The River Thames: From Woolwich Ferry's Perspective

 There's something uniquely captivating about the River Thames, a historic artery that winds its way through the heart of London. And one of the most intriguing ways to experience its dynamic character is from the deck of the Woolwich Ferry. In April 2016, armed with my trusty Nikon d3300, I had the pleasure of capturing a few moments from this vantage point, revealing different facets of the river and its surroundings.

The first view, looking eastward from the ferry terminal, offered a classic London panorama. Under a bright blue sky dotted with fluffy clouds, the river stretched out towards the horizon. The iconic silhouette of the Canary Wharf skyline dominated the distant cityscape, a testament to London's ever-evolving urban landscape. Closer to the shore, the muddy banks at low tide hinted at the river's tidal nature, while a lone vessel navigated the waterways, adding a touch of life to the scene. The low, yellow-tinged wall of the ferry terminal in the foreground served as a constant reminder of our unique position.

Then, as the ferry embarked on its journey, the perspective shifted. Looking eastward from the ferry itself, the glint of sunlight on the water was mesmerizing. The sun, lower in the sky, cast shimmering reflections across the waves, creating a dazzling path of light. The buildings along the river's edge, slightly silhouetted by the brightness, appeared as a continuous urban ribbon, hinting at the bustling life beyond the water's edge. The movement of the ferry created ripples, adding to the dynamic visual of the river.

Finally, a view of the North Shore from the moving ferry presented a different kind of tranquillity. The sun, less direct, allowed for a clearer view of the buildings lining the northern bank. The water here seemed calmer, with broader stretches of deep blue. The presence of other boats, including what appeared to be other ferries or workboats, reinforced the Thames as a working river, constantly in motion. The overall impression was one of vastness and continuity, with the river flowing steadily onward.

These snapshots, taken from the unique vantage point of the Woolwich Ferry, truly capture the essence of the River Thames – a blend of historical grandeur, modern urbanity, natural beauty, and ceaseless activity. It's a journey that offers a fresh perspective on a familiar landmark, and one I highly recommend for anyone looking to see London from a different angle.

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St Luke's Church, Norland

Nestled in the heart of Norland village sits the charming little church known as St. Luke's. More than just a place of worship, St. Luke's boasts a rich history and serves as a vibrant hub for the local community.

St. Luke's was opened in April 1866 at a cost of approx £900. The Rev. John Ellison was instrumental in the decision to build what was then a Chapel of Ease for Christ Church in Sowerby Bridge. This quaint stone building, occupying a central position in the village has stood witness to the changing times of Norland. Early photographs depict a more rural setting, with the church surrounded by open fields.

St. Luke's welcomes everyone with open arms. Their website describes them as a "small and friendly church, and their commitment to inclusivity shines through. They hold services every Sunday afternoon, with an additional morning prayer on Mondays.

Stepping beyond traditional services, St. Luke's plays an active role in the community. Their website highlights a close relationship with the nearby Norland CE School. They also host the Hub Cafe, a wonderful space for people to connect and socialise. Additionally, they hold various events throughout the year, fostering a strong sense of community spirit.

Whether you're a local resident or simply curious about this historic church, St. Luke's offers several ways to get involved, with information easily available on their website.

So, if you're ever in the Sowerby Bridge area, take a moment to visit the charming little church on the hill. You might just discover a welcoming community and a beautiful piece of Norland's history.

The pictures below were taken on the 24th February 2024 with a Nikon d3300. They can also be seen in higher resolution on Clickasnap by clicking any image.

The church occupies a position at a cross roads in the centre of the village. The mileage marker showing the distance to Ripponden and Elland. The former phone box is now used as a village information point.

The south eastern corner of St Luke's, the war grave visible is the final resting place of Private Charles Albert Lumb, he served in the West Yorkshire Regiment until his death on the 21st August 1942 at the age of 28. He had been Married to Stella for just 4 years. His father had died at Ypres in October 1917.

Rusty gate at the eastern entrance to the churchyard. Private Lumb's headstone place again visible.

The church western gate is found opposite Norland Church of England Junior and Infant School.

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