Showing posts with label Scotland. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Scotland. Show all posts

Friday, 25 September 2026

The Salvage Archive: Vintage 35mm Slides of Inveraray Castle and Loch Fyne

 There is a distinct, almost tangible magic in unearthing a cache of vintage 35mm transparencies. Unlike modern digital files stored on cloud servers, slide film carries physical history—trapped in delicate emulsion, susceptible to dust, fading, and colour shifts over the decades. Recently, while sifting through a vintage slide collection, I came across three exceptionally well-preserved frames labelled simply: Inveraray Castle and waterfront, August 1972.

Standing on the shores of Loch Fyne in Argyll, Scotland, Inveraray is one of the nation’s most iconic historic locations. The ancestral seat of the Duke of Argyll, Chief of Clan Campbell, the castle and its surrounding landscape offer a masterclass in 18th-century Gothic Revival architecture set against the dramatic backdrop of the Scottish Highlands. Digitizing and restoring these frames provided not just a technical challenge in image preservation, but a fascinating portal into Scottish heritage frozen in time over half a century ago.

Below is the story behind these three restored views, alongside technical notes on how they were brought back to life for modern visual archiving.

An elevated 1972 view of Inveraray Castle framed by tree branches in the foreground, looking out across green lawns toward Loch Fyne and distant Scottish hills under a blue summer sky.

Elevated Vista of Inveraray Castle and Loch Fyne (August 1972) 

Framed by mature foliage, this high-angle perspective captures the grand estate situated against the shimmering waters of Loch Fyne and the rolling hills of Argyll.

The Panoramic Vista: Castle, Loch, and Mountain

The first frame in the set offers a breathtaking, elevated perspective over the entire estate. Shot through a natural archway of overhanging oak branches, the composition captures Inveraray Castle nestled comfortably within its extensive green lawn. Beyond the estate grounds, the quiet expanse of Loch Fyne stretches toward the distant, rolling hills of the Scottish Highlands under a soft summer sky dotted with fair-weather cumulus clouds.

From a photographic standpoint, this frame highlights the exceptional dynamic range inherent in mid-century Kodachrome and Ektachrome slide stocks. The bright sky and reflective water are held cleanly alongside the deep shadows of the foreground foliage. In the digitizing process, preserving the depth between the close-up leafy foreground and the distant mountain ridges required precise tonal curve adjustments, ensuring the mid tones retained their rich contrast without blowing out the highlights along the shoreline.

A restored 1972 photograph across Loch Fyne showing a wooden bench on green grass, a stone statue, the historic three-arched Aray Bridge, and the forested Dun Na Cuaiche hill topped with a watchtower.

Loch Fyne Waterfront & Aray Bridge (August 1972)

A calm, serene view across the waterfront featuring the historic Field Marshal Wade monument, the three-arched Aray Bridge, and Dun Na Cuaiche watchtower atop the wooded hill.

The Historic Waterfront and Aray Bridge

The second image shifts perspective down to the shoreline edge, taking in the serene public waterfront that lines Loch Fyne. Foregrounded by a simple wooden bench on a neat expanse of green lawn, the view across the dark blue waters captures two major local landmarks: the historic stone monument standing along the pier and the elegant, three-arched Aray Bridge spanning the mouth of the River Aray. Rising prominently in the background is the heavily forested Dun Na Cuaiche hill, topped by its famous 18th-century watchtower beacon.

Restoring this slide presented a classic archival restoration exercise. Over fifty years, minor emulsion blemishes and dust speckles had accumulated across the open sky and smooth water surfaces. Furthermore, subtle distractions along the public walkway were carefully cleaned to enhance the timeless quality of the scene, allowing the striking architectural symmetry of the bridge and monument to take centre stage. The result is a tranquil, postcard-perfect view of mid-century coastal Argyll.

Ground-level 1972 photograph of Inveraray Castle viewed from across the stony River Aray, featuring its iconic Gothic towers, manicured green lawns, and surrounding trees.

Inveraray Castle Ground Level & River Aray (August 1972) 

Viewed from the banks of the River Aray, the Gothic Revival facade stands framed by verdant trees and manicured estate grounds.

