Skies Over Old Kent Road: A Glimpse of the Everyday Sublime

 There's something uniquely captivating about the skies above London. Even in the most urban of settings, where concrete and industry dominate the landscape, moments of unexpected beauty can emerge. This shot, taken On Verney Road, a short walk off the bustling Old Kent Road, perfectly encapsulates that feeling.

At first glance, it's a typical industrial backdrop. We see the silhouette of a chimney stack reaching skyward, a testament to the area's working-class heritage and ongoing activity. To the right, the skeletal frame of a crane hints at development and change – a constant in this ever-evolving city. And of course, the dark, angular roofline of a building grounds the scene, providing a sense of scale.

But then, your eyes lift, and the magic happens. The expansive sky, a canvas of soft blues and gentle greys, stretches out above. A lone aeroplane, a tiny speck against the vastness, slices through the air, leaving a crisp white contrail in its wake. This fleeting line, a temporary scar on the heavens, speaks of journeys, connections, and the invisible pathways that crisscross our world.

It's a reminder that even amidst the grit and grime of city life, there are always elements of grace and grandeur. The sky, unburdened by the earthly structures below, offers a sense of freedom and perspective. It's a place where dreams take flight, quite literally, and where the mundane can momentarily transform into something profound.

Next time you're navigating the familiar chaos of the Old Kent Road, take a moment to look up. You might just catch your own glimpse of the everyday sublime.

I took this picture with a Nikon d3300 on the 28th April 2016, clicking it should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

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The River Thames: From Woolwich Ferry's Perspective

 There's something uniquely captivating about the River Thames, a historic artery that winds its way through the heart of London. And one of the most intriguing ways to experience its dynamic character is from the deck of the Woolwich Ferry. In April 2016, armed with my trusty Nikon d3300, I had the pleasure of capturing a few moments from this vantage point, revealing different facets of the river and its surroundings.

The first view, looking eastward from the ferry terminal, offered a classic London panorama. Under a bright blue sky dotted with fluffy clouds, the river stretched out towards the horizon. The iconic silhouette of the Canary Wharf skyline dominated the distant cityscape, a testament to London's ever-evolving urban landscape. Closer to the shore, the muddy banks at low tide hinted at the river's tidal nature, while a lone vessel navigated the waterways, adding a touch of life to the scene. The low, yellow-tinged wall of the ferry terminal in the foreground served as a constant reminder of our unique position.

Then, as the ferry embarked on its journey, the perspective shifted. Looking eastward from the ferry itself, the glint of sunlight on the water was mesmerizing. The sun, lower in the sky, cast shimmering reflections across the waves, creating a dazzling path of light. The buildings along the river's edge, slightly silhouetted by the brightness, appeared as a continuous urban ribbon, hinting at the bustling life beyond the water's edge. The movement of the ferry created ripples, adding to the dynamic visual of the river.

Finally, a view of the North Shore from the moving ferry presented a different kind of tranquillity. The sun, less direct, allowed for a clearer view of the buildings lining the northern bank. The water here seemed calmer, with broader stretches of deep blue. The presence of other boats, including what appeared to be other ferries or workboats, reinforced the Thames as a working river, constantly in motion. The overall impression was one of vastness and continuity, with the river flowing steadily onward.

These snapshots, taken from the unique vantage point of the Woolwich Ferry, truly capture the essence of the River Thames – a blend of historical grandeur, modern urbanity, natural beauty, and ceaseless activity. It's a journey that offers a fresh perspective on a familiar landmark, and one I highly recommend for anyone looking to see London from a different angle.

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A Glimpse into Maritime History: Admiralty Pier, Dover Postcard

There's something uniquely captivating about old postcards. They're not just pieces of paper; they're tiny time capsules, offering a snapshot of a moment long past, a glimpse into landscapes, architecture, and daily life that may have changed dramatically. Today, I want to share a particular treasure from my collection: a vintage postcard depicting the iconic Admiralty Pier in Dover.

