Portland Rover

Portland Olympics...The View Of The New World To The North Of Us!

2011-08-12T19:42:00.002+01:00

With less than 1 year to go until the Olympics Sailing Events start here in Portland. One wonders at the debarcle that leads us to this current juncture.

Much has been said about the "Legacy" which is one of the main reasons that so many people got behind the bid for the Olympics to be held here. But now leading up to the Olympic Sailing...the Folk of Portland are wondering where that Legacy is, and exactly what form will it take? And will we really get one?

Yes, Portland has a brand new Sailing Acadamy, with landscaped area's and hundreds of Halyards flapping against the aluminium and wooden masts of graceful yachts berthed alongside a plethora of pontoons overlooking the impressive Portland Harbour.

The new Bypass from Dorchester...all ready and waiting to speed the Sailors to this most wonderful of lands. The town on the mainland with the sandy beach bedecked in the most pathetic of traffic light systems ever devised. The shutting down of public area's to the locals...just so they can charge countless of pounds to allow for the influx of spectators, all watching the races from the shore...watching the sailboats all in a clump...not ever knowing who is in the lead, because, all you can see is...well...just boats!

I watch the local TV News... A presenter stands by Portland Castle, peice to camera...microphone in hand..."Hello, and welcome to (That place on the mainland with the sandy beach!)" When will it end? The Portland Sailing Acadamy is in PORTLAND! How many more times?!

With so few days remaining, Portland is still wondering about the Legacy. We are still awaiting the same money spent on the mainland to be spent here on Portland...Where is our Legacy?

So, the 30 or so Portable flagpoles that have recently been dotted around the Isle...Is that what the waiting world wants to see? A derelict, neglected Isle that was once a jewel in the English Channel...Her Famous Stone giving cities around the world such Grandure, such Elegance! Yet poor Portland...Guts ripped out...lost...forgotten...Now finds itself on the world stage again, but this time, the modern decay reaches out for help, for finance, for love... Just to be covered over with the proverbial dust sheet! "Yes, just fluff it up a bit with some flags and perhaps the Sailors and spectators won't notice, hope they visit North, and not bother with what's South of Victoria Square...Don't go there! Tis full of inbreds...." I believe that is the notion of those with authority on the mainland and dare I say... LOCOG?

I am painting a bleak Picture I know. I am aware that Portland is derelict, and unfinanced...and it breaks my heart! I remember what it was like in the early 70's, Alive, Vibrant....Clean. Yet today, with the promise of so much turning out to be so little...for a fleeting moment, I pictured Portland how she used to be...those memories made me smile. But reality jolts me back to the now. No cash for us! No help on the horizon......We shall just watch the new world from our drab dusty windows...as the wonderful Royal Manor continues to decay, whilst the mainlanders join with the world to sip Pimms on the prom and guffaw at the lonely Rock forever in the shadows............... Some Legacy!

Thanks for listening! Andy

Unto The Breaches My Dear Fort!

2011-07-12T20:21:00.000+01:00

Portlands Breakwater Fort, known as Chequer Fort began life around 1852. Twas' designed by a Captain of the Royal Engineers, Captain E. H Steward.

Millions of tons of Portland Stone went into the building of the Breakwater and the Fort, but this proved quite a burden on the builders of this huge construction. Heavy storms and the sheer weight of the stone in the fort created subsidence, and many cracks appeared during its construction. However, the design was altered to allow for this, so the original plan to have 3 Teirs, were reduced to allow for 2, and the original expectation to build completely in Portland stone to act as armour changed, when it was clad in 3 layers of 15cm thick Iron plating which was cast in Sheffield and shipped from Gosport to fit onto the Fort.

The design allowed for 14 x 12.5" RML (Rifle Muzzel Loading) cannon weighing 38 Ton each in the lower casement, and 7 cannon atop it.

As you can imagine, all this weight added to an already subsiding Fort, must have weighed heavy on the engineers minds (No Pun intended).

During the Fort's life, it was updated on numerous occasions to match the requirement for the age, seeing out both WW1 and WW2. finally being abandoned in 1956.

During the De-mob, the cannon were removed, and deemed obsolete, so they went for scrap...However 4 Breach blocks remain on the outer side of the fort. (Pictured above) Tis said, that when a boat came to remove them...the task was so difficult, they were abandoned...and now they still sit...rusting away, and playing their vital part in protecting Portland Harbour.

The Fort still remains all alone on the Breakwater. It is not open to the public, but as I work for the Harbour Authority, I regularly get to visit. I am truly lucky to see up close...the fantastic stonework of this wonderful Portland Building.

Thanks for listening! Andy

The Chesil Cove Hero's

2011-07-10T16:37:00.003+01:00

Having recently watched the launching of the first new Lerret at Chesil Cove for 40 years,

I felt my Poem here sums it all up....

Look at the Rooftops! Look at the bend.

Wood salvaged from shipwrecks that met tragic end.
The scattered planks that littered the shore,
were soon cleared away by a dozen or more.

We never lured the ships to their end!

We fired the rockets, breeches buoy we’d send.

Across on a rope, a survivor ashore,
like many a sailor, many times before.

Tis' wrong to suggest we were a scavenging lot.
Leading ships to their peril, leaving dead left to rot.
For those on the mainland, never really knew,
bout' the Portlanders saving the lives of the crew.

