Travels by Narrowboat - "That Great Boat In The Sky" - S09E07

Gooday and you join Aslan and I as we're about to set off for the first of the 6 locks at Atherstone - something which I could normally tackle with my eyes shut. Unfortunately and purely as a result of my own stupidity, I'll be undertaking this task whilst nursing the 'mother' of all hangovers.
Later and having moored up near Hartshill Yard, I learn of the sudden passing of a gentleman I'd met just 2 days previously - news which has quite a profound affect on me.
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[@deacjansp2]

The gentleman who passed did so knowing there are kind and helpful people on the canals. Well done, my friend. May he rest in peace and rise in glory. And may the canals in heaven be deep, wide and all have dry towpaths!

[@alfredschiess3150]

And automatic locks!

[@fumbleknit719]

@@alfredschiess3150 Operated by sincerely winking at them.

[@lesparks126]

Beautiful episode. And to think you might have caught the last moving pictures of Mr. Cooper (RIP). After 45 years quietly serving on the canal he is now remembered by many for all posterity. Thank you Kevin!

[@CountryHouseGent]

Quite right Les, a privilege to record him in final days doing what he loved, but also carries a certain responsibility I reckon.

[@alysonmcmahon823]

Such sad news to hear the boater who died suddenly x At least , with the helping hand you gave it will have been one of his last memories to show there are still good and kind people in the world x R.I.P

[@OldNickHindle]

I get a little jolt of happiness every time I get a notification for a new Travels by Narrowboat episode 😊

[@CountryHouseGent]

Appreciated Nick, always great to hear from you. Cheers,

[@jacquelineryde7339]

Hope you are over the sugar rush. And things like that dear man passing are a shock when it happens like that, such a shame. Thank you for the Vlog I love you show it as it is and also where it is not advised to moor 👍👍❤️

[@Andolf10001]

RIP Rick Cooper and condolences to his family.

[@CountryHouseGent]

Yes, RIP Rick.

[@halcorb1191]

Good afternoon Countryhouse Gent...I enjoy your vlogs all the way in Sunny Barbados, I am very sorry to hear of Rick's passing....I watched a video about him living and working on his narrowboat a few years ago under the caption.."Coal , Gas and Diesel"...condolences to his friends and family..RIP

[@cynthia-ray]

The fox was there perhaps as a juxposition. It's death was a frightening exhausting struggle. Poor thing. But the boat driver was content and robust. And laid down for his nights rest. He died well. No suffering. No fear or dread or self doubts. A blessing. Just my perspective.

[@Nidhoggrr]

That tiny little narrow boat was cute as hell....... Though I would not have picked baby blue as it's color.

[@ianplummer9061]

Another great watch C.H.G.. we all get the sweet tooth .. just Hope you enjoyed... touching bit about the poor gent who passed... always a shock .... but we sadly just have to pick ourselves up n carry on... keep going CHG..

[@blakehahn-atlantaga8510]

Wonderful vlog Kevin. So sorry for the loss of your fellow boater.

[@stephensellars4945]

Hi Kevin 😀 ive been watching TBN on Amazon since the start, I was going through really bad depression and came across your show on amazon as I was looking for something different to take away how I felt a little, well I haven't looked back since, it really gave me escapism and I related with what you were doing and saying, I've watched every episode of every season and than I thought oh no now what am I going to do ☹️then I thought I know I'll watch them all again from the beginning 😊which I have done 3 or 4 times now, and I've bought a t-shirt and mug from your website 😀 Kevin you really helped me tremendously with your TBN program and I just want to say a big thank you Kevin and I hope Amazon never take down the videos as I won't be able to watch them anymore, I never get bored watching them and love watching the new episodes, it really helps me get through the day even just for that half hour or so, thank you Kevin and Aslan and hopefully many more seasons to come 😀 best program on tv without a doubt 😀 thanks for reading, from Steve

[@MERKAMGCLK]

All is right with the world. Kevin and Aslan are back 🙂 RIP Rick Cooper

[@Elizabeth-tb5oh]

It’s remarkable how profound something like this can hit you. Your brief encounter but meaningful. You had been kind to him. Life is so fragile and the kindness shown puts a sort of exclamation point on it. How we need to be this way always.