Looking at this sepia-toned image, I'm immediately transported to a bustling scene on the English Channel. The perspective from the pier itself stretches out into the vastness of the water, with the sturdy railings leading the eye towards the distant horizon. The details are what truly bring this image to life:

• The imposing structure of the Admiralty Pier: Built to withstand the relentless power of the sea, the pier itself is a testament to Victorian engineering ambition. Its robust construction speaks volumes about its purpose – to provide shelter and facilitate the vital maritime traffic of Dover.
• The lighthouse at the end: A beacon of safety for countless mariners, the lighthouse stands as a silent sentinel, guiding ships through the busy waters.
• Vessels in the background: Although somewhat indistinct, we can make out what appears to be a ship further out, perhaps a cross-channel ferry or a cargo vessel, highlighting Dover's role as a major port. The smaller structures in the water hint at the complex infrastructure needed to support such a busy maritime gateway.
• The vastness of the Channel: The sea itself, with its gentle swells, evokes the constant movement and energy of this critical waterway.

Why is the Admiralty Pier so significant?

The Admiralty Pier in Dover is more than just a pier; it's a monument to Britain's maritime heritage and its strategic importance. Its construction began in 1847, driven by the need for a deep-water harbour to accommodate the growing naval fleet and to serve as a vital link for cross-channel communication and trade. For decades, it was a hub of activity, witnessing the departure and arrival of countless ships, soldiers, royalty, and ordinary travellers.

Think of the stories this pier could tell! It would have seen:

• Victorian grandeur: The departure of well-dressed passengers on their grand tours of Europe.
• Wartime readiness: The comings and goings of naval vessels during various conflicts, especially the World Wars, given Dover's critical role in defending the realm.
• The evolution of travel: From paddle steamers to more modern vessels, the pier adapted to the changing face of maritime transport.

Dating the Postcard

While there's no precise date on the postcard itself, the style of the photograph, the sepia tone, and the general appearance of the vessels and pier suggest it likely dates from the early 20th century, perhaps between 1900 and 1930. This was a golden age for postcards, which served as both mementos and a primary means of quick communication. The "208/105" in the bottom right corner is a publisher's reference number, common on postcards of that era.

A Piece of My Collection, A Piece of History

For me, this postcard is more than just an image; it's a tangible link to a pivotal location in British history. It sparks curiosity about the people who walked that pier, the ships that docked there, and the events that unfolded against its backdrop. It serves as a reminder of Dover's enduring role as the "Gateway to England" and the sheer ambition and engineering prowess of generations past.

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A Glimpse into London's Past: Unpacking a Postcard of Hyde Park Corner

There's something uniquely captivating about old postcards. More than just a simple message carrier, they offer a tangible link to the past, a snapshot of a moment in time, and often, a surprising amount of historical detail if you know where to look. Today, I want to share a recent discovery from my own collection: a postcard depicting Hyde Park Corner and Constitution Arch, with some fascinating insights printed on its reverse.

The front of the postcard features a painting titled "Hyde Park Corner & Constitution Arch, c. 1829–34, by James Holland." Even at first glance, the scene is bustling with activity. We see a wide, unpaved thoroughfare, suggesting a time before modern road surfacing. People mill about, and there's a sense of movement and daily life unfolding. The architecture is grand and imposing, particularly the prominent archway, which we learn is Constitution Arch. To the right, another substantial building stands, identified on the back as St. George's Hospital.

What makes this postcard particularly compelling are the details provided on the reverse. It tells us that the painting captures the view "facing the entrance screen to Hyde Park, before it was moved to the top of Constitution Hill in 1883." This immediately sparks curiosity. The idea that such a substantial structure as Constitution Arch was moved is quite remarkable! A quick bit of research reveals that the arch, originally designed by Decimus Burton, was indeed relocated to accommodate road widening schemes. It's a testament to the engineering feats of the time and the ever-evolving nature of urban landscapes.

The postcard also highlights the "rough nature of the road surface," which is indeed very evident in the painting. This detail grounds the image in its historical context, reminding us of a time before asphalt and smooth pavements were commonplace. Imagine the dust, the mud, the rumble of horse-drawn carriages – it paints a vivid picture of London in the early 19th century.

Furthermore, the inscription mentions St. George's Hospital, "built in 1828–9," as being to the right. This gives us a precise timeframe for the painting and reinforces its historical accuracy. It's a reminder that these landmarks were not just static structures but active parts of the city's fabric, serving the community.

The postcard itself is a piece of history, too. It bears the mark of the London Museum and a copyright date of 1971, printed in England by Staples Printers Ltd., Kettering, Northants. This tells us that even in the early 1970s, this historical image was being disseminated, likely to educate and inform visitors about London's heritage.

This postcard is more than just a pretty picture; it's a miniature time capsule. It invites us to delve into the history of London, to learn about its architectural transformations, and to appreciate the everyday realities of life almost two centuries ago. It serves as a fantastic starting point for exploring the fascinating story of Hyde Park Corner, Constitution Arch, and the changing face of one of the world's great cities.

