I first visited Guardbridge in May 2009, not long after it closed - it was a lovely mill to visit, absolutely mint. Now, though, it's quite different - 9 months in the hands of the receivers have not been kind. I'll put before and after pictures when I can work them out.
First, the power plant - this is one of the parts that will be retained as it's a listed structure.
Next, the former turbine house next door.
With some interesting stuff left behind - some models and old pictures, plus stacks and stacks of plans.
Next, on to the dandy roller store - the dandy roller is what puts the watermark on to the paper.
Onto the paper machines - first machine no. 3.
Then down the stairs to machines 4 and 5 - and one machine has gone.
May 2009:
February 2010:
The drying drums have been stripped out, and are scattered about.
Despite appearances, these machines aren't being scrapped - they're being packed and shipped to Egypt.
The main ofices were sealed up tight last May - now they're open, and completely stripped apart from some photographs and promotional materials.
Down on the ground floor is the front desk, the mill shop, and an award.
