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Ed and Mel Charles talk about the 70th-anniversary celebration marking the saving of Belle Tout Lighthouse near Eastbourne, as well as a BBC report about the refurbishment of Leasowe Lighthouse on Wirral. Built in 1763, it is the UK's only brick-built lighthouse, and has been supported by a £30,000 council grant to the Friends of Leasowe Lighthouse.    Our guest this week is historian Martin Rose, author of "Henry Winstanley, the Last Renaissance Engineer". We discuss Winstanley's wide-ranging work as engraver, clockmaker, clerk of works at Audley End, and creator of mechanical "wonders," and on how he came to build the world's first offshore rock lighthouse at Eddystone. Martin sheds light on the hardships of construction, its destruction in the 1703 Great Storm, and lessons reflected in later Eddystone rebuilds.   Key moments   01:43 Belle Tout Anniversary 04:40 Clifftop Threats Return 05:51 Brick Lighthouse Mystery 07:28 Lighthouse Quiz Reveal 08:21 Introducing WinStanley 10:51 Meet Author Martin Rose 12:36 How He Got The Job 15:57 Debunking Eddystone Myths 18:58 Building on the Reef 19:34 Join the Lighthouse Association 20:08 Great Storm of 1703 21:44 Why Winstanley Stayed 22:35 Next Lighthouses Lessons 23:46 Audley End Engravings 24:56 Clerk of Works Duties 26:42 House of Wonders Tricks 29:55 Hyde Park Water Theatre 34:47 Legacy and Farewell

In this episode of Keeping Watch, hosts Ed Peppitt and Mel Charles share lighthouse news from the AGM in Whitehaven, including a visit to St Bees Lighthouse in heavy weather, Gordon Medlicott's memoirs book sales and signing, as well as Ed's involvement in BBC Radio 3's all-day lighthouse broadcast featuring live choral music and an interview with his daughter Lottie. Mel also highlights Annie's Lighthouse Explorers website, where Annie is building a lighthouse-themed media library. The main interview is with ALK member Rohan Beyts, who bought Toddhead Lighthouse near Aberdeen after it was decommissioned and converted it into her home. She talks about the purchase in 2012, the various planning permission and listed-building constraints, the tower's glass floor over the old clockwork mechanism, maintenance challenges from winter weather and salt, and the community of lighthouse-connected visitors and stories. Key moments 01:19 AGM Weekend in Whitehaven 01:58 St Bees Stormy Tower Tour 04:32 Food and Hotel Highlights 05:29 BBC Radio 3 at Dungeness 07:56 Lighthouse Explorers Media Library 09:01 Meet Rowan of Tod Head 10:32 Buying the Lighthouse 12:31 Renovation and Glass Floor 15:34 Finding the ALK Community 18:34 Wild Weather and Visitors 21:33 ALK Membership Message 22:08 Birdlife and Moth Recording 25:22 Stevenson Designs and Lighthouse Collecting 28:15 Preserving Stories and Heritage 29:07 Christmas Lights and Farewell 29:59 Episode Wrap and Subscribe

Flat Holm Island and Lighthouse - News from New Zealand - BBC Radio 3 programme this weekend   In Lighthouse News, Mel shares a New Zealand story of last keeper Ray Walter on Tiritiri Matangi near Auckland, who, after automation in 1984, stayed on and helped restore the island by overseeing the planting of 283,000 trees over 26 years, increasing native cover and wildlife.   Ed discusses acquiring more lighthouse postcard volumes and the challenge of organizing a growing collection. They note Mel's upcoming ALK AGM trip to Whitehaven and Ed's participation in BBC Radio 3's all-day "music and lighthouses" broadcast from multiple lighthouses, starting at Dungeness.   They then introduce an interview with Bridget Box, new President of the Flat Holm Society, detailing Flat Holm's features, history, lighthouse origins (first light 1739), volunteer work, visitor access, and restoration of the foghorn station with hopes it may sound again.   Key moments   01:05 This Week's Lighthouse News 01:38 New Zealand Island Rewilding 05:25 Postcard Collecting Dilemmas 07:58 Whitehaven AGM Trip Plans 08:55 BBC Radio Lighthouses Special 12:40 Introducing Flat Holm Interview 14:28 Flat Holm Location and Society 15:41 Island Landmarks and Wildlife 16:51 Flat Holm Lighthouse Origins 18:11 Coal Fire Lightkeeper Tales 19:39 Visiting Flat Holm Today 20:15 Planning Your Visit 21:05 Staying Overnight History 22:38 Island Life Essentials 23:49 Wildlife And Flora 24:43 Volunteers And Conservation 26:01 Remembering Jerry Sherwood 28:57 Sticking To The Paths 30:26 Trinity House Maintenance 32:50 Restoration And Foghorn Return 34:49 Where To Learn More 37:09 Final Thanks And Signoff

