Marsden Railway Station: Gateway to the Pennine Landscape

Marsden Railway Station, nestled in the picturesque village of Marsden, serves as a vital link on the Huddersfield - Manchester line, just east of the imposing Standedge Tunnels. This charming village stop, the last in West Yorkshire, offers a unique blend of historical railway architecture and stunning natural beauty, making it a popular spot for both commuters and leisure travellers exploring the nearby canal and tunnels.

The station, originally opened by the London & North Western Railway on August 1, 1849, has seen its share of changes. Once boasting four platforms, including an island platform 2, its layout was reduced to two lines and three platforms in the 1960s. Despite facing potential closure in the late 1960s, Marsden Station has persevered, continuing to serve trains heading towards Manchester and Leeds.

Access to the platforms varies. Platforms 1 and 2 are reached via steps descending from a nearby road bridge, while platform 3, located to the south of the station, offers a unique approach by crossing the tranquil Huddersfield Narrow Canal, which runs alongside it.

While the station is undoubtedly popular, especially for those venturing to the Standedge Tunnels and Huddersfield Narrow Canal, its facilities are somewhat limited. There is no visible disabled access, no public toilets, and only minimal shelter and seating on the platforms. Nevertheless, its appeal remains strong, with the station serving an impressive 175,000 passengers in the last full year before the pandemic, averaging approximately 3365 per week, ranking it as the 50th busiest in West Yorkshire.

This recent visit to Marsden Railway Station on July 25, 2020, was my second time exploring its character. My intention on this occasion was to embark on a walk along the scenic Huddersfield Narrow Canal towards Slaithwaite. For those interested, I have previously shared images from my last visit to the station. The photographs accompanying this post were captured using my Nikon D3300 SLR, aiming to showcase the station's charm and its beautiful surroundings.

Join me in these images as we take a closer look at Marsden Railway Station, a testament to railway heritage set against the stunning backdrop of the Pennine landscape.

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The Huddersfield Narrow Canal, Lock 42 which sits adjacent to Marsden
Railway Station Platform 3.

Bench and sign on the station's platform 1.

Taken from Platform 2, which was once an island platform with a third
accessible platform to my right. Platform 1 is to the right and the station's
entrance steps can be seen coming down from the bridge.

Huddersfield bound train stopping at platform 1.

Taken from the end of platform 2 looking across from what once
would have been the third platform to what is the modern day platform 3.

The stations only platform 1 and 2 entrance, the steps down from the bridge.

Looking eastwards along platform 2 in the direction of
platform 1.

Platforms 2 and 3 pictured from Station Road Bridge.

Platform 2 pictured from the end of platform 1.

Platform 1 and 2.

Platforms 1, 2 and 3 pictured from Station Road Bridge.

The former island platform 3 pictured from the current platform 3.

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All Souls Church, Haley Hill: A Victorian Masterpiece in Halifax

Nestled on Haley Hill in Halifax stands All Souls Church, a magnificent Victorian edifice with a fascinating history. This redundant Anglican place of worship, now lovingly cared for by the Churches Conservation Trust, is a testament to the vision of a local industrialist and social reformer, Edward Akroyd.

Akroyd, a prominent figure in Halifax, commissioned and funded the construction of All Souls Church, which was consecrated on November 2nd, 1859. Interestingly, the church's location, to the southwest of Akroyd's home, Bankfield, was reportedly chosen to obstruct the view of the Square Congregational Church, a prominent nonconformist place of worship. A touch of Victorian rivalry perhaps!

One of All Souls' most striking features is its towering spire, reaching an impressive 236 feet. This makes it approximately one foot higher than the spire of the Square Congregational Church and the second tallest in West Yorkshire, surpassed only by Wakefield Cathedral. From its intricate stonework to its commanding height, the spire is a true architectural marvel, as seen in the accompanying photos that capture its grandeur against a bright blue sky.

The church remained an active place of worship for many decades until a dramatic event in January 1977. Falling stone from the spire led to the church's closure, and the significant cost of repairs meant it was deemed uneconomical to maintain. For a time, the future of this architectural gem hung in the balance, with the threat of demolition looming.

