A Journey Across History: The Kincardine Bridge

I've just uploaded a new video to YouTube showcasing a crossing of the Kincardine Bridge in both directions, filmed in November 2019. This bridge isn't just a convenient route; it's a fascinating piece of Scottish engineering history!

Connecting Communities Across the Forth

The Kincardine Bridge spans the River Forth, located approximately 25 miles northwest of Edinburgh. For a long time, it was the closest road crossing to Scotland's capital until the Forth Road Bridge opened its lanes in 1964. Even today, the Kincardine Bridge serves as a vital alternative crossing to both the Forth Road Bridge and the newer Queensferry Crossing whenever they face closures or restrictions due to accidents or severe weather. This vital link connects the boroughs of Falkirk and Fife, facilitating countless journeys every day.

A Tale of Ingenuity and Unexpected Delays

Construction of the Kincardine Bridge took place between 1932 and 1936, under the watchful eyes of designers Sir Alexander Gibb and architect Donald Watson. Its opening was even delayed due to a dramatic incident in February 1935, when a steamship unfortunately crashed into the ongoing construction!

The decision to build the bridge was driven by a significant increase in traffic at Stirling Bridge, which, prior to the Kincardine Bridge, was the nearest crossing point on the Forth (other than by ferry). Traffic levels at Stirling had surged from around 150 vehicles per hour in 1922 to over 400 per hour by 1932 – a clear sign that a new solution was desperately needed.

One of the most remarkable features of the Kincardine Bridge was its central 364ft section, designed to operate as a swing bridge. This allowed ships to pass through to the Port of Alloa. This swing section remained in use until 1988 and was finally locked shut in 1989. While the mechanics are still present to operate it, it's highly unlikely it will ever swing open again.

The bridge itself boasts an impressive total length of 2697ft and was constructed at a cost of £327,000. While it's still very much in use today, its role as the primary bridge crossing was taken over in 2008 by the Clackmannanshire Bridge, a more modern marvel that cost a substantial £120 million to complete.

So, the next time you cross the Kincardine Bridge, take a moment to appreciate its rich history and the significant role it has played in connecting Scotland. 

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A Driver's View: Exploring the Scenic A40 from Ross-on-Wye to Monmouth

I've just uploaded a new video to my YouTube channel, It's a drive from Ross-on-Wye to Monmouth, captured entirely from my DAF XF truck. If you're a fan of scenic drives, you're in for a treat.

This particular stretch of road is, in my opinion, one of the most beautiful in Britain. The video covers approximately 12 miles, starting right from the end of the M50 motorway. We then cruise along the A449 and A40, finally completing the journey just after emerging from the Gibraltar Tunnel at Monmouth.

What makes this video a bit different is the perspective. Because I was in my truck, the dash cam footage gives you a higher vantage point than my usual videos. You really get to see the landscape unfold from a unique viewpoint.

It was a fantastic drive, and I hope the video conveys just how stunning the scenery is. Whether you're planning a trip to the area or just enjoy a good virtual road trip, I think you'll really appreciate this one.

The video was filmed on Wednesday January 29th 2020.

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Cross Hills to Colne, An Early Morning Drive Through a Rural Setting.

I've just uploaded a couple of new dashcam videos to my YouTube channel, both featuring a trip along the A6028. This journey takes us from the level crossing at Cross Hills, West Yorkshire, all the way to the outskirts of Colne, Lancashire.

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Video 1: A Real-Time Roll Through Cross Hills

The first video is a short, real-time clip that focuses on the drive through Cross Hills village. It's a quick glimpse of the immediate area around the level crossing, giving you a feel for the local surroundings as we start our adventure.

Video 2: Time-Lapse Dawn Drive to Colne

The second video is where the real magic happens. This is a 4x speed time-lapse of the entire journey from the level crossing right through to Colne. You'll see us pass through charming spots like Glusburn, Cowling, and Laneshawbridge. What makes this particular drive interesting is the lighting: we started in near darkness as dawn was just breaking behind the wagon. So, while the video begins with a distinctly nocturnal feel, the early morning light gradually floods the landscape by the time we reach our destination.

