As the River Elwy meanders its way through the historic city of St Asaph, it is gracefully spanned by a beautiful and unpretentious monument of Welsh history: the Elwy Bridge. The photographs you see capture its timeless charm—the gentle flow of the river, the sturdy stone arches, and the tranquil reflections on the water. But beyond its picturesque appearance, this bridge holds a story of resilience, craftsmanship, and a community's enduring spirit.
A History Built on Stone and Overcome by Water
The present Elwy Bridge, a magnificent five-arched stone structure, was completed in 1770. Its construction was a direct response to the persistent problem of flooding that plagued the area and regularly destroyed earlier crossings. Records show a previous bridge—likely a timber structure located further downstream—was severely damaged by floods in 1767, prompting the need for a more robust and permanent solution.
The design of the new bridge is attributed to Joseph Turner of Hawarden, a name also associated with the historic Ruthin Gaol. Turner's design was both practical and elegant. He incorporated triangular buttresses on the upstream side, known as cutwaters, to break the force of the river's flow during high water, a feature that has served the bridge well for over 250 years. The choice of materials and the symmetrical, yet varied, spans of the arches give the bridge a unique architectural character that blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.
More Than a Crossing: Interesting Facts and Features
A Scheduled Ancient Monument: Elwy Bridge isn't just a functional part of the city's infrastructure; it is a protected heritage site. Its status as a Scheduled Ancient Monument recognizes its national importance and its contribution to the understanding of post-medieval construction techniques.
Decorative Details: Look closely at the bridge's masonry and you'll find subtle decorative touches. The Fleur-de-Lys motif on the tie bar plates adds a flourish to its otherwise utilitarian design, a small detail that speaks to the pride of its builders.
A Symbol of Resilience: While the 1770 bridge was a major step in flood defence, the city of St Asaph continues to face the challenges of its location in the Vale of Clwyd. The River Elwy has a history of bursting its banks, with devastating floods recorded in the past. The tragic floods of November 2012 were a stark reminder of this threat. Since then, the city has implemented major flood defence schemes, including raising and strengthening embankments. The bridge, however, has stood firm, a testament to its original design and a landmark around which these modern defences have been built.
The Bridge to Nowhere: Not far from the main bridge lies another fascinating historical curiosity—Pont Dafydd, a medieval bridge that once crossed a different course of the River Clwyd. With the river rerouted in 1969 for the construction of the A55 expressway, the bridge now stands alone in a field, a solitary road to nowhere that serves as a quiet footpath.
So, the next time you find yourself in the serene setting of St Asaph, take a moment to appreciate the Elwy Bridge. It is more than just a way to cross the river; it is a gateway to the past, a symbol of a community’s struggle with nature, and a beautiful piece of history that continues to stand strong.
I took the pictures below with a Nikon d3300 on the 27th July 2024, clicking any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.
The next 2 images are the result of some creative editing and can be purchased in various formats from Photo4Me.
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I recently unearthed a fascinating piece of history and turned it into a short YouTube video titled "The Nation's Shrines." It features a complete set of 25 cigarette trading cards released in 1929 by Player's Cigarettes, also called "The Nation's Shrines."
What Makes These Cards Special?
Each card in this collection showcases an image of a historic place from England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. It's a real time capsule, offering a look at some of the most significant abbeys, cathedrals, castles, and other points of interest across the United Kingdom almost a century ago.
A Tour Through Time and Place
The video, which features every card in the set, takes you on a visual journey. You'll see stunning depictions of historical landmarks. Interestingly, while the complete set is there, Kenilworth Castle only makes a fleeting appearance, nestled briefly between John Milton's Cottage and Manorbier Castle due to the video software.
Breaking down the representation, the collection heavily features England with 17 sites. Wales and Ireland each have 3 sites, while Scotland is represented by just 2. It's safe to say that if this collection were curated today, we'd likely see a much more balanced representation, especially with more sites from the Celtic nations!
Why Check Out the Video?