Up Close: The Architectural Grandeur of Inveraray Castle

The final restored transparency brings us right up to the edge of the River Aray, looking directly across the pebbled riverbed toward the castle’s southern facade. Constructed in the mid-to-late 1700s, Inveraray Castle features a unique architectural blend of Baroque, Palladian, and Gothic styles, complete with conical corner towers that give it a distinctive fairy-tale outline.

This ground-level view highlights the estate's immediate setting. The River Aray flows gently over smooth river stones in the foreground, bordered by vibrant green banks and mature deciduous trees. A faint footpath cuts through the lawn leading up to the castle walls, emphasizing the open, accessible nature of the grounds during late summer in 1972.

Digitally restoring this shot required careful colour balance correction to counter the slight magenta shift often found in aged colour film, restoring the true silver-grey hue to the castle's masonry and reviving the lush greens of the Scottish grass and foliage.

Preserving Slide History: Technical Restoration Notes

Digitizing 35mm slides at high resolutions (such as 9075 x 6050 pixels) opens up fine details that are completely invisible to the naked eye when holding a slide up to a lightbox. At full resolution, individual stone textures on the castle facade, distant foliage patterns on Dun Na Cuaiche, and delicate cloud structures become crisp and clear.

When working with transparencies from the early 1970s, the key principles for digital archiving include:

  1. High-Resolution Scanning: Capture at high DPI to extract maximum film grain detail without interpolation.

  2. Global Colour Correction: Neutralize aged colour casts (frequently yellow/red or magenta) by setting accurate white points on neutral grey elements like stone or clouds.

  3. Shadow Detail Extraction: Use non-destructive shadow-recovery tools to reveal rich textures hidden in dark foliage framing.

  4. Sensor & Dust Cleaning: Remove decades of microscopic lint and dust while maintaining the natural structure of the original film grain.

Final Thoughts

These three restored slides offer a wonderful step back into August 1972, recording a peaceful summer moment at one of Scotland's grandest historic sites. Through digitizing and careful restoration, these 35mm artifacts transition from fading personal mementos into lasting visual archives that continue to celebrate landscape, history, and heritage.

Tuesday, 1 September 2026

The Salvage Archive: Sunset Over the Isle of Skye

 There is a distinct, unmistakable magic captured in vintage 35mm film slides. Today’s featured photograph from the archive brings us a breathtaking, dramatic view looking across the water towards the Isle of Skye, captured in full golden-hour radiance.

A restored vintage 35mm film photo capturing a dramatic golden sunset breaking through clouds over the sea, casting a vibrant light reflection across the water towards the silhouette of the Isle of Skye.

A Hidden Gem from the Slide Collection

Titled simply “Sunset over the Isle of Skye”, this original 35mm film slide is part of my ongoing restoration project. While the exact date and specific capture details remain lost to time, the timeless nature of the Scottish Highlands ensures the image speaks powerfully for itself.

Looking out over the calm, island-dotted sea, the photograph highlights a striking interplay between light and shadow:

  • The Sky: Heavy, sculpted cloud formations catch the warm, golden glow of the setting sun as light breaks through the haze.

  • The Water: A brilliant reflection streams straight across the quiet surface of the sea, accentuating the silhouettes of the smaller surrounding islands.

  • The Mood: The deep purples, rich blues, and radiant ambers evoke the classic, moody character unique to vintage film emulsions.

Restoring and Digitizing the Past

Film slides from past decades often suffer from physical aging—fading colour casts, dust, or light scratches. Through digital restoration and gentle enhancement, the goal is always to clear away the passage of time without sacrificing the core essence, depth, or history of the original capture.

Whether taken decades ago during a summer trip through the Scottish Hebrides or captured on a crisp autumn evening, this frame captures the enduring allure of Skye's coast—a landscape that remains virtually untouched by time.

Thursday, 5 February 2026

From Gallery Walls to Everyday Life: Reimagining Scotland’s Iconic Landscapes

 There is a specific kind of magic that happens when light, structure, and atmosphere collide. You’ve felt it—that moment a landscape makes you stop, breathe, and just look.

My latest collection takes those moments and transforms them into something you can touch. By blending high-definition photography with painterly, expressive textures, I’ve created four signature pieces that don’t just sit on a wall—they tell a story. Whether you are looking for a sweeping canvas for your lounge or a textured phone case that turns your tech into a masterpiece, the power to customize is in your hands through Zazzle.


