhin this summer (so far) and hardly saw a lock-keeper.
 
So far as eclusier radio controls go, I took this pic yesterday, 2 chamber lock down to the River Tarn at Montauban, due to open next Spring. Coming up in this, the lower chamber, is likely to be tricky. Very experienced eclusier at the controls here and you can see the result - someone less careful and things could get a bit too exciting.
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Bowthruster remote control

I have just fitted a remote bowthruster controller. Will be really handy when out on the boat on my own.

Chill
 
Dave_Seager said:
Will you be sending the boat out on its own?
Click to expand...

Thats an idea not sure what the range is but it will only go round in circles!!

Used it for the first time today and really pleased, just means you dont need to rush and can take your time.
 
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