Largest hunt for Loch Ness Monster in 50 years is underway

The mystery of Nessie has baffled folks for almost a century, and now the largest search for the beastie in 50 years aims to find irrefutable proof of its existence once and for all.

Hundreds of volunteers have descended on the Scottish Highlands in search of the mythical creature.

The Loch Ness Centre at Drumnadrochit has teamed up with a group of researchers from Loch Ness Exploration (LNE) to conduct the biggest surface water study for the creature in over 50 years.

It is thought to be the most in-depth survey since the Loch Ness Investigation Bureau went in search for signs of the monster way back in 1972.

Over the next two days, groups of volunteers and experts will use special equipment that has never been used on the loch before to find Nessie.

Drones will produce thermal imaging of the infamous waters in the hope of identifying any strange anomalies lurking in the deep.

Loch Ness Centre

A hydrophone will also be detect any acoustic signals, picking up any eerie echoes coming from beneath the surface.

You might think that's a lot of effort to put into finding a creature that almost certainly doesn't exist, but the volunteers hope to prove us all wrong.

Each day, Alan McKenna from LNE will brief the searchers at the centre on what they need to be looking out for.

There will also be a debrief in the afternoon, with researchers going through the day’s events.

The Loch Ness Centre is located at the old Drumnadrochit Hotel, where manager Aldie Mackay claimed to have spotted a 'water beast' in Loch Ness almost a century ago.

Speaking ahead of the search, Mr McKenna said they hope to finally find conclusive evidence of Nessie's existence.

“Since starting LNE, it’s always been our goal to record, study and analyse all manner of natural behaviour and phenomena that may be more challenging to explain," he said.

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“It’s our hope to inspire a new generation of Loch Ness enthusiasts and by joining this large-scale surface watch, you’ll have a real opportunity to personally contribute towards this fascinating mystery that has captivated so many people from around the world.”

Paul Nixon, general manager of the Loch Ness Centre, added: “We are guardians of this unique story, and as well as investing in creating an unforgettable experience for visitors, we are committed to helping continue the search and unveil the mysteries that lie underneath the waters of the famous loch.

“The weekend gives an opportunity to search the waters in a way that has never been done before, and we can’t wait to see what we find.”

To find out more information about 'The Search', you can visit its official Facebook page.