An unusual petition has been launched to try and restore a feature that was a huge talking point for vistors and locals over the decades.
For years, the sweeping bright white beam of Flamborough Lighthouse was a familiar and comforting sight for those at sea and also those on the landward side, with the bright light visible from many parts of the Wolds, North Yorkshire Moors and south of the Humber.
In 2022 the lighthouse was modernised and the revolving Fresnel optic was removed, replaced by a pair of static LED lanterns, thus reducing the visible range of the light from 24 nautical miles to 18.
Jon Middleton, who has been a regular visitor to Flamborough for decades was disappointed to see the bright sweeping light go and after talking to many others in Flamborough it seems he is not the only one who misses it.
Jon spoke exclusively to the Echo and explained:
“I have started a petition for it to return, which has already begun to gather pace.
“As a result the majestic ‘sweeping light’ feature which many flocked to see revolving and dominating the nightime skyline is gone, taking with it a significant part of history and a sight familiar to millions throughout generations.
“The impact; a drastic change to an area of historic magnificence which has lost part of it’s heart and soul, and many people who now mourn the loss of one of the key components of their familiarisation with Flamborough.”
Flamborough Lighthouse was built in 1806 and acts as a waypoint for sea vessels and coastal traffic as well as marking the Flamborough Headland for vessels heading for the ports of Scarborough and Bridlington.
“In 1925, the Lighthouse Lantern was made taller, to accommodate a new 15-foot (first-order) revolving catadioptric optic made up of four asymmetrical panels to display four white flashes every fifteen seconds.” Jon added.
The Lighthouse is a Grade II listed building and has been a famous landmark to millions of visitors and seafarers
Jon continued: “Gone, are the evening walks from the Lighthouse to the headlands penisula and back whilst taking in the fascinating aura of the sweeping light, droves of families with excited children embarking on exciting night-time drives or walks to revel in awe at the sight of the beams pentrating into the darkness surrounding this beautiful place.
“This was a constant feature of this wonderful landscape which had so much relevance to others. It was the sight that brought back memories for many; who saw the sweeping light for the first time as a child during a magical moment shared with their parents, some of who are no longer with us. Those who sat and embraced the one (s) they love whilst gazing at this beautiful historic imposing beams travelling across the land and out to sea, with it illuminating its predecessor (old lighthouse).
“The change to the static LED lanterns has brought about a lot of sorrow to many. The landscape has lost one of its constant features which was a beautiful and heart warming sight.”
Jon feels the change has lead to a reduction in the quality of the overall experience of residing in and visiting the area. He adds that the local economic infrastructure and community relies heavily on tourism which relies on attractions such as the shining beams of the lighthouse.
“It’s never too late to change this. Please restore the lighthouse with its most important and outstanding feature.” Jon said.
Petition link: Click to go to the page.
