Smithy Bridge: A Tale of Two Stations and Enduring Connectivity

Nestled on the Caldervale Line, midway between the bustling metropolises of Leeds and Manchester, lies Smithy Bridge Railway Station. While it might appear, at first glance, to be a modest, unstaffed two-platform stop, its history is anything but ordinary, a testament to the evolving needs of a community and the enduring importance of rail travel.

A Modern Yet Modest Hub

Today, Smithy Bridge Station serves as a vital link for the local community, evidenced by its impressive passenger numbers – 167,000 in 2017/18, equating to over 3,200 journeys per week. Despite its unstaffed status, the station offers essential facilities. Small shelters on both platforms provide respite from the elements, while information boards keep passengers informed. For convenience, ticket machines are available for both purchasing and collecting tickets prior to travel.

Accessibility is a key feature, with both platforms reachable via ramps, ensuring that the station is usable by all. A small car park sits between the station and the picturesque Rochdale Canal, though passengers are advised this is not station property. A defining characteristic of Smithy Bridge is its proximity to the level crossing that carries Smithy Bridge Road, a route leading up to the scenic Hollingworth Lake – a popular local attraction.

From Victorian Origins to Modern Revival

The story of Smithy Bridge Station is a fascinating journey through time, a narrative of closure and triumphant re-opening. The original station, a product of the Victorian railway boom, was opened by the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway in October 1868. This was nearly three decades after the initial line through Smithy Bridge had been laid, extending to Littleborough. For over 90 years, this initial incarnation of Smithy Bridge Station served its purpose, connecting the community to the wider rail network.

However, the mid-20th century saw significant changes in the railway landscape. British Rail, undergoing rationalisation, made the difficult decision to close Smithy Bridge Station in May 1960, a common fate for many smaller stations during this era. For 25 years, the tracks through Smithy Bridge lay silent, at least in terms of passenger services.

But the story didn't end there. Thanks to the foresight and financial backing of Greater Manchester PTE (Passenger Transport Executive), a new chapter began. On August 19th, 1985, a new Smithy Bridge Station, built on the very site of its predecessor, was officially opened. This revival underscored a renewed understanding of the importance of local rail connections and the role they play in sustainable transport and community development.

Echoes of the Past: The Signal Box

Just to the east of the current station, a level crossing marks a spot with a more recent historical footnote. Until 2014, a signal box stood proudly on the opposite side of the road to the station, diligently controlling the crossing. These iconic structures, once ubiquitous along railway lines, are now a rare sight, gradually being replaced by modern signalling systems. The Smithy Bridge signal box, a silent sentinel for many years, was ultimately taken out of use and subsequently demolished, another sign of the ever-evolving nature of the railway infrastructure.

A Snapshot in Time

The accompanying images, captured on a Nikon D3300 SLR camera on a crisp December day in 2019, offer a contemporary glimpse of Smithy Bridge Station. They show a station that, while unstaffed, is clearly well-used and continues to serve its community effectively. They are a visual reminder of the station's present-day function, a testament to its successful rebirth.

Smithy Bridge Railway Station is more than just a stop on the Caldervale Line. It's a living piece of railway history, a testament to the ebb and flow of rail travel, and a vital link for the people it serves. Its journey from Victorian origins to modern revival highlights the enduring value of accessible and well-connected public transport, a story that continues to unfold with every passing train.

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The following is taken from my YouTube channel.

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A Green Oasis with a Storied Past: Exploring West View Park, Halifax

Nestled in the Highroad Well area of Halifax, West View Park stands as a testament to Victorian philanthropy and a cherished green space for the community. Opened in 1896, this approximately 14-acre public park boasts a rich history, intriguing features, and a tranquil escape from the urban bustle.

The very existence of West View Park is thanks to the vision and generosity of two prominent local figures: Mr. Henry Charles McCrea and Mr. Enoch Robinson. Built on the site of a former quarry, the land itself was a donation from Lord Saville. McCrea and Robinson, driven by a desire to create a public amenity, funded the park's development on the condition that the local council would assume responsibility for its ongoing upkeep. This unique partnership ensured the park's longevity and its accessibility to all.

McCrea's influence is also evident in the park's name. "West View," he insisted, was a fitting moniker, reflecting the breathtaking vistas over the Norland Hillside, the distant Pennines, and the winding Calder Valley to the west of Halifax. Even today, these views remain a defining characteristic of the park, offering a sense of expansive beauty and connection to the wider landscape.

West View Park is not just a patch of grass; it's a meticulously designed space offering a variety of experiences. Visitors can stroll through formal gardens, enjoy the open spaces of the play areas, or simply relax on the terrace. It's a place where generations have come to unwind, play, and connect with nature.