The many brave folk of Portland were born,
would row all together, into the mouth of the storm.
All sweating and straining through the sea like a demon,
all, to spare the lives of the seamen.

Still today, the folk of Melcombe and Wyke,
Say, we from the Isle, many lives we did strike.
Little they know of the Portlander brave,
who battled and fought to save lives on the wave.

The spoils of disaster, recycled for need.
Not stolen! Just reward, for their heroic deed.
A pride I feel, for the Islanders brave,
still ready to help…on the next stormy wave.

Thanks for listening! Andy

Old as the Hills!

2011-05-14T20:21:00.000+01:00

   Portland has wrongly been accused of being a "Treeless" Island. Today, this accusation cannot be further than the truth!

   Portland has large areas of Trees. Around Pennsylvania Castle, there is a veritable forest as you walk down from Wakeham to the ruins of St Andrew's Church and Church Ope cove. Before the Norman invasion of 1066, tis' said, that this area was at the centre of the Island...Until a Tsunami devastated the East side.

   Other Trees can be found dotted around the Isle, and many can be found surrounding "Old Hill" (Shown Left).

   Old Hill has survived the Isle by many thousands of years, and was the main route for the Uplanders of "Underhill" to get to the top, to the Downlanders of "Tophill", and visa versa.

   In Victorian times, the rough dirt path was transformed by the laying of cobbles and stone and Iron railings to prevent the local gentry getting their elegant clothing from getting soiled.

   The cobbles have long gone from this most ancient of hills, but the Stone posts of the guide rails can still be seen, although not entirely intact. Some have disappeared over time, and no doubt, now lie in some local gardens without the owners knowing what they are or from whence they came.

   This Hill was also lit by wonderful cast Iron gas lamps, so Portlanders were not hindered in their travels due to on-coming darkness.

Today? the path remains...Un-loved, and unkempt. But nonetheless, still regularly used. The ideals and the fashions may have changed, but I still get the image of the gentry...Ladies with sun umbrella's and floaty gowns. Men with top hats and waking sticks, children climbing on the rails as I walk the "Old Hill"...Knowing in my heart, that I tread the footsteps of thousands of years.

Thanks for listening! Andy

Portland Alive in Tranquility

2011-03-27T11:35:00.002+01:00

    Spring is well underway here on Portland. Birds are doing their dance of love, and making sweet music in more ways than one! Flowers are poking their heads out of the soil, slowly stretching towards the sun, and the leaves on the trees, almost extricating themselves from their buds ready to greet the year.

   Down on the East Wears, Bumblebees are buzzing, awaiting the vibrant colours of the awakening flowers. The Butterflies soon to be free from the cells that kept them snug whilst they change into beautiful flying creatures.

   The now unused quarries take on a much greener look as I walk within them. So much nature...alive and well.

   Kingbarrow Gulley (Shown left) Light and airy, until the growing greenery will plunge it into shadows for yet another year.

   It is a wonderful time of year on Portland. I sit on a rock in the middle of Kingbarrow Quarry. The only sounds I hear are nature in full form. The stillness of the scene only interrupted by the flash of some birds as they swoop towards their nests or playfully chase after each other. The ever searching flying insect buzzing around my ear hole. I am at peace with the world. I belong here!

   The paths of Portland starting to dry out now from the winter rains and frosts. They take on a dusty air as walk. And soon, back above Underhill where the sounds of human living spoil the serene natural setting I found myself in only a few minutes ago. Cars driving up Fortuneswell, the Helicopter landing after saving some lives...a complete departure from Kingbarrow Quarry. But...I know, if ever I need an escape from the modern world, I can always re-visit Kingbarrow, and for a little while...Only nature and myself exists in the world. It is the best tonic for everyday life there is!

Thanks for listening! Andy

My Portland. A poem by Andy J Straw

2011-02-13T19:27:00.001Z

The waves, how they crash on the Chesil shore.

The gulls float majestically above the sea.

This land of Slingers I adore.

This land of rugged beauty.

This Isle of stone I cherish so.

This wonderous home of mine.

I feel the land is calling me,

the rock that I must climb.

The ages cleft pon rocky edge.

Chain and steel on steel.

Plug and Feather split the bed,

tis our royal seal.

The tracks I ponder, the epic view.

Panoramic, the scene below.

but south lie wonder, a burgled land,

within the ebb and flow.

The ships, all gone below the depths,

above too, in loft and eaves.

Gone sailors sadly to their death.

sea spirit being thieves.

Our history tells but another tale,

and many folk have born,

my Island home to me my life,

forever we as one.

Thanks for listening! Andy

Keep Portland Weird?....So what are you saying?

2011-01-28T16:52:00.001Z

The phrase "Keep Portland Weird" refers to the people of Portland and their age old Customs and beliefs. I have a sneeking suspicion that the concept of said phrase was for just one of our age old customs..."The Bunny Thing" Now as a Portlander born and bred, I was never forced by my parents to adopt this superstition, I took it upon myself at a very early age to adopt this custom...and why not? For I am a Portlander! Why should I not conduct myself as my ancesters did?

I tought myself not to say the Bunny word, and I even read the Bunny word when written as the proper English word, as Bunny? Am I weird? No! I am continuing a tradition, in the hope of keeping my Island home alive, such as many people do with their own customs and way of doing things. Do I chase after a stinking Cheese down a steep hill? Do I run the gauntlet with dozens of Bulls heading towards me, hell bent for leasure? No....so why am I weird? Do I prance around a maypole? do I dress like a twonk and with little bells around my socks continue to hit another mans stick with my own? No! All of these customs are looked upon with love by those who partake in them, they do it...because it is traditional, and they want to continue the custom. They certainly are NOT weird! they are keeping the tradition alive, and I say good luck to them.