Keeping Watch returns for Season 4 with Ed Peppitt and Mel Charles back behind the microphones after an extended break. The episode opens with a warm catch-up between the hosts, a little relief that the long-awaited fourth season is finally underway, and the reassurance that the season has been carefully planned, even if the spreadsheet took a while to become finished episodes. Episode Summary In this first episode of Season 4, Ed and Mel begin with lighthouse news from around the world before handing over to a full-length interview with Alan Boyers, former lighthouse keeper and long-serving attendant keeper at Old Head of Kinsale in County Cork. Alan speaks with Mel about a life shaped by Irish Lights: growing up in lighthouse families, following his father into the service, training as a keeper, working around the Irish coast, living through automation, and eventually returning to lighthouse life at Old Head of Kinsale. The conversation ranges from fog cannons, lightning strikes, mercury baths and storm shutters to family memories, keeper hierarchies, lighthouse hobbies, ships in bottles, and the deep friendships formed by those who worked the rocks. It is a generous, funny, moving interview with someone whose life has been intertwined with lighthouses from childhood. In This Episode Ed and Mel discuss: The return of Keeping Watch for Season 4 News of recovered blocks from the Lighthouse of Alexandria The scale, design and possible appearance of the ancient Pharos A volunteer residential lighthouse keeper opportunity at Point Reyes, north of San Francisco Mel's visit to Cork with the Association of Lighthouse Keepers Meeting Alan Boyers at Old Head of Kinsale Why this interview was too rich to split into short excerpts Mel and Alan discuss: Fog at Old Head of Kinsale and the old fog allowance The history of the gunner's house and fog cannons at Old Head Lighthouse families in Ireland and the decline of resident keeper families Alan's childhood moving between Irish lighthouse stations His father's service with Irish Lights and Alan's decision to follow him Joining Irish Lights as an "improver" Training at the lighthouse depot and at Dun Laoghaire Life before and during automation Returning to the lighthouse world as attendant keeper at Old Head of Kinsale in 1992 Working as a chef alongside lighthouse duties Life at Old Head with Alan's wife Kathy The animals at the lighthouse, including tortoises George and Henrietta Alan's 26 lighthouse stations Storm Ophelia and the force of Atlantic weather A lightning strike that forced Alan to switch off the light at night The four-and-a-half-ton lens at Old Head and the change to LED lighting Mercury baths, vapour readings and the move toward bearings Ballycotton, Fastnet, Bull Rock, Skelligs, Tuskar Rock, Roancarrig and other Irish lights The keeper community, radio calls, WhatsApp groups and old stories Semaphore, Morse code and changing communication at lighthouse stations Lighthouse artefacts, uniforms, brass buttons and family keepsakes The work of wives and children in lighthouse families Keeper hierarchy, rock station life and friendships Hobbies on the rocks, including ships in bottles, shell work, Open University courses and fishing The hardship of long relief delays before helicopters became common Lighthouse News The Lighthouse of Alexandria Mel shares news of work to recover large stone blocks from the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria, also known as the Pharos. The recovered blocks weigh around 80 tonnes each, and archaeologists have found architectural details that may help refine understanding of how the lighthouse looked. The hosts reflect on the astonishing scale of the Pharos: probably more than 100 metres tall, with a square base, octagonal middle section and cylindrical lantern room, topped by a statue of Zeus. Its light may have been visible up to 50 kilometres away. Point Reyes Volunteer Lighthouse Keepers Mel also highlights a call for residential volunteer lighthouse keepers at Point Reyes, north of San Francisco. The role involves helping visitors understand lighthouse life as part of the National Park Service, with accommodation provided and a winter season running roughly from November to May. Main Guest Alan Boyers Former Irish Lights lighthouse keeper and attendant keeper at Old Head of Kinsale. Alan comes from a lighthouse family and joined Irish Lights at a young age after the death of his father, who had also been a keeper. Across his career, Alan served at 26 lighthouse stations and later became attendant keeper at Old Head of Kinsale, where he has lived and worked since 1992. Key Themes A Life In The Service Alan's story is inseparable from Irish Lights. As a child, he moved between stations including Roches Point, Ballycotton, Tuskar Rock and Rosslare/Whiteford. After his father died in 1972, Irish Lights told Alan he could apply when he was old enough. At 16, he rang them to say he was ready. Because he was still too young to become a full keeper, he began in the lighthouse depot as an improver, learning practical skills across departments before formal training. Automation And Change Alan entered lighthouse keeping as automation was approaching. Irish Lights gave