Liverpool to Manchester ship canal cruise

[Ged]

Last Thursday 13th October, I was honoured to be in the company of Spike for what turned into a mammoth day on the water, thanks Spike.

The trip, usually on the Snowdrop, but last week it was the Royal Daffodil, was a real eye opener with a lot of isights along the way and nformation provided by our blue badge guide/commentator.

The day started as usual for me, dropping a couple of daughters and workmates off to work and getting to St Anthony's on Scottie Rd to pick up Tony at 9.15am then it was through the Kingsway tunnel to pick up our ferry at Seacombe which was boarding at 9.50.

I took nearly 200 pics during the day and a small selection of them will be here. Here are the first 15.


I had to drag Tony off this screaming at 9.45. I said come on they're all getting on and he bawled 'Nooooo, I wanna nudda go'. It's captaining your own ferry across the Mersey and really should be for kids I think. Only kidding. I mean, yes it is for kids, just kidding about Tony - oh never mind.

http://img441.imageshack.us/img441/7268/2ferrygame2.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/441/2ferrygame2.jpg/)

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And so it was down the gangway to the landing stage, Yippee!!!

http://img12.imageshack.us/img12/7329/7seacombeferrygangway.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/12/7seacombeferrygangway.jpg/)

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A misty and murky Waterfront. Well it is October so we were just glad it wasn't raining. The boat was only half full so we got good specks throughout. It did clear up a lot in the afternoon.

http://img593.imageshack.us/img593/4546/10liverpoolwaterfrontcl.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/593/10liverpoolwaterfrontcl.jpg/)

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Stena Lines 'Stena Lagan' RORO Ferry, built in Belfast and loading up in Birkenhead in the shadow of the Queensway Tunnel ventilation shaft.

http://img94.imageshack.us/img94/8329/14birkenheadshaftirishf.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/94/14birkenheadshaftirishf.jpg/)

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The Mersey dredger which takes silt from the riverbed and later we'd see points along the canal where pipes are attached to its tanks to take the muck which is processed as sand and used in the building industry.

http://img825.imageshack.us/img825/7346/21withmerseydredger.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/825/21withmerseydredger.jpg/)

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Cammell Laird overseeing an oil rig construction and the refit of a Naval vessel. A photo very similar to this (but clearer and from the air) features in the new Liverpool Echo 'Cammell Laird' publication.

http://img14.imageshack.us/img14/4016/23cammelllairdsrignavys.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/14/23cammelllairdsrignavys.jpg/)

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The PetroAtlantic crude oil tanker discharging its load at Tranmere. It then goes by underground pipelines to Shell at Stanlow which in August was bought out by an Indian Company.

http://img847.imageshack.us/img847/6788/25petroatlanticcrudeoil.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/847/25petroatlanticcrudeoil.jpg/)

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The Daf bar. Too early for Magners so we settled for a nice cuppa and a sarnie.

http://img812.imageshack.us/img812/6638/29royaldaffoldilbar.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/812/29royaldaffoldilbar.jpg/)

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Approaching the ship canal entrance just past Eastham.

http://img838.imageshack.us/img838/4937/31approachingshipcentra.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/838/31approachingshipcentra.jpg/)

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The on board local artist who was painting a scene which you could buy raffle tickets for with all the proceds going to Claire House.

http://img20.imageshack.us/img20/2170/33onboardlocalartist.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/20/33onboardlocalartist.jpg/)

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Whilst in the entrance lock, a Ryanair rumbled over, destined for Speke, just across the River from us. It was also an opportunity to capture a shed for Kev, an idea of Tony's.

http://img41.imageshack.us/img41/3691/37ryanairgoingintospeke.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/41/37ryanairgoingintospeke.jpg/)

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We were alongside 'Frank' in the dual lock. As all vessels are she, this one must have been under the knife. She had just come down the canal and was awaiting clearance to leave into the Mersey.

http://img405.imageshack.us/img405/8416/39frankvesselleavingc.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/405/39frankvesselleavingc.jpg/)

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The swell from the rear (no, not haemorrhoids or however you smell it, sorry, spell it)

http://img829.imageshack.us/img829/5738/43thecswellbehindus.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/829/43thecswellbehindus.jpg/)

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The Clyde discharging imported coal which will then make its way to Fiddlers Ferry power station which we will see later. It's mad that it's deemed cheaper to import coal when we have so much still underground.

http://img811.imageshack.us/img811/9301/47clydecoalvessel2.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/811/47clydecoalvessel2.jpg/)

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There were stretches of nothing and then pockets of light industry and some heavy industry. Here is a vessel with that good old British name of 'Wappen Von Flensburg' which is registered in London discharging its cargo on the Riverside of the canal.

http://img26.imageshack.us/img26/9755/50wappenvonflensburgdis.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/26/50wappenvonflensburgdis.jpg/)

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.

