A Night at the Gas Works Bridge: Sowerby Bridge's Industrial Past

Sowerby Bridge, a town steeped in industrial history, offers a unique blend of rugged Pennine landscape and a rich heritage shaped by its canals and rivers. As the sun sets and the streetlights cast a warm, golden glow, places like the Gas Works Bridge come to life, telling a story of a bygone era.

Standing on this unassuming pedestrian bridge over the River Calder, you're not just looking at a waterway; you're looking at the lifeblood of an industrial revolution. The River Calder, flowing beneath the bridge, was a key artery for trade, powering the textile mills and feeding the Calder and Hebble Navigation and the Rochdale Canal, which meet just a stone's throw away. This confluence of waterways made Sowerby Bridge a vital trans-shipment hub, connecting the industrial heartland of Yorkshire to the ports of Hull and Liverpool.

But the Gas Works Bridge has its own fascinating history, one that's closely tied to the very name it bears. Built in 1816, this bridge is a significant piece of engineering. Made of cast iron by Aydon and Elwell of Shelf Ironworks in Bradford, it's one of the earliest surviving cast-iron bridges in the Calderdale area. Originally a road bridge, it was widened in the mid-19th century with a steel overlay, and today it serves as a footpath, a quiet walkway for those looking to connect with the town's past.

The bridge's name, however, isn't just a label—it's a historical marker. It was built for Thomas Fearnside & Son of Mearclough Bottom Mill, but it’s the nearby gas works that gave it its enduring name. The former gas works site, located near the bridge, was a crucial part of the town's infrastructure, supplying power for streetlights, factories, and homes. In fact, a gas-making plant was installed in Sowerby Bridge as early as 1805, a remarkably early example of commercial gas production. Though the gas works closed in 1954, the bridge remains as a testament to this important part of Sowerby Bridge's industrial legacy.

As you stand on the bridge at night, the lights of the town and the distant beacon of Wainhouse Tower on the hill create a striking contrast against the dark sky and the reflective surface of the river. The photos capture this atmosphere perfectly—the warmth of the lamplight, the cool blue of the distant town, and the haunting silhouette of bare winter trees. It's a scene that bridges the past and present, a quiet moment of reflection in a place that once thrummed with the energy of industry and innovation. The Gas Works Bridge is more than just a crossing; it's a silent guardian of Sowerby Bridge's history, a place where you can feel the echoes of its industrious past in the calm of the night.

I took these pictures on the 29th December 2018 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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Lost on an English Lane: A 1970s Snapshot from My Slide Collection

There’s something truly special about digging through old 35mm slides. Each one is a tiny window to a moment frozen in time, and recently, I found one that perfectly captures a quintessential piece of British history. This image, which I've now digitized, immediately caught my eye with its vibrant colours and classic elements.

When Was This Taken? The Clues Are in the Cars!

One of the most exciting parts of these old slides is playing detective with the details. In this shot, the two cars on the road give us some excellent clues:

• The Green Morris Minor Traveller: This iconic "Woody" estate car is a true British classic. What's even better is that we can clearly make out its registration plate: OCK 74J. In the UK, the single-letter suffix on number plates indicates the year of registration. The 'J' suffix was issued between August 1, 1970, and July 31, 1971. This dates our photo pretty precisely to the early 1970s!

• The Red Car: Further down the road, a smaller red car, likely a Mini or similar compact, follows. Its presence further solidifies the early 70s vibe.

So, we can confidently say this photo was snapped sometime between late 1970 and the mid-1970s.

Where in England?

While the exact spot remains a mystery, the elements in the picture strongly suggest a location:

• The Red Telephone Box: This is the famous K6 'Jubilee' kiosk, designed by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott. These boxes are synonymous with Britain and were a common sight in towns and rural areas.

• The Tree-Lined Road: It looks like a classic B-road or a quieter A-road, winding through what appears to be the English countryside, bordered by a traditional stone wall and lush greenery.

