Falmouth Civic Society is replacing a historic barometer in Falmouth which was stolen around 50 years ago.

On February 6 1868, a barometer designed by Vice Admiral Robert FitzRoy was installed by the RNLI on the old Custom House on Arwenack Street, now The Stable.

FitzRoy was a influential meteorologist who captained the HMS Beagle during Charles Darwin's famous voyage to the Southern Cone.

He coined the phrase 'forecast' and founded what would later become the Met Office in 1854.

Falmouth's barometer was stolen around 50 years ago according to RNLI records, and its granite housing has remained empty ever since.

Falmouth Civic Society has taken up the challenge of finding a suitable antique replacement to be held in a more secure fixing within the refurbished and repositioned housing with a new access and viewing panel designed to prevent theft.

 

The existing granite housing at the old Custom House building

They estimate that the total costs of installing the barometer will come to £4,000, and before it is installed they must secure planning permission for the grade II listed property.

Falmouth Harbour Commissioner has donated £250 towards the project, and the management of The Stable also supports the installation.

Anyone wishing to make a donation can contact the society by emailing falmouthcivicsociety@gmail.com.

Falmouth Civic Society is also inviting people to visit Falmouth Art Gallery for an opportunity to view the archives on Tuesday (November 20).

There is a suggested donation of £3 and tea and cakes will be on offer.

The society welcome new members. For further information on their monthly events visit falmouthcivicsociety.org.uk.