keepers a long notice period, but the change was still painful for people who loved the job. Alan took redundancy, trained as a chef, and thought his lighthouse life was over until Old Head of Kinsale became available as an attendant keeper post. Old Head Of Kinsale Old Head becomes almost a character in the episode: beautiful, exposed, fog-prone, storm-battered and deeply loved. Alan explains its fog history, including cannons and the gunner's house, and describes living there through lightning strikes, Atlantic storms and the daily rhythms of an automated light. The Beauty And Loss Of Lighthouse Technology Alan and Mel talk about Fresnel lenses, LED lights, mercury baths and fog engines. Alan is grateful that Old Head has retained its lens, even though the warmer character of the old light has changed with LED technology. He also reflects on the practical and health-and-safety changes around mercury. Family, Memory And Inheritance Some of the episode's most moving moments centre on Alan's father, RW Boyers. Alan deliberately visited every lighthouse his father had served at, searching for signatures and traces of him. He also still has the lighthouse keeper's cap that was placed on his father's coffin. Alan reflects on whether his children might have followed him into the service had traditional lighthouse keeping continued. One son did go to sea, and Alan describes lighthouse work as something that belonged to whole families, not just the men officially employed as keepers. The Hidden Work Of Lighthouse Families Alan is clear that wives and children did a great deal of work at lighthouse stations: painting walls, polishing lenses, cleaning brass and helping maintain the station. He notes that women in lighthouse families did not always receive the recognition they deserved. Life On The Rocks Alan describes the routine of rock stations: four hours on watch, eight hours off; fishing, swimming where possible, making things, studying, and living closely with other keepers. There were hierarchies and difficult personalities, but also lifelong bonds. The episode captures both the romance and the cost of the job: long absences, family strain, communication difficulties and the impossibility of coming ashore except in the most serious circumstances. Memorable Moments Mel and Ed admitting Season 4 has been planned for months, but has only now made it back to air The hosts marvelling at the possible 100-metre height of the Lighthouse of Alexandria Alan explaining that Old Head was known for fog and that keepers received fog allowance Alan describing the house at Old Head as so exposed that opening the front door could nearly blow you away The story of two foxes getting into the top of the tower during a storm Alan being bitten while trying to remove them A lightning strike at Old Head that stopped the rotation of the lens and forced Alan to turn off the light at night Alan describing the Old Head lens: a four-and-a-half-ton optic still revolving around an LED Alan meeting his old school principal while in full keeper uniform at Bailey Lighthouse The "Hilton" nickname for Ballycotton's once-excellent rock station accommodation Alan camping as a boy near Ballycotton under an Irish Lights flag The retired keepers' WhatsApp group replacing old radio calls Stories of Christmas sing-songs over lighthouse radio Alan searching old stations for his father's signatures George and Henrietta the tortoises becoming unexpected stars of the visit Places Mentioned Old Head of Kinsale Galley Head Ballycotton Roches Point Tuskar Rock Rosslare / Whiteford Bailey Lighthouse Dun Laoghaire Ferris Point Bull Rock Fastnet Rock Skelligs Tearaght / the Tears Eagle Island Black Rock Tory Island Roancarrig Mizen Head St John's Point, County Down Point Reyes, California Lighthouse of Alexandria / Pharos Tallinn Maritime Museum Links And Resources Association of Lighthouse Keepers: https://alk.org.uk Alan's Instagram: oldheadlighthousekinsale Old Head Lighthouse Kinsale Instagram: search for oldheadlighthousekinsale Point Reyes National Seashore volunteer opportunities: check the National Park Service website Lighthouse of Alexandria archaeological news: search for recent coverage of Pharos recovery work Closing Notes After the interview, Ed and Mel reflect on what an extraordinary guest Alan is, and Mel shares that Alan and his tortoises, George and Henrietta, will be remembered fondly by the podcast. Mel also explains that the long break between seas

