Narrowboat at rest
Narrowboat at rest
These boats are moored on the Staffordshire and Worcester canal, normally just called the Staffs and Worcs. This peaceful location is disturbed only by passing boats and walkers.
Steve Stamford
Image size: 6000 x 4000, 20.34Mb | Camera details: NIKON D7200 | Date uploaded: 31/05/2020
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Recent Works by Steve Stamford
Warrior
A fantasy scene - Maybe the warrior and the dragon are a team, maybe they plan to flight - What you see here is down to you. A composite image from two background images of mine plus two used under CC licence Dragon from CactusKim here - http://www.deviantart.com/art/PNG-Dregon-Dragon-364756360 and Warrior from mjranum-stock here - http://mjranum-stock.deviantart.com/art/Barbarian-Warrior-27-77829696?qj=1&q=boost%3Apopular%20in%3Aresources&qo=287
Aries
Scanned from an original hand drawn and coloured depiction of the star sign Aries and as such does include some 'imperfections' that make it truly unique. PLEASE NOTE:- It is only suitable for mugs or paper / canvas prints in the following sizes 10X20, 12X24, 20X40 I am not the author of this work; I represent the artist.
Cancer
Scanned from an original hand drawn and coloured depiction of the star sign Cancer and as such does include some 'imperfections' that make it truly unique. PLEASE NOTE:- It is only suitable for mugs or paper / canvas prints in the following sizes 10X20, 12X24, 20X40 I am not the author of this work; I represent the artist.
Leo
Scanned from an original hand drawn and coloured depiction of the star sign Leo and as such does include some 'imperfections' that make it truly unique. PLEASE NOTE:- It is only suitable for mugs or paper / canvas prints in the following sizes 10X20, 12X24, 20X40 I am not the author of this work; I represent the artist.
Pisces
Scanned from an original hand drawn and coloured depiction of the star sign Pisces and as such does include some 'imperfections' that make it truly unique. PLEASE NOTE:- It is only suitable for mugs or paper / canvas prints in the following sizes 10X20, 12X24, 20X40 I am not the author of this work; I represent the artist.
Scorpio
Scanned from an original hand drawn and coloured depiction of the star sign Scorpio and as such does include some 'imperfections' that make it truly unique. PLEASE NOTE:- It is only suitable for mugs or paper / canvas prints in the following sizes 10X20, 12X24, 20X40 I am not the author of this work; I represent the artist.
Hamilton's mausoleum
Hamilton Mausoleum is regarded as one of the finest private tombs in the UK. Standing some 37 metres it was constructed to be the resting place of the Dukes of Hamilton and their family. It is famous for its acoustics which create long lasting echoes. I am CAA licensed for commercial use of my drone.
Bentley Brook autumn
Just outside the town of Matlock in Derbyshire there is a little lane that unassumingly goes to a place called Lumsdale. Lumsdale was in its day a major industrial area, powered by a series of water mills courtesy of the Bentley Brook. Long since abandoned nature is now taking things back. This is Bentley Brook - meandering through the autumn colours now unhindered.
Penshaw Monument stars
Standing on top of a 136m (446ft) hill above Sunderland is the Earl of Durham's Monument probably more widely known as Penshaw Monument . It is a half size replica of the Temple of Hephaestus in Athens and as you can see here is beautifully lit at night. This is an original image of mine with a sky replacement in Luminar 4
Aquarius
Scanned from an original hand drawn and coloured depiction of the star sign Aquarius and as such does include some 'imperfections' that make it truly unique. PLEASE NOTE:- It is only suitable for mugs or paper / canvas prints in the following sizes 10X20, 12X24, 20X40 I am not the author of this work, I represent the artist.
Capricorn
Scanned from an original hand drawn and coloured depiction of the star sign Capricorn and as such does include some 'imperfections' that make it truly unique. PLEASE NOTE:- It is only suitable for mugs or paper / canvas prints in the following sizes 10X20, 12X24, 20X40 I am not the author of this work; I represent the artist.
Gemini
Scanned from an original hand drawn and coloured depiction of the star sign Gemini and as such does include some 'imperfections' that make it truly unique. PLEASE NOTE:- It is only suitable for mugs or paper / canvas prints in the following sizes 10X20, 12X24, 20X40 I am not the author of this work; I represent the artist.
Libra
Scanned from an original hand drawn and coloured depiction of the star sign Libra and as such does include some 'imperfections' that make it truly unique. PLEASE NOTE:- It is only suitable for mugs or paper / canvas prints in the following sizes 10X20, 12X24, 20X40 I am not the author of this work; I represent the artist.
Sagittarius
Scanned from an original hand drawn and coloured depiction of the star sign Sagittarius and as such does include some 'imperfections' that make it truly unique. PLEASE NOTE:- It is only suitable for mugs or paper / canvas prints in the following sizes 10X20, 12X24, 20X40 I am not the author of this work; I represent the artist.
Taurus
Scanned from an original hand drawn and coloured depiction of the star sign Taurus and as such does include some 'imperfections' that make it truly unique. PLEASE NOTE:- It is only suitable for mugs or paper / canvas prints in the following sizes 10X20, 12X24, 20X40 I am not the author of this work; I represent the artist.
Virgo
Scanned from an original hand drawn and coloured depiction of the star sign Virgo and as such does include some 'imperfections' that make it truly unique. PLEASE NOTE:- It is only suitable for mugs or paper / canvas prints in the following sizes 10X20, 12X24, 20X40 I am not the author of this work; I represent the artist..
Sulphur Tuft fungi
The sulphur Tuft - Hypholoma fasciculare is a common fungi that grows in tight clusters hence one of its common names - clustered woodlover. It is poisonous and if eaten (despite its bitter taste) symptoms include convulsions, temporary paralysis and distorted vision. Please note I am no expert and do not promise my ID of this is correct.
Unnamed wreck aerial 2
At Dulas on Anglesey in Wales there is an expansive area that dries out at low tide and this abandoned ship sits, slowly rotting. Despite many hours (and several friends) trying to find out what it was called it remains, to me at least - the unnamed wreck. I am a CAA licensed drone operator - copy of permit on my web site.
Unnamed wreck aerial
At Dulas on Anglesey in Wales there is an expansive area that dries out at low tide and this abandoned ship sits, slowly rotting. Despite many hours (and several friends) trying to find out what it was called it remains, to me at least - the unnamed wreck. I am a CAA licensed drone operator - copy of permit on my web site.
Aber Falls 3
Located amongst the Berwyn Mountains Pistyll Rhaeadr is the tallest waterfall in Wales (and England) with a fall of around 120ft. A very popular tourist attraction that is accessed via a small, often single track road that means an early start is essential if you wish to park and enjoy a less cluttered visit.