• The 'OCK' Registration: Interestingly, the "OCK" prefix on the Morris Minor's plate was issued in the Oxfordshire region. While cars travel, this provides a strong hint that the photo might have been taken in or around Oxfordshire, or a neighbouring county in the South or Central Midlands of England.

A Scene of Simple Beauty

What I love about this photograph is its everyday charm. It’s not a grand landscape or a momentous event, but a quiet, ordinary moment on a road that has undoubtedly seen countless journeys. The vivid red of the telephone box stands out against the greens of the trees and grass, a burst of colour that feels so distinctly British. The cars, now considered classics, were simply part of the flow of traffic then.

It reminds us of a time when these phone boxes were vital communication hubs, and when a journey down a country lane felt a little more timeless, a little less hurried.

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A Journey into the Heart of Whitby: Where the Harbour Meets History

There are some places that feel like a story waiting to be told, and Whitby is one of them. Nestled on the rugged North Yorkshire coast, this ancient fishing port is a captivating mix of salty sea air, winding cobbled streets, and a history as rich and deep as the North Sea itself. While many are drawn to its Gothic clifftops, a true understanding of Whitby begins at the water's edge, in the bustling town and the timeless harbour that defines it.

The Pulse of the Port: A Living History

Whitby’s lifeblood has always been its harbour. Divided by the iconic swing bridge, which gracefully pivots to let vessels pass, the harbour is a constant hub of activity. Here, the everyday rhythm of a working port is on full display. Fishing trawlers chug in and out, their holds filled with the day's catch, while pleasure boats like the replica of Captain Cook's Endeavour offer a glimpse of the town from the water.

The harbour is also a place of simple, timeless pleasures. You’ll find families huddled on the quayside, lines in hand, engrossed in the great British seaside tradition of crabbing. It’s here that the seagulls, ever-present and vocal, create the classic soundtrack to a day out. As the tide goes out, the mud and sand of the River Esk are exposed, a reminder that this is a place shaped by the very forces of nature.

Whitby's maritime heritage is monumental. It was once a powerhouse of shipbuilding, where legendary vessels—including those for Captain James Cook's epic voyages—were constructed. The town also had a significant role in the whaling industry, a past remembered today by the striking Whalebone Arch on the West Cliff, a powerful tribute to this bygone era.

Wandering the Labyrinth: East and West

From the harbour, the town rises on both sides of the River Esk, each with its own distinct character. On the east, a warren of narrow, cobbled alleys and hidden courtyards invites you to get lost. It's a place where history is etched into every stone, with ancient streets and a market place dating back to the 17th century. Here, independent shops overflow with treasures, including the famous Whitby Jet, a black gemstone polished to a deep shine. Its history, from its formation millions of years ago to its rise to popularity in Victorian England, is as fascinating as the town itself.

Crossing the swing bridge to the west side, the streets open up into a more modern but equally charming area. This is the place for a classic British seaside experience. The air is thick with the irresistible aroma of freshly cooked fish and chips, a local delicacy for which Whitby is renowned. A visit isn't complete without a trip to one of the famous chippies, where you can enjoy your meal straight from the paper while watching the boats bob in the harbour.

Whether you're exploring the historic landmarks, browsing the shops for a unique souvenir, or simply soaking in the atmosphere with a delicious portion of food, Whitby’s town and harbour offer an experience that is both authentic and unforgettable. It's a place that tells a story of discovery, industry, and enduring coastal charm, a perfect starting point for any North Yorkshire adventure.

The pictures below were taken in August 2018 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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Back to the '60s: Discovering the Charm of the Welsh Coracle

I recently rediscovered a fantastic piece of history—a 35mm slide from my collection, likely dating back to the 1960s. After digitizing it, I just had to share this glimpse into a timeless piece of Welsh heritage: the Coracle boat.

This photograph captures a beautifully rustic coracle resting on a shingle bank beside a river, its single, broad-bladed paddle lying across the wooden seat. It's a snapshot that transports you straight to the quiet waterways of Wales over half a century ago.