1. Ardrossan Beach: Your Daily Dose of Calm

A digital watercolour painting of a rugged beach in Ardrossan, Scotland. The foreground is filled with textured dark rocks and patches of sand, transitioning into a wide, flat coastal expanse. A golden-yellow sunset glows on the horizon, casting warm light across the clouds and reflecting softly on the wet sand. The edges of the image are framed with a white, feathered "bleeding" effect typical of watercolour art.

The Vibe: Golden hour, low tides, and total stillness.

This isn’t just a coastal print; it’s a physical exhale. With its rich oranges and liquid golds, Ardrossan Beach is designed to soften the edges of a room. The painterly texture gives the image a dreamy, almost meditative quality that instantly invites calm.

  • Make it yours on Zazzle: This piece glows on brushed metal prints or adds a touch of zen to a premium journal cover. It is also the perfect serene backdrop for tote bags or personalized postcards.

2. The Forth Bridge: Where Iron Meets Art

An artistic, painterly depiction of the Forth Bridge's iconic cantilever structures. The scene is dominated by deep purple and lilac hues in the sky and water. The bridge itself is rendered with dark, intricate line work, with warm orange highlights suggesting the glow of sunset or artificial lights. The bridge is reflected in the calm water below, surrounded by a heavy, splattered white border.

The Vibe: Scottish heritage, industrial strength, and cinematic warmth.

The Forth Bridge is an icon of engineering, but in this watercolour-style rendering, it feels like a living, breathing character. The warm illumination reflecting off the water creates a moody, sophisticated aesthetic that is perfect for a modern office or a heritage-inspired home.

  • Make it yours on Zazzle: This design is a powerhouse on ceramic mugs or as a bold desk mat to anchor your workspace. Consider it for luggage tags or passport covers for the travel enthusiast in your life.

3. Sunset Through Steel: The Architect’s Dream

A clean, minimalist digital sketch of the Forth Bridge against a stark white background. The bridge is drawn with fine, detailed lines showing its massive steel spans across the water. Faint hints of orange and yellow light peek through the center of the bridge, suggesting a distant sun. The water below is represented by simple, vertical rippled lines reflecting the structure.

The Vibe: Edgy, skeletal, and modern.

If you prefer your art with a bit of "grit," this sketch-style interpretation of the cantilever bridge is for you. It is all about the interplay of rigid steel and the soft, bleeding colours of the sky. It is urban art with a soul, blending structure and softness in a way that feels both modern and timeless.

  • Make it yours on Zazzle: I love this one on minimalist tote bags or as a statement wall clock. It is a conversation starter that proves industrial design can be incredibly elegant on coasters or framed art prints.

4. Kessock Bridge: Minimalist Elegance in Magenta

A digital art piece showing the Kessock Bridge from a low-angle perspective over the water. The image features a cable-stayed design with tall towers and diagonal suspension cables. The color palette is dominated by muted magentas, purples, and greys, with a heavy textured effect on the water in the foreground. The entire scene is contained within a rough, artistic white vignette.

The Vibe: Clean lines, deep perspective, and contemporary cool.

There is something hypnotic about the symmetry of a cable-stayed bridge. This artwork, featuring the Kessock Bridge in soft magenta tones, is for the lovers of clean lines and open spaces. It is deep, airy, and looks exceptionally high-end.

  • Make it yours on Zazzle: This translates beautifully onto acrylic blocks for a sleek desk accessory or oversized throw pillows that bring a designer touch to your sofa. It also makes for stunning greeting cards for design enthusiasts.


Why Shop the Zazzle Collection?

While I offer these images as traditional canvases and posters, my Zazzle store is where you become the co-creator.

  • Total Customization: Want to add a name, a date, or a favourite quote to the Forth Bridge? Zazzle’s tools let you tweak the layout, add text, and adjust the crop until it is perfect.

  • Hundreds of Options: From tech skins and apparel to home décor and office supplies, your favourite landscape can live on almost any product imaginable.

  • Gifts with Meaning: A personalized art piece says a lot more than a generic store-bought gift. Whether for a housewarming or a holiday, these items feel thoughtful and unique.

  • Quality You Can Trust: Zazzle ensures the artwork looks vibrant and professional across all product types.

