14th September from the West Cliff Green, Bournemouth

A dismal, drizzly start to the day but suddenly there is a shower of swallows and martins plunging over the cliff and then careering backwards and forwards, dodging this way and that hawking for insects. Obviously just stopped over on their way south and enjoying the last chance to stoke up before their long journey ahead. Their sudden arrival heralds a new start to the day. The clouds break and the afternoon is as sunny and hot as any late summer day. The sea hugs the beach as if tailored to it. Neat little pleats of waves complete the effect.

Neat little pleated waves

As evening approaches the sun disappears behind the pines leaving a great orange splash across the western sky. Walkers on the cliff top path are bathed in a bright pink light. Young gulls stand expectantly awaiting their supper.

From 14th September 2021

A fine mist across the bay. The usual grey skies but not cold even with a fresh breeze. Moderate waves giving a reassuring thump and swash on the newly raked sand. While the seasons have been a bit of a mixed bag,with some bracken turning autumn brown a couple of weeks ago, over night rain and a warmish spell have kept the majority of the cliff top looking green. Although by now all flowers and grasses are now chocolate brown spikes except for the late evening primroses and odd wild carrot.

From 14th September 2015

The Bay is empty this morning. The sun is beating down off the water. Ships and boats seem to be sheltering. Are we expecting some weather? Only the vehicle carrier Autostar passes on the horizon en route for Santander