With the baulks in and boats out my attentions are now turning more to care and maintenance activities that will both keep our harbour safe for Mousehole residents and the many anticipated visitors over the coming weeks.

Regular health and safety inspections identified a number of issues with our railings on the quays and around the harbour which required either replacement or repair. These are now complete and we are well prepared to withstand whatever nature, traffic or people throw at us over the coming months. Time now too to test our chains, shackles and safety equipment to ensure their fitness for purpose when in use in and around the harbour.

The observant amongst us will have noticed that the toilets on the South quay are now closed for the winter (with the exception of the period during which the Christmas lights are on). During that time it is hoped that we can carry out some improvement works to the toilet block making our facilities even better for next year. Time too for refurbishment of our many benches situated on and around the harbour with a new coat of varnish needed for most to prolong their lives and serve the resting legs for another year.

Away from boats, baulks and benches, as a Harbour Authority we have agreed to better formalise the grant of stowage facilities that we offer to kayak owners. It is currently difficult to link kayaks with owners and keep track of bonafide stored kayaks. For that reason we will be requesting that owners of ALL kayaks currently still within the harbour remove them by 31st December 2024. Following that, anyone wishing to keep a kayak within the harbour will need to apply for permission and following receipt of ownership details, contact details and the appropriate fee will be granted permission for stowage, with renewal being invited annually thereafter.

In another first for the Authority, we are pleased to advise that we have teamed up with an organisation called Waterhaul , a company that recycles old fishing equipment. Able to recycle old nets, ropes and hard plastics such as fish floats and fish boxes, they will be recycling any such items we collect for them, ensuring that our authority plays an active part in maintaining and improving the marine environment.

Finally, please don’t hesitate to contact your Harbour Master should you see anything of concern around the harbour, your help in keeping our harbour safe being much appreciated.