was an important landmark "in the natural and social fabric of Staithes's past".

Superstitions in Staithes had a part in everyday life. One of the best-known village superstitions is the aversion to say the word "pig". It is believed saying this word will bring bad luck. Fishermen who heard this word would refuse to go to sea in case they drowned. Instead, locals will call the animals "grecians", "grunters", "oinkers" or "four-legged creatures" or spell out the