In this special end-of-season episode, we bring you two very different — but equally captivating — lighthouse stories. Tony Mills – From the Tower to the Pulpit Ed and Mel talk with Tony Mills, a former Trinity House lighthouse keeper who served in the early 1970s on stations including: The Lizard Longships Round Island South Bishop Tony shares vivid memories of boat and helicopter reliefs, terrifying storms, and late-night fog signals — plus a few unexpected mishaps. He recalls polished brass handrails, paraffin-powered fridges, and makeshift washing routines. And just when you think you've heard it all… he casually reveals his later calling as a priest. A warm, humorous, and heartfelt interview full of rich anecdotes and the realities of rock lighthouse life. Annie Spencer – The Lighthouse Explorer Next, Ed catches up with Annie Spencer, founder of the Lighthouse Explorers YouTube channel and social media presence. Annie shares how her love of lighthouses grew during lockdown — and how it now fuels an ever-expanding community. You'll hear about: Her life on a canal boat The joy of organising lighthouse day trips (with 60+ people joining so far!) Using TikTok and YouTube to make lighthouse heritage accessible Her dream of reaching Iceland's remotest lights Why lighthouses offer more than just great views Annie's passion is infectious, and her grassroots project is proof that lighthouses still capture the public imagination in new ways. Plus: Lighthouse News Mel shares another message-in-a-bottle discovery — this time from Cape Bruny, Tasmania — and news of a Shetland lighthouse cottage up for sale (ideal for hardy renovators with a love of wild weather). Episode Highlights A rare glimpse of 1970s lighthouse life from a former Trinity House keeper Boat landings, storm damage, and why Tony once got hit with a foghorn blast Annie's journey from lockdown explorer to community organiser The power of social media in preserving and sharing lighthouse history Favourite lighthouses, spooky basements, and seagull-proof fridges Links & Mentions Lighthouse Explorers: lighthouseexplorers.com Annie's YouTube: Lighthouse Explorers Instagram: @lighthouse_explorers ALK Membership: alk.org.uk Subscribe & Share That's the end of Season 3 — thank you for listening! We'll be back soon with Season 4. Subscribe now wherever you get your podcasts, and if you've enjoyed the show, please tell a friend or leave us a review. For comments or to get involved: [email protected]

In this week's episode of Keeping Watch, Ed and Mel discuss a lighthouse Banksy in Marseilles, before Mel interviews Scottish photographer Conor Gault, who is on a mission to photograph every living Scottish lighthouse keeper and the lighthouses where they served. Conor's heartfelt project is rooted in his family history, his Grandfather having served as a keeper himself. He talks about the artistic process of capturing his images on large-format film, and the emotional stories behind the photos.  You can see Conor's photographs and find out more about the project at his website: https://www.conorgault.com Key moments 01:05 Interview with Conor Gault  01:41 Banksy's Lighthouse Artwork 06:18 Conor Gault's Photography Journey 07:35 The Lighthouse Project 12:48 Memories and Portraits 19:20 Tributes and Future Plans 22:49 Heartwarming Farewell Stories 24:14 Lighthouse Conditions and Photography 25:55 Visiting Lighthouses with Keepers 27:42 Connecting with Lighthouse Keepers 29:11 The Future of the Lighthouse Project 30:35 Making Art Accessible to Communities 33:19 Expanding the Project Beyond Scotland 39:17 Challenges and Funding 42:59 Conclusion and Final Thoughts KEEPING WATCH is a fortnightly podcast for enthusiasts of lighthouses, lighthouse keepers, light vessels and other aids to maritime navigation.  We're keen to talk with other former light vessel and lighthouse keepers and crew - as well as others currently working in the lighthouse service. Again, you can email me at [email protected].  Please spread the word to friends and family who might be interested in listening. And do like, follow or subscribe to this podcast so that you are notified when each new episode is published. A comment or a splendid review on your podcast platform of choice would be very welcome and really helps us to get noticed.  If you have an idea for a story you'd like us to cover, or an interesting person with a lighthouse connection we might interview, do please drop me a line. Or perhaps you are a fellow enthusiast and would like to contribute to the podcast either once or on a regular basis? You can contact me at [email protected].  KEEPING WATCH is brought to you in association with the ALK - The Association of Lighthouse Keepers - a charitable trust in the UK dedicated to keeping lighthouse heritage alive.  Visit the Association of Lighthouse Keepers: www.alk.org.uk