[Spike]

Great pics Ged. It was a good day. I have a load of pics myself including one of Ged with an invisible camera ha ha.

For the record, I was winning on the toy boats at Seacombe, Ged was nowhere. I sank his boat 3 times.

[scouse smurf]

Excellent stuff, Ged. You'd have a good day nosing around the Queen Elizabeth Docks at Eastham too, got to work there while on a job placement thing a good few years ago. Didn't have the bottle to go down into the lock gates though, wasn't sure I'd fit !!!

I wouldn't wanna do the Liverpool to Manchester tour, the other way appeals to me so much more

[Kev]

Great Ged,

Would love to do this :)

Kev

[Spike]

I wouldn't wanna do the Liverpool to Manchester tour, the other way appeals to me so much more

Wait till you see the final pics. Its much better doing it Liverpool to Manchester.

---------- Post added at 02:07 PM ---------- Previous post was at 02:06 PM ----------


Great Ged,

Would love to do this :)

Kev

Do it. The tours are done for 2011 now. They start in March again. Its a great day. Have a Yo meet up on one.

[Ged]

Yes, I think the entrance into Salford Quays is much better than just ending at Eastham though obviously the ferry still has to pass our unbeatable Waterfront. Kev, your lads would love it - and so would you adults. Next 15 to follow later, what time does our game kick off Spike. What? - we lost yesterday??

[Spike]

We lost.


Ged I will post a few after you as you go along.

---------- Post added at 03:13 PM ---------- Previous post was at 02:28 PM ----------

I am glad Ged took notice as to me it was floaty things on top of a big Blue Wobbly thing. Anyway here are a few more.


Stena Lines 'Stena Lagan' RORO Ferry.

http://img254.imageshack.us/img254/3581/ms11.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/254/ms11.jpg/)

Looking at Liverpool

http://img231.imageshack.us/img231/9689/ms26.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/231/ms26.jpg/)


Old Crane's on the Mersey

http://img28.imageshack.us/img28/4798/ms23d.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/28/ms23d.jpg/)

Waiting next to a large ship at the Eastham entrance lock.

http://img510.imageshack.us/img510/415/ms31.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/510/ms31.jpg/)

[ChrisGeorge]

Last Thursday 13th October, I was honoured to be in the company of Spike for what turned into a mammoth day on the water, thanks Spike. . . .

There were stretches of nothing and then pockets of light industry and some heavy industry. Here is a vessel with that good old British name of 'Wappen Von Flensburg' which is registered in London discharging its cargo on the Riverside of the canal..

Hey, watch it there, Ged. I had a good friend named Wappen Von Flensburg. Seriously, excellent work, Ged and Spike. I think I might like to take the trip along the Ship Canal sometime.

Chris

[Ged]

The Doris T passing us on canal.

http://img52.imageshack.us/img52/2371/53doristpassesusonc.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/52/53doristpassesusonc.jpg/)

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Canalside staircases like these were spaced along the landside of the canal for access to vessel berthing points to load or unload cargo for the industry at that point on the canal. Sandstone was a large feature of the Wirral along here.

http://img696.imageshack.us/img696/3755/54csideaccessstairs.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/696/54csideaccessstairs.jpg/)

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I don't think there was anyone who wasn't amazed by the next sight. I'd always thought that the canal had land on one side and just a wall separating the canal from the Mersey on the other side but there is actually land on the river side of the canal at this point. The Mersey here is at its widest, that's Hale lighthouse across the way. The farmer has to bring his sheep over on a boat to graze and to shear them. They are free from predators so thrive well.

http://img829.imageshack.us/img829/5093/56sheepgrazingriverside.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/829/56sheepgrazingriverside.jpg/)

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These cattle though were on the land side of the canal. Too much bloody messing getting them across ;)

http://img685.imageshack.us/img685/7029/57cattleonwirralside.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/685/57cattleonwirralside.jpg/)

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Next up is the industry at Runcorn that lay up ahead. We will see a usually unseen feature as well as the bridge at close quarters.

http://img233.imageshack.us/img233/103/58approachingruncorn.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/233/58approachingruncorn.jpg/)

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---------- Post added at 04:46 PM ---------- Previous post was at 03:37 PM ----------

Right, i'm back. I keep getting called out, go here, go there, take us here, take us there.

