Where Lancashire Met Yorkshire: The Majestic Todmorden Town Hall

Nestled in the heart of the Calder Valley, Todmorden boasts a jewel of architectural grandeur: its Town Hall. This neo-classical masterpiece, a Grade I listed building, stands as a testament to ambition, rivalry, and the enduring legacy of the Fielden family.

The story of Todmorden Town Hall is as fascinating as the building itself. Construction began in 1860, with architect James Green at the helm. However, the project was soon plagued by legal and financial woes, grinding to a halt. The unfinished structure stood as a silent testament to these early struggles.

Enter the Fielden family, local industrialists with a vision. In January 1866, they purchased the land and the incomplete hall at auction, breathing new life into the project. They appointed John Gibson of Westminster to redesign the building, and under his guidance, the hall was transformed into the architectural marvel we see today.

On April 3rd, 1875, the grand Todmorden Town Hall was officially opened, a culmination of years of effort and a staggering £54,000 investment. Its imposing facade and intricate detailing spoke of the town's prosperity and the Fieldens' commitment to their community.

But the hall's significance extends beyond its architectural beauty. It was deliberately built across the historic Lancashire-Yorkshire county boundary, a symbolic gesture intended to bridge the rivalries between the two counties. This unique positioning reflected the town's desire for unity and harmony. However, in a twist of fate, the boundary was later adjusted on January 1st, 1888, bringing the entire town, including the hall, firmly within Yorkshire.

A Visual Journey:

I had the privilege of capturing the hall's grandeur on April 22nd, 2017, using my Nikon D3300 SLR camera. The images I took serve as a visual record of its timeless beauty, showcasing the intricate details of its facade, the imposing columns, and the overall sense of historical significance.

Why Todmorden Town Hall Matters:

• Architectural Significance: The neo-classical design, with its grand columns and symmetrical facade, is a prime example of Victorian architecture.
• Historical Significance: The hall's construction story, marked by challenges and eventual triumph, reflects the town's resilience and the Fielden family's legacy.
• Symbolic Significance: The initial placement across the county boundary highlights the town's desire for unity and its unique position in British history.
• Community Hub: Even today, the town hall serves as a vital community space, hosting events and gatherings.

Todmorden Town Hall is more than just a building; it's a living piece of history, a symbol of ambition, and a testament to the enduring spirit of the town. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone who appreciates beautiful buildings, a visit to Todmorden Town Hall is a must.

Clicking any of the images below should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

The town hall roof pictured from the railway station. Stoodley pike Monument can be seen in the distance.

Thanks for looking, please take a moment to share and follow me on social media, and check out my Portfolio's on Photo4Me and ClickAsnap via the links below.

All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.

Blackpool Sealife Videos Part 2

Blackpool's glittering promenade is famous for its arcades, the iconic tower, and of course, the bustling Pleasure Beach. But tucked away amidst the seaside charm is a hidden gem for marine life enthusiasts: SEA LIFE Blackpool. Recently, I took my family on a visit, armed with a camera and a healthy dose of curiosity, and I'm here to share my experience.

Let's address the elephant (or perhaps, the shark!) in the room: the entrance fee. At £58.50 for a family of three, some might balk. I admit, it's a significant chunk of change. However, after spending a few hours immersed in the underwater world, I can confidently say it was money well spent.

What made it so worthwhile? For starters, we opted for the behind-the-scenes tour, a fascinating glimpse into the less-seen aspects of marine conservation. This wasn't just a casual stroll past tanks; we were granted access to the medical and feeding areas, witnessing firsthand the dedication and care that goes into looking after these incredible creatures.

I captured nine short video clips during our visit, ranging from 14 to 56 seconds, which are now available both here and on my YouTube channel. These snippets offer a taste of the diverse marine life on display. We encountered graceful stingrays gliding through the water, majestic sharks patrolling their territories, vibrant schools of fish creating a kaleidoscope of colour, and even a shy turtle, attempting a rather comical hide-and-seek game near the tank's surface.