In this episode of Keeping Watch, hosts Ed Peppitt and Melanie Charles bring you up to date with a roundup of lighthouse news. We welcome special guest Jeremy D'Entremont, a renowned author, historian, and host of the US Lighthouse Society's 'Lighthearted' podcast. They discuss various lighthouse-related topics, including Jeremy's extensive career, Scottish lighthouse keeper projects, lighthouse history, and personal stories from lighthouse keepers around the world.   This informative episode also explores Jeremy's passion for lighthouses, key moments from his podcast, and the enduring importance of preserving lighthouse history.   Key moments   01:05 Meet Jeremy D'Entremont 01:38 Lighthouse News Roundup 01:54 Gerald Butler's Wedding Announcement 03:00 Lighthouse Honeymoon Destinations 05:10 Photography Project by Connor Gault 08:14 Interview with Jeremy D'Entremont 14:23 Jeremy's Lighthouse Journey 16:08 Writing and Podcasting Adventures 30:43 Meeting the Light Keeper 31:31 Interview with Barry Porter 32:04 Rescue from Boone Island Lighthouse 33:47 Interview with Eric J. Dolin 35:10 Lighthouse Tours and Travels 39:24 Challenges in Lighthouse Preservation 49:06 Favorite Lighthouses and Future Plans 58:11 Conclusion and Podcast Promotion   KEEPING WATCH is a fortnightly podcast for enthusiasts of lighthouses, lighthouse keepers, light vessels and other aids to maritime navigation.  We're keen to talk with other former light vessel and lighthouse keepers and crew - as well as others currently working in the lighthouse service. Again, you can email me at [email protected].  Please spread the word to friends and family who might be interested in listening. And do like, follow or subscribe to this podcast so that you are notified when each new episode is published. A comment or a splendid review on your podcast platform of choice would be very welcome and really helps us to get noticed.  If you have an idea for a story you'd like us to cover, or an interesting person with a lighthouse connection we might interview, do please drop me a line. Or perhaps you are a fellow enthusiast and would like to contribute to the podcast either once or on a regular basis? You can contact me at [email protected].  KEEPING WATCH is brought to you in association with the ALK - The Association of Lighthouse Keepers - a charitable trust in the UK dedicated to keeping lighthouse heritage alive.  Visit the Association of Lighthouse Keepers: www.alk.org.uk

In this week's episode of Keeping Watch, Ed and Mel discuss the community protests against the automation of St John's Point Lighthouse in Northern Ireland, and the recent cliff falls close to Belle Tout in Sussex.   This week's special guest, engineer and television presenter Rob Bell, joins Ed to talk about his fascination with lighthouses and the challenges of producing his three series of lighthouse programs.   They discuss the logistics and challenges of filming at remote locations, the allure and difficulty of capturing such engineering marvels, and Rob's personal reflections on the heritage of lighthouses. Rob concludes with a heartfelt appreciation for the lighthouse community and how they welcomed him so heartily when making his programmes.   Key moments   01:05 Lighthouse News Update 01:36 St. John's Point Lighthouse Controversy 06:38 Bell Toot Lighthouse Erosion Concerns 08:51 Interview with Rob Bell 11:23 Join the Association of Lighthouse Keepers 11:55 Rob Bell's Railway Walk Series 13:41 Behind the Scenes of Lighthouse Series 16:13 Challenges of Filming Lighthouses 18:51 Rob Bell's Favorite Lighthouses 31:35 Future Projects and Closing Remarks   KEEPING WATCH is a fortnightly podcast for enthusiasts of lighthouses, lighthouse keepers, light vessels and other aids to maritime navigation.  We're keen to talk with other former light vessel and lighthouse keepers and crew - as well as others currently working in the lighthouse service. Again, you can email me at [email protected].  Please spread the word to friends and family who might be interested in listening. And do like, follow or subscribe to this podcast so that you are notified when each new episode is published. A comment or a splendid review on your podcast platform of choice would be very welcome and really helps us to get noticed.  If you have an idea for a story you'd like us to cover, or an interesting person with a lighthouse connection we might interview, do please drop me a line. Or perhaps you are a fellow enthusiast and would like to contribute to the podcast either once or on a regular basis? You can contact me at [email protected].  KEEPING WATCH is brought to you in association with the ALK - The Association of Lighthouse Keepers - a charitable trust in the UK dedicated to keeping lighthouse heritage alive.  Visit the Association of Lighthouse Keepers: www.alk.org.uk