As for me....I can't say the Bunny word, no matter how fast I read aloud or how drunk I am...it is a Portland tradition! And I am bloody happy it continues! For those who say we are weird....Take a bloody good look at yourselves first before you bandy the word around. Thanks for listening! Andy.

Taken from a comment I left on Rob Sellen's Portland Bill blog
Thanks for listening! Andy

Brackenbury, Bricks and Beyond

2011-01-04T20:46:00.000Z

   At the turn of the 1900's Portland saw a dramatic surge of new government buildings being built by local builders under contract.

   It was decided to build a new Infant school in fortuneswell, and the only available space at the time was alongside the Methodist Church... A fantastic building in itself!

   Local government approached the architects Crickmay & Sons to design the School on the hill, and along with the regulations at the time, to design it in a manner which separated the sexes of the children. (Note the Stone Plinth above the door in the Photo).

   Final drafts were approved, and the well know Firm of Jesty & Baker who had a forgery in Castletown, were chosen as the preferred builders.

   Having already built many Government buildings on the Island already; The 3 Provost buildings in Castle road (Now Outlooks and a Youth Hostel) The steam Laundry in Castletown, and Many buildings in and around the Dockyard and Merchants Railway. You would have thought their repertoire would only have you believe that they only build with red brick...but Jesty & Baker also built the old Police station in Portland Stone.

   Brackenbury School lasted right up until it was closed in the early 90's, as it was deemed too old and tired to house the new generations of Munchkin children. So, for them, a new building in Three Yards Close would satisfy their absorbing brains.

   Brackenbury did have a brief respite when a local nursery used the premises, but unfortunately the continuing decline of the building meant, they had to vacate also.

   Now in the ownership of the Church, a new lease of life beckons for the run down building. It is hoped to become a building for the community again. There is a committee to oversee the new plans for it's use, and hopefully 2011 will see the building revitalised once more...For the people of portland....and not "Luxury Flats"!!!!

I was a pupil here in the early 70's, and I have a great fondness for Brackenbury, I hope it will remain, and I wish the committee and the volunteers well for the future...

Thanks for listening! Andy

Portland Ignored...Again and again!

2010-10-23T13:11:00.001+01:00

Portland has become a place that few people would have expected. The age old customs are slowly dying out, as a new breed of modern structures are increasingly being shoved here without the will of the people or without any consideration to the Island's history.

   Would the London City Council allow St Paul's Cathedral to be renovated by taking away all the Portland Stone, and replacing it with magnolia painted sectional concrete?

There is but one obvious answer.

So why...The home of Portland Stone, steeped in just about as much history as London, and perhaps every other City, Town and Village in England, do we have to endure the ugly monstrosities that has befallen the wonderful Isle?

   Comer Homes, the company behind the tragedy that is the so called "Ocean Views" Project (The worst name to use...in fact, there are NO veiws of any Ocean from any window in that complex...Just Lyme Bay, Portland Harbour and the Bay near the town with the sandy beach!)  When the Navy left Portland from 1996, there was not much left to leave as a legacy for the Islanders. Just the emptied out shells of many old buildings and the HMS Osprey site. The only legacy that we allegedly had, was the kind gift from the Ministry of Defence to the people of Portland as a thank you for well over a hundred years that we looked after the Royal Navy and many other Navy's around the world. That GIFT, was subsequently sold from under our noses and now has been built on. If the Officers Field was a gift to Portland, Then who gave the right to sell the land that belongs to each and every one of us here on the Island?

Back to Comer Homes, who said they would "support locals" during the developments to the old HMS Osprey site. We are still waiting for that support! We are still waiting for them to finish the development! As you can see from the photograph!

So, why are these new ghastly buildings being approved by planning authorities? Why are they not being built with the very stone that this Island is famous for? Why is the voice of the people always ignored? As my earlier blog notes....Portland Castle next to a concrete block? Wouldn't happen in London!

I have no Idea, if the Comer Homes development will ever be completed, and if there is any truth behind the Officers Field gift. What I do expect, is that somewhere, there are people who has gained significantly by passing planning applications and brushing aside the will and integrity of the people of Portland.

   Portland Ignored...Again and again!

Thanks for listening! Andy

Old Craggy Face

2010-09-13T19:27:00.002+01:00

I know I have talked about him in many of my Blog posts, and I get the notion that many readers have not a clue of what I am talking about when I mention the Portland Giant.

Well, just to satisfy your every whim, I went out specially to capture this shot as he stared down at me from the Grove rock face. Now you know why I say he is "Mean, Moody and Magnificent".

   Tis unknown wether he was created by old Portland Quarrymen when they were extracting stone from this area, or wether he is a natural formation in the rock, or...tis just a mind trick similar to that of picking out pictures and images in the clouds whilst lying on your back getting your bum wet on a Cloudy Portland afternoon?

   Whatever the reason is behind old Craggy face, I feel we are lucky to have him.

