At the beginning of 2023 I made the decision that I would visit the north end of Crummock Water once a month. I was principally interested in photographing a pair of trees that grow in close proximity to each other and, depending on the angle of view, they can appear as one. Over the years I have referred to them as the ‘lone tree of Crummock Water’ and for 2023 it was to be a mini project for me to work on.
However, only a few weeks into the year, I discovered that there were plans by United Utilities to return the lake to its original state, with the removal of the weirs, paths and concrete walls.
Once the work starts it is anticipated that there will be a considerable impact to the natural features with a significant drop in the level of the lake and much of the area I believe will become waterlogged. The appearance of the lake will change quite dramatically and so my project became quite important to me.
I have been visiting Crummock Water for many years and have spent the last decade photographing at the lake shore. I’m unclear as to how the work by United Utilities will alter my experiences and photographs in the future, but this series of images will remain as a reminder of a place that is very dear to me.
As well the images here on my website, I have compiled a book of over 50 photographs that I have had printed as a personal keepsake.