This week's episode of Keeping Watch, hosted by Ed Peppitt and Melanie Charles, features a captivating discussion with Mark Lewis, the ALK Education Officer, on lighthouses and the paranormal. Mark shares his exploration of ghost stories, folklore, and scientific explanations related to paranormal phenomena in lighthouses around the world. Ed and Mel also talk about last weekend's ALK Digital Archive weekend at Bidston Hill Lighthouse. Key moments 01:05 Lighthouses and the Paranormal 01:25 Weekend at Bidston Observatory 04:53 Digital Archiving Adventures 07:46 Lighthouse News: Long Ships Fog Signal 08:59 Interview with Mark Lewis: Folklore and Paranormal 26:45 Investigating Paranormal Phenomena in Lighthouses 27:36 Ruling Out Natural Explanations 29:14 Suggestibility and Memory in Paranormal Experiences 33:38 Scientific Theories on Paranormal Activity 39:43 Mercury Poisoning and Lighthouse Keepers 41:59 Famous Lighthouse Mysteries and Folklore 45:08 The Romantic Movement and Lighthouse Stories 47:25 Fiction Morphing into Fact 49:31 Favorite Paranormal Stories and Future Projects 53:03 Conclusion and Upcoming Episodes KEEPING WATCH is a fortnightly podcast for enthusiasts of lighthouses, lighthouse keepers, light vessels and other aids to maritime navigation.  We're keen to talk with other former light vessel and lighthouse keepers and crew - as well as others currently working in the lighthouse service. Again, you can email me at [email protected].  Please spread the word to friends and family who might be interested in listening. And do like, follow or subscribe to this podcast so that you are notified when each new episode is published. A comment or a splendid review on your podcast platform of choice would be very welcome and really helps us to get noticed.  If you have an idea for a story you'd like us to cover, or an interesting person with a lighthouse connection we might interview, do please drop me a line. Or perhaps you are a fellow enthusiast and would like to contribute to the podcast either once or on a regular basis? You can contact me at [email protected].  KEEPING WATCH is brought to you in association with the ALK - The Association of Lighthouse Keepers - a charitable trust in the UK dedicated to keeping lighthouse heritage alive.  Visit the Association of Lighthouse Keepers: www.alk.org.uk

In this episode of Keeping Watch, Melanie talks about her recent trip to Tenerife and her review of the local lighthouses. The main highlight, however, is a wonderfully candid conversation with Lou Medlicott, wife of former lighthouse keeper Gordon Medlicott, who recounts her experiences and challenges of raising a family while married to a lighthouse keeper. The episode also features exciting news about potential access to Dungeness (new) Lighthouse for ALK members, and a brief nod to Anna B Savage's achingly haunting new single called Lighthouse.  Key moments 01:33 Melanie's Tenerife Lighthouse Adventures 06:59 The Ugliest Lighthouse in the World 08:37 Exciting Lighthouse News 12:37 Interview with a Lighthouse Keeper's Wife 17:28 Life on the Lighthouse Station 25:55 Life with the Fog Signal 26:43 Challenges of Living Above the Engine Room 28:03 Moving Back to Society 29:09 Children's Perspective on Lighthouse Life 31:30 Female Lighthouse Keepers 37:33 Rumors of Death and Acts of Heroism 44:27 Concluding Reflections and Farewell     KEEPING WATCH is a fortnightly podcast for enthusiasts of lighthouses, lighthouse keepers, light vessels and other aids to maritime navigation.  We're keen to talk with other former light vessel and lighthouse keepers and crew - as well as others currently working in the lighthouse service. Again, you can email me at [email protected].  Please spread the word to friends and family who might be interested in listening. And do like, follow or subscribe to this podcast so that you are notified when each new episode is published. A comment or a splendid review on your podcast platform of choice would be very welcome and really helps us to get noticed.  If you have an idea for a story you'd like us to cover, or an interesting person with a lighthouse connection we might interview, do please drop me a line. Or perhaps you are a fellow enthusiast and would like to contribute to the podcast either once or on a regular basis? You can contact me at [email protected].  KEEPING WATCH is brought to you in association with the ALK - The Association of Lighthouse Keepers - a charitable trust in the UK dedicated to keeping lighthouse heritage alive.  Visit the Association of Lighthouse Keepers: www.alk.org.uk

This week, Ed and Mel talk about the various lighthouse tours and events planned by the Association of Lighthouse Keepers (ALK) for 2025 - including the Isle of Wight, Cornwall, Anglesey and Kent.    They also talk with former lighthouse keeper Gordon Medlicott, whose career with Trinity House spanned 32 years, from 1966 to 1998. Gordon regales us with stories from his time in the service, including Gordon's personal interaction with Prince Philip during a special Thanksgiving dinner for lighthouse keepers.    