Bring the Outdoors In

Art shouldn’t be precious—it should be part of your life. It is the mug you hold on a cold morning and the notebook where you scribble your best ideas. These four pieces represent serenity, heritage, and modern beauty. How they fit into your world is entirely up to you.

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All the images remain the copyright of Colin Green.

Sunday, 30 November 2025

The Untamed Beauty of Carter Bar: Where England Meets Scotland

Nestled amidst the rolling hills of the Cheviots, high in the wild expanse of Northumberland National Park, lies a place steeped in history, breathtaking views, and an undeniable sense of raw, untamed beauty: Carter Bar.

More than just a point on a map, Carter Bar is a symbolic gateway, marking the exact spot where England bids farewell and Scotland extends a welcoming embrace (or vice-versa, depending on your direction of travel!). For centuries, this strategic mountain pass has witnessed countless tales – from fierce border reivers and warring clans to the peaceful passage of travellers seeking new adventures.

A Panoramic Welcome to Scotland

Driving north on the A68, the ascent to Carter Bar is a journey in itself. As you climb, the landscape gradually transforms, opening up to ever-more spectacular vistas. Then, you arrive.

On one side, the Saltire of Scotland proudly flutters, while on the other, the St. George's Cross of England stands sentinel. Between them, a stone cairn marks the precise border. But it's the view that truly captures the soul. Looking out across the vast, undulating moorland, often swathed in a vibrant purple haze of heather during late summer, you feel an incredible sense of scale and wilderness.

Echoes of a Turbulent Past

Today, Carter Bar is a peaceful, popular stopping point for tourists. However, its history is anything but tranquil. For centuries, the Anglo-Scottish border was a lawless land, a battleground where the "Border Reivers" – notorious raiders from both sides – wreaked havoc, stealing cattle and clashing in bloody skirmishes. The very landscape seems to whisper tales of these turbulent times. You can almost imagine the clang of steel and the thundering hooves of horses echoing across these very hills.

While the conflicts are long past, the distinct identities of both nations remain strong, making the border crossing a tangible experience.

More Than Just a View: What to Do at Carter Bar

Even if you're just passing through, a stop at Carter Bar is highly recommended.

  • Soak in the Views: Take your time to absorb the magnificent panoramic scenery. On a clear day, you can see for miles across both English and Scottish terrain.

  • Photo Opportunities: Naturally, the border marker with the flags provides an iconic backdrop for photographs. Get a picture with one foot in England and one in Scotland!

  • Visitor Information: There's usually a small mobile shop or visitor information point where you can grab a warm drink, a snack, and perhaps a souvenir to commemorate your visit.

  • Continue Your Journey: From here, you can choose to delve deeper into the Scottish Borders or continue your exploration of Northumberland.

Planning Your Visit

  • Location: Carter Bar is located on the A68 road, approximately 8 miles north of Byrness, England, and 12 miles south of Jedburgh, Scotland.

  • Accessibility: There's a free car park right at the viewpoint.

  • Weather: Be prepared for all types of weather, even in summer. It's an exposed location, so wind and rain are not uncommon. Layers are always a good idea!

Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or simply passing through on a road trip, Carter Bar offers a memorable experience. It's a place where the grandeur of the landscape meets the echoes of history, and where two proud nations meet in a stunning embrace. So next time you're traversing the Anglo-Scottish border, make sure to pull over, take a breath, and truly appreciate the untamed beauty of Carter Bar.

I took the pictures below with a Polaroid is2132 camera on the 21st February 2014.








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All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.

Thursday, 30 October 2025

The Salvage Archive: A 1969 Snapshot of Aros Castle, Isle of Mull

There are some moments in my slide collection that just resonate with a deep sense of history and solitude, and this image of Aros Castle on the Isle of Mull, captured in 1969, is one of them. It's a striking portrait of rugged Scottish beauty, frozen in a time when travel to the islands felt like a genuine expedition.

The Castle on the Cliff

The photograph perfectly frames the romantic, jagged ruins of Aros Castle, perched atop a grassy cliff overlooking a wide body of water—the Sound of Mull. You can practically feel the history clinging to the stone.