   Cerne Abbas has its giant! So why can we not have ours?
   Actually, we have two! (Places tongue firmly in cheek and looks at own nose). T'other one is much much bigger than old Craggy face. T'other one is made up from the ancient roads and paths of Portland which can only been seen from 1000 feet in the air or by any map of Portland. Again, could this be an ancient creation? Or could it just be an Image, created only in the mind of veiwer? I cannot answer that, but I would like to think twas created deliberately by the ancient folk of Portland with just as much mystery as that of the Cerne Giant and even Stonehenge itself .

I love all the mystery of Portland! Some of it is made-up by old Quarrymen and fishermen of course, but there can be no doubt, that the romatisism of these and other mysterious figures will always have you gasp and gape in awe! Well, they do to me!

   In conclusion then, All I can say is...You either see them, or you don't, but either way...they are looking at YOU!

Thanks for listening, don't have nightmares! Andy

Portland, Not Quite Indelibly Marked

2010-08-22T11:04:00.005+01:00

As I wander the paths and tracks of my beloved home, I occasionally come across some interesting personal curio markings or structures.

Although Graffiti and other unlawful marks can readily been seen around the isle, there are many artistic dabbings of the proverbial paint on the Portland canvas. The photo above proves just that.

This pyramidal structure I found under the West Cliff was very interesting.

From a distance it looks as though it was thrown together, in a rushed way, but up close, you can see that a lot of effort has gone into it. I wonder how long it has been there, and who created it and why?

Other marks can be seen on the Isle, and not to be outdone by the town on the mainland with the sandy beach, Portland also has it's own white limestone hillside marking. In the early eighties Portland found itself the proud owner of a white helicopter. Made of Portland stone, the Seaking-like hill marking can be seen from Underhill. Although the years have dulled the hill, you can still see it.

But my most favourite of man made art on the Isle has to be the Giants head overlooking the East Weares. Keeping a faithful watch over the bay to Purbeck. A symbol of protection over Portlanders and Kimberlins. This is HIS Isle, we are HIS people. Strong.....moody..... and magnificent.

Thanks for listening! Andy

A Vital Link to the Look-Out Quarry

2010-08-08T14:16:00.005+01:00

It is great to see, that work has finally almost been completed of the re-opening of JC Lano's bridge that seperates Inmosthay Quarry and Tout Quarry.

The small tunnel was blocked of a number of years ago, as it was being used for raves and the taking of drugs. But then, it was more of a garage as the Inmosthay side was bricked up.

This re-newed addition will greatly enhance the general area, and will nicely link up the Merchants Railway Walk from Castletown, through Kingbarrow Gulley, across Easton Lane, through Inmosthay Quarries and to Tout Quarry, and to link up with the Southwest Coast Path on Portland that is a part of the whole 630 miles of it from Poole to Minehead.

This Quarry walk is one of my favourites on Portland. Ideal for Dog walkers and young children with some really interesting sights along the way. This time of year, the butterflies are like flurries of snow all around you, and in the Kingbarrow quarry, there are a few nesting birds...so please do not disturb them. The Stone Tunnel that leads from the gully to the Quarry, has been made safe to use by the Dorset conservation team, and is quite a sight.

I recommend you conduct this walk yourself, take your time, and look at the abundant wildlife there. Although the "Pyramidal Orchids" have almost disappeared for the winter, you can still see the lovely "Viper's Bugloss". It is one of the most peaceful walks on the Island.

When you reach Tout Quarry, have a wander around and seek out the carvings and artistic structures...even have a go yourself at the stone carving workshops .

If you would like anymore information about this and other walks, please feel free to leave your contact details and the nature of information required, and I will help if I can.

Thanks for listening! Andy

Portland in dire need of some Council - ing

2010-07-30T16:20:00.006+01:00

Now, as many regular readers, and people who know me will know that I am not a big fan of our Borough Council. Why? Well, because of the fact that very little of our hard earned money that we pay for our council tax actually comes over here on the Isle.

I have said many times, that we do not get more than 12% of the services that the place over on the mainland with the sandy beach gets.

I have told you all how our money gets used to pay for the raking of the sand every morning; the regular appearance of the steam pressure machine that is always chugging away lifting off bits of chewing gum in St Mary's street and St Thomas's street; Paying for the benign fireworks; The illumination of thousands of light bulbs; The painting of the Esplanade shelters. the upkeep of the Harbour; The clearing away of weeds along nearly every path there; the upkeep of the Pavilion; the weekly removal of rubbish from the doorways, both recycled and non recycled; the constant tending to flower beds and baskets; The regular removal of bins scattered all around that place...I could go on, and the list is not exhaustible.

The flip side of this? Portland residents pay the same amount per year as those on the mainland, save for a small precept paid to Portland Town Council. So,What do we get? Bins emptied once a week; a scabby old machine that sweeps the road...I say sweep...it sort of throws rubbish away from it! The manning of the recycling centre, where you can hardly get any paper in the receptacle, and we all have to pay for the Police to sit in cars and generally meander around the mainland town, and our great Fire service.

When a new seat was erected to honor a local ex Mayor, it was not long before graffiti was daubed upon it. When the Council's self titled "Rapid Response Team" were informed, they said they would send someone to inspect it in a few days, before they make a decision weather to clean it or not! I ask you! Rapid Response?