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Warland Reservoir: Unveiling History and Hidden Depths

Nestled amidst the dramatic Pennine landscape, Warland Reservoir offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, engineering marvels, and intriguing history. A recent visit provided a fascinating glimpse into this impressive body of water, revealing its past and the secrets it holds.

Our journey to Warland Reservoir began at an intriguing old entrance, marked by two weathered stone pillars bearing the inscription "R.C. W.W 1925." This carving points to the reservoir's deep historical roots, likely indicating the Rochdale Corporation Water Works, who extended the reservoir in 1927. While this date marks an expansion, the reservoir itself has a much older lineage; it was originally constructed around 1857 by the Rochdale Canal Company to ensure a consistent water supply for the canal, a vital artery of commerce in the region.

As we ventured further, the sheer scale of Warland Reservoir became apparent. On a cloudy day, the vast expanse of water stretched out before us, flanked by the sturdy dam wall and the rugged, moorland terrain. The water levels were noticeably low, exposing significant portions of the reservoir bed, which added a unique and somewhat stark beauty to the scene.

A prominent feature of the reservoir is its imposing intake tower, a testament to the engineering prowess involved in its creation. This castellated structure stands sentinel in the water, connected to the bank by a robust bridge, efficiently managing the water supply.

One of the most intriguing aspects of our visit was the sight of the "boat remains" exposed on the bed of Warland Reservoir. These skeletal remnants, looking like decaying wooden frames and structures, offer a poignant reminder of past activities on the water. Local accounts suggest that these boats, reportedly three in total, were deliberately submerged during World War II. The theory is that they were joined together with cables to prevent enemy seaplanes from landing on the reservoir and using it as a strategic staging point. While I only saw the remains of one boat during my visit, the idea of these submerged vessels playing a role in wartime defence adds a fascinating layer to Warland Reservoir's history.

Further exploration of the exposed reservoir bed revealed a surprising "waterfall" cascading down a rocky outcrop, an unusual sight in what would normally be submerged land. The vast, sandy, and muddy expanse, aptly named "The Beach" in one of the image descriptions, showed signs of erosion and the forces of nature at play.

Warland Reservoir is not just a functional body of water; it's a place with a story to tell. The visible "R.C. W.W 1925" sign, the majestic intake tower, and especially the mysterious sunken boat remains all contribute to a rich tapestry of history and intrigue. Our visit offered a unique perspective on this remarkable landscape, highlighting not only its natural beauty but also the human footprint left upon it over the decades. It's a place that invites contemplation, sparking questions about its past and the lives it has touched.

I took these pictures with Nikon d3300 on 27th May 2025, clicking any of the images below should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

The next 3 pictures were taken with my Canon EOS R100, again clicking on them should open a link to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

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All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.

Mearclough Bridge: A Winter's Tale

 On the Outskirts of the town of Sowerby Bridge, lies Mearclough Bridge standing as a testament to the area's rich history. This masonry arch bridge, with its elegant design, has witnessed centuries of change.

While the exact date of the original bridge's construction is uncertain, historical records mention a crossing here as early as 1314, the current stone bridge being constructed between 1774 and the early 19th Century, suggesting the bridge has been a vital crossing point for centuries.

In the 1970s, to meet the demands of growing traffic, particularly from heavy goods vehicles accessing the nearby recycling depot and other industrial units, the bridge underwent significant strengthening. This was achieved by 'saddling' it with reinforced concrete, a vital upgrade that allowed it to continue serving the community's evolving transportation needs. However, in the 2010s, with the construction of the new Copley Valley Bridge providing enhanced access to the valley via Holmes Road, Mearclough Bridge's role shifted, and its access was subsequently restricted to small vehicles only.

Mearclough Bridge offers a picturesque view, especially in winter. The snow-covered landscape transforms the bridge and its surroundings into a serene and captivating scene. The River Calder flows gently beneath, adding to the tranquil atmosphere.

I chose to present these images in black and white to emphasize the stark beauty of the winter snowfall. The monochromatic palette accentuates the textures of the snow-laden bridge and the surrounding landscape, creating a timeless and dramatic effect

I took these pictures on the 29th December 2017 with a Nikon d3300, clicking any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle. 

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From Railway Station to Resting Place: The Hunt for a Rugby Legend's Grave!

