The Frozen Sea at Herne Bay in 1963

From the collection of

Screen Archive South East at the University of Brighton
Screen Archive South East at the University of Brighton collects, preserves, catalogues and provides public access to its collection of films and magic lantern slides. The collection charts the rise of screen culture in the region and the nation and captures many aspects of life, work and creativity in the South East from the late 19th century to the present day. It is available for research, screenings, creative re-use and commercial access.

The Frozen Sea at Herne Bay in 1963


John Clague's dramatic footage shows a rare weather phenomenon during the bitterly cold winter of 1963. Starting with views of the snow covered beach, seabirds look for food as waves come ashore. The sea is calm but now large patches of ice are seen forming on the surface. On subsequent days we see the ice stretching away to the horizon. Even the kilometre long pier is completely enclosed in the ice while the citizens of Herne Bay come to watch and wonder at the amazing spectacle.


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