[@MissScrappy]

Thank you for another wonderful video! My vision has started to get a bit wonky so your excellent photography and smooth editing is the perfect treat for my eyes. I could even see the slight greenish tinge to your complexion from the double creme.😊 Cheers =^..^=

[@JackNance22]

Thanks for another good one, Kevin.

[@midnightdreemz1509]

😔🙏 RIP Rick. Thank you, Kev for being the empathetic and kind person you are. Godspeed and safe travels to you and Aslan. Tx🇺🇲

[@richardeley7915]

I’m sure that’s the same gent we bought diesel from a year or so back, lovely guy. Make the most of what you have, recently having a retinal detachment out of the blue makes you realise how quickly life can change. Hoping I’ll still be able to steer a boat with potentially only one good eye! Good luck with the Ashby - we tried it when levels were a bit on the low-side and gave up (27” draft), eagerly awaiting next episode to see how you do 😉

[@christopherpeterson1400]

We feel your food pain.. lol sweets and older age,, just can't say no. Hello from SEATTLE

[@conniemckenzie1136]

Hi Kevin, I guess you won’t be in a hurry to have Sticky Toffee Pudding again! I’m sorry to hear of that gentleman’s passing. Sudden death can hit very hard as I well know. On a brighter note, I agree with you, it’s much nicer when you get into the more rural countryside. Some of the views on that stretch of the canal were quite unsightly. Look forward to your next episode. Have a happy Easter. Mind that sugar! Love from Connie. 😮

[@karenkonz3181]

I see other canalboat channels moving to electric but the happy chug chug of Azlan is soooo comforting. Thank you for hangin’ in there!

[@karenkonz3181]

The channel is “narrowboat life unlocked”.Most recent shows follow their building of electric narrowboat at factory.

[@annhamilton2060]

The sound of your wonderful engine is sophomoric I could fall to sleep listening to it gentle purr. ❤

[@littleknitcrocheting]

Hi Paul, and Anthony. Can’t wait to see your new build. It looks fabulous at the moment. Hope you’re both doing okay. Wish you all the best with your new ventures if we don’t see give Dexter a big hug from me. He still looks great for his age. Missy is seven now she’s put a little bit of weight on, we love it in the Marina, we are going down the Llangollen canal, we will probably spend most of the summer on there, stay safe and stay well. Good luck with everything. X

[@georgemanley8247]

Yes, RIP Rick Cooper. That’s how I want to go, in my sleep while I am still productive, no hanging about wondering when the end will come.

[@lesleym6952]

RIP Rick Cooper 😞 doing what he loved to the end. Thanks for another great vlog Kevin x

[@legacystudentschannel]

Thank you again for this. I have shared this video with people who we’re very close to Rick who may not follow you on KZbin. As you know from my previous comments on another video, he was family and I am very touched by your respectful response. I came across your channel by chance and in the first videos I watch I see Rick. And all the kind comments by people who knew and loved him. It has brought me a considerable amount of comfort. And I am able to share the videos too. My eternal thanks and gratitude to you. God bless you. ❤

[@rocknroth764]

Carbs hangovers are the worst! I did it with mashed potatoes! All my best Kevin~Nancy

[@elizabethmaybrown6715]

Shame about the guy on the fuel boat passing away suddenly but he did get to enjoy life first. I have been up the Ashby canal, about nearly 30 years ago but a very nice stretch to travel, enjoy the lock free miles

[@GaryChedore]

The story of the Great Gentleman passing away was so real, you can tell it dumbfounded you Kevin, that shows that you have something very much in common with the gentleman in that you are as caring as he. A quote I always like is "Life is not a dress Rehearsal" Keep the great videos coming thanks Cheers!

