Early Morning Sunrise in Zeebrugge.

These photos capture a moment etched in my memory: the November dawn breaking over the port of Zeebrugge, Belgium. Our ship was just arriving, a prelude to a magical trip to Bruges. That sunrise, a burst of color against the industrial harbour, felt like a promise of the beauty to come. It's funny how the start of a day can amplify the wonder of a place, and Bruges certainly lived up to that promise

 

The pictures were taken using a Polaroid IS2132 bridge camera on November 2, 2015. Clicking any image should open a link in another window to my Colin Green photography store on Zazzle.

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Canal Wharf Saw Mills: A Story of Industry, Fire, and Redevelopment

Canal Wharf Saw Mills, built in 1851, occupied a prominent location in Hebden Royd, West Yorkshire, nestled between Mytholmroyd and Hebden Bridge. Its position alongside the A646 Burnley Road, the Rochdale Canal, and the River Calder proved both advantageous and detrimental. While the waterways facilitated transportation during its industrial heyday, they also subjected the mill to repeated flooding, ultimately contributing to its decline.

Originally a working sawmill, the site later became home to the renowned Walkley Clogs. Tragedy struck in 1990 when an arson attack caused significant fire damage. The mill was subsequently refurbished and transformed into a popular tourist attraction, featuring a clog-making visitor center and various craft shops. However, the influx of visitors created traffic congestion, and despite several attempts, planning applications for necessary road improvements were repeatedly rejected. This ultimately led to the closure of the tourist attraction in the late 1990s.

The mill then sat vacant, a target for various redevelopment proposals, primarily for apartments. Each application, however, was denied due to concerns about flooding, access, and inadequate parking. The final blow came in 2019 when another devastating fire ravaged the already dilapidated structure, leading to its demolition shortly thereafter.

For nearly two years, the cleared site remained empty. Recently, however, planning permission has been granted for the construction of residential housing, marking a new chapter in the history of this once-bustling industrial location.

These photographs, captured on November 24, 2013, with a Samsung Galaxy Tablet, document the mill in its abandoned state before the final fire and demolition. Clicking any image should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

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 The following 3 pictures belong to a friend of mine who viewed the mill in 2015/16.

Majestic Ribblehead Viaduct: A Feat of Victorian Engineering

The Ribblehead Viaduct, a magnificent testament to Victorian engineering, has captivated visitors for generations. My own visit in April 2015, armed with my trusty Polaroid IS2132 digital bridge camera, only deepened my appreciation for this iconic structure. Having long desired to see it in person, I seized the opportunity while exploring nearby Kirkby Lonsdale.

Also known as Batty Moss Viaduct, this impressive structure stretches across the valley approximately 13 miles north of Settle and 73 miles south of Carlisle, carrying the renowned Settle-Carlisle Railway. Its presence is a powerful reminder of the ambition and hardship that characterized the railway's construction.

Getting there is part of the experience. The Ribblehead Railway Station sits adjacent to the viaduct, offering a scenic train journey of about 1 hour and 20 minutes from Leeds. For those driving, the B6255 road, connecting Hawes and Ingleton, passes right by.

Designed by the skilled engineer John Sydney Crossley, the viaduct's construction was a monumental undertaking. The first stone was laid on October 12, 1870, and the last in 1874. Imagine the scene: a thousand "navvies" toiling tirelessly, establishing temporary shanty towns on the moors for themselves and their families. These settlements, bearing names inspired by Crimean War victories, affluent London districts, and biblical figures, paint a vivid picture of the era. However, this ambitious project came at a cost. Smallpox epidemics and industrial accidents claimed the lives of approximately one hundred workers during construction, a stark reminder of the dangers they faced. The graveyard at Chapel-le-Dale holds around 200 burials from this period, a poignant testament to their sacrifice, and the church there houses a memorial to these railway workers.

The line over the viaduct first opened to goods traffic on August 3, 1875, but passenger trains didn't begin running until May 1, 1876, following an inspection and approval by Colonel F. H. Rich of the Board of Trade. Even in later years, the viaduct has seen its share of drama. In 1964, several brand new Humber cars were infamously blown off their freight train carriages while crossing the viaduct.