  • A Medieval Sentinel: Aros Castle, also known as Heynish, has stood here since the 13th century. It was a strategic stronghold, controlling passage through the Sound of Mull, first for the powerful Clan MacDougall and later for the Lords of the Isles, the Clan MacDonald. Today, only two storeys of the main keep and some curtain wall fragments remain, their ruins telling a story of sieges, abandonments, and centuries of exposure to the Atlantic weather.

  • The Landscape: The castle sits against a backdrop of distant, hazy hills—likely the mainland of Morvern—giving the scene immense depth. The foreground is dominated by the water, which is clearly at a low tide, revealing a textured, reddish-brown foreshore covered in seaweed and mud. The shallow water here reflects the sky, creating a beautiful interplay of light and colour between the earth and the heavens.

The Spirit of 1969

The date 1969 gives this photograph a beautiful sense of its era:

  • The Road Less Travelled: Before widespread ferry links and modern tourism infrastructure, visiting the more remote Scottish islands, especially with camera equipment, felt more like an adventure. The scene is utterly devoid of modern clutter—no large car parks, visitor centres, or even other people visible. The focus is entirely on the untouched natural and historical beauty.

  • Vintage Colour: The rich, saturated greens of the grassy headland and the deep blue of the sky and water are typical of the slide film stock used in the late 1960s. This specific colour palette adds a nostalgic warmth that contemporary digital photography often struggles to replicate.

  • A Quiet Moment: The image captures a profound stillness. The water is calm, the clouds are high, and the ruined castle stands in silent watch. It evokes a feeling of peace and timelessness that defines the allure of the Scottish West Coast.

This slide is more than just a historical record; it is a precious memory of a quieter era on the Isle of Mull, where the history of the Highlands and Islands was easily accessible, standing proud and unpolished against the vast, beautiful wilderness. It reminds us that some views, like this one, are truly eternal.

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Saturday, 29 July 2023

Ardrossan's Coastal Canvas: A Digital Remix of a Scottish Beach

Sometimes, a picture needs a little help to capture the full power of a moment. These two photographs are a perfect example of that. While the original shots of Ardrossan Beach were taken on a grey day in November 2013, a little digital magic has transformed them into something truly spectacular. By replacing the sky, the images now reflect the dramatic beauty that the Scottish coast truly deserves.


A Beach with a View

Ardrossan, a charming town in Ayrshire, Scotland, is home to not one, but two beautiful beaches. These pictures focus on Boydston Beach, or North Shore, a stunning stretch of golden sand that curves along the coast. It's a place for quiet moments, whether you’re building a sandcastle or just taking a leisurely stroll with the sound of the waves in the background.

But the real magic here is the view. Looking out across the Firth of Clyde, the landscape is a majestic panorama. In the distance, the rugged peak of the Isle of Arran is just visible on the horizon, a constant, beautiful presence. Closer to shore, you can spot Horse Island, a bird-watching sanctuary with its iconic 19th-century tower. On a clear day, you might even catch a glimpse of the rolling hills of the Scottish mainland to the north.


The Art of the Edit

These pictures show the power of combining elements to create a more compelling image. The beach photos were originally taken with a Samsung Galaxy Tablet, while the dramatic, vibrant sky was captured separately with a Nikon D3300. Layering them together in Photoshop gave the scenes a sense of atmosphere and grandeur that the original photos lacked.

The result is a powerful vision of Ardrossan's coastal beauty, highlighting the raw, natural elegance of the area. It’s a reminder that even when the weather doesn't cooperate, a little creativity can help you capture the full spirit of a place.


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All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.

Saturday, 23 July 2022

Bridging the Gap: A Photographer's Journey

As a photographer, I've always been drawn to bridges. They're more than just structures connecting two points; they’re symbols of human ingenuity, history, and a connection to the world around us. Recently, I've been exploring different ways to capture these marvels, playing with filters and post-processing to create a painterly, almost dreamlike effect. The result is a series of images that feel both real and fantastical, blurring the lines between photography and art.

In this collection, I've focused on some of the UK's most iconic bridges. Each one has its own story and a unique aesthetic.

Connel Bridge, Oban, Scotland.


Nestled in the breath taking landscape of Western Scotland, the Connel Bridge is a remarkable feat of engineering with a storied past. Originally built as a railway crossing over the narrow mouth of Loch Etive, the bridge was officially opened in August 1903. Constructed at a cost of £43,000, it served the Ballachulish Branch Line of the Callander and Oban Railway, a vital link for the region's transport network.