The Tiny Boat with a Huge History

If you're not familiar with it, a coracle (cwrwgl in Welsh) is a small, light, round or oval-shaped boat, designed for one person. It’s essentially a frame, historically made of woven willow or ash laths, covered with a waterproof material—in ancient times, animal hide, but by the mid-20th century, typically canvas or calico coated with tar or bitumen paint.

What makes them so fascinating is their incredible history. Coracles date back to pre-Roman times! They are one of the oldest forms of water transport in the world, with Julius Caesar even noting their use by the ancient Britons.

A River-Wise Design

The coracle's design is perfectly suited to its environment:

• Keel-less and Flat-Bottomed: This allows the boat to float in just a few inches of water, making it ideal for navigating shallow streams and fast-flowing rivers like the Teifi and Tywi in West Wales.

• Lightweight: Crucially, a coracle is light enough to be carried on the fisherman's back, often using a strap attached to the seat. This meant they could easily be transported between different stretches of water or carried home along with the day’s catch. This portability is key to the craft's endurance.

• Unique Propulsion: They are propelled by a single paddle, used in a figure-of-eight 'sculling' motion. This allows the fisherman to steer and move while keeping the other hand free for fishing—often for salmon or sea trout using a long, fine net, a traditional method still practised under license in parts of Wales today.

A Glimpse into the 1960s

The boat in the slide looks like a traditional working craft—its dark, tarred covering and simple wooden seat speak to utility and tradition. While the 1960s were a time of rapid change, this image reminds us that some ancient crafts were still very much a part of everyday life along Wales's rivers.

It's a wonderful memory to unearth from an old box of slides. Clicking the image should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

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Behind the Stands: A Glimpse of Huddersfield's Accu Stadium on a Quiet Day

On a bright late-May day in 2023, with a Nikon D3300 in hand, I took a stroll around the perimeter of what is currently known as the Accu Stadium in Huddersfield. The gates were closed, meaning no peek inside at the hallowed turf, but even from the outside, the stadium's distinctive architecture and the quiet hum of its surroundings offered plenty to appreciate and reflect upon.

Currently known as the Accu Stadium, and previously known as the John Smith's Stadium, Kirklees Stadium, the Galpharm Stadium and the Alfred McAlpine Stadium, this multi-purpose venue is a true landmark for Huddersfield. It's the proud home of two significant sporting institutions: Huddersfield Town AFC, affectionately known as "The Terriers," and the Huddersfield Giants Rugby League Football Club.

The stadium's design is striking, particularly its curved roofs and distinctive white trusswork that arch over the stands. This architectural flair isn't just for show; it's a testament to modern stadium design when it opened. The images capture these arches beautifully against the clear blue sky, hinting at the vastness within, even when empty. Opened in 1994, it was initially a ground-breaking venture, moving both clubs from their historic but aging homes – Leeds Road for Huddersfield Town and Fartown for the Huddersfield Giants. This move was a significant step forward, providing state-of-the-art facilities for both clubs and their fans.

One of the most interesting facts about the stadium is its innovative funding model. It was developed through a unique partnership between Kirklees Metropolitan Council, Huddersfield Town AFC, and Huddersfield Giants. This collaborative effort ensured that the town retained significant ownership and control, a model that has since been emulated by other clubs. The stadium company, Kirklees Stadium Development Ltd (KSDL), manages the venue, overseeing everything from match days to conferences and concerts.

Even on a quiet Saturday, with no match-day crowds or roaring fans, the stadium exudes a certain presence. The surrounding pathways and car parks, usually teeming with activity, were empty, allowing for a different perspective on the venue. You can imagine the roar of the crowd emanating from within the stands, where a glimpse of the blue seating is visible through the gates. The towering floodlights, stand sentinel, ready to illuminate evening games and create that special atmosphere under the lights.

The external signage, such as "THE CORE STAND" and "THE TERRIERS,", proudly displays the stadium's identity and its connection to its sporting tenants. It's a reminder that this isn't just a building; it's a home, a place of shared memories, triumphs, and sometimes, heartbreaks for thousands of supporters.

