It’s believed by many that the Hotspur Press building was once the oldest mill in Manchester, long before it became a printing press. Either way, it stood as a ghost of the city’s industrial heritage.
Not too long ago, you could see Instagram ads urging people to “Save the Hotspur Press.” At first glance, it seemed like a grassroots campaign, but a closer look showed the petition was actually started by the development company Manner. Their plan was to prevent the building from being listed as protected, knock most of it down, and replace it with luxury student flats.
On the 23rd June 2025, a fire broke out and tore through the entire building. Thick, dark smoke filled the sky, and a nearby flat’s balcony even caught alight. Thankfully, no one was hurt, Manchester’s emergency services acted fast. This happened just down the road from me, less than 200 yards from my front door. It was crazy to witness up close, this fire had devastating potential.
A lot of people suspect corporate arson, it’s hard not to. Whether or not that’s ever proven, one thing is clear, gentrification in Manchester isn’t coming, it’s already here, and it’s happening by any means necessary.
CTL ASMR ✂️
Feast your eyes and ears upon this - we recently had our good friend and very talented videographer @jacobdavs in to shoot some BTS footage of the lab for our website, he created this super satisfying ASMR video from a selection of the footage, and it also gives you an insight into what happens when we process your film - it’s fair to say we absolutely love it!
The full video is now live on our website (yes we have a website, so please stop calling the lab for prices and turnarounds) make sure to check it out!
Big love CTL 🍄
WE DEVELOPED FILM IN GUINNESS FOR ST. PATRICK’S DAY
This year for St. Patrick’s day, we went for a few pints with our mates at @comethroughlab to shoot three Manchester pubs on a Mamiya RZ67, which we then developed in Guinness.
First up was @mulligansmcr , a proper Manchester Irish pub, known for live music and a great pint.
Then, we wandered over to @thepeverilofthepeak , the historic green tiled pub that’s been part of the city since the 1800s.
Finishing at @oconnellsmcr , in the area of the city once known as Little Ireland.
The black and white film was then developed in Guinness using a Paterson tank, giving the photos a slightly faded, bubbly texture, that makes them feel aged and full of character.
Safe to say, it was a great excuse to enjoy some proper Guinness and celebrate Paddy’s Day with good company.
Sláinte ☘️
Some clips from three tracks I shot for a live session performance by @oscarlwhite and his group in the Rose and Monkey Hotel.
1. Loose Ends
2. Spencer the Rover
3. Debts & Dry Land
It was a pleasure to capture Oscar’s raw and honest sound, loved being surrounded by good folk
It’s rare I get toys for Christmas nowadays, but this was a belter, and where better to test it? 🌅
This cameras functions are super minimal, so it’s nice to be limited and have to work with what you’ve got. Nice reminder the best camera is the camera you have, and limitations can spark creativity 🧨 up the reds!
Happy 30th Birthday to my twin brother, feel so lucky to not only share a birthday with this guy, but to have known him for as long as I can remember!
From Nursery all the way to living together in Liverpool, he’s always been the guy, the original. I watched the movies and played the games that I couldn’t at home at his house, we played footy every day after school, I even helped him do his paper round. Inseparable, joined at the hip, we came as a package deal.
Couldn’t have asked for a better fella to have grown up with, here’s to becoming a pair of old fogies together, love you bro @darkeforest 👊❤️🔥
4 DA MASSES 🚀 DROPS SUN 7TH DEC
4 EARLY ACCESS, LINK IN BIO 🌍
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@jacobdavs 🎥
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