A poignant addition to the park's landscape arrived in 1904: a war memorial dedicated to the soldiers from the area who lost their lives in various conflicts. Standing proudly on the terrace area, the memorial commemorates two soldiers who perished in the Afghan Wars (1839-42 and 1878-81) and a significant 73 who died in the South African War (1899-1902). This impressive statue, reaching a height of 76 feet (23 meters), serves as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made. Interestingly, its history isn't without incident; it was famously blown over in a gale in 1937. In the same year, three field guns that originally surrounded the memorial when it was unveiled were also removed. The memorial's historical significance was formally recognized on November 23rd, 1973, when it was granted Grade II listed status, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

While the provided text makes a curious jump to a train station and tunnel, these details appear to relate to a different location and project a sense of confusion when associated with West View Park itself. It's important to clarify that the information regarding the level crossing, stream, bombing during WWII, and Winterbutlee Tunnel pertains to a railway station in the Todmorden area, not West View Park. The photographic details, however, confirm the dates and equipment used for capturing images of West View Park in February 2019, providing a recent snapshot of the park's appearance.

In essence, West View Park remains a vital part of Halifax's heritage. From its philanthropic origins and thoughtful design to its solemn war memorial and stunning views, it offers a blend of historical significance, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities. It's a place where the past and present intertwine, inviting visitors to reflect, play, and appreciate the enduring legacy of a truly remarkable green oasis.

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4 from York

Not the usual haunts in York, I was there just doing some shopping with my wife and daughter in August 2019 and whilst I had my camera to hand, I didn't have the time to get around some of the more popular places in York.

They were taken near Waterstones Bookstore on Coney Street, York. Clicking any of the images should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

Church tower of St Martin Le Grande

Coney Street

River Ouse towards Station Road Bridge

River Ouse towards Bridge Street

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Exploring Walsden: A Station Through Time

Walsden Railway Station, nestled amidst the dramatic Pennine landscape, might seem like a quiet outpost today, but its history is a fascinating tapestry woven with tales of Victorian ambition, wartime drama, and modern resurgence. Though now firmly in West Yorkshire, Walsden's railway story began when it was still part of Lancashire, a testament to the ever-shifting administrative boundaries that define our regions.

A Glimpse into the Past: The Original Station (1845-1961)

The very first Walsden station opened its doors in 1845, a product of the burgeoning railway era that connected communities and fuelled industrial growth. For over a century, it served the village, a vital link for passengers and goods. However, the post-war economic austerity of the early 1960s brought about widespread railway closures, and Walsden, sadly, was not spared. In August 1961, the station shut its doors for good, and the physical structures were swiftly demolished, leaving behind only echoes of its past.

Yet, a tangible piece of that original station endures: a sturdy metal footbridge, erected in 1890. This venerable structure, now providing a crucial connection between the platforms of the current station, is a silent witness to a bygone era. It's a poignant reminder that while buildings may fall, some elements, built with Victorian longevity in mind, can transcend generations. The original station itself was located to the west of this footbridge, stretching towards the entrance of the impressive Winterbutlee Tunnel.

A Troubled Crossing and a Wartime Bombing

The original station also featured a level crossing, a common feature of early railways but one that often brought its own dangers. Indeed, Walsden's crossing was, regrettably, the scene of several injuries and even deaths. The removal of this crossing paved the way for the current station's construction, a move that undoubtedly improved safety for both railway users and local residents.

Perhaps one of the most surprising anecdotes from Walsden's railway past is its unfortunate distinction as the only place in the greater Todmorden area to be bombed during the Second World War. While details are scarce in the provided text, this tidbit hints at the far-reaching impact of the conflict, even on seemingly remote Pennine communities.

Adding to the station's ongoing challenges, a stream runs directly underneath the station, close to the iron bridge. This natural feature, while picturesque, has a less charming side effect: during heavy rains, the station and the line are prone to flooding, a persistent battle against the elements for Network Rail and station users alike.

The Rebirth: Walsden's Current Station (1990-Present)

After nearly three decades of dormancy, Walsden Railway Station was reborn. In September 1990, a new station opened its platforms a few metres east of the original site. This resurgence was a testament to the growing recognition of the importance of local rail links, connecting communities and offering sustainable transport options.

Today, Walsden is an unstaffed station, characteristic of many smaller stops on the network. While facilities are limited to small shelters for protection from the notoriously unpredictable Pennine weather, modern conveniences have been introduced. Electronic information boards keep passengers updated, and ticket machines provide easy access to fares.

The station's viability is clear in its passenger figures. In 2017-18, Walsden averaged approximately 2,100 passengers per week, a healthy number for a village station and a strong indicator of its continued value to the community.

Winterbutlee Tunnel: A Feat of Victorian Engineering

No discussion of Walsden Railway Station would be complete without mentioning the impressive Winterbutlee Tunnel. Located to the west of the station, this 279-metre long tunnel is a remarkable feat of Victorian engineering. It was opened by the Manchester & Leeds Railway Company in 1841, a crucial component of the line that completed the connection between Todmorden and Littleborough. The tunnel stands as a permanent monument to the ambition and skill of the railway pioneers who carved routes through the challenging Pennine terrain.