It's a fantastic way to see the transition from night to day and experience the changing scenery of this cross-county route. Let me know what you think of the videos in the comments once you've had a chance to watch them

They were filmed on my dashcam on Friday 29th November 2019.

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Scenic Drive Through Ryburn Valley: Scammonden to Sowerby Bridge Pt 3, Pt 4 and Pt 5.

Ever wonder what the winding roads of the Ryburn Valley look like from the driver's seat? I recently took a beautiful walk around the lake beside the M62 and decided to capture the return journey, transforming it into a five-part video series. It was a perfect opportunity to showcase the stunning landscapes and charming villages we passed through.

This video series takes you on a journey from Scammonden all the way to Sowerby Bridge, tracing the Ryburn Valley and passing through picturesque spots like Barkisland, Rishworth, Ripponden, Triangle, and Kebroyd. Each clip is set to music, making for a relaxing and visually engaging experience.

Part 3 features 2.1 miles from the western edge of Rishworth to the centre of Ripponden, West Yorkshire and last's for 4min 27secs.

Part 4 is the 1.5 miles stretch from Ripponden to the western edge of Triangle and is 3min 2 sec long.

The final part 5 covers the 1.9 miles from Triangle to Wakefield Road, Sowerby Bridge and last for 4min 18secs taking in the centres of Triangle and Sowerby Bridge.

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Scenic Drive Through Ryburn Valley: Scammonden to Sowerby Bridge Pt 1 and Pt 2.

Ever wonder what the winding roads of the Ryburn Valley look like from the driver's seat? I recently took a beautiful walk around the lake beside the M62 and decided to capture the return journey, transforming it into a five-part video series. It was a perfect opportunity to showcase the stunning landscapes and charming villages we passed through.

This video series takes you on a journey from Scammonden all the way to Sowerby Bridge, tracing the Ryburn Valley and passing through picturesque spots like Barkisland, Rishworth, Ripponden, Triangle, and Kebroyd. Each clip is set to music, making for a relaxing and visually engaging experience.

We're kicking things off with Part 1, a 4-minute and 7-second clip. This segment covers the initial 1.1-mile stretch from Scammonden to Withens End Lane in Barkisland. Get ready to see the early views of this scenic drive!

Part 2 takes in the 1.2 mile stretch of road from Withens End Lane to the edge of Rishworth, climbing down the valley and underneath the dam head of Booth Wood Reservoir. This clip last again for 4mins 7secs.

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The Tyne Tunnel, North and South.

Ah, the Tyne Tunnel! It's more than just a way to zip under the river; it's a fascinating slice of engineering history and a vital artery connecting communities. Let's delve a little deeper, shall we?

That stretch of the A19, about seven miles west of the bustling heart of Newcastle upon Tyne, dips beneath the majestic River Tyne, offering a crucial link between the vibrant town of Jarrow on the south bank and the coastal charm of North Shields on the opposite side. But the road tunnel we know today is just one piece of a larger vision conceived to bridge the Tyne.

Back in 1967, the original tunnel emerged as a testament to ambitious engineering, providing a much-needed road crossing. However, the story doesn't end there. The project was actually a forward-thinking initiative that envisioned a trio of crossings, catering not just to vehicles but also to those on foot and bicycles. Imagine the foresight in planning for such diverse modes of transport!

Fast forward to 2011, and the landscape changed significantly. To the east of the original bore, a brand new, twin-lane tunnel was completed. This wasn't just about adding capacity; it was a strategic move that allowed for a much-needed refurbishment of the original tunnel. Now, the two tunnels work in tandem, with the newer one efficiently carrying southbound traffic, while the meticulously restored original handles the northbound flow. This clever configuration has undoubtedly eased congestion and improved travel times for countless commuters and travellers.

And then you, with your dashcam on the 29th of March, 2018, captured a moment in the life of these vital tunnels. The main video, showcasing the northbound journey, with the southbound perspective neatly overlaid – that's a really interesting way to visualize the parallel paths these tunnels take. Adding background music likely enhances the viewing experience, perhaps adding a sense of motion or atmosphere to the everyday commute.

