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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Hebden Bridge: A Journey Through Time and Transformation

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Calder Valley, Hebden Bridge is a unique township, historically encompassing the areas of Erringden, Heptonstall, Stansfield, and Wadsworth. Its very essence is intertwined with water, as it's the point where the River Calder gracefully meets the Colden and Hebden waters. These flowing arteries were instrumental in the town's growth, particularly with the boom of the cotton spinning industries that once defined its industrious character.

The town's intriguing name has its roots in its origins as a fording point across Hebden Water. This crucial crossing was eventually replaced by a sturdy packhorse bridge in 1510, a testament to the town's early importance as a thoroughfare. Further enhancing its connectivity, the Rochdale Canal arrived in the 1790s, followed by the opening of the railway in 1841, firmly integrating Hebden Bridge into the burgeoning transportation networks of the era.

However, the tide of industry began to turn in the 1950s and 60s, as Hebden Bridge's cotton spinning industries gradually declined. This shift paved the way for a remarkable transformation. By the 1970s, the town earned a new, vibrant identity as a "hippy town." An influx of artists, writers, photographers, musicians, and those embracing green and new-age philosophies breathed new life into the area, converting many of the unused industrial buildings into creative spaces and homes.

Today, Hebden Bridge stands as a testament to resilience and reinvention. It has blossomed into a popular tourist destination, drawing visitors with its bohemian charm, independent shops, and stunning natural surroundings. It also attracts a new wave of residents who appreciate its unique character and community spirit, many of whom commute to the nearby vibrant cities of Leeds, Manchester, and Sheffield.

The images shared below, captured on November 16, 2013, with a Samsung Galaxy Tablet, offer a glimpse into the enduring beauty of Hebden Bridge. Clicking any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

West End Bridge.
Built in 1772 along with the new turnpike as a replacement for the old
packhorse bridge further north. The bridge was widened
in 1835.

Weir on Hebden Water.
The weir will have been used to power the nearby
Cotton Spinning mills.

Hebden Water.
Taken looking south towards West End Bridge from the top of the
Old Packhorse Bridge.

Nutclough Mills.
Built alongside Hebden Water in 1791.

The Old Packhorse Bridge.
Pictured from St George's Bridge along Hebden Water.
The fording point used to be along this stretch that the bridge was built
to replace. This bridge opened in 1510 replaced an earlier timber bridge.
That bridge was somewhere between where I was stood and the 
old Packhorse Bridge.

The Old Packhorse Bridge and White Swan,
The bridge was built in 1510, it is still accessible to pedestrians.
The White Swan opened in the 1770's and was originally known as
Bridge End.

St George's Bridge and Bridge Mill.
Bridge Mill also known as St George's Square was built as a corn mill
in the 14th Century, it is ones of Hebden Bridge's oldest buildings.
Discussions were had in the 1970's about demolishing the mill but
thankfully this came to nothing, it is now home to a number of shops and cafe's.

St George's Bridge and the Shoulder of Mutton.
St George's Bridge opened in 1893 at a cost of £1350, it is
of cast-iron construction, Grade II listed and has been modified
in 1911 and 1961.

The weir at Nutclough.
The weir was most probably built to power Nutclough Mills which
overlook Hebden Water here.

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Above the Pyrenees: A Sky-High Glimpse of Spanish Grandeur

There's something truly magical about seeing the world from above, especially when that world is as majestic as the Pyrenees. In July 2014, I had the incredible opportunity to capture a series of breathtaking aerial views of this iconic mountain range while on a flight.

The Pyrenees, as many know, form a natural boundary between France and Spain, with the charming Principality of Andorra nestled right within its peaks. The specific area I was soaring over when I snapped these five pictures was the Natural Park of Posets-Maladeta, located in the Huesca, Aragon region of Northern Spain.

It was a beautiful Thursday, July 17th, 2014, and the views were simply unforgettable. From my window seat, with my trusty Polaroid is2132 bridge camera in hand, I tried to capture the scale and beauty of the landscape below. The sun glinted off the snow-capped peaks, even in the height of summer, highlighting the rugged terrain and the deep valleys carved out over millennia. You can spot the patchwork of green forests, the winding rivers, and even the hints of human habitation nestled among the giants.

