Oh what a lovely reply, thank you!
The pipes are to stop the floating islands of water lillies and general flotsam clogging the banks up. You could come over, moor up the narrow boat and do some yoga on the octagon!
I hope you and your lesser half have got your engine troubles finally laid to rest and can continue your adventures along the waterways. I'm looking forward to you meeting up with the Foxes Afloat and forcing them into starting a Hive account!
Best wishes and stay safe both of you :-)
(In 3 months time, that will be amended to ' best wishes and stay warm' lol)