It's quite something to think about the sheer volume of journeys these tunnels have facilitated since their inception. They're not just concrete tubes under a river; they're lifelines that connect people, businesses, and communities on both banks of the Tyne.

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Cruising the Clyde Corridor: A Driver's Perspective from Port Glasgow to Uddingston

The stretch of road connecting the industrial heritage of Port Glasgow to the more suburban landscape of Uddingston might seem like a straightforward hop across the central belt of Scotland. Clocking in at roughly 27 miles (or 43 kms), the journey is predominantly a ribbon of modern infrastructure, stitched together by the A8, M8, and M74 – a trio of motorways and dual carriageways designed for efficient transit.

For those behind the wheel of a wagon, as I was on that somewhat un-summery August 14th, 2018, this translates to a travel time of around 34 to 40 minutes when the traffic gods are smiling. And thankfully, on that particular day, the roads were indeed serene, even if the skies above weren't exactly radiating summer cheer.

But beyond the straightforward efficiency, this route holds fleeting glimpses of Scotland's character, particularly in its early stages. Just 43 seconds into the drive, as you merge onto the A8, the landscape opens up, revealing tantalizing breaks in the treeline. Through these natural frames, the majestic River Clyde comes into view, a vital artery that has shaped the fortunes of this region for centuries. For a good two minutes and nine seconds thereafter, the silvery ribbon of water accompanies the road, a constant reminder of the maritime history etched into the very fabric of Port Glasgow.

It's a view that truly deserves more than a fleeting glance. Imagine the bustling shipyards that once lined these banks, the echoes of industry and the stories of countless vessels launched onto the world's oceans. The Clyde, in this section, isn't just a river; it's a living testament to Scotland's shipbuilding prowess and its connection to global trade. Sadly, the limitations of my camera angle meant capturing the full, breathtaking beauty of this coastal and riverside panorama proved elusive. Trust me, though – the reality is a vista that stirs the soul.

Later in the journey, there's a notable stretch of freshly laid tarmac as you transition onto the new section of motorway connecting Junction 21 of the M8 to Junction 3 of the M74. It's a smooth, modern testament to infrastructure development, designed to streamline travel across the region.

However, beyond these specific points – the captivating glimpses of the Clyde and the smooth glide of the new motorway section – the remainder of the drive is, admittedly, less visually striking. The landscape becomes more functional, focused on the efficient movement of people and goods.

Yet, even in the seemingly mundane stretches of motorway, there's a story to be told. These roads are the lifelines of the central belt, connecting communities, facilitating commerce, and enabling the everyday movements that underpin modern life. While the scenery might not always be picture-postcard perfect, it's a vital part of the Scottish landscape, a testament to its industrious spirit and its ongoing development.

So, while my journey from Port Glasgow to Uddingston on that August day might not have been filled with dramatic twists and turns, it offered moments of genuine beauty and a reminder of the historical and economic significance of this well-traveled route. Sometimes, even the most functional of journeys can offer glimpses into the heart and soul of a place, if you know where – and when – to look.

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Capturing the Tamar: A Dashcam Perspective & the Story Behind the Scenes

For me, photography and videography are two sides of the same coin, each extending and enriching the other. My YouTube videos, in a way, are small visual essays, little extensions of my photographic eye. Recently, I had the opportunity to capture something I've long desired to photograph: the iconic Tamar Bridges. While a full-fledged photoshoot is still on my to-do list, a recent drive provided a unique perspective, captured through my trusty dashcam.

The resulting video documents my journey across the Tamar Road Bridge, a vital artery connecting Cornwall and Devon. This bridge, a testament to engineering prowess, spans the majestic River Tamar. Its history is as fascinating as its structure. Opened in April 1962, it stands proudly alongside the equally impressive Royal Albert Bridge, a railway masterpiece. Interestingly, the Tamar Road Bridge operates as a partial toll bridge, with only eastbound traffic paying the fee.