For many years, the bridge was exclusively for rail traffic. However, in 1914, a new chapter began when a roadway was added, allowing both cars and trains to use the same crossing. This dual-purpose use was managed with a unique set of rules: trains were given priority, and the roadway was closed to vehicles whenever rail traffic was scheduled to pass. This continued until the railway line was closed in the late 1960s, at which point the bridge became solely for road use. Today, the A828 road still runs across the single-track bridge, with traffic lights managing the flow of cars and ensuring a smooth passage for all.


Engineering and the Falls of Lora

The design of the Connel Bridge is as fascinating as its history. It is a cantilever bridge, a style chosen specifically to withstand the unique natural forces of the area. The bridge's impressive 524-foot span was a necessary measure to clear the challenging waters below. Just to the west of the bridge are the Falls of Lora, a series of tidal rapids created by the strong flow of water in and out of Loch Etive. These powerful currents were a significant consideration for the original engineers, who designed the bridge's structure to handle the immense pressures and prevent any obstructions in the water below.

Rising to a height with a 14-foot restriction, the bridge is perfectly positioned to offer a stunning view of the surrounding scenery. Just to the north, you can see the nearby Oban Airport, a modern landmark in an area rich with historical and natural wonders.

The Forth Bridge



Opened in 1890, the Forth Bridge is more than just a crossing; it's a defining symbol of Scotland's industrial might and a globally recognized feat of engineering. Located just east of Edinburgh, this monumental structure spans the Firth of Forth, connecting the communities of North and South Queensferry. While it's commonly known as the Forth Rail Bridge, its official name is simply the Forth Bridge, as it was the first of the three crossings to be built here.

The bridge's history is as impressive as its scale. Designed by the visionary engineers Sir John Fowler and Sir Benjamin Baker, construction began in 1882. At the peak of its construction, the project was a massive undertaking, employing a workforce of over 4,600 men. Their collective efforts culminated in the bridge's completion in December 1889. Following extensive testing, the bridge was officially opened on March 4, 1890, by the Duke of Rothesay, who marked the occasion by driving in the final gold-plated rivet.


Design, Scale, and Legacy

The Forth Bridge's distinctive cantilever design was a revolutionary choice for its time, built to handle the immense forces of a railway crossing. The bridge has a total length of 8,094 feet, with a maximum width of 120 feet at its piers. It soars to a height of 316 feet, providing a staggering 150 feet of clearance for ships to pass safely beneath at high tide.

In recognition of its historical and architectural significance, the Forth Bridge was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It remains one of the most famous man-made structures in Scotland, a powerful testament to the ingenuity and sheer hard work of the men who built it.

Albert Bridge, Belfast, Northern Ireland

Spanning the River Lagan in the heart of Belfast, the Albert Bridge is a testament to the city's resilience and a graceful example of 19th-century engineering. Completed in 1890, this elegant structure was designed by the esteemed J.C. Bretland to replace a previous bridge that had tragically collapsed in 1886. This earlier failure underscored the need for a robust and reliable new crossing, and Bretland's design delivered on that promise.

Constructed at a cost of £36,500—an astronomical sum at the time, equivalent to approximately £5.2 million in today's currency—the bridge was a significant investment in the city's infrastructure. Its name honors Prince Albert Victor, the grandson of Queen Victoria, connecting the bridge to the rich history of the British monarchy.

With its striking architectural features and a vital role in connecting the city, the Albert Bridge is more than just a crossing; it's a piece of Belfast's history, a silent witness to the city's transformation over more than a century.

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All the images remain the copyright of Colin Green.

Friday, 1 July 2022

Ardrossan's Golden Shore: The North Beach

Ardrossan, a charming coastal town in Ayrshire, Scotland, boasts not one but two delightful beaches. Today's pictures were taken on Boydston Beach or North Shore.

Ardrossan North Beach stretchers out in a welcoming curve of golden sand, perfect for picnics, sandcastle building, and leisurely strolls. Feel the sand between your toes as you wander along the shoreline, letting the sound of the waves lull you into a relaxed state. For the more adventurous, the beach offers opportunities for paddling, swimming, and rock pooling in the cool waters of the Firth of Clyde. Remember to check the tides and weather conditions before heading into the water.

