A photographer who has been taking pictures of visitors at the iconic Land’s End signpost for 28 years is to retire.

Between 1979-84 and 2000-23, Peter Puddiphatt, now 79, has met and photographed people from all walks of life including plenty of famous faces at the landmark.  

The signpost on Britain’s most south-westerly point has become well-known particularly for those undertaking the Land’s End to John O’Groats ultra-marathon, many of which Peter has met.  

In 2013, Peter took a picture of Chris Evans, Brian Cox, Gary Barlow and James May beside the sign before they set off to John O’Groats to raise money for Breast Cancer Research as part of the FAB1 Million campaign.  

Peter was also on picture duty when a host of celebrities crossed the finishing line at Land’s End as part of a Sport Relief cycle ride in 2010 which began at the top of Scotland. Taking part in that charity ride included Fearne Cotton, Miranda Hart, Russell Howard, Patrick Kielty, Davina McCall and David Walliams. 

Land’s End also marked the start point for the Olympic torch relay in 2012, which saw Sir Ben Ainslie pose next to the sign as the first torchbearer before it’s journey across the UK began. 

Recently, Land’s End administration have chosen not to renew their contract with Penzance-based Courtwoods Photographic who had previously been responsible for the sign’s running. 

As of January 2024, the team at Land’s End Landmark will now be operating the signpost experience and confirmed that a signpost will remain in place, despite fears that it could be  permanently removed due to the end of Courtwood’s contract. 

The attraction is due to be redeveloped with a new personalised signpost experience set to open this spring.

A temporary sign has been installed while this work is being completed.