[@Setinmywaysalways]

45 years doing what you Love, not many of us get that Kevin.

[@CountryHouseGent]

I read something the other day Robert. A person who does what they enjoy, will never work a day in their life.

[@Setinmywaysalways]

@@CountryHouseGent 😍😍😍

[@deskullz7409]

My condolences to Rick's family and friends. Sad news.

[@barrylawson8744]

His name is Countryhouse Gent, Travelling on a narrowboat so quaint, Through winding canals he makes his way, Enjoying the beauty of each passing day. With a heart full of adventure and a soul so free, He journeys on, his spirit wild and carefree, The gentle lapping of water his constant friend, As he travels on, his journey has no end. From sleepy towns to bustling cities, He marvels at the sights and sounds so pretty, The rustling of leaves and the chirping of birds, Nature's symphony is the sweetest of words. And so he sails on, with a smile on his face, Embracing the journey with grace and grace, Countryhouse Gent, a wanderer at heart, On his narrowboat, he makes a brand new start.

[@thoughtsonfitness3249]

I saw Rick on that fateful day, he dropped off our coal supply for the month. I often travelled to Alvecote Marina to collect supplies from Rick (his base) there too. He was just getting over a shoulder injury and was so elated to be back on his supply boat again. We were just as shocked as you were when we heard the news. Rick was a legend, an absolute gent. I remember having to wait almost an hour for Rick one afternoon, it didn’t matter. He was worth waiting for. Incidentally my car is featured in your video, twice in fact …

[@chrishobbs58]

Your good heart shone through this episode CHG! Very nice tribute to your fallen boater! He, like you, lived his life as he wished. Your obvious joy and sense of wonder cruising the waterways was something I'm sure he shared with you. Thanks for sharing it with us out here, who can only experince it vicariously by living it through you. See you next week!

[@bipti4073]

Despite your sugar hangover, an amazing cruise. People often die suddenly and unexpectedly and it is unsettling. If anything it should reassure you that you’ve chosen the right path following your heart and choosing a less materialistic life. In the end, we’re all dust, and we can’t bring it with us. What matters is our relationships and how we made people feel. You my friend, give a lot (probably without knowing it) to a lot of people. So for that, thank you.❤

[@ThomCurley]

RIP RIck. What a gent. Lovely Ep, Kevin. Really touching.

[@scooter13uk]

I soon as I hit 50 I got sugar hangovers and I hardly touch sweets. Reducing my alcohol consumption meant I fancied a few sweets every now and then. Back on the beer (ish). Fine now (ish). A couple of glasses of what you enjoy will always sort you out. Great vids fella :D

[@61chrish]

Beautiful countryside Kevin but this episode was sad, I'm sad for the little fox and so sad to hear about the gentleman who passed away so suddenly. You're right, you never know. I can see how shocked you were. RIP Rick Cooper.

[@garywillhoit]

Your boatman experience, show the importance of even casual interaction with others.

[@CountryHouseGent]

You're right there Gary. Even brief passing moments can share so much.

[@scottbarry62]

That was so heartbreaking to hear about Rick Cooper. I was tearing up along with you. Two ships that passed in the night really were for him, his last night. There's some kind of a message in that. It's nice that the two of you touched each other's lives for one more warm encounter.❤

[@robertastanger9983]

Igot a very good chuckle of your overindulgence. Sorry to hear about your acquaintance passing. Love all of your narratives.

[@eleanorchapple8772]

I remember that guy and how cooperative and helpful he was to you. May he rest in peace.

