Apologies if this has been asked before, but does anyone know what that tower is off the coast 

Thanks in advance

Apparently it's some sort of antenna. That's what I was told. At first I had hoped it was going to be something to do with the huge amount of gas found off the Northumberland coast a few years ago and create some decent local jobs. 

It's a data collection tower for use by NAREC the offshore wind agency. As well as anemometry it collects other data.

Bayardm nailed it!  

Never noticed it - must start to watch the scenery, regardless of the assistance and necessary guidance the wife gives me,  when driving.  

Thank you all, my curiosity has been fed