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And another thing

Is the Loch Ness Monster heading for real celebrity?

Paul Johnson

Wednesday, 25th July 2007

At this time of year my thoughts often dwell on the Loch Ness Monster. Let me recapitulate what we know about this beast.

At this time of year my thoughts often dwell on the Loch Ness Monster. Let me recapitulate what we know about this beast. It was first spotted on 22 July 1932. It was described as crossing the main road running north of Loch Ness and being about six feet long. Later it was seen in the water, with its head above the surface. It had a long neck, a snake-like head and flippers, and was at least 20 feet long. A famous but indistinct photo was taken corresponding to this description. The monster has never again been seen on land but is often sighted, always in midsummer, holding its prehistoric head up and swimming strongly. Scotch stringers for London newspapers regularly visit the Loch at this time, hoping for a silly season story. They put up at the Drumnadrochit Hotel, whose bar is decorated with photos purporting to be of the creature.

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