The ancient priory at Bolton Abbey has witnessed many worse winters than one we’re currently in the grip of. But seldom have I known it as cold in this part of Wharfedale as last Friday when I took this shot. An icy wind lashed the lovely old building and my lonely footprints were covered within seconds. Earlier in the year I was further up the Wharfe at the great river’s source, learning more about life in this bleak landscape. Read all about the characters who have managed to eke out a living here in January’s magazine which will be in the shops on December 23.