Show on map Duck decoys were used to trap wild ducks for eating, and one was known to exist here in the 1700s. A channel called a pipe leads away from the lake which becomes narrower with a series of hoops and nets over to prevent the ducks escaping skywards.
Show on map This curious metal frame was actually part of a miniature railway that ran in the park.
The track was raised up on concrete blocks, to allow your legs to dangle over the side, many of these are still in place.
I don’t know the closure date of this, but I’ve only been able to find a single photo of it in action in the 60s on the Communigate website, but there must be other family snaps out there somewhere.
This photo clearly shows the remaining frame which must have served to winch the train off the tracks and into the storage hut, its a real shame interesting things like this have been lost.
Show on map Another away day from Teesside, but theres a Teesside link.
This bridge in Filey was built by Cleveland Bridge in 1894
Show on map Straying a little from Teesside today perhaps, but everyone needs a holiday.
These five roman pilar bases were revealed by a landslip on Filey Brigg in October 1857
They now stand in a flower bed in Filey in the same relative positions as they were found
Show on map A 150ft Olympic themed scarf has appeared on the railing of Saltburn pier, the amount of time and effort required must have been huge but the creators remain anonymous at this time.
 
UPDATE : As of mid-June the knitting has been removed by its creators.
UPDATE : The knitting was returned, repaired and enhanced in time for the Olympics.
Show on map This metal chair records John Burdon, the creator of Hardwick Park in the 1750s
It notes that his fortune was due his fathers mining interests.
Show on map Currently nothing remains of the cold water Bath House other than a row of foundation stones. I believe its the intention of the Friends of Hardwick Park to rebuild it when funding allows.
The information board in the park shows a photo of it complete in 1900.
This chair and screen stand nearby as a reminder of its original function.
Show on map I took this photo last summer, but never posted it as I couldn’t figure out any of the text.
Drove past the same location today to find the wall repainted and the sign lost. Does anyone know what it said ?
UPDATE : I think Bruce is right about Pratts looking at this logo.
I can also make out ‘GH TEST’ as above after that hint.
Show on map The remains of this painted sign can be found on the end of the row of houses at St Johns Well.
There are mentions of a “Moulding Mill” and ‘Hardwoods of every description stocked” but most of the paint is gone now. Does anyone have any ideas about the company and age of the sign ?
UPDATE : At first I thought it could have been “John B Smith & Co” who had a yard in the area, but many thanks to Ian who has come up with some great additional info and old photo which show its “Foster Brotherton & Co Ltd”
Show on map Bishopton castle was built in the 12th century by the Conyers family
It was (and still is) surrounded by marshy ground as part of its defences.
The nearby information board has a reconstuction and a plan of the site.
