The Duke of Lancaster: North Wales' Ghost Ship

There's something undeniably captivating about a ship stranded on land. It's a scene straight out of a maritime fantasy, a relic of the past frozen in time. And in the heart of North Wales, there's a perfect example of this: the Duke of Lancaster.

Once a proud passenger ferry, the Duke of Lancaster now rests on the banks of the River Dee, a silent sentinel on the Welsh coastline. Beached in 1979 with grand plans to become a floating leisure complex, the ship's destiny took a different course. Legal battles and financial woes halted the project, leaving the vessel abandoned and decaying.

Despite its forlorn state, the Duke of Lancaster has an undeniable allure. Its imposing silhouette against the Welsh sky is a striking image, and it has become a local landmark, drawing curious visitors and photographers alike. The ship is a time capsule, a tangible link to a bygone era of ocean liners and grand voyages.

While the ship's future remains uncertain, one thing is clear: it has captured the imagination of the public. Countless stories and legends surround the Duke of Lancaster, adding to its mystique. Some say it's haunted, others believe it's a symbol of lost dreams and unfulfilled potential.

Whether you're a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the unusual, the Duke of Lancaster is a must-see. It's a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there's beauty to be found in the unexpected.

The pictures below were taken from the North Wales Coast walk, the path running around the Lancaster's berth, which is where I took these pictures from, the site clearly guarded against unwelcome visitors. I respected this and kept to the path, they were taken on the 27th July 2024 with a Nikon d3300. They can be seen in a higher resolution on my Clickasnap account.

Clicking any of the images should open a link to the higher resolution version on Clickasnap. Please take a moment to view my Zazzle stores and Photo4Me profile via the links below.

All the images remain the copyright of Colin Green.

Love Railway Stations? Capture their grandeur with my unique collection of postcards on Zazzle!

My passion for photography recently led me to Zazzle, where I discovered a way to transform my photos into amazing products. Among my bestsellers are stunning images of railway stations. Inspired by this, I've curated a collection of postcards featuring these architectural gems.

Browse the first 5 designs below that I turned into postcards, or unleash your creativity on Zazzle and create something truly special on a number of products to suit.

Sandal and Agbrigg Railway Station is a railway station serving the suburbs of Wakefield, West Yorkshire. Opened in 1866 as Sandal this station was closed to all traffic in 1957. The current halt was opened in 1987 on the site of the original station.

Berry Brow is a stop a few miles south of Huddersfield on the Penistone Line. Originally a double platform layout the original station was open from 1850 until 1966. The current single platform stop is built a few hundred yards further along the line from the original and opened in 1989.

The picture above shows the original station buildings at Brockholes, these are now a private residence situated on the disused platform at the station. Brockholes Railway Station opened in 1850 and was for a number of years a junction stop with the branch line to Holmfirth terminating here. The station was reduced to single track in 1989.

Wakefield Kirkgate Railway Station was the first to serve the city, opening in 1840 some 27 years before the well known Wakefield Westgate. The building pictured was opened in 1854 and the station has listed status, although many of the buildings and canopies were removed in the mid 1970's.

Deighton is another Yorkshire station that opened, then closed and then re-opened at a later date. The original Deighton Station opened in 1871 on the Kirkburton Branch Line that went off to the left of the picture. This closed in 1930 and the branch line was removed completely by the 1970's. The replacement station opened in 1982 on the main line where the original branch line junction had been.

All these postcards can be purchased from Zazzle by clicking any of the pictures above (link will open in another window) and browse the collection. The images can also be transferred to a number of alternative products.

Thanks for looking, please take a moment to share and follow me on social media.

All the images remain the copyright of Colin Green.

Sunday 21st July 2024 Update the following images have also been added to the collection today,

Bradford Interchange opened in 1973 to replace the nearby Bradford Exchange Station. The bus station was added in 1977 and the site is known as the main public transport hub for the area.