Aber Falls 1
Located amongst the Berwyn Mountains Aber Falls is the tallest waterfall in Wales (and England) with a fall of around 120ft. A very popular tourist attraction that is accessed via a small, often single track road that means an early start is essential if you wish to park and enjoy a less cluttered visit.
Aber Falls 2
Located amongst the Berwyn Mountains Aber Falls is the tallest waterfall in Wales (and England) with a fall of around 120ft. A very popular tourist attraction that is accessed via a small, often single track road that means an early start is essential if you wish to park and enjoy a less cluttered visit
Juvenile Cormorant 4
Young cormorants (Phalacrocorax carbo) are normally fed twice a day by the parents and spend the rest of the time pretty much just sitting around waiting for the next meal time interspersed with the odd swim around to relieve the boredom. The young cormorant does not develop the distinguishing emerald green eye until it approaches maturity.
Juvenile Cormorant 5
Young cormorants (Phalacrocorax carbo) are normally fed twice a day by the parents and spend the rest of the time pretty much just sitting around waiting for the next meal time interspersed with the odd swim around to relieve the boredom. The young cormorant does not develop the distinguishing emerald green eye until it approaches maturity.
Young Cormorant 1
Young cormorants (Phalacrocorax carbo) are normally fed twice a day by the parents and spend the rest of the time pretty much just sitting around waiting for the next meal time interspersed with the odd swim around to relieve the boredom. The young cormorant does not develop the distinguishing emerald green eye until it approaches maturity.
Fairy Falls
The shutter speed here was chosen to show softness in the water. That same image with a faster shutter speed is also available. At Trefriw you will find Fairy Falls as the river Crafnant drops approximately 25ft then continues its course to be a tributary of the river Conwy. A little upstream some of the water is diverted to power a small hydro plant for the adjacent woollen mill. The name Fairy Falls comes from the imaginative Edwardians and Victorians who had a fascination with fairies who they believe have an affinity with waterfalls.
Fairy Falls 2
The shutter speed here was chosen to capture sharpness in the water. That same image with a slower shutter speed showing a milkier look is also available. At Trefriw you will find Fairy Falls as the river Crafnant drops approximately 25ft then continues its course to be a tributary of the river Conwy. A little upstream some of the water is diverted to power a small hydro plant for the adjacent woollen mill. The name Fairy Falls comes from the imaginative Edwardians and Victorians who had a fascination with fairies who they believe have an affinity with waterfalls.
Fairy Falls 3
At Trefriw you will find Fairy Falls as the river Crafnant drops approximately 25ft then continues its course to be a tributary of the river Conwy. A little upstream some of the water is diverted to power a small hydro plant for the adjacent woollen mill. The name Fairy Falls comes from the imaginative Edwardians and Victorians who had a fascination with fairies who they believe have an affinity with waterfalls.
Juvenile Cormorant 1
Young cormorants (Phalacrocorax carbo) are normally fed twice a day by the parents and spend the rest of the time pretty much just sitting around waiting for the next meal time interspersed with the odd swim around to relieve the boredom. The young cormorant does not develop the distinguishing emerald green eye until it approaches maturity.
Juvenile Cormorant 2
Young cormorants (Phalacrocorax carbo) are normally fed twice a day by the parents and spend the rest of the time pretty much just sitting around waiting for the next meal time interspersed with the odd swim around to relieve the boredom. The young cormorant does not develop the distinguishing emerald green eye until it approaches maturity.
St Ann's Well, Buxton
Famous of course for its spring water Buxton has been a spa town for hundreds of years with people coming to 'take the waters'. This little fountain works all year round, the water slightly warm after its passage through the earth and there is normally a queue of people filling up all manner of receptacles to take home.
Solomons temple, Buxton
On the outskirts of Buxton in Derbyshire on a hill know as Grin Low you'll find Solomon's Temple. Never actually a temple it was constructed as a folly by Solomon Mycock and later fell into disrepair, eventually becoming nothing more than a pile of stones. In 1986 it was rebuilt in a matter of months then restored in 1988 by public subscription. The tower is not truly vertical, leaning and bulging in several directions.
Roche Rock chapel 1
Roche Rock in Cornwall is a black granite outcrop some 20 metres high and was used as a hermitage for many and some time in the 15th century a more elaborate chapel was built. It is now frequented by locals as place to walk and climbers who ascend the steep sides. For the less intrepid there are two metal runged ladders built into the rock face that make it easier to reach the top and admire the views.
Roche Rock chapel 2
Roche Rock in Cornwall is a black granite outcrop some 20 metres high and was used as a hermitage for many and some time in the 15th century a more elaborate chapel was built. It is now frequented by locals as place to walk and climbers who ascend the steep sides. For the less intrepid there are two metal runged ladders built into the rock face that make it easier to reach the top and admire the views.
Stamps engine house 1
Wheal Peevor was a very successful mine in Cornwall and the site has now been turned into a visitor and educational site where its three engine houses remain visible from miles around. This is the Stamps Engine House - stamps were used to crush the rock in preparation for further processing.
Stamps engine house 2
Wheal Peevor was a very successful mine in Cornwall and the site has now been turned into a visitor and educational site where its three engine houses remain visible from miles around. This is the Stamps Engine House - stamps were used to crush the rock in preparation for further processing.
Stamps engine house 3
Wheal Peevor was a very successful mine in Cornwall and the site has now been turned into a visitor and educational site where its three engine houses remain visible from miles around. This is the Stamps Engine House - stamps were used to crush the rock in preparation for further processing.
Wheal Peevor Stamps 1
Wheal Peevor was a very successful mine in Cornwall and the site has now been turned into a visitor and educational site where its three engine houses remain visible from miles around. This is the Stamps Engine House - stamps were used to crush the rock in preparation for further processing.
Wheal Peevor Stamps 2
Wheal Peevor was a very successful mine in Cornwall and the site has now been turned into a visitor and educational site where its three engine houses remain visible from miles around. This is the Stamps Engine House - stamps were used to crush the rock in preparation for further processing
Wheal Peevor Winding House 1
Wheal Peevor was a very successful mine in Cornwall and the site has now been turned into a visitor and educational site where its three engine houses remain visible from miles around. This is the Winding Engine House - used to haul ore and waste from Sir Frederick's shaft.
Wheal Peevor Winding House 2
Wheal Peevor was a very successful mine in Cornwall and the site has now been turned into a visitor and educational site where its three engine houses remain visible from miles around. This is the Winding Engine House - used to haul ore and waste from Sir Frederick's shaft.