The sheer scale of the Ribblehead Viaduct is breathtaking. It spans 440 yards (400 m) in length and towers 104 feet (32 m) above the valley floor at its highest point. Comprising twenty-four arches, each with a 45-foot (14 m) span, and foundations reaching 25 feet (7.6 m) deep, the viaduct is a masterpiece of structural engineering. The ingenious design incorporates thicker piers every sixth arch, providing a crucial safeguard against potential collapse. A subtle gradient of 1:100 exists along the viaduct, with the north end sitting 13 feet (4.0 m) higher than the south. The construction consumed a staggering 1.5 million bricks, with some limestone blocks weighing a hefty 8 tonnes each.

As the longest viaduct on the Settle-Carlisle Railway, Ribblehead Viaduct holds a prominent place in railway history. Ribblehead railway station lies less than half a mile to the south, while the Blea Moor Tunnel, the line's longest tunnel, lies to the north. The viaduct stands near the foot of Whernside, adding to the stunning natural beauty of the area.

The Settle-Carlisle Line itself is a vital artery, one of three major north-south routes in Britain. Its survival is a testament to public passion. In the 1980s, British Rail attempted to close the line, citing safety concerns and the high cost of repairs. The viaduct, they claimed, was unsafe. A partial solution, implemented in 1985, involved singling the line across the viaduct and imposing a 30 mph speed limit. However, the closure proposals sparked widespread protests, ultimately leading to their retraction. The viaduct, along with the rest of the line, was repaired and maintained, ensuring its continued operation.

While Ribblehead is the longest, other impressive viaducts grace the Settle-Carlisle line, including the taller Smardale Viaduct (131 feet/40 m) and Arten Gill Viaduct (117 feet/36 m).

Today, the Ribblehead Viaduct continues to play a vital role. In 2016, it carried seven passenger trains from Leeds to Carlisle daily in each direction, alongside special long-distance excursions, often hauled by magnificent steam locomotives. Regular freight trains also utilize the route, relieving congestion on the West Coast Main Line. Keep an eye out for the Colas Rail timber train, a Friday afternoon fixture, often pulled by powerful Class 56 locomotives, and the limestone aggregate train from Arcow quarry, which requires a fascinating reversal maneuver at Blea Moor signal box. These regular workings, along with the stunning scenery, make a visit to the Ribblehead Viaduct a truly memorable experience.

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Ingleborough Peak, the 2nd highest mountain in Yorkshire can be seen in the distance. I climbed the steep embankment to take this picture.

Although it may look different this picture was taken without accessing the track area. I lent across the fence having checked no trains were due. 

This picture was taken in August 1976, it shows the viaduct still crossed by 2 lines, it was singled in the 1980's, when once again it was being targeted for closure.

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Journey Through Cumbria and Scotland: A Dashcam Time-Lapse

Experience the beauty of one of the UK's most scenic motorway stretches in this captivating time-lapse video! Filmed from my dashcam, this journey takes you on a 75-mile trip through stunning landscapes, from the edge of the Lake District to the Scottish border.

Our adventure begins near Burton in Kendal Services, just inside Cumbria, as we cross over from Lancashire. From there, we travel north on the motorway, offering glimpses of rolling hills and majestic mountains, even under less-than-ideal weather conditions. Keep an eye out for the dramatic climb to Shap Summit and the exhilarating descent that follows! The anticipation builds as we approach and cross the Scottish border, marking a transition into new territory.

This time-lapse condenses approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes of driving into a fast-paced 8-minute journey. The original footage was captured on Monday, October 16, 2017, using a Vivitar DVR 783HD waterproof action cam.

These dash cam and scenic view videos are a new venture for me, a way to explore different aspects of visual storytelling beyond still photography. I hope you find them interesting. In this video, the camera is fixed facing north, but future uploads will feature angled shots showcasing more of the surrounding scenery.

Exploring Scammonden from the Bridge

During a recent trip near Scammonden, I took the opportunity to film the area from the bridge that crosses the M62. This bridge, a fascinating landmark in its own right, goes by several names: Scammonden Bridge, a name that recalls the village submerged during the construction of the motorway and dam; Rainbow Bridge, perhaps inspired by the views it affords; and Brown Cow Bridge, a local moniker referencing a now-closed inn.

The bridge carries the B6114 road over the M62, which at this point sits at over 310 metres above sea level. The exposed location makes it susceptible to strong winds, a factor that once led the now-closed local school to provide a taxi service for children crossing the bridge during particularly blustery weather. Beneath the bridge, the M62, a vital artery connecting Liverpool and Hull, stretches across the north of England. Just west of the bridge lies the highest point on any motorway in England.

