Sunday, 17 February 2019

Scenic Drive Through Ryburn Valley: Scammonden to Sowerby Bridge Pt 3, Pt 4 and Pt 5.

Ever wonder what the winding roads of the Ryburn Valley look like from the driver's seat? I recently took a beautiful walk around the lake beside the M62 and decided to capture the return journey, transforming it into a five-part video series. It was a perfect opportunity to showcase the stunning landscapes and charming villages we passed through.

This video series takes you on a journey from Scammonden all the way to Sowerby Bridge, tracing the Ryburn Valley and passing through picturesque spots like Barkisland, Rishworth, Ripponden, Triangle, and Kebroyd. Each clip is set to music, making for a relaxing and visually engaging experience.

Part 3 features 2.1 miles from the western edge of Rishworth to the centre of Ripponden, West Yorkshire and last's for 4min 27secs.


Part 4 is the 1.5 miles stretch from Ripponden to the western edge of Triangle and is 3min 2 sec long.


The final part 5 covers the 1.9 miles from Triangle to Wakefield Road, Sowerby Bridge and last for 4min 18secs taking in the centres of Triangle and Sowerby Bridge.


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Scenic Drive Through Ryburn Valley: Scammonden to Sowerby Bridge Pt 1 and Pt 2.

Ever wonder what the winding roads of the Ryburn Valley look like from the driver's seat? I recently took a beautiful walk around the lake beside the M62 and decided to capture the return journey, transforming it into a five-part video series. It was a perfect opportunity to showcase the stunning landscapes and charming villages we passed through.

This video series takes you on a journey from Scammonden all the way to Sowerby Bridge, tracing the Ryburn Valley and passing through picturesque spots like Barkisland, Rishworth, Ripponden, Triangle, and Kebroyd. Each clip is set to music, making for a relaxing and visually engaging experience.

We're kicking things off with Part 1, a 4-minute and 7-second clip. This segment covers the initial 1.1-mile stretch from Scammonden to Withens End Lane in Barkisland. Get ready to see the early views of this scenic drive!


Part 2 takes in the 1.2 mile stretch of road from Withens End Lane to the edge of Rishworth, climbing down the valley and underneath the dam head of Booth Wood Reservoir. This clip last again for 4mins 7secs.



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A Glimpse into Calderdale's Past: Vintage Views

Ever wonder what your local area looked like decades ago? We've put together a fascinating video featuring 20 vintage images from at least 30 years ago, offering a unique peek into the history of Halifax and the wider Calderdale area of West Yorkshire.

This collection of photographs captures many notable landmarks and forgotten scenes that will surely spark some nostalgia. You'll see iconic spots like Wainhouse Terrace and the familiar grounds of The Shay Stadium. The video also includes a look at Thrum Hall Stadium, a place that holds many memories for local sports fans.

One particularly intriguing section features Lee Bank from a time after the Queensbury Railway had closed, but before the Lee Bank Tunnel and Viaducts were eventually removed. These images offer a rare chance to see these significant structures in their pre-demolition state.

Each picture in the video is clearly labelled with its place name, making it easy to identify these historical locations. It's a fantastic journey back in time, showcasing how much our towns and landscapes have evolved while still retaining their unique character.

So, if you're a local history buff or just curious about how things used to be, this video is definitely worth a watch!


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A Glimpse Through Time: Unearthing Old Halifax in a New YouTube Video

Have you ever wondered what daily life looked like in Halifax over a century ago? I'm excited to share a new YouTube video I've put together, a compilation of vintage images of Halifax from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These aren't just any old photos; they're a mix of postcards from my personal collection and digital copies I've gathered, all thoughtfully compiled into a dynamic slideshow. To the best of my knowledge, every picture featured is either in the public domain, copyright-free, or creatively commons commercially licensed, ensuring we can all enjoy these historical treasures without restriction. I simply felt these amazing images deserved to be seen rather than just stored away!

The video offers a fascinating journey through approximately 20 pictures taken right in the immediate Halifax area. You'll see people going about their everyday lives, historic sports teams, and iconic local landmarks like the magnificent Piece Hall, the imposing Town Hall, and the bustling Train Station. But perhaps one of the most unexpected inclusions is a picture of an elephant – an exhibit from the short-lived Halifax Zoo, which operated between 1909 and 1916. Interestingly, the site where this zoo once stood is now the home ground of Siddal ARLFC.


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Friday, 25 January 2019

Beneath the Hill: Sowerby Tunnel

Ever wondered about the hidden passages that connect our towns and landscapes? Just a short stretch along the Caldervale line, nestled between Sowerby Bridge and Luddendenfoot, lies one such fascinating piece of railway history: Sowerby Tunnel. This brief video I've put together offers a glimpse into its past and present, featuring both striking images and footage collected over the last six years.

Built way back in 1840 by the pioneering Manchester & Leeds Railway, this tunnel isn't just a conduit for trains; it's a transition point. Stretching for approximately 657 yards, its eastern portal emerges directly from the bustling, industrial landscape of Sowerby Bridge. Yet, as you journey through its dark embrace, you're transported to a different world, exiting its western portal into the greener, more open country setting that gives way to Sowerby, Tenterfields, and eventually Luddendenfoot.

Interestingly, Sowerby Tunnel goes by many names. Locals often call it Dixy Tunnel, but it's also known simply as Long Tunnel or, perhaps most fittingly, Cemetery Tunnel, given that it runs directly underneath Sowerby Bridge Cemetery and the picturesque Dixon Scar Woods.

One of the pictures featured in the video, taken near the tunnel's western portal, was captured from a unique vantage point directly on the track. I want to be absolutely clear: this was done with full permission, on a day when no trains were running, and with strict adherence to all health and safety regulations. It is incredibly dangerous and illegal to enter railway property where trains operate. Doing so can lead to severe injury or even death. Please, for your safety, never trespass on railway lines or property.

Join me in the video to explore this intriguing piece of our local railway heritage!



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