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Why Clapper Bridge?

First Memories

My first memories of Clapper Bridge are from when I was young - very young. As my parents didn't have much money when I was growing up, we often went for walks around the local area - this probably helps explain my love for the outdoors. Clapper Bridge is located about 5 miles outside of Pillaton, which in turn is about 10 miles from Saltash, my home town for the first 25 years of my life.

The North West side of the bridge (10th September 2003)

As a child, Clapper Bridge had one major appealing factor - water. It was a special treat to be taken there for a few hours. We would park between the trees next to the bridge and, wearing my plastic wellington boots, I would paddle in the shallow water at the edge of the river and throw sticks in. There are some steps which, whilst appearing to serve no useful purpose, were a place for watchful parents to sit and supervise. I also have a vague memory of being there with my maternal Grandparents, but cannot remember any more than that.

Looking downstream from under the arch (10th September 2003)

Now I've moved away, each time I visit my parents who still live in Saltash I always make a point to go there and take some photos. It has taken a long time and several trips there to start taking photos I am happy with, which I think makes it even more appealing - it's a challenge!

The more popular South East side of the bridge (19th April 2003)

My Mother often asks me why I bother to go there. I just reply that I like it because it is so difficult to take a good photo of it. But having written this, I think that maybe my like of this place runs deeper in that I have good childhood memories of it.

Looking upstream from on top of the bridge (19th April 2003)

These pages are the result of many trips in all types of weather - rain, floods, sun and drought.