This is the moment seagulls dive-bombed for tourists’ ice creams in the pretty seaside town made famous by the ITV show Doc Martin and the group and film Fishermen’s Friends.   

Photographer Tom McAsey, 56, watched on as the brazen birds flocked to Port Isaac in Cornwall on Thursday, June 27. He described the town as having a “seagull epidemic” and says people fumed as their ice creams, pies and pasties were stolen.

Tom said: “We were in a restaurant right by Port Isaac – it’s almost an epidemic here.

The seagulls are renowned for stealing pasties and ice creams.

“I waited to get the timing right for the photos – the seagulls were just hovering. People were just in total shock,” he said.

“The moment they have their food  stolen – they can’t believe it’s actually happening to them.

“The odd person does get angry – but most people laugh it off.

“They’re warned the seagulls do attack. “But then they just go off to get more ice cream.

“Except, they’re more careful and protective the next time.” 

Pretty Port Issac is a fishing village in North Cornwall. It’s home to TV favourite Doc Martin, played by Martin Clunes.  

Shanty singers, Fisherman’s Friends – whose rise to fame also inspired a hit movie and sequel – also hail from Port Isaac.