Roche Rock aerial 1
Roche Rock in Cornwall is a black granite outcrop some 20 metres high and was used as a hermitage for many and some time in the 15th century a more elaborate chapel was built. It is now frequented by locals as place to walk and climbers who ascend the steep sides. For the less intrepid there are two metal runged ladders built into the rock face that make it easier to reach the top and admire the views.
Roche Rock aerial 2
Roche Rock in Cornwall is a black granite outcrop some 20 metres high and was used as a hermitage for many and some time in the 15th century a more elaborate chapel was built. It is now frequented by locals as place to walk and climbers who ascend the steep sides. For the less intrepid there are two metal runged ladders built into the rock face that make it easier to reach the top and admire the views.
Etching Hill 1
Etching Hill started as an independent village centuries ago and over time has been enveloped by the adjacent town of Rugeley. The 'hill' is sandstone leading to literally its entire surface being covered in scratched graffiti. I am a CAA licensed drone operator, copy of my permit is available on my web site.
Etching Hill 2
Etching Hill started as an independent village centuries ago and over time has been enveloped by the adjacent town of Rugeley. The 'hill' is sandstone leading to literally its entire surface being covered in scratched graffiti. I am a CAA licensed drone operator, copy of my permit is available on my web site.
Etching Hill 3
Etching Hill started as an independent village centuries ago and over time has been enveloped by the adjacent town of Rugeley. The 'hill' is sandstone leading to literally its entire surface being covered in scratched graffiti. I am a CAA licensed drone operator, copy of my permit is available on my web site.
Etching Hill 4
Etching Hill started as an independent village centuries ago and over time has been enveloped by the adjacent town of Rugeley. The 'hill' is sandstone leading to literally its entire surface being covered in scratched graffiti. I am a CAA licensed drone operator, copy of my permit is available on my web site.
Whitby jaw bones
Possibly the most famous landmark in Whitby the Whitby jaw bones - otherwise known as the Jaw Bones of Whitney. These are real whale jaw bones, given to the town in 2002 to replace the much older, and sadly worse for wear 1963 originals. In the distance is St Mary's church and part of Whitby Abbey ruins.
Cormorant spread 1
I have waited for over a month for this moment. This cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo) is a regular visitor to where I live and has chosen the marina fuelling jetty as a resting place. Its heavier build and stunning green eye with no feathers surrounding it differentiates it from the similar looking shag.
Cormorant spread 3
I have waited for over a month for this moment. This cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo) is a regular visitor to where I live and has chosen the marina fuelling jetty as a resting place. Its heavier build and stunning green eye with no feathers surrounding it differentiates it from the similar looking shag.
Cormorant spread 2
I have waited for over a month for this moment. This cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo) is a regular visitor to where I live and has chosen the marina fuelling jetty as a resting place. Its heavier build and stunning green eye with no feathers surrounding it differentiates it from the similar looking shag.
Ironbridge market square
In the town of Ironbridge In Shropshire is a rather quant array of shops and of course the Tea Emporium. Famous of course for its iron bridge Ironbridge is an extremely popular tourist attraction. There are some overhead cables in real life but I have digitally removed these.
Great Haywood aerial
Great Haywood junction is the meeting of the Trent and Mersey canal with the Staffordshire and Worcestershire. This is a popular place to stay for a few days and the boatyard to the right is a hire base for a fleet of narrowboats. I am a CAA licensed drone operator, PfCO available to view on my web site.
Busy day at the lock
Whenever a boat approaches a lock it and its crew immediately become the day's entertainment. These watchers are known to canal folk as gongoozlers - or goozlers for short. No harm is meant by this and by far and away the majority of boaters are happy to explain to them how it all works and accept a push on the balance beams.
Leaning on the beam
A lady working Colwich Lock, number 21, on the Trent and Mersey canal leans on the top gate beam. There is no rushing a lock and by leaning against the beam you can feel when the gate can be opened by the slight twitch it gives. A recent rain shower has left the beam wet and gently steaming in the sunshine that followed.
Looking over lock 21
Colwich Lock, number 21, on the Trent and Mersey canal is in a wonderfully rural location with just one cottage beside it. The balance beams on the gates are normally much longer, literally balancing the weight of the gates and providing leverage. Here though there was not space for the normal length of beam so metal weights were added at the handles. Balances the beam nicely, but does nothing to help the missing leverage.
Tixall Gatehouse landscape
This rather splendid gatehouse was built in 1580 to as part of the Tixall Hall estate and is all that remains - the hall itself was demolished in 1927. The gatehouse is a Grade 1 listed building, now in the care of the Landmark Trust and is available as a holiday hire, sleeping up to 6 people in style.
Tixall Gatehouse portrait
This rather splendid gatehouse was built in 1580 to as part of the Tixall Hall estate and is all that remains - the hall itself was demolished in 1927. The gatehouse is a Grade 1 listed building, now in the care of the Landmark Trust and is available as a holiday hire, sleeping up to 6 people in style.
Tixall wide aerial
Tixall Wide or as it sometimes known Tixall Broad can be found on the Staffordshire and Worcester canal. It is as far as I know the only place full length narrowboat can do complete 360 turn. Dating back to the 1770s it was either a lake that the canal conveniently used or was dug at the insistence of the land owner at the time who granted permission to go through his land provided the canal looked like a lake from his mansion. Take your pick which version you wish to believe. I hold a CAA Permit for Commercial Operation to fly and sell work from my drone.
Breedon church
Originally the site of a monastery back in the 7th century it became a priory around 1120 AD before being surrendered for dissolution in November 1539. The church we see here - St Mary and St Hardulph, also known as Breedon Priory and Holy Hill Monastery is now Grade 1 Listed. I am a CAA licensed drone pilot - copy of permit is available on my web site.
Ferry Bridge aerial 2
Opened in 1889 and re-opened after a major refurbishment in 2016 Ferry Bridge was enormously important as it replaced a ferry - hence ferry bridge - that caused both delays and risks to workers travelling to and from Burton on Trent and adjacent Stapenhill. I hold a CAA Permit for Commercial Operation to fly and sell work from my drone.
Ferry Bridge aerial 1
Opened in 1889 and re-opened after a major refurbishment in 2016 Ferry Bridge was enormously important as it replaced a ferry - hence ferry bridge - that caused both delays and risks to workers travelling to and from Burton on Trent and adjacent Stapenhill. I hold a CAA Permit for Commercial Operation to fly and sell work from my drone.