However, the bridge's story isn't without its challenges. From 1999 to 2001, it underwent substantial refurbishment after it was discovered to be under-strength, a consequence of evolving European regulations for goods vehicle requirements. This project was a significant undertaking, ensuring the bridge's continued safety and functionality for years to come.

My dashcam footage continues beyond the bridge, leading me into the Saltash Tunnel in Cornwall. This 410-meter tunnel, built to endure for a century, carries the busy A38. Opened in 1988, it quickly faced unforeseen challenges. Within months, water seepage from the surrounding hills began to penetrate the tunnel lining, necessitating a major refurbishment project. This experience highlights the unpredictable nature of infrastructure projects and the importance of adapting to unforeseen circumstances.

While the dashcam video offers a raw, unfiltered view of these engineering marvels, it has only fuelled my desire to capture them through the lens of my camera. The bridges, with their distinct characters and historical significance, offer a wealth of photographic opportunities.

This experience underscores the power of capturing moments, even in unexpected ways. Whether through photography or videography, the ability to document and share these experiences provides a unique perspective on the world around us.

This was filmed on the 27th March 2018. The background music featured is Cavern by Hovatoff.

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Journey Through Cumbria and Scotland: A Dashcam Time-Lapse

Experience the beauty of one of the UK's most scenic motorway stretches in this captivating time-lapse video! Filmed from my dashcam, this journey takes you on a 75-mile trip through stunning landscapes, from the edge of the Lake District to the Scottish border.

Our adventure begins near Burton in Kendal Services, just inside Cumbria, as we cross over from Lancashire. From there, we travel north on the motorway, offering glimpses of rolling hills and majestic mountains, even under less-than-ideal weather conditions. Keep an eye out for the dramatic climb to Shap Summit and the exhilarating descent that follows! The anticipation builds as we approach and cross the Scottish border, marking a transition into new territory.

This time-lapse condenses approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes of driving into a fast-paced 8-minute journey. The original footage was captured on Monday, October 16, 2017, using a Vivitar DVR 783HD waterproof action cam.

These dash cam and scenic view videos are a new venture for me, a way to explore different aspects of visual storytelling beyond still photography. I hope you find them interesting. In this video, the camera is fixed facing north, but future uploads will feature angled shots showcasing more of the surrounding scenery.

Across the Pennines: A Time-lapse Drive on the M62

Ever wondered what it's like to drive across the highest stretch of motorway in Britain? This time-lapse film offers a unique perspective on the M62, specifically the challenging section between West Yorkshire and Greater Manchester. Filmed on September 1st, 2017, the journey begins at Ainley Top and climbs to the dizzying heights of Rishworth Moor, reaching 1221 feet (372 metres) above sea level near junction 22. This monumental feat of engineering, completed in 1970 after years of planning and construction, traverses some of the most unforgiving terrain in the UK. Notice how the clear skies at the start of the film quickly give way to a thick blanket of fog as we approach Saddleworth. This dramatic weather shift highlights the very conditions that plagued the construction of this section of the M62, making it one of the most complex and costly stretches of motorway ever built. The accompanying music, "Cylinder Seven" by Chris Zabriskie, adds an atmospheric layer to this fascinating glimpse into the challenges of building on the "roof of England."

The video was doubled in speed as I was driving a truck, and whilst it may look dangerously close at some points to the Abbey trailer, I wasn't, and at that point he was really struggling for power as we were barely doing 40mph and I couldn't get out to pass.

 

A few notable points of scenery, blink and you'll miss some to look out for, and the time in view,

 

Outlane Junction 23 slip road and Outlane Golf Club 1:30

Scammonden (Rainbow) Bridge 2:42

Scammonden Reservoir and Water Tower 3:01

Rishworth Moor, 3:38

Stott Hall Farm is barely visible to the right of the picture (3:46).

The fog comes into view and reduces the long-range visibility (4:37).

Junction 22 Saddleworth 5:58

Highest Motorway in England, Sign 6:08

M62 Pennine Way Bridge, 6:18

Rakewood Viaduct (Windy Hill) 7:38