Portland's footpaths are almost in passable due to the overgrowth! I asked the council to come and steam clean Fortuneswell, like they do with the town over there, and I got fobbed off....I asked them to clear up 6 disposable nappy's and garbage right outside my door, left by the bin men when they removed the bin liners from the plastic bins ready to be picked up by the lorry, and having the Gulls rip them up. But they blamed me for leaving that bin liner out too early. Was not even mine!

And finally (For Now) They continually neglect Portland in everything they do as if we were just a benign growth that gets in their way...That is why whenever Portland is mentioned in any news story or report that puts the area in a good light...It is always the mainland town first, and if we are lucky, we get the second mention, muttered or shown with disregard.

These are just a few reasons why I will not have nothing to do with that Mainland town. We are nothing but waste of resources....I say give us our own Authority again, Portland taxes from Portland people for Portland people! As it was in the Seventies! We can't do any worse than it is now!

Thanks for listening! Andy

Henry's Portland pride, as it was...not as it should be!

2010-07-10T14:38:00.013+01:00

It always amazes me at the quality of Portland Stone. A perfect example of it can be seen in Portland Castle.

For over 500 years, the Tudor King, Henry the Eighth's Portland fortress has stood here on the west end of Castletown. A fine example of the quality of stone, and the men who crafted and built it.

Twas built semi circular to reduce any impact from enemy cannon. It has been said that King Henry himself devised this way of building castles. But due to the controversial manner in which it has been alleged that King Henry did NOT write the classical piece "Greensleeves", then perhaps this may be untrue also.

Part of English Heritage, and a wonderful tourist attraction, you too can marvel at the famous Portland Stone. Tis why we Portlanders always rave about it.

You can take the small Ferry "My Girl" from that place on the mainland with the sandy beach, to Portland Castle and back. And there is a medium size car park on the grounds. And it is easily accessible for walkers.

One thing does bother me though...The ugly monstrosities of the newly built block of flats and the RYA office and accommodation block overlooking the castle. These new buildings should have had a stipulation that any exterior of these new building MUST be made of Portland Stone. How they got the go ahead to build them as they are is mind boggling.

But Portland Castle still sits proudly, and ready to protect if required. Dwarfed by huge ugliness that has nothing to do with Portland and it's great history, a scourge on Portland, a plague of modern times..... Malignant growth!..... No More!!!

Thanks for listening! Andy

Footpath or Bridleway? Blimmin Footpath!!!!!

2010-07-05T19:49:00.003+01:00

I am all for live and let live, but a lot of things do get on my nerves.
I know I do not own the Public Footpaths around Portland, but as a regular user of them, I am well within my rights to have a good moan.

I am referring to the Public Footpaths that are being used as Bridleways.

It may be interesting to note, that there are no registered official Bridleways on Portland...However, Horse owners do use them.

I don't mind really, it's just that I get annoyed that Horse riders I meet along my walk, seem to think that they have right of way...When in fact, they have no right to be there in the first place. The resulting Horse mess on the Public Footpath is not acceptable. Riders are allowing their animals to defecate on Public Footpaths...Don't get me wrong...but isn't this against the law?

People are quick to have a go at Dog owners if they see dog mess on paths, and quite rightly, but Horse mess is 150 times worse for it's quantity.

Yes, okay, I will walk to the side of the path to let a Horse go by, sure! But there are paths on Portland that you cannot do that. For example, the Grove Governor's Garden, the path that runs alongside it, is only just about passable for the lone walker, yet I still have to Hop-Skip and Jump across great steaming heaps of Horse doings!

So as a plea to Horse riders and owners who do use the Public Footpaths on Portland... Get on your horse with your Jodhpurs, Boots and whip, but also take a Bucket and spade with you, and if you pass me on the paths of Portland again...please say thank you as you pass me all tucked in to the side letting you pass, civility cost nothing...especially as you are not really supposed to be there.

Thanks for listening! Andy

The Impossible Floating Blocks

2010-06-26T18:27:00.004+01:00

D-Day was looming fast for our boys, and American allies, and Portland was at the centre of it all. Preparing for what would be the biggest Allied invasion ever mounted. I cannot even imagine what it must have been like for thousands and thousands of young men, who's destiny's lie on a beach somewhere in Normandy. Of course, they never knew where they were heading, but most had an idea.

Meanwhile, Giant blocks of Concrete were being towed south. Great big walloping lumps of Cement, shale and steel. These were the Phoenix units, that were the portable Mulberry Harbour walls.

It is still amazing today, that these seemingly plain looking lumps are in fact, a design marvel! Built to float to their positions in the theatre of war, and to be sunk down to create magnificent breakwaters to protect our Allied men and ships. It is also amazing to note; when these units were afloat and being towed across the English Channel...they were crewed! By a commander and a few crewmen, who would operate the giant valves that flooded the many compartments thus sinking them into position.

Portland still has two units, placed in Castletown to help protect the vessels moored on Queens pier from the prevailing South-Westerly winds. You can still see a line of nearly 70 year old Barnacles, high on the units indicating the level these units sat in the water.

After all these years the blocks are still in excellent condition. Due to the amazing ratio mix of the concrete. The actual ingredients for this concrete cannot be found anywhere, and big Maritime company's have sought this so they can build new marine structures that will last just as long and beyond. So much so, that one particular company requested a sample from them.

So, these blocks will remain here, in their final resting place. Never ever to be removed. They are not ugly, they are not a nuisance, they just sit there...still protecting, proud and monumental...not unlike the Cenotaph in London...a reminder to us all of the sacrifice of those brave men, who fought for our way of life.