The former ICI works at Runcorn.

http://img412.imageshack.us/img412/8213/60ici.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/412/60ici.jpg/)

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The Weaver Sluice upstream jetty water level controller.

http://img10.imageshack.us/img10/9841/61waterlevelcontrollers.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/10/61waterlevelcontrollers.jpg/)

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Old dock and lock gate cemetery. They must have made them well in the old days to hold back and seal off all that water.

http://img803.imageshack.us/img803/5278/65dockgatescemetery.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/803/65dockgatescemetery.jpg/)

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Rarely seen until these trips unless of course your worked the canal. The now disused dockers church, surrounded by water on 3 sides.

http://img14.imageshack.us/img14/1701/67churchdisused.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/14/67churchdisused.jpg/)

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Our shipmates photographing the Runcorn Bridge up ahead. Some of these must have taken 500 shots. Anything that moved including birds flying over and even when Tony farted, one trained his camera towards his bum.

http://img571.imageshack.us/img571/9121/71shipmatesphotographin.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/571/71shipmatesphotographin.jpg/)

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The Runcorn bridge coming up.

http://img849.imageshack.us/img849/3830/72runcornbridge.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/849/72runcornbridge.jpg/)

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The steel girder rail bridge built on ornate stone pillars with turrets and the suspended road bridge alongside it.

http://img411.imageshack.us/img411/5364/74runcornrailandroadbri.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/411/74runcornrailandroadbri.jpg/)

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The Runcorn bridge was opened in 1961 to replace the outdated transporter bridge. It's arched span is more than 1000ft and when it was widened in 1977, it was renamed the Silver Jubilee bridge which is now its official title. It is grade II listed.

http://img641.imageshack.us/img641/1451/76runcornsuspendedroadb.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/641/76runcornsuspendedroadb.jpg/)

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Looking over towards Spike Island (how appropriate) where the Catalyst Museum is. If you zoom in, at the bottom of the steep road which runs to the black and white building, you can still see where the old Transporter bridge ran from and its stone ticket office. Built in 1905, it was the very first transporter bridge and ceased to run in 1961 when the new road bridge opened.

http://img200.imageshack.us/img200/2930/77spikeislandwidnes.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/200/77spikeislandwidnes.jpg/)

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http://img38.imageshack.us/img38/1306/78transporterbridgedepa.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/38/78transporterbridgedepa.jpg/)

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[ChrisGeorge]

I can't believe Spike would ever fart. http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2461/3719995457_550e202106_o.gif

[Ged]

He did too!

[Spike]

I can't believe Spike would ever fart. http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2461/3719995457_550e202106_o.gif

I followed through and the camera's went mad. They thought it was a Mersey Goldfish.

[GNASHER]

Went on this trip a few years ago,aged about 14,with the school.Came back by train.Don't know how many other schools were on the trip but it was bl***y mayhem.

[ChrisGeorge]

The Runcorn bridge was opened in 1961 to replace the outdated transporter bridge. It's arched span is more than 1000ft and when it was widened in 1977, it was renamed the Silver Jubilee bridge which is now its official title. It is grade II listed.

http://img641.imageshack.us/img641/1451/76runcornsuspendedroadb.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/641/76runcornsuspendedroadb.jpg/)

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Looking over towards Spike Island (how appropriate) where the Catalyst Museum is. If you zoom in, at the bottom of the steep road which runs to the black and white building, you can still see where the old Transporter bridge ran from and its stone ticket office. Built in 1905, it was the very first transporter bridge and ceased to run in 1961 when the new road bridge opened.

http://img200.imageshack.us/img200/2930/77spikeislandwidnes.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/200/77spikeislandwidnes.jpg/)

http://img38.imageshack.us/img38/1306/78transporterbridgedepa.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/38/78transporterbridgedepa.jpg/)




http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ayKWXAI6cPQ

Stanley Holloway on the Runcorn Transporter Bridge


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E_P_AJXqjcU&feature=related

Contains photographs of the Transporter Bridge.

[Spike]

This was just after Eastham Lock. Any idea what it is used for.

http://img851.imageshack.us/img851/7619/ms34.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/851/ms34.jpg/)

---------- Post added at 07:18 PM ---------- Previous post was at 07:17 PM ----------

Nice views along the way.

http://img694.imageshack.us/img694/6145/ms47.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/694/ms47.jpg/)


http://img69.imageshack.us/img69/7394/ms37.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/69/ms37.jpg/)

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---------- Post added at 07:20 PM ---------- Previous post was at 07:18 PM ----------

Lego Land

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---------- Post added at 07:23 PM ---------- Previous post was at 07:20 PM ----------

The Oil Refinery I think. I did listen sometimes.

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http://img408.imageshack.us/img408/600/ms46.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/408/ms46.jpg/)

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---------- Post added at 07:34 PM ---------- Previous post was at 07:23 PM ----------

Some birds we met

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---------- Post added at 07:36 PM ---------- Previous post was at 07:34 PM ----------

The old lock gates and Kev's shed

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---------- Post added at 07:40 PM ---------- Previous post was at 07:36 PM ----------

Runcorn Bridge

http://img202.imageshack.us/img202/9220/ms72.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/202/ms72.jpg/)

http://img690.imageshack.us/img690/5760/ms76.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/690/ms76.jpg/)

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OK BACK TO GED AGAIN :PDT11

---------- Post added at 07:58 PM ---------- Previous post was at 07:40 PM ----------

Just Adding....I think the Runcorn Bridge looks unsafe, great design, but it looks shady. I never knew so many industries where along the ship canal. The oil refinery, I think they said it was the largest in Europe. Its huge, like a town of its own.

