Holme & Cliviger: Gorge, Church, and Landscape

On a crisp April day in 2016, the 23rd to be precise, my trusty Nikon D3300 and I set out to explore the rugged beauty surrounding Holme and Cliviger. My primary mission? To finally capture the stoic grandeur of St. John the Divine, a landmark I'd admired countless times in passing. Little did I know, the day held far more treasures than just a church portrait. The walk unfolded into a delightful adventure, revealing the hidden wonders of the landscape: the shadowy maw of Holme Tunnel, the elegant span of Buckley Bridges, and a tapestry of other captivating scenes.

Holme Tunnel itself, a subterranean passage slicing beneath the dramatic Thieveley Scout, part of the Cliviger Gorge, proved a highlight. This 265-yard marvel, born in 1849, whispered tales of a bygone era. I learned that it had recently emerged from a transformative £11.5 million refurbishment, shedding its slow, 20mph crawl for the exhilarating rush of 75mph. A testament to engineering prowess, it stood as a powerful reminder of the region's enduring spirit.

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Buckley Bridge.

The Copy Pit Railway Line traverses the landscape via Buckley Bridge, a primary structure. Adjacent, to the west, a secondary bridge spans the road, its function less immediately apparent. Oral tradition suggests this smaller bridge was integral to the original Holme Railway Station approach, a detail that hints at a more complex history than the present-day scene reveals.

Below are a couple of views taken from near the top of Cliviger Gorge looking towrads Todmorden with Stoodley Pike Visible in the distance and across the valley towards the Church of St John the Devine.

The Church of St John the Devine.

Consecrated between 1788 and 1794, this active Anglican church, a Grade II listed landmark in the Blackburn diocese, gazes down upon the village like a silent guardian. But it's more than just stones and mortar; it's a place where stories reside. General Sir James Yorke Scarlett, a name etched in Crimean War history for his daring charge, found his final peace here. The sheer scale of his funeral, with over 60,000 people lining the streets, speaks volumes about the man, and the impact of his life.

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Tracing the Ghostly Rails: The North Dean Branch Line

Nestled in the heart of West Yorkshire, the remnants of a once-bustling railway line whisper tales of industrial heritage and bygone journeys. The North Dean, Stainland or Greetland and Stainland branch line, though short in length, played a vital role in connecting the mills of the valley to the wider world. Let's take a journey through its history and what remains today.

A Line Forged by Industry:

Opened on January 1st, 1875, this double-track line branched off the main line at Greetland, near Halifax, and climbed approximately 1.6 miles to its terminus at Stainland and Holywell Green Station. Its primary purpose was to serve the thriving textile mills that dotted the valley.

From Passengers to Goods:

For over half a century, the line carried passengers, with a surprisingly frequent service of 16 trains each way right up until its passenger closure on September 23rd, 1929. Goods traffic continued to rumble along the rails until September 14th, 1959, marking the final chapter for this industrious little line.

A Trail of Stations:

Despite its brief length, the line boasted four stations by 1907:

• Greetland Station: The junction with the mainline, opened in 1844, and remained in operation until September 8th, 1962.
• Rochdale Road Halt: Added in 1907 when rail motors were introduced, this passenger-only halt sat atop a bridge crossing the B6113 Rochdale Road at West Vale. Sadly, nothing remains of the bridge or the station today, having closed in 1929.
• West Vale Station: Located just after the impressive West Vale Viaduct, only a partially covered retaining wall marks the station site within the Green Royd housing estate. It mirrored the lines opening and closing dates of 1875 and 1959.
• Stainland and Holywell Green Station: The terminus of the line. Today, an industrial area occupies the site, leaving no trace of the station.

Architectural Echoes:

Two impressive viaducts stand as testaments to the engineering prowess of the era:

• West Vale Viaduct: A Grade II listed, 13-arch structure, now a public footpath and cycleway, offering stunning views of West Vale.
• Rawroyds (Stainland) Viaduct: Another Grade II listed marvel, this 14-arch viaduct spans the valley and Holywell Brook. While largely intact, it is now inaccessible, with only footpaths passing beneath its arches. The western embankment has been significantly altered for road access to Brookwoods Industrial Estate.

A Forgotten Path:

The line's final stretch passed under Long Heys Bridge, through a cutting beneath Station Road Bridge, and finally reached Stainland and Holywell Green Station. The cutting now serves as an access road.

A Photographic Glimpse:

These observations were captured with a Nikon d300 SLR camera on October 15th, 2017, providing a snapshot of the line's current state.

The North Dean branch line, though no longer active, leaves behind a fascinating legacy. Its viaducts, remnants of stations, and the stories they hold offer a glimpse into the industrial past of West Yorkshire.

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Clay House Bridge, Rochdale Road Halt was not far from here.

The previous 3 pictures were taken on the former track bed between what was the Rochdale Road Halt and West Vale Viaduct.

West Vale Viaduct, the above picture and 5 below show pictures taken from and of the viaduct.

West Vale viewed from the viaduct.

Long Heys Railway Bridge.

The cow was grazing in a field near top the railways former track bed. It seemed more interested in me than the field and other cows.

The 2 pictures show the remains of Rawroyds Viaduct, for a short branch line of less than 2 miles, this was the 2nd impressive viaduct that carried the line.