Thanks for listening! Andy

Shy-Tawks and Co-existance

2010-06-19T16:32:00.008+01:00

Living on an almost Island, almost completely surrounded by the sea. Not only has the benefit of the fresh salty air with very little pollution, but also the benefit of having large amounts of wildlife that are uncommon on the mainland.

Portland is lucky enough to have well over half the country's population of Butterflies. We Also have a large population of Seagulls here, who slowly but surely have ventured inland from the their natural home on and in the cliffs, nooks and crannies. Their art of catching Fish and other marine life have slowly dwindled, as they feast on the remains of household refuge. This is now their way of life as fish catching skills are no longer required...not when there are bin bags outside your house every week.

All around Portland the gulls are nesting on rooftops near to your bins, as they know that every week, at the same time, there is food to be had.

One thing that does puzzle me...Why do we not see Black-back gulls and black headed gulls on our rooftops? Do these Gulls turn their noses at our poor offerings in our bin bags?

One thing is for sure! We have to turn the tide for these scavengers. The only sure way is to buy a black plastic bin, and not to leave bin liners in the street. I get really annoyed at the endless garbage strewn in the streets of Portland, our council have refused to clear up the resulting debris. Well, who would want to clear up rotten disposable nappies and potato peelings! I notice some residents think they are helping by placing a thin linen sheet or blanket atop their bin liners, but surely they realise that this does not work! You know who you are!

I feel for the gulls really. They will lose their skills of fishing, and when Plastic bins will become law, and there are no bin liners allowed in the street, then the poor Seagull generation will have re-develop the natural instinct of fishing.

Yes, they Dump on our Car, Greenhouse, washing, windows and Garden furniture. Yes, they do leave garbage in the street. Yes they do wake us up at 0515 in the morning. But...Have you actually spent time looking at them? For the amount of rubbish they eat, they are without doubt...Beautiful creatures. Their feathers are pristine white when they are fully grown, and they are very protective of their offspring. They are only doing what is natural to all of us...trying to survive.

Watching a Gull soaring above me as I sit on Chesil Beach, flying with what seems like effortless gracefulness, warms my heart for she is in her natural environment, tis where she should be, tis where she belongs. Buying a plastic bin, will help her find her way home.

Thanks for listening! Andy

Isle Wander...Until Me Feet Bleed

2010-06-13T09:31:00.006+01:00

Hmmm, perhaps a strange title for a blog? Hay ho. Tis true though! Many tourism leaflets, pamphlets, snippets and magazines...(When they have a spare half page to actually fit "Portland" in among the countless pages of that place over on the mainland with the sandy beach.) Reports that "the best way of seeing Portland is by Foot"...Well, they got something right at last. I agree! There are so many interesting places just waiting to be explored.

The East Weare railway track is always a favourite of mine, and I try to picture what it must have been like travelling to Easton by train along this wonderful route. I would liken it to travelling through Dawlish...but with better veiws. Tis nice and flat along here. You can hear the Birds and the Sea, gently lapping at the shore! I look up at the overhanging cliffs, and say hello to the Giant peering out to Purbeck. Maybe saying, in his imagined Deep Portland tones, "Yer Stone b'aint like ours o'er ere neighbour! look at Sandsfoot Castle, and compare it to Enry's o'er ere...built within a couple o years...and who's still standin?" But that sentiment is my own, I just imagine him saying it.

The cliffs are quite overwhelming to me. further towards the Bill, several climbers are tackling the great cliff face. I watch them for a while with my walking stick tucked under my chin.

I continue toward Church Ope. and here I take a breather and couple of gulps of water. From this point, you can walk in any direction along the footpaths, To the Bill? To Weston? To Easton? To the Grove? No...Not yet! You are only a few yards away from Portland Museum. Tis Always well worth a look. The team there are all Volunteers, and such wonderful people. Like myself...they are always happy to talk about the Isle. There are lots of interesting things there, and you know when there are any Kids in...the sound of the Horn from the up-stairs shipping exhibit will tell you that.

This is just a snippet of my wanderings around the Isle, I do sometimes get blisters...but I do not care...The scenery and the aura of my wonderful home will take the pain away. The best way to see Portland is by Foot? Damn right!

Thanks for listening! Andy

The Writing's On The Wall...

2010-05-31T17:42:00.008+01:00

Portland is renown for its insular way of life. This dates back thousands of years to the first Jute settlers. Even today, there are many of us, who would quite happily not have to venture further than ferry bridge. Outsiders see us as a different world, and the majority of Wykeites,and those from that place on the mainland with the sandy beach, look upon us as weird and will also mention the "

Inbred

" notion at the drop of a hat.
But Portland still has it's champions! I like to consider myself a Champion of Portland. I always put Portland first in everything I say or do. There are many others who do the same, if not more, for Portland.

Some young nippers of our Isle are continuing the Portland pride, even though I doubt many of todays nippers were actually born on the Isle. So why do many of them deface Portland with their unwanted Graffiti? I often see "Underhill Mob" and "Portland Kru" adorning what were once clean and respectable areas here.

If the nippers who spray these ugly decorations feel so much about being a part the "Underhill Mob" or "Portland Kru" and obviously feel proud to be associated with them, then why do they deface their Isle which they belong?

Some graffiti is worthy of great accolades, and I have seen some really colourful art, but there is such a stigma attached to it. No matter how artistic it is, people will almost always associate the area with being full of Scum and riddled with gangland violence.

