Savile Park, Halifax.

A small set of pictures taken early Yesterday morning whilst walking across Savile Park, Halifax. Savile Park is known locally by a few different names including The Moor, Skircoat Moor and Skircoat Common. The land was acquired by the Savile Family who asked that the land never be enclosed, since then the land has been used for the Halifax Agricultural show, Rugby League and Football, it is popular with runners and the local Grammar School Crossley Heath users the moor for sports. It was used in the World War II dig for victory campaign which saw the moor dug over to grow vegetables for the public. The moor has hosted the great Yorkshire Show on at least 4 occasions. 

It is bordered by Crossley Heath School to the west, Manor Heath Park to the east and features the Thorp Fountain on the north eastern corner.

The pictures were taken with a Nikon d3300 on the 20th October 2016, they can be seen below and un-watermarked on Clickasnap by clicking any image.

The Twin Towers of King Cross, to the right is Wainhouse Tower, and the clocktower to the left is part of the Crossley Heath School Building.

To the north east corner of Savile Park is the Thorp Fountain, the Grade II listed drinking fountain was given to the people of Halifax by Joseph Thorp and unveiled in July 1869, Thorp also donated a drinking fountain which can be found in the grounds of the nearby People's Park. The fountain which is no longer in use bears the inscription "Thank God for water - water is best" and was designed by Levi Gill a stone mason who was born in Pateley Bridge before moving to Halifax. The Fountains Grade II listed status was granted on the 23rd November 1973. The fountain can be seen below.

St Jude's Church can be seen in the background.

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All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.

Puzzle Hall Inn, Sowerby Bridge (November 2013)

A well known local landmark, the Puzzle Hall Inn a pub which open in the late 18th century and closed during the early 2010's. The pub brewed it's own beer during the latter part of the 18th century until it was taken over in 1935 by Ward's of Sheffield. There are currently plans to re-open the pub by a community group.

These pictures were taken on the 2nd November 2013 using a Samsung Galaxy. they can be seen below or un-watermarked on Clickasnap.

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All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.

A Spire of History: The Haunting Beauty of Halifax's Square Church

Halifax, a town steeped in industrial history, holds a silent sentinel against its skyline: the Square Church Spire. A lone finger pointing towards the heavens, it's a striking reminder of a grander structure, a story etched in stone and fire.

Imagine, if you will, the bustling Square in 1857. Amidst the clatter of horse-drawn carriages and the rhythmic hum of nearby mills, a new beacon of faith rose. The Square Congregational Church, opened on July 15th, a testament to Victorian ambition and religious fervor. This magnificent edifice stood proudly beside the iconic Piece Hall, a symbol of Halifax's prosperity. It replaced the older Georgian Square Chapel, which, in a charming twist of fate, became the church's Sunday school, a passing of the torch from one generation to the next.

For over a century, the Square Church echoed with hymns, sermons, and the quiet prayers of its congregation. It was a place of community, of solace, and of spiritual guidance. But time, as it inevitably does, brought change. The church's doors closed in 1970, marking the end of an era.

Then, tragedy struck. In January 1971, a devastating fire ripped through the main building, leaving behind a charred skeleton. The once proud structure was reduced to rubble, and in 1976, the final act of demolition was carried out. All that remained was the magnificent, Grade II listed spire, soaring 235 feet into the sky.

This solitary spire, a relic of a lost grandeur, now stands as a poignant reminder of what once was. It's a striking juxtaposition against the modern architecture of the Halifax Central Library, into which it is now incorporated. Standing at its base, you can almost hear the echoes of the past, the faint strains of an organ, the murmur of prayers.

The Square Church Spire is more than just a historical landmark; it's a symbol of resilience, a testament to the enduring power of memory. It's a place where the past and present collide, where the echoes of a bygone era mingle with the everyday sounds of a bustling town.

Next time you find yourself in Halifax, take a moment to gaze upon this architectural marvel. Let its silent story resonate with you, and remember the grand church that once stood beside it, a testament to the enduring spirit of Halifax. It's a reminder that even in the face of destruction, something beautiful and enduring can remain, reaching towards the sky like a whispered prayer.