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Chasing the Light: A Coastal Hike to Far del Moscarter, Ibiza

In the summer of 2014, amidst the sun-drenched shores of Portinatx, Ibiza, I decided to trade poolside lounging for a coastal adventure. My mission? To hike to the iconic lighthouse, Far del Moscarter, a journey of approximately 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) from my hotel, Club Vista Bahia.

Let's be honest, the hotel wasn't exactly a highlight of the trip. While the sunsets were undeniably spectacular, painting the sky with fiery hues, the rest left much to be desired. Unmotivated staff, uninspired food, and a less-than-pristine environment contributed to a somewhat lackluster experience. (And, I've since heard it's closed its doors – hardly surprising!) But this isn't a hotel review; it's a tale of a rewarding walk.

Setting out along the rugged coastline, the heat was a tangible presence, but the allure of the sea breeze and the promise of panoramic views kept me going. A slight detour through a shady woodland area added an unexpected element of adventure, and after a brief navigational challenge, the stark white tower of Far del Moscarter finally came into view.

And what a view it was! Perched dramatically on the edge of the coastline, the lighthouse offered breathtaking vistas of the shimmering Mediterranean Sea. It's easy to see why this spot is so beloved.

Far del Moscarter, a beacon of light since 1977, stands tall as the highest lighthouse in the Balearic Islands, with a focal plane of 52 meters. Construction of this impressive structure began in 1975, and its design is refreshingly minimalist. Unlike many traditional lighthouses, Far del Moscarter was built as a fully automated tower, lacking any residential quarters. Its sleek concrete form, devoid of unnecessary embellishments, speaks to its functional purpose.

The journey to the lighthouse, captured with my trusty Polaroid is2132 bridge camera on July 9th, 2014, was a reminder of the simple joys of exploration. Sometimes, the best experiences are found when you step away from the predictable and venture into the unknown. Clicking any of the images below should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

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Unexpected Waterfalls and Canal Charms: Woodside Mill Lock's Hidden Display

Sometimes, the most captivating sights are found in the everyday, along well-trodden paths. On a recent stroll along the tranquil canal towpath connecting Elland to Salterhebble, I encountered a delightful, albeit temporary, spectacle at Woodside Mill Lock. This particular lock, a familiar landmark on my regular walks, usually presents its characteristic trickle of water cascading over the lower gate – a gentle reminder of the canal's ever-flowing nature.

However, this time, the scene was dramatically different. The lock, evidently recently used, was in the process of refilling. This resulted in the upper gate becoming a miniature waterfall, a torrent of water rushing over its lip and into the lock chamber. The sheer volume of water, combined with the rhythmic rush, transformed the familiar lock into a captivating display of hydraulic power.

It's a reminder of the intricate engineering that keeps our canals functioning, and how even routine processes can create moments of unexpected beauty. The contrast between the typically serene canal and the forceful flow of water was striking. I paused to capture this fleeting moment, grabbing my Samsung Tablet to record a short video.

The video, which you can view below, showcases the unexpected waterfall in all its glory. The sight and sound of the water, coupled with the peaceful backdrop of the canal, made for a truly memorable experience.

Woodside Mill Lock, like many along our canals, holds a rich history. Once a vital part of the region's industrial backbone, these locks facilitated the transport of goods and raw materials. Today, they serve as a reminder of our industrial heritage and offer a peaceful escape for walkers, cyclists, and nature enthusiasts.

This unexpected encounter with Woodside Mill Lock's 'waterfall' serves as a gentle reminder to appreciate the small moments of beauty that surround us. Whether it's the gentle ripple of the canal or the temporary cascade of water over a lock gate, there's always something new to discover along our waterways.

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A Snowy Easter Surprise: Capturing Calderdale's Wintery Wharfs

Remember that unexpected blanket of snow that transformed Easter Monday 2018? Here in Calderdale, it was a truly magical, if somewhat surprising, sight. I managed to capture a few glimpses of this fleeting winter wonderland in a series of short videos, and I wanted to share them with you.

These videos, each running between 1 minute 26 seconds and 1 minute 42 seconds, offer a serene look at the Sowerby Bridge Wharf area. It's a place where the historic Rochdale Canal and the Calder & Hebble Navigation meet, creating a picturesque scene that took on an entirely different character under a delicate layer of snow.

What makes these videos special is the atmosphere. The gentle snowfall, combined with the tranquil waterways, creates a sense of peaceful isolation. To enhance that mood, I've paired the visuals with the beautiful background music "Christmas Homecoming" by Aaron Kenny. While it might seem odd to associate Christmas with Easter, the music's warm, nostalgic tones perfectly complement the snowy landscape, evoking a sense of cosey tranquillity.

What you'll see:

• The Rochdale Canal: Witness the canal's still waters reflecting the soft snowfall, creating a mirror-like effect.
• The Calder & Hebble Navigation: Observe the gentle flow of this historic waterway, its banks dusted with white.
• Sowerby Bridge Wharf: See this charming area transformed into a winter scene, highlighting the beauty of its architecture and natural surroundings.

The contrast between the historic industrial setting and the delicate snowfall is truly captivating. It's a reminder of how quickly the landscape can change, and how even a brief snowfall can transform a familiar place into something extraordinary.

These videos are a small snapshot of a unique moment in time. They're a reminder of that unexpected Easter Monday, when winter briefly returned to Calderdale, creating a scene of quiet beauty.

I hope you enjoy these short glimpses of a snowy Sowerby Bridge.

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All the images and video remain the copyright of Colin Green.

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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