My videos offer eight distinct views of the surrounding area, including Stott Hall Farm, the impressive overflow of Booth Wood Reservoir, the substantial Scammonden Dam, and the panoramic natural beauty of the landscape. One of the videos is presented as a timelapse to offer a condensed viewing experience. Both videos are complemented by the evocative sounds of Kevin MacLeod's "Digya."

The second film is over 20 minutes long. It is the same film, but at normal speed, with 8 clips lasting no more than 3 minutes each. I have not replaced the soundtrack to give some idea of how windy it was with the wind noise and shaky camera, which was at the time on a tripod.

The Silent Witness: St. Paul's Spire and the Stories it Holds

Standing tall against the sky, a lone spire points heavenward, a silent sentinel of a bygone era. This is all that remains of St. Paul's Church, a once magnificent structure that graced the landscape for over half a century. Opened in 1847 at a cost of a million pounds – a truly staggering sum in those days – the church served its community until 1912, before finally being demolished in 1931.

Today, only the Grade II listed spire remains, a poignant reminder of the grand church that once stood in its place. It stands proudly within the former burial grounds, now transformed into a peaceful rest garden. Imagine the stories this spire could tell, the generations it has witnessed come and go.

What makes this site even more intriguing is the history of its burials. While the headstones have been removed and repositioned, I understand that the bodies remain undisturbed beneath the tranquil surface of the garden. Burials continued here until as recently as 1969, a testament to the long and varied history of this place.

It's a fascinating thought, to wander through this serene space, knowing that beneath your feet lie the remains of those who lived and worshipped in the shadow of St. Paul's. The removal of the headstones, while perhaps necessary for creating a public space, adds an air of mystery. Who were these people? What were their lives like? The spire stands as a silent witness, guarding their secrets and connecting us to the past.

Next time you find yourself in the area, take a moment to visit St. Paul's Spire. Walk through the rest garden, breathe in the fresh air, and consider the lives lived and the stories whispered by the stones beneath your feet. It's a place where history and tranquility intertwine, a reminder that even in the quietest of spaces, stories can still be told. 

The pictures were taken using a Samsung Galaxy Tablet on November 12, 2013. Clicking any image should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

The interior of the spire, not often seen but the opportunity was taken that day. 

The following information was taken from Wikipedia on their page about King Cross.

 

A commissioner's church, St. Paul's, designed by Robert Chantrell in 1845, was built in 1847 with seating for 450 people.

By the end of the 19th century, with a population of some 17,000 people, the older church of St. Paul's, built in 1847, had eventually run out of space for burials. A decision was made in 1909 to build a new church designed by Sir Charles Nicholson, with seating for 1,000, nearby. Except for the tower, it was completed in 1912.

Following a fire in the old St. Pauls in 1930, during which the roof was destroyed, the building was demolished in 1931, leaving only the tower and spire standing. With the increased space, burials continued in the graveyard until 1969. With some 1,737 graves in the graveyard, the church asked the local council to take over the maintenance of the grounds. The area was eventually designated as a'rest garden' in 1973, though with some considerable controversy.

 

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The Audacious Vision of George Tennant: A Canal Through Adversity

While exploring the Neath Abbey Business Park area, I stumbled upon a section of the Tennant Canal, a waterway steeped in history and a testament to one man's unwavering vision. Intrigued, I delved into the story of this remarkable feat of engineering, and what I discovered was truly inspiring.

George Tennant, a Lancashire solicitor's son, wasn't a canal builder by trade. Yet, in 1816, after purchasing the Rhydings estate, he took on the challenge of revitalizing the disused Glan-y-wern Canal. Tennant's ambition wasn't just to reopen the canal; he envisioned a significantly enlarged and extended waterway, capable of accommodating larger barges and connecting the River Neath to the River Tawe near Swansea harbour. He saw the potential for this canal to spur development in the region, believing Swansea's docks offered a superior shipping point compared to Neath or Giant's Grave.

Undeterred by a lack of support from local landowners, Tennant bravely funded the entire project himself. He leased the Glan-y-wern Canal from the Earl of Jersey and, under the guidance of engineer William Kirkhouse, work commenced in 1817. By autumn 1818, the canal stretched from Swansea to the River Neath, exceeding its initial design and accommodating even larger barges than planned. The Glan-y-wern branch was also reopened, providing a vital coal supply.