[@StephenArbo]

Oh my so sorry

[@OvGraphics]

Howdy Kev! Well it looks like we have more in common that Aldis. Around 8:33 in Atherstone, Jolly Ol' or so you're passing by a large brick building with a buhzillion windows...some of them broken out. Well, if you visit Anniston, Alabama I can show you a couple of buildings that could be long lost brothers. Anniston was a 'company town'....kinda rare, really, which sprang up in 1874. A fellow by the name of Noble rode into town on a horse, cut down a pine forest on top of a hill and established the working town of Anniston. He actually owned it, you see. Along with a goodly deposit of iron ore he had all the makings of a steel town. So happens Anniston is 3 miles from Oxford and 60 miles from Birmingham. (Get the drift here?).... Well, the country had a series of stock market failures and though Anniston produced the wheels for rolling stock (train cars)....it just really never took off... so in a few years the town went public, and it no longer belonged to Noble. Early in the last century, though the area was still producing pig iron etc.....the rage became cotton mills. The buildings here that look like those there were cotton mills. (I'll bet there are mill villages there same as here.) Had to have been the same designer. Uncanny! I always assumed the owners were yankees from NY. Mebbe I was wrong a little by 4000 miles? All the cotton stuff ended when all of our industry went to chiner....Only the buildings are left....and boy, do they look the same! I remember when they were running. I also remember the mill villages....all those shacks are long gone. We had people here who lived and died in those buildings. Many prospered....some faded with brown lung. Seeing that building as you were passing reminded me of all that. How about that?! Your bestest fans in Alabam, Norm and Vicky

[@hildamary4098]

Lovely video Kevin and glad you are okay. Lovely tribute to the gentleman who passed away. See you in next weeks video. Best wishes Helen

[@johnburgess5534]

The Coventry was my least favourite canal. 15 years ago I had lots of debris to negotiate single handed. Supermarket trollies, a huge GPO cable reel about 6 feet in diameter, a 12x8 ft carpet, tree limbs and weeds. A nightmare which I only visited once!!!!!

[@CountryHouseGent]

It's picked up a bit now John. 🙂

[@telmore6490]

Kevin, Thank you for remembering Rick Cooper. The older we get those who pass affect us more than we realize and makes us take stock of our own days ahead. I know this will sound strange to some but I have learned the dead don't like to be forgotten so good on you mate for doing a kind thing.

[@PocketTalk916]

Hi Kevin ... you showed so much compassion for the gentleman that passed ... thank you! Always love your videos. Lane in California

[@MariaReyes-su9wh]

I'm sorry that gentleman's passing upset you ,so, but shows your Compassion for people and life. I wanted to thank you for New travles by Narrowboat the sound of Asland's motor is very relaxing an I Love the sights around your travels. I'm happy to see things are getting better and you're able to film and enjoy working again.

[@tedgalperalper1828]

Life is very uncertain. Forget you had a moment to connect with a fellow boater before he met his end. You were obviously touched by this and that reflects your own humanity. We are all in this together

[@rmsflorida]

See. Always be kind. Sad that it happen. it's upsetting. You did a good thing helping Mr. Cooper out on his finial days ...Your a good man. I'm proud of you... .your are O.K in my book. ......................Robbie

[@concealedcarrycurmudgeon2818]

Kevin This shows what a decent and compassionate person you are. Proud to know you and share your travels

[@CodgerBiker]

Loving the new theme tune. Proper punk ethic to it 👍

[@jamesfriestad3164]

RIP Rick Cooper. Treasure every day!

[@thefitzs]

What an episode this was, Kevin. I laughed. I cried. Seriously, I did. I love how real you are, my friend. Thank you sincerely for that. God bless you.

[@annjarvis9300]

RIP Rick Cooper so sad Kevin to hear of anyone passing all the best to his family hope you ok now and over sugar rush done it ourselves many times always say not again tc now 🤗👍🤗👋👍the oldies

[@DIYGUY1-2-3]

Yep you never know when your times up, live life and enjoy what you like doing

[@donotwantahandle1111]

Death is always hard to take. My neighbour's dog was killed recently. You would never see him without that dog close by. He was a rescue dog too.

[@Balthazar1963]

Once again, enjoyed the vicarious escape through your sharing your adventurous travels on Aslan. It's always a shock when someone you know (even a little) passes suddenly. Greetings from rural Mississippi. :)

[@CountryHouseGent]

You're very welcome, thank you.