[Ged]

Brill those Tony, it's a good job there were 2 of us as I didn't get some of those :PDT_Piratz_26:

Now we are on the other side of the bridge. These apartments are in Runcorn and up ahead the swing bridge is opening for us.

http://img706.imageshack.us/img706/981/80runcorncsideapartment.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/706/80runcorncsideapartment.jpg/)

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Fiddlers Ferry power station. Remember that coal earlier being discharged from the vessel 'Clyde', well that was heading to here.

http://img41.imageshack.us/img41/8784/82fiddlersferrypowersta.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/41/82fiddlersferrypowersta.jpg/)

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The swing bridge now fully open.

http://img594.imageshack.us/img594/4204/83swingbridgeno1open.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/594/83swingbridgeno1open.jpg/)

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Leaving the power station behind.

http://img204.imageshack.us/img204/8505/84fiddlersferryaswepass.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/204/84fiddlersferryaswepass.jpg/)

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Another high level bridge is cleared.

http://img267.imageshack.us/img267/3882/91lookingbackattheroadb.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/267/91lookingbackattheroadb.jpg/)

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Entering Latchford high level locks.

http://img593.imageshack.us/img593/584/97enteringlatchfirdhigh.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/593/97enteringlatchfirdhigh.jpg/)

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Obviously because land levels fluctuate and canals are flat and cannot run uphill or downhill, Lock systems are inevitably going to be along its route. Notice the water level when entering Latchford Lock and see the waterstaining mark on the inside of the lock walls where the water level rises to then look at the level when we leave. You could feel the ferry rising. It's amazing how this ancient technology has stood the test of time and is still used today.

http://img834.imageshack.us/img834/8440/101latchfordlocklevelup.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/834/101latchfordlocklevelup.jpg/)

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http://img823.imageshack.us/img823/7669/102latchfordlocklevelup.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/823/102latchfordlocklevelup.jpg/)

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Canalside housing. There was a little estate of bungalows along the way, residents coming out to wave, apparently they never let our blue badge guide down. Then there was a row of houses whose back gardens went right down to the swell which almost went over the top of the small wall, i'm sure it must if a tanker came down or two vessels past each other at that point. Here's another little estate at Warrington.

http://img593.imageshack.us/img593/3526/107csidehousing.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/593/107csidehousing.jpg/)

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Everyone will have heard of this if they listen to the traffic and travel on the radio. It's the Thelwall Viaduct on the M6, something i've been across more times than I care to remember, but never under it until now. Notice the two separate carriageways.

http://img577.imageshack.us/img577/5517/111thenorthboundsouthbo.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/577/111thenorthboundsouthbo.jpg/)

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The River Mersey starts at Stockport, meandering down through Warrington on its way and enters the ship canal via a weir which we'll see later. It stays in the canal for a short while then leaves at this point here as you can see. Bye bye Mersey and we haven't even had your pleasure yet as we're only now going to meet you again.

http://img842.imageshack.us/img842/2668/113rivermerseyleavesthe.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/842/113rivermerseyleavesthe.jpg/)

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Well as we hit the good old Mersey (in the canal), the sun came out so we got these silhouettes of ourselves.

http://img41.imageshack.us/img41/383/114shadowsinthesun.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/41/114shadowsinthesun.jpg/)


More canalside industry.

http://img269.imageshack.us/img269/1318/116morecsideindustry.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/269/116morecsideindustry.jpg/)

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A disused and capped off railway bridge at Warburton.

http://img338.imageshack.us/img338/4846/117disusedrailwaybridge.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/338/117disusedrailwaybridge.jpg/)

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Peel Ports operate a container shuttle service at this point on the canal. A vessel called the Daisy Doardo (2nd pic) pushes the barge structure down the canal.

http://img690.imageshack.us/img690/2419/121cntrbargeloading.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/690/121cntrbargeloading.jpg/)

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http://img828.imageshack.us/img828/1476/122thedaisydoardoshuttl.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/828/122thedaisydoardoshuttl.jpg/)

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The last leg of the journey to follow.





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[Lizzie1]

Excellent pics boys.....but I feel a bit sea sick now!

http://www.xs4all.nl/~ernstmul/images/msnbonus/sailboat.gif

[Ged]

This one won't help then Lizzie. Tony had just flushed the toilet, dunno what we hit of his? :shock:


http://img843.imageshack.us/img843/9810/95sinking.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/843/95sinking.jpg/)

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[Spike]

My log was not that big.

---------- Post added at 10:30 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:07 AM ----------

Ged I am very impressed with how you listened and took it all in. I was hopeless and only knew Runcorn Bridge.

Two of the Swing Bridges

http://img32.imageshack.us/img32/7485/ms83.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/32/ms83.jpg/)

http://img6.imageshack.us/img6/7785/ms89.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/6/ms89.jpg/)

[Ged]

Ged I am very impressed with how you listened and took it all in. I was hopeless and only knew Runcorn Bridge.

