Nessletter - No 149 - 2005

Magazine Overview

This issue of the Ness Information Service Nessletter, number 149, dated November 2005, focuses on holiday experiences from 2004 and reported sightings. The cover headline is 'HOLIDAYS '04'. The ISSN is 0204-7001.

Holiday Accounts 2004

The author recounts their 2004 holiday trip to Loch Ness, which involved accommodation at Abriachan. The journey began with a visit to Neil and Jenette Borland, who owned the old pier. During tidying up, a large cast-iron lid/cover was uncovered. The author settled the ladies (wife Doris and sister Audrey) into their caravan, joined by their daughter Heather.

Several days are described, including visits to Foyers Falls and the memorial stone at Inverfarigaig. The author mentions a geology professor who died at 77 after falling from cliffs. A visit to Dores involved a chat with Steve, who reported that the 'Royal Scot' tourist trips had six strong sonar contacts in August 2004, though nothing was seen on the surface.

The author details their investigation into the cast-iron lid, which was six feet by three feet, set into a six-inch wide surround. It had decorations and bore the inscription 'H. POOLEY & SON, PATENTEES, LIVERPOOL, EE No 315'. Despite using crowbars, lifting it was difficult due to six substantial locating lugs. A cross-shaped structure was visible inside, and the area was filled with fine dust to a depth of almost four feet.

Further entries describe excursions to Drumnadrochit, Inverness, and a rainy day trip to Dornoch. The author met with Andrew Woodford, a NIS member since 1998, who had initiated 'Loch Watch 2000' to promote research into the Loch Ness Monster. They discussed various subjects, including the mystery of the loch.

Other activities included attending the Abernethy Highland Games, observing a micro-light aircraft with floats taking off and landing on the water, and a visit to Nairn. The author also met with Doug Macfarlane and Angus Grant, the latter described as a remarkable character with many anecdotes, who had previously operated a tug boat and was involved with the 'Deepscan' operation.

The holiday concluded with a trip on the Jacobite Princess to Urquhart Castle, despite grey skies and light rain. The author notes the absence of some friends and expresses disappointment at not meeting Dick Raynor. The holiday was generally uneventful, but the author reflects that Doris had not been her usual self, having suffered a heart attack two days after returning home.

Sightings

This section reports on a lack of significant sightings in 2005. However, it details a report from the Inverness Courier on August 19th, 2005, about a family from Newcastle (Mr Nigel Bell, Janice his wife and daughter Sophie, along with brother-in-law John Russell and his wife Margaret) who were staying at a lodge by Foyers. They reported seeing something moving on the water, described as being propelled with white water coming off it, appearing as three ripples. Later, these were replaced by three hump-like features. The object was photographed. John Russell, an aircraft engineer, stated it was strange and not a boat wake. Mr. Bell was convinced it was not a boat wake or wave movement, noting it was dramatically larger than cows in a nearby field.

Steve Feltham examined the photographs and believed the family had captured something significant, stating, "There's been nothing this positive this year." He found no explanation for what was seen.

In mid-October, a brief reference in the 'Courier' mentioned another photograph taken by Robbie Girvan of Loch Ness Caravan Park by Invermoriston. Robbie stated, "I have seen seals and logs on the loch and this was not a seal or a log. I would say it was about four feet out of the water."

The author notes that neither of these photographs appear to have been published in the media.

Editorial and Subscription Information

The author apologizes for the delay in finishing Nessletter 149, explaining that the 2005 holidays had quickly passed. They thank readers for their tolerance and support and invite news or views. Subscription details are provided: UK£3.00, USA$10.00, with the address for The Ness Information Service at 7. Huntshieldford, St John's Chapel, Weardale, Co Durham, DL13 1RQ, and a telephone number of 01388 537359.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are personal travelogues, particularly focused on holidays and experiences around Loch Ness, and the reporting of alleged sightings of unidentified phenomena, including the Loch Ness Monster and potentially other aerial or aquatic objects. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded reporting, presenting witness accounts and photographic evidence, while also maintaining a degree of skepticism and seeking rational explanations, as seen in the analysis of the Bell family sighting. There is a clear emphasis on documenting the ongoing mystery of Loch Ness and encouraging reader participation.