The true magic of Ardrossan North Beach unfolds when you turn your gaze outward. The beach offers stunning views across the Firth of Clyde, the majestic Isle of Arran, its peak visible on the horizon, and Horse Island, a nearby bird-watching sanctuary with its iconic 19th-century tower. On clear days, you might even catch a glimpse of the rolling hills of the Scottish Mainland to the north.

The beach is close to the town centre, allowing visitors to seek out the Victorian Promenade, and check out the town's rich maritime history by visiting the harbour. There are also a number of places to seek out refreshments nearby.

Ardrossan North Beach is a fantastic starting point for exploring the wider Ayrshire coast. Consider hopping on a ferry to the Isle of Arran for a day trip filled with natural beauty and historical intrigue.

For a dose of culture, head to the nearby town of Saltcoats and explore its art galleries and museums.

The pictures were taken with a Samsung Galaxy Tablet on the 28th November 2013.



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All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.

Wednesday, 4 May 2022

Scottish Premiership Football Stadiums Season 2021/22

 My latest upload to YouTube is a slideshow of artworks of Scottish Premiership Football Stadiums season 2021 / 22 created by me, based on public domain images. The stadiums are featured in team alphabetical order in the video


The images below feature in the video, although below they are in stadium name order.

Almondvale Stadium opened in 1995 as the home of Livingston FC, it has
a current capacity of 9512. The record attendance was 10112 v Rangers Fc
on the 27 October 2001.

Celtic moved to their current location in 1892, the stadium has been modernised
several times and now has a capacity of 60411. The record attendance is
83500 v Rangers on the 1 January 1938.

Dens Park is the home ground of Dundee FC and opened in 1899. It is just 200yds
from the ground of city rivals Dundee United. The capacity is 11775 and the record
attendance 43024 was v Rangers on 7 February 1953.

Hibernian FC play at Easter Road, Edinburgh which has a current
capacity of 20421. The largest crowd ever was 65860 on the 2 January 1950
when they played city rivals Hearts of Midlothian. They played their first
game here in 1893.

Fir Park has been the home of Motherwell FC since 1895 and has a capacity of 13677.
The largest crowd ever was 35632 for a game against Rangers on 12 March 1952.

Rangers FC have played at Ibrox Park, changed to Ibrox Stadium in
1997, since 1899 and the current capacity is 50817. The record attendance which is
also the largest ever for a domestic football match in Britain is 118567 for a league
fixture against Old Firm Rivals Celtic on the 2 January 1939.

McDiarmid Park in Pert is the home stadium of
St Johnstone FC. The capacity is 10696 and since opening in 1989
the record attendance is 10721 v Rangers on the 26 February 1991.

Pittodrie Stadium has been the home to Aberdeen FC since September 1899,
there are plans to replace the ground with a new build stadium but this has
been planned for at least 15 years. The current capacity is 20866 and the
record attendance is 45061 v Hearts of Midlothian 13 March 1954.

St Mirren Park hosted it's first game on the 31 January 2009, built to replace
the previous home of Love Street the ground has a capacity of 8023. The
record attendance is 7732 v Dundee United on the 26 May 2019. Their best
at Love Street was 47438.

Dundee United have called their home Tannadice Park since 1909 and the record
attendance is  28000 v Barcelona on the 16 November 1966. This is unlikely
to ever be beaten as the current capacity is around half that at 14223.

Tynecastle Park has a current capacity of 19852 and has been home to Hearts
of Midlothian since 1886. The record attendance is 53396 for a Scottish
Cup game against Rangers FC on the 13 February 1932.

Victoria Park opened in 1929 as the home ground of Ross County FC.
It has been the most northerly ground in senior British football since being
elected to Scottish Football League Division Three in 1994. The
current Capacity is 6541 and the record attendance was set
v Rangers in the Scottish Cup on the 28 February 1966.

I thought that because Celtic had the biggest home ground in Scotland and had massive support that they would also feature mostly in the other teams record attendances, surprisingly they were only the highest attendance once for a game against Rangers, Rangers were highest 7 times with Hearts of Midlothian featuring twice. Dundee United had the only non domestic highest for a game against Barcelona.

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The pictures are the copyright of Colin Green.