Here's a glimpse of what you can expect:

• Diverse Inhabitants: The variety of species is truly impressive. You'll find yourself captivated by the unique characteristics of each creature, from the sleek sharks to the patterned stingrays.
• Educational Experience: The behind-the-scenes tour provides invaluable insights into marine conservation efforts, highlighting the challenges faced by these animals and the work being done to protect them.
• Interactive Moments: Watching the feeding sessions and observing the animals' behaviour up close creates a truly immersive and memorable experience.
• The Shy Turtle: One clip in particular captures a turtle trying to conceal itself. It's a delightful reminder of the individual personalities of these animals.

Is it worth the price?

Ultimately, the value of the experience depends on your perspective. If you're looking for a quick, cheap thrill, perhaps not. However, if you're passionate about marine life, eager to learn, and seeking a memorable family outing, SEA LIFE Blackpool delivers. The behind-the-scenes tour elevates the experience, providing a deeper understanding of the conservation efforts and the dedication of the staff.

My Verdict:

SEA LIFE Blackpool offers a captivating and educational journey into the underwater world. The £58.50 investment, especially with the behind-the-scenes tour, proved to be a worthwhile expenditure. The short video clips I captured only scratch the surface of the wonders awaiting visitors. So, if you're planning a trip to Blackpool, consider diving deep and exploring the fascinating world of SEA LIFE. You won't be disappointed!

Thanks for looking, please take a moment to share and follow me on social media.

All the videos and pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.

Diving Deep: Is Blackpool SEA LIFE Worth the Plunge? Videos Part 1

Blackpool's glittering promenade is famous for its arcades, the iconic tower, and of course, the bustling Pleasure Beach. But tucked away amidst the seaside charm is a hidden gem for marine life enthusiasts: SEA LIFE Blackpool. Recently, I took my family on a visit, armed with a camera and a healthy dose of curiosity, and I'm here to share my experience.

Let's address the elephant (or perhaps, the shark!) in the room: the entrance fee. At £58.50 for a family of three, some might balk. I admit, it's a significant chunk of change. However, after spending a few hours immersed in the underwater world, I can confidently say it was money well spent.

What made it so worthwhile? For starters, we opted for the behind-the-scenes tour, a fascinating glimpse into the less-seen aspects of marine conservation. This wasn't just a casual stroll past tanks; we were granted access to the medical and feeding areas, witnessing first hand the dedication and care that goes into looking after these incredible creatures.

I captured nine short video clips during our visit, ranging from 14 to 56 seconds, which are now available both here and on my YouTube channel. These snippets offer a taste of the diverse marine life on display. We encountered graceful stingrays gliding through the water, majestic sharks patrolling their territories, vibrant schools of fish creating a kaleidoscope of colour, and even a shy turtle, attempting a rather comical hide-and-seek game near the tank's surface.

Here's a glimpse of what you can expect:

• Diverse Inhabitants: The variety of species is truly impressive. You'll find yourself captivated by the unique characteristics of each creature, from the sleek sharks to the patterned stingrays.
• Educational Experience: The behind-the-scenes tour provides invaluable insights into marine conservation efforts, highlighting the challenges faced by these animals and the work being done to protect them.
• Interactive Moments: Watching the feeding sessions and observing the animals' behaviour up close creates a truly immersive and memorable experience.
• The Shy Turtle: One clip in particular captures a turtle trying to conceal itself. It's a delightful reminder of the individual personalities of these animals.

Is it worth the price?

Ultimately, the value of the experience depends on your perspective. If you're looking for a quick, cheap thrill, perhaps not. However, if you're passionate about marine life, eager to learn, and seeking a memorable family outing, SEA LIFE Blackpool delivers. The behind-the-scenes tour elevates the experience, providing a deeper understanding of the conservation efforts and the dedication of the staff.

My Verdict:

SEA LIFE Blackpool offers a captivating and educational journey into the underwater world. The £58.50 investment, especially with the behind-the-scenes tour, proved to be a worthwhile expenditure. The short video clips I captured only scratch the surface of the wonders awaiting visitors. So, if you're planning a trip to Blackpool, consider diving deep and exploring the fascinating world of SEA LIFE. You won't be disappointed!

