Thwaite Mills

We  ( The Kirklees Branch ) met the Bus Pass Walkers in Leeds,  to walk along the Aire and Calder Navigation to Thwaite Mills, where we met up with our Calder Valley Branch, Midgehole Dave and his wife Bezzie Pet.
Couldn't have wished for better weather.  Sunny, not too hot, and a gentle breeze.

We have visited Thwaite Mills a few times, but today, after lunch, we had a guided tour.   So much better when things are explained to you.

Although there has been a mill on this site since 1641, the present buildings were built between 1823 - 25.
From 1923 until it closed in 1976 putty became the mills main product.
However in 1872 when the Hornes took over, china clay from Cornwall , which along with flint, was made into a glaze for Leeds Pottery.

We have visited Charlestown in Cornwall, where the china clay was loaded on to  boats, and shipped all the way to Goole, and brought up the Aire and Calder Navigation to the mill.

The collage shows one of  the mill wheels which is still turning, although now just for show.
The old range in the mill managers house, which brought back memories to some of the walkers.
Also the very impressive new moveable weir. which we walked over.
This is part of the Flood Alleviation Scheme for South Leeds.
The last photo is of Yorkshirebred and friend, Ralph! 
  He joined us for refreshments which we had before catching our respective buses back home.

Thanks to everyone for another very enjoyable day out.

Last night was our monthly wine club meeting.
Thought you would like to meet our newest and youngest member.
Little I.  He is only 8 weeks old.    Nothing like starting  them young !!