So, my message to these Graffiti participants? I like artistic graffiti, but there is a time and a place for it. You should be proud to be part of a group or gang, as long as your intentions and their intentions are just. If you want to advertise your gang...Great, but do it on Facebook, Twitter or any other available means. Just don't ruin a place a great many people love...Portland.

Thanks for listening! Andy

I got the Music in Me! Sort of...

2010-05-26T18:51:00.004+01:00

In my Action Man bedroom at Mum and Dads house in Tillycoombe in the 1980's. There, behind my bedroom door, was a magical brown noise-making machine. It was an Organ. When I switched it on, it actually sounded like a Harrier Jump Jet taking off.

Almost immediately after the switch was activated, electricity surged its way through the internal wiring to the fan. Slowly, the fan would rotate and magical air would be pumped to the reeds that issued tones when the keys of my organ would be pressed. I was not very good at playing it and I never took any lessons. I just played what sounded right to me.

I could pick out a tune or melody and then practice it until I could do it without mistake. One of my favourite pieces was Enola Gay by the Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark.

My Dad is also quite musical and as I grew up, he introduced me to Buddy Holly, The Everly Brothers, and Roy Orbison to name just a few. He sat me down some evenings and let me listen to these artists whilst telling me stories of them. How Buddy died in a plane crash, how Roy’s kids had died in a fire in their family home. I was spell bound.

Dad could also play the guitar. I remember when Terry “Woggler” Smith used to come down in the 70’s, and Jam with him. Dad had a super amplifier. He would always place it on the Kitchen table and he sat with his guitar right in front of it. It was a red box about 2 feet high. It had a black material front and silver edging. When He plugged his guitar into it, the Valves in the back would glow and pop, as if he had a session drummer playing with him for renditions of Apache by the Shadows, well, by my Dad!

He would let me play with his guitar briefly, whilst he went for a wee or something. I would try and pick out the tune to James Bond, but failing miserably. Dad could do it remarkably well.

At school, I had approximately 1 single Music lesson for the whole 5 years I was at that school. Whilst in this once in a lifetime music class, we all sat waiting for the teacher to arrive. I happened to mention that I had an organ at home and the whole class insisted I play something on the Piano. As I knew of my poor playing, I refused at first, but soon was convinced. I sat down to hushed and expectant class. I lifted the lid, stretched my fingers, and played Enola Gay. It certainly was not very good, and when I finished, half expecting a revolting audience...They applauded! I was totally stunned at this reaction. The amassed classmates demanded I should play another, so I played a song by the pop group The Piranha’s. Again, not very good, but my audience were captivated.

It was not very long before word got out, that Andy Straw could play the Piano. Thing is...I couldn’t. As I said, I just played what sounded right. I had a small piece stardom at this time. I became a sort of Idol, if that is the correct word to use for such an inept player of the keyboard.

Kids would stop and say hello to me for no reason at all. Kids that didn’t even like me wanted to chat and be friendly. I was quite uneasy. Fortunately this was to wear off in time, and I was soon to be back to my usual circle of friends.

Taken from my book "My life, the Universe and Kuiama"

Photo; Me recording the 3 songs I wrote for our local Pantomime in a local studio

Thanks for listening! Andy

A new era for Portland's children

2010-05-22T18:30:00.011+01:00

Portland's Chesil Cove School federation have almost booked their place into a brand new School complex to be built near the old Marpol site off Castle Road. Final consultations and planning approval will see the building complete in 2013.

The school will cater for 316 pupils and 26 nursery age children and will cost around 8 million pounds. I asked the design team, if they were expecting the funding to be pulled with the new government, but the funding has already been allocated to this project, and it is not directly funded by central government. This project, subject to final planning, WILL go ahead.

The retained section of playing field that the current builders of the Officer's Field estate leave (Zero C) will become part of the School's facilities. However, it will be maintained by the council and will be classed as a Public Field. How this will be accheived? I do not know. The way I see it...The SWRDA took over the Officer's field that was gifted to the people of Portland by the Navy. Zero C are building the most hidious of buildings upon it against the will of the People of Portland. Zero C stated as part of their plans that a Football pitch would be retained to appeas Portlanders, and now? The Chesil Cove Federation will use it.

At what stage does this field become a Public Field? It is fine if the School wants to use the field when no members of the public are using it, but what happens if the public are using the field and all of a sudden, 45 School children rush on, and take over? The public patrons would then have to leave! Then how could it be a public field. Could the two work together?

What will become of the current schools? One of them almost New? Maybe the same fate as most buildings like this...go to the highest bidder, and then conversion to Luxury Flats. Just what Portland needs! More Housing! And Sarcasm is the lowest form of wit.

I think the new school WILL benefit our young nippers, but having so much change in so little time is a bit of a shock to the system. But there is one thing that will always stay the same...The complete unwillingness for big building companies to listen to the will of the people. Money talks...they listen to that!

Thanks for listening! Andy

I stood before St Peter's

2010-05-19T18:35:00.008+01:00

Portland has many wonderful Portland Stone buildings. Not only are they built with one of the best building minerals in the world, but also, they are built by the best Masons and craftsmen in the world. However, in 1872 work commenced on the creation of one of my favourite Portland buildings. St Peter's Church at the Grove.

