Friday 29 January 2016

These Boots Were Made For Walking: Wyming Brook and Rivelin Valley


On the western outskirts of Sheffield, bordering the Peak District is an area riddled with footpaths and bridleways ideal for walking any time of year. Lodge Moor is easily accessible and marks the gateway to Wyming Brook, Redmires and Hallam Moors.
In a slight change to my usual walking habits I elected to go for a linear walk going from Wyming Brook down past Rivelin Reservoir then along Rivelin Valley. Most of the time I prefer a round walk with a convenient start/finish point but good transport links at both ends of this walk make a linear route a good option.
Although the colours are more subdued and the lighting pretty flat at this time of year the raised water levels causing the brook to rush along at a fair pace adds a dynamic counterpoint to the tranquility of the woodland and I found myself spending a lot of time just watching the water rush by.
There are pubs at both ends of the route should refreshment be needed along with cafes at Rivelin, Malin Bridge and Hillsborough. I can recommend the Base Camp Cafe in Towsure, I had a large sausage butty and large mug of tea for £3.50, just the job after an afternoons rambling.








Thursday 21 January 2016

Optical Delusions #1

According to the saying, "the camera never lies" but thanks to the wonders of the modern digital darkroom you can make an image say anything you like. With practice, patience and imagination it's never been easier to portray the world as you see it... or would like to. In this occasional series I aim to bring you some of my own humble efforts.
Live music has always been close to my heart and proves to be very challenging as subject matter but the results are that much more rewarding for it. Here's four shots from the fantastic Beautiful Days festival.

Mad gypsy skiffle with Hobo Jones and the Junkyard Dogs

Ska in the Summer sun with Ranking Roger and The Beat


The Houndogs rocking up the bandstand


Ken Bonsall fronting Ferocious Dog in the big top

Sunday 17 January 2016

Fargo Railroad Co. @ The Old Crown with The BearCats


First up on my gig calender this year are two of Sheffield's finest bands at the Old Crown on London Road. Since opening as a live music venue in 2014 the Old Crown tends to feature mostly cover bands so it shows great confidence in booking an original band like Fargo Railroad Co.

Support tonight comes in the form of The BearCats, a three piece rockabilly / rhythm and blues act. Being biased towards classic rock 'n' roll its always great to see these guys and it was a bonus to hear some original songs this time around along with their set of well chosen covers.


After refuelling at the bar and chat with some of the good natured folk this kind of event attracts we staked out a good spot front and centre. Fargo Railroad Co. came on to deliver typically brilliant set of southern rock and americana that is attracting more followers and critical acclaim wherever they play. Fargo's songs range from deeply poignant to great fun with rousing verses to drink along to, all delivered with an accessible sound that makes you feel instantly comfortable with the band and up for a damn good time.


 Thanks to all concerned for a great night. no doubt I'll catch you all again soon.

Handy links - The Old Crown Inn : Fargo Railroad Co. (FB) : BearCats (FB)

Saturday 16 January 2016

It's Been A While....

...a bloody long while to be accurate. Noticing that it's been around six months since I posted any new content here makes me realise how much I had been letting things get to me of late. It's time to put the health issues behind me and get my shit together.
When your activities get restricted or even prevented for a while you soon realise how much you take things for granted. I have an awesome family, great friends and the good fortune to meet good people pretty much everywhere I go.
This blog is getting a long overdue reboot. Come along and walk A Mile In My Boots for a while, you might find something you like.