The Creek and Crossing

The story from stepping stones to bridge.

A report of the Canvey Bridge Pile Driving Ceremony
In the Benfleet Gazette of 23rd May 1930
Aerial photos of Benfleet Creek
Interesting views of the creek.
Benfleet Creek
From flow of water to flow of traffic
Building the bridge
Construction of the new bridge to Canvey
Canvey Bridge Pile Driving Ceremony
The first pile is driven in by Essex Lord Lieut. R.B. Colvin on Wed. 21st May 1930
Canvey Island "Life-Line"
The most curious bridge in Essex
Celebrating the new Benfleet to Canvey bridge
Luncheon Menu
Crossing the Creek and Progress in building the bridge
The video shows various vehicles crossing Benfleet Creek and the state of progress in building the bridge.
Frozen Benfleet 1947
Ice floes in the Creek in what was then the coldest winter on record.
New Aerial Photos of Benfleet Creek
Pictures taken by David Hurrell while accompanying his 90 year old father who was taking his first flying lesson.
Official Opening of the Colvin Bridge
Bridge opened on 21st May 1931 by Alderman J. H. Burrows
Recording the changing face of Benfleet : Part Two
Further photos of Benfleet by Tom Scott
Recording the changing face of Benfleet: Part One - Demolition and rebuilding
The photographs of Tom Scott
Speeches at the Bridge Pile Driving Luncheon
These are reconstructions of speeches made on 21st May 1930
Swimming and Boating in The Creek
Family Fun
The Bridging of Benfleet Creek
A welcome end to some forgotten hazards of early motoring.
The Ferry Bell
South Benfleet to Canvey Ferry
The ford between South Benfleet and Canvey Island
Horse drawn wagons crossing The Creek.
The Radio-Active Fango Baths Ltd
A development to terrify
The Thames Barge in Benfleet Waters
Some background information plus a selection of artistic and photographic images
Work progresses on the Colvin Bridge
Building The Colvin Bridge 1930
Working Thames Sailing Barge.
Benfleet Creek c1935.