Approaching Alrewas
Travelling upstream from Wychnor the Trent and Mersey canal engineers made use of the River Trent for a short while and this necessitated a towpath bridge known as 1/4 mile bridge when the canal and rive split as the village of Alrewas was reached and the two went their separate ways.
Lock 12 at Alrewas
This little bypass weir is at lock 12 on the Trent and Mersey canal at Alrewas, Staffordshire. Bypass weirs allowed excess water from the pound (area between 2 locks) above to safely flow around the lock and to the lower pound. Several nettle stings were received getting the angle so you can see a narrowboat through the fence.
Approaching Alrewas 2
Travelling upstream from Wychnor the Trent and Mersey canal engineers made use of the River Trent for a short while and this necessitated a towpath bridge known as 1/4 mile bridge when the canal and rive split as the village of Alrewas was reached and the two went their separate ways.
Quarter mile landscape
I'm not sure if Quarter Mile bridge actually is a quarter of a mile, but that is what it is known as to boaters. Officially it is 45g on the Trent and Mersey canal. Effectively a single file path with a couple of small passing bays and it spans the River Trent as both a river and the returning flow from a mill stream.
Quarter mile portrait
I'm not sure if Quarter Mile bridge actually is a quarter of a mile, but that is what it is known as to boaters. Officially it is 45g on the Trent and Mersey canal. Effectively a single file path with a couple of small passing bays and it spans the River Trent as both a river and the returning flow from a mill stream
Quarter Mile Bridge 1
I'm not sure if Quarter Mile bridge actually is a quarter of a mile, but that is what it is known as to boaters. Officially it is 45g on the Trent and Mersey canal. Effectively a single file path with a couple of small passing bays it spans the River Trent as both a river (on the right here) and the returning flow from a mill stream (on the left just to the right of the lock). I am a CAA licensed drone operator, copy of permit available on request.
Quarter Mile Bridge 2
I'm not sure if Quarter Mile bridge actually is a quarter of a mile, but that is what it is known as to boaters. Officially it is 45g on the Trent and Mersey canal. Effectively a single file path with a couple of small passing bays and it spans the River Trent as both a river (nearest and to the right here) and the returning flow from a mill stream (in the middle of this image). The canal is to the left. I am a CAA licensed drone operator, copy of permit available on request.
Quarter Mile Bridge 3
I'm not sure if Quarter Mile bridge actually is a quarter of a mile, but that is what it is known as to boaters. Officially it is 45g on the Trent and Mersey canal. Effectively a single file path with a couple of small passing bays and it spans the River Trent as both a river (furthest away) and the returning flow from a mill stream (in the middle of this image). The canal is in the foreground. I am a CAA licensed drone operator, copy of permit available on request.
Quarter Mile Bridge 4
I'm not sure if Quarter Mile bridge actually is a quarter of a mile, but that is what it is known as to boaters. Officially it is 45g on the Trent and Mersey canal. Effectively a single file path with a couple of small passing bays and it spans the River Trent as both a river and the returning flow from a mill stream. The canalised River Trent is on the right in this image.
Wren leaving the nest
The wren (Troglodytes troglodytes) is a very active small bird, weighing around 10g - about half an ounce. This male has been building this nest for some weeks, however it will be one of several he builds in an attempt to woo a female. This one has chosen the build under the front overhang of a boat roof.
Wren nest building
The wren (Troglodytes troglodytes) is a very active small bird, weighing around 10g - about half an ounce. This male has been building this nest for some weeks, however it will be one of several he builds in an attempt to woo a female. This one has chosen the build under the front overhang of a boat roof.
The Devonshire Hospital, Buxton
Or at least it was the Devonshire Hospital. For many years it was famed as a joint replacement and physiotherapy specialist hospital but as hospital stays for joint replacements went from many weeks to just a few days the powers that be decided it was no longer viable. Now part of the University of Derby much of it remains open, including the famous hydrotherapy pool - but now as a part of the university, not a hospital.
Sir Nigel Gresley
60007 Sir Nigel Gresley was the 100th built of this design and like most locomotives went through a variety of number systems through its life. It was the first locomotive to run a scheduled service of over 100mph and on the maiden trip on 23rd May 1959 it achieved 112mph setting the official post war record.
Sir Nigel Gresley 2
60007 Sir Nigel Gresley was the 100th built of this design and like most locomotives went through a variety of number systems through its life. It was the first locomotive to run a scheduled service of over 100mph and on the maiden trip on 23rd May 1959 it achieved 112mph setting the official post war record.
Glasswing butterfly
The Glasswing butterfly (Greta oto) lacks the coloured scales that give other butterflies their distinctive patterns. This means that unlike the 'normal' butterflies the wings of the Glasswing are see-through and this strategy helps them evade predation as prey animals literally see straight through them.
Aethelflaed
This statue of Aethelflaed and her nephew who later became King Athelstan sits at the foot of Tamworth castle. Possibly simultaneously one of the most influential and forgotten ladies in English history Aethelflaed, daughter of King Alfred the Great was often known as Queen of Mercia and is widely regarded as one of the most powerful female rulers of the time.
Waleswood
Built in 1906 and operated in Waleswood colliery - hence the name. A 0-4-0 saddle tank it has undergone several restorations and rebuilds, the latest of which has seen it return to active service on the Chasewater railway in Cannock, Staffordshire. This image was taken from the adjacent public footpath.
Locomotive 08359
This charming little diesel locomotive is one of just under 1,000 of its type built. It is a diesel electric and like many such engines moves from preserved line to preserved line so is well known to enthusiasts. Seen here at Chasewater, Cannock, Staffordshire and taken from the adjacent footpath.
Vita Nova 4
The Vita Nova (new life) - Z588 started life as a Belgian trawler in 1967. She subsequently spent some time in Ireland before being de-commissioned and bought by a family to live on. It came to grief, being washed ashore in the winter of 2014/15 and has been slowly decaying ever since. This is a composite of my photo (the boat) and a free to use image from Pixabay (sky).
Furness Abbey 5
Furness Abbey - also known as St Mary of Furness was once the second most powerful and of course wealthy in the country (Fountains being the first). It was destroyed on the orders of Henry VIII in 1537 during the reformation. I am a CAA licensed drone operator - details can be verified on the CAA website.
Piel Island
Piel island is approximately 50 acres and lies off the coast of Barrow in Furness. The castle is currently in the hands of English Heritage though not open to the public. There is a public house and the landlord has the official title of 'King of Piel'. It can be visited during the summer via a ferry or on very low tides - a walkway. I am a CAA licensed drone operator and this can be verified on the CAA web site.