Key moments   00:00 Welcome to Season 3 of Keeping Watch 01:19 Upcoming Lighthouse Tours and Events 02:32 Memorable Lighthouse Visits and Experiences 06:48 Exciting Future Trips and Plans 17:10 Special Interview with Gordon Medlicott 19:24 Gordon's Thanksgiving Dinner with Prince Philip 28:08 The Final Days of Manned Lighthouses 32:16 Public Liability and Promotion 32:49 The Lighthouse Exhibition 33:33 A Week of Success 34:53 The Heart Attack Incident 36:23 Navigating the Storm 37:26 The Boatman's Courage 43:52 Travel Troubles 48:43 Hobbies and Downtime 53:06 Promotion and Reflections 55:19 Conclusion and Farewell     KEEPING WATCH is a fortnightly podcast for enthusiasts of lighthouses, lighthouse keepers, light vessels and other aids to maritime navigation.  We're keen to talk with other former light vessel and lighthouse keepers and crew - as well as others currently working in the lighthouse service. Again, you can email me at [email protected].  Please spread the word to friends and family who might be interested in listening. And do like, follow or subscribe to this podcast so that you are notified when each new episode is published. A comment or a splendid review on your podcast platform of choice would be very welcome and really helps us to get noticed.  If you have an idea for a story you'd like us to cover, or an interesting person with a lighthouse connection we might interview, do please drop me a line. Or perhaps you are a fellow enthusiast and would like to contribute to the podcast either once or on a regular basis? You can contact me at [email protected].  KEEPING WATCH is brought to you in association with the ALK - The Association of Lighthouse Keepers - a charitable trust in the UK dedicated to keeping lighthouse heritage alive.  Visit the Association of Lighthouse Keepers: www.alk.org.uk

This episode pays tribute to Ian Duff, former lighthouse keeper and President of the Association of Lighthouse Keepers (ALK), who passed away in November.   We share heartfelt memories and stories from Ian's friends, colleagues, and fellow ALK members. Ian's remarkable career spanned from 1976 to 1992, during which he served at numerous Scottish lighthouses. The episode also highlights Ian's deep love for lighthouses, his iconic red jacket adorned with lighthouse patches, and his invaluable contributions to lighthouse history and preservation.   Ian shares his own reflections on his career, making it a poignant homage to his life and legacy.   Key moments   00:00 Introduction to Ian Duff 01:04 Life as a Lighthouse Keeper 01:46 Environmental Observations and Wildlife Encounters 03:42 Tributes and Memories of Ian Duff 04:44 Ian's Legacy and Contributions 06:46 Personal Anecdotes and Stories 10:40 Ian's Passion for Lighthouses 23:33 Final Reflections and Farewell   We are extremely grateful to the Northern Lighthouse Board, Luke Saddler and BBC Blue Planet for allowing to share Ian's personal reflections at the beginning of the episode.  KEEPING WATCH is a fortnightly podcast for enthusiasts of lighthouses, lighthouse keepers, light vessels and other aids to maritime navigation.  We're keen to talk with other former light vessel and lighthouse keepers and crew - as well as others currently working in the lighthouse service. Again, you can email me at [email protected].  Please spread the word to friends and family who might be interested in listening. And do like, follow or subscribe to this podcast so that you are notified when each new episode is published. A comment or a splendid review on your podcast platform of choice would be very welcome and really helps us to get noticed.  If you have an idea for a story you'd like us to cover, or an interesting person with a lighthouse connection we might interview, do please drop me a line. Or perhaps you are a fellow enthusiast and would like to contribute to the podcast either once or on a regular basis? You can contact me at [email protected].  KEEPING WATCH is brought to you in association with the ALK - The Association of Lighthouse Keepers - a charitable trust in the UK dedicated to keeping lighthouse heritage alive.  Visit the Association of Lighthouse Keepers: www.alk.org.uk

In this episode of Keeping Watch, hosts Ed Peppitt and Melanie Charles discuss new lighthouse stories in the news, including the twinning of the Mull of Galloway Lighthouse in Stranraer with the Inubosaki Lighthouse in Japan, and the discovery of a 132-year-old message in a bottle at Corsewall Lighthouse.   Mel interviews Robert Fong, curator of the Museum of the Gulf Coast in Texas, about the history, challenges, and unique characteristics of three lighthouses in Texas: Sabine Bank, Sabine Pass, and Bolivar Point.   We also pay tribute to the late Ian Duff, the Association of Lighthouse Keepers' friend and president.   