If you're a history buff, a fan of vintage ephemera, or simply curious about how these iconic locations were viewed nearly a century ago, this video is a must-watch. It's a charming and unique way to connect with the past and appreciate the enduring beauty of the UK's heritage.
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Rugby League isn't just a hobby for me; it's a deep-rooted passion, particularly when it comes to my beloved Halifax Panthers. For years, they were known as Halifax RLFC, a club steeped in history with a legacy that includes four league championships and five Challenge Cup victories. While our glory days of consistent Super League presence are a little further back – we've been a mainstay of the Championship since our relegation in 2003 – the fire of fandom still burns bright.
A New Perspective: From Spectator to Aerial Documentarian
My journey into a unique creative project began with a pivotal moment in the sport: the Super League's decision to deny Toronto Wolfpack re-entry. This move opened up a fascinating bidding process, creating an opportunity for Championship clubs to ascend to the Super League and for League One clubs to vie for a spot in the Championship. This reshuffling ignited a new curiosity in me, specifically about the grounds of the League One clubs.
What started as a simple interest quickly evolved into an ambitious idea: creating short aerial videos of each club's stadium. My initial plan was to focus solely on the League One grounds. However, I found myself thoroughly engrossed in the process. It was a refreshing departure from my usual creative endeavors, offering a new perspective and a technical challenge I truly enjoyed.
Expanding the Vision: A Full League Showcase
That enjoyment led to an expansion of my project. I realized the potential to create a comprehensive visual record of the sport's infrastructure. Consequently, I extended my aerial tours to include all the Championship clubs and, ultimately, every Super League club's home stadium. The result is a unique collection that not only showcases the diverse venues of Rugby League but also offers a bird's-eye view of the heartlands of this incredible sport. It's been a truly rewarding experience, allowing me to combine my passion for Rugby League with a newfound love for aerial videography.
League 1.
Beyond the familiar Super League and Championship, a vibrant, albeit often overlooked, tier of professional rugby league exists: League 1. This dynamic competition currently comprises ten ambitious clubs, each vying for promotion and a slice of the sport's higher echelons. Far from a static entity, League 1 is a hotbed of potential expansion, with an intriguing array of prospective teams eyeing future admission, hinting at a truly international flavour for the competition.
The whispers of expansion are particularly exciting. Imagine the return of the Toronto Wolfpack, a club that previously disrupted the rugby league landscape with their transatlantic ambitions, bringing a renewed North American presence. Joining them could be the Ottawa Aces, whose 2022 confirmation marked a significant step in the sport's Canadian footprint. The allure of the Big Apple beckons with the potential inclusion of a New York City team, promising to tap into a vast, untapped market. Further afield, the prospect of teams from Belgrade and Valencia speaks to rugby league's burgeoning global appeal, hinting at a truly pan-European competition. Domestically, the sport's grassroots are stirring, with potential new clubs from Bristol and Liverpool signalling a desire to re-establish strongholds in key English cities.
For the upcoming 2021 season, the battle for promotion will be fiercely contested by a diverse group of clubs, each with their own unique history and aspirations. From the Cumbrian strongholds, the Barrow Raiders and Workington Town will bring their traditional rivalry and passionate support. The Midlands will be represented by the Coventry Bears, a club steadily building its presence in a less traditional rugby league heartland. Yorkshire's rich heritage will be on display with the likes of Doncaster RLFC, Hunslet Hawks, and Keighley Cougars, all boasting proud histories and determined to climb the ladder. London's enduring commitment to the sport will be championed by the London Skolars, while the ambition of the North Wales Crusaders highlights the sport's growing footprint across the Celtic nations. Finally, the Rochdale Hornets and West Wales Raiders complete the line-up, each bringing their own brand of resilient rugby to the challenging League 1 arena.
League 1, therefore, is more than just a third tier; it's a melting pot of established clubs, ambitious newcomers, and fascinating international prospects, all contributing to the rich tapestry of professional rugby league. The future of the competition, with its potential for significant expansion and increased geographical diversity, promises to be an incredibly compelling narrative for fans of the sport.
