Wild Is The Wind - Johnny Mathis

The most outstanding feature of today has been the wind, even before springing out of my hammock this morning it was rattling the windows at an estimated 30 to 40 knots. The sky was again heavily leaden, making me think there had to be some accompanying rain but except for a passing shower it remained dry. Local patches were once again lacking in bird-life, and as it's been nearly a fortnight since last visiting Portland where else better to go?

On my way to the bus I bumped into 'great mate' Peter Smith who I will endlessly describe as Weymouth's Mister Music. We have shared a good few gigs together and while he'll always deny it (modest to a fault) his guitar playing is certainly among the best that Dorset can boast.

Great to see you again Smudge!

Before we had chance to part company, another long standing mate Fiona Penney appeared from her shop Sunflowers in St Thomas Street, Weymouth. Bedecked in Holly she was unable to stop for a chat, busily preparing for the Christmas rush, but feel sure we'll catch up in the New Year. I have no idea how long this shop has been in existence but do recall being one of the very first customers (if not 'the' first), but have never been disappointed with either product of service.

Wishing you a profitable run-up to Christmas Fiona!

Alighting the bus at the Bill car park was like walking into another world, as when we think its windy in the relative shelter of the conurbation, its blowing a 'hooligan' out here. Looking toward Pulpit Rock the

waves were certainly crashing in

but difficult to portray the 'full force' with just a tiny camera.

Looking east towards the Lighthouse and Bird Observatory it barely looked as though there was a storm at all, but

taking a closer look at Pulpit the waves were dashing the rocks

while the Spume gave the impression of a snow-storm.

My departure from the shelter of the Obelisk was the moment the flash rain shower arrived getting me a little damp, but sanctuary was quickly sort in the lee of the Lighthouse Pumping Station.

Lingering there to try a short 'sea watch' (for birds) I could not believe the approach of a small boat, regardless of its power, on such a day. I will proceed cautiously as they may have been there on some 'life or death' mission, but if not under such conditions their action could, at the very least, only be described as foolhardy.

Difficult to say, but they simply seemed to be 'joyriding' however given the construction of the vessel and the very expensive looking 'immersion suits' I formed the idea they were something to do with the Olympics, Security or some-such.

Either way, in my humble opinion, if it were not a life-saving venture then this was neither the day or place for such a craft.

Heading directly into both wind and sea and attaining such angles

could be catastrophic if that 'freak' gust should arrive,

not to mention travelling at high speed

then crashing back to the surface. The 'thud' generated by this plunge could be heard loud and clear from where I was stood maybe a mile away and what followed sounded like engines stalling and a period of foundering.

Underway again they soon reached Bill Point, and the full force of the weather,

which seemed to deter them from continuing that course, forcing them back on a reciprocal. If ever there was a possibility of 'broaching' this manoeuvre was it, and while I don't know who these people are, my intent is to find out. If indeed this craft is funded by the tax payer or Public Purse then a few questions need to be asked, if it is not then NO WORRY! - except of course for those such as the Royal National Lifeboat Institute or Air Sea Rescue who would risk their lives to pick up the pieces!

A coffee at the Observatory changed the picture a bit and while doing so Martin (The Warden) picked up a passing Great Skua in his telescope which was quite close to land giving me a reasonable view. In addition there were a few Guillemot & Razorbill and even more Gannets, while on the way back to the bus

these 2 Ravens flew into one of the horse paddocks

and started feeding. With the wind now behind me, I fair flew up Bill Hill but it seemed like

this Kestrel, atop a telegraph pole in Southwell,

had to keep a 'low profile' just to cling on.

While I am about the nearest thing you could find to perfect 'Bah Humbug' at this Festive Season, I do like to see the odd illuminated Christmas Tree like this one in the village. Unfortunately, once again the camera doesn't quite show the full effect of the fairy lights.

Managing to secure 'poll position' on the upper deck of the bus home has many advantages, and by pure coincidence, "who's that up ahead, having just walked out of the National Sailing Academy"?

The 2 Herbert's from the speed boat off the Bill if I'm not mistaken,

looking very much pleased with themselves. Mistaken? No, by magnifying the picture its quite clear this is who they are. I'll keep you posted!

In addition you can view the progress being made on the new extension of the

Fleet & Chesil Beach Visitor's Centre, the cement foundations already look as though they are in place and set hard.