But Tennant's vision didn't stop there. He aimed to connect with the Neath Canal, a challenging endeavor that involved navigating complex terrain, including the treacherous Crymlyn Bog. This phase of the project was fraught with difficulties, including quicksand and legal battles with landowners like L.W. Dillwyn. Tennant's persistence, however, eventually prevailed. He secured agreements with the Neath Canal and, after overcoming significant engineering hurdles, including constructing an impressive ten-arched aqueduct across the River Neath, the expanded canal finally opened in 1824.

The Tennant Canal, initially known as the Neath and Swansea Junction Canal, eventually reached a length of 8.5 miles. Tennant even developed the area around the Swansea terminus, naming it Port Tennant. While the canal did boost the local economy and carried substantial amounts of coal, timber, and other goods, it didn't initially generate the profits Tennant had hoped for. Nevertheless, his legacy lived on, with the canal playing a crucial role in the region's industrial development for many years.

The story of George Tennant is a powerful reminder that vision, determination, and a willingness to overcome obstacles can lead to extraordinary achievements. His canal, a testament to his audacious spirit, remains a fascinating piece of South Wales' industrial heritage. It's a reminder that sometimes, the most significant contributions are born from the passion and perseverance of individuals who dare to dream big, even when others doubt.

The pictures were taken in September 2017 with a Nikon D3300 Camera. Clicking any image should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

Thanks for looking, and please take a moment to share and follow me on social media and check out my portfolio on Photo4Me via the link below.

All the images remain the copyright of Colin Green.

Wakefield to Brigg: A Waltz Through Yorkshire and Beyond

Ever wondered what a drive from Wakefield to Brigg looks like? I recently had to make this journey for work, and instead of just driving it, I decided to film it. Then, for a bit of fun, I compressed the 70-minute truck journey into a snappy 6 minutes 40 seconds and set it to the delightful "Waltz of the Flowers" by Tchaikovsky. The result? A surprisingly charming little road movie!

Now, let's be honest, with a forward-facing camera, the scenery wasn't exactly breathtaking. Think of it less as a visual feast and more of a time-lapse travelogue. But even so, there are a few landmarks worth pointing out along the way:

• 0:03: We begin at the newly redeveloped Kirkgate A61 roundabout in Wakefield, a glimpse of the city's changing face.
• 0:59: Hit the M62! The open road beckons.
• 1:35: A fleeting view of the mighty Ferrybridge Power Station.
• 3:15: Cruising onto the M18.
• 4:05: The M180 takes us further north.
• 6:08: Almost there! The A18 junction signals our approach to Brigg.

The journey starts by navigating the recently revamped Kirkgate A61 roundabout in Wakefield, then winds past Pinderfields and through Stanley before joining the M62 at junction 30. The M62 section included some roadworks (aren't there always?), but after junction 32, it was smooth sailing through the heart of Yorkshire and into North Lincolnshire, finally arriving in Brigg.

While the scenery might be understated, the combination of the sped-up footage and Tchaikovsky's whimsical score creates a surprisingly engaging experience. It's a fun, quirky way to experience a familiar route and appreciate the sheer scale of the landscape we traverse. Check it out – you might just find yourself humming along!

Celebrating Heritage: The Sowerby Bridge Rushbearing

Get ready to experience a slice of living history! Every first weekend in September, Sowerby Bridge, West Yorkshire, comes alive with the vibrant spectacle of the Rushbearing Festival. This isn't just any parade – it's a revival of an ancient tradition, a joyful celebration that echoes back to the Middle Ages.

Imagine a time when earthen floors were the norm, and rushes, readily available, provided warmth and cleanliness. These rushes, gathered with care, were brought to the parish church in a festive procession – a practice known as Rushbearing. While this custom, once widespread across Britain, faded with the advent of stone floors, Sowerby Bridge proudly rekindled the flame in 1977.

This year marks a fantastic milestone: 40 years of continuous celebration! Picture this: the streets buzzing with excitement, a kaleidoscope of colours, the infectious rhythm of bands, and the captivating swirl of Morris dancers. The festivities kick off on Friday evening, a warm-up act in a local pub before the main event.

