Weather-related drownings off coast

There have been many weather-related drownings off the south-west coast since what’s regarded as the worst in 1847 claimed the lives of 92 of the 110 passengers and crew onboard the Stephen Whitney.

The ship ploughed into rocks at West Calf Island, Roaring Water Bay during thick fog.

The tragedy led to the erection of the first Fastnet lighthouse, which became operational in 1885.