As a photographer, I am merely an enthusiastic opportunist. As a sailor, I am inclined towards small boat pottering- see the page on Fleur. Happily, these two activities come together rather well and this is largely what Watermarks is all about. As people of an island nation, most of us like to look upon the sea, if only through rain spattered glasses some-times. But the photographs are not all about boats and the sea, other topics are here as well: people, places, things and some simply because I like them. And there are tales too- traveller’s tales about faraway places.  I’d like to think you will enjoy them.

 

To travel is to loosen the bonds of routine and grasp the hand of opportunity. It broadens the mind, it can also make your feet ache. But if you travel far enough you will meet yourself coming in the opposite direction and give a little nod and shake hands on a job well done  VH.

Video: Totaranui, if you get my drift…

EXPLORING THE COAST BY DEGREES

A new book by Viv Head, published 2023

Although only just published, it has already received many accolades from purchasers. You can be sure of a fascinating journey around the coast of Britain, quite unlike any other. Told with humour and honesty and illustrated with more than 40 photographs (by the author).

If you would like to buy this book, please email exploring@watermarks.org.uk 

or for more details go to the webpage: Exploring the Coast by Degrees

Cost is £16 plus £3.35 p&p. (UK)

POLICING SOUTH WALES DOCKS– an Illustrated History

My third book, published by Amberley May 2018

 

 

 

 

During the Nineteenth Century, South Wales exploded into industrial activity; previously peaceful valleys were turned on their head. Iron, coal, the railways arrival and great docks all along the coast; at Newport, Cardiff, Penarth, Barry, Port Talbot and Swansea. South Wales became the crucible of the Industrial Revolution. Men from all across the land, and seaman from all over the world arrived eager to be part of it all. The docks became a land of opportunity; peaceful coastal communities were transformed; overcrowding, disease, prostitution, violence and dishonesty were everywhere. Into this mix of blood, sweat and coal dust came the dock police, charged with keeping a lid on rough communities bent on self-intent. Crime and murderous violence were rife; it took a breed of hard men to step in and take control and they remained for more than a hundred years.

Over time the different forces amalgamated to become the British Transport Police. Then in the mid-1980s came privatisation and containerisation; it was perceived that the police had done their job and were no longer needed. So, in 1985, the last dock policeman locked the police station door, got into his car and drove away.

Policing South Wales Docks provides an illustrated insight into some of the darker and lighter moments of the dock coppers’ working lives. You won’t be surprised to know that they weren’t always angels themselves, but they do deserve to be remembered. As an ex dock copper in the 1970s I have fond memories of my time at Cardiff Docks, it was quite an experience!

Available from Amberley Publishing (£14.99 but widely discounted)

SAILING SHIPS OF THE BRISTOL CHANNEL

My second book, published by Amberley in May 2017

A book packed full of great photos and interesting stories. Recounting maritime heritage from right around the globe. Bristol Channel pilot cutters with a world wide reputation, John Cabot setting out from Bristol in his tiny ship, Matthew, to discover America, mutiny and murder on the Cutty Sark, famous Antarctic exploration ships, working boats, racing yachts and training ships. These and many more make it a truly riveting read. Available at £14.99 from Amazon and book shops everywhere.

 

 

‘Sailing Gaffers’ is it the boats or is it the people?

Sailing Gaffers celebrating 50 years of the OGA, the Association of Gaff Rig Sailing. A celebration, full of stories of people, boats and sailing.

The printed version of this book is no longer available, however, a PDF version is downloadable from the OGA website.

You can also read about Nutmeg’s brush with Portsmouth in Welsh Gaffers Log

 

 

Some other things you may find interesting on this site

Photo of the Month

Fleur A delightful little lug sailed ketch

Travelers Tales A selection of short extracts from my travel journals

And take a look at Welsh Gaffers Log for the latest murmurings

And the Albums of course, for a whole crop of interesting images