However, a dedicated group, the Friends of All Souls Church, along with the National Heritage Memorial Fund, rallied to its cause. Repairs were undertaken in the early 1980s, and on August 2nd, 1989, the church was thankfully transferred into trust. All Souls was initially granted listed status on November 3rd, 1954, and this was subsequently amended to Grade I listed on November 23rd, 1973, recognizing its exceptional architectural and historical significance.

Today, All Souls Church is no longer in regular use but is open to the public on occasional Saturdays and during Heritage Open Days, allowing visitors to step inside and admire its breath taking interior. These photographs, taken on August 11th, 2018, with a Nikon D3300 SLR, offer a glimpse into the church's preserved beauty.

Inside, the church reveals a wealth of stunning details. The pulpit, with its elaborate carvings and contrasting marble columns, is a true work of art. The vibrant stained-glass windows, depicting biblical scenes and intricate patterns, cast colourful light across the nave, creating a serene and awe-inspiring atmosphere. The baptismal font, a sturdy and beautifully crafted piece, stands proudly beneath more exquisite stained glass. Looking from the front to the back of the church, one can appreciate the impressive scale of the nave, lined with rows of dark wooden pews leading to the grand altar.

The external views, including a sepia-toned shot showcasing the side entrances and the main arched doorway, hint at the rich history embedded in every stone. The detailed craftsmanship of the entrance, visible even through the dappled light filtering through the trees, invites contemplation of the countless individuals who have passed through these doors over the centuries.

All Souls Church, Haley Hill, stands as a testament to Victorian ambition, artistic skill, and the power of preservation. It's a truly special place that continues to inspire and offers a unique window into the past. If you ever have the opportunity, a visit to this magnificent church is highly recommended.

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The spire reachers a height of 236ft, 71 metres.

The west entrance.

The south entrance, this was bordered up to stop access when the church
closed, this was considered poor and a set of gates were commissioned
to make the entrance more appealing.

The font is made of Aberdeen granite and Cornish serpentine.

All Souls Nave pictured from the choir area.

Looking from the west part of the church east towards the choir.

The rear of the church.

The Pulpit by sculptor John Birnie Phillip is made of Caen
stone and Derbyshire limestone.

All the windows in the church are stained glass, these
were produced by John Hardman, William Wailes and
Clayton & Bell.

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Brighton Piers in Art Sketches

The Haunting Grandeur of Brighton's West Pier

Once a jewel of Victorian engineering and a bustling hub of seaside entertainment, the West Pier now stands as a haunting, skeletal silhouette off the coast of Brighton. Its current state of dereliction belies a rich and fascinating history, a testament to changing tastes, natural forces, and the passage of time.

Opened to the public on October 6, 1866, the West Pier was not Brighton's first; it followed the elegant Royal Suspension Chain Pier. However, it quickly carved out its own niche, becoming a beloved landmark. Its initial design, a marvel of cast iron and intricate detailing, was expanded in 1893, demonstrating its growing popularity. The addition of a magnificent concert hall during the First World War marked the pier's zenith. During this period, it buzzed with life, offering everything from theatrical performances and musical concerts to leisurely strolls and bracing sea air. It was a place where generations made memories, a vibrant cornerstone of Brighton's identity as a premier resort town.

However, the inter-war years brought a gradual decline in the pier's fortunes. Shifting holiday trends, economic pressures, and the rising popularity of other forms of entertainment chipped away at its dominance. By 1975, the difficult decision was made to close the pier to the public, marking the end of its active service.

What followed was a period of tragic neglect. Exposed to the relentless power of the sea and the elements, the pier began a slow, inevitable disintegration. Sections collapsed into the waves at various times, each loss a poignant reminder of its former glory. The new millennium brought particularly devastating blows. A major storm in 2002 inflicted extensive structural damage, leaving the pier a twisted wreck. As if nature's assault wasn't enough, a series of mysterious fires soon after sealed its fate, rendering any hope of restoration utterly futile. The iconic concert hall, once a beacon of entertainment, was reduced to a charred shell.

Despite its ruinous state, the West Pier holds a unique and protected place in architectural history. In 1982, it was awarded Grade I listed status, an extraordinary recognition that it remains the only pier in the United Kingdom to have received this highest level of protection. This designation acknowledges its exceptional architectural and historical significance, even in its decaying form. It stands as a powerful symbol of Victorian ambition and a poignant monument to the impermanence of even the grandest structures.