Saturday morning dawns with the parade setting off from Warley St. John's Church. The procession snakes its way down the valley to Sowerby Bridge, pausing at friendly pubs along the route. Here, the music swells, the Morris dancers leap and twirl, and the atmosphere crackles with energy. The parade also makes its respects at Christ Church and St. Paul's Church in the town. The day culminates in a lively gathering at a local pub, the perfect end to a day of revelry.

But the fun doesn't stop there! Sunday sees a more reflective start with a church service at St. Peter's Church, Sowerby. From there, the procession continues its journey through the picturesque villages of Cottonstones and Triangle, culminating in a final song of praise at St. Bartholomew's Church, Ripponden. The Rushbearing Festival in Sowerby Bridge isn't just a parade; it's a vibrant tapestry of history, community, and sheer joyful celebration – an experience you won't soon forget!

For more information please take a moment to view the website of the Rushbearing at,

http://www.rushbearing.com/

The video can be viewed below or on YouTube. Sadly,  due to the really poor sound quality, I have had to change the background music. This does not, in my opinion, take away from the parade going past. The music I have overlaid is the Ceremonial Medley by the United States Marine Band.

Across the Pennines: A Time-lapse Drive on the M62

Ever wondered what it's like to drive across the highest stretch of motorway in Britain? This time-lapse film offers a unique perspective on the M62, specifically the challenging section between West Yorkshire and Greater Manchester. Filmed on September 1st, 2017, the journey begins at Ainley Top and climbs to the dizzying heights of Rishworth Moor, reaching 1221 feet (372 metres) above sea level near junction 22. This monumental feat of engineering, completed in 1970 after years of planning and construction, traverses some of the most unforgiving terrain in the UK. Notice how the clear skies at the start of the film quickly give way to a thick blanket of fog as we approach Saddleworth. This dramatic weather shift highlights the very conditions that plagued the construction of this section of the M62, making it one of the most complex and costly stretches of motorway ever built. The accompanying music, "Cylinder Seven" by Chris Zabriskie, adds an atmospheric layer to this fascinating glimpse into the challenges of building on the "roof of England."

The video was doubled in speed as I was driving a truck, and whilst it may look dangerously close at some points to the Abbey trailer, I wasn't, and at that point he was really struggling for power as we were barely doing 40mph and I couldn't get out to pass.

 

A few notable points of scenery, blink and you'll miss some to look out for, and the time in view,

 

Outlane Junction 23 slip road and Outlane Golf Club 1:30

Scammonden (Rainbow) Bridge 2:42

Scammonden Reservoir and Water Tower 3:01

Rishworth Moor, 3:38

Stott Hall Farm is barely visible to the right of the picture (3:46).

The fog comes into view and reduces the long-range visibility (4:37).

Junction 22 Saddleworth 5:58

Highest Motorway in England, Sign 6:08

M62 Pennine Way Bridge, 6:18

Rakewood Viaduct (Windy Hill) 7:38

A Journey Through Britain: Featuring Drives in Jedburgh, Elland, Dartford Tunnels, Woolwich Ferry and the M6 Past Lancaster Services and the Pennine Tower

My photography, YouTube channel, and blog are passion projects, a creative outlet alongside my full-time career as an HGV driver traversing the UK's roads. I often find myself passing places I'd love to photograph, but time constraints frequently prevent me from stopping. So, I occasionally capture these fleeting glimpses of the landscape and share them in video form.

These short films, set to music (a definite improvement over the rumble of my truck's engine!), offer a driver's-eye view of Britain. The first video, filmed on October 29th, 2013, takes us across the Dartford Crossing, northbound, back in the days of toll booths. We journey through the eastern tunnel, emerging on the Essex side of the Thames. The footage has been sped up twofold for a more dynamic viewing experience.

Our second journey takes us to the stark beauty of the Anglo-Scottish border, specifically the Carter Bar crossing on the A68. This historic route, often shrouded in mist and steeped in tales of reivers and border skirmishes, marks the boundary between Northumbria and the Scottish Borders. This sped-up footage captures the transition as we cross this invisible line, showcasing the dramatic landscape as it unfolds. Consider the historical significance of this route – for centuries, it was a volatile frontier, a place of conflict and cultural exchange. Even today, the Carter Bar retains a certain mystique, a reminder of the often-turbulent relationship between these two nations. As we "drive" across the border, observe the changing terrain, the rolling hills and sweeping vistas that characterize this unique region. The A68 itself is a road that winds its way through history, connecting communities and offering stunning views for those who travel its length. This short video provides a glimpse of that journey, a fleeting moment captured on film, inviting you to imagine the stories whispered by the wind as it sweeps across the Carter Bar.

