Wylo has gone

Wylo the boat – about to leave for Chester

Wylo the boat has gone – but not the man!

Observant towpath walkers will have noticed the the narrowboat Wylo has gone from its mooring. It's now heading for Chester.

Why Wylo? It was named after a sailing clipper from the 19th century.

It's been the home in Audlem for Derek Pearson for the last 21 years. It was also his home for many years before that, when he made and sold boat fenders in the Aylesbury area.

Many people will have talked to Derek over the years across the canal, where he could be seen taking the evening sun with a glass of red wine.

Although still fit, at the age of 85 Derek has decided living on a boat is just too difficult (especially in winter), so he has moved to a flat in the village.

I'm sure we all wish him well.