Monday, June 27, 2022

Summer Solstice Walk 2022

 As part of his '52 More' walking project, Blake Morris invited people to walk on the summer solstice, Tuesday 21st June at whatever time was convenient. 

The walking 'score' for the day was created by Melanie Mowinski and participants were invited to interpret the contents of the score as they walked their chosen route at their chosen time. The way these scores can be interpreted in a multitude of ways has fascinated me since I began following and creating them. 

My chosen route on this occasion was a short section of the Leeds - Liverpool Canal, beginning at Granary Wharf, walking west toward Armley. 

To engage with this activity, try to match up some of the lines in the score with what was observed in the images below. What did you notice?



The walking score created by Melanie Mowinski




The final lock gate that opens onto the River Aire




The basin at Granary Wharf, looking towards the final lock gates




Way-marker on the Desmond Family Canoe Trail




Emerging from under the rail track viaduct




Looking back under the main rail tracks entering Leeds Station




Grafitti decorated wall separates the rail tracks from the canal




Four routes line up: The rail tracks, the canal, 
the tow path and the River Aire on the left




Passing under the Monk Bridge Viaduct that once 
carried trains into the old Leeds Central Station 




Sid and Nancy with their six cygnets, 
local celebrities now thanks to Facebook 




Approaching St. Ann Ings Lock Gates




Moorhen family raising their five chicks by the tow path




Beautiful wild teasels, with fully-spent flower heads

 


Gorgeous wooden posts along the tow path




I bet the birds love these berries




Portage this way, don't forget your two-person canoe




Next to the new, there is the old attempting to retain dignity. 
Let's hope it survives




On our return to Granary Square, 
a female mallard duck challenges us to a race




Back at the bridge next to lock no. 2, 
bathed in the lovely afternoon sunshine