"The Beacon Stones" and anchor

Image: © Adrian S Pye Taken: 20 Oct 2010

The anchor is resting on what appears to be just a heap of stones but the small circular plaque which is barely legible tells a different story. i.e. "The Beacon Stones" these are said to be the base of a warning beacon against coastal attack erected in 1550 on the order of the Marquis of Northampton. Why the Marquis made such an order is unclear as at that time there was no immediate threat from the French and the Spanish were busy invading South America. Of course it could always be something else entirely as such stories are often assumed or fabricated when 'experts' haven't got a clue as to its original purpose, if in fact it ever had one. The more likely story is that these are "The Witches' Stones" which at the first stroke of midnight on the town hall clock make their way to the sea for a drink before returning by the twelfth stroke. If however water is poured upon them it causes it to rain and they have no need to go to the sea for a drink but can happily stay where they are supporting the anchor.

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