Today, the remains of the West Pier evoke a sense of melancholic beauty, a silhouette against the horizon that sparks curiosity and reflection. This artwork of its haunting remnants captures this very essence, a tribute to a structure that refuses to be forgotten, even as it crumbles into the sea.

West Pier Remains, Brighton

Brighton Palace Pier: A Victorian Icon Endures

From Humble Beginnings to Enduring Landmark:

Standing proudly against the Sussex sky, the Brighton Palace Pier isn't just a pier; it's a vibrant, living testament to Victorian ingenuity and a beloved symbol of Brighton's enduring charm. While Brighton once boasted a trio of magnificent piers, it is the Palace Pier, the third to grace the city's coastline, that remains – a sole survivor in a story of architectural ambition and the relentless passage of time. Opened in 1899, it quickly became a focal point for leisure and entertainment, building upon the legacy of its predecessors, the Chain Pier and the West Pier, which have sadly succumbed to the elements and the ravages of time.

A Pillar of History: Grade II Listed Status and Beyond:

Its historical significance was formally recognized on August 20th, 1971, when the Brighton Palace Pier was deservedly granted Grade II listed status. This designation isn't merely a bureaucratic formality; it's a powerful acknowledgment of its architectural merit, its cultural importance, and its irreplaceable role in the nation's heritage. This status protects its unique character, ensuring that future generations can continue to experience its grandeur and enjoy its timeless appeal. Imagine the countless footsteps that have trodden its wooden boards, the laughter that has echoed through its pavilions, and the memories that have been forged against the backdrop of its iconic silhouette.

More Than Just a Structure: A Thriving Hub of Entertainment:

To this day, the Brighton Palace Pier remains an undeniable magnet for tourists, drawing millions annually. It's far more than just a historical structure; it's a bustling microcosm of traditional seaside entertainment. The rhythmic clang of arcade games, the tantalizing aroma of fish and chips, the joyful screams from thrilling rides, and the panoramic views of the English Channel all coalesce to create an unforgettable sensory experience. From the classic helter-skelter and carousel to more modern, adrenaline-pumping attractions, the pier caters to every age and taste, embodying the very spirit of a quintessential British seaside holiday.

A Legacy of Resilience and Reinvention:

Its continued popularity is a testament to its remarkable resilience. It has weathered countless storms, both literal and metaphorical, adapting and evolving with the changing times while steadfastly retaining its quintessential Victorian charm. The Brighton Palace Pier is a living museum, a historical landmark, and a vibrant entertainment complex all rolled into one. It stands as a proud sentinel guarding Brighton's coastline, inviting visitors to step back in time while simultaneously embracing the excitement of the present, ensuring its place as a cherished icon for generations to come.

Brighton Palace Pier

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Churn Milk Joan: A Calder Valley Mystery (Artwork)

High on Midgley Moor, with the stunning Calder Valley sprawling below, stands a silent sentinel known as Churn Milk Joan. This impressive standing stone, also called Churn Milk Peg or Nelmires Stoop, reaches a height of approximately 7 feet, a towering testament to centuries of history.

Thought to have been erected as a boundary marker, its presence has been documented as far back as the 17th century. Imagine, for a moment, the countless generations who have walked past this stone, each with their own stories and their own connection to this rugged landscape.

The name "Churn Milk Joan" itself is steeped in local legend, believed to have originated in the early 19th century. It's said to be a poignant tribute to a milkmaid who tragically froze to death while attempting to cross the treacherous moor during a severe snowstorm, making her way from Peckett Well to Luddenden. A sombre reminder of the harsh realities faced by those who lived and worked on these unforgiving lands.

But Churn Milk Joan isn't just a historical relic; it's also a focal point for some fascinating local legends. One popular belief is that leaving a penny in the depression on top of the stone will bring you good luck. So, if you ever visit, perhaps try your luck and contribute to this ongoing tradition!

Another intriguing claim, steeped in mystery, suggests that the stone spins three times on New Year's Eve. This magical rotation is said to occur when the bells of St. Michael's Church in Mytholmroyd can be heard echoing around it. What makes this even more remarkable is that the stone is thought to predate the church by a couple of hundred years, adding another layer to the mystique surrounding this ancient monument.

