A TOP Nessie expert says he no longer believes the monster exists
Adrian Shine, 76, says “sightings” are people’s perceptions of common events such as a boat’s wake.
But despite his doubts he’d be “delighted” to be wrong and finally see the mystical sea serpent.
Adrian, who is semi-retired from the Loch Ness Project after 52 years, believes that the deep Caledonian Canal running through Loch Ness causes the illusion.
He explained: “The sightings are caused by ship wakes. Here they develop this multi-humped form and that’s what people often see.
“There are other phenomena too — Nessie’s long-necked form is birds on a calm surface.”
Adrian also admits the loch is too cold and lacking in fish.
He said his scepticism stemmed from seeing a “hump” that was a rock.
It grew after a visit by a conjurer who studied classic art.
Adrian said: “They were all fakes and he showed us the explanations.”
Despite this, Adrian led a 1987 loch sweep and 1994 drill.
He said: “I’ve had enormous fun — and any new proof would be wonderful.”
