The Rev'd Philip Ringer has his say on what's happening at West Bay

The award ceremony at Exeter Cathedral for the South West Tourism Excellence Awards last Thursday was a really splendid evening for West Bay.

Before an audience of over 400 people, John and Sarah West received the silver award on behalf of the West Bay Discovery Centre. They were among the four finalists. However, the awards cover seven counties in the region and there were over 773 entrants in the various categories. John and Sarah reported that they were both delighted and amazed at being chosen for this award. It reflects the tremendous amount of enthusiasm shown for the centre by the locals who volunteer and support it, as well as the thousands of people who have visited since it opened last year.

The discovery centre will be open this coming weekend and the following week for the February half term holidays, but will not open on Monday, February 17.

On Friday night a packed audience listened to a lively presentation and talk by Trevor Ware about smuggling and the Dorset connection. Piracy has been taking place for quite a while, so please make a note in your diary for this year's Pirates' Day on Sunday, May 24. This will be the first of this year's events organised by the West Bay Days team.

I see from last week's edition of this newspaper that the town council are to launch a competition to name the 'capstan' outside the George P.H. You have probably guessed my suggested name. A capstan is reflected in the spokes of a wheel which is how the parking bays for the visiting motor cycles has been marked out. Please ensure you cast a vote for your suggestion.

Storm Ciara left a trail of destruction and debris in many places and the Bay was no exception. People took to social media to watch the devastation caused, while some risked life and limb to see the extent of the exceptionally high tides and ferocious seas. The West Bay web cam was out of action for several hours because of the weather conditions, but was restored to active service by mid afternoon. The newly placed benches on the Esplanade were certainly tested by the rough weather.

Organised before the storm, but clearly going to be needed as a result of it, a beach clean has been organised for Sunday, February 16. Meet at the Watch House café at 10am. All are welcome. You never know you might even unearth some treasure.