Comic Book Style Artworks of Sowerby Bridge

         

My Sowerby Bridge in comic book style images was a set of pictures created by me, that are based on photographs I had taken earlier. I created the artworks as part of a YouTube video slideshow, mainly to try and show something different to my usual. All the images can be seen below the YouTube Video and each place is named although i'm sure if you are local to Sowerby Bridge you will know where they are.

The following images are all featured in the slideshow, clicking on any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

The Canal Basin, the picture shows the Calder & Hebble side with the Moorings
bar visible. The boats moored are those of Shire Cruises.

Bolton Brow Wesleyan Chapel, the building is now apartments.

The canal basin, the Calder & Hebble side featured again.

Church Bank from Sunnybank Street, Christ Church Clock Tower is visible.

Church Bank, Orrell House to the left

Hollins Mill Tunnel, The Rochdale Canal passing through it's arch.

The Jubilee Refreshment Rooms, formerly Sowerby Bridge Railway Station
ticket office.

Lock Number 2 on the Rochdale Canal, Christ Church Clock Tower, Ladstone
and Houghton Towers can be seen on the skyline.

This mileage sign can be found on the Rochdale Canal to the west
of Hollins Mill Tunnel.

The mainline railway viaduct crossers over the River Ryburn, just
before the Ryburn joins with the River Calder.

The River Calder at Mearclough Bridge, (Milner Royd).

The River Ryburn near the Swimming Baths towards Station Road.

Lock 2 on the Rochdale Canal, the Roxy is the building on the left.

Looking over the town from Beech Road.

Sowerby Bridge Railway Station.

The River Calder Canoe Slalom from County Bridge.

The Town Hall Clock Tower, formerly Lloyds Bank, soon to be a restaurant,
never been a town hall from County Bridge.

The Rochdale Canal in to Tuel Lane Tunnel, this section was reopened
in the late 1990's, Christ Church is in the centre and the Roxy to the right.

Victoria Bridge over the River Ryburn.

Village Indian Restaurant, formerly the Wharf and Ash Tree pubs.

Willow Hall Dam, the waterfall is the overflow from the upper dam
in to the lower dam featured.

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All the images remain the copyright of Colin Green.

Church Bank: A Cobbled Journey Through Sowerby Bridge's Past

Nestled on the hillside of Sowerby Bridge, amidst the hustle and bustle of modern life, lies Church Bank – a beautifully cobbled road that whispers tales of a bygone era. Once a vital artery connecting the upper reaches of the town with the bustling Wharf Street below, Church Bank today offers a tranquil, almost hidden, pedestrian and cyclist's escape.

These evocative images, captured on a bright April day in 2022 with a Nikon D3300 SLR, invite us to explore this fascinating thoroughfare and uncover its rich history.

A Route Reimagined

Looking at the images, particularly, you can clearly see the charming cobblestones that define this route. Once, these very cobbles would have echoed with the clip-clop of hooves and the rumble of carts, serving as one of the primary arteries linking the hillside to the industrial heart of Sowerby Bridge at Wharf Street.

However, Church Bank's status as a main vehicular access route came to an end in the 1950s. This period saw significant changes to the local landscape, most notably the extension of Tuel Lane and the infilling of sections of the Rochdale Canal. Around this time, local authority housing was constructed on the Church Bank hillside, leading to the road's closure to through traffic.

Today, while cars can still access a portion of Church Bank from Wharf Street, the connection to Church View - Sunnybank Street is now exclusively for pedestrians and cyclists, as evident in the pictures, which shows the narrow, walled section leading to the upper street. This transformation has allowed Church Bank to retain its historic charm, offering a peaceful ascent or descent away from the main roads.

Orrell House: A Landmark on the Rise

As you make your way up Church Bank, approximately a quarter of the way, you encounter Orrell House, occupying a unique plot of land nestled between Church Bank and Grange Place. For many years, Orrell House served the community as a doctor's surgery, a place of healing and care. More recently, it has been transformed into a private residence, though its grand facade still speaks of its significant past.

Towards Christ Church: A Glimpse of Grandeur

The cobbled path continues, lined with mature trees, eventually opening up to reveal the magnificent tower of Christ Church. This view beautifully illustrates how Church Bank once directly led to the church, underscoring its historical importance as a direct link for parishioners and residents. The bare branches of the trees in this spring shot hint at the seasonal beauty that transforms this path throughout the year.

Church Bank, then, is more than just a cobbled path; it's a living piece of Sowerby Bridge's heritage. It's a reminder of how towns evolve, how old routes adapt, and how, even in the midst of change, pockets of historical charm can be preserved. Next time you're in Sowerby Bridge, take a moment to explore Church Bank – you'll be walking through history, one cobblestone at a time.

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

Taken from the bottom of Church Bank, with Wharf Street behind me, Orrell House
is largely hidden from view to the right of the picture.

Taken from the top of Church Bank, Sunnybank Street behind me and Church
View to my right. Christ Church can be seen in the centre of the image.

About half way up or down, Church View can be seen to the left.

Looking down with Wharf Street Visible, Orrell House is
hidden behind the wall to my left.

Again about half way up or down depending on your perspective,
it's hard to believe this was once a busy route in to town.

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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.

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

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.

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

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

Clicking either image should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

Please take a moment to share this post, follow me on social media, and explore my work on Clickasnap and Photo4Me using the links below. Your support means a lot!