FOR a reminder of just what a beautiful place we live in, visit a new exhibition in Golcar.
Snow encrusted sheep stumbling across wintry fields, arresting sunsets amid rocky silhouettes, magnificent views of hills perfectly reflected over waters of glass.
Photographer Andy Leader has captured them all – and more – in his exhibition at Colne Valley Museum.
For the past 20 years Andy has looked after the public footpaths around Holmfirth and has a knowledge and love of the intricate path network nurtured through this lifetime’s work.
Over the past three years Andy has built up a growing reputation as a photographer of that special quality of light and mood found here in the Pennines.
“I’ve worked outside all my life as a woodsman, stone waller, farm labourer, ranger, contractor, footpath officer, guide, photographer and more,” he said.
“Still the turn of seasons, wildlife, light and landscape fill me with wonder.
“For 20 years I’ve been getting to know Holmfirth and the rolling Pennine back bone beside it and my connection with the area inspires my photography.”
Andy also runs photography workshops and leads the Peaty Feet walks over the Pennine hills which inspire his photography.
Andy’s exhibition is open to view at the museum on Saturdays and Sundays this weekend and next from 2pm to 5pm.
And while you visit Andy’s exhibition, have a look around the museum too.
It is housed in a row of weavers’ cottages known locally as Spring Rock and , depicts the life of a handloom weaver around the 1850s—before the huge mills with their power looms were built along the valley bottoms, changing the centuries-old cottage industry forever.
Volunteers demonstrate spinning, weaving, clog-making and other traditional crafts in the original setting.
Museum admission for adults is £2.50, concessions £2 and children (accompanied) are free.