Churn Milk Joan is more than just a stone; it's a window into the past, a keeper of local folklore, and a testament to the enduring spirit of the Calder Valley. Next time you're exploring the moors, keep an eye out for this captivating landmark and perhaps even leave a penny for good measure!

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Ancient Egyptian Gods

Ancient Egyptian Gods is a recent upload of mine on YouTube featuring 25 cigarette cards released in 1924 by Henly & Watkins LTD of London as part of their Egyptian branded cigarettes. Each card had a description of the god on the back which I wrote up alongside the images as the were featured in the slideshow. Also featured on the back was an offer to exchange a full set of cards for a "Genuine Egyptian Scarab"

Below is a selection of the cards featured in the video, the full set and descriptions of all 25 can only be seen on the video.

AMEN-RA
Amen-Ra became the national god of Egypt after the expulsion of
Hyksos, and because he was believed to have given Thothmes III,
a kingdom in Western Asia, and another in Sudan, he was called
"Lord of the Thrones of the Two Lands" and "King of the Gods".
His Favourite city was Thebes. Amen, or the hidden creative power
throughout the world, was worshiped under the early dynasties.
He was most revered about 2500BC, about 1600BC attributes of Ra
the Sun-god were ascribed to him, and so
he became Amen-Ra.

KHENSU
The Dual God Khensu, or Chonsu, was a very ancient form of
Moon-god as the swift traveller over the heavens, and the
messenger of the gods. Later he was identified with Thoth,
as the computer of times, and the Thebans made him the son
of Amen-Ra. In the picture he was represented with a single human body
having two hawks heads, and standing on the heads of the crocodiles
of the South and North. On his head are the lunar disk and horns. The
two-headed figure includes Khensu Nefer-hetep and Khensu,
the driver away of devils.

BES
Bes was a god probably of Sudan origin, and his cult entered
Egypt under the early dynasties. He is depicted as a dwarf or
pygmy and usually wears the skin of the animal Besa and a
headdress of plumes. He was the god of mirth, music, pleasures and
rejoicings of all kinds, jollity and feasting. He loved children, and
presided over their birth. In later times he was regarded as a form
of Horus, and symbolised the rising sun, new life, birth
and procreation. In one aspect he was a warrior god.

HATHOR
The goddess Het-Her, whom the Greeks called Hathor, became
incarnate in a special kind of cow, which was remarkable for
its beauty and fertility, and worshipped in predynastic times.
In later days she took the form of a most beautiful women,
and symbolised love and fertility, rejoicing and happiness. She
was an ancient Mother-goddess and Horus was her son. Many
of the great goddesses were only forms of her, and in her
seven-fold character, the Seven Hathors, she was the joy of the
gods, the generous friend of the living, and
nourisher of the dead.

OSIRIS-UNNEFER
Asar (Osiris) was originally a water-god and personified the Nile, but
after passing through many changes he became the supreme god of the
Underworld and judge of the dead. He took the form of a king and reigned.
He was murdered by Set, but Thoth, Isis, his son Horus and Anubis embalmed
him. He rose from the dead, and as Man-god was able to revivify his
followers in the Kingdom of Tuat. He became the Great Ancestor of
the Egyptians, and as the giver of everlasting life he was called
Unnefer, I.E the Good Being.

I included this image to show what the back of the cards looked
like with the descriptions that I added below the above pictures and alongside
the ones in the video. I also like the added touch at the bottom
to exchange a full set of cards for the Egyptian Scarab.

There are a total of 25 included in the video with descriptions too, they were released in the following order,

1   Horus-Set

2   Sebek-Ra

3   Nekhebit

4   Horus - The Son of Isis

5   Hathor (Het-Her)

6   Sebek-Nit

7   Osiris-Unnefer

8   Thoth

9   Anubis

10   Ta-Urt (Thoueris)

11   Serqet

12   Isis-Sept

13   Bast

14   Amen-Ra Her-Aakhuti

15   Sesheta

16   Bes

17   Her-Shefit

18   Horus - The Son of Isis

19   Khepera

20   Amen Ra - The King of the Gods

21   Sekhot (Sekmit)

22   Aah - The Moon God

23   Khensu - The Dual God

24   Ptah-Sekar-Asar

25   Shu

All these feature with description on the YouTube video.

