to electricity In 1952 the lighthouse was again converted to run on electric power (this time using incandescent lamps, powered by mains electricity). The 4,500W bulbs used for the main light were the largest in the Trinity House service. Should the electricity supply fail, a diesel generator would be engaged (and in the event that it too were to fail, an additional emergency battery lamp would be engaged). The mechanism which turned the lenses continued to be driven by clockwork at this time, until 1983 when it was replaced by a pair of electric motors. The fog signal was upgraded in 1953: a Stone Chance diaphone signal was installed and a pair of exponential horns replaced the Rayleigh Trumpets on top of the foghorn building. At the same time the engine room was provided with two new Reavell compressor sets, one driven by an electric motor, the other by a diesel engine. The diaphone produced a five-second blast every 30 seconds in poor weather, and remained in use up until 1988, when the lighthouse was decommissioned. Decommissioning Souter Lighthouse was decommissioned by Trinity House in 1988, but continued to serve as a radio navigation beacon up until 1999 when it was finally closed. Present day As Souter was never automated, it remains much in its original operational state except for updates during its lifespan to its lantern and electrical apparatus. Today the decommissioned Souter lighthouse is owned by the National Trust and open to the public; the engine room, light tower and keeper's living quarters are all on view. There is also an outdoor play area, Trusty Club and indoor activities to accommodate young visitors. Two of the former lighthouse keepers' cottages are used as National Trust holiday cottages. The lamps, lenses and foghorn remain in working order and are still activated from time to time 'on special occasions'. The lighthouse is said to be haunted, and has even featured on British TV's Most Haunted ghost-hunting programme. Gallery See also List of lighthouses in England Grade II* listed buildings in Tyne and Wear References External links Souter Lighthouse information at the National Trust National Trust Collections - Highlights from Souter Lighthouse, Tyne & Wear (Accredited Museum) Map of Souter Lighthouse Lighthouses completed in 1871 Buildings and structures in South Shields Lighthouses in Tyne and Wear National Trust properties in Tyne and Wear Tourist attractions in Tyne and Wear Museums in