The pictures below were taken on the 27th May 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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All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.

A Photographic Journey Through Brighouse Railway Station (August 2018)

August 2018. A simple date, a snapshot in time, captured by my trusty Nikon D3300. But within those digital frames lies a story, a whisper of history echoing through the platforms of Brighouse Railway Station. It's a story of change, resilience, and the enduring spirit of rail travel.

Brighouse Railway Station, seemingly just another stop on the line, holds a past far richer than its modern facade might suggest. Did you know it first opened its doors – or rather, its platforms – on the 5th of October 1840? Back then, it was known as "Brighouse and Bradford." A curious name, considering trains couldn't even reach Bradford directly until 1854 when the Halifax line was completed! It also bore the moniker "Brighouse for Rastrick," hinting at its role as a key transport hub for the surrounding areas.

Imagine the scenes: the billowing steam, the rhythmic chugging of locomotives, the bustle of Victorian passengers. It's a stark contrast to the sleek, modern trains that glide through today. However, progress, as it often does, brought change. The original station, a relic of a bygone era, was sadly closed on the 3rd of January 1970. A final, poignant farewell as the 6:53 PM London King's Cross to Bradford service passed through, marking its demise.

And then, silence. The station, a vital artery of the town, was gone, demolished, its history seemingly erased. But the story doesn't end there. Like a phoenix from the ashes, Brighouse Railway Station was reborn, reopening on the 29th of May 2000, at its original location. A testament to the community's desire to reconnect with its past and embrace the future.

However, the tale of Brighouse isn't complete without a mention of its neighbour, Elland. Originally slated to reopen its own station alongside Brighouse, Elland's revival has been a saga of delays. The projected 2022 opening, with a £22 million price tag, highlights the challenges of modern infrastructure projects. "Only 22 years late," you can't help but chuckle, a wry nod to the famed (or infamous) efficiency of old British Rail. "We may be late, but we get there eventually," a sentiment that resonates with the slow, steady rhythm of railway progress.

These photographs, captured on a warm August day, are more than just images. They're a portal to the past, a reminder of the enduring legacy of rail travel. They speak of the generations who passed through these platforms, of the stories etched into the very fabric of the station.

So, the next time you find yourself at Brighouse Railway Station, take a moment to appreciate its history. Listen for the echoes of steam, imagine the bustling crowds, and remember the resilience of a community that brought its station back to life. And perhaps, spare a thought for Elland, patiently waiting for its turn to join the story.

Clicking any of the images below should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

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

All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.

A Pennine Gem: Discovering Christ Church, Denshaw

Sometimes, the most enchanting discoveries happen when you least expect them. That's exactly what occurred on a sunny June afternoon in 2016, as I journeyed back from Manchester Airport, weaving my way through the picturesque Pennine landscape. My original plan was to explore the tranquil beauty of Dowry Reservoir, but fate had other plans. As I drove along Huddersfield Road, a striking silhouette caught my eye: Christ Church, Denshaw.

Standing proudly near the heart of the village, Christ Church is a testament to Victorian architectural prowess. Built by Henry Gartside and opened in 1863, this Anglican parish church exudes a sense of timeless serenity. Its solid stone construction and elegant spire pierce the Pennine sky, a beacon of faith and history.

The church's grounds, too, hold a special significance. Just inside the entrance gate, the Denshaw War Memorial stands as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by the village's sons. The juxtaposition of the peaceful church and the solemn memorial creates a powerful atmosphere, inviting reflection and remembrance.

It's no surprise that Christ Church was granted Grade II listed status on June 19th, 1967, a recognition of its architectural and historical importance. The intricate details of its exterior, the well-maintained grounds, and the sense of history that permeates the air all contribute to its unique charm.

The photographs I captured on that serendipitous day, June 25th, 2016, offer a glimpse into the beauty of Christ Church. From the majestic spire to the tranquil gardens, each image tells a story of a place where history and community intertwine.

I've included eight of those photos below, showcasing the exterior and grounds of this beautiful church. I hope you enjoy them as much as I enjoyed discovering this hidden gem.