Driving around the stadium, as captured in the various images, you get a sense of its integration into the local landscape. Nestled amongst trees and green spaces, it's a substantial structure that nonetheless blends with its surroundings. The approach roads and parking areas, while functional, are softened by the greenery, where the stadium peeks out from behind lush foliage.

While I couldn't step onto the pitch or sit in the stands this time, these external shots offer a valuable insight into the Accu Stadium (or Kirklees Stadium, as it is widely known). They showcase its architectural significance, its role as a dual-sporting arena, and the quiet dignity it holds even on a non-match day. It's a place that buzzes with life and passion, and even from the outside, you can feel the echoes of countless sporting moments.

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Heptonstall and the Old Grammar School

On a grey, autumnal day in November 2013, a Samsung Galaxy tablet captured a series of images that perfectly encapsulate the enduring charm and rich history of Heptonstall, a village perched on the hills above Hebden Bridge in West Yorkshire. The subject of these photos, the Heptonstall Museum, is more than just a building; it's a Grade II-listed testament to centuries of change, a cornerstone of a community steeped in history.

The building that now houses the museum has had a fascinating journey through time. Its origins trace back to around 1600, when it was constructed not as a place of learning, but as a warehouse. This was a time when the woollen trade was the lifeblood of the Pennines, and Heptonstall was a bustling centre for handloom weaving. You can still see hints of this industrial past in the large first-floor windows of many local cottages, designed to maximise the light for the weavers working within.

In 1771, the building was given a new purpose when it was converted into the Heptonstall Grammar School. The photos from 2013 show the solid stone structure and classic architecture, elements that have witnessed generations of students passing through its doors. The school served the community until its closure in 1889. While the modern world moved on, the building's story didn't end there. For a time, it housed the Yorkshire Penny Bank, before finally reopening its doors in August 1972 as the Heptonstall Museum.

The museum today is a treasure trove of local history, offering a window into the past. It tells the story of the village's prehistoric beginnings and its role in significant events, including the Battle of Heptonstall during the English Civil War in 1643. One of the most captivating exhibits delves into the notorious Cragg Vale Coiners, a gang of counterfeiters who plagued the area in the 18th century. Their leader, "King" David Hartley, is buried in the nearby churchyard—one of the many historical figures whose stories are woven into the fabric of Heptonstall.

Speaking of the churchyard, it is perhaps one of the most unique in the country. It is home to not one, but two churches. The ruins of the Church of St Thomas a Becket, founded in the 13th century and severely damaged in a storm in 1847, stand as a hauntingly beautiful shell. Just yards away, the newer St Thomas the Apostle church, built in the 1850s, stands proudly, a symbol of resilience. This dual churchyard is also the final resting place of American poet Sylvia Plath, a poignant connection to the wider literary world.

The Heptonstall Museum, housed in its old grammar school building, serves as a perfect starting point for exploring this remarkable village. It's a place where the past isn't just displayed, it's alive in the very stones of the building and the stories they tell.

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A Summer's Day in 1986: Abingdon-on-Thames and Its Iconic Bridge

There’s a certain magic to slides that are not only beautiful but also come with a precise date! This 35mm slide from my collection, captured in July 1986, instantly transports you back to a glorious summer's day at Abingdon-on-Thames. What a classic English scene it presents!

The photograph perfectly frames the tranquil River Thames, dotted with an array of pleasure boats, all set against the backdrop of Abingdon's historic architecture and its famous bridge, though only a glimpse of the bridge itself is truly prominent in this angle.

The Heart of Abingdon: The River and its Spire

The most striking feature, beyond the bustling river life, is the magnificent spire of St Helen's Church piercing the blue summer sky. This distinctive spire is an unmistakable landmark of Abingdon, confirming our location instantly. The red-tiled roofs of the buildings nestled among the trees complete the picturesque English townscape.

