Bingley, Five Rise Locks, The Leeds & Liverpool Canal 1894

Photo ref: 34748

My gandfather was Alfred Patchett and he was a successful butcher in the making when he opened his butchers shop in Chapel Street, Bingley. I believe it is the road which runs off to the right in this photograph. I have a photo of him standing proudly in the doorway of the shop,only a young man in his early 30s. It looked to be a flat roofed building. My mum remembers as a young girl going to the shop ...see more

The boats in the photo belonged to my great aunt. As a young boy my job (unpaid) was to ferry the boats across the river and pick up any stray boats. I was very small, aged probably 6, could not swim, but there was no health and safety then!! My great-aunt was a very strict Victorian lady. Her motto was "Work comes first". Happy days?

I was so excited to come here - the start of the rest of my life. The night time views over the valley - so many lights - were thrilling. I couldn't wait to get out and walk all round the area, the air was so clear I grew an inch! For the first time I had central heating in my room. So many memories, too many to tell, of new friends and good times and heartaches too! Good old College.