Key moments   01:06 Tribute to Ian Duff 02:12 Lighthouse Twinning Concept 02:49 Henry Brunton's Legacy in Japan 03:47 Characteristics of Scottish and Japanese Lighthouses 06:33 Message in a Bottle Discovery 11:01 Interview with Robert Fong 13:54 Sabine Bank Lighthouse History 24:27 Joining the Association of Lighthouse Keepers 25:02 Sabine Pass Lighthouse 25:42 Lighthouse Structural Integrity 26:49 Sabine Pass Lighthouse History 27:35 Civil War Skirmish at the Lighthouse 30:46 Post-War Lighthouse Challenges 36:21 Bolivar Point Lighthouse 38:41 Hurricane Stories and Lighthouse Resilience 43:39 Lighthouse Preservation Efforts 48:48 Museum of the Gulf Coast 51:14 Podcast Conclusion and Next Episode Teaser KEEPING WATCH is a fortnightly podcast for enthusiasts of lighthouses, lighthouse keepers, light vessels and other aids to maritime navigation.  We're keen to talk with other former light vessel and lighthouse keepers and crew - as well as others currently working in the lighthouse service. Again, you can email me at [email protected].  Please spread the word to friends and family who might be interested in listening. And do like, follow or subscribe to this podcast so that you are notified when each new episode is published. A comment or a splendid review on your podcast platform of choice would be very welcome and really helps us to get noticed.  If you have an idea for a story you'd like us to cover, or an interesting person with a lighthouse connection we might interview, do please drop me a line. Or perhaps you are a fellow enthusiast and would like to contribute to the podcast either once or on a regular basis? You can contact me at [email protected].  KEEPING WATCH is brought to you in association with the ALK - The Association of Lighthouse Keepers - a charitable trust in the UK dedicated to keeping lighthouse heritage alive.  Visit the Association of Lighthouse Keepers: www.alk.org.uk

In this episode of 'Keeping Watch,' Ed Peppitt and co-host Melanie Charles talk about some of the mysterious and spooky lighthouse tales, including the tragic story of Henry Hall at Eddystone, the eerie Flannan Islands mystery, and a death on Smalls.    Ed meets up at Galley Head lighthouse to talk with former keeper Gerald Butler about the impact of automation on keepers and their families. Gerald reflects on his transition from lighthouse keeper to fisherman and beyond, sharing personal anecdotes about the meaningful aspects of lighthouse life and the changes brought by automation.   Key moments   01:19 Gruesome Lighthouse Mysteries 01:56 The Eddystone Lighthouse Fire 05:35 The Flannan Islands Mystery 07:26 The Smalls Lighthouse Tragedy 09:35 Interview with Gerald Butler 11:14 Gerald Butler's Post-Lighthouse Life 14:43 Reflections on Lighthouse Life 16:16 The Importance of Time 29:15 Loneliness and Companionship 32:25 The Magic of Reading 33:11 The Great Lighthouses of Ireland 35:59 Life as a Light Keeper 41:42 Challenges of Automation 52:42 The Future of Lighthouses 01:01:14 A Lifelong Passion 01:03:50 Conclusion and Reflections   KEEPING WATCH is a fortnightly podcast for enthusiasts of lighthouses, lighthouse keepers, light vessels and other aids to maritime navigation.  We're keen to talk with other former light vessel and lighthouse keepers and crew - as well as others currently working in the lighthouse service. Again, you can email me at [email protected].  Please spread the word to friends and family who might be interested in listening. And do like, follow or subscribe to this podcast so that you are notified when each new episode is published. A comment or a splendid review on your podcast platform of choice would be very welcome and really helps us to get noticed.  If you have an idea for a story you'd like us to cover, or an interesting person with a lighthouse connection we might interview, do please drop me a line. Or perhaps you are a fellow enthusiast and would like to contribute to the podcast either once or on a regular basis? You can contact me at [email protected].  KEEPING WATCH is brought to you in association with the ALK - The Association of Lighthouse Keepers - a charitable trust in the UK dedicated to keeping lighthouse heritage alive.  Visit the Association of Lighthouse Keepers: www.alk.org.uk

In this episode of Keeping Watch, hosts Ed Peppitt and Melanie Charles pay tribute to former ALK patron Captain Richard Woodman, with insights shared by ALK founder Neil Hargreaves.   Ed and Mel discuss a recent BBC television programme about lighthouse keeping, including a maintenance visit to Chicken Rock; Mel discusses Linda McGuigan's recent talk for ALM members; And we are treated to an array of personal and eerie anecdotes from former lighthouse keeper Paul Murton.    Key moments   01:23 Tribute to Captain Richard Woodman 06:45 Catching Up with Mel 17:02 Paul Murton's Lighthouse Adventures 23:49 Exploring the Lighthouse 24:29 Radio Room Duties 25:04 Unsettling Experiences 26:45 A Night in the Radio Room 27:24 Injury and Hospital Visit 28:30 Meeting Mr. Dinsdale Again 28:58 New Assignment at Covesea Skerries 29:28 Life at Covesea Skerries 31:55 Transfer to Tarbert Ness 36:26 Haunting Memories 41:12 Resignation and Reflection 41:46 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview