Nessletter - No 159 - 2012

Magazine Overview

Title: NESS INFORMATION SERVICE NESSLETTER
Issue: 159
Date: November 2012
Publisher: R.R.Hepple
Country: UK
ISSN: 0204-7001

This issue of the Nessletter, dated November 2012, provides a comprehensive look at recent developments and discussions surrounding the Loch Ness phenomenon. It includes a review of a professionally produced Loch Ness calendar, an in-depth analysis of a widely publicized photograph, and reports on sonar contacts and ongoing research.

Loch Ness Calendar Review

The issue begins with a review of a Loch Ness calendar created by Canadian commercial photographers Dale Roth and Michele Ramberg. The calendar, chosen from over a hundred entries, features glossy photographs of Loch Ness, often paired with local residents and their quotes regarding the creature. The reviewer notes that the views are connected to the people featured, such as Steve Feltham, whose van is pictured, and Rebekah Wynne Evans, whose pottery is shown. Simon Hargreaves is also mentioned, quoted as seeing 'something dark with humps'. The reviewer finds the loch views pleasant but realizes their connection to the individuals makes them more significant. However, the calendar also contains inaccuracies, such as misinterpreting the 'seiche effect' as a cause for sightings, confusing it with boat wakes.

The George Edwards Photograph Controversy

A significant portion of the newsletter is dedicated to the photograph taken by George Edwards on August 4th, showing a 'hump' in Urquhart Bay. The photograph, published in the Daily Mail, depicts an asymmetric hump, drab gray/brownie in color, with no distinct features. While the initial report suggests the object could be moving slowly, the newsletter expresses skepticism about its distance from the camera and the object's size. The reviewer, Rip, notes that the photograph's release has been delayed and that Edwards claims friends in the US military analyzed it, deeming the object 'animate'.

Steve Feltham has publicly debunked the Edwards photograph on his website, calling it a fake. He met with Edwards, who was reportedly reluctant to discuss the photo and eager to get his tourist boat underway. Feltham believes the object is a glass-fibre hump created for a documentary, pointing out similarities to a known model. He suggests the photo may have been taken during filming, possibly from the cabin roof.

George Edwards has denied knowledge of a fake hump, though he would have seen it if involved in filming. He stated that people who make their livelihoods from the Loch should be happy it is in the news. Rip expresses sadness at this 'attempt at publicity', questioning the actions of someone who has spent 26 years as a 'monster hunter' and criticizes the production of fake photographs, which could damage the credibility of serious research and negatively impact tourism.

Sonar Contact and Research

Steve Feltham reported on a significant sonar contact made by Marcus Atkinson in August/September '11. Atkinson, a skipper of a tourist boat, captured an unusual image on his sonar screen in Castle Bay, near Urquhart Castle. The image showed a thin, elongated oval streak between 20 and 25 meters depth, approximately five feet thick, and appearing to be a separate, free-moving target. Feltham believes this contact defies all explanations and is more credible than other entries in a William Hill competition, which he felt might have made the subject a 'laughing stock' if a lump of wood or a seal had won.

Other Reports and News

Peter Davenport provided updates on his trips to Loch Morar and Loch Ness. He reported a sighting of a black object leaving a distinct wake on Loch Morar. He also commented on the Jobes account from a previous issue, finding it unlikely to get photographs from the same place on consecutive days. Davenport also found the Edwards photograph interesting but questioned the stated distance, believing the object was much closer.

Steve Feltham also complained to OFCOM about a National Geographic Channel documentary titled 'Truth Beneath Loch Ness'. He felt his words were manipulated through editing to suggest he believed Nessie was a 'Sturgeon', which is not his view. OFCOM upheld his complaint, and the program was removed from schedules for re-editing.

Editorial Stance and Recurring Themes

This issue reflects a critical and investigative approach to Loch Ness phenomena. The editor, Rip, expresses concern over the potential for hoaxes and the impact on serious research. There is a strong emphasis on scrutinizing photographic evidence and questioning claims that lack rigorous scientific backing. The newsletter champions the importance of credible evidence and the protection of the mystery's integrity. Recurring themes include the challenges of identifying the creature, the role of sonar technology, the impact of media coverage, and the ongoing quest for definitive proof. The editorial stance is one of cautious skepticism, encouraging thorough investigation while warning against sensationalism and fabricated evidence.

Subscription and Contact Information

The newsletter concludes with a thank you to its readers and subscribers, acknowledging the intermittent service. Subscription rates are provided: UK £3.00 and USA $10. The contact address for R.R.Hepple is given as 7 Huntshieldford, St John's Chapel, Weardale Co Durham, DL13 1RQ, with telephone numbers 01388 537359 and mobile 07989813963.