Worcester to Diglis Bridge



Walking this loop, once downstream and then in reverse, provided me with a good understanding of this small, but busy section of the river. The stretch is dominated by Worcester Cathedral and the reasons for its proximity to the river requires further investigation. It could be an indication of the river’s importance within trade that helped fund the cathedral. but being near a main transport artery must have helped in the delivery of the raw materials in its construction. It is the site where the remains of the ‘Cockleshell Pilgrim’ (assumed to be one ‘Robert Sutton’) where discovered. The account of his pilgrimage, written by Katherine Lack (https://spckpublishing.co.uk/cockleshell-pilgrim-pb) initiated this entire project. I made some work inspired by this story for the ‘Enchanted Environments’ symposium at the University of Worcester, which can be seen here: https://ardillustration.com/the-cockleshell-pilgrim.




There are several small platforms at the water’s edge that suggest crossing points along the river, which is relatively narrow when compared to how vast it becomes further downstream. This must have been a busy hub of trade and transportation with vessels constantly criss-crossing. Quite a contrast to today’s swan dominated scene. I passed modern flats, a canal basin, Diglis Island and crossed the striking Diglis Bridge. It’s a busy promenade. If I sat for a while on one of the benches, I could capture the faces of dozens of people (and dogs) that were enjoying a walk. It was the island and construction site for a weir bypass that provided the most interest for me. The rusting signs of industry on the island contrasting with the modern day construction site. I made this drawing of a crane, which I believe was installed on the island in the 1950s.


As mentioned, the weir bypass is one of several such projects that aim to help the migratory routes of fish such as the Shad: https://www.unlockingthesevern.co.uk/unlocking-the-severn-for-shad/. This subject would certainly lend itself to an illustrative response. Communicating the diversity of species within the river and threats they face is something I’m exploring when working in my illustration studio.

Salmon_Andy_Robert_Davies

Shad_Andy_Robert_Davies

The themes of migration and ecology also link to two research projects that I’m involved in with colleagues at the University of Worcester, ‘Migrations’ and ‘Sea Change’.




Location: Diglis Island, Worcester WR2, UK

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