Solway Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

A Shared Responsibility for a Very Special Place

Auld Michael

Michael was a Cistercian Monk who lived in the area for over 50 years, he was thought of locally as a wise-man and spent much of his latter years living as a hermit in Wolsty Castle near Beckfoot. He travelled extensively, visiting both Italy and France. The 'Auld' refers to his age, in mediaeval times the average age for a man was around 35-40 years it was thought that Michael lived into his sixties making him quite a celebrity.

Oyk the Oystercatcher

Oyk was born on the Solway near Newton Arlosh and became part of the Moricambe Bay oystercatcher flock. His sense of humour and his inquisitive mind makes him very intelligent by oystercatcher standards.

His orange beak and legs and his smart black and white suit but especially his yellow wellies make him stand out within the flock. He loves children and really enjoys telling them stories, some are true but others are a bit naughty.

A spokesperson for the Discovery Centre said:

We brought these two great characters together to provide the chemistry for a truly remarkable tour of the Solway through space and time. They appeal to all age groups and their constant bickering and disagreements bring the exhibition to life. Oyk hasn't got the Hollywood image of say 'Donald Duck' but what he lacks in charisma he certainly makes up for by inventing stories