Ness Information Service

Magazine Overview

Title: Ness Information Service
Issue: No 50
Date: February 1982
Publisher: Ness Information Service
Country: UK
Content Type: Newsletter/Magazine focused on the Loch Ness Monster and related phenomena.

Rip's Piece

The editor begins by thanking members and acknowledging letters received. A significant portion of the editorial is dedicated to a letter from David James, who takes issue with the editor's previous assessment of the Loch Ness Investigation (LNI) efforts, particularly regarding surface photography. James argues that the LNI expended considerable energy on surface photography not without results, but rather as a necessary means to secure sponsorship in the early days. He points to ATV sponsorship in 1962-63, Observer support in 1964, and other private subscriptions as evidence of its success in gaining attention. James defends the LNI's approach, stating that while results might have been 'meagre and disappointing' to some, they were vetted by the RAF's JARIC and included film sequences that positively identified the creature for many. He credits the persistence of surface photography with bringing in new operators like Rines and Shine, laying the groundwork for later underwater investigations.

James also addresses the editor's comment about the LNI not keeping the Council informed, calling it 'totally misleading'. He asserts that the LNI received utmost assistance from Inverness, including a grant from the HIDB. He emphasizes his stepfather's role as Convenor of the Argyle Planning Committee and his own position as an MP, suggesting they would not have neglected planning permissions. He clarifies that Achnahannet was already a recognized campsite, and initial caravan placements did not require planning permission. Planning permission only became an issue in 1966 when they wished to leave caravans on-site over winter, which was approved. Further approvals were granted for site improvements. He notes that the County Planning Authority's policy to eliminate caravans between the road and the loch was eventually implemented, but the LNI was granted stays of execution, allowing them to continue surface watching for a decade. James concludes that the Local Authority was cooperative and that all parties were kept appraised of their plans.

The editor expresses high regard for David James, acknowledging him as a founder member of the Loch Ness Phenomena Investigation Bureau (LNPIB) and crediting him with much of its success. The editor reiterates that his intention was not to diminish the efforts of the LNI or James, and agrees that James is correct regarding planning permission. However, he maintains that his own experiences with the LNI revealed influential local people who were anti-LNI, leading to occasional incidents.

Regarding surface photography, the editor agrees with James's position, stating that it was the only alternative initially. He acknowledges the LNI's perseverance and their role in bringing the investigation to the attention of the scientific establishment. While acknowledging that results were obtained, he felt they were not sufficient to identify the creatures, which was the goal for many LNI volunteers. He concludes that the LNI did invaluable work as a focal point for interested parties.

More Letters

Peggy Gerba (Tucson, USA): Briefly describes a pleasant visit to Loch Ness in September 1980, noting the abundance of trees and the size of the loch. She suggests that if no 'nessies' are reported, large eels might be a plausible explanation, though 'young animal' reports exist in some books.

Valerie Smith (Reading): Enclosed a letter with her subscription. She is taking a year off university due to illness and hopes to spend much of it at Loch Ness. She has shifted her theory from plesiosaurs to the giant eel theory.

John Gaughan (East Dulwich, London): Discusses a TV piece about Mr. Wignall and offers his views on the creatures, leaning towards the 'sea-serpent' idea, suggesting they are evolved plesiosaurs. He has not visited Loch Ness but recounts a second-hand report from his grandmother in Co. Mayo, Ireland (August 1978) about an incident fifty years prior where a neighbour saw a 'water-dog' or 'water-horse' rise from a local lake.

P.V. Gaughan (Dudley, West Midlands): Suggests a DIY approach to underwater investigation using a reasonably priced TV monitor, light source, electric propeller, and stability system, powered by a 12-volt battery, to be deployed from the loch-side.

Bill Paintin (Salisbury): An ex-LNI member recalls the camera station at Strone Point and a piece of graffiti stating, "The Loch Ness Monster is a psychic phenomenon". Paintin, a student of the paranormal, believes it will eventually be accepted by science and suggests Ted Holiday's "The Dragon and the Disc" might be relevant.

Roland Watson (Glasgow): Offers a metaphysical explanation for the Loch Ness creatures, finding the variety of reported forms too extreme for a single animal. He suggests multiple species or a creature undergoing extreme metamorphosis. He believes the creatures are alive and breathing, created from the 'dusts of the Earth', and that their existence is linked to infinite energy fields, similar to UFOs.

Mrs McNish (Sunderland): Reports a sighting of an animal in September '79 and mentions that some people believe the Loch Ness monster can be conjured by psychic power, a possibility she entertains due to her own psychic inclinations.

The editor announces an increase in subscription prices due to rising postal charges: UK £2.50 per year, North American $9.00.

Constance Whyte Tribute

Nicholas Witchell writes a tribute to Constance Whyte, who died in hospital in Sussex on January 24, 1982. He states that her book, "More Than A Legend," published in the late 1950s, was instrumental in inspiring the modern phase of the Loch Ness inquiry and brought serious attention to the mystery. Whyte's work is credited with provoking questions in the House of Commons and leading to the major expeditions of the sixties and seventies. Witchell highlights her invaluable advice and encouragement in the preparation of his own book, "The Loch Ness Story," and praises her book as the best and most stylish written about the mystery. He notes that "More Than A Legend" is now a collector's item. Whyte's motivation for writing the book was "the vindication of many people of integrity who had reported honestly what they had seen in Loch Ness." Witchell expresses deep sympathy to her husband Frank and children Andrew and Jean.

Sightings

Gordon Sutherland (Abriachen): Reports that creature sightings seemed more frequent in the past year than for some time. He mentions an incident involving an Edinburgh man who had a frightening experience, a baker from Drumnadrochit who saw one, an old lady from Lochend who saw one, and David Bead and two others who were surprised by three creatures near Dores. Someone also took photographs of something, but only a wake was visible in the prints.

Sydney Wignall: Sent a letter and photos. He was scheduled to appear on the BBC program "Blue Peter" on February 22nd. He has used Microlite aircraft and conventional planes for expeditions. Wignall proposes future schemes including shooting a sonar beacon into a beast for tracking and using a two-seat Microlite to land on the water for close-up underwater filming with specialized camera equipment. He is confident in the safety of these methods.

Dinosaurs

A news clipping about an expedition by Mr & Mrs Regusters in the Congo is mentioned. They returned with 23 rolls of film and a second tape recording of an animal's roar, the identity of which is unknown. Mrs Regusters reported seeing an animal resembling a small brontosaurus on a lake, but the photographs were underexposed due to camera malfunction caused by heat and moisture.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The newsletter consistently focuses on the Loch Ness Monster, presenting a platform for members to share their experiences, theories, and historical accounts. The editor, 'Rip', appears to be a proponent of continued investigation and documentation, valuing historical perspectives while also embracing new technological approaches. There is a strong emphasis on the historical significance of early investigations like the LNI and the contributions of key figures such as David James and Constance Whyte. The editorial stance is one of open inquiry, acknowledging various theories from scientific to metaphysical, while maintaining a commitment to uncovering the truth behind the phenomenon. The newsletter also serves as a communication channel for the Ness Information Service, providing updates on subscriptions and contact information.