Walney lighthouse
Still in service the Walney lighthouse we see here was completed in 1804. It remained virtually unchanged until 1903 when it was converted to run on acetylene, then the advent of electric light saw another upgrade in 1953. In 2003 it was automated and thus bought to a close manned lighthouses in the UK.
Furness Abbey 1
Furness Abbey - also known as St Mary of Furness was once the second most powerful and of course wealthy in the country (Fountains being the first). It was destroyed on the orders of Henry VIII in 1537 during the reformation. I am a CAA licensed drone operator - details can be verified on the CAA website.
Furness Abbey 2
urness Abbey - also known as St Mary of Furness was once the second most powerful and of course wealthy in the country (Fountains being the first). It was destroyed on the orders of Henry VIII in 1537 during the reformation. I am a CAA licensed drone operator - details can be verified on the CAA website.
Furness Abbey 3
urness Abbey - also known as St Mary of Furness was once the second most powerful and of course wealthy in the country (Fountains being the first). It was destroyed on the orders of Henry VIII in 1537 during the reformation. I am a CAA licensed drone operator - details can be verified on the CAA website.
Furness Abbey 4
Furness Abbey - also known as St Mary of Furness was once the second most powerful and of course wealthy in the country (Fountains being the first). It was destroyed on the orders of Henry VIII in 1537 during the reformation. I am a CAA licensed drone operator - details can be verified on the CAA website.
XL 568 Hawker Hunter
The Hawker Hunter was a sub-sonic jet fighter plane that also saw service as a fighter / bomber and latterly a reconnaissance plane. This image is of Hawker Hunter XL 586 which first took to the skies in 1958 and served with several squadrons, eventually retiring in 2002 when it became a display item at Cosford air museum. A composite of two of my original images.
XG337 Lightning
An image of an English Electric Lightning XG337 performing a vertical climb. Although not capable of a true vertical take off it could - and did do vertical climbs pretty much as soon as it left the ground reaching 30,000 feet in 2 minutes. It was the UK's first supersonic aircraft - capable of sustained supersonic flight without needing afterburners to do so and reached Mach 2 in 1958. A composite of two of my original images.
Dinmore Manor 7820
Dinmore Manor, 7820 is a 4-6-0 steam locomotive built in 1950 by British Railways working until she was withdrawn in 1965 then effectively sold for scrap. Several changes of hands took pace before restoration at Tyesley, returning to steam in 1995. Seen here on the North Norfolk railway at Weybourne.
Dinmore Manor in motion
Dinmore Manor, 7820 is a 4-6-0 steam locomotive built in 1950 by British Railways working until she was withdrawn in 1965 then effectively sold for scrap. Several changes of hands took pace before restoration at Tyesley, returning to steam in 1995. Seen here on the North Norfolk railway at Weybourne.
Elvaston Castle
Elvaston Castle was once the seat of the Harrington family and now in the hands of Derbyshire County Council. It has long stood mainly empty as plans for its future have come and gone - the only part in regular use is a tea room. The white structure on the roof is a greenhouse - a relic of the days when gentlefolk collected and grew rare specimens of plant.
Waterfall at Lumsdale
Lumsdale is now a beautiful secluded valley in Derbyshire situated between Chesterfield and Matlock. In its heyday though it was a bustling centre of industry as the steep sided valley provided a fast flowing and powerful stream that was harvested to power several mills producing a range of goods
Cockatrice window
The Cockatrice is a mythical creature, a serpent with the head of a cockerel. Able to destroy animals (except for some unknown reason the weasel) or vegetation with a stare or it's breath. It could be destroyed by use of a mirror whereby it would attack its own reflection. This image is based on a stained glass window and as such shows the 'imperfections' in colours and shades you can expect in something several hundred years old.
Popinjay
One of those old words that seems to have gathered several meanings through time. Poppinjay was a once common name for a parrot but is also used as an insult, implying someone is all noise and show but very little substance. This example is on a church window but has been heavily processed to produce the image you see here. The guide at the church tells me the Popinjay was a mythical creature and this window is many hundreds of years old so possibly Popinjay as a mythincal animal pre-dates other uses of the word.
Milk thistle
Known by more names than is good for it the Milk Thistle - Silybum marianum is a common weed or flower depending on your point of view. Famous of course as being the flower of Scotland it is also well known for being extremely prickly as anyone who has ever tried picking one will testify. This image is the result of a 13 image focus stack.
Milk thistle
Known by more names than is good for it the Milk Thistle - Silybum marianum is a common weed or flower depending on your point of view. Famous of course as being the flower of Scotland it is also well known for being extremely prickly as anyone who has ever tried picking one will testify. This image is the result of a 13 image focus stack.
Young Bald Eagle 1
Bald Eagle - Haliaeetus leucocephalus. Despite the name bald eagles aren't - their head feathers are white but this is a juvenile and won't grow that distinctive white head until around 5 years old. With a wing span of up to 8 feet and feeding on pretty much everything from carrion to fish it is an opportunistic feeder.
Young Bald Eagle 2
Bald Eagle - Haliaeetus leucocephalus. Despite the name bald eagles aren't - their head feathers are white but this is a juvenile and won't grow that distinctive white head until around 5 years old. With a wing span of up to 8 feet and feeding on pretty much everything from carrion to fish it is an opportunistic feeder.
Miners of Rugeley
On a roundabout known locally as 'Globe Island' are four concrete statues each around 9ft tall commemorating the 115 miners who lost their lives in the Lee Hall and Brereton collieries. Each statue represents a different era, one from the 1930s, one from the 1950s, a rescue miner and a mine Deputy. The Rugeley sign is adjacent to the roundabout. This is a montage created from 5 of my original images.
The hermit's cross
Somewhere around 1130 AD or so the story goes a Derby baker known as Cornelius saw a vision of the Virgin Mary in which he was told to come here and worship God. He dug this hermitage out of the sandstone and included a carved cross then lived here for some 20 years before moving to a nearby more conventional dwelling.
Hemlock Stone
As ever with such things no one actually knows why this is called the Hemlock Stone, though of course theories abound based on old punctuations and long lost words. On 3 June 2002 to celebrate the Golden Jubilee of Elizabeth II a large bonfire was lit on the top of Hemlock Stone as part of the worldwide chain of 2,006 beacons.
Spitfire MK356 swoop
Here is that most beautiful piece of aero engineering - the Spitfire. This is the BBMF Spitfire Mk LF IXe MK356 seen here sporting desert camouflage and the squadron code QJ3 representing a Spitfire Mk IX of 92 Squadron in Tunisia in 1943. This is a composite of two of my own original images.