Well, do you know when you thought I was listening to you....



Ha ha, no, i'm used to it in work, they expect you to hear instructions shouted across to you while you're talking on the phone at the same time.

[Spike]

My Island and Fiddlers Ferry power station.

http://img189.imageshack.us/img189/2695/ms79.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/189/ms79.jpg/)

A Railway Bridge. Amazing how they built things back then.

http://img7.imageshack.us/img7/5431/ms90.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/7/ms90.jpg/)

[Oudeis]

I would like a little more information on these swing-bridges. Are they more massive on a short side? I am more used to seeing the one over the Tyne, which is in the middle of the river. These that are to one side must differ in design, drastically.
I may have to look this up later when I have some time, but if any of you have pics of these bridges when closed...pretty please. :)

[Spike]

Two from rear of Ferry.

http://img189.imageshack.us/img189/6977/ms85.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/189/ms85.jpg/)

http://img850.imageshack.us/img850/1307/ms88.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/850/ms88.jpg/)

---------- Post added at 10:48 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:39 AM ----------

Underneath the Thelwall Viaduct was this tribute to the last British Tommy.

http://img535.imageshack.us/img535/1684/ms93.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/535/ms93.jpg/)




Harry Patch

http://img842.imageshack.us/img842/4163/harrypatch1.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/842/harrypatch1.jpg/)

[Ged]

I would like a little more information on these swing-bridges. Are they more massive on a short side? I am more used to seeing the one over the Tyne, which is in the middle of the river. These that are to one side must differ in design, drastically.
I may have to look this up later when I have some time, but if any of you have pics of these bridges when closed...pretty please. :)

Hi Oudeis, I don't know what you mean by 'are they more massive on a short side' but if you look up ahead here on a pic i've posted previously on this thread, you'll see a swing bridge just as it's opening. So they obviously span the canal as a road when closed then just swing to the side to allow vessels through.

The Tyne bridge, like the Runcorn one is fixed and is high level. Our dock road bridge is Bascule and lifts which is another design altogether even.

http://img607.imageshack.us/img607/981/80runcorncsideapartment.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/607/80runcorncsideapartment.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)

---------- Post added at 11:25 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:53 AM ----------

I've never fully understood the mechanisms of how a lock works, I mean I know what it does but didn't know about the crescent shaped underground culverts which let the water in etc. Here's someone explaining it better than I could anyway.

http://pigpen.org.uk/locks.htm

[chriskay]

I would like a little more information on these swing-bridges. Are they more massive on a short side? I am more used to seeing the one over the Tyne, which is in the middle of the river. These that are to one side must differ in design, drastically.
I may have to look this up later when I have some time, but if any of you have pics of these bridges when closed...pretty please. :)

Looking at the two pictures of the open bridges on page 2, They are centre-pivoted, just the same as one built on a pier in the middle of a river, but half of it swings over land.

[Oudeis]

They actually span, from bank to bank?? Thanks...so much. ;)

OK, thank you again for the picture. Is it rolled back before it turns or does it simply swing? This is the question that yet remains, but worry not. As with a hole in the road...I shall look into it. :)

[Spike]

The bridges swing. As we came near they swung to the bank to let us pass.

I will look through my pics and see if I have any up close.

[Gerard Fleming]

Our dock road bridge is Bascule and lifts which is another design altogether even....


Not anymore Ged, it has been re-enforced underneath and now does not budge..



Gerard..

[Gerard Fleming]

Excellent pics lads... :PDT11


Gerard.

[Ged]

Irlam rail bridge (complete with train coming over it - took some doing asking the skipper to drop anchor for a while you know, till one came)

In the distance are Irlam locks.


http://img13.imageshack.us/img13/4474/123irlamrailbridgewitht.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/13/123irlamrailbridgewitht.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)


The Weir (a low dam) at Irlam whereupon the Mersey enters the canal having meandered its way down from them thar hills in Stockport. Earlier, we saw where the Mersey left the canal to flow down towards Runcorn.

http://img843.imageshack.us/img843/4914/125weiratirlamwithmerse.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/843/125weiratirlamwithmerse.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)


Entering Irlam lock.

http://img192.imageshack.us/img192/6586/128inirlamlock.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/192/128inirlamlock.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)

The massive lock gates and its winding/opening/closing mechanism.

http://img705.imageshack.us/img705/7126/129lockgatemechanism.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/705/129lockgatemechanism.jpg/)

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Irlam lock water level upon entering it.

http://img823.imageshack.us/img823/8814/132irlamlockwaterlevelu.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/823/132irlamlockwaterlevelu.jpg/)

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And the water level upon departing.

http://img404.imageshack.us/img404/8125/133irlamlockswaterlevel.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/404/133irlamlockswaterlevel.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)