Life on the Thames in the Mid-80s

The river itself is a hive of gentle activity:

• Pleasure Boats: A variety of motor cruisers and cabin boats are moored along the banks or gliding on the water. These vessels, with their classic 1980s designs, really help to solidify the image's date. They evoke a sense of leisurely summer holidays and weekend escapes.

• Abingdon Bridge: While not the central focus of this specific shot, the Abingdon Bridge is just out of frame to the left, and the scene is set directly alongside the famous crossing. The perspective here shows the lively river banks downstream or upstream of the bridge. The older buildings would be part of the historic riverside.

• Riverside Life: On the left, people are enjoying the sunshine on the grassy bank. Some are seated on a bench, others strolling, taking in the peaceful atmosphere. The relaxed clothing and hairstyles are also subtle nods to the mid-80s fashion.

• Boat Hire/Information: The small building on the right, nestled among the boats, looks like a boat hire facility or a river information point, a common sight on popular stretches of the Thames.

The Charm of a July Day

The light in the photograph is typical of a bright English summer day – a mix of sunshine and soft clouds, creating a lovely, diffused quality. The lush green of the grass and trees speaks to the height of summer, making you almost feel the warmth and hear the gentle lapping of water against the boats.

This slide isn't just a photograph; it's a sensory memory of a specific moment in time. It reminds us of leisurely days spent by the river, the simple joy of a sunny afternoon, and the enduring beauty of historic English towns.

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The Secret Stairways of Halifax: A Journey Up the Snickets

In the heart of West Yorkshire lies a town where history is etched into every stone wall and winding street. Halifax is a place of grand Victorian architecture and industrial heritage, but its true character is often found in the hidden corners and forgotten paths. For those with a curious spirit, these places are an invitation to step back in time. Nowhere is this more apparent than in the town's numerous snickets, narrow alleyways or passages that often take the form of steep, cobbled stairways.

Inspired by a recent trip to Old Lane near Boothtown, I captured two such snickets, each a unique testament to the town's past.

Snicket 1: The Gentle Ascent

The first snicket appears almost as an open invitation. Its worn stone steps are wide, leading up a gradual slope between two sturdy stone walls. On the left, a weathered wooden fence hints at a private garden, while a bare tree stands as a silent sentinel. The path is littered with autumn leaves, and the wet cobbles gleam under the grey sky.

This snicket feels like a well-trodden path, a practical shortcut used by generations of locals. It's a connection between two worlds: the quiet residential street below and whatever lies at the top. The image evokes a sense of tranquillity, a brief moment of quiet contemplation before returning to the rhythm of daily life.

Snicket 2: The Vertical Climb

Just a short distance away, the second snicket presents a stark contrast. This is not a path for the faint of heart. Narrow and steep, it rises like a vertical ribbon of stone. A metal handrail runs alongside the towering stone wall, a necessary aid for those brave enough to make the climb. The walls themselves are a patchwork of different-sized stones, telling a story of repairs and rebuilds over the decades. The vegetation on the left, overgrown and wild, adds to the feeling of a passage carved directly from the landscape itself.

This snicket is a challenge, a true "Boothtown" climb that speaks to the rugged terrain of the area. It feels more secluded and intimate than the first, a hidden passage known only to those who need to use it. It is a reminder that in Halifax, some of the most beautiful and interesting places require a bit of effort to discover.

Why We Love the Snickets

These images, captured in stark black and white, highlight the texture and form of these pathways, stripping away the distractions of colour to reveal their raw, historical beauty. They show us that a snicket is more than just a shortcut; it's a living part of the community's history. These aren't manicured tourist attractions; they are the veins and arteries of the town, connecting homes, streets, and people. They are a physical representation of the town's resilience and its enduring spirit.

Next time you find yourself in Halifax, I encourage you to look beyond the main roads. Seek out a snicket. Take a moment to feel the history under your feet and imagine the countless journeys that have been made on those very same stones. You might just discover a new appreciation for the secret stairways that define this incredible town.

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All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green. These were taken with a Nikon d3300 on the 23rd December 2023.