[@GodsGiftDaily]

Nice one Kev… I think from what people have posted that Mr Cooper had a good life and had 45 years of fun on the canals…nae bad…nae bad ❤

[@susanhill9166]

R.I.P Rick Copper X X X

[@52memor]

Reminds me of the first time they introduced alcohol beer, remember "Barbican" mate of mine was drinking it because he was ferrying friends and relatives about one New Years Eve. Drank it all night being a good son and friend. He awoke to the biggest hangover he'd ever had. Said "I wouldn't mind if I'd been pissed and having a great time but I was stone cold sober. 🤣🤣🤣

[@CountryHouseGent]

Ah yes Barbican. Basically fizzy sugar water, with an artificial beer flavour. Yack 😆

[@wombat1238marsupial]

The occasional sweet tooth became an avalanche of epic proportions, well that's one hangover at least I've never experienced 😂😂

[@CountryHouseGent]

Yes indeed, I wouldn't wish a sugar and fat hangover on anyone.

[@jules9303]

Top video thank you, always tough to hear such sad news.

[@sylviajelley6995]

The chugging of Aslan brings down my blood pressure x keep well Kevin love the vlogs

[@bigslav5043]

you wear your heart on your sleeve kev like that about you. r.i.p.rick cooper gone too soon but good way to clock out. done the sugar thing too, those mountain shaped chocolate bars the size of a fence post in the duty free at airports. thanks for sharing.

[@Lynette21122431]

Kevin, thank you for taking me along for this particular cruise. You’ve reminded me of the impact of what we eat on our minds as well as our bodies. You’ve reminded me of the importance of life, how to care about those who just join your life for a short time, and how to carry on while you honor them. See you next time.

[@northwalescoast7911]

A very sad ending to the vlog...it would have shook me as well, we never know the moment...RIP unknown boatman.

[@johnwalker3263]

If we remembered that each day is a gift from God I think we’d all have a fuller life and treat one another better!

[@noelandrews8209]

The song at the beginning of your video is brilliant Kevin

[@CountryHouseGent]

Cheers Noel

[@danielgoulding4623]

I'm also quite happy every time you have a new episode come up. Kevin and melancholy when it's over all too soon.

[@geoffreygoodyear3746]

Well rest in peace Mr Rick Cooper🙏🙏🙏..im sure he was at peace in his work on the canals. P.s. on the sticky toffee saga...2 words..PORTION CONTROL🤣👍

[@dereksmith6126]

No need to be sorry for Rick Cooper. Imagine how he would have been living to 90 living most of that cooped up in a retirement home. He would have hated it. I hope his family celebrate his free lifestyle and his ability to live on the canals right to his last day. He passed happy. Thank you to Mr Cooper for doing something most of us don't.

[@mikemalo47]

But so good at the time.

[@lesleywallace5748]

Condolences to that man's family, his life was memorable to say the least ,🇳🇿🇳🇿🇳🇿🇳🇿Rest in peace

[@legacystudentschannel]

Thank you ❤

[@suzannebigbee7596]

It is funny that you describe how you were feeling as a hangover. Last week I commented to my daughter that I felt like that. It seemed funny at the time but it was from over eating a decadent chocolate mousse. I try really hard to not eat too much, as I age. I kinda like feeling slightly hungry. Good and safe travels!

[@rebeccadees2300]

So sad. Life can't be taken for granted. Prayers 🙏🙏 for his family and friends.

[@caz-nbgalatea1528]

Awww that’s sad about the Fuel boat man…. At least he had a great life and you had the chance to meet him…. Albeit… briefly 🙏

[@CountryHouseGent]

Indeed, it was a privilege to be able to record and share part of his final days doing what he loved. 🙂

[@kcwheeler6403]

Hey Kevin,trying to understand a passing person is always difficult. In this instance it would seem to be overnight/next day. To cross over in ones sleep is a blessing.....hopefully that is the case here. Love your videos ....never stop. All the Best...Kirk

[@CountryHouseGent]

Yes nice and peacefully during sleep, completely unaware. That's how I'd like to go.

