A Witness In Hampshire.

This isn't a post about my wanderings around Hampshire, however, in my working life i get to see and witness a few things that happen. Occasionally, they happen in Hampshire, and on this day in Portsmouth. As a television news cameraman, i happened to be at the Naval base in Portsmouth. The following is a post from my other blog, http://mediaattentionltd.blogspot.com

It's not every day that you get to witness another small part of your country's military decline. But that is what i did yesterday as i filmed the homecoming of HMS Ark Royal, the only ship capable of carrying and launching fixed wing aircraft from the UK's once mighty fleet. In a short sighted and swift decision the UK Government decided to scrap our only aircraft carrier due to our nations straightened circumstances. Basically we can no longer afford it.

As the ship slipped quietly into Portsmouth Naval Base for the last time, it seemed fitting that she was shrouded in fog and sea mist, lest the rest of the world see what, in my opinion, is a very short sighted error, which in today's world of small wars, localised conflict and occasional disasters, may come to haunt our current governments decision.

As i filmed for Channel 4 News and the ITV Networks, i couldn't help feel a sense of sorrow for those aboard such a great warship that could have served for many more years to come. I myself served aboard HMS Ark Royal during my time in the Army and have great memories and photo's of my time serving alongside the Royal Navy. So the day had a double meaning for me personally.

Me aboard HMS Ark Royal. 1991. (Rear row, centre)

I know, good looking, rugged chap wasn't i ...? Those were the days though, single and travelling the world, meeting interesting new people and places... and nicking their country. Ah, back when the British had an empire and Britannia ruled the waves.

But those days are long gone, along with my hairline, and sleek muscled, toned body. Still, at least our government hasn't decommissioned me.... Yet.


So here is the film that Channel 4 fashioned from my days labour. A fine effort, even if i do say so myself, but i can't help thinking that i may have been a witness to just a little less of Great Britain than when i woke up that morning.

Rule Britannia... and God save the Queen in full chorus.






http://www.media-attention.co.uk

Farlington Marshes, Hampshire.

Farlington Marshes in Hampshire has to be one of my favourite places in Hampshire. It has pretty much everything going for it, including wildlife, countryside and coast. The marshes are owned by the Hampshire and Isle Of Wight wildlife trust, covering around 300 plus acres of the northern reaches of Langstone Harbour, near Portsmouth.

Farlington Marshes reed beds.

Personally, i enjoy coming here at any time of the year as there is always something different to see through the seasons. The landscapes are constantly changing, with the tides revealing mudflats and reed beds at low tides. Low tide is the best time to visit as i think it gives you more to see in terms of wildlife that come to feed on the mud dwelling creatures among the eelgrass and algae.

During the Autumn months the marshes are visited by large numbers of Brent Geese, overwintering on the marshes where food and shelter is easily found. To see the Brent Geese arrive or take off at once is quite a sight, and i enjoy seeing them on a yearly basis. The reserve is also important for other species of birds at other times of the year, such as Mallard, Gadwall, Pintail and Widgeon.

Mud Flats. Easy food for passing wildlife.

Easy walking paths surround the reserve.

 There is a good solid and level walking path that surrounds and criss crosses the reserve, and even a small area for car parking that is easily accessible from the nearby M27. the walk, at a guess, is around one and a half to two miles long, and is a blast of fresh sea air when you feel the need to get away from it all. Not only is it a place to see the wildlife, but a great place for plant and insect life during the Spring and Summer months, that is just as important to the local ecology. I enjoy Farlington Marshes, and will continue to do so. i very much recommend it.

Paul Martin. http://www.media-attention.co.uk 

Watching The RNLI Coming Home.

Portsmouth RNLI station is situated at the entrance to Langstone Harbour, Portsmouth, Hampshire. A busy little station covering the South Coast and the Solent, possibly one of the busiest sailing and shipping areas in the UK.

RNLI Lifeboat returns safely.

Whilst out for a walk along the beach today, I had the pleasure to see the lifeboat returning safely from another call out.

Coming back home ...

Next weekend sees an open day with displays from the team and other RNLI volunteers. The open days make for a great day out by the coast and are very well attended. So come along and lend your support.

Paul Martin
http://www.media-attention.co.uk

Dinosaurs On Southsea Common.

I have no idea why or who is behind this exhibit on Southsea Common, however, whilst driving along the coast road it was hard to miss ....







Apparently, it is made to scale, and is a true representation of a dinosaur that roamed the earth millions of years ago. I have no idea how long it will be there, so get yourself along to Southsea Common, Hampshire. You can't miss it.

Paul Martin
http://www.media-attention.co.uk

Harbourside In Lymington.

I had the great pleasure of visiting the New Forest town of Lymington today, whilst working. Travelling Hampshire and getting paid at the same time is always a bonus.

Specifically, I was at the quayside at Lymington harbour. Chock full of private yachts, small pleasure boats and array of various other waterborne craft, it was a pleasure to sit and just watch the watery world go by, and check my jealousy ratings looking at the larger boats.






At this time of year the yachting world is gearing up for Cowes week on the Isle Of Wight, so every berth is taken. However, I spent a very pleasant half an hour or so just sitting on the quayside with a cup of frothy latte from a nearby coffee house watching the boats go by, and soaking up a little sun into the bargain. So if you have a spare half hour, do drop by and just sit a while.

Paul Martin
http://www.media-attention.co.uk