Spitfire MK356
Seen here is that most beautiful piece of aero engineering - the Spitfire. This is the BBMF Spitfire Mk LF IXe MK356 seen here sporting desert camouflage and the squadron code QJ3 representing a Spitfire Mk IX of 92 Squadron in Tunisia in 1943. This is a composite of two of my own original images.
The hermit's cave
Somewhere around 1130 AD or so the story goes a Derby baker known as Cornelius saw a vision of the Virgin Mary in which he was told to come here and worship God. He dug this hermitage out of the sandstone and then lived here for some 20 years before moving to a nearby more conventional dwelling.
View from Pennard Castle portrait
Perched on the top of a valley and overlooking 3 Cliffs Bay in South Wales are the remains of Pennard Castle. To its north and west are the kind of sheer drop that would thwart even a goat, but sadly not sand. It seems the sand blowing up into and around the castle finally led to it being abandoned around the end of the 14th century. This image is also available as a square orientation.
View from Pennard Castle square
Perched on the top of a valley and overlooking 3 Cliffs Bay in South Wales are the remains of Pennard Castle. To its north and west are the kind of sheer drop that would thwart even a goat, but sadly not sand. It seems the sand blowing up into and around the castle finally led to it being abandoned around the end of the 14th century. This image is also available as a portrait orientation.
Pennard Castle gateway
Perched on the top of a valley and overlooking 3 Cliffs Bay in South Wales are the remains of Pennard Castle. To its north and west are the kind of sheer drop that would thwart even a goat, but sadly not sand. It seems the sand blowing up into and around the castle finally led to it being abandoned around the end of the 14th century.
LL273 mono
The vessel Vicky Leigh LL273 at Ferryside, Carmarthenshire. I've not been able to find much out about it other than it seems to have been there since 2014. Processed to add grain, grit and an atmosphere of abandonment. This is one of a series of images I have of the vessel including a colour version of this.
Low Lighthouse 2
This is Low Lighthouse at Burnham-on-Sea in Somerset, UK. Standing on 9 piles, mainly wood but with some metal reinforcements it stands all of 11m (36ft) with the light being at 7m (23ft). It is there to warn seafarers of the dangers of the constantly shifting sands. I am CAA licensed for commercial drone operation.
The Roundhouse mono
Despite the name the Roundhouse is actually hexagonal and was originally a toll house. Located at Stanton Drew in Somerset it is listed as a world heritage site. This image has been created from an original of mine, edited to remove anything modern then converted to mono. The colour version is also available.
The Roundhouse aged
Despite the name the Roundhouse is actually hexagonal and was originally a toll house. Located at Stanton Drew in Somerset it is listed as a world heritage site. This image has been created from an original of mine and edited to remove anything modern. A mono version is also available.
Low Lighthouse seaward
This is the seaward side of Low Lighthouse at Burnham-on-Sea in Somerset, UK. Standing on 9 piles, mainly wood but with some metal reinforcements it stands all of 11m (36ft) with the light being at 7m (23ft). It is there to warn seafarers of the dangers of the constantly shifting sands.
Low Lighthouse landward
This is the landward side of Low Lighthouse at Burnham-on-Sea in Somerset, UK. Standing on 9 piles, mainly wood but with some metal reinforcements it stands all of 11m (36ft) with the light being at 7m (23ft). It is there to warn seafarers of the dangers of the constantly shifting sands.
Proud cockerel
I believe this to be a French Black Copper Marans cockerel. Very inquisitive and they will approach you quite closely if you drop anything nearby - even a blade of grass despite them being stood on grass - they will come to take a look. The eggs are a very distinct chocolate / copper colour.
Looking down Caen Hill
The Caen Hill flight of locks is a major feat of canal engineering twice over - once when it was originally completed in 1810 but later fell into disrepair before being fully restored largely by volunteer fund raising and labour after it was closed to boat traffic in 1951. Overall there are some 29 locks in total on the flight, but this group of 16 are the most famous.
Caen Hill lock 38
This delightful little bridge and lower lock gate on 38 forms a typical canal scene. The Caen Hill flight of locks is a major feat of canal engineering twice over - once when it was originally completed in 1810 but later fell into disrepair before being fully restored largely by volunteer fund raising and labour after it was closed to boat traffic in 1951. Overall there are some 29 locks in total on the flight, but this group of 16 are the most famous.
Looking up Caen Hill
The Caen Hill flight of locks is a major feat of canal engineering twice over - once when it was originally completed in 1810 but later fell into disrepair before being fully restored largely by volunteer fund raising and labour after it was closed to boat traffic in 1951. Overall there are some 29 locks in total on the flight, but this group of 16 are the most famous.
Low Lighthouse
This is Low Lighthouse at Burnham-on-Sea in Somerset, UK. Standing on 9 piles, mainly wood but with some metal reinforcements it stands all of 11m (36ft) with the light being at 7m (23ft). It is there to warn seafarers of the dangers of the constantly shifting sands. I am CAA licensed for commercial drone operation.
English Bluebell
There are several types of Bluebell, the native 'English' Bluebell and a garden escapee Spanish type, confused by the interbreeding of both leading to a series of hybrids. I am of the view this is a native Hyacinthoides non-scripta. One way or another though they remain a thing of beauty. Please note - if you order this image on a coaster it will be cropped to make a sqaure.
Accommodation Bridge
When the canals were built they often quite literally cut through farm land leaving farmers and their animals with the problem if getting from one side to the other. The bridges that were built to overcome this were done so to accommodate the farm needs and hence are called accommodation bridges.
The Swan AKA Mucky Duck
At the Junction of the Trent and Mersey Canal and Coventry Canal you find an icon of the waterways - The Swan. For whatever reason it is known far and wide as 'The Mucky Duck'. This image taken from my 5 metre pole which gives a slightly different view. The boat is registered as 'Cambro' - a 60 ft private narrowboat
Dazzle Ship
Whilst on land camouflage is an attempt to blend in with your surroundings, on sea confusing 'Dazzle' paint was tried. The idea was the whacky shapes and colours caused confusion for the gun aimers. This ship - Edmund Gardner was a pilot vessel and was painted like this by Venezuelan artist Carlos Cruz-Diez as a modern art piece. These days of course the computers do not care what colour the target is.
California Sea Lion landscape
Sea Lions are fantastic swimmers and are also very intelligent. The California Sea Lion - Zalophus californianus have been used by the US Navy for military operations. They have been recorded as diving to around 900ft and can stay underwater for some 9 minutes but more typically stay submerged for just 2 -3 minutes at a time.
California Sea Lion square
Sea Lions are fantastic swimmers and are also very intelligent. The California Sea Lion - Zalophus californianus have been used by the US Navy for military operations. They have been recorded as diving to around 900ft and can stay underwater for some 9 minutes but more typically stay submerged for just 2 -3 minutes at a time.