[@jroar123]

I know you did not photgraph the dead fox and I feel for the little guy and you are right about that being Nature. Without death, we cannot have life. When you look at the sheep, cattle, or chickens, it's important to realize that we eat meat.

[@Mainstayjay]

Today is a good day, it's new episode day for Travels by Narrowboat! As always it's a pleasure to come along for the ride!

[@6360carolyn]

My husband always tells me, “when it’s your time, it’s your time “. This is so true. None of us knows.

[@russellsprout2223]

Beautiful, sobering, totally engaging, heartfelt video. RIP Rick Cooper.

[@CountryHouseGent]

Thank you kindly Russell.

[@apolloj23]

Blessings, Rick.

[@rogermitchell8142]

Thanks for another great vid

[@theleftyboater]

RIP Rick cooper. My condolences to his family

[@daveandemmaoutdoors3171]

Nothing beats an episode of Travels by narrowboat and a good feed at the same time 👌

[@candyboyer]

Wow that is a shock about that gentleman, I did not see that coming. Totally agree, people waste so much of their time in life. I know I've become a "regular" when I begin to recognize the names of some of the upcoming towns 😉 Can't wait til next episode Kevin!

[@Nook747]

17.24.........There's a lot of this sudden death going about Kevin...Very sad indeed ..RIP working boat man

[@Dave-kw7jq]

Plus I lost a good friend yesterday.. I knew Chris was ill but... He was ok a couple of days back.. blink of an eye Kev..

[@tracyruth4247]

RIP Mr. Cooper, and also the little fox! 🙏 A sad reminder of how fragile and short life truly is! Don't sweat the small stuff....enjoy every moment 👈😊

[@Michael_Scott_Howard]

RIP Rick.. Death is a sorry reminder to us living that life is such a gift from God.. Enjoy each day.. I lost 2 co-workers only 16 months apart.. both from heart attacks at work. I shall never forget the sight, one 51, the other just 38... shock.. I still recall it just like it was yesterday but is now over 25 years later.

[@baronblimey]

I used to buy stone from Hartshill quarry in the early eighties. The quarry manager was a real character and could, and did, frighten me to death. Commiserations for the loss of the supply barge owner. Life will go on.......

[@gendigg]

Sorry about the passing of the gentleman. May he rest in peace indeed. This video is a good reminder us of how the living of life in things that matter are what's important. And as well, the fox... it keeps it all real. Thank you for another journey and keeping it real.

[@bennoben1653]

Great video Kevin , very sad news on the old gentleman.RIP and god bless him .🙏 Take care , catch you on the next one 👍

[@larisal1500]

Live and learn Kevin with the overdoing sugar/fat. We all do it at some point. The gentleman who passed is fortunate he didn't have a protracted illness & end up in a nursing home. He is at peace now & we all choose when we go consciously or subconsciously. Lovely filming of the scenery & bldgs. & great job of editing. Enjoyed being your guest on Aslam today!

[@stevesrepairs5778]

Thanks Kevin, for taking us along on this great cruise, it's a shame that Rick Cooper passed away when he was still working hard on his fuel boat, poor chap, RIP. Take care and all the best. Stevie

[@martyb3783]

Death is always sad, even when its just a brief acquaintance. It obviously shook you up. I really feel bad for you. A work colleague of mine unexpectedly died recently. I didn't know him well, and didn't really like him, but I was sad for days after he passed. Like you said, it makes you appreciate how fragile life is. Great video as always Kevin.

[@marionjohansson4235]

what a shock......

[@CountryHouseGent]

It was that for sure Marion

[@robertcallander1065]

Life is too short mate ❤️enjoy your self while you can you never know 🥰🥰