Brierfield Railway Station is a stop on the East Lancashire Line to the east of Burnley. The station was opened as a double track halt in February 1849 and remained that way until much of the line was singled in 1986.

Castleton Moor Railway Station was opened in April 1861 as a 2 platform stop on the North Yorkshire and Cleveland Railway. Much of the line was single track but a passing loop was installed here which was removed in the 1980's. The station is now part of the Esk Valley Line connecting Whitby with Middlesborough.

Burnley Barracks Railway Station opened in September 1848, closed a few months later and re-opened in 1851 taking the name Burnley barracks after the nearby military installations. The station is a request stop and is earmarked for closure if the line is reopened between Colne and Skipton.

Cottingley Railway Station is a stop in the suburbs of Leeds on the Huddersfield Line, a relative new station having opened in April 1988 it is earmarked for closure when the nearby delayed White Rose Station opens.

Huddersfield Railway Station was built 1846-50 and is a Grade I listed building. Probably one of the best looking stations in the United Kingdom, it also features a statue of former Prime Minister Harold Wilson outside it's main entrance in Saint George's Square.

These are a small selection of the postcards added to the collection, they are many others being added weekly that may be of interest that are not featured here.

Church of St Nicholas, Dunkeswell: A Historic Gem

Nestled in the beautiful English countryside near Honiton, Devon, lies the charming Church of St. Nicholas. With a history stretching back centuries, this church offers a unique blend of architectural styles and a warm welcome to all.

While the current building dates back to the mid-19th century, the site itself has been home to a place of worship for much longer. Intriguingly, the church's Norman font, adorned with mysterious figures, hints at an even older religious presence.

Step inside St. Nicholas and be greeted by the elegant Decorated Gothic design. The recent tower rebuild adds a touch of modern resilience to this historic structure. Interestingly, the original tower fell victim to the vibrations of wartime machinery stationed nearby!

The church is more than just beautiful stonework. The congregation is known for its friendliness and strong sense of community. Whether you're a local resident or simply passing through, you're warmly invited to join their Sunday services or spend a moment of quiet reflection in the church, which is open daily for prayer.

St. Nicholas also boasts some unique traditions. They hold a special service commemorating the Battle of Britain, alongside an annual American Memorial Service honouring those who served in Dunkeswell during World War II.

So, if you find yourself exploring Devon's stunning countryside, be sure to add St. Nicholas Church, Dunkeswell, to your itinerary. This hidden gem offers a glimpse into the area's rich history and a chance to connect with a welcoming community.

I previously posted about the church of St Nicholas and the nearby Dunkeswell Methodist Church on the 4th October 2021. The pictures below are some I recently re-edited for inclusion on various products I have for sale on my Zazzle store. Please take a moment to check out my stores, they can also be seen on my Clickasnap account in a higher resolution.

These images can be purchased on various products including postcards, mugs and clocks on Colin's Picture This Zazzle store, and in various posters and wall art from the C_Green_photography Store. These also include different versions including black and white, sepia, 1974 and vendredi styles. The images can also be transferred on to many other products as per your requirements.

Clicking the images should open a link to my C_G_photography or Colins_picture_this Zazzle stores, links will open in another window. Please take a minute to check out my stores, photo4me and Clickasnap profiles.

All the images remain the copyright of Colin Green.

Beech Recreation Ground, Sowerby Bridge

Nestled in the heart of Sowerby Bridge, Beech Recreation Ground is a haven for locals and visitors seeking a breath of fresh air and a chance to unwind. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a sports fanatic, or simply looking for a place to relax with family, this park offers something for everyone.

Green Space for All

Beech Park boasts a sprawling 3.3 acres of green space, perfect for a leisurely stroll, a picnic under the trees, or a game of frisbee with friends. The open fields provide ample room for children to run free and burn off energy, while the peaceful atmosphere is ideal for those seeking a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Sports and Activities

Looking for something a little more active? Beech Park caters to the sporty side as well. The park features a designated bike path, ideal for cyclists of all ages. For those who prefer a team sport, there's also space for informal football matches or kicking a ball around with friends.

