Findhorn shipwrecks over the last 250 years are the focus of an illustrated talk by Tim Negus at the James Milne Institute in Moray

Shipwrecks will be the focus of a illustrated talk in a coastal village on Friday.

Findhorn Village Centre chairman, Tim Negus, is presenting ‘Findhorn Shipwrecks Since 1750’ in the James Milne Institute at 7.30pm on Friday, April 4, reflecting its rich maritime heritage

He explained: “My searches show up a surprising number of possible shipwreck incidents of one sort or another in the vicinity of Findhorn over the past 250 years.

“The talk is aimed at highlighting the maritime heritage of the village and to raise awareness of our heritage centre.

“I have pegged the talk on my efforts to identify the wreck of a trading schooner, still visible at low tide on the Culbin shore just west of Findhorn.”

Tim’s extensive exploration of old newspapers and other historical archives flagged up over 50 possible shipwreck incidents occurring near the village in the 19th and early 20th centuries.

The largest vessel involved was ‘The Himalaya’, a 400 ton, square-rigged, three-masted Barque, driven ashore at Culbin by a northerly gale in August 1885 while bound for Inverness with a cargo of Swedish timber.

“Many of the incidents involved topsail schooners,” said Tim, “the prevalent type of vessel using the busy port of Findhorn for both coastal and foreign trade.

“The earliest record involved a Cullen fishing boat which sank while crossing the Findhorn Bar in October 1755 with the loss of two of the crew.”

The doors for the talk will open at 7pm – admission is free but donations will be appreciated.

The Findhorn Heritage Centre and Icehouse will open on Saturday May 3 at 2pm. Seasonal opening times are weekend days from 2-5pm during May and September, then every afternoon from 2-5pm in June, July and August.

See https://www.findhorn-heritage.co.uk/about.htm for more information.