Christ Church, Denshaw, is more than just a building; it's a living piece of history, a place of peace, and a reminder of the enduring beauty of the Pennine landscape. If you ever find yourself travelling through this part of the world, I highly recommend taking a moment to explore this enchanting church and its surroundings. You never know what hidden treasures you might discover.

Clicking any of the images below should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography on Zazzle.

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All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.

Hebden's Old Bridge (July 2018)

Sometimes, the best adventures are the unplanned ones. Recently, I found myself with a few spare moments in the charming town of Hebden Bridge. Camera in hand, I decided to revisit a familiar and beloved landmark: the ancient packhorse bridge that gracefully spans Hebden Water, right in the heart of town.

This isn't my first encounter with this picturesque bridge. I've shared images of it before, captured with the nostalgic charm of a Polaroid is2132 Bridge Camera and the digital versatility of a Samsung Galaxy Tablet, But this time, I was armed with my trusty Nikon D3300, ready to capture the bridge in a different light.

But this bridge isn't just a pretty face; it's a piece of history. Thought to date back to the early 16th century, it stands as a testament to the resilience and spirit of the local community. Imagine! It nearly fell victim to progress when the new turnpike was built in the 1770s, but thanks to the determined residents of Heptonstall, it was spared.

Over the centuries, the bridge has undergone numerous renovations, adapting to the changing times while retaining its historical charm. One of its most distinctive features is the jutting parapets, designed to create passing places due to its narrow width. It's a clever and practical design, a reminder of the bridge's original purpose as a vital crossing point for packhorses carrying goods.

And, of course, the bridge is where the town gets its name: Hebden Bridge. A fitting name for a town that proudly embraces its heritage while looking towards the future.

These few minutes spent capturing the essence of Hebden Bridge served as a gentle reminder of the beauty that can be found in the everyday. It's a reminder to slow down, appreciate the history that surrounds us, and capture those fleeting moments that make a place truly special. Whether it's through the nostalgic lens of a Polaroid or the crisp detail of a DSLR, every image tells a story. And the story of Hebden Bridge, with its ancient packhorse bridge at its heart, is one worth telling.

I took these pictures in July 2018, clicking any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

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

All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.

Echoes of Industry: Rust, Cobbles, and the Mystery of Siddal's Brickworks

April 2017. A crisp spring day, and I found myself perched above the village of Siddal, near Halifax, West Yorkshire, exploring the remnants of what I was told was Savile's Brickworks. The place had a haunting beauty, a silent testament to industrial might and the passage of time.

Armed with my trusty Nikon D3300 SLR, I captured the stark, weathered beauty of the brickworks. The textures were incredible – the rough, aged brick, the rusted metal, the tenacious weeds pushing through cracks in the concrete. Each shot seemed to tell a story, whispering of the workers who once toiled there, the roar of machinery, and the fiery kilns that once dominated the landscape.

But there was a mystery to the place. Was it truly abandoned? I'd heard conflicting stories. Some said a recycling centre operated there, breathing new life into the old site. Others insisted it was completely deserted, a ghost of its former self. As an HGV driver myself, I couldn’t help but shudder at the thought of navigating a 44-ton lorry up (or down!) the steep, cobbled slope leading to the yard. That alone seemed a daunting task, regardless of whether the place was active or not.

The photos, taken on April 9th, 2017, reveal a landscape of industrial decay, yet there's a strange allure to it. The sheer scale of the site, the echoes of its past, and the uncertainty of its present all contributed to a captivating experience. If you're interested in grabbing a print of these photos, clicking on any of the images will take you to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

There's something deeply fascinating about industrial ruins. They offer a tangible connection to the past, a glimpse into the lives and work of those who came before us. Savile's Brickworks, with its mix of decay and resilience, is a perfect example.

Whether it's a bustling recycling centre or a silent monument, the site continues to hold a certain magic. The cobbles, the bricks, the rust – they all whisper tales of a bygone era, leaving us to wonder about the stories they could tell.

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

All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.