Exploring the Area

Sowerby Bridge itself is a charming town with a rich history. After enjoying the park, take a stroll along the scenic Rochdale Canal or explore the quaint shops and cafes lining the streets.

Planning Your Visit

Beech Recreation Ground is easily accessible by foot or bike, and there's usually free parking available nearby. The park is open year-round, so you can enjoy its beauty throughout the seasons.

A Community Hub

Beech Park is more than just a green space; it's a vital part of the Sowerby Bridge community. It's a place where people come together to socialise, exercise, and connect with nature. Whether you're a local resident or just passing through, Beech Recreation Ground is a welcoming spot to relax, recharge, and create lasting memories.

A Little Sporting History

On the location of the only (semi) professional sports team to represent the town, the park was established in 1903. In the 1880s, the Sowerby Bridge Rugby Club was established. Many of the bigger local rugby teams moved to the Northern Union after the split in 1895; Sowerby Bridge did the same in time for the 1901–02 Yorkshire Senior Competition season. When the leagues were reorganised at the end of the season, the team chose to remain in the Yorkshire Senior Competition rather than apply for the new 2nd tier, despite winning 7 of the 26 games. Up until July 1903, when the team left the Northern Union and quickly dissolved, they were still in this competition.

The pictures below were taken with a Nikon d3300 camera on the 9th June 2024, they can also be seen on Clickasnap in a higher resolution.

Clicking any image should open a link in another window to the version on Clickasnap. Please take a minute to check out my Photo4Me portfolio and Zazzle stores via the links below.

All the images remain the copyright of Colin Green.

The Humble Stone Trough: From Useful Work Aid to Ornamental Design.

The stone trough is a familiar sight in many gardens, but its history and uses are surprisingly varied. These troughs were originally used for watering livestock, but they have found a new life in contemporary gardens as planters, birdbaths, and even water features.

Stone troughs are made from a variety of materials, including granite, limestone, and slate. They are often simple in design, with a rectangular or oval basin.

Stone troughs were once an essential part of any farm. They were used to provide livestock with water to drink, and they could also be used to mix feed or to bathe animals. With the advent of modern plumbing, stone troughs have become less common in agriculture.

However, stone troughs have become increasingly popular in recent years as a garden feature. Their timeless design and natural materials make them a perfect complement to any garden style. Stone troughs can be used in a variety of ways in the garden. Here are a few ideas:

• Planter: Stone troughs are a great way to add height and interest to a flower bed. They can be planted with a variety of flowers, herbs, or even small shrubs.
• Birdbath: Birds need a place to drink and bathe, and a stone trough can provide the perfect spot. Just be sure to add a few stones to the bottom of the trough so that birds of all sizes can easily reach the water.
• Water feature: A stone trough can be used to create a beautiful and relaxing water feature in your garden. Simply add a small pump and some aquatic plants. The sound of bubbling water can be very soothing.

Stone troughs are a versatile and attractive addition to any garden. With a little creativity, you can find a way to use a stone trough in your own garden.

The 2 pictured below can be found near the township of Warley, in the suburbs of Halifax, West Yorkshire. The lions head trough now more of a garden display than a useful watering aid is on the roadside of Stock Lane heading in to Warley from Highroad Well. The second trough is on Water Hill Lane heading down from Warley towards Sowerby Bridge.

The pictures were taken with a Nikon d3300 SLR on the 9th June 2024. They can also be seen on my Clickasnap account and copies can be purchased on various products from my Zazzle Stores.

Clicking either image should open a link in another window to the higher resolution version on Clickasnap.

All the images remain the copyright of Colin Green.

A Walk in Winter: The Calder and Hebble Navigation

These black and white photos capture the stark beauty of a winter scene along the Calder and Hebble Navigation. The path, blanketed in snow, winds its way alongside a still waterway. The trees lining the bank are bare, their branches reaching out like skeletal fingers towards the inky sky.