These were recorded on the 17th July using a Nikon d3300 SLR camera. The background music was added from the YouTube catalogue and is Calm by Silent Partner. Just improves the feel of the clips as there is a lot of background noise from people otherwise.

Thanks for looking, please take a moment to share and follow me on social media.

All videos and pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.

Whispers of Mills and Murders: Unearthing Brearley's Hidden History

Nestled between the rumble of the mainline railway and the busy A646 Burnley Road, between Luddendenfoot and Mytholmroyd, lies the unassuming hamlet of Brearley. It's easy to pass by, a blink-and-you'll-miss-it spot in the verdant embrace of West Yorkshire. But beneath its tranquil surface, Brearley holds tales that echo through the centuries, whispering of industry, faith, and even murder.

One of the first things that catches the eye is the former Baptist Chapel. Once a vibrant hub of community life, its stone walls now house apartments, a silent testament to the changing fortunes of the area. The closure of the mills, once the lifeblood of Brearley, led to a gradual exodus, leaving the chapel's pews empty. It's a poignant reminder of how industrial shifts can reshape entire communities, leaving behind echoes of a bygone era.

But Brearley's history isn't just about the rise and fall of industry. Venture along the Route 66 cycleway, towards Mytholmroyd, and you'll encounter a stark reminder of a darker chapter: the memorial to William Deighton.

Deighton, a tax inspector, arrived in Halifax in April 1759. He quickly became aware of the rampant practice of coin clipping, a form of counterfeiting that plagued the region. His investigations led him to the notorious Cragg Vale Coiners, a gang who were systematically defrauding the government. The story takes a tragic turn in November 1769, when Deighton was ambushed and murdered on Swires Road, Halifax, by Robert Thomas and Matthew Normington, two members of the Coiners.

The initial acquittal of Thomas and Normington in August 1770 is a chilling reflection of the times, but justice, though delayed, was not denied. They were eventually convicted and executed for highway robbery in 1774, bringing a grim end to the Coiners' reign of terror. Deighton's memorial serves as a stark reminder of his dedication and the ultimate price he paid for his pursuit of justice.

And then, there are the bridges. Brearley boasts not one, but two 18th-century bridges, each a testament to the engineering prowess of the time. One gracefully spans the River Calder, while the other arches over the historic Rochdale Canal. These sturdy structures, weathered by time and traffic, offer a glimpse into the transport networks that once connected this bustling region.

Brearley, then, is more than just a quiet hamlet. It's a place where the echoes of industrial revolution mingle with tales of faith and crime. It's a place where you can stand on centuries-old bridges and contemplate the lives that have passed beneath them. It's a place where history whispers from every stone and every bend in the cycle path. So, next time you find yourself travelling through West Yorkshire, take a moment to pause in Brearley. You might just hear the whispers of its fascinating past.

The pictures were taken on consecutive August weekends in 2016 with a Nikon d3300 Camera. Clicking any image below should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

This first set of 7 were taken on the 14th August 2016.

The former Brearley Baptist Chapel and Sunday School, now apartments.

The River Calder towards Brearley Bridge.

Stoney Springs House.

The former Baptist Chapel and Sunday School.

Brearley Bridge and the River Calder.

The next set of 6 pictures were taken on the 20th August 2016.

Brearley Bridge and Weir.

The former Baptist Chapel and Sunday School.

This stone chair is found on the footpath the runs between Brearley and Luddendenfoot alongside the railway.

The William Deighton Memorial Stone. The stone is a dedicated to William Deighton, a local tax inspector who was murdered by the Cragg Vale Coiners Gang.

Thanks for looking, please take a moment to share and follow me on social media, and check out my portfolio's on Photo4Me and ClickAsnap via the links below.

All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.

Dixon Scar Woods: A Hidden Gem in the Calder Valley

Nestled near the historic town of Sowerby Bridge, West Yorkshire, lies Dixon Scar Woods, affectionately known to locals as "Dixy Woods." This unassuming woodland, a sliver of green clinging to the steep hillside, offers a surprising escape into nature within a bustling industrial valley. Its unique topography, stretching from the tranquil banks of the River Calder at Hollins Mill up towards the solemn heights of Sowerby Bridge Cemetery, creates a diverse habitat and a captivating walking experience.

