"I'm walking backwards for Christmas"

A quote for those Goons fans amongst us

A neat(?) link (as they say in TV land!) that leads me back to ........ Netherton Tunnel on the BCN! I thought that if some of you had read Stephen's comments about the tunnel on this blog you might like to have a bit of tunnel vision!

Photos in tunnels are not my speciality, but for some reason I continue to try to capture that "tunnel moment". Maybe one day I will manage a perfect photo!

Netherton tunnel portalNetherton Tunnel from Windmill End

At risk of boring you I shall briefly repeat its history! it was the last tunnel to be built during the "Canal Age" and opened in 1858. It was intended to relieve the congestion at the Dudley Tunnel and at 27 foot wide, with two towpaths, it allowed two way working.

Air ventAir vent (just!)

These provide light and ventilation and above the tunnel are visible as "pepper pot" like structures and although built in 1858 they allow the use of the modern internal combustion engine fumes.

The tunnel is very wet and waterproofs are recommended, or a good helmsman who can avoid the drips!

end of tunnelReaching the end

This is a closer view of the Tividale Aqueduct and the two towpaths can just be seen. The hydro electric turbine and pipes that supplied its water can be seen more clearly. This turbine powered the electric lights that replaced the gas ones. (Thank you Stephen!)

leaving the tunnelThe Tunnel looking back

aqueductTividale Aqueduct in all its glory!

The cottages beyond the aqueduct are all named with plaques - these are probably the most important residences!

cottagte plaqueNumber 43 for the Lockeeper

Policemans cottageNumber 44 for the Policeman!

 

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