To save posting pic after pic of locks, all of which looked very similar, i've spared you Barton locks but here is the new Rugby stadium being built for the Salford City Reds. Barton aerodrome with its light planes taking off is just to our left here.

http://img689.imageshack.us/img689/5474/137salfordcityredsrugby.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/689/137salfordcityredsrugby.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)


Barton Dock Bridge - otherwise known as the M60 - from a perspective not normally seen.

http://img33.imageshack.us/img33/305/138bartondockbridgem60.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/33/138bartondockbridgem60.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)


The Chill Factor indoor ski slope - an angled building as you would imagine is just off to our right and the massive domed Trafford Centre is just up ahead to our right but somewhat shrouded with trees from the embankment so I couldn't get a decent shot.


A double helping of swing bridges here and both used for different modes of transport. First we have the Barton Road swing bridge and then straight after it the Barton aquaduct swing bridge.

http://img16.imageshack.us/img16/6048/139bartonrdswingbridgea.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/16/139bartonrdswingbridgea.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)


Next up were piles of scrap metal bound for Santander in Spain.

http://img684.imageshack.us/img684/6080/140scrapmetaltosantande.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/684/140scrapmetaltosantande.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)


Hitting some more heavy industry now telling us our journey is coming to an end. Cargills who produce and process oils (there's one at Seaforth) can be seen up ahead.

http://img706.imageshack.us/img706/1279/141cargills.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/706/141cargills.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)


The rising road bridge, counter balanced on 4 columns and 1 of only 4 in the country.

http://img834.imageshack.us/img834/3851/142risingroadbridge1of4.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/834/142risingroadbridge1of4.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)


The last leg of the journey into the impressive Salford Quays will follow later today.

[Oudeis]

Looking at the two pictures of the open bridges on page 2, They are centre-pivoted, just the same as one built on a pier in the middle of a river, but half of it swings over land.

23353




Are 'we' saying this is a centre-pivot bridge?

[chriskay]

Yes; your picture and this one seem to show this clearly.

[Oudeis]

Call it a 'Bee-in-the-bonnet' if you will, but I am still unsure. A little unsure anyway. I have the Chester Road bridge in close-up on another page using Google-maps. Could somebody direct me to either of the bridges shown on this page? Pretty please. :)

[ItsaZappathing]

Excellent pics and brilliant posts lads. Well done. :handclap:

[Kevsy]

Good pics,i will get around to doing that cruise one day.

[Spike]

Not sure if these help Oudeis

Barton Road Bridge

Info here http://www.penninewaterways.co.uk/bridgewater/bartonaqueduct.htm

http://img695.imageshack.us/img695/3447/39000164.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/695/39000164.jpg/)

http://img689.imageshack.us/img689/1522/br1f.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/689/br1f.jpg/)

http://img838.imageshack.us/img838/4138/br2m.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/838/br2m.jpg/)

http://img855.imageshack.us/img855/8025/br3l.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/855/br3l.jpg/)

[Oudeis]

Complete with Shed. :)

Yes, thank you Tony. It is that some of the photographs of these (many) centre-pivot swing bridges have there pivot shown at the 'forested' water's edge. Can it be that these too are not banks but island-strips?

[Spike]

The one above is on a strip. But Im certain some swung onto the bank.

[Ged]

I never saw no strip on that ferry all day long. Was it when you went the toilet Tony. I did hear the music :ninja:

[Spike]

I did it for the Captain Ged...But he tried to get me up the funnel..:PDT_Xtremez_42:

[Ged]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2odoQQ54U8A


The noise I heard from the lavo and Tony was gone.

[chriskay]

http://www.bing.com/maps/?v=2&cp=sww12pgsj9qv&lvl=19.389665624780566&dir=86.67933179539605&sty=b&form=LMLTCC

Looking at this, which is where the A49 crosses the canal, the bridge is not quite centre pivoted. Estimating the pivot point, I make it about 100 feet to the left & 130 feet to the right. Since each side of the pivot point must weigh the same, there must be some extra weight to the left.

[Oudeis]

Thank you Chris, this was the point I tried to make earlier about being more massive on one side to retain equilibrium. Ged's a drummer though...i'm sure you understand. ;)

[Spike]

One of the bridges reversed in a bit before it began to swing.

[Oudeis]

This too was one possibility I had considered. It is really sad that with all there is to learn about the ship canal there is no place that lays out the operation of the several different types of bridge along it's length. :(

[Ged]

Anyway..............