Tetramorph
Or to give it the full name Christ in Glory in the Tetramorph. It is reputedly one of the largest single piece tapestries in the world, being approximately 24 X 12 metres. It hangs on the north wall of Coventry cathedral and weighs just over 1 tonne. Originally hung in 1962 at the opening of the new cathedral the work was restored in 2015.
Bratch Locks aged
Intentionally a little 'soft' this subtly toned and aged image shows Bratch Locks which are on the Staffordshire and Worcestershire canal and look at first glance to be staircase locks. In reality there is what must surely be one of the shortest pounds (gaps between locks) ever built - each is separated by just a few feet with connected side channels to help conserve water.
Bratch Locks landscape
Bratch Locks are on the Staffordshire and Worcestershire canal and look at first glance to be staircase locks. In reality there is what must surely be one of the shortest pounds (gaps between locks) ever built - each is separated by just a few feet with connection side channels to help conserve water.
Bratch Locks portrait
Bratch Locks are on the Staffordshire and Worcestershire canal and look at first glance to be staircase locks. In reality there is what must surely be one of the shortest pounds (gaps between locks) ever built - each is separated by just a few feet with connection side channels to help conserve water.
Fishing line
The old breakwater at Seaham harbour long ago lost its railings so was closed to the public. These fishermen belong to a private club and I guess one of the conditions must surely be 'at your own risk'. Lacking my ND filter this is a 3 shot merge to blend the calmer portions of sea together.
Penshaw Monument 2
Standing on top of a 136m (446ft) hill above Sunderland is the Earl of Durham's Monument probably more widely known as Penshaw Monument . It is a half size replica of the Temple of Hephaestus in Athens and as you can see here is beautifully lit at night. The moon, whilst there, was not in the place I wanted it to be so has been edited to appear in the location seen here.
Doll Tor and more
Believed to have been built some 3 - 4,000 years ago Doll Tor is a scheduled ancient monument in the Peak district of Derbyshire. As with all things of this age its purpose is speculation though it would seem fair to assume it to have been an important ritual site. The only firm evidence for earlier use is as a burial / cremation site and several cremation urns have been recovered. This image has been digitally manipulated.
Steam governors
These rather large and very shiny metal balls are part of the steam governing system that keeps one of the pumping engines at Claymills running at a constant speed. In a simple process the faster the engine runs, the further the weights move from the centre shaft and this shortens the link between top and bottom, thus reducing the steam supply
Atlantic Conveyor 40106
Originally built in 1960 this locomotive saw many years active running until 1983. Entering service as D306 it became re-branded as 40106 in the 1970s. It was bought for preservation and named as Atlantic Conveyor in honour of the ship of the same name that was lost in the Falklands conflict. It is also a bit of a movie star having been used as the loco in the film 'Buster' about the great train robbery.
Exchanging keys
When a single track running line there needs to be a way to prevent two trains meeting by accident. The simple system of a 'key' that effectively locked the points at the far end was the solution. When the train carrying the key for that section reaches the signal box it is handed over so the section of now clear track can be released. Here you see a key exchange, the train crew have handed over the key for the section just cleared (lower key) and collected the key for the next section. The large hoop made it easier to do this as it passed.
Flying Pig 43106 in steam
43106 'The Flying Pig' is the only surviving example of an Ivatt class 4 steam locomotive and was one of the very last to be withdrawn from the days of steam. Seen here venting steam that is totally obscuring the carriages behind it as it prepares to leave the station. It is for some reason widely known as 'The flying pig'.
Fly agaric 2
A beautiful specimen of a fly agaric - Amanita muscaria. Commonly described as poisonous though there are few documented human deaths from its consumption, and after having been parboiled it is eaten as a food in parts of Europe, Asia, and North America. It has a history of being used for a hallucinogenic experience.
Derwent valve house
In 1946 work was completed to extend the capacity of a dam and reservoir system, about 1 mile to the left of this image is the famous 'Dambuster' dam. It took around 2 years for this section to fill and in doing so it submerged several dwellings and a church as well as some of the earlier works - in this case a valve house. During the dry spell of 2018 water levels are now so low remains of many 'lost' buildings can now be seen.
Derwent down
Taken on a misty afternoon after an unusually long, dry spell in 2018 this reservoir, one of several in the Derwent valley, all but dry at this end. The pipes you see here are normally just a few feet above the water level and in the distance you can make out a few people to give you an idea of scale.
London and the Thames at night
The many conflicting light sources that bid to dominate the city lead to some interesting patterns in the sky over the Thames in London Please note due to the 3:1 panoramic ratio this image is suited to canvas and paper prints but if used on any mug there will significant 'blank' areas top and bottom.
solomons temple sunset
Solomon's Temple is a simple, two storey tower built on the top of a hill known as Grin Low, just outside Buxton, Derbyshire, UK. As is so often the case with these things several versions exist of how it came to be. Just about the one thing people do agree on is that it has never been used as a place of Christian worship - so why 'Temple'
Derby Cathedral
Derby Cathedral is a popular place to visit and regularly holds tower climbs where you may ascend the internal steps and take in the rather spectacular views. From time to time they also allow absailing as part of fundraising activities. The cathedral is also famous for its peregrine falcons and even features a live feed web cam when they are nesting.
Darwin metal sculpture
Darwin is of course known for his theories on evolution but was also a widely respected physician, poet and inventor too. The metal artwork on Darwin Walk shows 4 outlines of him and this image shows botanist (the flower) and poet (the quill). If you look closely under the legs of the quill holding Darwin you may make out the spires of Lichfield Cathedral.
5542 at Shenton run around
5542 is a GWR 4575 Class 2-6-2T small prairie tank engine and is seen here at the end of the line ready to do the runaround at Shenton station on The Battlefield Line. Originally built in 1928 she spent 33 years working followed by 14 years on a scrap heap until being lovingly restored to full working condition.
Red-legged Seriema
This beautiful if somewhat crazy hairdo adorned bird hunts a variety of small prey including beetles, grubs and snakes - dealing with the latter by bashing them into submission on rocks / hard ground. Although it can fly it prefers to run when chasing prey or threatened. This image was taken at Twycross zoo who have given permission for it to be sold.
Elephant love
A mother and 'baby' Asian elephant - Elephas maximus. These two have just enjoyed a mud bath to help cool and cleanse them and the strong bond between mother and baby elephant is clearly evident from the 'trunk holding' seen here. Photographed at Twycross zoo who are happy for my images to be used for sale.
