When the wind blows

Our nation's perpetual preoccupation with the elements is heightened in coastal towns where we stare incoming weather systems in the face. And for those that make their living on the sea, the art of gauging the forces of nature is an obsession born of a vital need rather than idle curiosity.

Today, we look to modern technology for our weather predications, and weathervanes are little more than an attractive flourish to tower, turret and spire, but they do serve to remind us of how nature's wild ways have, and always will be, a force to be reckoned with, here at the ocean's brink.

Two notable weathervanes proudly crown Newlyn's principal buildings: the beautifully detailed galleon atop the Fishermen's Mission and the golden cockerel of St Peter's church.

Words © Dee and Gerard Ivall. Images © Nik Strangelove