Our third journey delves into the heart of the Scottish Borders, taking us on a rapid tour through the historic town of Jedburgh. This time-lapse footage, sped up to compress the experience, offers a fleeting glimpse into the town's rich past and architectural heritage. Keep an eye out for the magnificent ruins of Jedburgh Abbey, a powerful symbol of the town's medieval importance. Founded in the 12th century, the abbey stands as a testament to the power and influence of the church in this region. Imagine the sounds of monastic life echoing through its now-silent walls, the chanting of monks, and the bustling activity of a thriving medieval community. Even in its ruined state, the abbey evokes a sense of awe and wonder, a window into a bygone era. As we "drive" through Jedburgh, observe the town's charming architecture, a mix of traditional stone buildings and more modern structures, reflecting its long and varied history. Jedburgh has witnessed countless historical events, from border raids and sieges to periods of peace and prosperity. This short film offers a tantalizing taste of Jedburgh's character, encouraging you to explore its streets and uncover its stories at a more leisurely pace.

Our fourth journey takes us to the banks of the River Thames, where we experience a crossing aboard the Woolwich Ferry. This historic ferry service, a vital link between the south and north banks of the river, has been connecting communities for centuries. This sped-up footage captures the unique perspective offered by this river crossing. Observe the bustling activity as vehicles and pedestrians embark and disembark, the constant flow of traffic that relies on this vital artery. Consider the history of the Woolwich Ferry, its role in facilitating trade and travel across the Thames, and its enduring importance to the local communities. As the ferry glides across the water, take in the sights and sounds of the river – the lapping of the water against the hull, the cries of gulls overhead, and the distant hum of the city. The Thames itself is a living entity, a river that has shaped London's destiny and continues to play a central role in its life. This short, sped-up film offers a unique vantage point, a fleeting glimpse of the Woolwich Ferry in action, a reminder of the many ways in which we connect and cross the waterways that shape our world. It's a journey across time and water, a small but significant part of the larger tapestry of London's transportation network.

The next clip takes us to a familiar landmark for anyone who has driven the M6 – the iconic Pennine Tower at Lancaster Services. This futuristic, hexagonal structure, towering 90 feet above the motorway, was once a high-end restaurant, offering diners stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Built in the 1960s, it was a symbol of the optimism and ambition of the motorway age.

While the restaurant is now closed, the Pennine Tower remains a striking and recognizable feature of the Lancaster Services. It serves as a reminder of a bygone era of motorway travel, when service stations were more than just places to refuel and grab a bite to eat. They were destinations in their own right, offering a touch of luxury and excitement to the long-distance journey.

As we drive past the Lancaster Services, we can't help but wonder about the stories that the Pennine Tower could tell. It has witnessed countless journeys, from family road trips to cross-country hauls. It has seen the best and worst of British weather, from sunny days to torrential rain. And it has stood as a silent sentinel, watching over the flow of traffic on the M6 for over 50 years.

This short clip is a tribute to the Pennine Tower, a reminder of the importance of roadside landmarks and the stories they tell. It is also a reminder of the changing face of motorway travel, as we move from an era of grand service stations to a more streamlined and efficient model.

In the final clip, we journey through the stillness of Elland town centre in the early morning, the camera capturing the town's awakening as the first rays of sunlight touch its historic buildings.

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Trains at Walsden and the Summit Tunnel.

A glorious Sunday afternoon beckoned, and with a few free hours, the Calder Valley called. A quick hop on the train whisked me to Walsden, my starting point for a leisurely stroll back along the historic Rochdale Canal to Todmorden. Camera in hand, I was eager to capture the picturesque scenery. My first stop: the eastern portal of the legendary Summit Tunnel, a feat of Victorian engineering. Intrigued by the prospect, I decided to try and film a train's passage through this iconic structure. Fortune smiled upon me; it wasn't long before an eastbound train thundered past, offering a fleeting glimpse into the tunnel's depths.

Sadly I was not aware of the distraction of the weeds in front of the camera at the time but I don't think they remove much of the feel of the video.

A testament to Victorian ingenuity, the Summit Tunnel stands as one of England's oldest railway tunnels. Completed between 1837 and 1841, this engineering marvel once claimed the title of the world's longest tunnel, stretching an impressive 1.6 miles. However, its history is not without incident. In 1984, a devastating fire ripped through the tunnel when a petrol train derailed and burst into flames, forcing an eight-month closure and highlighting the inherent dangers of such subterranean passages.

