Old boats and grey days

It's nearly a fortnight since my last post. Last Christmas my father died quite suddenly and sadly my mum passed away last week. It wasn't unexpected, but it has still been very difficult. I haven't really had the time or inclination for a cycle. 

The funeral is over and the most immediate of affairs are tided so I thought I should get back out there with at least a little post.

I took Fly for a good wander around town and then down to the Cromwell Harbour. I'm always interested in what's happening with the boats and there is loads for Fly to sniff and investigate.

Despite being named the Cromwell Harbour, there are records of a wood and stone pier dating back to the 1570's

There were a couple of creel boats coming in. In times past the fishing boats of the east coast were predominantly Herring Drifters, close in design to Bob's lovely old Fife the "Mareen". In those days, there were no diesel engines and they relied on the wind to chase the fish.

It's not so practical to rely on sail power in harbour so there are several pawls to warp boats around. This huge old tree trunk shows it's wear from years of ropes rubbing.

These two palls are supposed to be made from old gun barrels set in concrete but I'm not so sure.

 Someone's up to something. (this caption can be applied to the photo above or below,)

That's what a Scottish east coast fishing town looks like on a December day. I'll try to get back to regular posting soon.