Approaching Salford Quays with the Holiday Inn, BBC - Media City and other 21st Century steel and glass up ahead.

http://img198.imageshack.us/img198/9750/143approachingsalford.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/198/143approachingsalford.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)

Wayne Rooney.

http://img21.imageshack.us/img21/710/145rooney.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/21/145rooney.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)

The Goodyear blimp came out to meet us. That's the Imperial War Museum on the right and there's compalints about the shape of our new museum :shock:

http://img713.imageshack.us/img713/4906/146goodyearovercentenar.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/713/146goodyearovercentenar.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)

The Grade II listed Rank Hovis mill with its wheat emblem. Notice the modern swing bridge is open with its roadway leading nowhere but into the dock at the moment.

http://img267.imageshack.us/img267/5281/149listedrankhovismillw.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/267/149listedrankhovismillw.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)


The shiny Quay Theatre complex.

http://img194.imageshack.us/img194/7185/151quaytheatrecomplex.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/194/151quaytheatrecomplex.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)


The last bridge we have to negotiate. Again rising on four columns with weighted slab counter balances.

http://img840.imageshack.us/img840/950/153roadbridgeelevation.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/840/153roadbridgeelevation.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)

Canalside apartments.

http://img689.imageshack.us/img689/5206/155csideapartmentsatsal.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/689/155csideapartmentsatsal.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)


It was 4.30pm now and a long day but we still had 2 hours to kill in Manchester. It seemed so strange to see our Daf in such surroundings. A mighty bit of Liverpool History 35 miles to the East.

http://img708.imageshack.us/img708/6443/157royaldaffodilberthed.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/708/157royaldaffodilberthed.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)


http://img810.imageshack.us/img810/9253/158thedafandgoodyear.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/810/158thedafandgoodyear.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)


Media City area.

http://img850.imageshack.us/img850/5360/163city2.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/850/163city2.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)


The Ferry docked beneath the Lowry outlet Mall.

http://img703.imageshack.us/img703/2369/166ferrydocked.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/703/166ferrydocked.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)

---------- Post added at 07:15 PM ---------- Previous post was at 07:06 PM ----------

Boo hiss.....

http://img195.imageshack.us/img195/4917/167manutd.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/195/167manutd.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)


The Lowry Centre

http://img856.imageshack.us/img856/7642/175lowrycentre2.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/856/175lowrycentre2.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)

---------- Post added at 07:24 PM ---------- Previous post was at 07:15 PM ----------

The media City/BBC area again, from a different angle.

http://img716.imageshack.us/img716/4091/176mediacityarea.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/716/176mediacityarea.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)

Harbour City at 6.30pm.

http://img841.imageshack.us/img841/9566/178harbourcity.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/841/178harbourcity.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)


And that's about it. Hope you enjoyed our day as much as we did. :PDT11

[chriskay]

One of the bridges reversed in a bit before it began to swing.

Now how can that be, I wonder, since there's no significant gap between the fixed & swinging sections of the roadway?

[Spike]

Dunno Chris.

One did though as I watched it do it. came back I would say about 6-10 foot.

[scouse smurf]

Brill stuff Ged and Spike. Didn't take any pics of the bus trip back then ?

[Ged]

What Smurf, from out the window of a fleet of Arivva double deckers coming down the M62 in the pitch black ;)

[Spike]

Great pics Ged.

I will post a few later. Im far too busy at the mo looking for ancestors of a certain person you know.

[Oudeis]

I think the apparent 'pull-back' is an optical illusion.

We're getting there...

http://homepages.tesco.net/frankshackleton/mscbridges/section5/section5.htm

[Spike]

It may be.

We were heading towards it and it did appear to pull back before swinging. Maybe it was the angle I was looking from. We were a bit away from it when it started to move.

[Ged]

It was the angle of the dangle. :PDT_Piratz_26:

[Oudeis]

It may be.

We were heading towards it and it did appear to pull back before swinging. Maybe it was the angle I was looking from. We were a bit away from it when it started to move.

Yes, things are not helped by the fact that these bridges are pivoted off-centre.

---------- Post added at 11:58 AM ---------- Previous post was at 11:31 AM ----------

I am so glad you both made it home in one piece...

http://uk.news.yahoo.com/lamppost-saves-group-being-hit-car-233854389.html

[Ged]

Something must have been said at the outset in that side street to upset the driver.

[ItsaZappathing]

Cracker pics and posts lads. Well done. :handclap:

[Spike]

A few more pics

Houses at Latchford Lock. Maybe the old homes for the Lock Keepers?

http://img820.imageshack.us/img820/8374/ms104.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/820/ms104.jpg/)

On the high seas....Well Canal :rolleyes:

http://img249.imageshack.us/img249/282/ms106.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/249/ms106.jpg/)

---------- Post added at 03:41 PM ---------- Previous post was at 03:39 PM ----------

Just posting this one as I like it. Some nice scenes along the way.

http://img21.imageshack.us/img21/242/ms110.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/21/ms110.jpg/)

---------- Post added at 03:44 PM ---------- Previous post was at 03:41 PM ----------

This is where coal used to be unloaded. The big stone squares would be filled with the coal.

http://img823.imageshack.us/img823/6967/ms117.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/823/ms117.jpg/)


http://img508.imageshack.us/img508/3160/ms119.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/508/ms119.jpg/)

[Kev]

A cracking thread chaps:) :handclap:

[Spike]

I will post a few more tomorrow.