A Photographer's Eye: Capturing Walsden

The provided information also gives us a glimpse into the art of capturing the station. The accompanying pictures, taken on August 27th, 2017, with a Nikon D3300 camera, offer a specific date and equipment detail. This reminds us that beyond the historical facts and figures, these locations are also subjects of contemporary interest, inspiring photographers to document their beauty and utility.

Walsden Railway Station, therefore, is more than just a stop on the line. It's a microcosm of railway history, a resilient survivor of closures, and a vital link in the modern transport network. From its Victorian origins to its present-day operations, it stands as a testament to the enduring power of the railways to connect people and shape landscapes.

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Manchester direction, the bridge is all that remains of the original station, it was built in 1890. Winterbuttlee Tunnel can be seen beyond.

Winterbuttlee Tunnel from the 1890 Bridge. The original Walsden Station was sighted near the tunnels entrance.

The 1890 metal footbridge is all that remains of the original station at Walsden. There used to be a level crossing where the gate is.

British Rail Class 144 Pacer train at the Leeds bound platform 2.

The steps up and over the 1890 bridge.

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The Enduring Mystery of Settle Parish Church: A Glimpse into the Holy Ascension

Nestled in the heart of Settle, a charming market town in North Yorkshire, stands a building of quiet dignity and intriguing history: Settle Parish Church, officially known as the Church of the Holy Ascension. While its presence is a familiar landmark for locals and a picturesque addition to the town's landscape for visitors, delving deeper into its past reveals a captivating story, albeit one shrouded in a surprising lack of readily available information.

A Rickman Masterpiece in the Dales

The Church of the Holy Ascension bears the distinctive architectural stamp of Thomas Rickman, a name that resonates with those familiar with ecclesiastical architecture of the early 19th century. Rickman, a Quaker convert and a pioneer in the study of Gothic architecture, is credited with establishing the system of classifying Gothic styles (Norman, Early English, Decorated, and Perpendicular) that is still widely used today. His designs, often characterized by their elegant simplicity and adherence to Gothic principles, were a significant departure from the more classical styles prevalent at the time.

The consecration of Settle Parish Church on October 26th, 1838, marked a significant moment for the community. Imagine the scene: the excited congregation, the solemn blessing, and the sense of new beginnings as this impressive edifice took its place as the spiritual heart of Settle. While we lack specific details about the construction process or the local dignitaries involved, the very act of commissioning a church from a prominent architect like Rickman speaks volumes about the aspirations and resources of Settle in the mid-19th century. It suggests a growing population, a thriving community, and a desire for a substantial and aesthetically pleasing place of worship.

An Interior Evolving: The 1998 Remodel

While the exterior of the Church of the Holy Ascension largely retains Rickman's original vision, the interior has seen at least one significant transformation. In 1998, parts of the interior underwent a remodelling. This detail, though brief, sparks curiosity. What aspects were changed? Was it a restoration, an update to modernise facilities, or a reordering of the worship space to better suit contemporary needs? Without further information, it's a tantalizing hint at the church's ongoing journey and its adaptability over time.

Church remodels often reflect shifts in liturgical practice, changes in congregation size, or simply the need for maintenance and improvements. The 1998 work could have involved anything from updating the pews, altering the altar area, improving lighting and heating, or even creating new community spaces within the church. Each such alteration leaves its own layer of history, adding to the rich tapestry of the building's life.

The Enduring Mystery: A Call for Discovery

Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of Settle Parish Church, as highlighted by the original text, is the surprising scarcity of information available online. In an age where digital archives and historical records are increasingly accessible, it's genuinely remarkable that a building of this age and architectural significance remains somewhat of an enigma.

This lack of readily available information creates a compelling opportunity. For local historians, community groups, and indeed, anyone with a passion for architectural heritage, Settle Parish Church presents a genuine treasure hunt. Imagine the stories waiting to be unearthed:

• Who were the key figures in Settle who championed the building of this church?
• What challenges were faced during its construction in the 1830s?
• Are there any surviving archives or local newspapers that shed light on the consecration ceremony in 1838?
• What was the nature and extent of the 1998 remodelling, and what prompted it?
• Are there any unique architectural features or historical artefacts within the church that deserve wider recognition?

A Call to Action (and Exploration!)

While the challenges of physical distance may prevent some from visiting in person, the mystery surrounding Settle Parish Church serves as a powerful reminder of the value of local historical research. For those fortunate enough to live nearby, a visit to the Church of the Holy Ascension offers a chance to connect directly with its history. A conversation with churchwardens, a browse through local archives, or even just an observant walk around the building could unlock a wealth of untold stories.

In a world saturated with information, the Church of the Holy Ascension in Settle stands as a beautiful testament to architectural heritage, a silent observer of centuries of community life, and a captivating enigma waiting for its full story to be told. It reminds us that sometimes, the most interesting histories are those we have yet to fully uncover.

The pictures were taken on August 23rd 2016 using a Nikon d3300 SLR camera. Clicking any of the pictures below should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

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All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.