Newspaper article based on Dracula – the play

Whitby Gazette – Your local newspaper                                                         

9th August 1897

Striking Storm Drags Ship into Harbour

Yesterday a terrifying storm hit the coast of Whitby as the ship Demeter was entering the harbour. Crowds come to gather at the harbour as the ship was approaching land. The ship went back out to sea many times as it was dragged around by the powerful winds and tides. When the ship finally reached the harbour, it was discovered that all crew on board were dead,including the Captain who was tied to the wheel of the boat with ropes cut through his flesh to the bone and in his right hand was a crucifix held tightly!

The Doctor confirmed that the Captain had been dead for at least two days but there was no evidence of how he died. However his face was chilled and full of fright. A local bar owner said he had never seen such a sight; it was very disturbing.

It was also reported that the ship was carrying crates of soil and a strange sighting of a dog that has disappeared. All in all it was a very strange event and has left the town of Whitby frightened and curious about what has really happened. This is the kind of thing that starts strange rumours and legends and many unanswered questions – like where are the rest of the crew?