Tis' said, that Skilled convicts built this church. However romantic this seems, there is very little evidence to support this. But standing here, in front of this disused church, you can clearly see the great effort involved. Tis' definately a testament to either the Convicts or the Craftsmen of Portland. I would like to think that the convicts created this building, but my heart tells me it was crafted by Portlanders.

T'was built for a sum of 8000 pounds, and was the most expensive church on the island in 1872. Sadly, tis' no longer used, I wonder what is to become of it? One thing is for sure...it will stand for many hundreds more years.

Thanks for listening! Andy

The 3 Bridges, and the 3 caretakers

2010-05-14T18:36:00.002+01:00

Three Portland Stone bridges sit majestically above each other spanning a cutting dug many years ago to assist the transportation of our wondrous Portland Stone. The years have taken it's toll of the old Track system by a mass of overgrowth created by nature.

But, you may have noticed that the undergrowth is gradually disappearing, slowly yet surely, the old cobbled trackway is being uncovered. How is this happening? Well, unknown to many, there is a small group of people who volunteer to recover this amazing area and make it part of the Southwest Coast Path. Every Friday between 0830 and 1100, two amazing men, armed with tools, work on this very site. As the title to this blog would dictate...What about the 3rd Caretaker? Well, dear reader, tis me. However, I can only help out when I am on holiday from work. The main brunt of the task is carried out by Alan and Mike, who tirelessly cut away, scrape, collect and uncover what was once a fantastic area.

If you are ever around the top of the top bridge early on Friday mornings, carefully lean over the south bridge wall, and say hello to the gang and appreciate the work they do, they would love to see you.

Thanks for listening! Andy

A Dream. TS Penn. My Dad, and Reality

2010-05-06T18:26:00.006+01:00

Me and the Flag Officer of Sea Training 1982

The year? 1982. I joined the Portland Sea Cadets of TS Penn. Our HQ was on the top floor of the old steam laundry in Castletown. I loved my time there, as I always had a thing about the sea.
My dad was working on a trials vessel of the Royal Maritime Auxiliary Service, and I had always wanted to work on Tugs. Sea Cadets were a step in the right direction. I learnt quite a lot from my time there. Yes, I had to march around a lot, and yes, I had to salute a lot and call people sir...This I hated then as I do now! The only person I would ever call "Sir" is my Dad! Respect is something that is earned...not demanded!
The cadets of TS Penn were going on a trip, we were heading to Gibraltar for two weeks. I had great fun there, but little did I know, I would be spending a great deal of time there later in life.

Jump forward 4 years to 1986. I went to sea as a seaman in the Royal Fleet Auxiliary Service, I did that for 14 years. Everytime we would enter port, I used to lean over the guardrail to watch our assisting Tugs secure their tows to help us alongside...I used to envy the crews of these small, yet powerful tugs..."I would love a job like that" I would sigh!

Jump forward again to 2001...My dreams and wishes came true. I always dreamed of being a crewman on a Tug from a really early age, but I would never have guessed I would be the Skipper, and I am bloody good at it! even if I do say so myself!
My dad said something to me many years ago which rings true today...."Son? Tuggies are born...not made"! I guess I was born to be a tuggie...but I owe my Dad, and TS Penn, for putting me on the correct path which led me to my dream Job!

Thanks for listening! Andy

Goodies...On the Rock!

2010-04-28T17:44:00.006+01:00

For the majority of the 1970's and the beginning of the 1980's, 3 ex members of the Cambridge Footlights dominated our TV screens and Record players. They delighted audiences young and old with their slapstick humour. Some said that they were "flesh and blood cartoons!" So why have I decided to write about them on a blog site that is predominantly about Portland? Well, the Goodies filmed many of their episodes in and around Portland.
One of the most recognised Goodies Episode, is "The Goodies and The Beanstalk" which was a feature length episode, that was produced with the sole intention of winning the Montreal Film Festival. The BBC gave them a hefty budget, and off they went...Portland bound!
Portland's quarries were the ideal location to be the Giants kingdom in this and many other episodes. Giant cranes were used from Portland Plant Hire Ltd, to help with the effects. In this episode, a large wooden prop in the shape of a Castle can be seen on top of a hill. This was the Giant's Castle. In the episode, Tim, Bill and Graeme are drawn towards it by an eerie sound.
At the end of that day's shoot. the film crew left to settle down for the night in local hotels. But unknown to them, Portland folk...never ones to miss an opportunity, jumped on the chance of having some good bits of timber to make a boat with. The film crew arrived next day to find the Castle gone.
When the Goodies were in town, many locals watched the filming, and school children rushed to the scene as soon as the bell went. I know this, as I was one of them! We would get a Chinese whisper from an unknown source, and off we would trot. I watched the Goodies film in Weston, outside the hairdressers shop and the Royal Exchange. I was also very lucky! Mr Tim Brooke-Taylor let me wear his Union flag waistcoat. I have been a big fan of the Goodies all these years, and I love watching episodes on my DVDs and spotting scenes of Portland.
I did the Funky-Gibbon on a regular basis, I spent most of my day's studying the noble art of "Ecky Thump" and I wanted to be a Goody! I was for about 2 minutes when Tim let me wear his waistcoat. But watching them on the BBC and later ITV was good enough for me. They helped mould my character as a young nipper, and for that...I am eternally grateful. Thanks Tim, Bill and Graeme... you super chaps 3!

Thanks for listening! Andy