Each photograph tells a part of the story, showcasing the diverse features of this incredible natural park. From the sweeping vistas that reveal the sheer expanse of the mountains to the more detailed shots that highlight the intricate valleys and the remaining patches of snow, it was a privilege to witness such a spectacular panorama.

These images serve as a wonderful reminder of the raw beauty and impressive scale of the Pyrenees. It's a region that truly inspires awe, whether you're exploring its trails on foot or simply admiring its grandeur from thousands of feet up in the sky.

I hope you enjoy these glimpses into the stunning Natural Park of Posets-Maladeta, a true jewel of the Pyrenees!

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Decoying the Blitz: Uncovering the Remains of Operation Starfish on Sowerby Moor

 High on the expansive moors above Sowerby, amidst the windswept grasses, stand the unassuming brick and concrete remains of a wartime secret. These structures, captured in striking black and white on a clear summer's day in June 2015, are the remnants of an "Operation Starfish" decoy site, a ingenious and desperate measure to divert the devastating bombs of the German Luftwaffe during the dark days of the Blitz.

The year is 1940. British cities were enduring relentless aerial bombardment, with the almost complete destruction of Coventry in November serving as a stark and horrifying example of the enemy's destructive power. In response to this escalating threat, engineer and retired Air Ministry officer Colonel John Turner was tasked with expanding his existing "K" and "Q" sites. These earlier decoys were designed to mimic factories and airfields, but the scale of the destruction demanded a new approach. Turner's expanded vision led to the creation of "SF" sites – "SF" standing for "special fire" – intended to replicate the fiery glow of nearby major cities under attack. While initially designated "SF," a site near Bristol was given the evocative codename "Starfish," and this name ultimately stuck for all subsequent sites.

One such vital "Starfish" site was strategically established on the Sowerby moors. Its purpose was audacious: to act as a decoy for the industrial powerhouses of Leeds and Manchester, as well as the crucial railway goods yards at Greetland and major railway junctions at Todmorden, Halifax, and Rochdale. The hope was that enemy bombers, drawn by the deceptive fires, would unleash their deadly payloads upon the empty moorland instead of their intended targets.

The construction of these sites was remarkably clever. During daylight hours, they were designed to blend seamlessly into the landscape, often disguised to resemble innocent farm buildings. However, their true function lay hidden beneath the vegetation. The surrounding area was crisscrossed with metal troughs, concealed from above, connected to tanks filled with oil and water. These troughs were also primed with creosote and coal. When an air raid was anticipated, a carefully orchestrated pyrotechnic display would begin. Approximately 15 minutes after the initial ignition of the combustibles, water would be released into the hot pans, creating a spectacular burst of flame and a loud explosion. This dramatic effect was specifically designed to confuse enemy bombers, leading them to believe they had successfully hit a populated, burning urban area.

The heart of this deception lay within the site's control bunker. As seen in the photographs, the bunker was a two-room control area, accessed by a short passage. Crucially, this entrance was protected by a substantial blast wall, a testament to the dangers faced by the personnel operating these decoys. Despite over 70 years having passed since these images were captured in 2015, the bunker and its accompanying blast wall remain in remarkably good condition, a durable brick and concrete monument to a forgotten aspect of wartime defence. The interior shots reveal the stark, empty rooms, littered with debris but still recognisably a former operational space.

Today, there is little else surrounding these structures to hint at their significant historical role. The expansive moorland stretches out, seemingly undisturbed, making the discovery of these remains even more poignant. They stand as a silent, rugged tribute to the ingenuity and resilience of those who worked tirelessly to protect Britain's cities during one of its darkest hours. The Sowerby Starfish site is a tangible link to a hidden chapter of the Second World War, where fire and deception played a crucial role in safeguarding lives and industry.

All photographs were taken on 16 June 2015 using a Polaroid IS2132 bridge camera, clicking any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

Inside the right side control room.

The left side control room.

Taken stood atop the bunker looking in the direction of Lancashire.
The blast wall was in excellent condition.

The only entrance / exit to the bunker. I imagine it could have
got quite claustrophobic inside.

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