BAE Systems engineers have been working on a baffling problem -- how to keep the Irish Sea gales out of the revamped St Annes Square.

Engineers George Seyfang and John Whitehouse offered advice to the lead artist on the resort's public art programme Ondre Nowakowski. Ondre will provide Fylde Borough Council with a number of wind baffle solutions for the seaward end of the main shopping street.

The engineers conducted windflow experiments in the BAE low speed wind tunnel, using a 100th scale model of St Annes Square. Miniature windmills, a smokestream and a hand-held airspeed meter were used to indicate that windflow down the street can be reduced by the introduction of wind baffles.

Ondre is using his creative talents to produce two aesthetically-pleasing wind baffles and his prototypes were incorporated into the research. George Seyfang commented: "Our products are designed for efficiency and high performance, so it's been interesting to work with Ondre."

Ondre said: "Working with BAE Systems has given me access to essential engineering expertise which has made this project possible. IT'S A BREEZE: Ondre Nowakowski tests a prototype wind baffle