[Norm NZ]

"Fantastic"!! Thanks to all concerned, I really enjoyed my trip along the ship canal.! (and never even left my chair) :PDT11

[atmosferik]

Quality images... Love Liverpool skyline - best ever.

[Spike]

A few more from me

The Mersey entering the canal at Irlam

http://img16.imageshack.us/img16/8514/ms127.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/16/ms127.jpg/)

Barton Dock Bridge

http://img28.imageshack.us/img28/3874/ms145.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/28/ms145.jpg/)

Scrap Metal

http://img853.imageshack.us/img853/8606/ms153.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/853/ms153.jpg/)

---------- Post added at 11:00 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:41 AM ----------

More industry

http://img265.imageshack.us/img265/6310/ms154.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/265/ms154.jpg/)

The rising bridge. Its great watching this move.

http://img594.imageshack.us/img594/9409/ms155.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/594/ms155.jpg/)

http://img822.imageshack.us/img822/2591/ms158.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/822/ms158.jpg/)

[Spike]

Coming towards Salford Quays

http://img41.imageshack.us/img41/9308/ms160.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/41/ms160.jpg/)

The final lock opens and in we go.

http://img713.imageshack.us/img713/9272/ms166.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/713/ms166.jpg/)

The Bridges open.

http://img560.imageshack.us/img560/4568/ms167.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/560/ms167.jpg/)

In We Go.

http://img411.imageshack.us/img411/1376/ms168.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/411/ms168.jpg/)

BBC

http://img651.imageshack.us/img651/6598/ms170.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/651/ms170.jpg/)

Spot the Window cleaner

http://img35.imageshack.us/img35/7774/ms176.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/35/ms176.jpg/)

http://img696.imageshack.us/img696/6156/ms180.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/696/ms180.jpg/)

Man Utd with ducks

http://img443.imageshack.us/img443/4201/ms183x.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/443/ms183x.jpg/)

Our nice little Ferry

http://img594.imageshack.us/img594/3344/ms184.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/594/ms184.jpg/)

http://img594.imageshack.us/img594/2621/ms186.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/594/ms186.jpg/)

Liverpool Ferry, Manchester Footy ground.

http://img805.imageshack.us/img805/854/ms185.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/805/ms185.jpg/)

http://img580.imageshack.us/img580/8601/ms190.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/580/ms190.jpg/)

http://img94.imageshack.us/img94/9115/ms188.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/94/ms188.jpg/)

http://img703.imageshack.us/img703/5387/ms189.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/703/ms189.jpg/)

No matter what you think of Man Utd, every football fan will remember these boys. I once asked my dad where they that good " Yes " he said " They really were the best "

http://img249.imageshack.us/img249/2483/ms198.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/249/ms198.jpg/)

[Ged]

Brill photos Tony. :handclap:

[Spike]

ok these may be of interest.

Salford Quay and docks

http://img59.imageshack.us/img59/313/sal1x.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/59/sal1x.jpg/)

same photo below taken much earlier

http://img97.imageshack.us/img97/484/sal2y.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/97/sal2y.jpg/)

[Ged]

Great them Tony. Peel turned this around with Media City and the like, also took acres of derelict land at Trafford Park and turned it into the Trafford Centre. Great to see what can be done with a bit of foresight and imagination.

[Spike]

Few old ones of the area

http://img718.imageshack.us/img718/7388/sal3d.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/718/sal3d.jpg/)

http://img851.imageshack.us/img851/9403/sal4f.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/851/sal4f.jpg/)

http://img854.imageshack.us/img854/6024/sal5u.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/854/sal5u.jpg/)


http://img836.imageshack.us/img836/9326/sal6s.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/836/sal6s.jpg/)


Ok thats it...Hope you liked them.

Just gotta wait for someone elst to go now.

[Norm NZ]

"Yes! Thank's Spike, I liked them all".:PDT11

[ItsaZappathing]

Great photos and posts lads. Well done.:handclap:

[gregs dad]

Just caught up with these pics,well done Spike and Ged.

[Spike]

If anyone is near Man Utd's ground in the next few days, can you get a photo of the flag at half mast please

:PDT_Aliboronz_24::PDT_Aliboronz_24::PDT_Aliboronz _24:lollollol

[burkhilly]

Those Salford Quays photographs are really something. I never knew is looked so modern.

:handclap: LOL at Man U and Spike's little joke!

[Spike]

Ok here goes

Part 1

http://spikesaycheese.weebly.com/ship-canal-cruise-part-1.html


Part 2

http://spikesaycheese.weebly.com/ship-canal-cruise-part-2.html

Its a lot to get through, but enjoy.

[gregs dad]

Very good Spike

[Norm NZ]

My thanks too Spike, I enjoyed the trip!:PDT11