The woods are a testament to the region's industrial past, with the mainline railway slicing through its heart via the evocative Dixy Tunnel (or Cemetery Tunnel, as it's also known). This juxtaposition of nature and infrastructure adds a layer of historical intrigue to the landscape. Below, the valley floor reveals a patchwork of fields, the manicured expanse of Sowerby Bridge Cricket Club, and the ever-flowing River Calder, all overlooked by the verdant embrace of the woodland.

Exploring Dixy Woods reveals a network of paths, weaving through a tapestry of trees that change with the seasons. On September 7th, 2017, using a Nikon D3300, I embarked on a journey that began at the bridge spanning the River Calder at Hollins Mill. The path, initially hugging the river's edge, offered glimpses of the water's gentle flow and the valley's industrial heritage.

The lower reaches of the woods are characterized by a mix of mature deciduous trees, likely including oak, ash, and sycamore, providing a shaded canopy. The undergrowth, though perhaps dense in places, offered glimpses of wildflowers and the subtle signs of wildlife. The air, thick with the scent of damp earth and decaying leaves, carried the distant rumble of trains echoing through the tunnel.

As the path progressed, it led towards Tenterfields Business Park, a modern development marking the transition between Sowerby Bridge and Luddenden Foot. This section of the walk offered a contrast between the natural beauty of the woods and the more structured environment of the industrial park.

The journey culminated at Monkey Tunnel, a pedestrian passage that facilitates access from Tenterfields Bridge up towards the village of Boulderclough. This tunnel, a portal connecting different elevations and communities, symbolizes the way Dixy Woods acts as a bridge between landscapes and histories.

Clicking any of the images below should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

Wood Lane Railway Bridge.

Hollins Mill Weir, this was damaged in the 2015 Calder Valley Boxing Day floods.

The tunnel, which can be found near Tenterfields Business Park is known locally as Monkey Tunnel.

Another of the damaged Hollins Mill Weir.

Footbridge over the River calder at Hollins Mill.

Footbridge over the River Calder at Tenterfields.

Thanks for looking, please take a moment to share and follow me on social media, and check out my portfolio's on Photo4Me and ClickAsnap via the links below.

All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.

Broad Street Plaza: A Hub of Halifax Entertainment (and More!)

Broad Street Plaza, a modern mixed-use development, has become a cornerstone of Halifax's leisure scene since its grand opening in 2012. After years of planning by the local authority, this former car park site has been transformed into a vibrant hub, offering something for everyone.

While not all units are currently occupied, the plaza boasts a diverse range of amenities, making it a popular destination for a night out, a workout, or even a staycation. For film buffs, Vue Cinemas provides a state-of-the-art cinematic experience, while fitness enthusiasts can break a sweat at Pure Gym.

Need a place to stay? The Premier Inn offers convenient accommodation right in the heart of the action. And for those seeking healthcare services, an NHS health centre is also located within the complex.

Foodies will be spoiled for choice with a variety of dining options. From the hearty grills at Beefeater and the American classics at Frankie & Benny's and TGI Fridays, to the spicy delights of Nando's and the Italian flavours of Pizza Express, there's a restaurant to satisfy every craving. And of course, no town centre is complete without a Wetherspoons – The Percy Shaw, named after the Halifax inventor of cat's eyes, offers a friendly local pub atmosphere.

These photos, captured on May 27th, 2018, with my trusty Nikon D3300, showcase the plaza in its bustling glory. It's a testament to the town's ongoing development and a great place to spend an evening. Next time you're in Halifax, be sure to check it out!

Update 6th May 2025, a number of the businesses that occupied the plaza have since closed, Wetherspoons disposing of the Percy Shaw which now has new owners, so if your planning to visit you may want to check which restaurants are still trading. Clicking any of the images below should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography Store on Zazzle.

The pictures also feature in the YouTube video below,

Thanks for looking, please take a moment to share and follow me on social media, and check out my portfolio's on Photo4Me and ClickAsnap via the links below.

All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.