Last Bell Rock lighthouse keeper lights up the classroom with tales of the past

The last keeper of the Bell Rock lighthouse was at Ladyloan Primary School in Arbroath this week to talk to pupils about the famous building’s bicentenary.

John Boath addressed children from all classes with tales from his time at the lighthouse and brought in pictures and memorabilia to show the youngsters.

The school uses the Bell Rock on its badge and is getting heavily involved in the Year of the Light celebrations to honour the first lighting on February 1, 1811.

Headteacher Victoria Smith said, “It was a great experience for the children and they got to hear all about the time he spent there.

“He was able to share a series of anecdotes about life on the Bell Rock and they were all very interested to see the memorabilia he had brought in.”