Stories behind new columns on Torquay's seafront

THREE NEW columns have emerged on Torquay's seafront, next to the English Riviera Wheel. What are they and what do they mean?

They are "interpretation" pieces, telling the stories of Buffalo Bill, Oscar Wilde, Rudyard Kipling and HH The Princess Louise. According to Torbay Council, which funded the works, the "well-known characters" have, in the past, "all been inspired by the beauty and views around Torbay".

"Those visiting the area will find out more about Buffalo Bill's visit to the Bay in 1904 and how he referred to it as the 'prettiest place I have ever seen in my life'," says a council spokesperson. Elizabeth Barrett-Brownings's connection to the Bay – following a horse riding accident – is also highlighted.

Many of the stories on the columns have been taken from the Torbay Connected website, which allows people to access the Bay's history and also to add their own stories, myths and content.

In addition, a second interpretation piece has been located nearer to Beacon Quay. It tells the story of the Barking Furnace, which was used by fisherman to treat their nets with bark preservative.

"Both pieces reveal our rich heritage to residents and visitors and how many famous people have been inspired by our lovely Bay," said Cllr Dave Butt, Executive Lead for Arts and Culture. "The columns create a focal point, next to the English Riviera Wheel, providing an opportunity for people to gather and talk about our fascinating history, while the Barking Furnace information is appropriately located nearer to the harbour, celebrating the role it played in our fishing heritage."

The funding for both projects came from Torbay Council's capital fund for works to Princess Parade and Victoria Parade. The columns have been designed so they can be moved around the Bay during the next year.