The absence of color in this photo only heightens the sense of tranquility. The world seems hushed, blanketed in a peaceful silence. Footprints visible in the snow are likely those of lonely hikers, making the viewer feel as though they are a remote person in this isolated landscape.

The Calder and Hebble Navigation is a 21-mile canal in West Yorkshire, England. It was built in the late 18th century to connect Sowerby Bridge with Wakefield. Today, the canal is a popular spot for walking, cycling, and boating.

This photo is a reminder that even in the depths of winter, there is beauty to be found in the natural world. The stark contrast of the black and white tones highlights the simple elegance of the scene. The stillness of the river and the bare branches of the trees create a sense of peace and tranquility.

If you're looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, the Calder and Hebble Navigation is a great option. A walk along the canal towpath is a chance to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of the season, whatever the weather.

In addition to its natural beauty, the Calder and Hebble Navigation is also steeped in history. The canal was an important transportation artery during the Industrial Revolution, and there are a number of old mills and warehouses along its banks. Today, these buildings have been converted into homes, businesses, and arts centers.

Whether you're interested in history, nature, or simply looking for a place to relax, the Calder and Hebble Navigation is a great place to visit. So next time you're in West Yorkshire, be sure to take a walk along this historic waterway. You might just be surprised by the beauty you find.

The pictures below were taken on the 17th January 2016 with a Nikon D3300 Camera, they can also be seen in a higher resolution on Clickasnap, by simply clicking any of the images. All will open in another window.

The canal pictured looking away from Walker Lane Bridge towards Chain Bridge. The Sowerby Bridge Gas Works and Gasometers used to occupy a site to the left of the picture just beyond the trees, the gasometers have long since been removed.

The canal is pictured here between Hollas Lane Bridge (Sterne Mills Bridge) and Edwards Road Bridge (Canal Mills Bridge). Both Bridges tend to known by either name, the land to the left of the picture has been redeveloped in to Copley Valley a mixed use zone of housing, industry and nature areas since this picture was taken. The land to the right of the picture may also face redevelopment in the coming years, it was for a number of years a car park for the Halifax Bank's Copley Data Centre, this has been closed for a while now with the data set to close and be sold off in the near future.

The canal towards Mearclough Canal Bridge, the waterway narrows a little here, often wondered why.

Clicking any image should open a link to the version on Clickasnap. Various images and products of mine are avaliable to view and purchase from the sites below, clicking any link will open in another window.

All the images remain the copyright of Colin Green.

The following images are the colour versions of the pictures,

A Pint with History, The Fountain Head Inn, Halifax

Nestled in the heart of Pellon on the outskirts of Halifax, West Yorkshire, lies The Fountain Head Inn. With a rich history dating back to the 1790s, this watering hole offers a unique blend of traditional charm and contemporary comfort.

Step inside The Fountain Head, and you're stepping back in time. Originally built as Fountain Head Farm in 1792, the building itself is a testament to Halifax's heritage. But the most interesting connection comes in the form of Samuel Webster, who was born here in 1813. Yes, the founder of Webster's Brewery! The very first Websters ales were brewed on this very site in 1838, making The Fountain Head a cornerstone of Halifax's brewing legacy. The brewery would eventually move a short distance along the valley and continue to brew Websters ales until 1996, when it was finally closed by the then owners, Scottish Courage.

The Fountain Head Inn, with its distinct Websters livery, is all that now remains in the Pellon area as a nod to its famous brewing past, and it is the remains of a once-thriving pub community that included the nearby Pellon Social Club, The Halfway House, Golden Pheasant, New Street, and The Wheatsheaf, a number of which have closed in recent years as drinking habits have changed.

I took these images of the outside of the pub on the 27th April 2024 with a Nikon D3300; they can also be seen on Clickasnap in a higher resolution.

Clicking the pictures should open a link in another window to the version on Clickasnap. Various images and products of mine can be purchased from the sites below by clicking on any of the links, they all open in another window.

All the images remain the copyright of Colin Green.