Whitley Bridge
Whitley Bridge - otherwise known as bridge 47 is on the Coventry Canal and is just one of many now disused bridges along the UK canal network. Many of these small bridges were built to accommodate the needs of farmers who needed to get to the other side of the new fangled canal as it cut through their land. This type of access bridge is thus commonly known as an accommodation bridge.
Mermaid's Pool
Mermaid's pool is a natural freshwater pool that can be found in the Staffordshire moor lands. It is always a dark shade of blue, possibly due to the peaty / boggy nature of the soil. At the top of a ridge it is a popular place for model RC plane flying, particularly gliders who benefit from the updraft.
Post mill windmill
Post windmills were once a common sight across the UK being the earliest type of European mill. The distinguishing feature is the whole of the mill itself rotates around a central pole and the brick work you see here is more for covered storage space and to protect the vertical post and supporting timbers from the elements.
Saint Tudno church 3
A rather beautiful and now sadly unused chapel that is now known simply by the location - Great Orme Cemetery. Great Orme Cemetery Chapel was built after the original church of St Tudno's suffered major damage and fell into dis-repair. When St Tudno's was eventually repaired by a local benefactor some years later this building in turn was left to waste away
Bodelwyddan church
St Margaret's at Bodelwyddan is a Decorated Gothic style church in the Vale of Clwyd in Denbighshire and well-known as the final resting place of numerous Canadian soldiers who died in the global flu pandemic of 1918 / 19. With a spire just over 200 feet high it can easily be seen from the A55 which passes nearby.
Blackpool tram
One of several decorated and illuminated trams - this one as a western style locomotive complete with following carriage. Blackpool is a major UK tourist destination and the light show attracts many thousands of visitors each year. Look closely at the front and you can just make out the driver.
Saint Tudno church 2
A rather beautiful and now sadly unused chapel that is now known simply by the location - Great Orme Cemetery. Great Orme Cemetery Chapel was built after the original St Tudno's suffered major damage and fell into dis-repair. When the first St Tudno's was eventually repaired some years later by a local benefactor this building in turn was left to waste away.
Remembrance poppy 1
A single poppy isolated from others in the same shot, a subtle blend of 2 original colour images and several effects layers to create an emotive image that leaves a hint of the surrounding blooms and stems. Proceeds from any sales of this image will be donated to the Poppy Appeal or Royal British Legion.
Remembrance poppy 2
A single poppy isolated from others in the same shot, a subtle blend of 2 original colour images and several effects layers to create an emotive image that leaves a hint of the surrounding blooms and stems. Proceeds from any sales of this image will be donated to the Poppy Appeal or Royal British Legion.
Frog posing
I am lucky enough to live in a place where nature is at home. Frogs are much undervalued as they are veracious predators of garden pests particularly fond of slugs. This is an 'in the wild' image. Frogs and toads are easy to distinguish - frogs have a more pointed nose and hop, toads have blunter noses and 'walk'.
Merchant seafarer's war memorial 2 mono
This is the Merchant Seafarer's War Memorial situated at Britannia Quay, Cardiff Bay, Wales. The artist is Brian Fell and it is in memory of the merchant seafarers from the ports of Barry Penarth and Cardiff who died in time of war. Commissioned in 1994 by the Cardiff Bay Arts Trust it comprises a melding together of a man's face and the damaged hull of a ship. DSD_8031a
Bentley Brook waterfall
Just outside the town of Matlock in Derbyshire there is an unassuming little lane that leads to an amazing place called Lumsdale. Lumsdale was in its day a major industrial area, powered by a series of water mills sited along the Bentley Brook. Long since abandoned, nature is now taking things back. This is Bentley Brook - meandering through the autumn colours, now unhindered.
Merchant seafarer's war memorial 2
This is the Merchant Seafarer's War Memorial situated at Britannia Quay, Cardiff Bay, Wales. The artist is Brian Fell and it is in memory of the merchant seafarers from the ports of Barry Penarth and Cardiff who died in time of war. Commissioned in 1994 by the Cardiff Bay Arts Trust it comprises a melding together of a man's face and the damaged hull of a ship. DSD_8031
Abandon ship
A forgotten wooden boat left to rot almost seems as if it is wanting to keep maybe just a little bit in touch with the sea. Watch House Bay, Barry Island, Wales. Please note this image has been processed to reflect the dereliction of the subject and as such has grain / noise / grittyness.
Wales Millennium Centre
A wet evening provides subtle reflections of the Wales Millennium Centre. The lettering on the front is in both Welsh CREU GWIR FEL GWYDR O FFWRNAIS AWEN - which translates to English as Creating Truth Like Glass From Inspiration's Furnace and in English IN THESE STONES HORIZONS SING.
Merchant seafarer's war memorial 1
This is the Merchant Seafarer's War Memorial situated at Britannia Quay, Cardiff Bay, Wales. The artist is Brian Fell and it is in memory of the merchant seafarers from the ports of Barry Penarth and Cardiff who died in time of war. Commissioned in 1994 by the Cardiff Bay Arts Trust it comprises a melding together of a man's face and the damaged hull of a ship. DSD_8170
Sir Keith Park
34053 Sir Keith Park - a Battle of Britain class steam locomotive with a length of 67 feet and weighing in at over 100 tons. This 4-6-2 light Pacific was one of 110 built-in the West Country/ Battle of Britain Class, for use on the Southern Railway and was built at Brighton in January 1947
Sir Keith Park mono
34053 Sir Keith Park - a Battle of Britain class steam locomotive with a length of 67 feet and weighing in at over 100 tons. This 4-6-2 light Pacific was one of 110 built-in the West Country/ Battle of Britain Class, for use on the Southern Railway and was built at Brighton in January 1947
31806 Mogul steam locomotive
At 63 tonnes and built in 1926 this Maunsell U Class Mogul No. 31806 is seen here about to depart. Treated to a 'wet plate' digital treatment this image has more grit than a budgie cage floor and more grain than a decent sized silo - but rather fitting for such an industrial masterpiece.
Doll Tor stone circle
Believed to have been built some 3 - 4,000 years ago Doll Tor is a scheduled ancient monument in the Peak district of Derbyshire. As with all things of this age its purpose is speculation though it would seem fair to assume it to have been an important ritual site. The only firm evidence for earlier use is as a burial / cremation site and several cremation urns have been recovered.
Fly agaric square
A beautiful specimen of a fly agaric - Amanita muscaria. Commonly described as poisonous though there are few documented human deaths from its consumption, and after having been parboiled it is eaten as a food in parts of Europe, Asia, and North America. It has a history of being used for a hallucinogenic experience.