 

I also, before walking up, took a short time to film trains in operation at Walsden station, including a westbound train running straight through. An eastbound train was filmed from the iron bridge (the only remaining part of the original station closed in 1961 with the current station reopening in 1990), and another westbound train slowing on approach to platform 1 was filmed from platform 2 as it arrived.

The following video was filmed on November 14, 2014, using my handheld tablet. I was just beginning to take an interest in photography and filmed a short clip of a pacer train passing on its way into the mouth of the Summit Tunnel.

Narrowboats, Waterfalls and Leaky Lock Gates at Walsden, West Yorkshire

Narrowboats gently bob, their painted hulls reflecting the sky. Waterfalls cascade down mossy rocks, a refreshing counterpoint to the still canal. And then there are the lock gates – leaky, perhaps, but adding a certain charm to the scene. Walsden, West Yorkshire, offers a delightful blend of industrial heritage and natural beauty, perfect for a peaceful canal-side stroll.

The first video was taken from bridge number 32 Copperas Bridge which carries the A6033 Rochdale Road across the canal. It shows a narrowboat sailing along the canal westward away from Gauxholme Railway Bridge.

The second short clip was taken showing a waterfall flowing nearby at the end of Farnboro Street alongside the Rochdale Canal. I just kind of found it relaxing watching the water cascading over the edge.

And the 3rd video shows lock 31 on the Rochdale Canal also known as Lightbank Lock. I  just found something very relaxing about flow of water through the side and bottom of the gate.

A Journey Through Time: Exploring the Lost Rishworth Branch Line

The Ryburn Valley, a picturesque stretch of West Yorkshire, whispers tales of a bygone era, a time when the rhythmic chug of steam trains echoed through its hills. This is the story of the Rishworth Branch Line, a railway that briefly connected the valley to the wider world, leaving behind a legacy of intriguing remnants for the modern explorer.

Conceived in the ambitious railway boom of the mid-19th century, the Rishworth Branch Line was initially proposed in 1865. However, it wasn't until 1873 that construction finally began. The first section, stretching from Sowerby Bridge to Ripponden, opened its doors to passengers in 1878, a testament to the Victorian engineering prowess of the time. The line was finally completed to Rishworth in 1881, promising to bring prosperity and connectivity to this rural community.

The initial vision for the line was far grander. Ambitious plans included tunnelling through the imposing moorland to connect with the main line at Rochdale. This would have created a significant through route. However, the challenging terrain and persistent problems with landslides and other geological issues meant this ambitious connection never materialized. The Rishworth Branch Line remained a quiet branch, nestled within the Ryburn Valley.

Despite its relatively short lifespan, the line played a vital role in the local economy, transporting goods and passengers and connecting communities. However, the same challenges that plagued its construction ultimately contributed to its demise. Problems with the surrounding land, likely including landslips and subsidence, led to the closure of the section between Ripponden and Rishworth in March 1952. The final nail in the coffin came in September 1958, when the entire line was closed, marking the end of an era for the Ryburn Valley.

Today, the Rishworth Branch Line exists largely in memory, a ghost of its former self. Yet, for those willing to seek them out, remnants of this railway adventure remain. Several of the sturdy bridge crossings still span the valley, silent witnesses to the trains that once thundered across them. The most impressive relic is perhaps the Scar Head Tunnel, a dark and mysterious portal into the past.

And at Rishworth, the station platform still stands, a poignant reminder of the bustling hub it once was. Though now largely hidden by encroaching undergrowth and inaccessible due to being on private land, the platform waits patiently, a silent sentinel dreaming of the trains that will never arrive. It's a powerful image, a testament to the fleeting nature of progress and the enduring charm of forgotten railways.

The Rishworth Branch Line may be gone, but its story continues to fascinate. It's a story of ambition, engineering challenges, and the changing landscape of transportation. It's a story etched into the very fabric of the Ryburn Valley, waiting to be rediscovered by those who dare to look. So, next time you find yourself in the area, take a moment to imagine the sights and sounds of the Rishworth Branch Line, a lost railway that still whispers its secrets to the wind.

The majority of these pictures featured in this slideshow were taken using my Nikon D3300 camera on April 29, 2016.

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