Nessletter - No 144 - 2003

Magazine Overview

Title: NESS INFORMATION SERVICE NESSLETTER
Issue: 144
Date: January 2003
Publisher: NESS INFORMATION SERVICE
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English

This issue of the Nessletter delves into several intriguing topics, primarily focusing on photographic evidence related to Loch Ness, debates surrounding prominent figures in the field, a significant fossil discovery, and a historical anniversary.

Loch Ness Photographs and Analysis

The lead article, under the heading 'PHOTOGRAPHS', examines a series of four photographs published in The Daily Mail on Saturday, September 7th, 2002. These photos, taken by Roy Johnston at Loch Ness, depicted a 'neck-like' object and a large splash. The article meticulously describes the visual details of the photographs, noting the object's shape, curvature, and protrusion from the water, comparing it to a swan's neck or an inflated inner tube. Roy Johnston, a retired printer, recounted his experience of seeing the object surface and then vanish with a splash. Initially, he likened the shape to an elephant's trunk or a large conger eel.

The article also critically analyzes the photographs, pointing out discrepancies such as the splash being disproportionately large compared to the visible object, suggesting it might indicate something more substantial than what was seen. It mentions that researchers investigated the site, using satellite positioning and Ordinance Survey maps to establish the exact location and angles, concluding the object was about three feet high and close to the shore. The author questions Johnston's decision to scramble down to the water's edge, implying it might not have been for a simple photograph.

Further skepticism is raised regarding a photograph of Urquhart Castle, supposedly taken the day before the Loch Ness object photos. The article notes the presence of bare earth around the castle buildings, which contradicts the timeline if the area was turfed over in early July, as suggested.

Correspondence and Debates

A significant portion of the newsletter is dedicated to correspondence, particularly a letter from Erik Beckjord and the editor's response, along with a letter from Cdr. A.G.W. Bellars. Beckjord's letter, received in December, responded to a previous article about his 'Wind up Message' and his views on Tim Dinsdale. The editor addresses Beckjord's assertion that the editor is biased against non-British theorists, defending the space given to Beckjord's ideas in previous issues. The editor refutes Beckjord's claim that Tim Dinsdale suppressed his 'paranormal' theories due to financial concerns, calling the term 'unemployed' impudent. The editor recalls Tim Dinsdale's offer to proofread the Nessletters and highlights their long-standing correspondence, expressing certainty that Dinsdale's views did not fundamentally change.

Cdr. A.G.W. Bellars, OBE RN, also writes, strongly disagreeing with Erik Beckjord's interpretation of Tim Dinsdale's work. Bellars states he met Dinsdale in 1974 and knew many prominent figures in the field, including Bob Rines and Alex Campbell. He asserts that Tim Dinsdale was always searching for 'Beasties,' meaning real animals, in Loch Ness, not paranormal phenomena. Bellars confirms that Tim's wife, Wendy, also stated Tim was looking for real animals, and that zoology might not have all the answers, citing the Coelacanth as an example.

The editor reiterates his belief that Erik Beckjord is mistaken in his interpretation of Tim Dinsdale's motivations, suggesting a misinterpretation during a brief visit. The editor also touches upon the author Ted Holiday, noting that while Holiday embraced the 'paranormal,' Tim Dinsdale remained focused on finding 'real animals' until his death.

New NIS Member and Sightings

Jared Christie, a new NIS member living in the Loch Ness area, writes about his move and his ongoing 'Nessie watch.' He recounts an episode where he observed three 'humps' in the water near the Clansman Hotel, which initially appeared to be large rocks but then moved. To his surprise, they turned out to be young swans (cygnets) feeding with their heads submerged. Christie notes that a casual observer might mistake such a sight for a Nessie sighting. He also mentions seeing 'floating Herons' at Foyers, which he considers to be large birds that could also be mistaken for something unusual.

Fossil Discovery: Plesiosaur

The newsletter reports on the discovery of fossilised remains of a Plesiosaur near Filey, East Yorks. Nigel Armstrong, a fossil hunter, found the near-perfect skeleton, which is believed to be a new species. The Plesiosaur, measuring five metres long with four flippers, lived approximately 132 million years ago. Dr. Phil Manning of the Yorkshire Museum highlighted the significance of this find, as it fills a gap in the fossil record for Plesiosaurs during a period previously thought to be devoid of their remains, calling it a 'missing link'.

Anniversary: John Cobb's Speed Record Attempt

The issue commemorates the fiftieth anniversary of the death of John Cobb, who died on September 29th, 1952, while attempting to set a new water speed record on Loch Ness. His boat, 'Crusader,' powered by a jet engine, had achieved a speed of 206 mph on its first run. During the return run, the boat encountered turbulence, possibly from a residual wake, causing it to crash. The article details the tragic event, mentioning differing accounts of whether Cobb was alive or dead when recovered. The community of Drumnadrochit and Inverness mourned his loss, with a memorial erected in his honour. The community also held events to mark the anniversary, including an exhibition and a service on the loch.

Editorial Notes and Subscription Information

The editor, R.R.Hepple, concludes by thanking NIS members and providing updated subscription information: UK£3.00 and USA $10.00. He also provides the postal address for correspondence.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of photographic evidence for cryptids, particularly the Loch Ness Monster, the ongoing debate and interpretation of historical figures and their research in the field, the intersection of paleontology and popular interest in prehistoric creatures, and the commemoration of significant historical events related to Loch Ness. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious skepticism regarding extraordinary claims, favouring rational explanations and evidence-based analysis, while also acknowledging the enduring mystery and public fascination with phenomena like the Loch Ness Monster. The editor emphasizes a search for 'real animals' rather than purely paranormal explanations.