Championship.
The Betfred Championship isn't just a rugby league competition; it's arguably the most competitive and unpredictable league in the entire British rugby system. Imagine a battlefield where the margins are so fine that a strong opening to the season could be the very thing that propels a team towards promotion to Super League, or conversely, condemn them to relegation. This isn't hyperbole; it's the thrilling, high-stakes reality of the Championship. The 2021 season, in particular, was a testament to this cutthroat environment. Fourteen formidable clubs lined up, each with aspirations of glory or the desperate need to secure their survival. The roster was packed with storied names and ambitious challengers: Batley Bulldogs, Bradford Bulls, Dewsbury Rams, Featherstone Rovers, Halifax Panthers, London Broncos, Newcastle Thunder, Oldham RLFC, Sheffield Eagles, Swinton Lions, Toulouse Olympique, Whitehaven RLFC, Widnes Vikings, and York City Knights.
Every single fixture in this league carries immense weight. The difference between a promotion playoff spot and the drop zone can often be just a handful of points, or even a single try. This intense pressure cooker environment forces teams to perform at their absolute peak week in and week out, leading to enthralling contests, unexpected upsets, and dramatic season finales. It’s a league where grit, determination, and tactical prowess are just as crucial as individual brilliance, making it a compelling watch for any rugby league enthusiast.
Super League.
The Super League stands as the pinnacle of professional rugby league in the United Kingdom, holding the prestigious position of being the second-highest-ranked competition globally. Its intensity and passionate fanbase make it a captivating spectacle for sports enthusiasts.
Following the unfortunate withdrawal of the Toronto Wolfpack, the Leigh Centurions earned their promotion to the Super League, ensuring a robust 12-club competition for the 2021 season. These twelve formidable teams battle it out annually for ultimate glory, each boasting a rich history and dedicated supporters.
The line up of clubs that make up this elite league includes:
Castleford Tigers: Known for their fiercely loyal fanbase and attacking flair.
Catalans Dragons: The sole French representative, bringing a unique international flavor and a powerful, physical game.
Huddersfield Giants: A club with a long history in the sport, always a tough opponent.
Hull FC: One half of the passionate Hull derby, renowned for their strong forward pack.
Hull Kingston Rovers: The other half of the Hull rivalry, often characterized by their tenacious defence.
Leeds Rhinos: One of the most successful clubs in Super League history, boasting multiple titles and a reputation for exciting rugby.
Salford Red Devils: A resilient team known for their attacking ambition and never-say-die attitude.
St Helens RFC: Widely regarded as one of the most dominant forces in modern rugby league, with a consistent record of success.
Wakefield Trinity Wildcats: A club with a strong community presence and a history of passionate performances.
Warrington Wolves: Often contenders for major honours, playing an expansive and entertaining brand of rugby.
Wigan Warriors: Another titan of the sport, with a storied past and a reputation for developing top-tier talent.
Each season delivers thrilling matches, fierce rivalries, and incredible displays of skill and athleticism as these clubs vie for the coveted Super League trophy.
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As a collector of postcards, I often find myself lost in the stories they silently tell – tales of travel, connection, and moments frozen in time. Today, I'm excited to share a couple of intriguing additions from my large collection, one of which presents a delightful little historical puzzle!
Take a look at this charming postcard:
This particular card, featuring The Priory, Llandogo, Monmouthshire, Wales, carries a fascinating journey within its aged fibres. What immediately captivated me was the postmark: June 4th, 1954, from the picturesque town of Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire. It was addressed to a "Chapman" at 36 Hill Road, West Worthing, Sussex – a lovely, tangible link to lives lived decades ago.
However, a closer inspection of the stamp has thrown a delightful spanner in the works! The stamp clearly depicts King George VI. For those familiar with British history, you'll know that King George VI sadly passed away in 1952.