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A Glimpse into the Past: The Piece Hall, Halifax (Pre-Refurbishment)

Before its stunning transformation into a vibrant modern destination, The Piece Hall in Halifax held a different, yet equally captivating, charm. Built as the last remaining cloth hall in the United Kingdom, this historic edifice has witnessed centuries of change. It's truly remarkable to think that in 1972, there were even discussions about demolishing this incredible piece of heritage!

I had the opportunity to capture some images of The Piece Hall on December 1, 2013, using my Samsung Galaxy Tablet. These photos offer a fascinating snapshot of the hall just prior to its multi-million-pound refurbishment, providing a glimpse into its character before it became the multi-purpose leisure and shopping hub we know today.

The Courtyard: A Canvas Awaiting Renewal

The courtyard in 2013, as seen in the images, was spacious and somewhat austere, with its vast expanse of paving. There were picnic benches scattered around, suggesting it was already a place for people to gather, albeit perhaps more casually. A large Christmas tree stood proudly in the centre, hinting at the festive spirit that still permeated the old hall even then. You can spot a temporary stage in some shots, indicating that events were held, but the overall impression was one of historical grandeur waiting to be fully awakened.

The various angles of the courtyard showcase the impressive architecture, with its countless windows and the repeating rhythm of the colonnades. The surrounding hills provide a dramatic backdrop, reminding us of Halifax's unique setting.

Architectural Details and Hidden Gems

Walking through the balcony walkways, captured in one of the black and white images, you can truly appreciate the sheer scale of the building. The long corridors, lined with pillars and windows, evoke a sense of history and the countless footsteps that have traversed these paths over the centuries.

And then there's the delightful surprise of the stairwell artwork! This vibrant and whimsical mural, with its trees, birds, and hot air balloons, adds a splash of colour and playfulness that might not be immediately associated with a grand Georgian building. It's a wonderful example of the character and unexpected artistic touches that existed within the hall before its modern overhaul. The "DANGER-WARNING" sign about small children squeezing through the railings also adds a touch of bygone charm and a reminder of public safety concerns even back then.

The Gates: A Welcome to History

The North and West Gates, with their imposing facades, served as the primary entry points. In 2013, the North Gate prominently displayed "The Piece Hall Halifax" and "Britain's oldest remaining Cloth Hall, Opened January 1st 1779," clearly emphasizing its historical significance. The West Gate also shared this information, along with details about the available shops, galleries, and tourist information. These entrances, while grand, perhaps didn't hint at the bustling vibrancy that would come to define them after the refurbishment.

Looking back at these images, it's clear that The Piece Hall, even before its recent transformation, was a place of immense historical importance and quiet beauty. While the refurbishment has undoubtedly brought new life and opportunities, these 2013 photographs serve as a valuable record of a moment in its long and fascinating journey. They remind us of the layers of history contained within its walls and how a vision, even when faced with calls for demolition, can save and re-imagine a truly iconic landmark.

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The North Gate, this and the South Gate were the original entrances
to the Hall, the West Gate being added in 1785 and the east Gate during the
hall's recent refurbishment.

The former cobbled courtyard, with the spire of Square Church visible.
The hall has offered a number of concerts since re-opening, the stage in it's 
pre refurbishment history offered token entertainment.

The halls balcony areas featured a number of shops in 2013, today
there are still a number shops, eateries and bars surrounding the
courtyard. This was the western area of the hall.

Looking across the then cobbled courtyard towards the south
western corner.

The west gate entrance to the hall, this was added in 1785.

The south eastern corner of the hall, the South Gate seen in the
middle of the picture, this is often used as the halls main access
point, the bridge raises up to allow larger vehicle entry.

The balcony area that surrounds the courtyard, this was taken from the
south eastern corner looking west. 

Artwork in one of the halls corner stairwells.

The north western corner of the Piece Hall.

Looking north east across the cobbled courtyard. The north gate
was once considered the halls main entrance, this was changed
in 1785 when the west gate opened.

The halls north gate seen across the courtyard.

The Piece Hall's South Gate, the hall and area around the gate was
recently filmed as part of a Marvel's Secret Invasion production, doubling as an
Eastern European Country

One of the halls corner stairwells.

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