More Canoeing and Paddle Boarding on the Chelmer

Friday just gone was the hottest day of the year so far with temperatures peaking at around 34 - 35 degrees!!!! Needless to say we decided to head out on the water with some factor 50 on to try and keep cool. It was hard work setting up and packing up 2 canoe's and 2 paddle boards in that heat, but once set up we had a fantastic time messing around on the river.

The kids were given the choice of paddling from Boreham up to Papermill Lock for a cake and coffee, however they really wanted to go in the opposite direction like last time to head to towards the Springfield lock where we could picnic and they could jump in the water from the side of the lock.

Holly still hasn't grasped paddling so I had to tie a toe rope to her canoe to pull her along. But having said that once we were at Springfield lock she decided to have a go at paddle boarding using one of the boys boards and actually did really well.

How to keep cool in 35 degree heat, me and the kids enjoying some time down on the Chelmer.

Just beautiful.

Joshua tends to go on his knees more than standing lately. I am wondering whether he has already outgrown this board and needs an adult one!!!

Holly is trying to learn to paddle a canoe, but isn't quite there yet.

Stunningly clear and still waters on such a hot day.

And just beautiful scenery along the river banks. Such stunning colours.

Under the foot bridge which Joshua is still contemplating trying to jump off of!

More stunning scenery enroute.

Springfield lock was like a holiday camp with dozens of people camped up for picnics and chilling in the water.

Holly immediately climbing the lock and jumped in.

Then Brandon...

...and then of course Josh has to go even higher.

Splashdown.

Action shot of Holly mid air.

Brandon takes his sister out on the paddle board.

Then Joshua takes her out for a bit.

Then bravely Holly decides to try her own hand at paddle boarding,

She was finding the balance hard standing so we got her to go on her knees which was better.