This discrepancy immediately sparks a few questions:
Was the postcard truly posted in 1954? It's possible that a stamp from 1952 (or earlier) was still in use and valid for postage two years later. Royal Mail often allows for a period where old stamps remain valid after a new monarch accedes to the throne. This would be the most straightforward explanation.
Could the postmark be slightly misread or unclear? While I've checked it carefully, sometimes aged ink and paper can play tricks on the eyes.
Is there a less common scenario at play? Perhaps it was a special issue or a collector's item used unusually? (Though this is less likely for a standard postcard.)
This little puzzle only adds to the charm and historical value of the postcard for me. It's a tangible reminder that even seemingly simple artifacts can hold layers of history and intrigue. It also highlights the importance of scrutinizing every detail when exploring historical items!
The image itself, of The Priory in Llandogo, offers its own quiet beauty. Nestled in the heart of Monmouthshire, Llandogo is a village known for its stunning Wye Valley scenery. I can almost imagine the sender enjoying the tranquillity of the area before sending this snapshot across the country.
The postcard reads as best as I can as follows, if I can't make the word out I will just underscore
The Priory - Llandogo
Via Chepstow, Herefordshire.
Dear Denis, Eva and All,
We are having an enjoyable time here, had a v. wet journey on Saturday. Rain almost all the way. Arrived without Jerry at 3.00, had to wait at ____Jerry arrived 7.30 just as the dinner bell went the weather has been _______ __ ______ __ day was nice we walked to a beacon hill and villages ___ most of the rest of the card I unable to make out but it ends with, I hope you fix something up soon, love to you all ______Love from Hugh and Jerry.
The 2nd postcard I want to feature is of Happy Valley, Llandudno, these are a set of gardens that are home to wildlife animals and plants and still popular today. Llandudno Pier can also be seen in the picture.
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There’s something truly magical about holding a piece of history in your hands, especially when it’s a vintage postcard. Each one tells a story, not just of the place it depicts, but of a moment in time, a connection between people, and a glimpse into a bygone era.
Part of my own collection is this charming postcard, offering a serene view across Happy Valley Gardens in Llandudno, with the elegant town pier stretching out into the distance.
Frozen in Time: August 11th, 1950
What makes this card particularly special is its postmark: August 11th, 1950. Imagine the scene on that summer's day. Was it a family holiday, a romantic getaway, or a peaceful escape to the Welsh coast? The card itself doesn't tell us who sent it or to whom, but it invites us to ponder the lives connected by this small piece of cardstock.
In 1950, Britain was still recovering from the war years, but tourism was steadily re-emerging. Llandudno, with its grand Victorian architecture and stunning natural beauty, was already a popular destination. Picture the visitors strolling through Happy Valley, enjoying the vibrant flower beds, perhaps riding the cable car or the Great Orme Tramway, and then heading towards the pier for a leisurely walk, an ice cream, or even a paddle in the Irish Sea.
The Enduring Charm of Happy Valley and Llandudno Pier
Looking at the postcard, it's striking how much, and yet how little, has changed. Happy Valley Gardens remains a beautiful, tranquil oasis, nestled on the slopes of the Great Orme. It's still a place where you can find peace, enjoy panoramic views, and escape the hustle and bustle.
And the Llandudno Pier? It's as iconic today as it was 74 years ago. A magnificent example of Victorian engineering, it continues to be a focal point of the town, bustling with arcade games, kiosks, and people simply enjoying the sea air.
This postcard isn't just a picture; it's a window. It reminds us of the timeless appeal of Llandudno, a place that has welcomed visitors for generations. It also serves as a beautiful testament to the simple act of sharing a moment, a memory, and a view with someone far away.
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Posted to a Mr & Mrs R. Acton
34 Worsley Road
Lower Walton
Warrington
Lancs.
The text as best I can make reads as follows,
Llandudno, Thurs
Having a very enjoyable holiday and regret it is nearly over. Weather has been mixed, but we have not been forced indoors. Had some lovely tours, and found N. Wales as beautiful as ever.
Love Helga & Harry
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