You know those moments when you're just… waiting? Like, really waiting? That was me, recently, at the Sowerby Bridge Railway Station. My usual tactic of staring blankly into the middle distance wasn't cutting it, so I turned my attention to the notice boards adorning the platform. And boy, am I glad I did!

Amidst the usual train timetables and local events, a short biography caught my eye – that of a Halifax Rugby League Footballer named Joe Riley (Gledhill). As I delved into the words, a little nugget of information jumped out at me: he was buried right here in Sowerby Bridge at the nearby Cemetery.

Now, I don't know about you, but there's something about a local hero and a nearby resting place that just sparks my inner detective. The mission was set: find Joe's grave!

Fast forward a few weeks to today, May 18th, 2025. Serendipity struck! I found myself near Sowerby Bridge Cemetery, and the opportunity to embark on my grave-hunting quest presented itself. Armed with my newfound knowledge, I ventured forth.

The Gledhill family, it turns out, has two plots side-by-side. My research, a quick dive into the digital archives (because who doesn't love a bit of pre-hunt internet sleuthing?), led me to believe that Joe's remains were interred with his mother and father in plot b312, to the right of his brothers' plot.

Here’s the thing, though: the headstone itself bears no mention of Joe. So, I'm crossing my fingers and toes that my information is spot on. But even if it’s not emblazoned on stone, the journey to find him was a brilliant little adventure, and it sparked a deeper dive into the life of this remarkable sportsman.

So, who was Joe Riley Gledhill? Let me tell you, this wasn't just any rugby player.

Joe Riley, Taken from the Halifax Panthers RLFC website, all rights and credits to the owner of the image. Click the image to be taken to the clubs Hall of Fame site.

Joe Riley Gledhill: A True Titan of the Turf (and Beyond!)

Born on June 16, 1882, right here in Sowerby Bridge, Joe was a force to be reckoned with. He played professional rugby league through the 1890s, 1900s, and 1910s, and even dipped his toes into coaching rugby union in the 1910s and 20s.

Imagine this: Joe represented Great Britain, England, and Yorkshire! He tore up the field for Sowerby Bridge and Halifax, a versatile player who could dominate as a centre, stand-off, or scrum-half. After his playing days, he even coached the newly established Halifax RUFC, alongside fellow Halifax Hall of Famer, Archie Rigg. Talk about a dynamic duo!

When he wasn't busy being a rugby legend, Joe worked for Smith, Bulmer & Co., a textile business in Holmfield. He passed away on February 28, 1950, at the age of 67, and his funeral fittingly took place in Sowerby Bridge Cemetery – bringing this story full circle.

A Career Bursting with Glory:

• International Caps: Joe earned caps for England against Wales in 1910 and Australia in 1911 while playing for Halifax. And get this – he even toured Australia and New Zealand with the 1910 Great Britain Lions, earning caps against Australia and Australasia!
• County King: He also proudly wore the Yorkshire cap while at Halifax.
• Challenge Cup Conqueror: Joe was no stranger to silverware! He played scrum-half in Halifax's 7-0 victory over Salford in the 1902–03 Challenge Cup Final. The next year, in the 1903–04 Challenge Cup Final, he was at centre and even scored a try in their 8-3 triumph over Warrington. What a legacy!
• Club Hero: Joe made his debut for Halifax on September 7, 1901. His playing career, sadly, was cut short by a badly broken leg sustained in a match against Bradford Northern in January 1915.
• A Well-Deserved Farewell: In 1920, a testimonial match was held for Joe and Asa Robinson at Thrum Hall, Halifax. A whopping 20,000 people showed up, and Joe received a cheque for £400 – a princely sum back then!
• Halifax Hall of Famer: It's no surprise that Joe Riley is a proud inductee into the Halifax Hall of Fame. His contributions to the sport are etched into the town's history.

So, while the headstone may be silent on Joe's individual triumphs, his story echoes through the history books and, thanks to a serendipitous moment at a railway station, now through the peaceful pathways of Sowerby Bridge Cemetery. It just goes to show, you never know what fascinating discoveries await when you keep your eyes (and your mind) open!

The pictures below were taken when I hopefully found his resting place. Clicking any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

The entrance to Sowerby Bridge Cemetery.

Joe Riley Gledhill parents grave and from my research also the final resting place of Joe.

The Gledhill family graves side by side.

A look across the un-consecrated section B at Sowerby Bridge cemetery.

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All the images remain the copyright of Colin Green.