Until recently I thought this stretch of water was part of the Shropshire Union. It was actually built by the owners of the Trent and Mersey to give themselves the control over the junction of both canals. The resulting row was resolved by naming the canal after the lock keeper.
Built in 1829, the canal is only 154 feet long (about 47 metres), making it the shortest in England. Some say it's the shortest in the world. If you think it's shorter than this, remember that the lock is also a part of the canal and this lock is actually longer than usual.
Question. Why is this lock longer than usual?
If you are prepared to walk 154 feet and 1 inch you can visit all three canals!
This cache is the last to be placed by the Wardle Canal because the placement of another would break geocaching proximity rules. So it's mine, mine, all mine..... Sorry.
As with any cache placed near water take extra care with your little geocachers. The nearby road is very busy. Do not park near the bridge and do not cross the road near the bridge. You can cross under the road using the tow path of MY canal if necessary.
Take a look at the plaque visible from the Trent and Mersey tow path.
Many thanks to The Boat People for supplying the photo.
This area is popular with walkers, joggers, anglers and people on boating holidays. It is also overlooked by residential properties. In fact, you can be muggled from almost 360 degrees. So I will give you a good hint.
The cache is the a plastic canister with log book and pencil stub and sharpener.